Just Around The River Bend

We had another early morning due to our scheduled meeting at NATO. And we had to be there extra early due to the process it takes to just get in. We went through background checks and security. And we weren't allowed to take in our phones or cameras. When we finally got into the building there was an assortment of military uniforms branded with different emblems and flags filling the common area. I later found out that there was some kind of meeting today, which was why there were so many generals there.
We had two different lectures, the first giving an overview of NATO and it's purpose. And the second discussing the difference between the allies and the partners. I kind of chucked a bit because the first speaker started off with this whole hoopla about how everything she was saying was off-record and how we could not record or misuse her words as representation for the voice of NATO. And I just thought, lady we are college kids....we have no desire to go to court over this. It seemed a bit over dramatic, but I quickly reminded myself of the intense process to get into the building and realized it was probably for good measure.

After our lectures we boarded the bus once again, this time headed for Bruges. I had never heard of Bruges before, but when I got there I knew I would never forget it. Bruges is a quaint place lined with canals and old cobblestone buildings and cottages. Ivy grows rampant as it climbs over bridges and walls. And everyone rides their bicycles along the street. It was different than everywhere else we had been. Bruges seemed like it was like the secret garden of Europe. Not many knew about it, but those who did loved it dearly. I had a tasty salmon quiche for lunch and then our group took a canal cruise. It began to lightly sprinkle when we boarded the boat, but I didn't mind at all. It just added to the mystery and wonder of it all. 

I finished the day shopping and roaming around Bruges until it was time to leave to go back to the hotel. Though I wasn't there long, I won't forget it!

xoxo,
Claire Marie



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