Giethoorn, Netherlands

We try to take advantage of the few days off Keith has during basketball season. Recently we were told about this little bit of Venice right here in Holland. It's an absolutely beautiful village located just about 40 minutes from where we live right now.



The village, Giethoorn, is made up of canals instead of roads. We rented a boat, they handed us a map, and we began our little voyage. The trip started off so nice, sailing through the town, waving at others, trying not to run into other boats. It was amazing to think that people actually LIVED there. We were cruising through a residential area, on small motor boat. Can you imagine that? Anyway, we were loving the town. Someway, somehow, we lost track of exactly where we were going. We were supposed to follow all the yellow arrows....... what yellow arrows?? haha! Well, we got to a big lake, no town in sight, no other boats in sight.. just open water and us in an oversized canoe. We were not by any means prepared to be out in open water. No life vests (we should have asked for some), no paddles (if our tiny motor engine decided to quit), and a weak looking map. Okay, so what? We can handle this.

Then, we get stuck, on some incredibly shallow water.... we're talking like an inch deep, it came out of nowhere! The boat is stuck, we don't want get out to push it, and there is no one to flag down for help. Luckily they gave us a stick. After much pushing, pulling, and prayer (with some laughs in between) We were free of the shallow water trenches. Village life was upon us yet again, and everything was good! We parked the boat, and went for some much deserved hot chocolate, and the best nachos we've ever had! (Not your typical snack combo, but it was BOMB!) We definitely recommend a trip to Geithoorn if the opportunity arises, but steer clear of shallow water.