Dad wakes early this morning to capture the sunrise and the vapour trails, a rare opportunity to capture on camera.

This morning we arrive in Cologne Germany famous for its awe-inspiring cathedral.    Koln, as it is known in German, is Germany's fourth largest city and sits on the banks of the Rhine and in the middle of the ancient East-West trading routes. Cologne Cathedral was built in homage to the relics of the Three Kings (also known as the Three Wise Men).   We viewed the inside and it’s many spectacular glass windows.

In the early 18th century, Johann Maria Farina, an Italian living in Cologne, created a fragrance. He named it Eau de Cologne ("water from Cologne") after his new home. Over the next century, the fragrance became increasingly popular and you may remember it when viewing our photos as 4711. We didn’t leave without a small purchase from the fragrance souvenir shop.

Tonight we were graciously welcomed to Namedy Castle, the home of Princess Heide von Hohenzollern and her family (including her four dogs – one that was called Annabel the pug). We received an official welcome in the courtyard while served canapes and champagne, a warm welcome into the Princess home – with a comment of my home is your home tonight, she then gave us free time to explore the manicured garden and house itself.   A gong chimed for us to proceed to the mirrored dining room for dinner. The family are great lovers of classical music and in between courses we were treated to a classical piano recital by a young master of music.   

At the end of the night, we say our goodbyes to the Princess, she clasps your hand to wish you a safe and happy holiday, and we thank her for the kind welcome and beautiful special night.   Cherie instead of shaking her hand, courtesy’s (because she had never met a princess before) the princess says you are so beautiful, and takes her face in her two hands and gives her a kiss on the cheek, it was such a moving gesture for Mum, Dad and I to see.