So where did you have your best beer ever? Well, our best beer EVER has got to be at the Heineken Experience Amsterdam. Thought it was only 2 pints, to savour the freshly brewed beer at the brewery was totally different from what you can get from the bottle!
Heineken Brewery Amsterdam
Well the whole tour at the Heineken brewery (like all other breweries) include the fermenting/distilling process…
So now, back to the original theme of this post. Why do we think that Heineken Beer AT HEINEKEN EXPERIENCE AMSTERDAM (had to capitalise the location because some Heineken can really taste bland). Well, the reasons are as follows
1. The beer is fresh. Of course! When the beer is fresh off the brewery, it has that crisp light taste that makes you thirst for more!
2. The beer is COLD. This is a very important factor. Not overly cold like frozen, but cold as in it suddenly brings forth the feeling of spring with every mouth.
3. We waited too long. It is also possible that the wait made the beer all the more enjoyable. We spent time looking through all the articles that the museum portion had before we enjoyed the 2 pints.
4. Only 2 pints. So we savoured and enjoyed it thoroughly!
Whichever reason it really is, the beer at Heineken Experience Amsterdam is truly one of the best beers we’ve ever tasted!
1. Variety of stalls
2. Cheap local food
3. Free tasting of local produce
4. Practicing of bargaining skills
5. Finding rare gems
6. Getting lost in the crowd (or maybe not)
As we arrived in Amsterdam on an early Saturday morning, we made the most out of our day by exploring Amsterdam Centraal and planned a leisure stroll towards the south to ensure that we reach Albert Cupymarkt by 2pm. To take in the sights of the city, we ditched the tram and chose to walk from from our hotel on Damrak. It was a fairly easy walk, peppered with shopping breaks. From Damrak, we continued on to Rokin, made a short stop at the flower market along Singel, and resumed our walk down south on Vijzelgracht. We then make a left turn onto Stadhouderskade (almost got distracted by The Heineken Experience!), a right turn onto Van Woustraat, and finally after walking close to 3km, we arrived at Albert Cuypmarkt!
Directional signs pointing to Albert Cuypmarkt AmsterdamArriving at Albert Cuyp Market Amsterdam!
Albert Cuypmarkt aka Albert Cuyp Market is located on Albert Cuypstraat (turn right from Van Woustraat). It stretches about 600m, and has 300 stalls ranging from food to fashion to antiques. The market is open from Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm.
I loved the scarves, boots and jackets that were on sale but I had to stop myself from buying them as I know I wouldn’t have much opportunities to wear them in the hot humid weather of Singapore. We did splurge at the market though! Check out the piping hot, sweet, sticky Stroopwafel.
Stroopwafle stall Albert Cuypmarkt AmsterdamFreshly Made Stroopwafel – Thin waffel slices with honey/sugar syrup in between (1.5 euros)
Although the price of one freshly made Stroopwafle can pay for a packet of ten at Hema, the aroma of the waffle and the taste of the warm caramel is definitely worth it! There were also plenty of cheese stalls (Holland is famous for its cheeses!) as well as odd shaped chocolates (“odd” is an understatement if you know what we are referring to…)
When we reached the end of the street, we decided to treat ourselves to another popular food in Holland – frites! (Check out the bottom of this post!). Tom waited patiently in the long queue and got us a large serving with the special sauce. Well, the sauce didn’t taste any special but the freshly fried fries kept us warm in the cold weather.
With our stomachs full of hot fries, we made our way back by walking on the opposite side of the market. It is easy to lose track of time as we stop at stalls to check out the items for sale. Thank goodness we made it back in time for our movie (yup, after walking that 3km).
Next time when you are heading to Amsterdam, remember to plan some time for Albert Cuypmarkt!
Before we end off, enjoy this clip of Albert Cuypmarkt courtesy of the “brilliant” videography of Tom!
Take a look at this video of Museumplein Amsterdam…
Don’t you think that spring has indeed arrived at the Museumplein in Amsterdam? The sun is shining brightly, people are having leisurely walks around the museumplein, kids are playing at the snow pile (remnants of winter), people enjoying ice skating in the open air rink and the air is filled with a breath of freshness!
Beautiful Museumplein Amsterdam
After the refreshing experience at Albert Cuypmarkt (nearby on the east side of Museumplein along Albert Cuypstraat), we took a short walk to the Museumplein to take some pictures and enjoy a leisurely afternoon.
