Belgium might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of tourist destinations, but it’s full of fascinating spots worth visiting. During a road trip through Europe, we made a stop in Belgium and explored a few cities, including the captivating Brussels.
Just like other parts of Europe, Belgium boasts vast plazas and towering cathedral-like buildings, along with its impressive castles. The Grand Place in Brussels is exceptionally lively, brimming with restaurants, bars, and even a Starbucks. Honestly, finding a good cup of tea in Europe can be challenging, but Starbucks does the trick.
The massive mall with its glass roof is stunning, featuring numerous stores selling Belgian chocolates. Belgium is world-renowned for its chocolate, and seeing the displays and the passion for chocolate-making is truly impressive. Belgian chocolate comes in a wide variety of flavors and fillings. From classic dark and milk chocolates to innovative creations with exotic ingredients, there's something for every taste. Some of the most famous chocolate brands, including: Godiva, Leonidas, Neuhaus and Pierre Marcolini just to name a few. These brands are celebrated for their high-quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and a wide variety of flavors and fillings. Whether you're a fan of classic pralines, rich truffles, or innovative chocolate creations, Belgian chocolate has something to offer every chocolate lover. One of the best parts about visiting chocolate shops in Belgium is the ability to sample the chocolates before making a purchase. It allows you to explore a variety of flavors and find your favorites.
Belgian food is vibrant and abundant. You can grab French fries served in a paper cone from small eateries, an iconic Belgian tradition. The Belgians eat fries with Mayonnaise and Andalouse sauce, which is made of mayo, peppers, lemon, and tomato. This sauce is also made by Heinz in the States. It was new to me to eat fries with mayo, but I guess that’s part of the fun of traveling. I found myself laughing as I enjoyed them. Like France, Belgium offers a vast array of cheeses. While the variety is impressive, I find that many of them taste quite similar to me. Nonetheless, exploring these cheeses can be a delightful experience for any cheese enthusiast, offering a taste of the rich culinary traditions of Belgium. The opportunity to sample different flavors and textures adds another layer of enjoyment to the vibrant food scene in this beautiful country. The plazas in Belgium are truly enchanting, especially when the buildings are illuminated with beautiful colors. The atmosphere is vibrant, with well-dressed people gathering to enjoy the lively surroundings. The narrow city roads add to the charm, and it's noticeable how few cars there are, making the plazas more pedestrian-friendly.
It's a delightful experience to see such well-maintained public spaces where people can stroll, socialize, and soak in the beauty of the city. The blend of historic architecture and modern amenities creates a unique ambiance that makes these gatherings special.
Plazas in Europe and in South America are popular places to gather and socialize. During the weekend, it si full of activies where locals and tourist gather to unwind and have fun. Parking is fairly cheap just like any where in europe.
Plazas in Europe, much like in South America, are popular places to gather and socialize. During weekends, they are bustling with activities, offering a vibrant mix of locals and tourists coming together to unwind and have fun. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by street performers, local markets, and various cultural events that add to the charm.
Parking is fairly cheap, similar to other parts of Europe, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy these communal spaces. The blend of history, culture, and social interaction makes these plazas a central part of city life, where you can experience the true essence of the local community.
The brick-paved alleys along the plazas are incredibly inviting, lined with an array of food places offering everything from street food to fine dining. These charming pathways are perfect for leisurely strolls, allowing you to sample delicious local cuisine and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Additionally, you'll find unique shops where you can buy unusual souvenirs. These hidden gems offer a variety of one-of-a-kind items that make perfect mementos of your trip. The combination of delightful food and interesting shopping experiences adds to the allure of exploring these picturesque alleys.
Belgium, like much of Europe, is rich in stunning architecture and beautiful cathedrals. Brussels, in particular, boasts its fair share of these magnificent structures. The city's architectural marvels are complemented by its impressive array of museums. Some of the most popular ones include:
Musical Instruments Museum: A treasure trove for music enthusiasts, featuring a vast collection of instruments from around the world.
AutoWorld: A paradise for car lovers, showcasing an extensive collection of vintage and classic cars.
Atomium: An iconic building and museum, offering unique exhibitions and breathtaking views of Brussels.
These museums provide a deep dive into various aspects of art, history, and science, making Brussels a culturally enriching destination.
