Monday, April 21
The day started out slowly for me. We didn’t have anywhere to go as the Salvinia was cruising north. It rained lightly, but it didn’t matter. Once we arrived in Alkmaar we met up with the local guides. The weather cleared up. It was overcast, but no rain. The groups that wanted to walk were divided into slower and faster walkers. Alkmaar was a pretty little town. We walked around and learned about the cheese history, among other things. We even toured through the “red light district.” It was too early in the day for the working girls to be out. The ship continued on north about 3:00.
Sailing through the tulip fields was a highlight, with lots of passengers oohing and aahing. After dinner that night we enjoyed local entertainment by a shanty choir. They sang and played for two hours. I turned in about 10:00, as I was very tired. Much more walking than I was prepared for.
Terri Foley