Belgium, for some reason, has the second highest suicide rate in Europe. So to combat depression, the Bruges City Council declared Langestraat Street an official “hello street” a couple of years ago. Signs along it encourage pedestrians to salute each other and be friendly. I lead a one man unofficial crusade to this effect during read more »

Gravensteen Castle is an impressive medieval fortress of moderate size. It also had what must have been the most sadistic counts in Europe. Nearly every room had an explanation like this: “This hall originally started as the count’s private chapel, but was later converted into ‘the sugar cage,’ where prisoners awaited torture.” The antechamber was read more »