After a great couple of days in Brussels we make our way to join our ship, the Viking Kvasir to begin our meandering journey from Belgium into the Netherlands (first stop Antwerpen [Antwerp]) with couple of quick stops in Germany. The Kvasir is a beautiful ship (as are all the Viking fleet), with cabins that are marvels of design and engineering. Getting so much, so comfortably and efficiently into a relatively small space is a marvel.
There are about 180 people on board with an average age of 67 (we’re finally beating the averages) ranging from 18 to 90+.
Usually with river cruises on Viking, it’s pretty easy to understand if you’re doing the Rhône or the Thames, but in the Rhine Scheldt Delta, the question always is, “What river are we on?”
With the Rhine in the Netherlands, it’s different since the Rhine waters scatter in every direction as you enter the Low Countries. The land in Holland, often below sea level, has to be managed by uncannily creative ways, for beyond the dikes and a kid’s wet and sore thumb. I’ve a feeling we’ll be learning a lot more about it.
Our first port, while still in Belgium is Antwerp, one of the world’s major seaports (population of ~11.9 million). The photo above right shows one of the sea walls by the river and the contrasts between old and new — in both business and art. The modern, rounded apartments sell for well over two million.
The old town and the Grote Markt are a maze of narrow and winding streets and medieval guilds houses.
The city hall is beautifully guided and be-flagged.
Belgium’s largest church, the gothic Cathedral of our Lady is stunning with the riches of the church and priceless art works, both classic and modern,
I know we all see wonderful examples of Peter Paul Reubens in museums around the world including the massive collection in the Barnes in Philadelphia. Most are pastoral scenes and scores of saftig, naked women. But his religious paintings are spectacular and a very important part of the Cathedral of Our Lady‘s collection.
Two large triptychs and several others.
Plus an eclectic collection of modern works, whimsical and reflective.
Antwerp is also known for two of life’s greatest indulgences; chocolate and diamonds. Belgian chocolate can’t be called Belgian chocolate unless it is produced, by law, under the strictest of regulation. And, the Jewish diamond cutting industry still is centered here.
Our Antwerpian adventure continues tomorrow. Get some sleep.
Cool! Looks awesome,
xoxo