We arrived after our dusty train journey in the golden late afternoon light and trundled our cases along a wide avenue of trees with the river to our right. Then we came upon this beautiful medieval city, buildings nestled around the river. A bridge arches over the water in the distance and quiet swans preen themselves on the bank. The bustle of tourists is all around us and in the distance we can just catch the chime of ancient bells - slightly out of tune - ringing out from the old clock tower somewhere in the heart of the city.
Our cases rattled along behind us on the old worn cobbles and before us an elegant horse and carriage approached, the horse’s hooves ringing out on the cobbles as it trotted up past us. Navigating the roads and tourists with skill they carry their passengers between the old Dutch looking buildings and through the large open squares.
Glancing into shop windows there is lace festooned in crisp white displays and of course wonderful examples of chocolate everywhere.
Our hotel is surprisingly quiet, hidden away from the busy centre. No kerbs on this street, just the endless, timeless cobbles. And if you glance up, you’ll see tiny Madonnas tucked into alcoves on street corners.
The next day we experience the city in full and sample the wonderful beer. There is such a mixture of culture here and even the boat trips are given in several languages, Dutch, French, German, Flemish, English.
Then as soon as our visit has started, it is at an end but we are told by our Flemish host that the English always return. As we leave with our bags clattering behind us we can hear the chime of the bells playing some familiar tune – still slightly out of tune.
I’m sure we’ll be back.
Our cases rattled along behind us on the old worn cobbles and before us an elegant horse and carriage approached, the horse’s hooves ringing out on the cobbles as it trotted up past us. Navigating the roads and tourists with skill they carry their passengers between the old Dutch looking buildings and through the large open squares.
Glancing into shop windows there is lace festooned in crisp white displays and of course wonderful examples of chocolate everywhere.
Our hotel is surprisingly quiet, hidden away from the busy centre. No kerbs on this street, just the endless, timeless cobbles. And if you glance up, you’ll see tiny Madonnas tucked into alcoves on street corners.
The next day we experience the city in full and sample the wonderful beer. There is such a mixture of culture here and even the boat trips are given in several languages, Dutch, French, German, Flemish, English.
Then as soon as our visit has started, it is at an end but we are told by our Flemish host that the English always return. As we leave with our bags clattering behind us we can hear the chime of the bells playing some familiar tune – still slightly out of tune.
I’m sure we’ll be back.