Bruge was a half day stop on the tour with International Friends. From the name of the city with its variation on spelling: Bruge, Brugge, Bruges, I could sense it was flexible and diverse city. Most people could speak more than 2 languages. The name has a uncanny resemblance to the word bridge. The symbolic image of bridging the gap between culture, nations, language come to mind when I hear "bridge". It's a symbol of trying to understand differences and overcoming the barriers between two very different or unfamiliar people, society, culture.
Some popular food items that originated from or are famous in Belgium include: Fries, Waffles, Chocolates, and the ridiculously varying varieties of beer.
The fast food item French fries made popular by McDonalds originated from Belgium. They could be referred to as Frites, Chips in Europe. Supposedly american soldiers first tasted this in Belgium during WWI. And because the Belgium soldiers spoke French, they were called French Fries. Fries are also the main ingredient to the popular French Canadian dish called "poutine" (Fries covered in gravy and cheese curd).
Belgium waffles are larger in size, with deeper square pockets and a lighter batter. Not the typical american instant frozen waffles.
It was also in Belgium where I started appreciating beer. Beer to me smelled like moldy bread, tasted bitter and gave me gas. However the vast variety of beer selection available in Belgium, especially those made from fruits such as cherry, strawberry, grapefruit, tangerine, etc. you are bound to find something you enjoy. I almost want to compare beer to chocolate. Both offer a bitter taste that awaits someone to appreciate. Heck there are probably some chocolate beer made from Belgium :P
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