A-Z Top 2 Countries||Brazil Vs Belgium Pt 2
Last Monday you may remember I published a short destination guide all about Brazil (well mainly Rio) you can catch up with it here. I am now going to finish off that post by bringing you another short guide but this time it is all about Belgium. I wont be focusing on the capital city Brussels too much, as I will be doing a detailed 'Tuesday Travel Guide' post all about it in a couple of weeks time, instead I am going to focus on a few other places you might like to consider, places that are not as familiar perhaps? So lets get started on part 2 of our Brazil vs Belgium adventure shall we?
Belgium||The Facts
Belgium is located in West Europe, it is quite a multicultural country even though it is quite small in size. It has two main official languages and is home to two major groups, you have the Dutch speaking, mostly the Flemish community and then you also have the French speaking mostly located in the Walloon area of the country. There is also a tiny minority who speak German found primarily in the High Fens area (and bordering Germany). The population of Belgium is currently at around 11 Million and the capital city is Brussels.
Belgium is more commonly known for its heavy involvement with the EU (The European Union) and many major international organizations I.e NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) both of which have their headquarters in Brussels.
 |
| Photo Credit: flags.net |
Brussels
As mentioned above the capital city of Belgium is Brussels, Brussels has a population of 175,534 people living there as of Jan 2015. Brussels consists of the Central Historic Town and some additional areas outside primarily Haren, Laeken and Neder-Over-Heembeek in the north and Bois de la Cambre Park to the south.
Brussels is known to tourists especially for its food and drink delicacies. The main being its local waffle, Chocolate, French Fries and its numerous types of Beer. (They love a good Beer festival in Belgium) The Brussel Sprout (vegetable) has also long been popular in the country and may have originated here (hence the name).
 |
| Photo Credit: belgiumtheplacetobe |
 |
| Photo Credit:Dreamstime |
I think the waffles and beer alone makes Belgium a must see of 2016 don't you?
Brussels is also very artistic, you can find around 80 Museums in the city some must see's are: Museum of the City of Brussels, Magritte Museum (Royal Museum of Fine Arts), Comics Art Museum, MIM-Musical Instrument Museum.
There are heaps more waiting to be discovered.
There are heaps more waiting to be discovered.
 |
| Photo Credit: travelocafe |
Brussels has several Universities, the two main are called the 'Universite Libre Bruxelles' which is a French-speaking city and has three main campus' located in Brussels-Capital-Region, Lxelles and Anderlech it has 12 faculties that cover all disciplines, and then you have the Dutch-speaking University called 'Vrije Universiteit Brussel' and can be found in the Etterbeek part of the city, it is a lot smaller than the first mentioned but offers courses in Law, Economics, Psychology, most of the Science's and Engineering amongst others. Both equally as interesting architecturally if you ask me.
 |
| 'Universite Libre Bruxelles' Photo Credit: Utoronto |
 |
| 'Vrije Universiteit Brussel' Photo Credit: wiki |
Bruges
Located around an hour and a half's drive from the bustling capital we have the more relaxed but equally as enticing Bruges. You can of course do this journey via train which will take you only 55 minutes which in my opinion is the far better option. Bruge is a historic centre and is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The thing that I personally love about Bruge is that the city centre is closed off to cars, most people explore on foot (watch out for the cobble streets), or boat along the canals. Bruge might be small in size but it certainly packs a punch. It is filled to the brim with artistic gems, chocolate shops, boutiques and fine restaurants.
If you are visiting Bruge you must see The Beguinages (also on the UNESCO World Heritage list) it is the home of the nuns of the order of Saint Benedict.
If beer is your thing you have come to the right place, there is beer everywhere in Belgium, why not visit the Halve Maan Brewery, which is a family owned brewery and creator of the famously well known 'Brugse Zot' beer.
(See Sightseeing for more info)
 |
| Photo Credit: Panoramio |
If beer is your thing you have come to the right place, there is beer everywhere in Belgium, why not visit the Halve Maan Brewery, which is a family owned brewery and creator of the famously well known 'Brugse Zot' beer.
(See Sightseeing for more info)
 |
| Photo Credit: Probuswines/Wordpress |
Antwerp
Antwerp is the second largest city in Belgium. It is situated on the River Scheldt and is also home to Europe's second largest Sea Port it is also amongst the worlds top 10 busiest (Tours are available).The city is known as 'The Diamond City' because of its involvement in the Diamond industry (more than 70% of all Diamonds are traded in Antwerp).
The city itself is divided into 9 districts, you have Antwerp, Berchem, Berendrech- Zandvillet-Lillo, Borgerhout, Deurne, Ekeren, Hobcken, Merksem and Wilirikj.
