Belgium is, without doubt, a beautiful country, but can it rain! As I caught the train from Brussels to the northern city of Bruges, my mind went back to history lessons and the knowledge that Napoleon faced his Waterloo in the mud of Belgium. Those First World War photographs of mud and more mud certainly rang true as the train pulled into the station.

I was quite unprepared for the amazing beauty of this ancient city. From the cobblestone streets to the misty canals, I felt like I had fallen through a time warp into another world.

   The boat ride along the many canals that criss cross Bruges would have been relaxing had I not been grabbing for my camera every few seconds. Each turn of the canal revealed another postcard, and the shops and restaurants which line the streets beckon travellers to spend many hours in their company.

   The ancient art of lacemaking by hand is a feature of this city, and the elderly ladies stun onlookers with their dexterity and speed creating lace masterpieces for the local stores.

   One final effort was made to climb the tower in the centre of the town square church. Hundreds of steps, and quite a lot of heavy breathing later we stood looking out across one of the most suprizing cities I had ever seen.

   So, if you are going to Belgium, do not miss the canals and the cobblestones, the churches and the shops, the experience and the beauty which is Bruges!