Brussels has a long history. Working as an important fortress in the 10th century, it’s evolved over the centuries into a very significant world city. Brussels is actually the largest city in Belgium with around two million people calling the city home. This, along with its vast influence in the economy of Europe and it’s location, it’s a city full of different cultures, making it a great spot for a vacation. Just be sure to get a new United States passport before you leave.
Getting a passport is a breeze with expedited US passport pages services. Not only do you get to apply for your passport online, but you also get it as quickly as you need it. It definitely beats having to drive to the post office, wait in line, fill out the confusing paperwork, and then wait 8-14 weeks on top of that for it to be delivered. Other services are available too. For instance, you can get expedited passport pages for your current passport if you are running low, something that is important to consider, as many places won’t allow you entry if you don’t have enough blank pages.
Deciding on in a place in which to get your adventure started can be daunting, but look no further than Grand-Place. Grand-Place is Brussels’ central square, and it is actually an official UNESCO World Heritage Site as well. Once you step into the square, you will be surrounded by buildings three centuries old. Of course you can expect to experience shopping in authentic Belgian stores, as well as opportunities to sample some Belgian cuisine (including famous Belgian waffles), to do a little people-watching, and to see some very important Belgian landmarks. One of the most famous landmarks in Belgium, and one of the most famous statues in the world, is Mannekin Pis, a 17th century bronze statue of a young boy peeing into the fountain he stands on.
During your browsing of Place-Royal, make sure you swing by the Musee Rene Magritte. This museum is among the most loved in Brussels, and is named after Rene Magritte, a surrealist artist whose work fills the museum. This fascinating museum features 200 pieces of art on various forms of media, meaning it won’t be like visiting any old art museum. The Museum des Sciences Naturelles is a natural history museum featuring a world-famous dinosaur exhibit. If you are interesting in learning even more about the Belgian culture, visit the Musee des Instruments de Musique, the Musical Instruments Museum. Over 7000 are on display inside, with some varying from relatively normal to very odd.
Beer is an integral component to Belgian culture. If consider yourself a lover of fine brews, definitely stop by the Cantillon Brewery. Well-known around Brussels for their fresh and delicious beer, this traditional brewery also offers a fun and interesting tour. Not to mention there are free samples involved. As you’re leaving, be sure to pick up a case (or two) of their flavored beers.
The Belgian culture has many faces, and seeking to uncover them all is one of the reasons a trip to Belgium is worth taking. Be sure to grab your new USA passport before you travel there, or be sure to get an expired one renewed. Also check to be sure you have enough blank pages, and if not, expedited U.S. passport pages are available online.