Magical Christmas in Brussel 2014

3 more sleeps to Christmas?! How do time flies? Exactly a year ago, I was celebrating this lovely festival in the beautiful city of Brussels. The capital of Belgium is also very fondly known as the chocolate capital where the world's finest chocolate is produced as well as the best waffles in the universe! As it was a festive season, Christmas was indeed in the air! The shop windows was decorated with garlands and christmassy ornaments and with the touch of fluttering snow, Brussels was perfect.

Things Not to be Missed

• Chocolates

Chocolate, chocolates everywhere! As the most of them are boutique chocolates sold in pieces rather than bars, the price is pretty costly. However, for the sake of the heavenly tasting devil's food, it is worthy. There are numerous chocolate boutiques around town from big labels such as Godiva (it is slightly cheaper here than UK) and most can be found at Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, the shopping arcade. Leonidas is a more affordable and yet still yummy dummy chocolate boutique. The Mary was recommended by the receptionist as a royalty's favourite, expensive but definitely a must-try.

• Grand Place

This is the most happening spot of Brussels with bustling crowd fussing all over the large Christmas tree erected in the Grand Place. Not too far from the Grand Place was the busy Christmas market selling all kinds of Christmas delights and goodies. When nightfall, lights lit up the beautiful building in a colourful rhythmic pattern according to the beautiful music played in the background as the petite little lady from Asia was wondering, how much more magical can Christmas get that night.

 

• Manneken Pis a.k.a Pee Boy

An iconic statue of a boy peeing in a fountain. He is dressed according to season. And well, large replica of him can be seen everywhere else in the city.

  

• Day trip to Bruges

Bruges is a short hour plus train ride from Brussels which cost around 12 euros for a return ticket. Bruges is popular for its beautiful canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings. It is referred as Venice of North along with other canal-based cities such as Amsterdam and Birmingham.

 

•  Food

- Mussels & Frites - I don't really understand the relationship between Brussels and Mussels but well, the popularity is there for that and many restaurants offer good deal for the deal in addition to a pint or two of beers.

- Waffles - In all honesty, the waffles in this country is extremely delicious! There was never a day I could live without have one while I was there and it was at a reasonable rate of around 4 to 5 euros! You could add toppings of fruits and cream with extra cost but really, the powdery caster sugar is sufficient for me.

   

- Pastries - Boring old pastry to pair with the world's finest chocolate? Bon apetite!

• Atomium and mini Europe

Atomium is Brussels' signature icon and highest lookout point. It also serves as an exhibition centre for various events. The view of Brussels was spectacular in that winter's day with a light snow blanket atop the city. 

Mini-Europe is a miniature park with down-sized replicas of the wonders of Europe. It is situated right next to Atomium.

Brussels is easily within reach via train from London and easier still from Paris! In my opinion is a perfect stopover should you have a short holiday around the area and would love to cover just one more city or two should Bruges be included, Brussels would be a good choice.