The reason why the Museumplein is also known as the Museum Square is because of the museums that surround the square. Not just any museums, but WORLD CLASS MUSEUMS. These museums include the Rijkmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk as well as the Concertgebouw (aka Concert Hall).
Rijksmuseum AmsterdamRijksmuseum Amsterdam – Did you notice the ice skating rink?Van Gogh Museum AmsterdamConcertgebouw aka Concert Hall AmsterdamMuseumplein Amsterdam
Looking at the pictures of Museumplein in spring time, really makes us want to revisit the place again! Perhaps a different feel will evolve in the summer months… (sprawling and picnics!)
Following our previous post about shopping in Amsterdam, if you continue to walk along Kalverstraat, you will reach the intersection between Kalverstraat and Singel. Singel is a street along the canal. When you reach this intersection (coming from the direction of Kalverstraat), make a right turn at this place…
Flower Market Amsterdam along Singel
Once you start to walk along Singel, next to the canal, you will notice a whole row of shops selling flowers (mostly tulips), then you would have arrived at the Flower Market of Amsterdam aka Bloemenmarkt Amsterdam!
Flower Market Amsterdam
Here you will be able to find the prettiest (and cheapest) tulips that Holland is renowned for. They come in mostly bunches of 50. Bulbs and seeds are a common sight.
There are of course many other varieties to choose from. If you’re travelling as a couple, why not get one of these fresh flowers for your lady. Kate got hers as well!
Although Dam Square is really just an old town square where common folks used to gather. There are actually a few things you can enjoy as you pass by this busy square…
Dam Square Amsterdam
1. Royal Palace of Amsterdam
Royal Palace Dam Square Amsterdam
Once constructed as a town hall, the Royal Palace is today open to the public for visits and still used by Queen Beatrix to host her functions. Read more about it here.
2. National Monument Amsterdam
National Monument Dam Square Amsterdam
You may have passed this monument several times and might not have noticed it. The National Monument is actually a world war 2 memorial. If you’re lost, this prominent mark makes a great place to meet up again. Read more about this monument here.
3. Shopping at Bijenkorf
Bijenkorf is an upscale shopping mall where you can find many familiar international and luxury brands all housed in one location. There’s even a nespresso outlet where you can enjoy a cuppa!
4. Enjoying the Sights and Sounds of Dam Square
The Sights and Sounds of Dam Square Amsterdam
Why not take it slow and enjoy the sights and sounds of Dam Square. Sometimes, various artistes take centre stage of the square performing magic tricks and juggling acts. Within the square, various artistes standing on platforms either scare you or stand very very still. Yup, they only move when you pay them. Curiosity drives one to drop a coin, just to be sure that the artiste is real.
It is also a common sight to see a long queue waiting to enter Madame Tussauds. The line stretches round the bend where this wax museum is located. For best prices, consider taking the packages (for several other attractions) that they offer!
The sounds of the trams and chatter of people across all nationalities also makes Dam Square a unique central location in Amsterdam.
As you enter Dam Square Amsterdam, there will be one structure that you simply cannot miss, and that is the Royal Palace of Amsterdam aka Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam.
Royal Palace Dam Square Amsterdam
The palace was initial built as the Stadhuis or Town Hall in 1655. In 1806, after the brother of Napoleon Bonaparte, Louis Napoleon came to power, the Town Hall was converted into the palace for his own use.
Today, Queen Beatrix uses the palace for official functions and state visits. We remember that when we were there some years ago, it was still under construction (2005-2009). Today, the palace is once again ready for visits.
Right smack in the middle of Dam Square is a white statue known as the National Monument (Amsterdam). It was built in 1956 to commemorate casualties of World War 2.
National Monument Dam Square Amsterdam
There are symbols representative of what the soldiers fought for during WW2. Suffering, peace,victory and liberty are some of the themes inscribed on this monument.
Today, it is a tourist attraction in the heart of Dam square right opposite the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. If you want to meet your mates somewhere in Amsterdam, this would be an ideal, distinct place to meet up.
The thing we love about shopping in the Netherlands is that the shopping streets never seem to end!
Case in point is the shopping stretch from Nieuwendijk all the way to Kalverstraat. Stretching a distance of 1.5km, shoppers are greeted with shops of all kinds ranging from shoes to clothing to apparels, from international brands to local brands. Simply, you’ll be spoilt for choice when you shop along this stretch.
