Day trippers flock to the coast

Ostend still has four guarded zones in September. The rescuers were unable to convince all bathers to enter the water in those areas. The catering industry welcomes the unusual crowds in September with open arms. Almost all hotels in Ostend are full.

“The terraces are full and there are a lot of people,” says Silke Beirens, councilor of the Beach Rescue Service. “Yet it is not the incredible crowds that we have on an announced heat day during the summer holidays.”