Today was my first solo day in Rotterdam. My sister and Paolo had a busy day lecturing and so after a cup of tea together in the morning we headed our separate ways until we met up for dinner at 5:30 pm.
The last two days my gracious hosts have guided me around the city and so I felt pretty ready to venture out on my own. I generally have a lousy sense of direction and I cannot read a map to save my life, however I really tried to pay attention these last couple of days, knowing I would be on my own today.
I am happy to report that I pulled it off. I found the local Jumbo supermarket to pick up some supplies for our little afternoon cocktail party tomorrow. I walked for hours around the Delfshaven photographing the houseboats and the windmill and antique stores and cobbled streets. I walked to Rotterdam Centrum and explored new streets and shopping districts, spent time people watching and enjoying the freedom of a day on my own.
I found my way to the restaurant right on time and Lisa, Paolo and I enjoyed an amazing meal, right down to the rosemary panna cotta with blood orange compote that we ordered for dessert.
The highlight of the day came after dinner when Paolo suggested we take a walk across the Erasmus Bridge which is pictured above. Known locally as the Swan it is spectacular at any time of day and from any angle but is absolutely magical at night. As we walked across with the wind blowing through our hair, seeing the city lights around us I felt very, very lucky.
Sounds like a beautiful trip. And good for your for exploring alone. What an adventure. I’m envious.