Enjoying Belgium

Hello,

Nancy and I have had some very enjoyable days in Belgium. Yesterday, we got up very early to catch a train to Brugges. There we were picked up by a tour group to go on a tour of Ypres and Flanders fields. We visited many commonwealth memorial sites, and cemeteries. We had a very informative tour guide and a small group, including a Canadian couple from Montreal and a family of three from Newcastle, England. It was a long day, but interesting and sombre. Two sites that stood out in paricular was the Canadian Memorial at "Vancouver Corner", and the cemetery site, which was originally the dressing station run by Dr.John McCrae(Flander's Fields).
After the tour, we planned on going back to Brussels, but luckly decided last minute to head into Brugge. This turned out to be a great idea, as it was a very beautiful city. It is known as the Venice of the north, with canals running through various parts of the city centre. Initially we were going to head back the next day, but there were chances of rain and we felt we were simply didn't have the time to train back to the city for another trip.
Instead, we decided to spend Monday in Brussels. A city that has surprised me in a very positive way. I expected it to be like a lay over before we reached Paris, however it has been a very pleasant surprise, with its beautiful cobble stone walk ways, historic buildings and many outdoor patios. A benefit to the experience is how friendly and helpful the staff has been at our hotel. The Pantone has been very great, where our front desk will do anything for us. Our hotel room has been a real luxury, spacious sitting area, a huge terrace balcony and air conditioning. We decided to stay an extra night, leaving for Paris on Tuesday from Brussels.
Unfortunately the galleries and museums are closed here on Mondays, so in the morning we plan to visit the Gallery Beaux Arts before we leave for Paris.

Until next post
- JR and Nancy