Bruges, Belgium

This past weekend we flew up to Belgium and explored Bruges, Ghent, and Brussels. First off was Bruges. This town is absolutely magnificent; Dan calls is the most beautiful town or city he has ever been to.

As you walk around Bruges, you almost feel as if you are in a Thomas Kinkade painting. Often compared to Venice, Bruges has an intricate canal system that acts as roads. Quaint buildings made of brick and stone with perfectly manicured gardens line the canals. Who needs ducks in the canals when you can have elegant swans? Arched cobblestone bridges allow you to pass over the canals and into the shopping district of Bruges where we found shops selling handmade lace, fresh chocolates, frites (french fries), and warm waffles. Needless to say, the town smells incredible. And even though here were plenty of people out and about, it was quiet, as everyone was listening to the beautiful songs coming from the many belltowers around town.

We stayed at a bed and breakfast just two blocks off the main square. Our host, Livia, whipped up delicious breakfasts with fresh homemade breads and croissants topped with marmalade (her apricot/ginger was unreal), English teas, eggs from her chickens, and an assortment of cheeses. Of course, Allison was content with Livia's plain bread topped with a thick coating of
chocolate Nutella. Why can't breakfast always be like this?!

The day we arrived in Bruges was their annual festival to mark Ascencion Day. People packed the town's streets for a parade in which locals dressed up in costumes - from Egyptian Pharaohs to medieval knights. Allison was mesmerized by the colorful parade which included a huge assortment of animals including horses, sheep, and even camels!

Enjoy the pictures below, which unfortunately do not do the beauty of Bruges justice!