Bilma
Small oasis town on the northeast side of Niger.
Agadez
Agadez is the center of the Sahara, a town of a mostly Muslim population, landmarked by the tall Agadez Mosque, also known as the Grande Mosquée d’Agadez. “The gateway to the desert” was also the center for the caravan trade. Nowadays it’s the migration hub for people hoping for a better future in Europe. Agadez Mosque was built in 1515 when the city was captured by the Songhai Empire. The 27 m tall minaret has served for centuries to watch out for enemies and invited caravans to Agadez.
Waal River
I love running along the Waal river because it gives beautiful views. My mother used to swim across the river as a child. The Waal plays an important role in the economy and history of Nijmegen during floods and wars. Operation Market Garden during WWII focused on capturing the two bridges across the Waal. Now there are several bridges that connect the city with the other side of the river.
De Waagh
De Waagh (weigh house) is special to me because my grandfather used to have his office here when he was director of local government structures. It was originally used to weigh butter in the Middle Ages and to guarantee fair trade. The current building was rebuilt in 1612-13 in Dutch Renaissance style. It has been used for several local government functions throughout the ages but now it is a restaurant with beautiful terrace on the Grote Markt (Big Market),
