Travel to Belgium

We enter into a small chocolate shop in one of the lanes by the Grand Place in Brussels (Bruxelles). Though no attendant is seen from outside, a wind chime attached to the door signals that somebody is in; the shopkeeper appears to our service. We are enamored by this European style of greeting. We are in Brussels, the capital city of Belgium in Europe that is also famous for its vibrant shopping markets, besides being the capital city of the European Union.

Brussels abounds in shopping spots. According to the ministry of Economy and Employment of the Brussels, the city's compact geography and a lot of shopping areas, each with specific characteristic, make it easy for tourists to get around in. So, one can easily reach most of the shopping areas in no time from the hotel of stay. We explore three major streets on a walking round trip in Brussels.

To begin with shopping expedition in Brussels, start on with Rue Neuve, the actual pedestrian shopping street and in fact, the longest one in Brussels, in the middle of the town. With no vehicles allowed in the street, it offers a carefree space to the walkers and one can enjoy shopping calmly here. The street is packed with clothing chains, fashion stores, perfumes, gifts, music and more such stores. At the north end of Rue Neuve, there's a mall too. City 2, the only shopping mall in the center of town, has over 100 stores, plus cafes and restaurants.

Following the shops all the way down Rue Neuve Street takes you to the Stock Exchange building on your right, and you know you have reached the surroundings of Rue Dansaert where the Romans founded Brussels in the 10th century. However, unlike its history, the area has all contemporary shops. The place is rather trendy with Belgium designers' boutiques, clothing and accessories stores and more.

From Rue Dansaert it's worth walking a few meters away on your left to reach the Grand Place (Grote Markt), the central square of the city which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has tourists thronging it the most. The place is a symbol of European history but not everyone knows that it's also a wonderful shopping destination for the real Belgian souvenirs. The narrow streets around the Grand Place is full of small shops where you can get everything that's Belgian – from  Belgian tapestries, Belgian laces, Belgian beers, Belgian chocolates and pralines to souvenirs of Manneken Pis, beer mugs and even comic strips of Tintin. In fact, Belgian tapestry shops are in abundance at this place. You can get full range of home linen made of these tapestries. Even tapestry paintings and wall hangings make for a worth buy. And when you get tired, munch on some seafood dishes or burgers at the street side restaurants that look very inviting. Also, it is in one of these streets where Manneken Pis, the famed bronze statue of a urinating boy, lies.

What's more? The Grand Place doesn't let you stop. The Royal Galleries just off the Grand Place is not to be missed. It's a passageway donned in form of an enclosed portico with very high ceilings. Walking on the cobbled pavements of these galleries with shops, cafes and terraced restaurants on either side, imparts an old world charm. The area is also suitable for spending evening with a lot of local feel and variety of choices for having food. Most of the shops at the Grand Place are open until 9 PM.

Be it for the traditional Belgian tapestries, Belgian laces, Belgian beers, souvenirs or the trendy clothes, Brussels' street shopping is an out-and-out experience.  And if you thought you have missed out on anything while in Brussels, treat yourself with Belgian waffles along with some hot chocolate sauce.

There are two major cities in Western Europe, London and Brussels. London is the capital city of England and it is full of culture and scenic beauty. On the other side Brussels is the capital of Belgium and known for its diplomatic value. London high, shopping malls, and Oxford University are the main attractions in London and Brussels has the headquarters of EU and NATO etc important organisations.

There are many travellers who visit between London to Brussels on daily basis. There are many travel options to the destinations and you can choose any one of these. You can choose any one these as per your schedule and comfort. We are sharing few interesting ways for London to Brussels travel and our aim is to save your money on your travel.

Eurostar Train:

Eurostar is the fastest and economical mode of travel from London to Brussels. Eurostar has made its place in train travel from London to Paris and London to Brussels route. The train offers fares one way from £39 to £69 for a return ticket (economy class). You can save your local time as the train drop you in the middle of the city within 2 hours. You can start your Journey from London St Pancras International station and by eating amazing foods in side, you will reach Brussels in around 1 hr 50 min.

Air / Flights:

The fastest mode of travel from London to Brussels in by air. Book a flight from London Airports to Brussels for just £45.99 one way. Although normal cost ranges somewhere between £75 and £130. Airlines as British Airways, Brussels Airlines, Blue Air, British Midland airways operate daily flights from London to Brussels. It takes around 1 hr 15 min in to the journey.

