Beer Tour - May 26 2007

After an early start from Brussels we went to visit Brasserie a Vapeur, a small artisan steam powered brewery that opens once a month to the public.  After a personal tour, we were treated to a lunch of delicious meats and cheese and of course the brew master's prized beer.  He gave us bottles to take home from his stash of well aged brew.  Yummy.

Then on to De Dolle Brewery in Belgium, and a great tour by the brewer's mother; what a character!  Their beer can be found in the US for about $5 for a small (10oz) bottle!

Next to Westvleteren, brewed by Monks and managed to snag a few 6 packs to share on the bus.

After enjoying their super, never sold anywhere beer, it was to our hotel for the night, the Belle Hotel in Bailleul, France.

Brussels - May 25 2007

Today was more relaxing; took a walk around the area and found 4 geocaches - the best one was at the lift, an area that drops about 100 feet to the next level at a cliff (in town no less!) and they installed an elevator or "lift".

Had lunch at an outdoor seating restaurant that was on a sloping street, and yes, the tables did slope.

We met our tour people this afternoon for a local quickie tour, some delicious beer establishments, and a super dinner at a beer specialty restaurant.  Early night, as the bus trip starts tomorrow at about 9AM.

Brugge Belgium - May 24 2007

Today we went to Brugge, about an hour train ride out of Brussels.  A pretty town, walked to the center from the train station.  Sat on the square for a beer or two, and located the Webcam that we watched for the last month or so on the internet.  Had a nice boat ride on the canals, ate lunch at the Half Moon Brewery.  Amazing building architecture, wish I had taken more pictures.

Brussels - May 23 2007

From London to Brussels via the Eurostar "Chunnel" train.  Couldn't see a thing in the tunnel, but what did we really expect?  Brussels hotel was right near the old Town Square.  Did some walking around the area which was very relaxing.

Stonehenge & Salisbury Tuesday May 22 2007

Yet another London Walks walking tour.  Took the train to Salisbury, visited the cathedral which is the highest in England, ate locally in a Pub, then on to Stonehenge.

Back by train to London for an evening play.  Busy Busy!

London Day 2 - May 21 2007

Lots of sightseeing today.  London Walks, a local tour company, provides many inexpensive and interesting short walking tours to suit almost any taste.  Check them out online.  No pre-booking necessary, just show up at the proper time and place.

We went on one to the British Museum in the morning, drank beer and ate at the not to be missed and hard to fine "Ye Olde Mitre" pub located down an obscure alley.  The tea at harrods, and another walking tour at night of Pubs across the river (South bank).

London First... May 20 2007

We got to London at noon Sunday, tried to stay awake, it was tough to do. Went on a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) high speed cruise on the Thames, then on the London Eye. And several Pubs, like the Victoria Pub shown here for dinner!