Brussels is the capital of Belgium as well as its largest metropolitan area, with a population of over 1.8 million as of 2008. Brussels is known as the home of many political organizations, specifically being the political headquarters of NATO as well as the European Union.
The revolution that gave Belgium independence occurred in Brussels in 1830. The city was largely redeveloped towards the end of the 19th century, and although few earlier buildings remain, there is still a strong sense of history in Brussels. The one area that still features historical buildings including some wonderful Gothic architecture is the Grand Place, the cobbled market square at the heart of the city. The majestic City Hall building along with an array of guild houses is wonderfully lit up at night.
The Royal Palace of Brussels and the Laeken Castle, with its large greenhouses are also worth seeing, as is the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The stock exchange building, with its Classical front, is also a marvelous piece of architecture.
Brussels is also home to the world’s most famous bronze statue — the slightly risqué Manneken Pis. Cultural attractions are where Brussels truly shines, with over 100 museums. Begin with the Museum of Modern Art and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, where you will see an extensive collection of painters, including of course the Flemish painters. If you’re a fan of René Magritte, you will be happy to know that the Magritte Museum contains the largest collection of Magritte in the world.
You must partake in Brussels’ famous culinary offerings, such as the Belgian waffle, Belgian chocolate, french fries of course and wash it all down with any of the numerous beers that Belgium is so accomplished at creating. And yes, brussels sprouts really did originate in Brussels.
Brussels is becoming one of the trendiest hotspots in Europe for tourism and business purposes. It is seen as the ultimate weekend getaway for most people in Europe. Apart from the beer and chocolates, Brussels also has a vast range of tourist attractions that has enthralled the tourists and led to it earning the title of the “European Village”. Over ninety beautiful parks, museums, fascinating walks, trendy bars and restaurants make the city a fun and elegant place to visit.
The city of Brussels is more than a thousand years old. It is also the capital of Belgium and both French and Dutch are the ex-officio languages here. The names of streets and everything official is written in both these languages. The city is also very cosmopolitan and is an amalgamation of various cultures. Being the headquarters of the European Union (EU), Brussels is considered to be the crossroads of Europe and this gives it its international flair and makes it a city of contrasts.
A similar amount of contraposition can also be seen in the variety of architectural styles which are found in Brussels. Gothic churches and cathedrals are often found next to each other and are often in absolute contrast. You will come across exquisite classical facades and sophisticated deco houses around Royal Square.
You should always start your Brussels tour with the Grote Markt. The market consists of some impressive guild houses as well as the splendid Gothic structure-The Town Hall. This makes it one of very few beautiful city centers in Europe. This town square is also called the Grand Place and was constructed over centuries. This place is symbolic of the cosmopolitanism of modern Brussels and almost all buildings here have some historical significance. And if you need a good place to stay, check out https://www.airbnb.com.…
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Paris is one of the most iconic cities in the world, known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and romantic atmosphere. It is a destination that has been drawing tourists from all over the globe for centuries, and it is easy to see why. From the historic landmarks to the world-renowned museums, Paris has a lot to offer visitors. In this article, we will explore why Paris is such a great tourist destination.
First and foremost, Paris is known for its stunning architecture. The city is home to some of the most beautiful buildings in the world, from the Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral to the grand Château de Versailles. One of the most iconic structures in Paris is the Eiffel Tower, which attracts millions of visitors every year. The tower was built in 1889 for the World’s Fair and has since become a symbol of Paris and a must-see attraction for tourists.
In addition to its historic landmarks, Paris is also known for its vibrant culture. The city is home to some of the world’s most famous museums, such as the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, which house some of the greatest works of art in history. Visitors can also enjoy live performances at venues like the Opéra Garnier and the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées. Paris is also famous for its fashion, with world-renowned designers like Chanel and Dior based in the city.
Another reason why Paris is a great tourist destination is its rich history. The city has been a cultural and intellectual hub for centuries, with writers and artists flocking to the city to find inspiration. The Left Bank of the Seine River was home to the literary and artistic movement known as the Lost Generation in the 1920s, and today it is still a haven for artists and writers. Visitors can also explore the city’s many historic neighborhoods, such as the Marais and Montmartre, to get a glimpse of what life was like in Paris in the past.
Paris is renowned for its culinary scene, with a rich history of delicious and iconic dishes. Here are some culinary delights you should try when in Paris:
Croissants: Paris is famous for its buttery, flaky croissants, which are a must-try for breakfast or as a snack.
Macarons: These delicate, colorful confections are a Parisian specialty. You can find them in many patisseries around the city.
French onion soup: This hearty soup is made with caramelized onions and beef broth, topped with crusty bread and melted cheese.
Steak frites: A classic French dish, steak frites is a simple but delicious combination of grilled steak and crispy fries.
