Captivating Belgian Cities and Beyond

As I live in Luxembourg, Belgium is one of my closest neighbors. Besides Germany and France, Belgium is another country I visit often. I have visited a few cities in Belgium. Out of those cities, Blakenberge, Bruges, and the capital city Brussels particularly caught my attention. Whether I'm looking for a quick escape from everyday life or a more extended vacation, Belgium never disappoints with its diverse range of experiences and attractions.

Here goes my bite-sized memories of these three beautiful cities.

Blakenberge

It was a beautiful month of July, with summer in full swing across Europe. The three of us, colleagues turned friends, eagerly embarked on a journey to the picturesque coastal city of Belgium - Blankenberge.

The allure of the sun-kissed beaches, the refreshing sea breeze, and the rich history of Blankenberge beckoned us to explore its treasures.

Upon arriving in Blankenberge, we were immediately captivated by its charm. The clean streets lined with charming cafes, the colorful facades of traditional Belgian houses, and the cheerful laughter of locals created a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

As we kept strolling, the aroma of freshly cooked french fries filled the air, and we couldn't resist indulging. Surprisingly, many people are unaware that French fries were originally invented in Belgium, and being in this culinary paradise, we knew we were in for a treat. The best-in-class French fries awaited us, and with the first bite, I realized what I had been missing my entire life.

As the golden, crispy fries touched my tongue, they delighted my taste buds like never before. Each bite offered a perfect balance of a crunchy exterior and a fluffy, tender interior, making them simply irresistible. It was a revelation - the authentic taste of Belgian fries, unmatched and incomparable to any I had ever tasted.

As we continued towards the beach, our excitement grew, knowing it was the main reason we came here. The best part of our trip was enjoying the lazy sunsets on the sandy shores, soaking up the sun, and playing in the gentle waves. When the day turned into a mesmerizing sunset, we walked along the beach, amazed by the beautiful colors in the sky. With the soft sunset glow, a light breeze, and Atif Aslam's beautiful song "Tajdaar-e-Haram" playing, that sunset became one of my favorite memories. The song blended harmoniously with the natural symphony of the crashing waves and the distant calls of seabirds.

As hunger struck, we found ourselves in a cozy nearby restaurant, eager to try some seafood, especially Belgium's famous mussels. Glancing at the restaurant's menu, I couldn't resist ordering a big bowl of mussels. The dish arrived with fresh, plump mussels immersed in a flavorful and refreshing broth. Each spoonful was a delightful experience, satisfying both my heart and taste buds. With contentment in my heart, and my taste buds thoroughly pleased, I knew I was ready for a restful night's sleep.

The next day, we devoted the entire day to embracing the beach's tranquil atmosphere. After securing a spot, we indulged in pure relaxation, basking in the peaceful surroundings. With my Kindle in hand, I lost myself in a captivating book, accompanied by the soothing sound of the waves.

As the day unfolded, we treated ourselves to refreshing showers right on the beach, immersing ourselves in the invigorating waters. The carefree moments seemed endless as we savored the simple pleasures of life. It was an all-encompassing package, fulfilling our desire for complete serenity and rejuvenation.

After taking a refreshing shower and changing into fresh clothes, we settled down at a charming seaside restaurant, eager to indulge in a delightful array of experiences. Belgium is famous for three things - fries, beer, and waffles. Since I had already tried the fries, it was time to taste the Belgian beer. As I don't drink alcohol, my friends found a great alcohol-free beer for me. It was my first time trying beer, and I had a really great experience.

The rest of the day was all about unwinding and taking it easy. We stumbled upon a top-notch bar, and I decided to order a refreshing Virgin Mojito to savor while admiring the serene sea. The atmosphere was so relaxing and calm, a true escape from the hectic pace of our daily lives. If I ever get the chance to relive that day, I would eagerly seize it with both hands.

Time for the 3rd Great Charm of Belgium - Waffles! Entering another local seaside restaurant, we ordered various versions of waffles and shared them among us. It was freshly cooked, warm, and it filled the air with a delightful aroma. Topped with ice-cream and fruits, they truly proved to be a great Belgian delicacy to relish and enjoy together.

The day came to an end, filled with fun, wonderful memories, and enjoying delicious Belgian treats. As the sunset painted the sky with its beauty, we marveled at the impressive Belgium Pier. Situated along the Belgian coast, it offered stunning views of the North Sea, attracting both locals and tourists. The pier extended gracefully into the sea, providing a perfect place for leisurely walks and various activities. It was the ideal spot to appreciate the sunset's magic and the peacefulness of the sea.

As night fell, the sea embraced a charming vibe. Alluring lights, uplifting music, and soulful laughter filled the air with fun and charm. The following morning, we set off for another splendid city of Belgium and one of my favorites - Bruges. But before departing, we indulged in some shopping, and I got myself a nice pair of black Converse shoes from Jack & Jones, laced in white.

