Today began bright and early with a 6:45 wake-up call for a 7 am breakfast. After fueling up, we boarded the bus for a picturesque one and a half-hour drive to the Zuiderzee Museum. The museum, a delightful blend of indoor and outdoor exhibits, featured a charming, meticulously preserved village. What made the journey even more exciting was the boat ride to reach the museum. Though infested by gnats, the outdoor museum was fascinating none the less. I learned that sailing is a very important part of Dutch culture since there were always a ton of sailboats adorning the lake, all of them proudly flying the Dutch flag.

Originally a part of the Zuiderzee, or the South Sea, this village and others like it were separated when the Dutch reclaimed land. Concerned that the unique culture of the Zuiderzee region would fade into obscurity, the Dutch took the initiative to preserve these villages in the 1940s.

Aside from exploring the quaint village, the museum offered various outdoor activities. One such activity was rowing small boats on the Zuiderzee, providing visitors with an immersive experience of the region’s rich maritime heritage. Exploring the remnants of a quaint European fishing village was a fascinating experience, particularly as this architectural style is unique and can’t be found anywhere in the US. The village was bustling with activity, with hundreds of boats dotting the shoreline.

Inside the village, we had the opportunity to peek into various buildings that once played pivotal roles in the fishing industry. From the towering smokestacks to the sailmaker’s workshop and the boat repair yards, every corner of the village offered a glimpse into its rich maritime history. After wandering through the village and soaking in its atmosphere, we enjoyed a delicious meal at one of the charming restaurants.

I had an amazing day today, especially spending time in the quaint Dutch historical town. The lengthy travel was more than worthwhile! It’s unfortunate that the museums we saw today aren’t more common in the United States. We boarded the bus around 1:45 pm and returned to the hostel by 3:45 pm, concluding another enriching day of exploration.

For dinner, we all hopped on the tram to visit the local Markethall, where I indulged in a delicious chicken wrap followed by some scrumptious churros. The architecture of the market and the surrounding city was breathtaking, unlike anything I had ever seen before. It was a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!