We got to Amsterdam early to explore some of the local sights–the Ann Frank house and the Rembrandt museum, among other things. I was really hoping to see something about the Dutch East India company and the Dutch place in European imperialism; struck out on that. Of course, Amsterdam in those days was renown for its red light district (Carolyn’s comment: “The women are all so beautiful”) and weed. It was also bicycle friendly, like so much of Europe.
Having travelled Tauck before, I knew the ship would have bicycles, and brought gear to ride some of the cities, which would be a great way to cover a lot of ground. When we left Amsterdam, the rest of the trip remains a blur of castles guarding the Rhine (or shaking down vessels traversing it), cities such as Regensburg, the seat (sometimes) of the Holy Roman Empire’s parliament, Nuremberg, the scene of Nazi rallies, and the home of Albrecht Durer. It’s hard to tell one from the other from the pictures, but here’s a sampling of a wonderful trip that took us through the canals and rivers that linked European trade and history together. A highlight was the 25 mile bike ride through the Wachau Valley, between Melk and Krems, past vineyards and cute little towns that invited a look and a drink.