Ferry:

If you have enough time for your travel, you can choose Ferries as another option. You have to reach Dover port in London and take a ferry to Dunkerque in Brussels. After reaching Dunkerque you have to take bus or Car to reach the city of Brussels. Ferry fares are less than Eurostar and Flights but it takes around 4 hours to reach Brussels. You can also take your car with your travel by Ferry and use to save taxi fares in Brussels.

Whether you're looking for meeting rooms with the convenience of airport access, wanting to meet in Brussels' business and political district or looking for somewhere where your delegates can enjoy the beauty of this historical city, Crowne Plaza Brussels hotel have something for you. Our range of hotels in Brussels gives you a number of options, no matter what style of meeting you're organising.

Crowne Plaza Brussels – definitive style

Our three hotels in Brussels each has something unique to offer your business function or event. Crowne Plaza Brussels – Le Palace is a unique hotel situated in the heart of Brussels. Dating back to 1908, Crowne Plaza Brussels – Le Palace is strongly influenced by the Art Nouveau curls of Gustav Klimt, and its newly refurbished rooms add a touch of luxury to any business meeting.

What Crowne Plaza Brussels – Le Palace has in history, Crowne Plaza Brussels Europa equals in modern stylishness. The high-rise building of Crowne Plaza Brussels Europa sits in the wide open spaces of the European district, offering easy access to the European Parliament and the European Commission, as well as Metro access right outside the door.

When the convenience of busy delegates is a central concern, Crowne Plaza Brussels Airport makes an excellent choice of venue. Unlike many airport hotels, Crowne Plaza Brussels Airport manages to create a serene oasis for travellers, with rolling lawns allowing some breathing space. The soaring six-storey atrium adds to the sense of calm, and with the Brussels Airport just five minutes away by shuttle, you couldn't ask for a more convenient spot.

The best in modern meeting facilities

Crowne Plaza Meetings are always meetings with a difference, but our Crowne Plaza Brussels hotels meet the high standards expected of this internationally-focussed city. By meeting in Brussels, the hub for European business and politics, you should expect the best in modern meeting facilities, and this is what you'll find at Crowne Plaza Brussels hotels.

Our range of meeting rooms can cater for small groups or for large gatherings and conferences. Each of our meeting rooms can be arranged to suit different styles of meeting, with styles including cabaret, classroom, boardroom, banquet and theatre on offer. All Crowne Plaza Brussels hotels have multiple meeting venues to choose from, and you can consult with your dedicated Meetings Director on which room is best suited to your event.

Looking after delegates outside the meeting room

Keeping delegates entertained through multi-day conferences can be difficult, and at Crowne Plaza Brussels we know the importance of an engaging meeting environment. Each of our Crowne Plaza Brussels hotels is close to public transport, providing easy access to everything Brussels has to offer. Not only this, but our in-house restaurants, fitness centres, courtyards and spa facilities provide for your guests' comfort. Our skilled catering teams can also provide delicious treats throughout your meeting.

If you are thinking of holding a multi-day event, talk to your Meetings Director about including accommodation in your meeting package, and don't forget to ask about our special menus for catering options.

Brussels is the capital urban place of Belgium; with the bigger Brussels arena as the capital of the European Union. Brussels takes its root as a place from the 10th century in advance it gradually flourished as a trading post along with Ghent, Cologne, and Burges, since all these large towns lie along the Siene River. It was the home of aristocrats, diplomats, and royalty until it became the middle of governance of Belgium in the 19th century.

There is no shortage of out of this world places to eat and drink when reviewing a list of Brussels tourism options. Fine eating is a real art form in Brussels, but there are also many quaint caf's and public houses littered from the word go the urban place. The main dining and eating areas in Brussels are Avenue Louise and surroundings, suburb Sainte-Catherine called the fish market, majestic' quarter and the Ilot Sacr, and point du rich Sablon. There are myriad eating establishments in Brussels, all with attractive interior settings and impartially fine eating opportunities for travellers looking to get a bite to eat.

When it comes to spots of interest, Brussels has many diversity. Museums and galleries, traces and monuments, churches, gardens and parks, cinemas, and markets represent some of the must-drop by sites in the place. The Beaux Art Museum and the coincident Art Museum, the Belgian Comic Strip Museum, the Brewery Museum, and The Horta Museum are some of the greater important museums in Brussels. Illustrious features include terrific dwelling, Arc de Triomphe, and Parc du Cinquantenaire. As for gardens and parks, site du Petit Sablon and Brussels Park are a breath of fresh air.

