Brussels, Belgium

For many foreigners, Brussels may seem like a dull place and some might even say the city sucked energy out of them. Even so, I personally have a fondness for this city. The architectures were extraordinary, yet still very different from its neighbour countries. While I was there I got a chance to visit a few famous attractions and even though there weren't much to see comparing to elsewhere in Europe, I can assure you that you won't be disappointed.

The first attraction I visited was The Atomium, a symbolic construction of Science in Brussels since 1958. It was 103m tall, which was much smaller than I expected. Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to actually go inside the steel spheres, then again I honestly don't think its necessary, because the exterior was exceedingly sensational. It's not possible to go to The Atomium and not try their famous fries or "frites" at J.Vandervaeren, a snack bar by the end of the road. Although I'm not the biggest fan of fries, but their frites was very palatable nonetheless. They were not as oily like most places, they got the right amount of salt and very crunchy from the outside yet extremely soft on the inside, plus the staffs were particularly friendly. 

I then visited the Royal Palace, which was remarkable. Since it was situated in front of Brussels Park, in the middle of the city and the weather was chilly even in the summer, I was able to walk around and enjoy the scenery for hours.

Nevertheless, what really impressed me was the Grand Place, a central square that give an insight into the history of old Brussels. There were plenty of beautiful buildings and attractions including the Town Hall which have a beautiful Gothic architectural style. There were variety of restaurants and cafes around the edge for both locals and tourists to enjoy. Souvenir and small shops were just around the corner for tourists to purchase goodies back home.

While I was at the Royal Palace, there was this talented artist that sells his paintings of Brussels. He talked me through his art works which amazed every single cell in my body. He was indeed very skilful and gifted that I had to purchase one myself :)

Everyone that go to Brussels must visit The Manneken Pis, a peeing boy fountain statue. Although I am sure that many visitors might be disappointed regarding the size of this pee man, because he only stands 61cm tall, but there were many myths and stories about the Manneken Pis which were all beyond belief. Some say that back in the days when Brussels was deadly on fire, there was a boy that stopped the flames by peeing on it hence the Manneken Pis statue was created.

Food is very significant for everyone in Belgium and their culture. I tried waffles from The Waffle Factory and it was beyond delicious! The waffles were so soft, not very sweet, have variety of toppings and they were very rich in flavour and texture.

Of course, Belgium is famous for their flavoursome chocolate. Apparently, most store still made their chocolate by hand! It would definitely be amiss if anyone go to Belgium and not take a bite of this treat. I didn't really know which brand or store was well-known in the city therefore I just kinda tried out my luck and bought different type of chocolate from "Mary Chocolatier" and they were super delish. I highly highly recommend their dark chocolate, because it will melt into your mouth like a dream. Amazing.

Based on my observation, I think Belgians tend to gravitate toward darker colour clothing rather than brighter ones, hence maybe that is why tourists assumed Brussels as bland city. People were decently nice, although I havent really meet that many. Some may say the weather is gloomy but I lovvvve it! Despite whatever people think about Brussels, I absolutely love it and I can seriously imagine myself living there one day  

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