Brussels is for social butterflies
Grab your umbrella and head to Brussels if …
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Welcome to Brussels, the city where time seems to have a playful habit of contradicting itself! As you wander through its streets, you'll find yourself in a delightful dance between past and present, where centuries-old Gothic cathedrals stand tall alongside sleek glass skyscrapers, creating a captivating contrast that keeps you guessing at every turn. But that's not all—Brussels is also a vibrant melting pot of cultures, languages, and cuisines, where the bustling energy of the Matongé district collides with the serene charm of the European Quarter, painting a vivid picture of the city's diverse and multifaceted identity. So, whether you're marveling at its architectural wonders or indulging in its culinary delights, Brussels promises to keep you thoroughly entertained with its whimsical blend of contrasts.
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Get ready to giggle your way through Brussels as you embrace your inner child amidst a whirlwind of whimsical wonders! Picture this: you're strolling down cobblestone streets, greeted by the mischievous grin of the Manneken Pis, a cheeky statue that embodies the city's playful spirit. As you wander, tantalizing scents lead you to crispy waffles topped with decadent treats, and rich Belgian chocolate that's almost too beautiful to eat (but you'll manage!). And for a dose of comic relief, dive into the colorful world of beloved characters at the Comic Strip Center. In Brussels, laughter is served with a side of chocolate and waffles, making every moment a delightful adventure for the young and young at heart.
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Step into the surreal side of Brussels, where the city's eccentric charm shines brightest! As you wander through its maze-like streets, prepare to be bewildered by the sight of the whimsical Atomium, a towering structure resembling an oversized iron crystal that's sure to leave you questioning reality. And if that's not enough to tickle your fancy, venture into the peculiar world of the Magritte Museum, where the surrealist master's mind-bending artworks blur the lines between dream and reality. But hold onto your hats, because the oddities don't stop there! Just when you think you've seen it all, stumble upon the quirky delights of the Marolles district's flea market, where you'll unearth treasures from bygone eras amidst a sea of eclectic curiosities. In Brussels, the surreal is simply a way of life, inviting you to embrace the wonderfully weird and embrace the unexpected at every turn.
I lived in Brussels for a year and can say exactly two things about the experience.
1) The rain pours down like it's auditioning for a role in a blockbuster disaster movie, and
2) Socializing is practically a national sport.
Seriously, I've seen more consecutive rainy days there than I've seen sunny ones in a lifetime. But you know what? That's just Mother Nature's way of saying, "Hey, cozy up indoors and make some friends!" If you're not out there mingling with the expat crowd, you're missing out. It's like a giant, never-ending networking event where all you need is rain boots and a cozy spot to crash between social gatherings.
Lonely? Need to expand your circle? Do some prior research and get ready to dive into a whirlwind of waffle-scented adventures and Tintin-esque escapades.
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In Brussels, waffles reign supreme, chocolate flows like rivers, and bureaucrats network like there’s no tomorrow. If you find yourself in this quirky, charming city and you're itching to mingle, fear not! I've got you covered with a list of things to do and see that will have you rubbing elbows with the fine folks of Brussels in no time. And no worries if it rains (and it will). Everything is indoor-friendly.
Brussels is a city that thrives on its unique blend of history, art, and culinary delights. Embrace the multicultural vibe, explore the neighborhoods, and savor the diverse experiences this city has to offer. Let's kick things off at the Grand Place (Grote Markt), where you can marvel at stunning architecture and sip on some hot cocoa. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for its beauty. It is surrounded by opulent guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King's House. The square is a hub of activity, hosting events, flower carpet displays, and light shows throughout the year.
Nearby, marvel at the grandeur of the Royal Palace, an official residence of the Belgian royal family. While you can't enter the royal apartments, the exterior and the surrounding park are worth a visit.
Then, say hi to the infamous Manneken Pis – Brussels' tiniest troublemaker. This little guy has been relieving himself in public since the 17th century, and he's become quite the local celebrity. He's small but packs a punch in terms of symbolism and is a must-see. Don't forget to check out his extensive wardrobe – he's quite the fashionista.
