Vaarwel Brugge...

Earlier today, we said farewell to Bruges.
This visit to Bruges was an exciting one, despite the fact that rain played spoilsport multiple times botching our plans to visit local museums and cathedrals. But we did have an amazing time exploring the Markt, cycling down to Damme, the boat ride on the canal and the lovely dinner that followed. 

As we sat down to have breakfast this morning the lovely sights of Bruges flashed in our minds. Indeed after the washout of this trip we vowed to return soon.

Our hotel was located along one of the most picturesque canals in the peaceful old quarter of St.Gillis, between the Augustine Bridge and the Tower Bridge. This building was once a warehouse for goods that were brought in on the canals. The oldest reference to this building dates to 1470...

The basement of the building has a beautiful vaulted cellar that is believed to be older than the upper floors. Today the cellar has been modelled into a restaurant that serves as a magnificent setting for breakfast, overlooking the canal...

A short 10 minute taxi ride with an elderly taxi driver brought us to the railway station from where boarded our train to Brussels - Bruxelles-Midi station. We were quite tired and we slept through the journey...

Arriving at Bruxelles-Midi station...

In about 30 minutes, we boarded our Thalys high speed train from Bruxelles-Midi station, headed to Paris, Gare du Nord. Thankfully, we weren't too sleepy and we could make full use of the complimentary on-board wifi service...

As we get ready to say goodbye to Belgium, we wish we are able to come back again and explore more of this country. Till then, goodbye...