Day 1 – Bruges and Ghent - Bruges

After three days on my own in Brussels, it was time for the next phase of my travels, a Viking pre-cruise extension called “Bruges and Ghent.” This extension includes three nights in Bruges and is described as follows:

Experience the captivating charms of Bruges, one of Europe’s most remarkably well-preserved medieval cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the architectural treasures of neighboring Ghent. Pay your respects at the hallowed World War I battlefields of Flanders.

Unfortunately, when guests arrive several days before the start of a pre-cruise extension, Viking does not provide a transfer to the extension hotel. That was the case with me, so I had to get from Brussels to Bruges on my own dime today. Although it would have made more sense to take the train, I chose to hire a car and driver because of my knee and luggage. The fact that one of my credit cards offered $100 off the ride made the decision a bit easier to make.

My driver’s name was Sara, and she picked me up at Hotel Amigo and drove me to the Dukes’ Palace Hotel in Bruges. We had a lively conversation, and it was such a pleasant way to spend an hour or so.

Sara and Sarah

The Dukes’ Palace Hotel is the former residence of the Burgundian aristocracy and is in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bruges. I was lucky that my room was ready when I arrived.

Dukes' Palace Hotel

The Viking Tour Director met me at the hotel, and she later described to those of us who had arrived the plans for the next three days. I met some of the participants and was happy to learn that there will be 15 guests in our group, much better than the 150+ who were on an extension last week.

After a short orientation walk through the area near our hotel, I headed off on my own to explore some of Bruges. I first walked to the Markt, or Market Square, the main square in the city, which was almost as magnificent as the one in Brussels.

Market Square

It was then time for a walk to discover the medieval architecture along the canals. Once I was away from the main tourist areas, the streets were quiet and peaceful, and I could take my time to admire the beauty of the city.

Along the Canals

At the orientation, I had met two sisters, Bonnie and Chris, and Bonnie and I decided to have dinner at a restaurant on Market Square. I enjoyed our conversation and look forward to hanging out with them.