Rhine to Rotterdam

We travelled for quite some time before we found the Rhine and then lucky enough to find a great little spot on this beautiful river and stayed there for a couple of days.

Friendly reception area with cafe overlooking river

Our view from the van

The owner of the park at Neumagen Dhron was very friendly and helpful and we both enjoyed her company, particularily Helena who found her daily 16 hours working in the business to be a classic example of what you can do when you're determined to grow a business which she had inherited from her parents. She had also 'inherited' a difficult situation with those who live locally but was determined not to let their bad behaviour to ruin her chances for a successful future.  She was strong and resourceful. Good on her.

She was always smiling

Leaving the Rhine river and with a degree of excitement we headed to the Netherlands. Helenas' father was Dutch and it was of great importance to her to meet and spend time with her Dutch family.

The drive was good, the weather was good and the scenary changed as we got closer to Holland. We chatted away as we got closer and lucky to find a good park near the City Centre.

Unusual but significant for the area

First sighting of a windmall ..... magic

Leaving early in the morning we arrived in Rotterdam and rode our bikes into the centre of the City where we enjoyed the New Haven Museum area on the canal, and discovered 'Helena of Rotterdam - 1875', a boat which had been fully restored. She looked very good for her age and Helena took many photos.

An 'old' girl ................ but a goodie

1875 - she's famous and in good condition for her age .......

The full story of who she is and what made her famous ...........

Little history on Grant too .......

We re-discovered the beauty of the Dutch canal system and the myriad of beautiful boats which line both sides. Most are privately owned and lived with varying lived in looks. We caught a 'Water Taxi' and spent 30 minutes discovering the wonders of this city. 

Our taxi driver was full of enthusiasm

 

Slipway in operation to keep the boats in good condition

 The Dutch are proud of their heritage and have also developed very nice and modern buildings whilst still retaining the old character and qualities of their history.

We stopped and looked at the 'cube' houses which have been designed to save on space - interesting but you'd need to be a lover of small and uncluttered living.

Returning to the campsite, Helena spent time with the horses in the nearby stables and particularily enjoyed the company of an older girl who was about 20 years old. She just loved to have the skin under her maine rubbed, and all areas of her face and neck gently stroked.  Helena constantly talked to her and she went to sleep on her shoulder. It was a magic moment of trust.

'Adrianne' - and isn't she beautiful

The other horses in the stables let it be known that it was their turn but only one of these wonderful animals enjoyed the full treatment. The others weren't forgotten, were spoken to and gently patted if they welcomed human contact. Most did and it was really nice.

The stables were clean and horses well looked after

Althought a little impatient, she was just waiting for her turn

He kept an eye on things ....................

These two stopped when asked & almost posed for this photo