Rotterdam, Netherlands
Oct, 2022
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Oct, 2022
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Oct, 2022
In memory of Raaj Kamal
This post is dedicated to my late cousin, Raaj Kamal, whose inspiration led me to visit Rotterdam.
Sadly, Raaj Kamal passed away in August 2023, at the age of 31. He was a remarkably bright individual, known for his humility and his unwavering commitment to helping those he cared about. As the eldest in our family, he was an inspiration to us all. He came to know I was visiting Amsterdam, and immediately reached out to share a list of his favourite places in Amsterdam. He also encouraged me to explore Rotterdam and Kinderdijk, arranging my travel to Rotterdam with thoughtful care. Losing someone of his gentle spirit and promising potential at such a young age is truly heartbreaking, and his absence will be deeply felt.
In memory of Raaj Kamal
This post is dedicated to my late cousin, Raaj Kamal, whose inspiration led me to visit Rotterdam.
Sadly, Raaj Kamal passed away in August 2023, at the age of 31. He was a remarkably bright individual, known for his humility and his unwavering commitment to helping those he cared about. As the eldest in our family, he was an inspiration to us all. He came to know I was visiting Amsterdam, and immediately reached out to share a list of his favourite places in Amsterdam. He also encouraged me to explore Rotterdam and Kinderdijk, arranging my travel to Rotterdam with thoughtful care. Losing someone of his gentle spirit and promising potential at such a young age is truly heartbreaking, and his absence will be deeply felt.
In memory of Raaj Kamal
This post is dedicated to my late cousin, Raaj Kamal, whose inspiration led me to visit Rotterdam.
Sadly, Raaj Kamal passed away in August 2023, at the age of 31. He was a remarkably bright individual, known for his humility and his unwavering commitment to helping those he cared about. As the eldest in our family, he was an inspiration to us all. He came to know I was visiting Amsterdam, and immediately reached out to share a list of his favourite places in Amsterdam. He also encouraged me to explore Rotterdam and Kinderdijk, arranging my travel to Rotterdam with thoughtful care. Losing someone of his gentle spirit and promising potential at such a young age is truly heartbreaking, and his absence will be deeply felt.
Day 1: Markthal
Arriving in Rotterdam from Amsterdam by bus, I was immediately captivated by the modern grandeur of Central Station. This architectural marvel was just a glimpse of the city's splendor. After dropping off my belongings at the hotel, I wandered through the streets, enchanted by the inviting ambiance created by trams passing through tree-lined avenues, and green patches frames by glass buildings.
Next, I explored Markthal (Market Hall), a remarkable market encased within a striking architectural structure, a regular building. The building, resembling a horseshoe, housings residents and offices, some with panoramic views of the bustling market below—an engineering marvel that left me in awe. The market itself had a wide variety of establishments, offering a wide vareity of cuisines.
Following this, I ventured to the nearby Cube Houses, to view it's unconventional design. Intrigued by the shape, I couldn't help but wonder about the arrangement of rooms within these cube-shaped homes. Where would the kitchen be, how would the light pass through the rooms, where would the toilet be? After enjoying lively atmosphere of the city's cycle-filled streets, I made my way to the Maas River, where I admired the city skyline and its array of well architected buildings.
Day 1: Markthal
Arriving in Rotterdam from Amsterdam by bus, I was immediately captivated by the modern grandeur of Central Station. This architectural marvel was just a glimpse of the city's splendor. After dropping off my belongings at the hotel, I wandered through the streets, enchanted by the inviting ambiance created by trams passing through tree-lined avenues, and green patches frames by glass buildings.
Next, I explored Markthal (Market Hall), a remarkable market encased within a striking architectural structure, a regular building. The building, resembling a horseshoe, housings residents and offices, some with panoramic views of the bustling market below—an engineering marvel that left me in awe. The market itself had a wide variety of establishments, offering a wide vareity of cuisines.
Following this, I ventured to the nearby Cube Houses, to view it's unconventional design. Intrigued by the shape, I couldn't help but wonder about the arrangement of rooms within these cube-shaped homes. Where would the kitchen be, how would the light pass through the rooms, where would the toilet be? After enjoying lively atmosphere of the city's cycle-filled streets, I made my way to the Maas River, where I admired the city skyline and its array of well architected buildings.
