Netherlands and London November 2025
I had to make a tough decision this year - I wanted to go to another European Pinball Tournament. There was the Austrian Pinball Open in the middle of September, the UK Pinball Open at the end of September, and the Dutch Pinball Open in November.
I went to the Dutch Pinball Open last year and had great fun. I did lousy because these are the best players coming from all over Europe, but they were so friendly and I was (I think) the only American there. It became my pick, especially since I could book a fairly cheap flight due to returning ON Thanksgiving (not many want to fly that day).
I also wanted to go to the Dutch Pinball Museum in Rotterdam and the M.C. Escher Museum in The Hague. After the tournament, I had 3 days left over - I could have done more Netherlands or pop to Brussels OR I COULD GO SEE STRANGER THINGS: THE FIRST SHADOW again!!!
I kept checking the theatre web site until the date I wanted opened up and I quickly snatched a first row balcony seat. This show plays on multiple levels and to see the whole thing, it's best to see it from the upper levels (in my opinion).
Of course, food tours were required all around. My first one is in Rotterdam, followed by a food/history tour by the venerable Nigel Homer of Homer's Odysseys Tours (https://homersodysseys.co.uk/), the Sherpa Food Tour in London and one in Amsterdam when I get back from London. I'm coming back one day early so I don't miss my flight home as happened in 2024 due to an airport delay. Since I return to Amsterdam early the day before my flight, I squeezed in a food tour and an English language comedy show.
But, but, but... You may ask about chocolate. Well, I have booked with Jen and her company Chocolate Ecstasy Tours (https://www.jenniferearle.com/) again. I would like to go to London Chocolate (best dark chocolate!) as well as Charbonnel & Walker (Pink Champagne Truffles). I plan to bring a big suitcase to fit my purchases. I may be trying other places as well. Jen is awesome and I highly recommend her tours.
At this time, the itinerary is complete. I can't squeeze in another thing. I just have to figure out what to eat for breakfast.
Departure date is Tuesday, November 18th. Am I excited? Ya' bet ya'!