Bustling Ostend

Oostende in Flemish or Ostende in French was once one of Europe's most stylish seaside resorts. We visited for the first time today and were greeted by a ridiculously strong wind and equally ridiculously priced windbreakers. However, it would have ended up being a bit of a miserable day if we hadn't of purchased one, so, we succumbed and bought one with our friends.

I've never particularly liked sitting on a beach or eating sand mixed in with food, which is strange considering I lived in the Middle East for a number of years. The kids all had a great time though, which I must remember when I reluctantly agree to the next visit.

Interesting fact (according to our Lonely Planet guide): During a prolonged stay here, US singer Marvin Gaye wrote one of the greatest soul songs of all time, Sexual Healing.