Summer heat wave

The summer heat wave continues without abate here in Europe. What we Aussies would call a standard summer has thrown the continent into a spin. A colleague remarked the other day that it has never been this hot for such a prolonged period in the Netherlands and that temperatures in excess of 35 degrees are seldom seen.

This year is the first in twenty or so where there has been two heat waves (defined as 3 consecutive days > 30 degrees) in one month for 20 odd years. In fact, the temperatures recorded during these past weeks are some of the highest ever recorded.

What does this mean for day to day life? People rushing for the terraces come mid afternoon, people sunning themselves at every opportunity and of course, countless cold beers. We have taken advantage of the fantastic weather with visits to some of the city beaches (more like bars on sand), walks in the park and the occasional trip on the boat which is a fantastic way to catch up with friends and pass time.

Here are some snaps of our latest cruise on the canals:


Claudia, Finn & I aboard HARM


Claud, Finn & Jan Joost


The crew chilling out