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| Bruges |
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| Lion Mound |
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| Battle of Waterloo |
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| Bruges |
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| Bruges |
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| Atomium |
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| Mannequin |
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| Bruges |
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| Tower Bridge |
Chris wrote:-
Thursday
We
flew from Manchester to Brussels (Charloi) and after a taxi ride
disembarked in the centre of Brussels, by the main Square, “Grand
Place”. After admiring the surrounding buildings and following a
quick photographic extravaganza, we proceeded to a local restaurant
where we enjoyed a 2 course meal for Euro 12.
In
the afternoon we visited the “Manikin Piss statue” and then his
costume museum. Importantly we also purchased 3 day tickets for use
on the Brussels Trams and Buses etc. Cost Euro 17.We subsequently booked into the excellent Jaques Brel YHA and in the evening sampled a local pub with Belgian Beers.
Friday
Whist the good weather lasted, we took the train to the historic City of Bruges.
This City has been almost unmodernised for the last 250 years and most of the buildings are the equivalent of grade 1 listed. We spent the afternoon admiring the excellent architecture and enjoyed a scenic trip on the canals.
Saturday
To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the battle of Waterloo (1815) a new visitor centre has been opened on the site of the battle. Transport today was an 18 mile bus ride to Waterloo.
We were able to explore the new Waterloo Visitor Centre and watch a 3D film re-enacting the highlights of the battle.
Sunday
We did a tour of Brussels by Tram and Foot.
Sights included: The E.U. Parliament, the Atomium and we finished off at the Vintage car museum.
Monday
We took the Eurostar from Brussels Midi station to London St Pancras. As most of you know this involves travelling under the Channel. We then booked into the hostel at St Pancras YHA in London.
An evening pub night was hosted by our London friend and SWOG member, Ken Hodgson.
Tuesday
Six of us toured London by foot and Underground. Sights included Borough Market and Tower Bridge.
Our final leg home was completed on the Virgin train from Euston to Stockport.
Highlights of the trip
Historic Bruges
Belgian Beer
Grand Place in Brussels
Excellent YHA in Brussels
Sightseeing
Down sides
Russell lost his wallet
Shaun didn't like the 18 mile bus ride to Waterloo.
