Now Is The Hour ....

A slow sail into Amsterdam was good for organising and packing. Once there our Freedom of Choice tour began with an hour canal cruise. Pleasant, informative and not nearly as hot as we experienced twenty years ago. A short walk,  including floating flower markets which were very cool. A bus tour which did nothing but confirm you have to be mad/fool hardy/brave to drive, cycle or walk in Amsterdam. An obligatory photo stop at a windmill and back to the ship. 

Our final dinner shared with most of our companions of nearly four weeks now was, as always, very enjoyable. We have been very lucky to meet up with such pleasant people. Demographic is much older than when we went to Canada, but we can't complain about the people we have so closely shared this wonderful experience.

Map in hand nine of us headed to the Red Light District. All, other than us, circa seventy and all, other than us, had been before! Lisa and I played teachers on excursion, one at the front and one at the back! Oh my! Went from amazing, to funny to sad. Found myself composing RE style wondering questions. "I wonder what they do in the day?", "I wonder how much they make?" " I wonder if they are happy?" "I wonder what their hopes and dreams are?" etc
According to our APT guide one tour visited and there was a great 'to do' when a guy came across his niece who the family thought was studying in Europe. Glad I had no such surprise ... Thinking ex student rather than nieces V, G, M, J and M! Petty sure I know where you all are!

Five of us had a nightcap on the 11th floor of the Hilton to get an overview of the city. Worth it, except we got back too late to say goodbye to our favourite barman. 
This morning was like army manoeuvres. So many  people heading off in different directions at different times, all organised by the excellent cruise director Jude. Again APT have shone in their professionalism and standard of touring. Highly recommend.

Our day was spent finding a post office for me to send a parcel home, avoiding rain by doing laundry, having a nap and then walking for hours late this afternoon. We head to Dover via three trains tomorrow. The one day of the trip I have not been looking forward to. Fingers crossed all will go smoothly. Feeling pre-tonsillitis. Hopefully Betadine and Panadol will work.