Pleasant, but don't stay too long

We had a good time in Bruges, but it was a pretty lazy place. If you're going to relax, it's great. It's very small, so getting around on foot isn't a problem speed-wise, but you'll have to be an expert navigator to not get lost in this labyrinth. Buy chocolates from supermarkets, though, as the little places are very expensive. Good bakeries, though, if you know which ones to visit.

• Insider tip:Get the youth map of Bruges. It was full of amazing deals (3 Euro pasta, and lots of it). We got one for free from our hostel.

WW1 Battlefields, beer, etc

Took a day trip to the battlefields of Flanders and some of the Memorial sites (Tyne Cot, Scottish Memorial, Round Tower (all)Irish Memorial, Menin Gate, a very moving experience. Also enjoyed some great local Belgian beers

• Insider tip:Try St.Bernardus Abbot 12 beer. try a tour from www.quasimodo.be

best hostel i've stayed at. i've been to 15 different countries these past few months and would come back to this hostel in a heartbeat.

• Insider tip:the staff is so wonderful. ask them for inside tips on what to do around town. they love to help you!

Beautiful Bruges

Bruges is a beautiful city, despite the hordes of British tourists. Quaint and medieval, yet lively. The walk up the Belfry's stairs is exhausting but definetly worth while, the veiws from the top are amazing, especially if you time your visit for sunset. The Christmas Markets are another must see sight if you're there at that time of year.Just spend some time wandering and getting lost and your sure to find something beautiful or quirky or tasty.

Don't believe the Film!

Perfect way to begin 3weeks around Europe

• Insider tip:Buy your food from the little shops or bakerei's cos the resteraunts are tourist traps!