So, I just got back from Brussels, and wow, if I were to list the “best things to do in Brussels,” I'd probably start with that sunny day and a waffle I didn't even plan on having. It felt like every little twist and turn of my trip took me somewhere new and wonderful, even the parts I didn't expect.
The Unexpected First Stop
Right off the bat, I was nervously scrolling through my phone looking for the best spots. To be honest, I didn't know what to expect. I kept saying, “Brussels? Why not?” but deep down, I was hoping for magic. So, my first stop was the Grand Place, which everyone raves about. I mean, why not start with the centerpiece, right?
When I got there, something hit me. I kinda panicked. The place was jam-packed with tourists, and my heart sank a little. Am I really here for the same photos everyone else is snapping? I felt super lost amidst all the hustle. Then, all of a sudden, the sun came out, and honestly, it was like the entire square shifted. The buildings seemed to glow, and for a minute, I forgot about the masses around me.
I sank onto a bench, just soaking it all in when this street performer came out of nowhere. He was playing an accordion and it was the perfect soundtrack for the moment. I closed my eyes and thought, "You know what? This isn't so bad." It just reminded me that sometimes, the best experiences happen when you least expect them.
This Spot? Total Surprise
So, after getting my bearings, I wandered down a random side street. Honestly, I wasn't expecting much. But then, boom! I stumbled into a tiny little bookstore with the most charming name – I think it was something like “Libris.” It was less of a bookstore and more of a cozy meeting point between what felt like a friend's living room and that adorable cluttered attic you dream about finding.
The shelves were stuffed to the brim with books, and as I flipped through some of them, I felt a strong pull toward one that had a beautiful cover – all intricate and golden. It turned out to be a collection of Belgian folklore tales. I laughed out loud at how whimsical everything felt. This place, breathing with life, felt way more authentic than the usual tourist spots. I could've spent hours there, sipping coffee and reading random tales, but you know, I had a schedule or whatever—so I tore myself away.
The sweet woman who owned the place noticed my lingering gaze and waved me over, offering me a taste of a chocolate truffle she'd just made. I kid you not, I still can't find words to describe how decadent it was. It melted in my mouth, and I asked her for the recipe—though I know there's no way I'd ever recreate that magic.
The Afternoon That Changed My Whole Mood
Anyways, feeling all warm and fuzzy from the bookstore, I headed toward the Atomium. Now, that was a bit of a detour, and my poor sense of direction was apparently in full swing. I found myself wandering around a park, with the Atomium nowhere in sight. But you know what? I don't really mind those wrong turns. It led me to see some bustling locals at this park market filled with handmade goodies.
The atmosphere was so different; people were laughing, bartering, and just… living their lives. I ended up trying a bunch of street food, and oh my god, that falafel? Divine. I wish I could tell you exactly where it was from, but the joy of the moment kind of eclipsed any logical thought about taking notes.
Finally, I made it to the Atomium just as the sun began to set. This colossal structure, all shiny and futuristic, was like something out of a sci-fi film. Being up there, looking out at the sprawling city, I felt this wave of clarity wash over me. For a second, doubts I had about my trip, my life, everything melted away. It was just me and the city below. I was totally grateful I made that detour.
I Almost Missed This, No Thanks to My Bad Sense of Direction
Fast forward to my last night in Brussels, and I'm wandering around, trying to find a place to grab dinner. I had this one restaurant in mind, famous for its moules-frites. However, as you might have guessed, I ended up completely off course. My phone's GPS was being all dramatic with me, and I thought, “Great, now I'm definitely going to starve.”
Finally, I found a little corner spot that looked kind of cute, but I was still hesitant as I walked in. It didn't look like much on the outside, and part of me was still wishing for the fancy restaurant I had in mind. But honestly? I sat down, and the vibe there just felt right. The waiter was super friendly, and they had a chalkboard special that caught my eye.
Long story short, I ordered this amazing plate of duck served with a cherry sauce. I'm normally a little picky about my food, but I was blown away. It was savory and sweet all at once, and my tastebuds felt like they were throwing a party. Just goes to show that sometimes, the places you stumble into can be the best experiences you never planned for.
Wrapping It All Up—Sort Of
As I sit here with a coffee and reflect on that incredible trip, I can't help but grin. The best things to do in Brussels took me to places I never knew I needed. Each little moment—like the perfect chocolate truffle, the warming street musician, and the comforting duck dish—made my trip feel like this otherworldly adventure. It wasn't map-perfect; it was messy, funny, and so real. Those moments of doubt or confusion morphed into experiences that I'll carry with me.
I suppose that's what travel is really about, right? Embracing those unexpected moments. Now, even days later as I sip this coffee and think back on it all, I'm reaching across the table, wishing I could share more stories with you. But for now, I'll just linger in this magical afterglow of exploration and memories.
