Train to Cologne

We managed to hit yet another major holiday the day we traveled from Rotterdam to Cologne (May 1st is a big deal in Europe) so the train was crowded and a little complicated, but once we were settled in it was a delight to watch the countryside fly by and to get glimpses of many towns, red roofs, cathedrals and train stations in between the fields. Kristine arranged for all of our train rides so that we were met with special attendants and ramps to ensure our access.  I am so very grateful that she was able to do this part of the trip with us.  She was an AMAZING help and so much fun to be with.  

 It was a huge relief to find our hotel which was only about 5 minutes away from the train station.  We hobbled and bobbled over the cobblestones with our suitcases and my wheelchair and happily settled in to a very spacious and accessible room.

Our hotel was situated on a lovely open square with many cafe's and we were steps away from the River Rhine and the huge and famous "Dom" (cathedral).

Our adventures began and we had lots of fun enjoying the atmosphere and beauty of Cologne.  Patrice's friend Jenny met us at the train station and spent the day with us.  Kristine and I happened upon a hilarious street performer as we were heading along the riverside.  So many people out walking and biking and enjoying the lovely Spring evening and celebrating the first of May.  After enjoying a hot drink at this lovely locale, Patrice and Jenny headed to Jenny's place for the night and Kristine and I snuggled down into our puffy beds with gigantic fluffy pillows with the window swung open to bring in the fresh night air.

So very European.

I cannot figure out exactly what to do with the massive pillows here though. 

Breakfast at the hotel was simply delicious.

There was hot chocolate too which seems to fit in with the theme of this holiday.  I don't know when I last drank so much hot chocolate. Whenever I am cold this seems to be the drink of choice which could get fattening in a big hurry.

Our sightseeing continued and we were simply blown away with the beauty of the huge Dom which apparently had been ordered to be "spared" in the World War 2 bombings.  I am so very glad someone gave that order.

Pictures do not give justice to this incredible masterpiece built to honour Jehovah, THE Master Architect and Designer.

The spaces were mindbogglingly massive and awe inspiring. 

Many marvellous stained glass windows

created a myriad of reflected rainbows on the majestic columns and carvings within.

Simply breathtaking.

Even the tile floors were a work of art and beauty.

Here we are with the awesome spire towering over our humble happy little heads.

How very fun that Patrice had a friend in this city creating the opportunity to come and behold all of this. 

From the Dom we headed over the Rhine River on a bridge that was covered with a multitude of locks all the way across.  

Layers and layers of them, telling silent stories of loves that have come and gone...

Of course we took countless selfies trying to capture the magnitude and marvel of the locks, the bridge, the Cathedral in the background and us! 

I managed to get almost everything in this picture above, along with part of my glove for good measure. 

Sadly most of the "old city" of Cologne was destroyed during the WWII bombings

but it is still a very lovely city and we thoroughly enjoyed our time there.