Other than seeing museums, famed vantage points, and churches, one can also adore a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings from the top of the Atomium, which is a model of an iron molecule's nine atoms magnified 165 billion times. In the summer, one can take part in a unique activity christened 'Death Ride' from the top sphere of the Atomium. You should not miss the unique shopping experience at Brussels' elevated flea market - The March aux Puces-Vlooienmarkt in vicinity du Jeu de Balle-Vossenplein.

Brussels is one of the spots to go for citizens who are fans of flicks, especially art films. There are countless sites where one can go to engage in some peaceful yet satisfying film viewing. Actors Studio, Styx, Cinema Nova, and Arenberg are only a inconsiderable of the cinemas that are favorite all over Belgium, and at times, even Europe. Shopping in Brussels is a bit inconvenient as shops are normally closed on Sundays and Mondays, but the diversity of the goods more than makes up for the short open-time of the stores. From films, books, and especially chocolate, the shopping in Brussels does not frustrate.

Certainly, Brussels has a refined reputation and has become a sophisticated seat of European lifestyles. With a dynamic structure, Brussels has been a home for multi-ethnic background and history. This European region is famous to guests from other countries for its rich architectures, fine arts, and not to mention, its enormous variety of mouth-melting chocolates. Brussels highlights several impressive attractions such as medieval streets, Neo-Gothic buildings, High-Profile museums, modern boulevards, shopping malls, and the most renowned Grand Parliament Headquarters.

However, the main attraction of all is the legendary Royal Palace located just within the central city. The Royal Palace mostly welcomes visitors inside its excellent infrastructures during the summer season. The Palace showcases the country's most significant events and activities. Being the most distinctive landmark of Brussels, the Royal Palace was intricately built along with guild houses, restaurants and small cafes.

With these expectations and attractions in mind, travelers and tourists from around the globe visit Brussels, Belgium in different times of the year. Thus, expect an abundant choice of Hotels in Brussels if you are planning to visit this magnificent place. Perfect getaways always come along with a cozy, convenient and satisfactory accommodation.

Consequently, there is a whole bunch of Brussels Hotels deals to choose from. With ratings not less than four stars, these hotels surely provide high-satisfactory accommodations. The NH Hotel du Grand Sablon situated in central Brussels features about 200 fully-equipped rooms, and 6 conference rooms that can hold up to 160 guests. Near to various commercial and historical centers in Brussels is the NH Grand Place Arenberg. The best thing with this hotel is nearly located to local and international transportations like the Central Station.

Nevertheless, there are also Brussels cheap Hotels ready to accommodate visitors especially the budget-conscious types. Van Belle Hotel, Scandinavia Hotel, Hotel La Madeleine and Minotel Prince de Liege, are only some of the inexpensive hotels that are located just a few kilometers away from the city center, and close to numerous landmarks and attractions within central Brussels. Definitely, Brussels, Belgium is a noteworthy destination for anyone. For more selection of accommodations, anyone can visit online Brussels Hotels through diverse search engines of the internet.

I have a new love in my life! Brussels sprouts – how could I forsake thee for so long? Okay, so maybe I exaggerate a little bit on my recent imfatuation  with that distinct Brussels sprouts taste, but not by much. I started eating Brussels sprouts again when they first showed up at my local farmer's market at the end of the season in September, and I've been chomping then down ever since. At my Thanksgiving dinner table, the Brussels sprouts were the first to go. What can I say, except that a love of cruciferous vegetables clearly runs in my gene pool.

My mother now loves Brussels sprouts, but she hated them for years after being forced to eat my grandmother's "boiled-to-death" Brussels sprouts. I think this is why so many people are afraid of these cute little cabbages. Frankly, I think people are so turned off by them because they don't know how to cook Brussels sprouts. There are a myriad of ways to prepare them, from sauteed Brussels sprouts to steamed Brussels sprouts, but for my money nothing beats roasting them!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients:

    Brussels sprouts
    Black pepper, freshly cracked
    Olive oil

Instructions:

Pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees F. Rinse your Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. If you have larger ones, cut them into thirds so that all the pieces are of uniform size. Place a piece of aluminum foil on a baking sheet and arrange the sprouts on the sheet cut side up. They will shrink in the oven, so don't worry about spacing. Cram as many as you can on your one cookie sheet. Break out your pepper mill and liberally grind black pepper all over the Brussels sprouts. I like my sprouts my a nice bite to them, so don't be shy about your black pepper!
 