Most parts of the city are safe, but some neighbourhoods can feel less so (just like any city really) the spots to beware of especially if you are a female solo traveller, or walking about at night alone are: The area around De Coninckplein and the neighbourhoods of Borgerhout, Seefhoek and the Schipperskwartier. These neighbourhoods are very lively and well worth a visit if you are there during the day or in a larger group.
Be particularly on guard if you are travelling at Antwerp's Central Station as there are teams of pickpockets operating in the area, they have been reported to use young children to distract their targets so take care here. On average 15 incidents of pickpocketing are reported daily so look after all valuables. Or call 112 (emergency number) if you are in serious danger.
Antwerp is also described as a 'rising fashion city' due to the popular Royal Academy of Fine Arts, which is one of the most important fashion academies in Europe.
Ghent
Ghent is a 30 minute train ride to the capital, It is an old historical town in the north west of the country, during the middle ages it was one of the richest and most powerful cities of Europe. It is the third largest city in Belgium.
However today Ghent has been described as 'the new Bruge' by Lonely Planet and is becoming ever more popular. The town is home to a University 'Ghent University' as well, so more and more young people are coming here to study, they fall in love with the that most eventually settle here too, and with only a 30 minute train ride into Brussels and 40 minutes by car to Antwerp it really is no wonder why more and more people are choosing to up sticks and move here- it is also visually stunning.
The city holds a 10 day celebration every year in July where the locals go all out with a mixture of theatre performances, concerts, singing, dancing and of course drinking.
Where to Stay||Hotels
Below I am going to give you a guide of the most luxurious hotels to stay in if you are visiting Bruge, Antwerp or Ghent this year. All hotels are 5 star rated and located as close as possible to the city centres. I am going to pick the hotel based on the best rating on the website. The site I will be using is Booking.com.
Bruge
There are 6 5 star hotels to choose from in Bruge on the booking.com website the one with the best review (9.8) is actually not a hotel but a B&B (there are lots of high rated B&B's in Bruge and most opt to stay in these) called 'B&B La Masion Bruges' this 5 roomed B&B is located a mear 0.6 miles from the city centre. It is right next to the Graaf Visart Park. Other attractions which are near are Market Square (which is 0.6 miles away), The Belfry of Bruges is also not far (0.7 miles away). The closet airport to the hotel is Oostende which is 18.6 miles away.
The hotel is close to transport links into the city centre, there is a bus stop at the front of the hotel you can use to access city centre or the central train station.
Antwerp
The 5 star hotel with the best review rating in Antwerp is called 'Maison Nationale City Flats & Suites' this is based on results taken from 7, 5 star hotels in the city. This hotel received a high review score of 9.5.
The 'Maison Nationale' is located in the Antwerp district. Just 400 yards away from The Cathedral of our Lady, Groenplaats Square and Town Square. Nationale Straat is just 100 yards away also.
The suites are all modernly furnished and very stylish it says on the website the 'accommodation features design elements'. The suites come with a living room plus a flat screen TV and Mini bar. They also come with baths and showers, free toiletries and a hair dryer, Free Wi-fi is available in all rooms as well.
The choice of rooms include:
Superior Suite £117.00 per suite (Sleeps 2)
Loft Suite £123.00 per suite (Sleeps 2)
Deluxe Suite £131.00 per suite (Sleeps 2)
Penthouse Suite £139.00 per suite (Sleeps 2)
There is a small kitchenette area complete with a coffee machine, electric kettle, a microwave, a fridge and various kitchenware. Breakfast can also be reserved upon request.
Supermarkets, Restaurants, Bars and shops are all less than a 5 minute walk from the suite. If you are looking to get even further out of town Antwerp Central Station is just 1.4 miles away.
Ghent
The Hotel I have picked in Ghent based on the reviews is another B&B this time located in the Zwijnaarde area of Ghent. The 5 star B&B is called B&B Au Grenier. According to the website it has a rating of 9.8. This mansion guest house is not actually in Ghent it just on the outskirts (approx 5 miles away) but very easy to get from the hotel.
The accommodation at the B&B is bright, modern and spacious and you have two options to choose from either at double room which is £95.00 per night or a suite which is £123.00 per night, both rooms sleep up to 2 people.
If you choose the double room you will get a seating area with a flat screen TV, an electric kettle and Coffee machine. The bathroom comes with a shower, slippers, a hair dryer and free toiletries are all provided. You also will receive free full use of the outdoor private heated swimming pool.
