A guide to Urk, this is our second vlog (video blog) about Urk, a small fishing town in the "bible belt" of The Netherlands that still maintains its past traditions. More at secretsofaworldtraveller.com/2015/06/07/city-full-of-old-traditions/ Urk is a typical city were traditions from past still stand strong today. Especially on days like Urkerdag or Vlaggetjesdag people dress up in traditional clothing and perform chores and other things like they did back in the day. Urk is a very religious city and almost all inhabitants are or were fishermen. One of the traditions that still is going strong on a daily basis is men wearing golden earrings with ships on the waves. Some of them also have an earring with their name in the other ear. This tradition stems from back in the day when men from Urk drowned while at sea they would get a proper burial paid for by the city if they had gold in their ears. On days like Urkerdag or Vlaagetjesdag you can eat smoked salmon, smoked eel, fried kibbeling, salted raw herring and so on. But you can also buy things for your boat, old jewelry, cutlery, plates, and other knick-knacks. It is amazing to get a glance of this otherwise so closed community. While we were there we found out what Urk means and where it comes from. Urk used to be an island, until the former Zuiderzee became the lake IJsselmeer. It’s best known as a fishing village. At the harbor there is always loads of activity going on. You enjoy the action from a distance on one of the many terraces. The same harbor also offers all kinds of water sports opportunities. Highlights of Urk Urk's history goes back over one thousand years. Visit the old village and you can still feel the history it holds. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings by walking through the old village or from the water by boat. It’s highly recommended to eat some fresh fish in the harbor. You can also enjoy excellent fish dishes at one of the local restaurants. The nearby eel farm and a trip over the lake with the tourist line to Enkhuizen are also highly recommended. Visit Urk Urk is a small village with a great history, ideal for lovely walks. Charming shops, museums, beach, harbor and pool are within walking distance. Do note that the tourist line between Enkhuizen and Urk only sails in summertime. Most inhabitants of Urk consider Sunday a day of rest, so it’s best to visit Urk on weekdays or on a Saturday. Facts via Holland.com Website: secretsofaworldtraveller.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/secretsofaworldtraveller Twitter: twitter.com/SWorldTraveller Google Plus: plus.google.com/+Secretsofaworldtravellerofficial

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