Besides the wide range of choices available to the shoppers, the thing we love most about the shopping stretch here in Amsterdam is that
1. Shops are lined one after another and opposite each other. For instance, after shopping at H&M, you might be greeted with Bershka just opposite and when you leave Bershka, Zara could be just opposite again! The result – you could be shopping in a zig-zag pattern before you even realise it!
Amsterdam Shopping Streets
2. Typical Dutch construction.. You might not notice it initially, but soon you’ll realise that you’re actually shopping along a street full of Dutch influence. The buildings are lined one after another; some thin while others thinner, using typical dutch construction bricks that are thinner than the standard size bricks you see today. This means that while shopping, you’re actually reveling in history as well!
Typical Dutch Construction – Shopping Streets Amsterdam
The other thing we wanted to bring across to our Singapore readers is that. H&M IS VERY COMMON IN EUROPE!! All the hype started when H&M opened its flagship store in the heart of the Orchard Shopping belt and queues stretched for kilometres long (we’re exaggerating, but you get the idea). However, as you can see in the following video, there are actually 3 H&Ms along the same street, all within visual range!
3 H&Ms along 1 street in Amsterdam!
So we hope you’ll enjoy your next shopping experience in Amsterdam. We all know Kate did!
There are so many things to do and attractions in Rotterdam! This post will give you a low down on all the things to do and attractions right here in Rotterdam! you’ll just be spoilt for choice. Here are just some to choose from…
1. Architecture Gazing
Kubuswoning Rotterdam aka Cube Houses
Home to an array of amazing architectures, Rotterdam will wow your senses with its modern take on architectures. Find out more here.
2. Taking in the Sights
Stunning views of Rotterdam from Euromast
Take in all the sights of Rotterdam at the Euromast. You wont regret it!
3. Shopping!!
More shopping in Rotterdam!
With the Hoogstraat (High Street) so well connected in the city centre, you can literally shop till you drop!
4. Leisurely stroll along the River Maas
Erasmus Bridge at Sunset
If you just want to take things slow, why not enjoy a leisurely stroll along the River Maas. It is afterall the “life line” of the Netherlands, intertwining several cities (including Rotterdam) along its path.
5. Football Fan?
Close up view of Feyenoord Stadium
If you are a football fan, why not visit the Feyenoord Stadion (affectionately known as De Kuip by the locals) and catch a match. It will definitely be an experience you won’t soon forget.
Check out these things to do and attractions in Rotterdam and share your comments with us!
When you think about modern and mind boggling architectures, you think Rotterdam! This is because of the amazing architectures that the city of Rotterdam offers. Here is a glimpse of what you might expect…
1. Cube Houses aka Kubuswoning
Kubuswoning aka Cube Houses in Rotterdam
These rows of cube houses slanted at an angle often draws much attention from tourists and passer-by alike.
2. Erasmus Bridge
Crossing the Erasmus Bridge
Nicknamed the “Swan” by locals, this iconic and modern bridge is a huge tourist attraction in Rotterdam.
3. Willemsbrug
Willemsbrug aka Williams Bridge Rotterdam
Bearing resemblance to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Willemsbrug does have fans of its own as well.
4. Willemswerf Building
Willemswerf Building Rotterdam – Jackie Chan slides down the side of this building in the movie “Who Am I”
Bearing testament to the architectural dominance of Rotterdam, the Willemswerf is an architectural excellence along the River Maas.
5. Euromast
Euromast Rotterdam
We really think Euromast is one of the best observation towers around.
6. Laurenskerk
Laurenskerk Rotterdam (Front View)
Traditional architectures holds its own here in Rotterdam. The Laurenskerk is an excellent testimony to that.
7. Others
There are of course many other structures and architectures that are amazing here in Rotterdam. If you know more about these structures, why not share them with us in the comments section below?
Building opposite Laurenskerk RotterdamnUnknown Architecture – Stacked Building RotterdamUnknown Architecture – Overhanging Building RotterdamUnknown Architecture – Half Hanging Building Rotterdam
After seeing all these amazing architectures, don’t you agree that Rotterdam is truly a city of amazing modern architectures?
