Well, after a lovely (and mostly dry) day in Bridlington we arrived at Hull for the ferry to Brugges. Our cabin had the bonus of a sea view. The journey down the Humber was pleasant though it did get a little bumpy overnight.

On time arrival in Zebrugge and bus to Brugges. Then a long, long canalside walk, dragging two heavy suitcases over the uneven cobbles. Picturesque but hard work. So we arrived at the hotel. Very posh and better than expected.

Brugges itself is lovely. The pictures here don't do it justice. Lovely cobbled streets, canals, bridges and ornate buildings. There is a nice and lively atmosphere with cyclists and horse and carriages whizzing along the streets. We wandered around all day stopping only for Pizza.

Saturday was sprouts day. Yes we visited Brussels, traveling there by train. The 'Grote Markt' which seems to be the main square, is very lively and surrounded by impressive buildings. After a wander round the busy shopping centres and a tasty kebab, we spent ages looking for the pissing manequin. This was one of only two Brussels tourist attractions we knew about. We couldn't find it but then found it by accident after we had given up.

When we returned to Brugges, Siran tried and failed to buy some Belgian chocolate. "Sorry it's after 7:00pm, we don't sell chocolate after seven." (It was about 2 minutes past). Would you believe it? Licensing hours for chocolate? "Last orders (Ladies and) Gentlemen please!". Perhaps they have a problem with chocoholics ha ha ha!

Well it's now our third day in Belgium. We travel by train to Ostende and arrive there in the lovely sunshine to be greeted by the welcoming harbourside.

A pleasant stroll round town followed and a visit to a delicatessen which does a good line in monster size vol-au-vents.

Then back to Brugges for a spot of last minute souvenir hunting before departing to our ship - The Pride of Brugges.