The traveller returns!

We recently returned from a 10 day trip to The Netherlands and Belgium. The Netherlands was the family part as my darling husband is originally from Holland, although he took Canadian citizenship in the 70s. We spent 5 days with family, catching up on news and celebrating birthdays - mine included. Then we went on to Belgium, just the two of us, for our proper holiday of culture vulture activities; museums, galleries, medieval churches, cafes and shopping. It was a fantastic trip and although at times tiring, we came back full of inspiration. My next few blogs will likely be touching on the various places we went to visit, what were highlights for me and what I found particularly inspiring. The beautiful medieval towns of Ghent, Antwerp and Bruges were a treat to roam around.Each has its own unique feel and character. The most difficult part was deciding what to do. We really had to be firm with what we had to see as opposed to what could wait for another visit. Fortunately, both of us have similar interests. We both love art, so the hardest part was deciding which galleries and museums made the short list. And scheduling regular rest breaks was also important. Stopping for a coffee at cafes was not difficult as they are everywhere and are, in fact, part of the experience. Just sitting and watching people go by in such wonderful surroundings was incredibly relaxing and enjoyable. Of course there were personal observations that any traveler likes to make and the inevitable comparisons -like, many older Belgian women were dressed so stylish, and coming from anti-smoking Ontario it is alarming how many Europeans smoke, and why can't we have escalators that stop when no one is on them and are activated when you step on the pad at the top or bottom of the escalator. The same company makes them here in Canada as there in Belgium!

But the real joy of traveling is coming home, tired but happy with little treasures gathered along the way, fond memories and, in my case, with over 400 photos. Don't you just love digital cameras!