Our First Three Days of Our Avalon River Cruise

We apologize that we have not been able to post but the internet connection on the ship has been having challenges.  Earl is going to post some pictures on a separate post.

Earl and I are having a terrific time on our Avalon River Cruise. We arrived in Amsterdam a bit later than we thought on Sunday due to a 6 hour delay in Boston.
The ship is beautiful. Food is terrific. Took a fantastic canal cruise in Amsterdam and spent a few hours touring the city and then the rest of the day on ou...r own buying fresh cheeses and Delph pottery.

We saw many beautiful homes, old warehouses, houseboats and all kinds of interesting sites along the canals of Amsterdam.  Flowers everywhere - even in the airport - as you would expect from this city known for its tulips.  Found some terrific cheese in a shop that was making it right there.  We purchased several pounds of smoked gouda to bring back with us and a Delph ceramic teapot- the blue and white dishes that Holland is known for. Having a terrific time with our friends. Earl has been practicing his version of Dutch and German - which is quite unique and entertaining. 

We did scenic cruising Monday afternoon and again this morning (Tuesday). Our room is on the top deck with a full ceiling to floor sliding glass door that opens so we can sit in our room and watch the small towns and cities alike as we pass. Yesterday we came out of the Amstad canal from Amsterdam and into the Rhine where we spent the afternoon passing through small villages and town along the river where flocks of sheep grazed along the dikes, farms and churches lined the shores and even in the outlying areas - people were often seen riding their bikes.  We went up onto the open deck to watch as we passed through 2 locks - we will transit 68 locks on our entire journey.

Today we docked in Cologne Germany and saw the Dam Cathedral and toured the city.  98% of the buildings were destroyed during WWII but have been rebuilt with the same Roman architecture on the facades - though the interiors of the buildings are not as they originally were.  Lots of cafes with pastries, coffees, bratwurst, and beer - just what you would expect here.  Huge amount of shops everywhere.  Purchased some German mustard and enjoyed some German pastries and cappucinos. 

Tomorrow we will be continuing our scenic cruising down the Rhine in the morning through the area famous for the Lor a Lei which is supposed to be the most scenic portion of the Rhine.  The legend is told of the sirens who lured the sailors there with their beauty and caused them to crash.  Then we will stop in Rudenshein Germany where we visit the village and the music instrument museum.  It stays light here until about 11 pm - so we have found ourselves staying up enjoying the "day" without realizing our night has come!!!  Watch for our photos.  We have been taking a lot of photos and hope to post them soon for you.   The fun continues...