Essence of Brugge/Bruges

A glimpse of one of the beloved canals, a typical bicyclist (no helmet), some of the characteristic stepped-gable buildings, and a statue of one of the most famous early Flemish painters, Jan van Eyck, all in one photo!

We had a very late start to our first full day here, but after lunch, we spent the afternoon wandering in the main tourist area, enjoying the sun when it was out and moving more quickly when clouds came over. And yes, there were a couple of beer breaks, as well as some time -- and money -- spent in a fantastic beer shop, and also in a bakery, where we bought two whole-grain rolls and some excellent speculoos cookies, also a Belgian specialty.

I'm hoping that having so much time outside today will help reset our bodies' "clocks" to Belgian time, nine hours ahead of what we're used to, and I also hope that the weather holds so that we can have a longer wander on Wednesday, as well as visit one of the museums on my list. The Folklore Museum has a tavern, so maybe the promise of both lunch and beer will make that one the obvious first choice!

(I'm missing my usual "fix" of reading your journals, but will eventually catch up.)