Members of Rotary Club La Valette recently enjoyed a memorable five-day visit to Belgium, exploring historic cities in Flanders and Brussels while strengthening friendships with fellow Rotarians from Rotary Club Damme.
The journey began in the fairy-tale medieval city of Bruges, renowned for its picturesque canals, cobbled streets and magnificent architecture. A guided walking tour introduced members to its rich heritage, including the Markt, Belfry, Burg Square and Basilica of the Holy Blood. This was the perfect setting for discovery, laughter and wonderful fellowship.
A particular highlight was the special evening with Rotary Club Damme, where our Belgian friends very warmly welcomed the visiting members. Presidents Anne Marie Bianchi of Rotary Club La Valette and Benedict Huys of Rotary Club Damme celebrated the two clubs’ friendship with an exchange of greetings and gifts and a few laughs.
La Valette’s collaboration on a Rotary Global Grant supporting Dar Tgħanniqa t’Omm has made this relationship especially meaningful, demonstrating how Rotary clubs can work together across borders to make a positive difference.
Travels also took the group to Ypres, where guided visits to the In Flanders Fields Museum, Menin Gate Memorial and Tyne Cot Cemetery offered a moving reflection on the horror and human sacrifices while walking along the actual location of the First World War.
In Brussels, Club members were warmly welcomed at the European Parliament by 3 compatriots who enthusiastically shared their knowledge and anecdotes resulting from supporting the EU President, giving us a valuable insight into the various European institutions. A special highlight was visiting the private floor housing the offices of European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, including areas where the highest-level meetings and official engagements take place, offering a fascinating, unique glimpse behind the scenes of European leadership. The group also explored the historic centre, admiring the magnificent Grand-Place, elegant Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert and other landmarks.
Back in Bruges, Rotarians discovered the city’s renowned artisan chocolate traditions and explored the quaint canals. A scenic boat journey through the Flemish countryside brought everyone to historic Damme, once an important medieval port connected to Bruges that we explored with our guide.
Beyond the fascinating places and experiences, and discovery of new dishes and drinks, what made this visit truly special was the friendship, warmth, and shared fellowship.
Rotary La Valette members returned home with wonderful memories, renewed friendships, and a deeper appreciation of Rotary’s international spirit, which connects people, builds lasting relationships, and creates opportunities to serve together.
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If you would like to donate to support the Club’s work and projects, you can do so through a direct bank transfer to the following Bank Account, specifying “Club Donation” when effecting the transfer. You are also encouraged to write to us on: [email protected] so that we may acknowledge your donation personally. Thank you.
Bank account details:
Account Name: Rotary Club La Valette Malta
Bank: HSBC Bank Malta plc, High Street, Sliema, Malta
Account No: 006 123467 001
Sort Code: 44060
IBAN: MT35MMEB44060000000006123467001
Swift Code: MMEB MTMT
