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

The Anne Frank House

On a cloudy Sunday in Amsterdam, we paid a visit to the Anne Frank House. From the summer of 1942 through 1944, the Frank family and four companions his in the secret annex as the Nazis occupied the Netherlands. They were discovered in 1944 and sent to concentration camps in Germany. Only Otto Frank survived. To honor Anne's dreams of becoming a writer, Otto published his daughter's diaries, now translated into 75 languages and read by millions. The house was dedicated a museum in 1960 and can be visited today with timed entry tickets.

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.

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Clingendael Park

While not on too many top ten lists, Clingendael Park is a perfect place for a picnic or an evening stroll. With beautiful shade trees, walking paths, gardens, and a play space, it is a great place for a relaxed time in The Hague.

american west, breakfast, Brunch, california, Camping, coffee, dogs, Food, Hiking, Historical sites, Lunch, outdoors, Shopping, Style, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation, writing

Idyllwild, California

Tucked into the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild, California is an idyllic retreat from the desert below. With miles of nearby hiking trails, dining, shopping, and the arts, this town offers something for everyone- including a chance to meet Mayor Max and his deputies.

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

Den Haag

In this first in a six-part series, the Cranky Camper family heads to the Netherlands and stays in The Hague. Famous for being a seat of international and Dutch politics, there is much to learn, explore, and appreciate in The Hague. We also share a few practical things we learned on our visit.