After a long walk from the Euromast to the Erasmus Bridge, we finally arrived at De Kuip (aka Feyenoord Stadion) some 2 hours later!
Given the distance, we wouldnt recommend taking this route. Perhaps a walk from the Euromast to the Erasmusbrug. But a walk from Euromast to De Kuip is not really recommended. You could if you want to. Looking back, we’d have preferred the trams.
De Kuip aka Feyenoord Stadion (see if you can spot it!) [As seen from Euromast Rotterdam]
We did catch great views along the way…
Sunset near De Kuip Feyenoord StadionFeyenoord Stadion from a distance
The Feyenoord Stadion is home to a very rich history of Dutch football. The most memorable match is recent times has got to be the 2002 UEFA Cup victory over Borussia Dortmund with a score of 3-2.
Legends such as Coenraadt “Coen” Moulijn, a nation revered winger, also plyed his trade with Feyenoord. His statue is even enshrined at the entrance of the stadium…
Coenraadt “Coen” Moulijn, a Feyenoord Legend
Although we did not have the opportunity to go inside, views of the stadium from the exterior tells us volumes of how great this club is
Close up view of Feyenoord StadiumSeating plan at the Feyenoord StadiumParking lots at the Feyenoord Stadium
One of the attractions of Rotterdam has got to be to catch a match here at the Feyenord Stadion. If you have (or had) the opportunity to do so, do share it here with us!
One of most famous attractions in Rotterdam (in addition to Kubus, Willemsbrug, Erasmus Bridge) is of course the Euromast!
Towering 185 metres over the city of Rotterdam, Euromast is the tallest building in Rotterdam. It was constructed towards the end of the 1950s and was the idea of Hugh Maaskant, a Dutch architect.
Euromast RotterdamAnother view of Euromast Rotterdam
The entrance fees to this observatory tower costs 9.25 euro for adults and 5.90 euro for children aged 4-11. At the first floor of the Euromast, there is a Deli (cafe with free wifi) and a small souvenir shop.
On this day, we took the entrance fee with the walking commentary (costs a little bit more but well worth it). With the commentary, you can skip to whichever location you are looking at and hear some interesting snippets of information.
The lower levels of the Euromast Rotterdam
This post will strive to give you the COMPLETE TOUR of EUROMAST with a series of videos. Although some (if not most of it) turned out to be “Blair Witch Projecty”, we hope that our efforts will still give you a good idea of how Euromast is like.
If you enjoyed what you see, then you can make a trip there. If not, the Euroscoop video should give you an excellent view of the city.
First, we entered the lift that brings you right to the height of 96 metres where you will see the Brasserie (Restaurant) on the right and the stairs up to the observation platform, on the left.
Taking the lift up to the height of 96 metres at Euromast
Euromast Brasserie
This is how the Euromast Brasserie looks like…
Euromast Brasserie Rotterdam
The food is reasonably priced for a restaurant up in the sky. We had the club sandwich that came with chips and salad.
Club Sandwich at Euromast Brasserie (10.5 Euro)
The club sandwich is reasonably priced at 10.50 euro (well, it is afterall “sky sandwich”). The cheese was oozing with flavour (dutch cheese are still the best) and each bite was simply delectable. A matching local pint of Heineken rounds up the light but flavourful lunch.
The great thing is that while you’re having your meal, you can also enjoy great views of Rotterdam…
Wine and dine with breath taking views of Rotterdam from Euromast
OR you can hop out for a while and enjoy a ride up on the Euroscoop, an extension of the observation tower. This we will touch on in a short while.
Continuing with the video tour, the flight up the stairs on the left brings you to the first observation deck
Taking the stairs up to the observation deck
Here, you can marvel at the breath taking views of Rotterdam…
Erasmus Bridge as seen from Euromast RotterdamView of the Hotel New York and Montevideo Residence from Euromast RotterdamThe Rotterdam on River MaasDe Kuip aka Feyenoord Stadion (see if you can spot it!) [As seen from Euromast Rotterdam]
The other thing you can do on this deck is some EXTREME SPORTS! To get your adrenaline pumped up, the Euromast also offer enthusiasts the option of abseiling or rope slide which is a version of the “Flying Fox”.