Coq au vin: This traditional dish consists of chicken cooked in red wine with vegetables and bacon.
Escargots: These are snails cooked in garlic butter and herbs. They may seem intimidating to some, but they are a true Parisian delicacy.
Baguette: The iconic French baguette is a staple of the Parisian diet and is best enjoyed fresh and warm from the bakery.
Cheese: France is famous for its cheese, and Paris is home to many cheese shops where you can sample a variety of delicious cheeses.
Chocolate: Paris has a long tradition of chocolate-making, and you can find some of the world’s best chocolate in the city.
Wine: France is known for its wine, and Paris has many wine bars and shops where you can try a variety of delicious wines from different regions of France.
Paris has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of options for entertainment, socializing, and cultural experiences. Here are some of the things you can do in Paris at night:
Visit a cabaret: Paris is famous for its cabaret shows, including the iconic Moulin Rouge and the Lido. These shows offer a dazzling display of music, dance, and costume, and are a must-see for anyone visiting Paris.
Explore the bars and clubs: Paris has a wide variety of bars and clubs, ranging from elegant cocktail bars to underground nightclubs. Some popular areas for nightlife include the Marais, Pigalle, and the Latin Quarter.
Enjoy a late-night dinner: Many restaurants in Paris stay open late into the night, so you can enjoy a leisurely dinner with friends or family. Some of the best late-night dining options include brasseries, bistros, and street food vendors.
Take a night walk: Paris is a beautiful city at any time of day, but it takes on a special magic at night. Take a stroll along the Seine River or through the illuminated streets of Montmartre to experience the city’s romantic and enchanting ambiance.
Attend a concert or performance: Paris has a thriving music and theater scene, with many performances taking place at night. Check out venues like the Opera Garnier or the Philharmonie de Paris for a memorable cultural experience.
Visit a night market: During the summer months, Paris hosts a number of night markets where you can shop for artisanal crafts, vintage clothing, and street food.
Overall, Paris has a diverse and exciting nightlife scene that caters to a range of interests and tastes. Whether you prefer dancing, dining, or cultural experiences, you are sure to find something to enjoy in the City of Light at night.
Of course, no discussion of Paris would be complete without mentioning the city’s romantic atmosphere. Paris is often called the “City of Love,” and for good reason. The city’s beautiful architecture, charming streets, and scenic parks make it the perfect destination for couples. Visitors can take a romantic stroll along the Seine River, enjoy a candlelit dinner at a cozy bistro, or take in a show at the Moulin Rouge.
Finally, Paris is a great tourist destination because it is easy to get around. The city has an extensive public transportation system, including the metro and buses, which makes it easy for visitors to explore all that Paris has to offer. The city is also walkable, with many of the major landmarks and attractions located within walking distance of each other.
In conclusion, Paris is a great tourist destination for many reasons. From its stunning architecture to its vibrant culture, rich history, culinary delights, romantic atmosphere, and easy accessibility, the city has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in art, history, fashion, food, or romance, Paris is a destination that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.
Indeed, every city in the world has its own reasons for drawing in the visitors. It could be the weather, the sights and sounds, or even the activities that it offers. But when it comes to Brussels, it has so much to offer that you couldn’t pin it down to a single reason.
However, one of the top attractions has to be the number of chocolatiers that you can visit. Mary Chocolatier has been going for almost ninety years and is an absolute must if you have a sweet tooth. Each chocolate is an art form in itself, and you would be forgiven for spending an hour or two simply gazing at the delights that can be found there.
Most cities have some kind of structure that will allow you to see the surroundings from a great height, and Brussels is no different. But it does claim just about the most unusual building of all – if you can indeed call it that.
The Atomium is made from nine separate spheres, and offers an experience quite unlike any other when it comes to taking photos of this stunning city. Considering the modern appearance of this unusual structure, it is hard to believe that it is actually half a century old. You can climb over 330 feet to the top, and appreciate the grandeur of the design.
But if it’s a more traditional taste and looks that you’re after, you won’t want to miss the Grand Place, or Grote Markt. This is a thriving market square that offers much to amaze and delight all visitors.
Some of the buildings opening out onto the square are centuries old, and they provide a stunning contrast to the modern activities which are held in the square regularly. Perhaps the most delightful event occurs every two years when a huge carpet of flowers is laid out for everyone to see. If you can plan your visit to coincide with this, be sure to take your camera.
If you have a sense of humor you definitely won’t want to miss one of the most famous sights of all. No one can quite work out why the Manneken Pis is so popular, but it doesn’t take much effort to work out what the Dutch words translate into! This cheeky statue is just a few hundred meters away from the Grand Place, so be sure to take a detour if you are in the area.…
Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and is considered to be the de facto capital of the European Union, with the European Parliament being vested here.
Brussels is definitely a great cultural holiday destination.
What’s worthwhile to see in Brussels?
