Luggage Update, Merry Christmas, and Time to Explore

Our luggage arrived about 9:45 last night, and I have never been more happy to see a 28" piece of poly-carbon in my life!

A hot shower and 8-10 hours later, it was time to get up and find the closest bar!

Let me just say that today was a glorious day.  And while we have shorter hours in the US once winter settles in, nothing says lack of daylight like northern Europe - sunrise is about 830 am and sunset is around 4:45.

This morning was beautiful - Joe took pictures of it while I was still asleep:



We finally got up and headed out.  Our first stop was at the canal at Poorter's Loge - an ancient building on the canal, and one of the most photographed in the city.


Since it's Christmas, we didn't expect much to be open, but it's Europe, not Alabama, and we found several bars happily serving, so we indulged.  So much good beer to drink, and so many friendly people willing to serve it to us.  

Two spots, in particular, topped the list: the Cambrinus Cafe and the Cambrinus Brasserie - just down the street from one another, selling great food and boasting about 400 beers.   Cambrinus is the king of beers (sorry Budweiser).  


So, in deference to the king, we drank.  At a bar that has more than 400 beers on their menu.  THAT'S RIGHT!  400 BEERS.  


Look at the heft of that menu!!  Lord, help me!  

We drank for most of the afternoon, strolled the Christmas Market (and had some Bailey's and hot chocolate), and then headed to an Italian place right next to our apartment.  So good.  Just right.  Hit the spot.

Tomorrow, the museums and other sights will be open again.  We hope to take in a mix of culture and Belgian Yeast.  At least, that's what I hope to do!  






  

















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