This video shows some participants abseiling…
Abseiling at the Euromast
Moving further up, one has to navigate several flights of stairs to the deck of the Euroscoop. There is also something like a cargo lift that you can take. 2bearbear.com has braved the cold winds (and frozen fingers) to take these videos for you to enjoy in the comfort of your home…
Around the observation deck at Euromast
As you can hear, the winds were really strong and temperatures were at about 5 degrees Celsius. Hence, the cold hands and therefore the shaky video.
Again, we apologise for the “Blair Witch” video, but we make it up to you with this one.
Euroscoop
Stunning views of Rotterdam from the Euroscoop
Along the black walls, there is an entrance into the Euroscoop. The Euroscoop is a revolving observation platform that brings you to the height of 185 metres. From here, you can have unobstructed views of the entire Rotterdam. The best thing is that you can take the ride as many times as you want as it’s already included in the entrance fees!
So why do we say that the
Euromast is how an observation tower ought to be?
1. Unobstructed Views of Rotterdam
As you can see from the videos, Euromast offers unobstructed views of the entire Rotterdam. The best place to catch a bird’s eye view of the city has got to be here.
2. Unlimited rides on the Euroscoop
Unlike some observation towers, the rides on the revolving Euroscoop is included in the entrance fees! This means unlimited rides for the kids!
3. There’s something for everyone!
If you’re a tourist, you’ll enjoy the views of the city.
If you’re an enthusiast, the extreme sports wont disappoint.
If you’re a connoisseur, you’ll enjoy the menu of the Brasserie matched with unparalleled views of the city.
If you’re not into any of the above, you can still chill with your friends at the Deli on the ground floor.
Hence, we would rate the Euromast as one of the best observation towers around. If you have the opportunity, take a trip to the Euromast, you’ll definitely enjoy one of these unique experiences!
The Erasmus Bridge (aka Erasmusbrug) is the most iconic bridge in Rotterdam. In fact, we think that many bridges have been modelled after it. For Singaporeans, you may notice that the Keppel Bay Bridge is somewhat similar as well. So this day, after visiting the world famous Euromast (we shall talk about it in our subsequent posts), we took a walk from the Euromast to the Erasmus Bridge. It took us approximately half hour to reach there. If you take the scenic route along the River Maas, the walk was pretty much enjoyable. En route, we saw the Rotterdam…
The Rotterdam on River Maas
as well as the New York Hotel and Montevideo Residence
View of the Hotel New York and Montevideo Residence from Euromast Rotterdam
The Rotterdam was a cruise ship in yester-years and today, she is permanently moored at this location as a hotel as well as a museum. Hotel New York (vintage building with the red flag) was a place steep in the history of Rotterdam while the Montevideo Residence (the one with the big “M” on it) towers beside it.
Along the way, we passed by this place (called Veerhaven Rotterdam according to Google Map) where ships (that looked like vintage ones from the olden days) were docked. At this location, there was a nice board walk and from there we could have a good view of the Erasmus Bridge as well as structures and ships along the River Maas.
Approaching the Veerhaven RotterdamShips at Veerhaven RotterdamClose up view of the Erasmus Bridge from Veerhaven Rotterdam
Video showing the Erasmus Bridge from Veerhaven Rotterdam
Finally, after “trekking” for more than half an hour, we arrived at the Erasmus Bridge. We passed through it en route to De Kuip aka Stadion Feyenoord. Here’s a view of the bridge while pass through…
Crossing the Erasmus BridgeBeneath the Iconic Erasmus Bridge
Remember that a few posts ago, we touched on the Willemsbrug? We managed to catch an excellent shot of the Erasmus Bridge with the sunset as well!
Erasmus Bridge at Sunset
The Euromast gave us an excellent shot of the Erasmus Bridge too!
Erasmus Bridge as seen from Euromast Rotterdam
Like the Willemsbrug, Erasmus Bridge serves to connect the northern and southern parts of Rotterdam. It was actually designed by Ben van Berkel and was completed in 1996. Looking at its design, it is no wonder that the bridge also earned a nickname – The Swan.
So don’t forget to check out this iconic bridge on your next visit to Rotterdam. You’ll never know when you might see a familiar bridge fashioned after it when you go back to your home country!
“What a strange looking architecture this is!” we said to ourselves, as we laid our eyes upon yellow cube houses that were tilted at an angle…
Kubuswoning aka Cube Houses in RotterdamKubuswoning Rotterdam aka Cube Houses
The next question that comes to mind is “How do people stay in that thing?!”. Thanks to wiki, we do have a picture that depicts the living conditions within.
