The 28th Harrogate Guides set off for an exciting few days in Belgium, exploring the beautiful cities of Bruges and Ghent. They began their journey by getting the Eurostar from London St Pancras, enjoying a relaxed train ride before arriving in Brussels. From there, they travelled on to Ghent, checked into the hostel, and spent a leisurely evening eating and connecting with each other.
Sitting outside in a cafe by the canal in Ghent, where we were all enjoying waffles, was a magical moment on the trip.
A tasty insight into Belgium’s culinary history
The Guides started their morning with a hearty breakfast before heading to Bruges for a day of exploring the city’s wonderful sights, sounds and smells. Choco-Story was the first stop for an audio-guided tour. located in the sixteenth-century “Huis de Crone” building on Sint-Jansplein in central Bruges, this museum brings the 5,500 years of history to life! Groups can immerse themselves in a multisensory experience, seeing how chocolate is made and tasting the delicious treat.
Following the museum visit, the group had free time for a leisurely packed lunch and to wander around the town, picking up souvenirs and doing a little shopping. In the afternoon, they headed to the Frietmuseum for another tasty excursion. It’s the first and only museum in the world dedicated to fries! The displays delve into the origins and history of the potato and how it travelled to Europe. Visitors can also learn how to make the perfect Belgian fry! The museum ends with a tasting area in a medieval cellar-style cafeteria. Combining the Choco-Story museum and the Frietmusuem made for a deliciously memorable day, uncovering Belgium’s rich culinary heritage.
Watching the guides explore the Frietsmuseum and giggling with the leaders at some of the super displays was one of the highlights of the trip!
Postcards from Brussels
The next day began bright and early as the group made their way over to the train station for an exciting day at Girlguiding Northeast England’s Postcards from Brussels wide game event. This international day-long activity allows Girlguiding North East England members to participate in completing challenges, taking photos, earning points, and exploring Brussels. The event was open to Guides, Rangers, young leaders, Inspire members, adult members and Trefoil Guild members.
After the event, the Guides replenished their energy with an evening dinner at the Hard Rock Café. The group had the time to wind down, reflect on the trip and share their favourite memories- rounding off a packed but enriching few days in Belgium.
We often find the Guides grow in confidence after going on an international trip, and they go on to flourish.
Helen Winter, 3rd Areley Kings Guides Unit Leader
A Leader’s Perspective: Discovering the Charm of Ghent and Bruges
Ghent is a super place to visit, even though it was cold and damp when we were there. The Castle of the Counts was really interesting, and I’m sure there are lots more places to visit, like the Belfry and the other churches; we just didn’t have time. De Draecke Hostel was superb, albeit a tram ride from the main station. Our Guides loved the trams and thought how cool they were, just going along the roads with cars and bicycles alongside them. Bruges is so pretty, and there is so much to do there, too!
Venture Abroad was a huge help in finding our accommodation and dealing with the hostel about the rooms and meals, it took a huge pressure away from me. Likewise, securing our Eurostar tickets for us was one less job to do. Elena was very thorough and attentive, and nothing was too much trouble. The Vamoos app is a great help, too, when you’re away.
Ready to embark on a Belgian adventure?
Whether you’re heading to the battlefields of World War One, an action-packed forest adventure or a cultural escape to the picturesque city, our team is on hand to help you from initial enquiry until you arrive home from your trip. Speak to us today to start planning your next unforgettable adventure!
