Ghent: The Gentsefeesten
Written: Jul 15 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: You can party every night for 10 nights
Cons: You may be hung-over every day for 10 days
The Bottom Line: Every July, Ghent holds the Gentsefeesten, a 10-day street fair with live music to suit all tastes and beer tents on every corner. Try the French-fries with mayo!
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| nmg1969's Full Review: Ghent |
In July 2000 I was on my way from Amsterdam to Paris to watch the end of the Tour de France. I found myself with a couple of days to spare so I visited Ghent.
In mid to late July, Ghent holds the annual Gentsefeesten (pronounced Gentsafest). It's a huge 10 day medieval fair with street entertainment and live music (from Jazz to Techno). The traffic-free city center is taken over by this street party.
Finding accommodation can be a problem during this festival, so book ahead. Unfortunately I didn't do this. It was quite frustrating having to walk around for a couple of hours looking for a bed for the night.
Although Ghent is very busy during this time, I never had a problem getting a seat at a cafe. The bars and nightclubs are of course full with young tourists and locals.
There are several large outdoor stages around the city. Each has it’s own type of live musical act. There are beer tents around each stage selling the local brown ale. As an Australian, I found it strange to see McDonald's selling beer! If you are looking for a cheap drink in Ghent, head to the golden-arches.
During the day there are a lot of stalls selling paintings and other artwork. There is also a huge area set up for kids to ride the Ferris wheel, drive bumper cars and win cuddly toys.
In the city center, between two cathedrals, is what looked to be a new tourist attraction. It was a large circular viewing tower, which I loved. There are great views looking out over some amazing architecture. Be sure to bring plenty of film to Ghent. I shot a roll of black and white and two rolls of color in two days.
If you have the energy after partying all night, find a friend and hire a tandem bike. Go and explore the rest of the city (watch out for tram tracks). This is a fun way to see more of the sights that Ghent has to offer. I found a beautiful lake with sandy shores. It was a strange sight for the middle of Belgium.
Be sure to buy some French-fries when you are out one night. Mayonnaise is the favorite topping for the locals. Give it a try just for a laugh!
Of all the towns and cities that I visited during my holiday in Europe, Ghent stands out as the place with the most helpful and friendly locals. Another bonus about a holiday in Ghent is that all the locals are happy to speak English. I would recommend this trip to young back-packers/students. Family groups would also enjoy the festive atmosphere during the day.
To find out about dates for the next Gentsefeesten, go to www.visitbelgium.com
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
nmg1969
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Location: Australia
Reviews written: 14
Trusted by: 10 members
About Me:
I'm an Australian who loves bikes, hi-fi, travel and photography.
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