Belgium: Beer and French Fry Heaven

Eating our way around the European Union is already one of the most memorable and enjoyable of my experiences thus far. And this deliciousness happens to me every single day! After a while, the beautiful old buildings and artwork start to blend together, starting to lose luster. Don't get me wrong, I have enjoyed those in their own right. But just try spending two months in Asia without good wine, bread or cheese - you will appreciate it! I'll name just two delicious treats for now.

We began in a village just outside of Antwerp called Zwijndrect. Andy's friend Thomas (from work), his wife Mathilde, two dogs and a cat live there in a quaint "smurf house" as they called it. (Photo Album.) They introduced us to the most delicious French fries I have ever tasted. And I don't even eat French fries! Why are they so good? They are deep fried twice. And somehow they are tasty with a load of mayonnaise on top. It tastes different than mayo from America - the Belgian mayo is creamier and less mayonnaise-y somehow.

Next, Belgian beer to wash down those frites. Duvel ("Devil"), Hoogarten (white), Bolleke and Kriek (cherry) to start. Most Belgian beers seem to have over 9% alcohol. Now that's bang for your buck! The very best experience, however, was our excursion to Brugge. (Photo Album.) It's a perfectly preserved medieval canal city with more than 200 beers that each have their own special glass with a special shape to maximize the beer's qualities. When I visited here in 2000 with my Dad we found a secret pub recommended by a local for the "best beer in Brugge." A turn down a tiny cobblestone alleyway that looks more like a doorway takes you to Van de Garre. We trucked up the narrow spiral staircase to the second floor in this building from the 1400s. An exclusive Trappist Monk beer is brewed here called the Tripel van de Garre. In Belgian beer-speak, this indicates the strongest beer in their range - this one at 11%.

Definitely a sipping beer that leaves a delicious taste...and buzz.