Day 22, Sunday Sept 18th, Bruges

Today Spencer and I went to Bruges (or Brugge, depending on what language you speak). For those of you that don't know (like I didn't), Bruges is a small village in the North of Belgium (apparently made famous by some movie I've never heard of). It was all kinds of hoppin' in the 15th and 16th centuries and was a shipping hub, a financial center, all kinds of good stuff. And much of the town still looks and feels like it did back then (minus the tourists I suppose). All in all, I guess the town was exactly what I expected from a Central European village: cobblestone streets, lots of churches, etc. Glad we went, despite the fact that we had no idea what to expect.

To begin, we tried finding a restaurant that was recommended to us that had "authentic Belgian food". After a long while wandering the streets, we eventually found it, only to be closed for lunch. So, a natural second choice for lunch in Belgium is pannenkoeken, of course! We found a little whole-in-the-wall place and got our snack on. Afterwards we went to the center of town to view their largest and most famous bell tower, the Belfry. We arrived to find tons of people and a crew setting up for a rock concert. I have heard that Belgium is famous for its contradictions and lack of style and sensitivity, and I suppose a rock concert in a romantic village in front of a 500 year old church sums that up pretty well. Anyway, we intended to climb the several hundred feet to the top of the tower to take pictures of the town and what not, but there was a very long line and even a several euro fee! As such, we decided to move on to our next attraction: the brewery. This particular (now called De Halve Maan) brewery has been operational since 1546! Crazy! It was very interesting to see how the beer is made and how the recipes have changed so little since then. To top it off, the top of the brewery has a spectacular view of the town, which made up for our disappointment with the Belfry. After that was the diamond museum (not my choice, haha). Along with being a busteling financial center, Bruges was also once known for its role in the diamond trade. This (tiny and disappointing) museum was dedicated to telling that story. The story was interesting, but the museum was not. After this, we had to indulge in another Belgian stereotype: waffels! Fresh Belgian waffels covered in fresh Belgian chocolate and fresh whipped cream. So good it should be illegal! To top it off, we were on our way to dinner, so that mass of deliciousness was but an appetizer. Bound and determined to try actual Belgian food (as opposed to treats, like chocolate...so good!), we went back to t' Ganzespel (the place we tried to have lunch). Three courses of Belgian goodness including soup, salad, and veal with potatoes in cream sause. Amazing. Food is good, I love food. And I love Belgium!

Well now we are back at the hostel, enjoying our last night here by updating blogs and facebook. Unfortunately, the hostel somehow misplaced our reservation and we had to fight to get a room (not ours, mind you), and there are no sheets. Less than ideal, but I guess it is not all bad for 15 euro a night. Tomorrow we wake early for our return to Amsterdam. Travels complete =)