Bruges (Belgium) | Another Strong First Impression - 24 Aug, 2023

I took this photo during the canal cruise in Amsterdam. I love the old boat, which seems to have no purpose but to keep the bicycle from being lost in the canal. Seeing this reminds me that losing a bike to the channel is likely a common phenomenon in this city.

The train to Bruges from Brussels takes me an hour. The trains in Belgium are much older than those in other countries, but trains remain one of the best travel methods. As I step out of the train station in Bruges, I immediately realize there is something different about Bruges. In the distance, I can see Saint Salvator's Cathedral. There isn't a building on site to block my view. More importantly, I am surrounded by mature trees. The green surrounding me starkly contrasts what I experienced in Brussels, and I love it!

Bruges is located in the northwest part of Belgium and is considered the Flemish capital of Belgium. Flemish people speak a version of Dutch that is regionally different from those spoken in the Netherlands. Dutch people don't consider spoken Dutch in this area as real Dutch (Flemish vs Dutch). They frequently criticized the Flemish and their dialect while I was in the Netherlands. I remember Stephan telling me he wouldn't speak Dutch in Belgium. He'd rather speak English. The two can clearly communicate, and I remember Cami and Ivo discussing some of the differences last fall.

Bruges feels great, and I can tell I will enjoy my time here! All the buildings are two or three stories tall and made of brick. It gives the city a warm, friendly feel. 

Cami is tied up today, so we will get together tomorrow. I can't wait to see her. She is a special person. I've grown fond of her, our time together, and our conversations. It was amazing to watch her confidence grow along the Camino. It will be awesome to see her in her home town.

After dropping my things at the hostel, I head out to explore Bruges. The city center is spotless, and I am surprised by the construction I see. Several streets are being rebuilt. Cobblestone roads and sidewalks are in various states of repair.

Bruges is another canal city like Amsterdam and Utrecht. However, the canals here are much smaller, and very few boats are moored permanently like in Amsterdam.

I stumble into the Grote Market (Bruges Market Square). I am immediately impressed by the Belfry of Bruges, which dominates the scene. I also realize I have found all the tourists. This part of the city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It's a beautiful day and a while since I've encountered an area like this with a great atmosphere for being. So, I grab a table at one of the restaurants and order a White Martini. I don't know what I just ordered, but it sounded refreshing, and I doubt it is a Gin Martini. A few minutes later, the waiter brings me a glass of equal parts sweet vermouth and tonic. It is delicious and perfect for enjoying the moment. It feels great to be here!

Every few minutes, I watch horse-drawn carriages pass by the square. Looking at the cobblestone, I see where the metal horseshoes have started to wear a path in the street. These little things are easy to notice when I stop and observe my surroundings. When the shade overtakes my table from behind me, about an hour later, I can feel the air getting much cooler. I settle my tab and head out in search of food. I'm craving something light and healthy. I pass countless restaurants with fried foods, pasta, and burgers. 

After returning to the hostel and changing, I found the Passion for Food restaurant near Grote Market. I ordered the chicken couscous and a Bruges Zot beer. Belgium is known for great beer, so when in Belgium, right? I ordered the Dubbel, a darker beer the local brewery offers. The owner, a gentleman my age, is the only person here. He is the owner, waiter, and chef. The simple meal is fantastic and exactly what I was looking for tonight.