Solo Travel Bruges
The cobblestoned streets and mesmerizing architecture of Bruges in Belgium have been truly captivating. The enticing old town sits in the middle of the modern city and is a step back through time. On my first evening in the old town, I discovered this quaint bar and terrace, where I have returned to this evening to reminisce. The town is everything I hoped it would be, and more. Sitting here, on the banks of a star-lit canal, sipping one of the 500 unique local beers to try, I found the reason why Belgium is known as the Beer Capital of the world. Between this, the local chip shops and their hundreds of delicious sauces, and scrumptious fresh waffles with stacks of toppings to taste, I will leave Bruges with delighted taste buds and a satisfied stomach. I have discovered so much culture and extraordinary architecture in between the delicious delectables I have been enjoying.
On my first day of adventure, I picked up a free USE-IT map from one of the boutiques and began site-seeing. After walking through a residential area, thinking I was lost, I stumbled upon the Hof de Jonghe, a lusciously green park brimming with sheep, in the middle of the city! Sitting among the bahhh-ing sheep figuring out where to head next was not what I expected from this ancient little town.
Later that day, I stumbled on a harpist performing for all those around, across from Our Lady Church. The beautiful music and magical setting were delightfully captivating.
I was headed on to the Old St. John’s Hospital to explore the oldest surviving hospital building in Europe. Some of the wards were still open and had an eerie feeling about them. This was where nuns and monks used to care for the sick centuries ago.
In the Basilica of Holy Blood, I saw the blood of Jesus Christ, bought to the city in the 12th century by Thierry of Alsace, after the crusades. The vial now sits on a pedestal inside the church and I understand why believers come here to worship.
From here I realized I had to learn more about the history of the city. Joining in on one of Bruges free walking tours, I was able to do just this. With the tour, I visited all the city’s historical gems. Museums, buildings, and cathedrals filled my day and left me in awe. One day, I hired a bicycle to ride through the bumpy old streets, along the canals, and visit the ring of windmills around Bruges.
The canals surrounding the Old Town were an easy track to follow and, with the wind in my hair, a peaceful way to enjoy this scenic gemstone. The Half Moon Brewery tour allowed me to learn more about beer, and how all these different varieties are made. Learning the history of the craft and the city has allowed me to truly appreciate the beer wall in front of me, and understand the beauty that is Bruges.
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