Chocolate, beer, art, distinctive cultural – Belgium is the best of the best in Europe. With a long, tenuous history, Belgium attained its nationhood in 1831 and France’s efforts proved fruitful to help Belgium throw out Netherlands and Leopold. Since then, the country has evolved – be it the Parliament, the people or the culture.
The result: Belgium has a strong influence of French culture; some say the best of French inspirations. Due to this foreign influence, Belgium has enjoyed the taste of colonialism by exercising imposing power over a few nations. However, it was only after World War II that the country’s economy took a progressive turn.
Looking at Belgium from a traveler’s eye, the country is fascinating. There is definitely a lot to reveal. Most often under rated, Belgium is a praiseworthy holiday destination. Belgium is well known for its more than 600 varieties of beer, medieval steeples and the great cultural mix. This destination fascinates many travelers. Well known for its exotic lace and chocolates, Belgium has a lot to offer, apart from its rich cultural heritage and art.
The Belgian countryside comprises of herds of cows and red roofed houses. The yellow sunflower fields shock one and all. The capital of Belgium is Brussels, which has dynamism of the café culture and Art Nouveau. It was founded 1000 years ago. While Antwerp and Bruges also have a lot to lure the traveler, the iconic monument of bronze, little boy urinating into a fountain is a sight not to be missed. In addition, if that is not all, the twice-fried French fries and the Surrealist painter Rene Magritte are worth a try.
Brussels is a paradise for food lovers too, a bad meal is seldom found. The hot favorite however remains Les Brassins, that serves more than 50 varieties of brews and classical rabbit stew in flavored beer. After enjoying a sumptuous meal, a walk through the streets and reaching the city’s Art Nouveau seems a great idea.
The studio of the father of Belgian art – Victor Horta, is a rare experience. The exterior structure remains understated, with astonishing details lurking inside. The experience is truly a dream walk, however the area overflowing with visitors brings one back to reality.
The next destination in Belgium must be Burges. Often addressed as the gem of northwest Europe, and Venice of the North, it offers glimpses of pages of history and Flemish architectures. On a side note, UNESCO designated this as a World Heritage centre in 2000. It also enjoyed the prestigious status of being named the cultural capital of Belgium in 2002. The city is ideal for free wanderers with streets showing off Flemish structures. Not to be missed is the climb on the Belfry Tower, and nor are the relaxing boat rides in the breathtaking waterways. This city has all that a traveler asks for – dynamism, friendliness, great art and culture, good food and beer.
And if the historical art and culture has lured heavily in the minds of travelers, they can experience some dazzle in the famous city of Antwerp. The city well known for its diamonds, art and fashion is a great traveler’s destination. This is Europe’s diamond headquarters and the diamond capital of Belgium. Apart from pulling wealth out of dazzling ‘rocks’ the Antwerp’s port is one of the top rated ports in the world adding to the country’s income. A bath by the Antwerp beach is yet another soothing summer retreat – be sure to try it. With live music, games and entertainment, the beach has lots to offer.
No holiday is complete without a bag full of shopping. And a place like Belgium has numerous options to pocket out the cash. Souvenirs, ceramics, hand beaten copperware from Dinant, Belgian chocolate, crystals from Val Saint Lambert, Diamonds from Antwerp, lace from Burges are some of the most shopped items.
Food and drinks is a specialty in Belgium and Moules Frites, Ardenes Sausages, Steomp are some of the most commonly enjoyed delicacies. There is also a ‘round the clock’ flow of spirits and beer. Most hotels include the service tax of about 16% and tipping as always is an individual’s discretion.
Belgium has an interesting past and travelers will always be safe to travel with the correct documents and right set of answers. So before one checks into Belgium or any of its cities, a few must haves would include a basic idea of knowing what you want to do, whether it be knowing where to eat the best food and art, the capability to bargain, and a great traveling spirit.
Though Belgium is a place that can be visited any time during the year, the best season to visit Belgium is between mid April to mid October. The weather is finest during July and August. Some appealing events are also held during this time of the year. The famous Brussels music season sets in April. The month of September on the other hand awaits the Tournai Procession. ‘Ly It’ is a thousand year old procession that takes place on second Sunday of September.
Belgium has a moderate climate overall. There are hardly ant extremes recorded in summers or winters. Rains in Belgium often surprise and a raincoat is necessary. What is remarkable is that there is a heavy downpour more often than expected. The springtime during July and August is best to soak up the sun, while outdoor dinners in evening are soothing. The inland waterways freeze to become play gardens for kids in winters and skiing is often enjoyed in hilly areas, as there is lots of snow.
Thus, Belgium seems an inevitable holiday destination with lots to discover and loads to gather. Belgium is well connected by sea, air and road. Getting there is fast and simple. One can choose various flights or rails to Belgium. Car hire service is equally convenient. Hiring a tour operator is also a good way of getting things organized. A week seems more than enough to cover this fascinating land of tales.
However, if getting there does not seem enough it would be wise to capture the magic into shots and carry them back home. Don’t forget to pick up souvenirs and gifts for loved ones waiting at home.
