Travel Blog – Trip guides and travel tips

Famous for eurocats, mussels, beer and chocolate, Brussels is the political mecca in a country few people know anything about. This isn’t helped by a distinct lack of famous Belgians,  Jean-Claude Van Damme aside of course. It seems Jean Claude may in fact be an endangered species.

I went in search of things to do in Brussels that didn’t involve beer drinking and while there is indeed  spectacular architecture, a pretty Parc de Bruxelles and first class museums, I couldn’t help but gravitate to the bars.

If you are looking for things to do in Brussels, set aside a couple of days for sightseeing and general relaxation  – it is not a sprawling city and can be covered relatively quickly.

When to Go

The climate in this part of Europe rarely goes to extremes, whether that be hot or cold. All year round, temperatures are moderate both in winter and in summer, making Brussels a popular city break destination from January to December.

Belgian Language

You’d be excused for being a bit confused about the Belgian language. Bilingual Brussels is in Flemish speaking Flanders, yet the majority of the population speak French. The city is home to Europeans, Moroccans, Turks and Africans. Most Africans originate from the former Belgian colony of Congo.

Exploding iPods

Being the hub of  European politics, Brussles is always in the news. The EU parliament situated in the European Quarter is hard to miss and has the most striking modern architecture I have ever seen. Daring modern designs seem to court controversy and this is the mother of all talking points – just ask a Belgian taxi driver.

If you are concerned about your exploding ipod this summer,  rest assured the EU parliament is on the case – all 27 countries have been asked to report their finding on the gadgets that are apparently exploding in the sun. And you thought politics was boring!

Belgian Beer

Belgium produces between 500 and 800 brews, most of which is considered strong by any one’s standards. If you fancy a challenge and have a reputation for having hollow legs, try a Marlin for size, at 9% it separates the men from the boys.

Central Brussels is made up of the Upper Town and Lower Town and it is through these charming streets I discovered one fine pub after another. When the weather is good, relax at one of the many street facing tables and watch the world go by.

The Belgians

Belgians love their monarchy but have  strong dislike for rules  – which may strike you as a bit of a dichotomy. But thankfully their often severe expressions only mask a keen sense of humour that is friendly and at times cheeky. The Mannekin Pis, a stature of a naked boy having a pee pretty much says it all, especially when he is adorned with a variety of costumes.

My Defining Experience

I enjoyed wandering around the Musee Horta, buying some gifts on the Avenue Louise and exploring the stylish Ixelles’ Art Nouveau streets. Because Brussels is quite small, you can expect to retrace your steps. If, however, you are content to sip a few beers and dine on fabulous steaks or amazing mussels, satisfaction is guaranteed.

Strengths

• Museums
• Restaurants
• Grand Place
• Beer
• Waffles
• Chocolate
• Parc de Bruxelles
• Art Nouveau Ixelles

Weaknesses

• Dogs’ dirt
• Expensive restaurants
• Weather

Belgium has played the starring role  in numerous films, including: Far West, Meisje, Plenty and err, that’s about it, I think.