Europe and the United Kingdom, Historical sites, history, Museums, Opinion, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

National Monument Oranjehotel

On a cloudy Tuesday near the sea, with seagulls squawking overhead, we headed to the National Monument Oranjehotel, Scheveningen's prison. About 25000 people were detained here during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. In this museum, the cells and artifacts tell stories of despair and pain, hope and perseverance. Trigger warning: This article discusses World War II history, which includes mentions of death, torture, and violence. I also discuss Hitler’s rise to power and the formation of a one-party state through legal means.

Europe and the United Kingdom, Family, Historical sites, Museums, Opinion, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

The British Museum revisited

On our summer 2025 trip to London, we once again visited the British Museum. Spanning nearly the breadth of human history, the museum houses over 2 million artifacts- including some that involve controversy. This post contains updated photos, along with a brief synopsis of the controversy associated with the Parthenon sculptures.

Europe and the United Kingdom, Family, Historical sites, history, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, writing

Paris

On a short spring break trip to Paris, France, the Cranky Camper and Co visit some of the city's most famous and historic sights.

coffee, Europe and the United Kingdom, Family, Historical sites, history, Kids, Opinion, outdoors, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Slot Loevestein

The fourth post in our Netherlands series sends us to Slot Loevestein. This medieval castle played a role in the defense of the Dutch Waterline up through World War II. We spent the day as a family, exploring the castle and the scenic towns surrounding it, while learning about its rich history.

Brunch, coffee, Europe and the United Kingdom, Family, Food, Historical sites, history, Lunch, Museums, Opinion, Shopping, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Delft

After a late night in Amsterdam, the Cranky Campers spend a low-key day in the historic canal city of Delft. While the summer weather thwarted some of our plans, we still had a wonderful time exploring, eating, and shopping in Delft.