The Unexpected Prism of Brussels

Known primarily for chocolate and beer, Brussels is unexpectedly and yet delightfully charming. If any city has two faces, it is Brussels, with a lively interchange of Flemish vs. French, hip vs. traditional, the odd vs. the mundane.

The city is full of surprises, intrigue and contradictions. It continues to seduce travellers with the air of intrigue, which surrounds the capital of Belgium. Brussels is a quilted heirloom of multicultural roots; entwined and deeply ingrained.

There is a casual air amongst the residents, with laissez-faire locals populating the city’s sidewalk cafés and local taverns. In Brussels, beer reigns supreme and the variety of brew is unparalleled. Brussels has delicious eateries where Art Nouveau and Art Deco subsist happily together in the same locale. Brussels is also one the world’s finest regions for delectable fine chocolate.

Take a stroll through the Matonge section of the city, a burgeoning marketplace inhabited by descendants brought here from the Belgium Congo. Visit Grand Place, the most celebrated landmark in Brussels and also a World Heritage site. If you prefer a bit of history, stroll along the Avenue Louise where the Nazi Gestapo was headquartered during the Belgium Occupation. Today, it is home to many of Brussels’ amazing sculptures, luxury shops and salons.

Constant among all the treasures that make up the city of Brussels is the fine quality of everyday life; great shopping, fabulous restaurants, art museums and parks.

Brussels is emerging as one of the world’s most diverse cities, uniting the historical decaying streets with a fresh façade of cockiness and inner-city regeneration.

Flights to Brussels are available from most international airports.

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