Ghent, Belgium
Arrived in Ghent
We chose Ghent as a destination because it looked like a quiet little Belgium town, with cobbled stoned streets and stone cathedrals, medieval bridges and even a castle. Yes, it has all of those, but what we weren’t prepared for was the shopping and massive amount of tourists out and about enjoying the day. And remember it was a cold, windy and slightly rainy day. The temperatures were still around 65 degrees and getting colder and the rain was coming in and out but mostly in. But it didn’t seem to bother anyone who was walking the streets and pouring into the shops. We checked into our hotel which was right in the middle of town, dropped our bags and from the window we could see it all happening right below us. The energy was infectious and the girls and I were ready to jump right in and start shopping. In and out of shops we went. Stops for shoes and clothes and cute little this and that’s. It really was a lot of fun, especially when every other one was a chocolate shop with samples. I may be exaggerating a bit but the chocolate really is that good that you can’t pass them up. If people watching is a sport my favorite players are the little ones in rain boots stomping at puddles as dads tried to catch them and ultimately giving up because it’s too late, their soaked or just giving in and joining the stomping.
The main streets led to the main square which is so rounded by a huge cathedral. The church bells started to ring and rain grew more intense. We decided to return to the hotel, recoup and get ready for dinner.
We found a nice Italian restaurant, San Marco’s and because of the rain they were able to sit us without reservations. It smelled like basil and garlic when we walked in and it was warm with not an inch of blank space on the walls that wasn’t decorated with something. It was like eating at an Italian aunts house. There were two sisters running food from the kitchen that was pumping out pizza’s for take out orders. Raining nights anywhere around the world are perfect for pizza at home. One thing we remembered from our travels before, if we are ever in doubt about what to eat in Europe, find an Italian restaurant, there is always one and your gonna have a good meal.
We were treated to a wonderful meal. Bruschetta for starters and three different pasta dishes which we all shared for a different taste. Carbonara, with its rich texture, linguine alla porcini, dark and full of flavor and spinach tortellini, a colorful tomato sauce with cheese filled pillows. Satisfied, happy and full, we walked to a street side ice cream and waffle stand that was still open. Gooey, warm and drizzled with chocolate, a Belgium waffle is a special treat. I can’t eat ice cream so I often have to skip the special treat portion of dinner, but I love taking the girls. But this time I get to indulge. It was so good I forgot to grab a picture of my chocolate covered waffle with bananas and strawberries and the waffle cones of ice cream the girls walked away with.
Tomorrow is a full day in Ghent to explore. Can’t wait to see the city and the weather forecast looks great too!