Coat the baking sheet with extra virgin olive oil, or whatever flavorful vegetable oil you like. Put the sheet in the oven and bake until they have taken on an even golden brown color. Expect to have them in the oven for at least 20 minutes or so.

That's it! Roasted Brussels sprouts are one of the easiest things in the world to make, and they are delicious. Honestly, I could eat them like potato chips because they're that good.  Truthfully, this is more of a cooking guide than a recipe, because I think it's too simple to be a true recipe. Feel free to modify as you see fit in terms of flavor, but in my experience less is more when it comes to Brussels sprouts. I feel a bit blasphemous saying that because I add lots of spices to almost anything, but in this instance I think it's totally true.

Along that line, choosing high quality ingredients makes a big difference in final taste, but I've made this with frozen Brussels sprouts before and the end result was still delicious. Also, I don't cook with a lot of salt (stupid family history of hypertension) but some cracked sea salt or some kosher salt would be a great addition here. As you start planning your next dinner, consider these roasted Brussels sprouts, as I guarantee that everyone will rave about that Brussels sprouts taste.

Brussels is Belgium's capital. It is also a city where plenty of European institutions are headquartered and is considered by some to be the de facto capital for the European Union.  Brussels also has the largest urban area in Belgium, and is the seat of Belgium's French Community as well as its Flemish Community. Brussels has historically been known as a Dutch-speaking community, however, the number of French speaking inhabitants has increased dramatically during the course of the 19th-20th centuries and both languages now have official status.

If you plan to go to Brussels, here are some of the recommended sites:

The Grand Place- the Grand Place, or the Grote Markt is Brussel's central square, surrounded by the city's Town Hall and the Breadhouse. The Grand Place is Brussel's most important tourist destination and its most memorable landmark which measures 223 by 360 feet and is listed under UNESCO's World Heritage Sites.

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official palace of the King of Belgians located in front of Brussels Park. Although it is the official palace, it is not used as a royal residence since the king and his family resides in the Royal Castle of Laeken. The Palace, or "Palais Royal", allows visitors for a limited time in summer.

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is one of Belgium's most famous museums. The museum is located in the downtown area of Coudenberg and is comprised of four museums connected with the Royal Museum.  The two of them—The Museum of Ancient Art, and the Museum of Modern Art—are in the main building, while the other two, which are located a few kilometers from the city center, are dedicated to specific Belgian artists and are much smaller. The Royal Museum features over 20,000 drawings, sculptures, and paintings dating from the early 15th century to the present.

Finding Hotels in Brussels that are affordable isn't easy. But enjoying Brussels need not be hard on the pocket if you can find Cheap Brussels Hotels. At otel.com, you can browse an extensive listing of Brussels Cheap Hotels and Cheap Hotels In Brussels Belgium that fit any budget. With deals on over 100 Cheap Hotels In Brussels, you're sure to find the Cheap Hotels Brussels that matches your exact needs.  Simply log on to the website and choose the Cheap Accommodation Brussels that's perfect for you.

Brussels is considered as the capital of Belgium and the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty organization has its main organization there to promote the rule and regulations. Brussels king and his family lives in the Royal Castle of Laeken which is located in the outer region of the Brussels city. But the city is very much famous for the royal palace which is in the center of the city.

Brussels is very much famous for its wider and beautiful streets, historic buildings, museums and architecture with pointed shaped arches which is generally adopted in 16-18 centuries. Brussels is one of the cities where people from different languages and caste are living together without any kind of differences. As it is located nearby seashore the climate of Brussels is very moist. Brussels has around 200 rainy days in a year.

Brussels Airport is the main airport of the city. But it also has 10 other airport along with that, that come with in 100 mile region from the city from where the Brussels flights are available. Those are Antwerp-Brussels North airport, Brussels S. Charleroi airport, Liege airport, Eindhoven airport, Maastricht/Aachen airport, Lesquin airport, Rotterdam airport, Ostend airport, Niederrhein airport, Amsterdam-Schiphol airport. Around 67 airlines provides the services of Brussels flights including Brussels airlines, Jetairfly, Royal Air Marco, Jet Airways(India), Lufthansa, easyjet, Atlas blue, Bmi, United airlines and SAS.

