Amsterdam - our last day

This morning we went on an excursion to Zaanse Schans to see some of the few remaining authentic windmills in Holland. Along the way we called in at a cheese factory to see how they make Gouda cheese. 

Our next stop was the clog shop. After a demo of how clogs are made we could try them on and purchase a few souvenirs. 

We then visited one of three mechanical windmills at the site. The windmill is used to grind stone, wood, etc for the production of paint pigments. 

We were also taken on a drive through the World Heritage listed section of the dike which is one of the oldest reclaimed areas in Holland. The houses were very quaint. 

After lunch Stephen, Alex, Graeme and I set out for a cruise on the canals. For an hour we cruised the variety of canals Amsterdam has to offer. It was very interesting. We were particularly taken with the 'dancing houses' - this means that over time the foundations have begun to fail and sink and so many of the houses now stand at different angles, only held up by the houses on either side. 

We are now packed and ready for the treck home. If only we could snap our fingers and be back in Australia. This trip has certainly been the trip of a lifetime - certainly better than either of us had dreamt it would be. We can't wait to start planning the next one.