Brilliant Bruges
In and around Europe
I had visited Bruges several times over the years, but always on the to or from another city. Frustrated by this, I decided to spend a whole week in this beautiful town, to see beyond the obvious tourist traps.
Using the Internet I found myself a lovely B&B and booked my tickets on the Eurostar. It proved to be a very cost effective holiday and, thanks to exceptionally good weather, one that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Whilst I was there I also took the opportunity to visit some of Belgium's sights and momuments relating to the First World War. In particular I was able to visit the memorial that features my Grandfather's brother, who was one of the many young men who never returned. It was a day that I will never forget and will look back on with a mixture of sadness and pride.
Route taken and entries by Real Traveler Kerry Taylor
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1
Berkshire to Bruges ... by Train
I had meticulously planned the journey to Bruges, but knew the timing would be tight. Unfortunately I’d mentioned this to Mum yesterday, so every t... Continue reading »
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2
Bruges : Finding my Feet
After a lovely breakfast of fresh bread rolls, jam, cold meat, cheese, fruit, pain au chocolat and lashings of rather weak tea, I started my week o... Continue reading »
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3
Bruges : A Slowboat to Damme
I have another good breakfast today, including a lovely soft boiled egg along with all the other items. Amongst the fruit is a banana so I cheekily... Continue reading »
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4
Bruges : Exploring the Canal Ring
This morning I decide to follow the canals around the town centre to the West. As I get to Gentpoort, two very large working barges pass me by. The... Continue reading »
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5
Bruges : Reaching New Heights
I’m sure my breakfasts are getting bigger. Yesterday I had an omelette (which I dislike) but no ham or cheese as Nicky had realised I didn’t really... Continue reading »
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6
In Flanders Field
I’m up early this morning to grab a quick breakfast before I join the Flander’s Fields trip. I only have 15 minutes, but Nicky has kind... Continue reading »
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7
German Cemetery, Langemarck
Our first stop is the German war cemetery at Langemarck. Also called the Students’ Cemetery; 44,000 German soldiers or, to be more accurate,... Continue reading »
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8
Tyne Cot Memorial, Passchendale
From Langemark we travel on to the Tyne Cot Memorial at Passchendaele, passing Vancouver Corner on the way. A memorial to the Canadian war dead cal... Continue reading »
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9
Mount Kemmel
Back in the car we head for the Mountains … Belgian style! We head out to Kammel Burg or Mount Camel. The name is misleading on two fronts.... Continue reading »
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10
Talbot House, Poperinge
Our next stop is in a town called Poperinge. Talbot House was an everyman club for soldiers, offering a little rest bite from the horror of the Wes... Continue reading »
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11
Iper
Next we head off to Iper, formerly know as Ypres. On the way we pass by Hellfire Corner, a name I recognise, but I’m not sure why. My guess is that... Continue reading »
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12
Diksmuide (Trench of Death)
There is one last stop today and I cannot say it is something I was looking forward to. We drive along a canal to one of the most brutal and bitter... Continue reading »
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13
Bruges : Shopping and Frits
I have been keeping it in mind that today would be shopping day. Time to buy all those souvenirs you feel bound to bring home. However I’m less kee... Continue reading »
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14
Bruges to Berkshire ... by Train, Again!
Today is different. I’m amazed to see that it isn’t hot and sunny. In fact I can barely see through a fairly thick fog. Apparently this is the norm... Continue reading »
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