As far as the eye can see . . .

the Fat Magritte statue

James Ensor, 1860 - 1949

Oostende . I have to admit, I was shocked the first time I saw the Belgian coast. It took me years to return. It isn't the Carribean (no, it's the cold North Sea) or the beaches of Asia (not a palm tree on a secluded beach in site). But this 68 kilometer stretch is where Belgians come to play. It is extremely popular and housing is outrageously expensive. Everyone wants a flat or villa on the coast.

It must have been beautiful in its day. There are remarkable houses throughout the city, but most were torn down to make way for ugly, but profitable, apartments. And, instead of palm trees, it is apartment buildings you see lining the beach as far as the eye can see.

Oostende offers a beautiful promenade along the beach, as well as shopping, seafood, and lovely cafes.