Brussels Town Hall on the Grand Place
A nice place to start your visit to Brussels is on the Grand place or “Grote Markt”, this is the central square of Brussels which is surrounded by period guildhalls, the stunning Town Hall and various other period buildings and nice terraces to fully take in your surroundings. Every building on this square is truly unique and has a whole history to tell, a guided tour could definitely give you a totally different perspective.
The Brussels Grand-Place has recently been voted the most beautiful square in Europe and certainly deserves the title. Every two years in August, an enormous “flower carpet” is set up in the Grand Place for a few days. This is a great tourist attraction that will truly stun you. If you do have the opportunity, do spend an evening on one of the many terraces, as this evening lightning will take you to a magical new world.
Everard ‘t Serclaes
While you walk from the town hall to see the statue of Manneken Pis you will see a golden statue of who many believe to be a man depicting Jesus, some, however, believe it to be a woman depicting Maria Magdalena. It is in fact a man depicted in the statue is Lord Everard’t Serclaes, a nobleman during the 14th century. The legend behind the statue says that when you touch his wrist, it will bring you one year of luck in love. Many tourists touch (or rather rub) other parts of the statue, and this constant polishing keeps the body depicted in the statue in a shining color compared to the rest of the sculpture, but only his wrist will truly bring you, love!…
For those that travel often, it is no secret that some of the most popular destinations to visit are tainted by the tourists that travel there. Many of these places begin to cater for these visitors and much of the authentic vibe becomes quickly lost. However, there are places like Albania that escape this trap and remain true to their roots. These places are off the beaten path and remain unscathed by industrialization and tourism. If you’d like to visit a genuine destination, Albania is a great choice, just make certain that your passport is up to date. Keep in mind that you can get passports now online with little hassle.
Online services are a great way to get your documents because they offer many different services at the click of a button. For instance, you can often choose to renew an expired passport, replace a lost or stolen one, or even purchase an infant passport. Whatever your specific need is, the fact that you can do this 24 hours a day without having to stand in line is certainly going to save you time and stress.
When you visit Albania, you will quickly notice just how naturally beautiful the landscape is. This area is home to many different types of endangered species such as the Mediterranean Monk Seal and the Dalmatian Pelican. Since this country lies on both the Ionian and the Adriatic Sea, there are miles and miles of coast for you o enjoy yourself on. The coast is a great place to relax, get some sun, or even take a trip diving into some of the underwater landscapes. If you think you might like a bit more exercise, you can always go hiking in the mountains for an afternoon picnic and look at the wildlife. Whatever your preference, you will find it in Albania.
Albania is full of many different archaeological sites for you to visit. Phoinike, Lissos, and Oricum are all places worth seeing on your trip. Phoinike existed long ago under the Epirus Kingdom. It was a very prosperous city for ten centuries and was even where the Macedonian War officially ended. Lissos was once occupied by Caesar and is a mountain top location overlooking a beautiful river. Oricum, also a city that thrived, has its own amphitheatre that was used for entertainment. Regardless of where you go, you will not be able to help but appreciate the historical significance of almost every area you come across.…
Albania is a great place to visit in Europe as it is very rich in history and culture, and in fact, some archaeological attractions in Albania are as old as the Stone Age era. Not only that, Albania has also served as a crossroads for some of the world’s greatest armies and civilizations so it is rich in historical monuments and archaeological sites. Albania literally means “the land of the eagles,” and this meaning can be seen in their national flag, so here are 10 places you can visit when you visit Albania:
1.) The Fortress of Gjirokastra
Otherwise called the “Silver Fortress,” the 4th-century fortress is the biggest as well as one of the most preserved constructions in Albania. The Fortress has an amazing view of the countryside. You can also see the Drinos Valley when you visit this historical site.
2.) The National Museum of Weapons and the Museum of Folk Culture
These are must-see attractions inside the above-mentioned fortress. Here, you will find weapons and arms displayed dating from World War II to as far back as the Neolithic era. You will also find artifacts such as clothing, utensils and others in the Museum of Folk Culture showcasing how the people lived in earlier times.
3.) The Butrint Archaeological Site
Located on the southwest coast of Albania, Butrint is included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO. It serves as a testament to the place’s beauty and history. Here, you will see glimpses of the cultures of the Bronze Age, Roman, Greek, Ottoman, Venetian and Byzantine Periods.
4.) The Rozafa Castle
The Rozafa Castle is one of the most famous castles in Albania. It has existed since the Illyrian times and was used as a base for attacking Rome during historical times. This castle’s name arises from a legend about one of the builder’s wives being sacrificed to appease the gods and make the castle walls stand.…
The Berat town in south-central Albania is simultaneously the capital of both the district of Berat and the County of Berat. The town is a historical one with several old architectures and is surrounded by Pine forests. The town also sits on the West Bank of the Osum River, a little ahead of the point where the Oshum is connected by the Molisht River. The town is actually on the foothills of the Tomorr Mountains. The other side of the Osum River has the Shpirag Mountain. There is an old Albanian legend regarding the two mountains and the river. The legend says, Tomorr and Shpirag were ancient giants who fought over a beautiful lady and both died to become the two mountains! The Oshun River is the lady herself!
