Drive NL: Haarlem

Over the weekend, we drove to Haarlem which lies just outside of Amsterdam.  The more famous Harlem in New York City was named after this Haarlem in The Netherlands (New York was a former Dutch colony).

The pigeons of Haarlem.

Boat house by the river Spaarne.

We caught the opening of the road-bridge to let some leisure crafts through:

Here the bridge is closed and the road above it is open.  Later, it would swivel 90º to let boats through.

Can you spot the difference?  The bridge/road has turned and is open for boats to pass through.

Waiting for the road to open.

Here is a video of the bridge/road swivelling back into place - quite cool:

Gorgeous flowers by the sidewalk.

Local pigeons and ducks.

Lovely old buildings by the waterway.

This is another bridge which was kind of half open, so people can pass above and below it.

Sint-Bavokerk at the central market square.

Lunch by the cathedral.  It was sunny but the wind was chilly.

Impromptu PDA (Public Display of Affection) on the streets of Haarlem:

First, the forehead rub.

Then checking for cavities.

Finally, the nibble.

Typical street scene.

Window display at a violin shop.

Interesting decoupage shop facade.

Chilling out by the river before heading back.

All strapped in and not going anywhere :)