Aug 12 2011
Brussels – Prominent Waffles, Lovely Architecture, And Good Memories
Brussels has a long history. Working as an important fortress in the 10th century, it’s evolved over the centuries into a very significant world city. Brussels is actually the largest city in Belgium with around two million people calling the city home. This, along with its vast influence in the economy of Europe and it’s location, it’s a city full of different cultures, making it a great spot for a vacation. Just be sure to get a new US passport before you leave.
Getting a passport is a breeze with expedited United States passport pages services. Not only do you get to apply for your passport online, but you also get it as quickly as you need it. It definitely beats having to drive to the post office, wait in line, fill out the confusing paperwork, and then wait 8-14 weeks on top of that for it to be delivered. Other services are available too. For instance, you can get expedited passport pages for your current passport if you are running low, something that is important to consider, as many places won’t allow you entry if you don’t have enough blank pages.
Deciding on in a place in which to get your adventure started can be daunting, but look no further than Grand-Place. Grand-Place is Brussels’ central square, and it is actually an official UNESCO World Heritage Site as well. Once you step into the square, you will be surrounded by buildings three centuries old. Of course you can expect to experience shopping in authentic Belgian stores, as well as opportunities to sample some Belgian cuisine (including famous Belgian waffles), to do a little people-watching, and to see some very important Belgian landmarks. One of the most famous landmarks in Belgium, and one of the most famous statues in the world, is Mannekin Pis, a 17th century bronze statue of a young boy peeing into the fountain he stands on.
While you’re in Place-Royal, consider stopping by Musee Rene Magritte, one of the more popular museums in Brussels. Rene Magritte is a surrealist artist, and more than 200 pieces of his art, presented in various mediums, fill up this interesting museum. The Museum des Sciences Naturelles is another popular museum. This museum explains the natural history of Belgium, and it’s dinosaur exhibit is famous. The Musee des Instruments de Musique, or the Musical Instruments Museum, is as interesting to explore as it is beautiful on the outside. With more than 7000 musical instruments on display, ranging from ordinary to weird, it’s a great way to learn a little bit about Brussels.
Beer is an integral component to Belgian culture. If consider yourself a lover of fine brews, definitely stop by the Cantillon Brewery. Well-known around Brussels for their fresh and delicious beer, this traditional brewery also offers a fun and interesting tour. Not to mention there are free samples involved. As you’re leaving, be sure to pick up a case (or two) of their flavored beers.
There are so many sides to Belgian culture, and getting to visit and experience a little bit of this conglomeration is among the best things about Brussels. Don’t forget to get your new passport before you leave. Remember to make sure you have enough pages too. If not, get expedited American passport pages online.
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