Weather in Berat
Berret is a place with a Mediterranean climate. It is the hottest city in Albania located in the rain shadow of Mount Tomorr. The average highest temperature is about 23 C, and the lowest average is 10 C. Weather in Berat is moderately comfortable to visit anytime in the year.
Tourist Places Berat
There are many tourist places in Berat. In fact, Berat is known as the town of thousand windows because of the many large windows of the old architectural landmarks located in the city. There is the very old Berat castle. This castle was burnt down by the Romans in 200 BC and was further strengthened in the 5th century. The Berat castle, the historic witness to many historical battles, still stands guard over the old town of Berat. The old town has been included by UNESCO in the world heritage list. Other tourist places in Berat include the Church of St Mary of Blachernae, the King Mosque, the Lead Mosque and the Halveti Tekke.
Places to Eat in Berat
The Mengalami restaurant and the White house restaurant are the two places to eat in Berat. You will find these restaurants as great places to enjoy authentic Albanian food.…
Are you looking for a great travel destination, but do not want to visit the same old tourist haunts? Are you looking for a place that can provide an exotic and interesting environment? Then consider taking a trip to the unique and ancient land of Egypt. If you love to explore the architecture and lifestyles of the old world, then a getaway to the mystical land of Egypt is the perfect place to indulge your dreams.
Nile River
Known as the longest river in the world, the Nile is not only visually stunning but is the focal point of several centuries of ancient history. From legendary tales of Biblical times to the stories of Cleopatra, this river has many tales to tell. Treat yourself to one of the Nile River Cruises, viewing Egyptian life on the river. The Nile is a very important part of Egyptian life and lore. The pyramids and tombs were often built along the river since ancient Egyptians believed that the river was an influence on life and the afterlife. The Nile River Valley is also the place of much of Egypt’s agriculture and farming.
Mt. Sinai
As a very important and historic Christian site, this is proclaimed to be the place where Moses led the children of Israel and received the Ten Commandments from God. It is also claimed as the place where Moses saw the burning bush and spoke to God. The site is currently the home of St. Catherine’s Monastery, also known as the Monastery of the Transfiguration.
The Pyramids
The most recognizable and popular tourist site in Egypt, the pyramids are filled with legends and mysteries. Located in Giza, the Great Pyramid is known as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Built during the second century B.C., these pyramids stand as witnesses of the Egyptians’ architectural and engineering mastery. They have been studied by many archaeologists and have been the subject of thousands of articles. Your visit is not complete until you see these ancient structures.
Your vacation will become much more memorable when you include a trip to Egypt. You will have stories you will be telling for years to come. You will be glad you chose to venture out of the ordinary and typical vacation spots and who knows, you might even discover something you didn’t know.…
Budapest is a wonderful European city, and one of the oldest. There are many things to see and do here, too many to include in just one place. Here are five top places to see while visiting here.
One of them, if you are any kind of cook, has to be the Chefparade Cooking School. This is a school that is both cosmopolitan, and contemporary, where you can learn to cook some of Hungary’s best dishes. These are plenty of completely interactive fun activities. You get a guided tour of the Great Market Hall with your chef, purchasing local ingredients which you will then take back and cook under the supervision of some of the local master chefs. Courses start in the morning and are finished by lunchtime, and even older children will enjoy the hands-on experiences.
Another stop on your tour of Budapest should be a visit to the famous thermal baths, located around the city. While some of these can be somewhat crowded, one is less visited but just as soothing as the Rudas Baths. These baths were built in 1566 by the Turks and still retain a great Islamic style. There are a number of others, including Szechenyi, and Gellert. If you think you are good at chess, a visit to Szechenyi is a must, you will be able to challenge a number of local players.
Taking the Funicular Railway up the hill the next stop would have to be the Royal Palace District. Here you can walk through Buda Castle, enjoy a spectacular view of the city from the Fisherman’s Bastion, and visit the Matthias Church. When you get hungry, stop by the Cafe Ruszwurm for coffee and cake. Later a stop at the House of Hungarian wines will allow you to indulge in over fifty different wines from the region.
One of the best places to visit is the underground, and even when it is freezing cold at street level, it can be warm and pleasant here. There are over 200 caves, formed by the warm thermal waters pushing up from deep underground. There are plenty of man-made structures, from Dungeons and wine cellars that were used during medieval times. Castle Hill has many caves, connected together during the Turkish occupation for military use, and these are seen through guided tours.…
