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Flanders: Bits of Belgium

Kathy Noltze
Magnum Travel, Inc. (2008)
ISBN 9780980157208
Reviewed by LuAnn Morgan for RebeccasReads (6/08)

In “Flanders: Bits of Belgium,” Kathy Noltze combines history, culture and travel to create a book that is every bit a joy to read. Beautiful pictures and writing give the reader a true sense of the country.

Noltze begins the journey with her arrival in Oostende, shows what to expect while traveling and goes directly into the history of the city.  She then explains what to expect when in a foreign country, the best way to get from place to place and how to interact with the people there.

The author chose Flanders because Brussels, its largest city and the capital of Europe, is a melting pot of cultures from around the continent.  The area is also centrally located along the coast of the North Sea and provides easy access to the surrounding area. Travel is convenient and makes sightseeing a treat.

Noltze takes the reader on a pleasant journey through city after city, explaining the similarities and differences of each place she stops along the route.  Her writing style makes for a book that allows the reader to kick back and simply enjoy the words and photographs. And what lovely sights she shares! The centuries old architecture is magnificent and Noltze captures the scenery at its finest.

In addition to Oostende, we also get pictures and stories of De Panne, Veurne, Knokke and other wonderful places.  Noltze also introduces the reader to the royal family and explains how the government works in this rather unique place. She ends the book with a few stories to demonstrate the pitfalls and joys of travel.

Flanders can only be described as a gift from this author to the reading community. She manages to pack a lot of information into the 97 pages to give the reader an extraordinary lesson.  This book is recommended reading for anyone planning a trip to Belgium. Yet, it is also a wonderful addition to any home library.  Lay it on the end table and watch the smiles you receive from guests who pick it up out of curiosity!

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