Day 1: Markthal
Arriving in Rotterdam from Amsterdam by bus, I was immediately captivated by the modern grandeur of Central Station. This architectural marvel was just a glimpse of the city's splendor. After dropping off my belongings at the hotel, I wandered through the streets, enchanted by the inviting ambiance created by trams passing through tree-lined avenues, and green patches frames by glass buildings.
Next, I explored Markthal (Market Hall), a remarkable market encased within a striking architectural structure, a regular building. The building, resembling a horseshoe, housings residents and offices, some with panoramic views of the bustling market below—an engineering marvel that left me in awe. The market itself had a wide variety of establishments, offering a wide vareity of cuisines.
Following this, I ventured to the nearby Cube Houses, to view it's unconventional design. Intrigued by the shape, I couldn't help but wonder about the arrangement of rooms within these cube-shaped homes. Where would the kitchen be, how would the light pass through the rooms, where would the toilet be? After enjoying lively atmosphere of the city's cycle-filled streets, I made my way to the Maas River, where I admired the city skyline and its array of well architected buildings.
Day 2: Rivers and Bridges
The day began with a captivating guided boat tour, providing insightful commentary on the intricate workings of Rotterdam's bustling harbors and unveiling the city's hidden gems. As we glided along the waterways, the narrative illuminated Rotterdam's rich maritime history and modern innovations, offering a deeper understanding of its vibrant culture. The cruise was also a great way to admire many modern buildings that were sitatued throughout the river.
Later that afternoon, I embarked on a leisurely exploration of the city, entranced by the myriad bridges that spanned the waterways. Each bridge, from the iconic Erasmus Bridge to the lesser-known architectural marvels, showcased Rotterdam's commitment to blending tradition with innovation. The sleek lines and contemporary designs of these structures stood in stark contrast to the historical backdrop, creating a visual tapestry that epitomized Rotterdam's dynamic spirit.
Day 2: Rivers and Bridges
The day began with a captivating guided boat tour, providing insightful commentary on the intricate workings of Rotterdam's bustling harbors and unveiling the city's hidden gems. As we glided along the waterways, the narrative illuminated Rotterdam's rich maritime history and modern innovations, offering a deeper understanding of its vibrant culture. The cruise was also a great way to admire many modern buildings that were sitatued throughout the river.
Later that afternoon, I embarked on a leisurely exploration of the city, entranced by the myriad bridges that spanned the waterways. Each bridge, from the iconic Erasmus Bridge to the lesser-known architectural marvels, showcased Rotterdam's commitment to blending tradition with innovation. The sleek lines and contemporary designs of these structures stood in stark contrast to the historical backdrop, creating a visual tapestry that epitomized Rotterdam's dynamic spirit.
Day 2: Rivers and Bridges
The day began with a captivating guided boat tour, providing insightful commentary on the intricate workings of Rotterdam's bustling harbors and unveiling the city's hidden gems. As we glided along the waterways, the narrative illuminated Rotterdam's rich maritime history and modern innovations, offering a deeper understanding of its vibrant culture. The cruise was also a great way to admire many modern buildings that were sitatued throughout the river.
Later that afternoon, I embarked on a leisurely exploration of the city, entranced by the myriad bridges that spanned the waterways. Each bridge, from the iconic Erasmus Bridge to the lesser-known architectural marvels, showcased Rotterdam's commitment to blending tradition with innovation. The sleek lines and contemporary designs of these structures stood in stark contrast to the historical backdrop, creating a visual tapestry that epitomized Rotterdam's dynamic spirit.
Day 3: Kinderdijk
Following my cousin Raaj's recommendation, I embarked on a journey to Kinderdijk on my third day. This UNESCO World Heritage site homes stunning windmills dating back to the 18th century. As I approached, the sight of these historic structures against the backdrop of the landscape was truly breathtaking, and their photogenic allure was undeniable.