It seems that a platform is laid across so it is no different than a normal room internally except that the walls are slanted.
A quick search tells us that kubuswoning was actually an idea of the architect Piet Blom. He wanted to create a cluster somewhat like a small village with resemblance to trees and forests. So if you look closely at each cube house, there is actually a supporting beam that is representative to the trunk of a tree. The cube house itself is of course the top of the tree…
The Cube Houses from a distance | Rotterdam Attractions
The predecessor of the cube houses was actually first built in Helmond in 1974. The one we’re seeing now was completed in 1984.
The other interesting thing about the cube houses is that Jackie Chan shot a fighting scene here in the movie “Who Am I”. If you are also a fan, you would have remember him sliding down the Willemswerf building. This scene must have been one of his most iconic action moves in his acting career!
How to get to Kubuswoning / Cube Houses
It is actually quite easy to get to the cube houses. At the end of Hoogstraat, you will notice the Laurenskerk on your left, DONT head there, turn right instead towards the Bibliotheek (the library). Not long after, you should see this building
The Bibliotheek aka Library RotterdamHuurdersvereniging “Het Potlood” aka the Pencil
As this building is shaped like that of the pencil, it is nicked “Het Potlood” by the locals. Once you see it, the cube houses would be just there in view.
To give our readers a feel of the cube houses, enjoy this video clip!
Video of the surrounding of Cube Houses aka Kubuswoning
Laurenskerk is an old church situated in the heart of Rotterdam central.
According to records, the Laurenskerk is the only remaining structure of medieval Rotterdam. Work commenced on the construction of Laurenskerk in the 15th century.
Today, in addition to the church services on Sunday, the Laurenskerk is also a venue for concerts and the arts.
Heading towards the River Maas from Hoogstraat, you would not miss this beautiful church…
Laurenskerk Rotterdam (Front View)Back view of Laurenskerk Rotterdam
There’s one question we would like to ask though. Knowing well that the city of Rotterdam is a place full of unique architectures, we cant help but wonder what building is this opposite the Laurenskerk…
Building opposite Laurenskerk Rotterdamn
We believe it’s an apartment or a condominium? Anyone can verify this?
Willemswerf Building Rotterdam – Jackie Chan slides down the side of this building in the movie “Who Am I”
The Willemswerf Building is exceptionally famous in the Chinese world because of the movie “Who Am I”. In it, Jackie Chan slides down the side of the Willemswerf Building (then owned by Nedlloyd but now acquired by Maersk; sigh…the rise and fall of empires…)
The scene was dramatic as Jackie Chan almost fell down the edge of the slant of the building!
Close up view of the Willemswerf Building Rotterdam
The following video depicts the River Maas and the Willemswerf Building. Notice the unique slant of the building…
Stunning view of the River Maas and the Willemswerf Building
So don’t forget to check out the Willemswerf Building the next time you visit Rotterdam. You might see other visitors thinking to themselves “Now..where have I seen this building before?” (on 2bearbear.com?)
Hoogstraat literally translates to High Street. At this high street of Rotterdam, you can find tonnes of shopping options available!
Hoogstraat Rotterdam
As you have seen in the video above, the shopping street even has street art to add to the flavour of shopping at Hoogstraat!
The other thing we love about shopping here in Rotterdam is that the shopping streets never seem to end…
More shopping in Rotterdam!
Video in and around the shopping tunnel!
Unlike Singapore where space is limited, it is indeed a wonderful feeling to be embraced by rows of shops. The cool weather also makes the shopping experience unique, a stark contrast to the hot and humid weather back home.
Rows of shops in Rotterdam
There’s just one thing that we would never understand…
Why does the fries shop always seem to be full of people??
Crowded fries shop in the shopping streets of Rotterdam
Can someone tell us why there is such a HUGE fries eating culture all around the Netherlands?
On a bright and sunny day, the view of the River Maas (aka Nieuwe Maas) is simply stunning!
As you walk along the river, you simply cant help but notice a bridge that is bright red in colour and resembles the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. This bridge is the Willemsbrug aka Willems Bridge.
The bridge was completed in 1981 and was named after King Willem III of the Netherlands. Why? We do not know…
But what we do know is that it not only provides connectivity for the residents in Rotterdam (from the northern part of the city to the Feijenoord district) but also gives tourists (like us!) an excellent photography moment!
