Bruges
Categories: holidays
Date: 21 December 2007 02:24:04
As with every place I visited, Bruges exceeded my expectations. This was my first visit to Belgium, and a big thank you to my friend Annette who suggested Bruges. Brussels now being only 2 hours from London via Eurostar, and Bruges another hour or so, it is easy to take a short two day break. The Eurostar trip was very pleasant and comfortable, and a great alternative to the plane for such a short trip. The Belgians also have a rather interesting, though incomprehensible to me, ad for Eurostar: any suggestions appreciated.
Bruges is truly a magnificent and picturesque city. Much like my visit in 2003 to the German city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, I was simply in awe of the various fountains, beautiful buildings, city gates, the streets and the various items of religious art that seem to decorate each street corner [I take it Bruges was (is?) a Catholic city], it is such a beautiful city to wander around. There is also the occasional odd statue. And I cannot forget the "Urinoirs".
Then there are the two main squares in the city, and the buildings that surround them:
One of the most moving experiences of my entire trip was when I visited the Basilica of the Holy Blood and, as part of a service, was able to touch the relic containing Christ's Blood and say a prayer. Taking such things on faith, it was, for me, an extremely moving and profound experience. As I mentioned on my Manchester travel entry, I will have a post at a later date about my various religious experiences: particularly those at shrines.
From the holy to gluttony, I ate very well, enjoying fine meals [mussels and fries were eagerly consumed]. The food in Bruges was simply delicious. And, of course, I did try the occasional [ha!] chocolate treat.
There was a Snow & Ice Sculpture exhibition at Bruges railway station, so before I headed back to Brussels I took a quick look. A cold, very cold, but amazing exhibit. From wizards to snails [left] to dwarfs to a movie theatre and even coffins, everything and everything was covered. Also covered was my behind, with a mat, as I slid down the ice slippery-dip. I am 30. I really am.
I had just over an hour in Brussels before I left, so it was a quick rush around to see the sights: and of course I did have to see the Mannequin Pis.
A truly great two days. And after two more days in London, my holiday was over. And I was very, very content. I had seen more than I had expected, and I had experiences of history and nature beyond any of my expectations. Thank you again to all the dear friends, and new friends, who put me up, and put up with me. And thank you to all of you who travelled near or far to meet me: it was a true pleasure and joy. And I look forward to, God willing, seeing you again one day in the not-too-distant future.