To my surprise, the site seemed relatively quiet, with only a handful of locals cycling or jogging along the trails. Upon arrival, I was greeted by a wide trail that meandered past numerous windmills. Immersed in the tranquil surroundings, I savored the symphony the gentle rustle of wildlife amongst the tall grass while observing the windmills. Venturing off the beaten path whenever I felt there was picturesque moment, I marveled at the remarkable craftsmanship of the windmills and the canals. Having recently toured the museum in Zaans in Amsterdam, I had a deeper understanding of their intricate workings and construction process, which allowed me to imagine the Dutch laboring away to erect these iconic structures.
After hours of exploration, I had circled the trail, passing by quaint neighboring homes as I made it back to the bus stop. Peering through their windows, I was fascinated by their interior decor, abundant greenery, and absence of television sets—a stark contrast to the North American lifestyle. It was a nice reminder of the Dutch emphasis on knowledge and simplicity.
A visit to Kinderdijk is highly recommended for anyone exploring Rotterdam, offering a glimpse into the rich history and unique lifestyle of the Dutch countryside. I would like to thank my late cousin for taking the time out of his busy world to guide me and offer me these great adventures, that I am able to share with others. Thank you Raaj.
Day 3: Kinderdijk
Following my cousin Raaj's recommendation, I embarked on a journey to Kinderdijk on my third day. This UNESCO World Heritage site homes stunning windmills dating back to the 18th century. As I approached, the sight of these historic structures against the backdrop of the landscape was truly breathtaking, and their photogenic allure was undeniable.
To my surprise, the site seemed relatively quiet, with only a handful of locals cycling or jogging along the trails. Upon arrival, I was greeted by a wide trail that meandered past numerous windmills. Immersed in the tranquil surroundings, I savored the symphony the gentle rustle of wildlife amongst the tall grass while observing the windmills. Venturing off the beaten path whenever I felt there was picturesque moment, I marveled at the remarkable craftsmanship of the windmills and the canals. Having recently toured the museum in Zaans in Amsterdam, I had a deeper understanding of their intricate workings and construction process, which allowed me to imagine the Dutch laboring away to erect these iconic structures.
After hours of exploration, I had circled the trail, passing by quaint neighboring homes as I made it back to the bus stop. Peering through their windows, I was fascinated by their interior decor, abundant greenery, and absence of television sets—a stark contrast to the North American lifestyle. It was a nice reminder of the Dutch emphasis on knowledge and simplicity.
A visit to Kinderdijk is highly recommended for anyone exploring Rotterdam, offering a glimpse into the rich history and unique lifestyle of the Dutch countryside. I would like to thank my late cousin for taking the time out of his busy world to guide me and offer me these great adventures, that I am able to share with others. Thank you Raaj.
Day 3: Kinderdijk
Following my cousin Raaj's recommendation, I embarked on a journey to Kinderdijk on my third day. This UNESCO World Heritage site homes stunning windmills dating back to the 18th century. As I approached, the sight of these historic structures against the backdrop of the landscape was truly breathtaking, and their photogenic allure was undeniable.
To my surprise, the site seemed relatively quiet, with only a handful of locals cycling or jogging along the trails. Upon arrival, I was greeted by a wide trail that meandered past numerous windmills. Immersed in the tranquil surroundings, I savored the symphony the gentle rustle of wildlife amongst the tall grass while observing the windmills. Venturing off the beaten path whenever I felt there was picturesque moment, I marveled at the remarkable craftsmanship of the windmills and the canals. Having recently toured the museum in Zaans in Amsterdam, I had a deeper understanding of their intricate workings and construction process, which allowed me to imagine the Dutch laboring away to erect these iconic structures.
After hours of exploration, I had circled the trail, passing by quaint neighboring homes as I made it back to the bus stop. Peering through their windows, I was fascinated by their interior decor, abundant greenery, and absence of television sets—a stark contrast to the North American lifestyle. It was a nice reminder of the Dutch emphasis on knowledge and simplicity.
A visit to Kinderdijk is highly recommended for anyone exploring Rotterdam, offering a glimpse into the rich history and unique lifestyle of the Dutch countryside. I would like to thank my late cousin for taking the time out of his busy world to guide me and offer me these great adventures, that I am able to share with others. Thank you Raaj.
Last updated April 2024
Last updated April 2024
Last updated April 2024