Bruges / Belgium
Day 1
Before we booked this trip, I thought we could just hop on a train and cruise into Bruges (which is in Belgium) since it’s almost on the coast. But turns out even if you fly or take the Eurostar you still have to go via Brussels, then another train to Bruges. We ended up flying since we got good flights from Heathrow (30mins on the tube for us) but it’s probably better to take the Eurostar from Kings Cross which only takes two hours then another hour to Bruges on another train. We arrived fairly late and decided to walk to our Airbnb. This worked as one of the most photographed spots in the town, was absolutely void of anyone, the water was still and the buildings were beautifully lit. The next morning it was far from tranquil.
Day 2
We started the morning with breakfast at a spot we passed the night before called Sanseveria Bagelsalon. Good bagels, good vibes, would recommend. Over breakfast we decided to do a boat tour around the canals. We went with a company called Canal Boat Ride, it was about €8 each and took about half an hour. Was good to see the town from another view, but the tour guide was a bit meh. We then carried on walking around the town and exploring the quiet streets away from the tourists, popping into a few shops then headed out of the town for some French fries (they’re a big deal in Belgium) at a spot called De Bosrand. They were good, but not worth the 20 minute walk in the cold! It was then back into Bruges to have hot chocolates (Bruges best), waffles and to wonder the Christmas markets. We finished the night off with a couple of drinks at Café Rose Red. It had been recommended to us by a friend and our Airbnb and it didn’t disappoint!
Day 3
Another early start, but this time we were greeted with a beautiful sunrise that bought pockets of warmth, and long drawn shadows. Again, a very quiet time as we walked (in the wrong direction) to a bike hire place. Missing the time for a bike tour, we settled for a ‘free’ walking tour around the old town. Meeting in the Markt, we made our way around and got clued up on the history of Bruges and the role it played in the early days of Belgium. A bit more wondering some shops, eating more frites and one last hit of hot chocolate before we headed back to get our bags and make our way back to Brussels for our flight home.
I love creating images that speak to me.
I grew up in a small town that nobody really knows about, Levin. Spent a good ten years in Hamilton making some of the best friends anyone could have. And now I’m living, working and playing in the city of Auckland, New Zealand. Also a small country that people have trouble locating – I’m looking at you America!
Life is about stories, and that’s what I love to capture and document. My shooting style is unobtrusive. You may be a natural in front of the camera, or have no idea what to do but before we even start I’ll make sure you’re comfortable and relaxed.
Things I love: Travelling to wherever I can, my partner Monita, homemade burgers, wood fired pizzas, the smell of rain on a hot summers day, mountains, the snow, sunsets and sunrises, star gazing, natural light, the aesthetic of wood, crashing waves and day dreaming.