Next up, the Atomium – Brussels' very own giant disco ball! An iconic symbol of Brussels, the Atomium is a unique structure built for the 1958 World Expo. This funky structure is like something out of a sci-fi movie, except it's real and probably not equipped to fend off alien invasions. Explore its shiny spheres representing atoms, and you can explore both permanent and temporary exhibitions inside. The panoramic views from the top sphere are breathtaking.
Time to get surreal at the Magritte Museum. Dive into the mind-bending world of René Magritte's paintings and try to wrap your head around the concept of a pipe that's not a pipe. Warning: staring at too many paintings may cause an existential crisis, but hey, at least you'll have something to talk about at cocktail parties.
Belgium is famous for its comic book heritage, and Brussels pays homage to this art form with over 50 comic strip murals scattered throughout the city. First, a visit to the Belgian Comic Strip Center is a must. Discover the history of comics in Belgium, including iconic characters like Tintin and the Smurfs. For a more laid-back socializing experience, take a leisurely stroll through Brussels' vibrant streets adorned with colorful comic strip murals. Embark on a self-guided tour, striking up conversations with fellow comic book enthusiasts along the way.
Then, the pièce de résistance – the European Parliament. Take a tour and witness democracy in action, or at least in mild disagreement. Marvel at the architecture, wonder how many bureaucrats it takes to change a lightbulb, and contemplate the intricacies of EU legislation while enjoying a chocolate croissant.
If you're still craving more EU action, head to the Parlamentarium – an interactive museum which is the Disneyland of European politics. Dive into interactive exhibits, push buttons labeled "bureaucracy," and see if you can navigate the EU's labyrinthine decision-making process without getting lost. Wrap up your Brussels adventure with a guided walking tour of the EU District. Laugh at jokes about bureaucracy, marvel at the absurdity of it all, and maybe even learn something about European governance along the way.
When the weather is nice (which, let's be honest, is a very rare occurrence in Brussels), grab some snacks and head to one of the city's picturesque parks for a relaxed picnic. Parc du Cinquantenaire and Parc de Bruxelles are popular choices, offering plenty of green space for lounging, reading, people-watching, and engaging in impromptu frisbee matches with strangers. Just remember to pack enough snacks to share – nothing brings people together like a picnic feast.
And for a taste of Brussels' culinary scene, stroll down Rue des Bouchers. This narrow street is lined with restaurants offering traditional Belgian dishes like moules frites (mussels and fries) and carbonnade flamande (beef stew).
Next up, it's time to embark on a chocolate crawl through the city. Brussels takes its chocolate seriously, so be prepared to sample some of the finest cocoa creations known to humanity. Visit iconic chocolatiers like Neuhaus, Leonidas, Pierre Marcolini, and Godiva, where you can stuff your face with pralines and truffles while engaging in spirited debates about which chocolate is superior (spoiler alert: they're all amazing).
For waffles, try Maison Dandoy or Aux Gaufres de Bruxelles, where you can indulge in waffle perfection while striking up conversations with fellow waffle enthusiasts. These aren't just any waffles; they're fluffy clouds of deliciousness topped with anything your heart desires. Trust me, bonding over a shared love of waffles is the fastest way to make friends in Brussels.
Tintin
Now that you've satisfied your sweet tooth, it's time to quench your thirst with Belgium's favorite beverage: beer. Brussels boasts a plethora of cozy pubs and lively beer gardens where you can sip on local brews like a true connoisseur. Now, let's talk beer – specifically, Belgian beer, which is as diverse and confusing as the EU itself. Head to Delirium Café, where you can choose from over 2000 types, or Goupil le Fol (where in addition to beer you can find some great fruity wines). Just be prepared for some interesting conversations after a few rounds!
Whether you're bonding over waffles, debating politics or just the merits of different chocolates, or sharing a beer with newfound friends, one thing's for sure: in Brussels, the socializing never stops. So go forth, explore the city, and immerse yourself in the delightful chaos that is Brussels' social scene.
Have you ventured into the quirky wonderland that is Brussels, where every corner reveals a new surprise waiting to be discovered? Share your tales of chocolate-filled escapades, surreal encounters with Manneken Pis, and whimsical wanders through cobblestone streets below.
Every day presents an open invitation to unravel the magic of our connections and shared escapades in this fabulous world.
