In Bruges

Words cannot do Bruges justice. It is truly like a fairytale and I can't imagine a place so charming in all aspects: architecture, shops, city layout, people, and the CHOCOLATE! Prices too were refreshingly reasonable, especially after coming from exorbitant Switzerland (couldn't help but notice the people are better looking too!). Independent chocolatiers number every other storefront and there were at least two extensive Christmas fairs still on, selling everything from bouncy toys that suspend from the ceiling to 4euro bratwurst the size of your head. Everyone speaks great English too, much like Amsterdam, which is what I was expecting in Switzerland but failed to find. Kept looking for Colin, but he never materialized. We did stand behind a group of Dubs in line to climb the belfry, however..

Everyone in hospitality (and we found this throughout Belgium), from the tourist office to the hotel, was extremely helpful and friendly. We stayed at the Ibis Centrum (LOVE these hotels - such a great value!! Wish we had them in the US..) and spent the afternoon eating and losing ourselves in the winding labyrinth of narrow cobblestoned streets. We ducked into a cozy tavern for our first taste of true Belgian beer, starting with the Leffe Blonde. Quite tasty, indeed! The one thing I could lose in Belgium: smoking in the pubs/cafes. Blegh. And of course we couldn't leave without patronizing one of the fine, outstanding Belgium chocolatiers. We chose one near our hotel and hand selected our pieces of sin for 5euro for a 250gm box. Most accommodating, patient, and pleasant chocolate-hostess who served us, I must add! I will definitely be returning to Bruges.

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