Utrecht, Netherlands

As our trip draws to a close, we choose to spend our last full day in Utrecht.

Similar to Amsterdam but a lot smaller, with fewer bikes and tourists and canals. But still oozing with oodles of charm.

Coffee is first on our list: Black Brew. Great flat white and filter coffee.

We then wander the streets: statues and canals and shops again but lots of variety and too many to visit.

In the centre of town is the Dom Cathedral which has been on this site since 43 AD although they’ve had to rebuild it a number of times. Inside it’s a quiet and contemplative sanctuary that marries a fascinating history with displays of modern art.

Outside again and we continue along the main canal, discovering art where you would least expect it.

And a delicious little lunch of feta & sun-dried tomato quiche and a leg ham roll.

Even this side street with it’s unusual lights is worth a look.

Alas, before we know it our time is done. We will just have to return anon.

Amsterdam | 02

Amsterdam in technicolor: blue skies, green leaves, white clouds, orange leaves, brown bricks, yellow leaves, red boats, no leaves, gold reflections.

After seeing so many wonderful artworks I’m inspired to try my hand at abstract photography.

Amsterdam | 01

Amsterdam in monochrome.

First impressions: adorable buildings, lots of bikes, quiet canals, some more bikes, lots of tourists, even more bikes, and bridges over canals, yummy cheese, sweet stroopwafels, exquisite art works & sculptures, the distinct waft of cannabis, and a few more bikes. What’s not to love?

Oh, did I mention tourists on bikes?

Apenheul, Netherlands

Our second day in Apeldoorn involves a visit to the local monkey park: Apenheul.

These little critters are very cute and may climb on you in search of food.

There are a plethora of monkeys, apes and adorable lemurs in the well curated zoo. The wildlife is often so close and docile that it’s difficult to think of them as wild at all.

The external grounds are extensive and would make a great place to simply stroll, have a picnic, or go for a run.