Charlene and I got back late last night from an incredible cruise of Northern Europe and Russia followed by 3 days in London (as long as we were over there). We left Dover and visited Copenhagen, Warnemunde Germany (with a day trip to Berlin), Helsinki, St. Petersburg Russia, Tallinn Estonia, and Bruges Belgium. One whistle related highlight was hand delivering a whistle to a buyer in Bruges. Afterwards, Brecht took the time to take us on a walking tour of this gorgeous, picturebook city, including a tour of a Belgian brewery, complete with tastings.
Once in London, we managed to hook up with Tony Hinnigan with whom I’ve corresponded for a number of years. It was great to meet someone I’ve only known online, to share some great conversation and a couple of hand pulled pints.
The whole trip was simply amazing and I’d heartily recommend it if anyone is up for a big vacation.
Glad to hear about your wonderful trip.
Did the customer cover the costs of delivery? 
Feadoggie
Paul,
Sounds like a great trip. So, how was the beer?
Slainte,
Cayden
No-- in fact, this saved him the cost of shipping from the US and Belgian customs fees.
I managed to find local beers in all of our destinations, and all were quite fine. For sheer diversity and creativity, nobody comes even close to Belgium though.
So glad you had a great time. Will you be posting pics?
Aah.. " De Halve Maan" Straffe Hendrik and Brugse zot, that’s life!
Halve Maan indeed. I came home with a beautiful metal Brugse Zot* sign in full color, and a Brugse Zot baseball cap.
From what I gather, Brugse Zot means Bruges’ Fool, or jester. A jester is depicted on the sign and cap. The brewery tour an De Halve Maan is well worth taking if you’re in Bruges. They show you the old traditional brewing methods, plus some more modern innovations that they employ.
Since you’ve been to Bruges, you may enjoy this movie. I thought it was hysterical.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0780536/
I had never heard of it, but our friend there mentioned it, and I immediately put it at the top of our Netflix queue.
It’s a great movie indeed! I visited every place mentioned/featured in the movie! All of them very cool to see/experience, even the 365 steps up to the top of the belfry!
Shhhh.