Travel Destination: Belgium
About Belgium
Belgium can be described like their famous export, the Belgian chocolate. Although a bite is never enough, you are thankful that you had some but you are keen in having more. And that is exactly how you would feel when you explore this country.
Belgium is in northwest Europe, a highly urbanized place with three official languages, Dutch, French and German. Lovers of food, art, architecture, beer, belfries, beguinages, shrines, family fun, castles, gardens and gay travel have plenty of discoveries to savour.
The northern part, the Flanders or the Flemish Region, is the Dutch speaking part of Belgium and the residents are called Flemings. Its biggest cities are Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, Leuven and Mechelen. Alone or in a group, touring Antwerp can take you to the magnificence of its medieval past. Walk through the narrow streets, pass by the Renaissance town hall, see the famous Cathedral of Our Lady with its Gothic steeple and get enchanted with the Vlaeykensgang, a 16th century inner yard. In Bruges, romance is in the air so don’t miss out on the boat ride that will take you sight seeing along its quiet canals, traverse the cobblestone streets on a carriage and explore their chocolates shops and lace boutiques. The Flemish beguinages, an architectural and cultural treasure that dates back to the Middle Ages, are in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The southern part, the Wallonia, is the French speaking part of the country although some parts speak German. Hence, the official languages in the Walloon Region are French and German. This side is more laidback but not lacking in places to see. Namur, its capital, has 18th and 19th century residences that were converted to museums particularly the Museum of Ancient Namur Arts and Felicien Rops Museum. The Namur Citadel is the highlight of the visit which was built and rebuilt by many rulers since the 3rd century. For picturesque getaways, a visit to the beautiful villages would prove to be a feast for the senses. Enjoy the flavours of Wallonia, its valleys and rivers as you go to the Aubechies in Beloeil, Celles (where the 11th century Saint Hadelin church is nestled), Chardeneux in Somme-Leuze, Clermont-Sur-Berwinne in Thismister-Clermont and Ny in Hotton where must-see sites are its fountains and caves of a thousand and one nights. Cap your Wallonia journey with a relaxing treat at the town of Spa. As the name suggests, this town is all about spas, health, relaxation and pure bliss. It was the favourite hangout of European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th century. Some even believed that the waters of Spa can relieve pain and minor sickness.
The Brussels Capital Region is described as the de facto capital city of European Union. It is the largest urban area in Belgium and is also dubbed as the ultimate European City. It is very cosmopolitan and yet holds a rich history with 80 museums to explore and historic buildings to appreciate. Shopping is fabulous this side where you can choose between the most well known brands in the world, independent labels and best buys. Soldes and solden are words that you should keep in mind because it means it’s the sale season which is usually in January and July. Fashion boutiques and avant-garde designers are found at Rue Antoine Dansaert Straat. High-end brands are at Avenues Louise. Bargain paradise is the Rue Neuve while the Gallerie St Hubert, an 1847 arcade, houses cafes, luxury stores and theatres.
Touring Belgium can be overwhelming for the language-challenged visitor but come to think of it, you are getting three times the fun, three times the adventure and three times the experience.