As we bid farewell to Blankenberge, my heart felt a tinge of sadness. The laughter, the camaraderie, and the enchanting moments had painted our souls with the colors of joy, creating an experience I'll forever cherish.

Bruges

Ah, Bruges, my beloved city! Every time I think about my time there, my heart swells with joy. The moment I arrived, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. The picturesque canals, the quaint cobblestone streets, and the majestic historic buildings all seemed like they were straight out of a storybook. It was a dream come true to explore this enchanting place, and every step I took felt like a magical adventure. Bruges holds a special place in my memories, and I'll forever cherish the joy and wonder it brought to my soul.

We started our exploration from the city center, Bruges' delightful Markt Square. Like a beautiful picture from the past, it features grand old buildings adorned with fancy decorations. The bustling atmosphere with market stalls, cozy cafes, and horse-drawn carriages passing by adds to its charm. And there, the tall Belfry tower stands tall, symbolizing the city's rich heritage. Stepping into Markt Square feels like entering a fairytale, where the past and present intertwine in a wonderful way.

Taking a short walk from Markt Square, we arrived at the French Fries Museum. Inside, the museum greeted us with an aroma that instantly made my mouth water. The exhibits showcased the journey of potatoes from the fields to the crispy, golden fries we adore. I learned fascinating facts about the origins of French fries, and discovered unique toppings and sauces.

The best part was undoubtedly the tasting session. I ordered and savored piping hot fries, cooked to crispy perfection, and indulged in various delectable dips.

Before leaving, I couldn't resist bringing home a piece of this unforgettable experience. I purchased a potato-shaped souvenir - to always remind me of the delightful time I spent at the French Fries Museum in Bruges.

Next, we happily set off on a wonderful adventure in the charming Bruges Canal District. As we walked on the cobbled streets, we saw how the canals looked like beautiful mirrors, reflecting the old buildings and pretty bridges. Watching the boats glide smoothly made the scene feel like a fairytale.

The Bruges Canal District's beauty made us feel so joyful and connected. It was like a sweet symphony of happiness and friendship. We couldn't resist taking pictures to remember this magical moment and the bond between us.

As we continued strolling through the neighborhood streets, we were utterly thrilled by the picturesque scenery that unfolded before us. The streets exuded charm, lined with colorful buildings adorned with elegant architecture. Each corner seemed like a work of art, and the clean environment added to the overall beauty of the place. The captivating sights seemed straight out of a postcard, with every step revealing new delights for us to admire. The entire atmosphere reminded me of the Hindi movie song "Char Kadam" from the film "PK", which was shot right here on these very streets.

To my surprise, we met some other friends who happened to live in this beautiful city. They warmly welcomed us and took it upon themselves to be our gracious guides. With their expert knowledge, they showed us around, sharing fascinating stories about the history and culture of Bruges.

In the company of our friends, we ended up at a cozy café, where we indulged in light snacks and refreshing drinks. The encounter with friends added an extra touch of nostalgia to our great trip.

Brussels

Brussels, the vibrant capital of Belgium, where history meets modernity in perfect harmony. This cosmopolitan city is known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and mouthwatering cuisine. From the iconic Atomium to the majestic Grand Place, there's something to captivate every traveler's heart.

We went on a day trip to Brussels, hopping on an early morning train from Luxembourg. The approximately 2.5-hour scenic journey heightened my anticipation for the adventure that lay ahead in this vibrant capital city.

Arriving in Brussels, I was in awe of the stunning Grand Place (Grote Markt). The enchanting square was decorated with historic buildings and a majestic Town Hall. The architecture had a magical charm, making me feel like I stepped into a royal world and filling me with a sense of wonder.

Subsequently, we encountered the renowned Manneken Pis statue. It's a small bronze statue of a little boy urinating into a fountain, representing Brussels' playful and humorous spirit. It is a beloved symbol of the city's carefree nature and free-spirited identity. The statue's costumes, donated from around the world, showcase Brussels' vibrant culture and the sense of celebration. The Manneken Pis holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors, symbolizing the city's uniqueness and endearing charm. It is an iconic and lighthearted representation of Brussels' character and cultural identity.

Afterwards, we headed to the futuristic Atomium, an impressive architectural masterpiece with interconnected spheres. Its cutting-edge design offered a captivating exploration of science and art, enhancing our understanding of these captivating subjects. Climbing to the highest sphere, we were treated to a breathtaking panoramic view, allowing us to appreciate the vastness of the city from an unparalleled vantage point.

Next, I savored the world's best Belgian fries, which happen to be my all-time favorite. Whenever I visit Belgium, I make sure to seize the opportunity and indulge in these delicious treats. The fries' perfect combination of crispiness on the outside and fluffiness on the inside created an unmatched taste experience.

As I walked through the city on foot, I enjoyed the charming streets of Brussels, with lovely boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes adding to its allure. The mix of history and modernity gives Brussels a unique character.

Boarding the return train to Luxembourg, I carried with me a treasure trove of memories from my day in Brussels, eager to share my experiences and newfound appreciation with others.