The suit is a lot spacious than the double room. This suite comes with all the amenities of the double room and more, for example if you book the suite you will get a garden view/pool view with your own balcony. A full equipped kitchen with a washing machine, Oven, Toaster and a Barbecue outside. It also comes with a fire place in the living room area- perfect for those cold cosy nights in.
Both rooms come with free wi-fi.
If you would like to read some review on this property head over to TripAdvisor now.
Sightseeing
Now we are on to my favourite part... the sights! Here are a few recommendations of things to see as a tourist in Belgium.
Bruge
1. Canal Tour
2. Church of our Lady
3. Beguinage
4. Belfry of Bruge
5. Provinciaal Hof
Antwerp
1. Rubenshuis
2. Cathedral of our Lady
3. Antwerp City Hall
4. Antwerp Central Station
5. Royal Academy of Fine Arts
Ghent
1. Ghent City Centre
2. St Michael's bridge
3.Belfry
4.Ghent Town Hall
5.Vrijdagmarkt
Best Places to Eat||Restaurants
There is quite a few different types of restaurants in Belgium to suit all budgets here are a few example of nice places you can find in each city.
Bruge
I have found the number 1 rather restaurant in Bruge, and it is called 'Park Restaurant'. Located in the city centre this amazing family run (two brothers) restaurant which opened in 1989 is one not to be missed. The style is described as 'old fashion wining and dining' and the food served is old classics using fresh modern ingredients. The menu's look simple, yet they are packed full of flavour.
Stand out dishes:
1. Cocktail glass filled with grey North Seashrimps, small salad and mayonnaise.
2. Beef Fillet in Red Wine Sauce, Vegetables and Gratin Dauphinois.
3. Chocolate Mousse
Antwerp
Antwerp has some very trendy restaurants, to reflect its cosmopolitan style one place that I would love to try if I was in Antwerp would be, 'InVINcible: Restaurant and Wine Bar' which is featured in the Michelin Guide Restaurant 2016.
Located in the heart of the this historical city lies a 6 tabled restaurant and wine bar called 'InVINcible'. Dishes are made from some of the most expensive ingredients in the country and the price often reflects this. If you are looking for traditional food with a twist this is definitely the place for you.
Ghent
In Ghent you will find something to suite everyone's tastes I especially want to try 'Paul's Boutique' (not to be confused with the designer/brand). Located in the city centre surrounded by the hustle and bustle lies this cosy little restaurant, which is famous for its delicious burgers and fries. They also cater very well for the vegetarian's amongst us- there's an abundance of vege options to choose from, 9 different options to be more precise including the Feta Pesto and the Tofu Caprese. Meat eaters get the choice of 11 options.
Beef Burgers of course arent the only things served up here. You can also opt for a succulent Chicken Burger, or even Fish. You also have a choice of delicious Bruchetta's, healthy Salads or Appetizers to start. The drinks menu isn't bad either.
Stand out Dish:
Starter/Appetizer:
Mozzarella Sticks (with sauce)
Main:
Paris Texas (Cheese) 100% Irish Beef Burger
with Fresh Fries
So that brings me to the end of another great post. I hope I have given you lots of great places to put on your bucket lists if you are planning to spend some time here in Belgium. I hope you enjoyed reading all about Brazil in the first half of this post too.
Writers Verdict: Both countries have their positives and their negatives. Belgium has however surprised me a lot. I had lots of pre-conceptions before starting this guide and now I have finished it I can see all the positives and wish I didn't judge the country based on what I have read/seen in the media.
I knew before starting this guide that I would love Brazil (I always have) and that I would want to visit it, I guess writing about it and learning new things about it has made me want to visit it more. I know it is not going to be possible this year BUT I am hoping one day in the future I will get to sunbathe on Copacobana beach.
Antwerp is the second largest city in Belgium. It is situated on the River Scheldt and is also home to Europe's second largest Sea Port it is also amongst the worlds top 10 busiest (Tours are available).The city is known as 'The Diamond City' because of its involvement in the Diamond industry (more than 70% of all Diamonds are traded in Antwerp).
The city itself is divided into 9 districts, you have Antwerp, Berchem, Berendrech- Zandvillet-Lillo, Borgerhout, Deurne, Ekeren, Hobcken, Merksem and Wilirikj.
 |
| Photo Credit: Skyscrappercity |
Most parts of the city are safe, but some neighbourhoods can feel less so (just like any city really) the spots to beware of especially if you are a female solo traveller, or walking about at night alone are: The area around De Coninckplein and the neighbourhoods of Borgerhout, Seefhoek and the Schipperskwartier. These neighbourhoods are very lively and well worth a visit if you are there during the day or in a larger group.