You could indeed spend hours marveling at the intricate designs and craftsmanship of these structures. The attention to detail and the sheer artistry involved are truly mesmerizing. It's fascinating to think about the preservation techniques and the rich history that goes into maintaining these architectural masterpieces.
The dedication to preserving these monuments ensures that future generations can continue to admire and learn from them. Each building and cathedral tells a story of its time, capturing the essence of the era in which it was built. It's a testament to human ingenuity and creativity, standing the test of time and inspiring awe in all who behold them.
Exploring these sites provides a deep appreciation for the historical and cultural significance they hold. It's like taking a step back in time, immersing yourself in the legacy of the past while celebrating the enduring beauty of these structures.
The best way to commute in Belgian cities is by tram or bus. If you're planning to stay for a week, these are your go-to options. A 24-hour pass costs around $8, and a weekly pass is in the $40 range. Public transportation in Europe and South America is generally very efficient, making it easy to get around without a car.
Driving in Europe is manageable, but it's often out of the question in Asia and South America due to different road conditions and traffic patterns. Embracing the local public transport options can enhance your travel experience and help you navigate the city smoothly.
Street parking is permitted in some places on both sides of the road in Belgium. However, unlike in America, the roads are much narrower, requiring drivers to be extra vigilant. The passage can be so tight that if a parked car door is opened, it can almost hit you, which makes navigating these streets quite challenging. It's essential to drive carefully and be aware of your surroundings to avoid any mishaps. This unique aspect of driving in Europe adds to the overall charm and experience of exploring the cities.
Antwerp is indeed renowned as the diamond capital of the world. This vibrant city in Belgium has a rich history in the diamond trade, with over 80% of the world's rough diamonds passing through its diamond district.
The city is home to the Antwerp World Diamond Centre, which plays a crucial role in the global diamond industry. Visitors can explore the diamond district, where countless diamond dealers, jewelers, and workshops are located, offering a unique glimpse into this fascinating trade.
The Diamond Museum in Antwerp is another must-visit, showcasing the history and craftsmanship behind these precious gems. Whether you're a diamond enthusiast or just curious, Antwerp provides an unparalleled experience into the world of diamonds.
It's truly amazing how this city has maintained its status as the diamond capital, attracting traders and enthusiasts from all over the globe. 💎
Belgium's multilingual nature is truly fascinating, reflecting its diverse cultural and historical influences. This blend of languages—Dutch, French, and German—adds to the richness of the country's identity and makes it a unique place to visit. English is widely spoken in Belgium, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. This makes it easier for visitors to communicate and navigate, ensuring that language is not a significant barrier.
It's always nice to know that you can easily ask for directions, order food, or have a conversation with locals in English, enhancing the overall travel experience.
The ability to switch between languages so effortlessly is something that makes Belgium stand out. It's always a pleasure to experience this linguistic diversity firsthand, whether you're exploring the charming streets of Brussels, the scenic beauty of Wallonia, or the vibrant culture of Flanders.
Have you had a chance to experience the multilingual charm of Belgium yourself? If so, what did you find most intriguing?
Traveling can indeed be a challenge when it comes to planning and budgeting. It's great that you're always on the lookout for new and exciting destinations. Exploring places like Belgium, with its unique charm and rich history, can certainly be inspiring.
I hope my insights and suggestions help make your travel planning a bit easier and more enjoyable. Sometimes, a little inspiration is all it takes to spark the next adventure. Happy travels, and may your journeys be filled with unforgettable experiences!
If you ever need more travel tips or destination ideas, feel free to ask. I'm here to help you explore the world.
The massive mall with its glass roof is stunning, featuring numerous stores selling Belgian chocolates. Belgium is world-renowned for its chocolate, and seeing the displays and the passion for chocolate-making is truly impressive. Belgian chocolate comes in a wide variety of flavors and fillings. From classic dark and milk chocolates to innovative creations with exotic ingredients, there's something for every taste. Some of the most famous chocolate brands, including: Godiva, Leonidas, Neuhaus and Pierre Marcolini just to name a few. These brands are celebrated for their high-quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and a wide variety of flavors and fillings. Whether you're a fan of classic pralines, rich truffles, or innovative chocolate creations, Belgian chocolate has something to offer every chocolate lover. One of the best parts about visiting chocolate shops in Belgium is the ability to sample the chocolates before making a purchase. It allows you to explore a variety of flavors and find your favorites.
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