Haarlem

Before departing Rotterdam, we placed our luggage in storage at the hotel to explore a bit more of the city. J was adamant he needed a hair cut, since more than a month has flown by since Malaga, when it was done last.

A suggested a Barber school nearby, but they were fully booked for the week. We stopped in at a nearby salon on our way back. J had a great experience with his stylist as she was very thorough and meticulous. A on the other hand had a speed cut 😲, and didn't dare move due to the stylist going so quickly. A's stylist also gave him a complimentary ear hair removal blow torch treatment...🤯Needless to stay, A left the salon mildly traumatized.😓

It was a quick train to Zandervoort Aam Zee station . Arriving around 3pm, we were welcomed with the start of their Pride Parade. Our walk to the accommodations took us along the parade route, so we were able to see all the floats; ironically, the Durex condom van brought-up the rear... 🤣 Surprisingly the weather was cooperative for the event; although not sunny, at least it wasn't raining and gusty.

From the outside, the hotel looked fairly unassuming. However, stepping into the building was a whole different feeling🫨. We were first met with a musty smell. Then, the entry opened into the very-very quirky lobby with its seaside decor and retro furniture. They really liked their pastels and wooden cloud cut-outs (both for decoration and hiding cables), and fake dune grasses. Our room was on the top floor, and the stair case leading up was very steep and narrow; not at all easy to convey large cumbersome luggage... The general feel was that of a movie set combining "Amelie" and "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel".

Our room continued with the quirky aged theme only with framed formula 2 racing photos. At least the bathroom had been updated, once you got past the 3" step. Though it's more of a built-in toe stubber for the unexpecting 😭

We decided to head to the village square where they had a stage setup with music and performances. The celebratory energy and festive spirit was very evident. While walking around the streets you could see many pride flags and banners, and the store fronts all had rainbow themed displays while boasting their wares.

A found an Italian restaurant near the square, so we were able to dine and enjoy the event. J ordered a "spaghetti with muscles", and A, a pizza. The pasta dish arrived without any muscles, only clams🤔, and you had to pick out the shrapnel of broken shells with mediocre sauce. As usual we shared our meals, but it was A that regretted it most as it gave him a sleepless night and caused his stomach much discomfort for the next 48 hours...

After dinner we ventured over to the stage and watched the performances while sharing a churros dessert. The performances were great, especially the guest singer. He had a delightful voice and energy, and was great with the kids that joined him to dance on stage.

We eventually did walk over to the beach, and the wind was insane; felt like walking in a sand blaster at times. A lady and her husband with ice cream cones were attacked by a flock of gulls 🐦. They were successful in toppling her cone and happily devoured the fallen remains. He quickly raced to the cover of a nearby building, saving one of their treats to enjoy 😲Read more