Be particularly on guard if you are travelling at Antwerp's Central Station as there are teams of pickpockets operating in the area, they have been reported to use young children to distract their targets so take care here. On average 15 incidents of pickpocketing are reported daily so look after all valuables. Or call 112 (emergency number) if you are in serious danger.
 |
| Photo Credit: Wiki |
Antwerp is also described as a 'rising fashion city' due to the popular Royal Academy of Fine Arts, which is one of the most important fashion academies in Europe.
Ghent
 |
| Photo Credit: Routes.Tips |
Ghent is a 30 minute train ride to the capital, It is an old historical town in the north west of the country, during the middle ages it was one of the richest and most powerful cities of Europe. It is the third largest city in Belgium.
However today Ghent has been described as 'the new Bruge' by Lonely Planet and is becoming ever more popular. The town is home to a University 'Ghent University' as well, so more and more young people are coming here to study, they fall in love with the that most eventually settle here too, and with only a 30 minute train ride into Brussels and 40 minutes by car to Antwerp it really is no wonder why more and more people are choosing to up sticks and move here- it is also visually stunning.
The city holds a 10 day celebration every year in July where the locals go all out with a mixture of theatre performances, concerts, singing, dancing and of course drinking.
 |
| Photo Credit: Ghent University |
Where to Stay||Hotels
Below I am going to give you a guide of the most luxurious hotels to stay in if you are visiting Bruge, Antwerp or Ghent this year. All hotels are 5 star rated and located as close as possible to the city centres. I am going to pick the hotel based on the best rating on the website. The site I will be using is Booking.com.
Bruge
There are 6 5 star hotels to choose from in Bruge on the booking.com website the one with the best review (9.8) is actually not a hotel but a B&B (there are lots of high rated B&B's in Bruge and most opt to stay in these) called 'B&B La Masion Bruges' this 5 roomed B&B is located a mear 0.6 miles from the city centre. It is right next to the Graaf Visart Park. Other attractions which are near are Market Square (which is 0.6 miles away), The Belfry of Bruges is also not far (0.7 miles away). The closet airport to the hotel is Oostende which is 18.6 miles away.
The hotel is close to transport links into the city centre, there is a bus stop at the front of the hotel you can use to access city centre or the central train station.
 |
| All photos taken from Booking.com |
As mentioned previously it only has 5 rooms (examples above), so very quiet and perfect for a relaxing peaceful weekend away with your other half. Each room comes with a flat screen TV, showers in the bathroom, complimentary bath robes and slippers as well as free toiletries. There is also free Wi-fi in all rooms.
Rooms start from £78.00 pn for a standard double room.
There are 7 reviews on trip advisor at this hotel please read here for more.
The 5 star hotel with the best review rating in Antwerp is called 'Maison Nationale City Flats & Suites' this is based on results taken from 7, 5 star hotels in the city. This hotel received a high review score of 9.5.
The 'Maison Nationale' is located in the Antwerp district. Just 400 yards away from The Cathedral of our Lady, Groenplaats Square and Town Square. Nationale Straat is just 100 yards away also.
The suites are all modernly furnished and very stylish it says on the website the 'accommodation features design elements'. The suites come with a living room plus a flat screen TV and Mini bar. They also come with baths and showers, free toiletries and a hair dryer, Free Wi-fi is available in all rooms as well.
 |
| Photo Credit: booking.com |
Superior Suite £117.00 per suite (Sleeps 2)
Loft Suite £123.00 per suite (Sleeps 2)
Deluxe Suite £131.00 per suite (Sleeps 2)
Penthouse Suite £139.00 per suite (Sleeps 2)
 |
| Photo Credit: Booking.com |
 |
| Photo Credit: Booking.com |
There is a small kitchenette area complete with a coffee machine, electric kettle, a microwave, a fridge and various kitchenware. Breakfast can also be reserved upon request.
Supermarkets, Restaurants, Bars and shops are all less than a 5 minute walk from the suite. If you are looking to get even further out of town Antwerp Central Station is just 1.4 miles away.
The Hotel I have picked in Ghent based on the reviews is another B&B this time located in the Zwijnaarde area of Ghent. The 5 star B&B is called B&B Au Grenier. According to the website it has a rating of 9.8. This mansion guest house is not actually in Ghent it just on the outskirts (approx 5 miles away) but very easy to get from the hotel.
 |
| Photo Credit: Booking.com |
The accommodation at the B&B is bright, modern and spacious and you have two options to choose from either at double room which is £95.00 per night or a suite which is £123.00 per night, both rooms sleep up to 2 people.
