The partner program is canceled. The details of the trips are still available for interested congress attendees. Charges will be refunded.
Wednesday, May 21th, 2003: Maastricht
In the "Sint Pietersberg", a hill south of Maastricht, cutting marl as building material created a vaste labyrinth of passages. It is a curious experience to wander (of course accompanied by a guide) over the bottom of an ancient sea. The walls and ceilings still show how the "blockbreakers" worked. The walls contain many interesting inscription and drawings, some of which are very old. Warm clothing is advised because the temperature in the caves is always around 10 Celsius. After the cave visit a lunch will be used in Maastricht.
The best way to get acquainted with this city is a walk through the old centre. Don't miss the beautiful Basilica of Sint Servaas, the Stokstraat district, the old city walls, several parks, and the well-known Vrijthof. Or just go shopping and visit one of the large number of art galeries.
Of course, our guide will inform you during the whole day about the city and help you to find your way during the afternoon.
A visit to the "white town" Thorn.
After the bus transfer, this day starts with coffee plus "Limburg Vlaai".
Wandering through this 1000-year old town, one gets the impression the historical Thorn is the present. The monastery and abby church played an important role. The Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque influences are unique in Dutch architecture.
During the tour a lunch will be served, followed by an exclusive organ concert in the church.
A unique trip (sailing combined with a short walk) with a "whisperboat" takes you through the small coves and channels of the Biesbosch National Park. This authentic reed barge, driven by a solar-powered machine, sails silently with a draught of only 35 cm. After boarding, we start with coffee with a "biesbosch flap". The trip offers the opportunity to enjoy the unique flora and fauna of this beautiful wetland.
Specialezed naturalists will be our guide.
After return to the Hank harbour, we will use a typical Brabant coffee table (incl sandwiches).
