At the beginning of August this summer I visited Rotterdam for a day, all a part of my sisters surprise hen party weekend, all organised by myself. Leaving from Hull’s ferry terminal, we travelled on P&Os’ Pride of Hull on the Friday and we dropped on so much with the weather! Spending a few hours out on deck having a few drinks, we didn’t want to go inside for our dinner but it was worth it. The Kitchen, the buffet restaurant on the ferry, has a wide selection of cuisines with one end including various Asian dishes, a carvery area, soup of the night as well as a variation of classic foods such as pasta, chicken and veg along the sides that would leave nobody hungry, and not forgetting a selection of desserts available. From there, we headed to the lounges to enjoy the evening with a few drinks and enjoy the sailing to our destination.
But now the main day of it all, Rotterdam. Waking up early to get our breakfast in The Kitchen, once again, a good selection of breakfast dishes hot or cold available, we then headed off the boat. For anyone interested in doing this trip, finding the coach transfers to your chosen destination (Rotterdam, or even Amsterdam is available for this trip) is easy as they are parked right outside the terminal with permanent signs for both. An approximately 30 minute journey is made before being dropped off at the bus stops of the Rotterdam Central Station which is perfect for finding your way around or even using the multiple transportation options there.
Our first target was the Euromast tower, about a 25 minute walk from the station and for only €10.25 you can go up the 185m tall tower and take your time on the viewing platforms and on the 7 minute Euroscoop which allows a 360 degree view of the city below you as you rise higher. From then on, we headed the short walk to the park that was below us and decided to get a drink and shared some chips and mayo to put us on for a bit.
From then on, we caught one of the many frequent and reliable trams just outside of the park, to a stop approximately 5 minute walk away from the Food Market hall. Visiting the hall is worth it and should definitely be a point of interest to venture round and give yourself enough time to enjoy the different stalls available. Safe to say, a lot of cheese was purchased in this hall, but with over a 100 stalls ranging of restaurants, fresh produce and food sellers, there will be something for everyone and their varying tastes. A few of us tried Kroketten, a Dutch food that are similar to croquettes though usually with beef, which we tried, as well as an option of veal. A couple of these and a cone of chips (again) we fell in love and I honestly wish I could find these back home!
Before having to leave one of my new favourite cities, we had a quick walk over to the Cube Houses. Quirky and unconventional, these houses mess with any previous conceptions looking at a house. With slanted walls and windows, questions arise as to how interior decor could possibly work before stepping inside. A couple of euros is all it costs to go around one of the homes and I personally would say it is worth it, looking around as to how this oddly shaped building could be planned out to include the standard rooms in a house including the kitchen, dining area, bedroom and extra living space and yet not feeling cramped or as if you were missing anything.
Unfortunately, our day was up in Rotterdam and we returned to the central station to get our bus back to the ferry. Whilst further antics occurred later that evening after once again another top buffet at The Kitchen, including dancing and drinking, we all left the weekend wanting to return to Rotterdam for a longer duration. Hopefully I can get back there sooner rather than later!
Lancashire Lass 