Brussels & Bruges

Travel by ILIAS on Jul 23, 2009

There isn’t a better feeling when you don’t aim for much on a business trip and it turns out to be one of the best ever. Visiting Belgium wasn’t on top of my priorities but judging from the days I had there, I think I have found another nominee city for my retirement days.

Brussels

I arrived around noon in the hotel and there was almost absolutely no one on the metro. Where had everybody gone? The pretty receptionist replied that today it was the national holiday for Belgium; she gave me a map and showed me where everyone was. I rushed there and came up with this…

It appeared that I’ve missed the parade, but the whole city was out to celebrate and the party was about to end late at midnight. All I needed was beer!!! Pictures speak for themselves.

Bruges

A couple of friends had told me that since I’m visiting Belgium, I should definitely visit Bruges, since it’s been called Venice of the North. The city was only one hour away from Brussels on train anyway. To cut a long story short, I loved this city. The small canals, the houses in and between, made me feel as if I was in Amsterdam (best city I’ve visited ever). The old town is simply prefect. Huge churches everywhere, small roads, people smiling and ready to help you, I felt so warm there and really like being at home.