Brugge, Beers, and the Belfry

We arrived in Brugge where we found good prices for a private room. Having a private bathroom is so nice!

While getting change at the front desk, Hunter met Steve and Mara, an American couple from Maryland.

We all went out together that night and were bummed to find that the whole city closes at 6 pm. Still, we managed to find an Irish pub where everyone had a drink. The waitress was awesome and I even got a free cookie with my hot chocolate.

That night we stayed up late playing cards with our new friends.

The next morning we met for breakfast. Instead of jam for the bread, they have chocolate spread! It is awesome!

We bought a museum pass and explored an old palace, two churches, and the belfry. The first church was cool, but was second tier compared to those in France. It did have a Michelangelo statue though, the only piece that left Italy during the artist's lifetime.

The other church was... Interesting. It is the church that holds the blood of Christ, which was recovered during the 12th century crusades. Catholics all over the world believe it's the real deal. Right when we arrived the priests started a ceremony. Prayers were said and the blood was placed on a pillow. We walked up and looked at it, but other people touched it and said prayers.

Next we walked up the belfry, which was like 350 old-school spiral steps. The view was awesome, but the trip was definitely a work out.

We ate lunch at a cool pasta place, but they wouldn't give us free water. The first waiter we had was rude and refused to serve us. Also, the first restaraunt we tried kicked us out. It was a bit uncomfortable to feel mistreated.

The guys headed off to a brewery tour and Mara and I went shopping. Chocolates galore!! The belgian and dutch are all about sweets. They also have waffles, which are in the top 3 most amazing desserts ever. The are so tasty, filled with sugar, and smothered in toppings. Mara and I shared a chocolate one.

Later we met up with the boys at the same Irish pub. This time Hunter and I shared a Steak and Guiness Pie, which was amazing! Hunter said I hogged it though.

The next day we said goodbye to our friends. We had so much fun with them. :(

Hunter and I spent the morning buying chocolates and presents for all our friends and family. Then is was off to Amsterdam! We got off at a wrong station, but oh well!

P.S. Brugge really is the Venice of the North. So beautiful.