Our first trip to Belgium started out cold and rainy. In fact we seriously thought about staying in and not going. But we persevered and ended up getting a later start than we originally planned.
Once again we were traveling to a new place and had no idea where we were going, and trying to translate a navigation system that spoke dutch. We realized after getting there that all of our delays we part of God’s plan. We missed a turn that ended up being a 45 minute detour. We made our way to the train/bus station, thanks to Rick Steves Best of Europe. I think we found the only free parking lot in all of Europe and a parking place in a full parking lot. We stepped out of the car and the bottom dropped out of the sky. We were standing in the train/bus station soaking wet and freezing. We got a cappuccino, found out the bus drivers were on strike and started out for the heart of the city on foot. We could tell by the architecture, and the cobble stone streets that this city was going to be a site to see.
Angus and I walked ahead hoping to beat the next torrential down pour. I turned around and Geoff was on the ground with a little old lady who had fallen. She had slipped on a curb and busted her nose. As with any head wound blood was everywhere so I scrambled for tissues and a couple of college backpackers offered us some socks to apply pressure until the ambulance got there. Geoff helped the lady hold the pressure and let her lean against him. The police came and carried the lady off and as the pulled away the skies opened up again and we ran for cover. We found shelter in a french restaurant and had one of the best meals I think I have ever had in my life, all while little wet Angus snuggled deep within our jackets.
I have way to many pictures to post, but you can see what a beautiful place this is. After all the drama from what happened that morning it turned out to be a beautiful day. Angus learned very quickly the sound of horses hooves clopping down the street and would have a fit when ever they came by. Well seeing Brugge by carriage ride was popular thing and the horse-drawn carriages would go by about every 10 to 15 minutes.
I have to say that aside from Edinburgh, Brugge was one of the most magical places I have ever been to. The waffles are amazing, the chocolate is creamier and better than you can imagine. If you ever go to Belgium, go to Brugge!
Angus sure is cute. I’m so glad you were able to take him with you!!
Lacey, I want copies of these pictures – they are beautiful.