Thursday June 3, 2010 - Amsterdam to Brugge

We awoke to a beautiful sunny warm blue-sky morning. What a wonderful day to explore more of the Netherlands, and make our way to Belgium. We started out at Zaans Schans an area that contains a collection of well preserved windmills and farmhouses. Our first stop was at the wooden shoe maker who showed how he used German and French machinery, and traditional Dutch methods to make wooden shoes. From there we went to the Cheese maker who stepped us through the cheese making process and then gave us samples of many of their types of cheeses, including one that is green – but still very tasty. From there we went to one of the windmills where the operator of the windmill explained the workings of a traditional windmill, and also explained about dyes and paints are made for the coloring of pottery and plates. Then we were on our own to explore the rest of the area. Elsie and Barb wandered into an antique store, but found the only person there was the painter who had a striking resemblance to George Clooney. Elsie was only too pleased to have her picture taken with him.

After spending a bit of time in the gift shop etc, we made our way to Delft where we visited the Delft Factory. Here we had a wonderful tour during which time we learned about the making of the Delft pottery, and how to distinguish the various qualities of the pottery made at this company, and at their sister company. One of the most remarkable works was Rembrandt's The Night Watch done in tiles—a fabulous work of art and manufacturing.

Many left with souvenirs, or gifts to take home.

From here we spent time in the center of Delft – a delightful traditional old town center, where we enjoyed a pick-up lunch and a great shopping experience.

Then we were on Belgium and the delightful town of Brugge. What should have been a couple of hours became greater than 5 hours due to traffic. We complement Manfred on his ability to maneuver the bus, find alternate routes and generally stay calm and collected throughout the ordeal. We complement the group on the fun and camaraderie we shared during the trip. We arrived at 7:45, checked in, got our bags and came down for supper where we all enjoyed a special treat of wine and other beberages compliments of Rostad Tours. We turned in at the early hour of 10 PM, all ready to get a good nights rest for a later start in the morning.