Brussels

Our first activity in a city is almost always a walking tour with a local guide and this trip was no different. We started Friday by meeting our guide in the main city square and spent the next two hours following along, learning about the history of the city and getting lots of recommendations of where to visit next and what food to try. After the walking tour and some deliciously crispy Belgian fries, we headed out to the Atomium on the Metro. Navigating the transport system in a new city is always interesting, but Will and I have lots of practice by now and when in doubt, we just wait for a local to come along and copy what they do! We found the Atomium impressive (and very shiny) in its park setting, attracting the eye from a long distance! I loved the immersive light and sound display inside the atoms of the structure and would have stayed for hours, if Will hadn't pointed out we hadn't even been up  the tallest atom yet. From there we had 360° views of the surrounding area- a perfect photo spot! Then it was time to catch the Metro back to our apartment, ready for another fun-filled day on Saturday.

We had previously decided that during our time in Belgium we wanted to explore beyond just Brussels, so we signed up for a day trip on Saturday that took us to both Ghent and Brugge. We joined a coach tour with an English speaking guide, who gave us a walking tour at each destination before leaving us with free time to explore at our own leisure. The only rule was to meet at the deisgnated time back at the coach. Our free time in Brugge was spent sampling the local waffles and buying some very tasty Belgian chocolate. In Ghent we opted to take the lift up the belfry, one of the three towers of the city. Will enjoyed the view of the city stretching out below us; I was less keen on being so high up!  We finished off the day with dinner at a food hall back in Brussels- pizza for me and African fusion for Will.

Our last day was designated free time with nothing booked, so we decided in the morning to take the Metro to the Basilica. When we got there, a Sunday service was underway and we were treated to the sound of the choir accompanied by the organ. A lift within the Basilica took us to the top dome, which has an open air walkway around it, offering amazing views. Feeling a bit safer than up the belfry the previous day, even I managed to relax and enjoy it. Once down on the ground again we decided to head into the center. Unfortunately, as I stepped onto our bus, the doors closed behind me leaving Will to watch as we drove away without him! He had to take the next bus which wasn't going to the same destination. After several transport transfers from both of us, we were finally reunited! It's not an adventure without the odd mishap! We spent the rest of the day mooching around, mostly shopping and eating, before catching the Eurostar back to London and a train onwards to our home.