Willemsbrug aka Williams Bridge RotterdamClose up view of the Willemsbrug Rotterdam
Venice is definitely one of the “must visit” destination of all travel itineraries, not only because of its gondolas and one of a kind canals but also because of the feel that Venice exudes at the mention of its name.
In addition, research has also shown that Venice is sinking at a rate faster than previously predicted. Venice could potentially go under in the years to come and that makes it a stronger point than ever to experience this beautiful city.
Venice island hopping tours includes visits to Murano, Burano and Torcello. In this post, we will talk about one of the islands in Venice, Murano. Glass making is an art form that started in Murano. The names murano glass and venetian glass are therefore synonymous with each other.
We were led by our tour guide to the glass making factory and we were treated to a performance whereby the shifu (master) created this beautiful horse out of glass in mere seconds!
Glassmaking Factory in Murano VeniceMurano Glass Making Shifu (Master) at work
Murano Glass Making Shifu forming a glass horse in seconds!
We were all very surprised at the skill that the shifu demonstrates in making this glass horse. He had to craft the horse in the seconds that that glass was hot enough to be crafted yet cool enough to be held in place quickly. According to the guide, he had merely 30 seconds to make each portion quickly and accurately. The finished product…
As shown in the video, it was a pity that this horse fell off the table and broke. However, it was definitely an eye-opener to be able to witness such skills in glass making.
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Hope you have enjoyed our post on glass making in Murano, Venice!
There are so many things to do and attractions in London! Let’s find out what are the things to do right here in London! Be it history, monuments, musicals, river cruises or just plain old attractions, London has it all! It is ranked right up there with New York and (of course, our beloved country) Singapore as truly, the world’s metropolitan/cosmopolitan city!
Kate and I caught a train from Paris to London this day and were pleasantly surprised by the speed of the trains (in excess of 200km/h). Within 2 hours, we were transported to London!
There are many hotels and hostels here in London, so fret not! Our recommendation would be to pick a clean, cosy room, no frills. This is because there are simply so many things to do that the only time you’d be back in your room, is when you really need to rest!
Here are some of the top attractions we visited!
Tower of London
Tower of London
Tower of London
Discover the rich history (over 900 years) of the Tower of London as a palace and also its showcase of the royal crown jewels!
The London Eye
The London Eye
The London Eye
The view from the London overlooks the Thames river and all other attractions along it (Big Ben, Tower Bridge etc.). Once the world’s tallest observatory (now of course it’s the Singapore Flyer! 🙂 it boasts of panoramic views around the city of London.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace
Why not try your luck at catching a glimpse of the royalties at Buckingham Palace? There’s also a daily change of guards, not to be missed!
Big Ben
Big Ben – Clock Tower
Big Ben – Clock Tower
The clock tower synonymous with the city itself is an icon known throughout world!
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge (not to be mistaken with the London Bridge)
Tower Bridge (not to be mistaken with the London Bridge)
The Tower Bridge has got to be one of the most iconic bridges along the river Thames. With its hydraulic raising mechanism, it allows ships to pass through this shipping channel. Another fun fact is that, this iconic Tower Bridge IS NOT the London bridge often mistaken by tourists. The London Bridge is in fact the next bridge upstream.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey London
Westminster Abbey London
Affectionately known as the Abbey, it is also where Prince William and Kate Middleton recently wed. Its unique Gothic design places it right up there with Notre Dame.
River Thames Cruise
River Thames Cruise
River Thames Cruise
Not to be missed is a cruise along the River Thames. Not only can you enjoy the leisure ride as you enjoy the cooling breeze, you can also see all the attractions along the river such as Big Ben and The London Eye. Talk about killing 2 birds with one stone (chinese saying)…
Harrods
Harrods London
Harrods London
If shopping is your forte, the world renowned Harrods is definitely your place to hang out. At Harrods, you should be able to find almost all gifts for all occasions. Even if you have nothing you want to get, why not take home a Harrods bear for the little ones or just a Harrods recyclable shopping bag?
Others
There are of course many other things to do and attractions in London such as musicals, bar hopping, Hyde Park and free museums (British Museum, National Gallery). Take time to explore this grand old dame, reinventing itself as it prepares for the Olympics in 2012!
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