If you choose the double room you will get a seating area with a flat screen TV, an electric kettle and Coffee machine. The bathroom comes with a shower, slippers, a hair dryer and free toiletries are all provided. You also will receive free full use of the outdoor private heated swimming pool.
 |
| Photo Credit: Bedandbreakfast.eu |
The suit is a lot spacious than the double room. This suite comes with all the amenities of the double room and more, for example if you book the suite you will get a garden view/pool view with your own balcony. A full equipped kitchen with a washing machine, Oven, Toaster and a Barbecue outside. It also comes with a fire place in the living room area- perfect for those cold cosy nights in.
Both rooms come with free wi-fi.
 |
| Photo Credit: booking.com |
If you would like to read some review on this property head over to TripAdvisor now.
Sightseeing
Now we are on to my favourite part... the sights! Here are a few recommendations of things to see as a tourist in Belgium.
Bruge
1. Canal Tour
 |
| Photo Credit: Svsolstice |
2. Church of our Lady
 |
| Photo Credit: historvius |
3. Beguinage
 |
| Photo Credit: Unesco |
4. Belfry of Bruge
 |
| Photo Credit: Wiki |
5. Provinciaal Hof
 |
| Photo Credit: Wiki |
1. Rubenshuis
 |
| Photo Credit: Art7d |
2. Cathedral of our Lady
 |
| Photo Credit: droscher |
3. Antwerp City Hall
 |
| Photo Credit: Wiki |
4. Antwerp Central Station
 |
| Photo Credit: cpanwterpen |
5. Royal Academy of Fine Arts
 |
| Photo Credit: Wiki |
Ghent
1. Ghent City Centre
 |
| Photo Credit:Stepupsmartcities |
2. St Michael's bridge
 |
| Photo Credit: Fineartamerica |
3.Belfry
 |
| Photo Credit: Flickr |
4.Ghent Town Hall
 |
| Photo Credit: Distant Sojourns |
5.Vrijdagmarkt
 |
| Photo Credit: screenflanders.be |
Best Places to Eat||Restaurants
There is quite a few different types of restaurants in Belgium to suit all budgets here are a few example of nice places you can find in each city.
Bruge
I have found the number 1 rather restaurant in Bruge, and it is called 'Park Restaurant'. Located in the city centre this amazing family run (two brothers) restaurant which opened in 1989 is one not to be missed. The style is described as 'old fashion wining and dining' and the food served is old classics using fresh modern ingredients. The menu's look simple, yet they are packed full of flavour.
 |
| Photo Credit: Tripadvisor |
Stand out dishes:
1. Cocktail glass filled with grey North Seashrimps, small salad and mayonnaise.
2. Beef Fillet in Red Wine Sauce, Vegetables and Gratin Dauphinois.
3. Chocolate Mousse
 |
| Photo Credit: Trip Advisor |
Antwerp
Antwerp has some very trendy restaurants, to reflect its cosmopolitan style one place that I would love to try if I was in Antwerp would be, 'InVINcible: Restaurant and Wine Bar' which is featured in the Michelin Guide Restaurant 2016.
Located in the heart of the this historical city lies a 6 tabled restaurant and wine bar called 'InVINcible'. Dishes are made from some of the most expensive ingredients in the country and the price often reflects this. If you are looking for traditional food with a twist this is definitely the place for you.
 |
| Photo Credit: be-gusto |
Ghent
 |
| Photo Credit: offical website |
Beef Burgers of course arent the only things served up here. You can also opt for a succulent Chicken Burger, or even Fish. You also have a choice of delicious Bruchetta's, healthy Salads or Appetizers to start. The drinks menu isn't bad either.
Stand out Dish:
Starter/Appetizer:
Mozzarella Sticks (with sauce)
Main:
Paris Texas (Cheese) 100% Irish Beef Burger
with Fresh Fries
 |
| Photo Credit: Reisgenie |
So that brings me to the end of another great post. I hope I have given you lots of great places to put on your bucket lists if you are planning to spend some time here in Belgium. I hope you enjoyed reading all about Brazil in the first half of this post too.
Writers Verdict: Both countries have their positives and their negatives. Belgium has however surprised me a lot. I had lots of pre-conceptions before starting this guide and now I have finished it I can see all the positives and wish I didn't judge the country based on what I have read/seen in the media.
I knew before starting this guide that I would love Brazil (I always have) and that I would want to visit it, I guess writing about it and learning new things about it has made me want to visit it more. I know it is not going to be possible this year BUT I am hoping one day in the future I will get to sunbathe on Copacobana beach.
Comments
Post a Comment