I drove back to Tesco’s and noticed a camper van from the night before was still in the same place, suggesting it is ok to stay there. I drove to the docks and caught the ferry to Dunkerque. The journey was very smooth.
Once in France I got on the road. Driving on the right was easy enough to pick up, although roundabouts and large junctions take a little getting used to, as my instincts make me look the wrong way. My satellite navigation unit has proved priceless as I only look at maps to get a rough idea. I decide to head into Belgium, towards Brugge. Belgium has a distinct feel, very like the Netherlands. The suburban buildings remind me of Lego models from when I was a kid!
I stop at Oostende and take a walk on the see front. Parking is easy and free. There are many camper vans parked in the car parks, some are home conversions. All are Belgian. There are a dozen surfers in the sea. The waves are small and sandy, but the increasing number of surfers, and their enthusiasm, suggests that these are good waves for the area. Considering it is the English Channel I guess it’s a great wave.
I’m not tempted to take a dip; I’m still adjusting to being in Belgium. I expected everyone in Belgium to speak French, but people in the northern area speak Flemish.
I head towards Brugge. When I stop for fuel I notice that there is a parking area for recreational vehicles, and there are showers in the toilets. There are a lot of caravans and campers around, mostly Belgian, Dutch and British. I drive to the Memling camp site recommend in the Lonely Planet guide. It costs €20, which is more than I expected, but this includes 2 people and electricity, not bad really. The site is good for its size and location. I speak with a couple from Essex. They say there P&O return ferry cost £80 for their motorhome. That is great value. The site has a free wireless hotspot.