Brussels flights provides connectivity to 59 countries like Spain, Morocco, United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, France, United States, Egypt, Turkey and Portugal. The airports from where you can board to Brussels flights are Heathrow airport, Geneva international airport, Augsburg airport, Barajas airport, Frankfurt international airport, Vienna international airport, Barcelona airport, Malpensa airport etc.

Brussels airport is full of facilities for the passengers like bank, post office, data port for laptops and mobile phones, café, restaurants, duty free shopping, medication in case of emergency. Airport transfers and parking is also available.

Brussels flights are of international standard and provide the best of the services. The passengers having little infants travelling with get the first chance to board the flight. They are also provided with the facility of baby food and bowling of bottles. A folding chair with wheels is also available for the handicaps and children to board the aircraft. Seatback TV screen is also available for the entertainment purpose of the passengers. For long haul passengers the comfortable blanket and pillows are also provided. They are also facilitated with the quality dining of vegetarian or non vegetarian food. 

Brussels flights pay the main attention for the entertainment of the children e.g. they provide games, jigsaw and special cartoon sessions on the TV screen. The washrooms the flights are also well maintained. The lie-flat beds like seats and individual power ports are available for the business class passengers.  The tickets for the Brussels flights can be booked online through internet. All the information about the Brussels airport can be taking from the website www.brusselsairport.be .

If you are thinking to go for holidays but you have know idea where to go for your holiday in Europe. Let me help you to find the holiday destination for you. Last month I went Brussels for holidays with my family and it was unforgettable tour for me. Let me explain you something about Brussels.

Introduction

Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and of Brussels Capital Region. It is entirely surronded by Dutch-speaking Flanders and its constituent Flemish Brabant province. As headquarters of many European institutions, Brussels might also be considered something of a capital for the European Union.As Brussels became the capital city of a new country in the 19th century, the old town was destroyed to make way for brand new ministries, palaces, schools, army barracks and office blocks all built between 1880 and 1980.

Brussels has a poor reputation for its weather. Compared to other western European cities like London and Paris

Get in by Plane

Brussels' main airport is Brussels International Airport - previously known as Zaventem . Several major carriers operate out of the airport, including the local Brussels Airlines, which flies to many destinations worldwide.

Brussels revamped its metro at the start of April 2009 to boast six lines, and at the same time rescheduled several tram and bus routes. Most are run by STIB-MIVB of the Brussels region except for some regional buses, which are run by De lijn of the Flemish region and Le Tec of the Walloon region.

Sightseeing

There are lots of things to see in brussels but most important places i am describing you:

Grand Place-Grote Markt, Surrounded by the city tower and a range of beautiful 300 year old buildings. In the evening, surrounded by bright lumination, it is simply ravishing. Some evenings a music and light show is provided with the buildings serving as a canvas. Have a "gaufre de Liège-Luikse wafel" here—the best ones are available from the little shops off the northeast corner of the Grand Place-Grote Markt.

Manneken Pis, Just a short walk from the Grand Place-Grote Markt is the Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue thought to represent the "irreverent spirit" of Brussels. This statue of a child performing one of Nature's most basic functions is believed to have been inspired by a child who, while in a tree, found a special way to drive away invading troops.

Statue of Europe, Also referred to as Unity in Peace, this sculpture symbolises peace through European integration, while at the same time aiming to demonstrate the motto of the European Union (EU), United in Diversity.

Things to do

Brussels has a fair number of cinemas, if limited compared to most European capitals. French films are subtitled in Dutch, and vice versa, all other films are shown in the original version subtitled in French and Dutch.

Brussels has a good selection of year round events, many suitable for English speaking visitors. The following sites are are useful to check out whats on.

1. Classic Concerts [46] a site selling classical tickets, but has an excellent rundown of all the upcoming classical concerts.
2. Wallonie Tourism [47] is brought to you by the French Speaking Tourist board.
3. Ancienne Belgique [48] for popular concerts, where the stadium bands stop in.
4. Brussels Events Listings [49] is a roundup of events for an English speaking audience, this is good for some of the the smaller and Expat focused venues.

There are lots of things to do in Brussels which I can't explain in a single article. I will be coming soon to share lots of  adventure things in my next article.