Located in the longest commercial street of The Netherlands, the Nieuwe Binnenweg, Vermeyden is a true gem and a foodies paradise. They have the best of the best from all over Europe and the world; their passion and respect for ingredients is truly inspiring.

Once you step into the store you will notice why I like it so much! They have baskets of freshly baked breads, cheeses displayed with care and that are exhibited proudly, an area where you will find exquisite confections made out chocolate, shelves with everything from olive oil to lime curd and of course their well stocked wine cellar.

I like to order a sandwich from their deli whenever I visit Vermeyden. There I can choose my own bread, cheese, meats and toppings, however, they also offer amazing flavor combinations that are to die for. My favorite sandwich from the flavor combination is the pancetta, goat’s cheese and honey; the beef Carpaccio with arugula and parmesan is a favorite of my husband.

Vermeyden is my one stop shop to get all of my special ingredients, from cheese to meats, gourmet pasta and coffee, here I can find it all and the quality is exquisite. Also, if you don’t know what to choose or need some advice, the staff will be more than willing to help out. So, the next time that you are in the Nieuwe Binnenweg, take the time to discover Vermeyden, you will not regret it!

Delfshaven, a very famous and authentic harbor in the Netherlands, had its annual ‘open house days’. And so me and my son ended up at the Pilgrimfather’s Church. This church was originally catholic, but now houses a Christian community, ancestors of the American pilgrims. Their arrival is still celebrated on Thanksgiving Day.

Because of this Catholic origin, the church is more decorated then most Christian churches. Well, they told me so, since I have not been in many churches. Especially their leaded lights are very pretty, showing scenes from the big book and some about the Pilgrimfather’s History. Especially two high leaded lights in the back which show the six days of creation are beautiful.

I haven’t been raised religiously and never went to any divine service. Still… I am a believer. I always wanted to go to a service on Christmas Eve and when I asked about it, I was invited to come on a Sunday too. My son and I were both interested, so now I do come on Sunday sometimes. The atmosphere is very warm and open. Besides the relaxed atmosphere which remind me of meditation, I very much enjoy the singing.

Because of it’s roots as being the ancestors of the American pilgrims, it’s kind of international. Although the services are in Dutch, they often organize an open house. They also have a big organ, which is played a lot during service and also special performances during the week.

Check the calendar for activities and open church.