Exploration of Cologne, Germany! =================

During our initial trip to the Netherlands, our schedule was brimming with numerous tours and visits. Almost every week, we embarked on outings, realizing that our stay in the Netherlands was approaching its conclusion.

The close proximity of the Netherlands to several other renowned European countries enticed us to explore further, as the allure of witnessing more is a common sentiment.

Despite the occasional weariness that accompanies frequent excursions, our insatiable desire to explore new places persisted.

Recognizing this enthusiasm, Priya orchestrated a plan for a captivating trip to Cologne, Germany. Tickets were booked, and the journey was set in motion.

Upon learning of our plans, our son-in-law, Giri, eagerly volunteered to accompany us, offering to drive us there in his car. The excitement was palpable, and on the morning of November 12th, our journey to Cologne began. The weather was delightful, and our grandchildren Siddhu and Ani added to the joy of our travels.

En route, we indulged in breakfast at La Place, a charming hotel in the Netherlands. The picturesque landscapes of the Netherlands, bordering Cologne, provided an enchanting backdrop. By noon, we reached Cologne and settled into the welcoming Merian Hotel.

Lunch at Udum Vegan Restaurant, a Japanese establishment, introduced us to culinary delights like Lotus soup, Edamame, Bun Bo Hue, Salat Bowl, Black Sushi Rice, and more.

Our exploration continued with a visit to Neo Market, accessible via the local metro train. The festive atmosphere of the market, teeming with tourists, made strolling through the streets a delightful experience.

In the evening, we marveled at the renowned Cologne Cathedral, a masterpiece of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture. Declared a World Heritage Site in 1996, it stands as Germany's most visited landmark. The architectural splendor left a lasting impression. We concluded the day with a visit to an aquarium.

The following morning, we explored the Hohenzollern Bridge over the River Rhine, a fantastic structure that provided a memorable walking experience.

With the visit to Cologne etched in our memories, we safely returned to Amstelveen, cherishing the moments of our memorable and enjoyable trip to Germany.