Eau de Cologne

Last night shortly before dinner, the cruise line offered to upgrade Gayle and me to a Jr. Suite if we were willing to move.  After about 15 seconds of serious deliberation, we began throwing clothes in the suitcase.  It was definitely worth the effort of  packing and unpacking again.  The extra space and the 2 huge French balconies were wonderful.  I had planned to sleep in today as we had a late departure this morning, but, when I awoke and saw the stars overhead, I knew I couldn't waste a beautiful morning by just sleeping!

About mid morning we arrived in Cologne, Germany. The photo of me dressed as "Nanook of the North" was taken as we neared the city with the famous cathedral in the background.  There was definitely a brisk wind blowing, but I was prepared!

 I read this  interesting tidbit about Cologne in AMA Waterway's daily bulletin. At the beginning of the 18th century, Italian expatriate Johann Maria Farina created a fragrance and named it after his new residence, Cologne.  Eau de Cologne (Water from Cologne) became a household term and has continued to be a common phrase over the centuries.  Incidentally, this fragrance is still produced, and is sold from this building near the cathedral.  Each evening we have a small gift on our bed, and today's was a  bottle of  Farina 471.  The name came from the number of this building.

We docked  and walked right into the city. Today was a beautiful winter morning -- cold but crystal blue sky.  First stop was the famous Cologne cathedral.   Begun in 1248, this is the largest cathedral in Northern Europe and the third tallest spire in the world.  It is truly an impressive Gothic structure, and  the stained glass windows were breathtaking as the bright sunlight streamed through them.

Shortly after noon our tour was finished and we began to explore the historic part of the city and it's numerous Christmas Markets.  I've seen many markets but none were lovelier today than the small, quaint ones we visited on this lovely day.  We explored them at a leisurely pace and only manage to get to 2 of them, but the first stop was for their 2011 mugs of Gluhwein.  For those of you who haven't followed me through previous markets, Let me explain that Gluhwein (hot mulled wine) is the traditional drink and each market designs their own mugs each year.  For about 1euro extra you can keep the mug, and I've acquired quite a collection.  It's also great way to meet the locals while standing around sipping the fragrant wine.  The couples sharing our table here were from Cologne and were getting married this Friday.  It was great fun visiting with them and sharing their excitement.

On their suggestion, we headed over to the Alter Market which was located in front of the narrow-gabled houses of the Old Town Hall.  It was so charming with it's half-timbered stalls and ice skating rink.  We found the food stall they had recommended and thoroughly enjoyed the Reibekuckens (similar to potato pancakes but much better!)  I asked them to add a side of ketchup and later was politely informed by two local ladies sharing our table that applesauce was the traditional accompaniment --nothing like looking like an American!  Needless to say I had to order another Gluhwein as the mugs in this market were different from the first market.

By now the sun was starting to set and we walked back to the boat along the banks of the Rhine. Leaving Cologne after dinner, I took these photos of the Hohenzollern  Bridge and the Cathedral, landmarks of this famous city.  The Rhine Gorge and Rudesheim are our destinations tomorrow.
 Linda