Hello there, Rostock

We met our guide Ulf who was a local of Rostock. The first thing on our itinerary was a river cruise. We hopped on the boat (not very small, mind you.. it even had free wifi!!) and off we went. There were 2 tour groups on board the boat so both the guides took turns to share information as we rode on the river.

This ship builder is building a very large ship for the Genting group 

When we reached Rostock, we hopped onto a bus which drove us to the first stop, the microbewery.

 We were first given a brief introduction on how beer is made.

 Then we headed to the back garden for some beer and pretzels (and Coke for Evan).

My boys with their pretzels and "poison" 

We then hopped onto the bus which drove us to the city area. Just across the street from where we were was the St. Mary's Church.

The beautiful building

Front of the church

Stained glass of the church which was a later addition

Our guide Ulf spent a lof of time explaining the features of this Astronomical clock. It was so fascinating. 

Organ inside the church

It was very strange that the inside of the church was very cool despite the heat outside. After the church, we walked to the city center where we were given 30 minutes to wander around. Unfortunately, there wasn't much to see as it was a Sunday and most shops were closed.

Brunnen der Lebensfreude:

There were many families with little children enjoying the cool water from this fountain.

We later gathered near the fountain to continue with the tour. Next stop was the University of Rostock. We were shared some history of the university and also about the current university education.

We then walked to the nearby convent - Convent of the Holy Cross (now a part of the university) where Ulf shared some history on why it was built.  

 Went back and got ready for our daily feast in Allegro:

 Stanley bear had a near friend from the Tree House, Sally: