Fall in love with Belgium.

Bruges, Belgium

Looking for a fall getaway? I can’t think of a reason as to why you shouldn’t choose Belgium. Tucked between France and the Netherlands and spanning the size of Maryland, this place packs a punch able to knock out even the most well seasoned traveler. I recently spent a long weekend getting lost within its beautiful borders based on a round trip flight into Brussels, where I found an unreal deal (under $300 return) to the capital and largest airport. Theres no need to rent a car here, trains make it too easy to get around and with the invention of the smart phone, buying tickets ahead of time can prove handy and save both time and money. https://www.belgiantrain.be/en

Ghent, Belgium

Greetings from Ghent. A lively city that still manages to ooze old world charm. Coming from the Brussels airport, this was my first stop as it’s on the way to Bruges. After arriving early in Brussels this proved to be the perfect pick: with its historical quarter, massive cathedral and picturesque embankments begging for a stroll. Visiting this town for a few hours will find yourself wishing you had a few days (like this guy).

Bruges, Belgium

Picture yourself in a sunny square under a medieval spire digging into a plate of delicious Belgium waffles. Sigh, you must be in Bruges! A wonderful preserved town that was once one of the largest cities in the world. Today, it comes with fancy beers, throbs of tourists and gothic souvenirs of its long gone past. You can escape all of the bustle by taking the backstreets. I found myself wandering its cobblestone lanes and pondering what life would have been like here back in its heyday.

Damme Canal, Belgium

Looking for a side trip from Bruges? Meet Damme: An almost forgotten in time sleepy village that is about as quaint as they come. Farmers mingle in the village square as locals sip on sudsy beers. The town has a delightful walking path that meanders through its moody back alleys. It is the perfect escape and only a 30 minute bike ride from the center of Bruges.

Grand Place, Brussels, Belgium

How about some Mussels in Brussels? I couldn’t leave without exploring this great city and my first stop was Grand Place. Arguably the best square in all of Europe,Highly regarded as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world and definitely meets the hype. Packed with school and tour groups, the square is the ultimate destination to people watch over a cold Belgium ale. You’re probably wondering, aren’t you hungry Chris? Good question, YES! And, always! Did you know Brussels packs more Michelin star restaurants per square mile than London and Paris combined? With its close proximity to the sea, I can’t recommend the seafood enough. Listed below are a couple of my suggestions on where to eat and stay.

WHERE TO EAT:

• Belga Queen in Ghent: this restaurant is set in a 13th-century granary on the oldest canal in town. Enjoy low-beamed ceilings, a backlit lounge, and stainless-steel accents, and stellar seafood.

• Old Chocolate House in Bruges: A family-owned shop and cafe offering homemade hot chocolate, various desserts, tea and coffee. If you want to enjoy real hot chocolate, this is the place. The acclaimed chocolate store is located downstairs and the charming tearoom is located upstairs where you can make your own hot chocolate.

• House of Waffles in Bruges: An oasis serving up steaming cups of coffee and freshly baked waffles with an abundant variety of both sweet or savory to choose from.

• Soup in Bruges: Nothing says fall like a soul-warming bowl of soup. This place has it all and is also very cheap.

• Bar Antiques in Dammes: Wow! I stopped here unexpectedly on my bike ride and wasn’t disappointed. I enjoyed a cheeky beer on a sunny day on their patio and as the restaurant name implies, perused the antique and eclectic decor.

• Beaucoup Fish in Brussels: delectable seafood with great service

• Tonton Garby in Brussels: Believe the hype! Simply the best sandwiches I had in all of Belgium.

• Friterie du Miroir in Brussels: Even though this place is not in the heart of the city, lovers of the famous fries have found it, so the queues may be similar to those in the city center. Preparing fresh fries from scratch, its definitely worth a visit!
  

WHERE TO STAY:

• Hotel 28 in Bruges: I cannot recommend this place enough! Very comfortable rooms with a knowledgeable host in the heart of the city in a highly walkable location.

• Art de Sejour in Brussels: ideally located near Grand Place, you cannot beat this centrally located Bed and Breakfast

Hotel 28 in Bruges, Belgium