If ever there were a fairytale, it would be Bruges . . . the sort of place only dreamt about in romantic flits and fleets of the mind; the very place that wraps the senses in a silky weave of entrapment, for its beauty is unmatched, and its allure, boundless.
A city, yes—and yet—Bruges is really a whole other world in and of itself. Its incredible structures surrounded by waters, are connected to and fro by over 80 single bridges, only lending to the mystique and intrigue of this city.
Bridges broken apart, yet connected by the trickling waters, sailed along by alabaster swans and boats of onlookers — curious, intrigued, infatuated — taking note of the gentle, draping trees that lean into the waters, the ancient windows, not a single one untouched by the flirtation of decadent, decorative mouldings, and care. Rooftops stepping up into the clouds, and the city, alit in golden light, as the evening falls . . .
Bruges is the capital and the largest city of the province of West Flanders, located in the Flemish Region of Belgium, in the Northwest of the country. The city’s total population is 117,073 — perhaps not as large as one might have thought — but yet, this relatively small city certainly does not lack in points of interest, nor kind and welcoming inhabitants.
With more romance, more beauty, and more history and splendour than a storybook, Bruge’s elegance and grace is left unchanged throughout the centuries, [and despite all modern technologies and world changes], for this city of heritage delights in its history and uniqueness.
One can explore the city on foot or bike, boat or even carriage tours. Seemingly unending treasures are to be discovered, pathways to explore, and picturesque views to take in and savour.
And savour you will! For the lover of fine foods, art and culture — Bruges is certainly sure to please. Discover masterpieces painted centuries ago, and fine cuisine created with care and the utmost attention; there are markets to wander through, and chocolate and beer-tasting on a sunny afternoon.
And so, for today, we set off to the impossibly romantic and always beautiful, Bruges, Belgium . . .
{a little lesson in belgian waffles}
There are 3 main kinds of Belgian waffles : Liege waffles [quite common], Brussels waffles [lighter, larger and rectangular, and often enjoyed with toppings such as strawberries or ice cream], and galettes [softer, thinner and typically eaten for breakfast, sometimes topped with jam].
{a few fun facts about the city . . . }
* The city is not only famous for chocolates and beer, but also lace
* Belgians claim to have invented chips [French fries]
* Belgium produces 220,000 tonnes of chocolate per year
* In Bruges alone, one can discover over 50 chocolate shops
* The city is often referred to as “Venice of the North”
