Itinerary:  Travel directly to the Netherlands to see cheese and clogs in working environments – and enjoy a Dutch breakfast (included) at the Simonehoeve Cheese Farm as you arrive.  The Klomp family and their staff show you the Dutch traditions of making cheese  Of course, there is time to sample some of this renowned export and even purchase some of your favorites.   Appreciate their big wooden shoe factory where they explain and demonstrate how the clogs are made both by hand and by machine.  Depart shortly after shopping (about 10:30) and continue by bus to the city of Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, and a European marvel!

Amsterdam was founded in the Middle Ages and is very compact, with the main historical and cultural sights located conveniently close to each other. It has the largest historical inner city in Europe. The city comprised 70 islands, which are separated by nearly 50 miles of canals and connected by more than 1000 bridges. Amsterdam is characterized by narrow canals and picturesque houses organized along canals and squares.  The rows of arched bridges, almshouses, hidden courtyards, market squares and alleyways make it feel like an open-air museum. 

In Amsterdam, you will first enjoy a boat ride along the most picturesque of the canals and hear the explanations of historical locations.  Afterwards, the boat drops you at a diamond and gem-cutting exhibit where you learn how modern-day Amsterdam has kept pace with its colonial history as world-class gem merchants.  Now is an opportunity for approximately 6 hours of free time in Amsterdam during which you can follow your own endeavours.  During your time in this historical city, you can choose to visit sites related to history, art, architecture, commerce or entertainment.  See the most important sights such as Dam Square with the impressive Royal Palace and New Church, or visit Madame Tussaud’s Wax museum.  Stop at the Rijksmuseum, which features such famous paintings as Rembrandt's `Nightwatch' and `Jewish bride' and the paintings of Vermeer, Frans Hals, Ruysdael etc. are on exhibit. Another option is a visit to the Van Gogh museum, designed by Gerrit Rietveld. It has a collection of over 200 paintings and 600 drawings by Vincent van Gogh. Amsterdam is also the home of the Anne Frank House - the hiding place of the young Jewish girl who wrote her famous diary here. Perhaps you will ask the RTT tour guide for some pointers? From cozy pubs to avid shopping and much more – entertainment is plentiful in Amsterdam!

**In July, August and September, you’ll continue up the road after your breakfast, to the nearby old fishing village of Volendam.  As a result of its completely isolated location on the Ljsselmeer and because of the tough vitality of the fishermen, this village preserved its character for six centuries.  The characteristic small houses, which together with the canals and the drawbridges form the most picturesque spots, present the visitor an atmosphere of hospitality and romance.  A collection  of costumes, original interiors of houses, fishing memorabilia and the world-famous “cigar bands house” make the Volendam Museum a truly unique experience!  Free time here will give you the opportunity to explore.  Depart shortly after noon and continue by bus to the city of Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, and a European marvel! Here you will continue your tours as described above, with about 4 hours of free time in Amsterdam.

Depart Amsterdam at about 6:30 p.m.  The return travel includes a late dinner stop en route and arrival to points of origin at approximately 1 a.m.