Brussels likes to call itself the heart of Europe and it has some powerful evidence to back up its claim. It is the home of the Council of Ministers, where many of the decisions of European politics are made. It also houses the European Commission, the EU’s executive arm, and the headquarters of NATO.

Brussels has the glorious architecture, varied shopping and sophisticated nightlife to rival any European capital. History is all around you here in the elegant facades of buildings, many of which date back to the Middle Ages, and in the winding streets of the central area.

The most famous area is the Grand' Place, a beautiful square surrounded by Gothic architecture. This is the St Mark's Square of Brussels, and is lively and bustling with tourists by day and with bars and restaurants by night. This may not be the best place in terms of price to try your first cornet of chips, but for location it can't be beat. Other specialities are chocolate (the Neuhaus shops, found throughout the city, offer pre-packaged gift boxes, or you can make up your own assortment), and, of course,

beer.

Belgium is the country that apparently has the best beer in the world. Therefore, your stay in Brussels cannot be complete without a visit to one of the many typical and beautiful cafes and pubs that you will find here. Try the local beers of Brussels Gueuze or fruit beer (cherry beer, raspberry beer, peach beer) or a wonderful Trappist beer, made in one of the Abbeys of Belgium. Be Careful when drinking a Trappist beer though, as they tend to be very strong (between 8 and 11.5 percent of alcohol!!).

One of the great joys of Brussels is eating and drinking, the restaurants are superb, sometimes a little expensive, but if you explore the side streets you will find some culinary delights at reasonable prices serving local specialities as well as international cuisine.

With a pleasant temperate climate, warm summers and mild winters, and a host of sights and delights to entertain, Brussels has a lot to offer.

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