The nearest beach from here can be found in the Netherlands. It's still a three and a half hour drive down there but ok for a short getaway. I love the sea, especially when it's windy and rough. Our doggy Hilda has from what we know, never seen a beach or saltwater, so we wanted to try out if she likes it, and rented a dog-friendly apartment in Vlissingen. We don't have plans, just to chill out, enjoy strolling at the beach, have a good read and dig in some seafood. (Sep 3 to 7)
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| Vlissingen |
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| The Alien? |
Vlissingen is a city in the Dutch province of Zeeland. It has been an important harbour since medieval times first mentioned in the 13th century, known for shipbuilding, fishing, and maritime trade. The city played a key role in Dutch naval history due to its strategically important location on the mouth of the Western Scheldt river and was heavily bombed during World War II. Today, Vlissingen is both an industrial port and a tourist destination, famous for its long boulevard along the North Sea, sandy beaches, and maritime atmosphere.
Some more impressions from our beach walks:
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| Ripe sea berry |
We also visited Middelburg, the capital of Zeeland province in the southwest of the Netherlands. Founded in the 9th century as a defense against Viking raids, it grew into a wealthy trading hub during the Dutch Golden Age, particularly in shipping and the Dutch East India Company. The city is known for its historic center, with medieval streets, canals, and landmarks like the late-Gothic town hall and Middelburg Abbey. Today, it’s a lively cultural and administrative center, blending its rich history with modern life, and serving as a gateway to Zeeland’s coastal region.
Well, from the smile on her face we gather that Hilda liked the beach a lot, and so did we!
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| A sunset for Dom |
Some odd things found on the promenade:
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| Free sun screen from big dispensers |
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| Separate recycling of cans and bottles |
Sonja, as an animal lover, it really warms my heart to see posts like this. You guys have given Hilda the absolute best life and in return, she has enriched yours. Now that's what I call a real win. Our two cats do the same for us - endlessly entertaining and great company!
ReplyDeleteIt never ceases to amaze us how much joy Hilda has brought into our lives. Definitely a win for all. Cheers, SonjaM
DeleteThank you SonjaM for the sunset pic! I had to use google lens to figure out the "alien" was a Vellela Vellela....cool stuff. Glad Hilda liked the big water, such a happy look dog.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Dom. As for the jellyfish I am always partly fascinated and partly disgusted. Hilda was so happy, less with the waves and more so with the sand. She enjoyed digging very much. Cheers, Sonja
DeleteSchöne Bilder von Holland, tolle Wetterstimmungen. Und dazu eine sichtbar zufriedene Hilda, ihr gefällt es bei euch!
ReplyDeleteLG Werner
Ich glaube, dass das Glück mit Hilda auf beiden Seiten ist. Sie ist gut für uns und wir tun alles, damit sie es gut bei uns hat. LG SonjaM
Deleteso eine tolle Reise! Die Sonnencreme-Spender waren Anfang des Sommers mal in den deutschen Nachrichten, fand ich eine super Idee. Und fuer Hilda war es wohl auch genau das Richtige mit dem Wasser und Strand.
ReplyDeleteIch hab sowas noch nie gesehen, fand es aber angesichts der Tatsache, dass man sowas immer mal vergisst (ich auch!), eine super Idee. LG SonjaM
DeleteLooking at your beach pictures reminded me of my hometown in the island of Puerto Rico. The ocean is everywhere you look.
ReplyDeletePuerto Rico... has always the ring of vacation to me. Thanks for commenting. Cheers, SonjaM
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