🇳🇱 A Day Trip to the Dutch Town of Den Bosch | Market, Cruise, and Desserts—All in One! 🛶🧀

Last weekend, I visited a good friend in the Netherlands and took the opportunity to stroll around the city where she lives. The city is called 's-Hertogenbosch, often referred to as Den Bosch. Its name means "Duke's Forest" because it was originally founded in the forest by the Duke of Brabant. As early as around 1500, Den Bosch experienced a golden age, becoming a major commercial and cultural center in the southern Netherlands.

Currently, Den Bosch is the capital of the province of Noord-Brabant. While not one of the largest cities in the Netherlands, it is a medium-sized city with a unique character. Surrounded by a moat, it boasts a rich history and breathtaking scenery.

🧀 We happened to encounter the Saturday market, which extends beyond the city center square to the surrounding streets. We wandered around and saw the usual fruits, vegetables, flowers, bread, and clothing, as well as several stalls selling cheese and fried fish. Dutch cheese is truly famous, with so many varieties and unique flavors.

🛶 You might not realize that beneath the city center of Den Bosch lies an entire medieval underground canal system called the Binnendieze. These canals were originally natural rivers, but in an era without running water, water had many uses: not only for drinking, but also for firefighting, brewing beer, washing clothes, and even serving as the city's drainage system!

As the city expanded, these canals were enclosed within the city walls. Because the city was so crowded and they wanted to preserve the canals, many buildings were built directly over them, resulting in this amazing "under-the-buildings" experience!

We took a small boat, gliding behind and even underneath the city's buildings. As our guide explained the history, he'd tell us, "You're right under this museum/apartment/church!" So cool! This is also the only place in the world where you can sail under a church.

I've always loved boat trips. Bruges, Venice, and Amsterdam all have their own unique charm, but this time, I was quietly cruising beneath the city, along its historic waterways. It was like entering a water maze. It was my first experience, and it was truly unique and adventurous!

🍩 Den Bosch also has a famous dessert called Bossche Bol. It's a puff larger than a fist, covered in chocolate and filled with fresh cream. I think it's perfect with coffee—not too sweet, but I've become accustomed to Belgian desserts, so my sweetness standards might be off. 🤣 I heard there's only one old shop that has the authentic recipe, and they often have long lines!

Although it wasn't my first time here, it was still fascinating to visit again after a while! This time, I visited the magnificent cathedral, stumbled into some incredibly beautiful alleyways, had a surprise boat ride, and enjoyed delicious sushi and local desserts. I realized how fascinating this city is!

If you're near the Netherlands or Belgium, you should definitely visit if you have the chance!

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