Rotterdam, the second largest city in the Netherlands, which rose from the ashes after devastation in the World War II, is renowned for its rich architecture, the largest port in Europe, cultural and educational institutions and its thriving night life. H E Stella Kloth, Ambassador of the Netherlands in Oman, recommends this city for tourists from the sultanate which shares a similar maritime history

Well known for its majestic architecture, its illustrious maritime history, efficient water management, emphasis on ecology and conservation, and an extremely friendly populace, Rotterdam – the second largest city in the Netherlands – is one of most beckoning destinations in Europe to visit this time of the year.

With a pleasant climate of around 20º C, June to September is considered the best time to visit Rotterdam as most of the festivals of tourist interest take place during this season. From enjoying a harbour cruise to visiting the Rotterdam Zoo, from a trip to the fascinating Kinderdijk Windmill Village to enjoying food tasting or rooftop tours, there are numerous activities for the family to enjoy together in this vibrant city.

“Rotterdam has a rich maritime history. This city was founded in the early 13^th century when there was a dam constructed on the river Rotte and that’s also where the name of the city Rotterdam comes from. It has been a seafaring city since then,” said H E Stella Kloth, Ambassador of the Netherlands in Oman, in a free-wheeling tete-a-tete to showcase Rotterdam as an endearing tourist destination for tourists from Oman.

“The maritime history of the Netherlands and Oman goes back over 400 years when Dutch vessels which went to the east to Indonesia, stopped in Oman for mutual trade in frankincense, herbs and spices. That was the foundation of Rotterdam becoming a port and it is this rich maritime history which has made ties between Oman and the Netherlands stronger,” H E Kloth said, pointing out that the Port of Rotterdam does have a presence in the Port of Sohar as a 50 per cent share holder. And the frequent visits of the Mayor of Rotterdam Ahmed Aboutaleb to Sohar Port also shows the strong relations between both countries, she said.

Regarding the places of interest for tourists from Oman, H E Kloth said there are numerous guided tours to various ports in the city as well as trips by water taxis which take people across the length and breadth of the city. The Windmills of Kinderdijk are also a big draw as they showcase how the water levels are maintained for agricultural purposes as well as to prevent flooding.

Rotterdam is also known as a symbol of modern architecture. After WWII, the city had to be rebuilt practically from the ashes and this was used as an opportunity to give it a new look, so to say. While Amsterdam is known for its historic significance, Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture and brand new skyline and it is home to some of the most famous Dutch architects.

Of particular significance is the iconic Erasmus Bridge which is really a sight to behold in Rotterdam. Also, the Euromast is also a very tall building (185m high) with a revolving restaurant on top which provides a stunning view of the city all around.

Rotterdam is also famous for its museum park which has a string of major museums within one locale, including the most popular Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen where visitors can browse through the history of Western art from the Middle Ages to the present day.

“People of Rotterdam also love different types of cuisine because Rotterdam is a multi-cultural city. There are 180 nationalities in one city – so its like a melting pot and the food prepared here has many varied influences,” H E Kloth said, adding, “If you go to the Markthal in Rotterdam – an indoor food market – you can taste food from all those different cultures under one roof. You can also do regular shopping – its like a big souq!”

With regard to the popular cuisine of the Netherlands, she said, “The Netherlands does not have any particular signature dish but as we have been influenced by many cultures, being a seafaring nation, some people like the Suriname kitchen and the Indonesian kitchen which are more spicy cuisines.” Some popular dishes include Kibbeling (fried fish), Raw Herring, Poffertjes (small puffy pancakes) and Stroopwafel (syrup waffle cookies), though fusion cooking with local produce is very popular in Rotterdam, she added.

“Rotterdam has a lot of ‘green buildings’ and now, from June, they have what is called ‘Rooftop walks’ which take you from office buildings to department stores to experience what the city looks like from another level,” H E Kloth said, adding that by 2030 Rotterdams plans to become a ‘circular city’ by having proper waste management and recycling systems. There is also a ‘floating farm’ in the city which is of great tourist interest.

About entertainment options, a lot of festivals, open air concerts and movie screenings take place from June onwards – also a Jazz Festival in July – which draws a large number of tourists. In early September, they also have ‘harbour days’ when there are a lot of activities and demonstrations conducted at the harbour when people can visit huge ships docked at the harbour.

There are also a lot of amusement/waterparks as well as beaches which are a big draw while the horticulture expo in September – Floriade Expo 2022 – which happens once every ten years, is also a very popular event in Rotterdam. This year, the expo has a theme of ‘Growing Green Cities’ all in line with climate adaptation.

H E Kloth, who had been to Oman ten years ago, says she had been totally amazed by the country because of its warm hospitality, beautiful landscapes, excellent infrastructure, ease of travelling around and rich cultural history. “I was then on a holiday and I thought it would be wonderful to be posted here some day. And here I am! I truly enjoy living here and exploring the country during the breaks with my family, from going snorkeling and camping in the mountains to visiting Bar al Hikman where we undertook an annual counting of migratory birds in winter.