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Giethoorn's history goes back to around 1200 when Franciscan monks settled in the area. In the marsh lands peat was formed and when the settlers started to use the peat, canals were dug for transport. Big areas became lakes, many of them not deeper than three, four feet.

This idyllic town has, essentially, no roads or cars. The only access to the area's quaint houses and public buildings is by using its beautiful canals or walking across over some 176 wooden arch bridges. The population is about 2,600, with island homes backing straight onto the water highways - perfect for ice skating in winter when the water freezes over.

It sounds and looks like an awesome place to at least vacation, and maybe even to move. It’s now on my, “bucket list.”

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