BELGIUM

Despite all the wars the people of Belgium have managed to preserve a good proportion of their medieval towns. UNESCO listed Bruge,  enchanting and atmospheric, is a mish-mash of charming medieval streets, criss-crossing canals, red brick buildings and museums encircled by a ring road with four ancient gates. I was told by a local that it is the Venice of the North. The 12th-century town is bursting with history, culture and markets.

The indulgence in all the local delicacies of sumptuous Belgian chocolates, Belgian waffles, various local pastries and Belgium fries (They insist that the French were not the first to invent the French fries.  It was first Belgium fries).  I am sure has nullified all our walking efforts.

We strolled along the maze of cobblestone paths beside the winding waterways. Such attractions as the Lake of Love (Minnewater to locals) and the local park were such pretty sights. The Benguin’s houses from the 13 century, now home the  Benedictine monks were so worth the visit.  It is such a peaceful quiet place to wander around with its lovely gardens and stream running through it.

So picturesque.

Belgium is also a country which has known the devastation of war.  We were very fortunate do a trip out to the Flanders fields where my grandfather had fought during the first world war.  We had his diary with us which thrilled the tour guide.  Reading the relevant bits during breaks, he took us to the various places where he would have fought, and geared the tour towards the great contribution of the ANZACS. We walked through the trenches, learnt from the museums and were taken to Hill 57, where my grandfather would have been. We were very proud to be Australian and were very proud and grateful to the efforts of our Australian soldiers whom my grandfather was one of.

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

 That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

 Scarce heard amid the guns below.

                                                             ……Dr John Mcrae

(sorry guys i cant get the photos up at the moment- tech glitch... I will get them up ASAP)