Country Vacations & Resorts

I watched the movie, “In Bruges” last weekend and although it had a bit of a slow start, it ended up being one of the best movies I’ve seen for some time. With Ralph Fiennes, how could I go wrong?

Seemed like a good time to do a little research on this beautiful Flemish city.

First news wasn’t good…comments on “overcrowding”, “expensive”, and “little to do,” might be off-putting to many travelers. But dig deeper for more info on this UNESCO World Heritage site, Belgium’s most popular tourist destination, and you’ll find plenty to see and do.

With it’s picturesque market squares, canals, whitewashed buildings, and medieval architecture, Bruges evokes the past while renovations to the historic buildings maintain them for future visitors. I won’t say too much about the bell tower, or it’s 366 steps to the top, for fear of giving away anything from the movie, but a visual is worth a lot of words…

Visit in Spring or Summer to enjoy the daffodils and the carillon chimes on a warm evening’s stroll or visit in Winter and skate on the canals!

Visit the Groeningemuseum, home to Bruges prized collection of 14th to 20th century art. Wander the Huidenvettersplein (Tanner’s Square), with it’s varied selection of fine restaurants and shops. Watch lace-makers at the Kantcentrum. How about a museum devoted to chocolate? Visit the Choco-Story to find out more. Beer more to your liking? Visit the De Halve Mann (Half Moon) Brewery or feast your eyes at the Diamond Museum.

Capital of the Belgian province of West Flanders, Bruges, also known as The “Venice of the North”, is in the northwest end of the country, approximately one hour’s drive from Brussels.

Travel is what you make it. Do your research and time your visit to Bruges, and to the scenic country of Belgium, and don’t miss all this country has to offer. Even if you can’t make it to Bruges, you may still enjoy the movie…