"Brussels, Belgium." a Brussels Travel Page by SWFC_Fan

Brussels is not only the capital of Belgium, but also the capital of the European Union. For this reason, many people seem to be under the illusion that Brussels is a dull, bureaucratic city.

Prior to my first visit to Brussels, I read a lot of derogatory remarks about the city, but I think Brussels is great!

Brussels - a dull city?

No, I don't think so. Brussels (well, Belgium generally) has the best selection of beers in the world, loads of great places to enjoy them in, hundreds of chocolate shops, outdoor cafes and small outlets selling waffles and frites.....

....then there's the Grand Place. The architecture is breathtaking (and this is coming from someone who doesn't usually find architecture particularly interesting!).....

....and the cosmopolitan population. My first visit there coincided with the 2002 World Cup final, and Brazil's victory was greeted by wild street celebrations with hundreds of Brazilians dancing in the streets, banging drums and gathering around the exchange building.

Brussels - a dirty city?

Well, it's not spotlessly clean, but where is? It's no worse that most UK cities, and probably a lot cleaner than many of Europe's capitals.

Brussels - under a perpetual grey cloud?

Well, perhaps the weather isn't great, but that's hardly Brussels' fault! Besides, both times I have been there, the weather has been gloriously sunny!

So, if you've never been to Brussels, don't believe everything that you read about it.