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Augustow (northeast Poland)
 The Augustow Canal is a cross-border canal of Belarus and Poland, built between 1823-1839. There are only three canals like this in the world; the other two are in the UK and Sweden. Prussia introduced high custom duties on Poland and Lithuania goods and the canal was built to bypass Prussian custom duties.

The canal is a direct link between two rivers, the Vistula and the Biebrza. Thus goods could be shipped to the Baltic Sea. They built 22 locks and 22 sluices (a water channel controlled at its head by a gate). It is now a tourist attraction and boating adventure. Although I would not want to go into Belarus - my guide said it has not been kept up in that area. I hired an English speaking guide and she suggested I stay in Augustow which now I agree was the place to stay.  My hotel was right on the Netta River and a short walk into town. Those who owned boats were able to park their boats close to their rooms. I joined an evening cruise on the Netta River going into Necko Lake and Rospuda Lake. Netta River Viking tourist rides The viking boat owners and their guides were dressed in period costumes. Along the Netta River was this monument for Freedom from Russia and dedicated to those who lost their lives during WWII. Flowers and candles were left from August 1 - celebration of Freedom Day.  Notice that the electric lines are not on wooden poles but cement poles that look like an upside down V. 
The viking boat look so funny ! It must be quite an entertainment... Nice serie of shots.

August 30, 2014 at 2:17 PM 
Intriguing series of photos. The boat is fascinating and the cement poles for the wires must be unique.

August 30, 2014 at 3:34 PM 
A lovely reflection Dian - the scenery invites further exploration. Thank you for sharing this part of the world with us (and for visiting my blog)

August 30, 2014 at 3:47 PM 
fabulous phtos and thanks for sharing!

August 30, 2014 at 5:53 PM 
That´s a nice place and the reflections are gorgeous!

August 30, 2014 at 6:51 PM 
The Viking Ride would be such fun! And the tourist boat looks very modern and new. I love these weeping willows!! I do a post on them every year.

August 30, 2014 at 7:35 PM 
Love this viking boat.

August 31, 2014 at 2:32 AM 
I love the country feel of these pics, Ruth. Getting around by boat must be a daily adventure in itself!


August 31, 2014 at 6:25 AM 
Lovely shots of the canal. I guess Vikings must be an important part of Poland's history. I had never thought of that!

August 31, 2014 at 8:23 AM 
seems to be a fascinating place

August 31, 2014 at 12:22 PM 
Lovely photos Ruth.We found what we saw of Poland to be wonderful.

August 31, 2014 at 12:40 PM 
Everyone everywhere hates to pay taxes and duties!

New Shadow Shot

August 31, 2014 at 5:12 PM 
A beautiful place.

August 31, 2014 at 5:57 PM 
The Viking boats are unique. The canals looks like a great mode of transportation. Beautiful views, Ruth.


September 1, 2014 at 5:39 PM 
Wow-amazing and picturesque all rolled up in one!
 M.E. Masterson said...

ooooo love the viking boat and costumes too! what a neat tour you are taking us on...since I don't do planes, well we won't go there, this is a nice way to tour through someone elses eyes!

September 2, 2014 at 10:01 AM