Exploring Leiden, The Netherlands

Leiden, a charming city in The Netherlands, is often recognised as the birthplace of Rembrandt and a hub of academic excellence. With its picturesque canals and vibrant streets, Leiden offers an appealing blend of history and culture. The city is home to the oldest university in the Netherlands, Leiden University, founded in 1575. Visitors can stroll through the historic city centre, where stunning architecture showcases its rich heritage.

Don’t miss the National Museum of Antiquities, which hosts an impressive collection of ancient artefacts, or the famous botanical gardens that provide a serene escape from the bustling city. Additionally, Leiden's lively markets and unique shops add to the local atmosphere, offering everything from traditional Dutch cheese to artisanal crafts.

Leiden also boasts numerous cafes and restaurants where you can savour Dutch delicacies and international cuisines alike. The city’s vibrant festivals, such as the Leiden Jazz Festival and the annual Hortus Music Festival, highlight its cultural diversity and bring together locals and tourists in celebration.

Whether you’re wandering along the scenic canals, immersing yourself in art and history, or enjoying the friendly local vibe, Leiden is a destination that enchants and inspires. Perfect for a day trip or a longer stay, this delightful city in Holland promises experiences that will linger long after your visit.

Exploring Goes, The Netherlands

Goes is a charming city located in the province of Zeeland, The Netherlands. Known for its rich history and picturesque canals, Goes offers visitors a delightful glimpse into Dutch culture. The city's centre features beautifully preserved buildings, such as the gothic-style St. Jacob's Church, which dates back to the 15th century. The weekly markets are a highlight, where locals and tourists alike can indulge in fresh produce, artisanal goods, and regional specialities. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll discover an array of quaint shops and cafes, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. The surrounding countryside is equally stunning, making it an ideal spot for cycling and exploring nature. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the serene landscapes, Goes is a hidden gem that promises a memorable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to embrace the warmth of this vibrant community and to immerse yourself in the unique character of Holland.

Leiden impressed me a lot. I was fascinated by the canals running through the city. It just made everything quite magical in my opinion. We plan to visit many more cities in The Netherlands as it's a wonderful country. I like the people, the houses and there's water everywhere. It's quite amazing really that it shouldn't be possible to go really anywhere in The Netherlands as it should be under water :-)

The Netherlands, for me, is a place where you find am image at every corner. I'm pretty certain that when we visited all these small towns and villages I found am image everywhere I looked. My wife was pulling her hair out, I'm sure. I feel for all those "amateur photographer wives" throughout the world.

Equipment used during the trip:

Olympus E-M5 II (one of the best cameras Olympus ever made)

Panasonic TZ101 (I take this everywhere I go as it's small but image quality is fine)

Olympus 12-200 f3.5-6.3

Panasonic 7-14 f4 (my go-to wide angle lens for the MFT system)