Belgium

Come to Belgium and experience the quiet boastfulness that this country allows. Rich in history, culture , art and architecture, visitors will be surprised by the depth and character of this small nation that goes virtually unheralded on the world stage.

Since the times of Julius Caesar, Belgium has seen several alterations. From the Romans and English occupation by Germany through war, the country has absorbed many cultures and much history. History shows us that this country has been rocked by both war and civil dissolution, leaving a trail of change that only seems to add to its strengths. What has been constant through the centuries is Belgium's quaint majesty.

Although Belgium does not loom large geographically, the complexity of the culture and the joviality of its people are world renowned. Within the borders of a country the size of the state of Maryland, visitors can view landscapes and scenery unlike any in the world, while enjoying both history and culture that is paramount to the area. Travelers can rent apartments or houses in any one of the quaint towns in Belgium and find a rich world of culture and entertainment is at their doorstep. Walking through the towns, visitors can take in the sights of beautiful gardens and abbeys along the cobblestone streets. Enjoy the many museums and architectural wonders that Belgium has to offer. Throughout the year, there are festivals and fairs, concerts and shows, revealing the intricacy of the arts and traditions of this country. Take a trip through many of the towns and cities in Belgium via the River cruises that flow up and down the waterways. Conveniently making access to many of the most sought-after places much simpler, these cruise boats are a regular part of the scenery in Belgium.

If you are looking for a more adventurous trip, Belgium offers several outdoor activities that allow you to take in the diversity of the geography. Take a bike ride through French-speaking Wallonia along rolling hills and fields. Biking enthusiasts can find yearly events like races or tour rides in many of the regions of the country. Perhaps your rented house lies near one of the many lakes or rivers in Belgium. Take advantage of your location and enjoy some kayaking or canoeing, which can be a family-friendly activity for all ages. Once you've finished your canoe trip, take up an angle and try your luck with freshwater or sea fishing. Try some cast-fishing in the rivers or travel to the coast and drop your line off one of the jetties near the fishing piers that supply this country with its abundance of seafood.

Still not enough excitement? Several companies exist that specialize in adventure sports such as shooting and mountain or rock climbing. On the other hand, if you're looking to slow things down, the plethora of golf courses peppered throughout Belgium make it easy to find somewhere to get in at least nine holes a day. Boasting the origin of the name, no trip to Belgium would be complete without a trip to the spa. Named after the region that cured Czar Peter the Great of his ailments in the eighteenth century, luxury is truly at the fingertips in Belgium. Not yours, but those of the hands of the many masseuse at work in the resorts and spas in the region. Enjoy a luxurious massage while enjoying a bit of Belgian chocolate, or a nice Belgian beer.

Speaking of Belgian beer, take the time to visit the Geuze museum to taste and see the making of one of the famous Belgian beers. Think more about chocolate? Producing more than 172,000 pounds of the delicacy each year, Belgian chocolate is known worldwide as the ultimate in indulgence.

There are dozens of museums throughout the country, offering everything from art nouveau to diamonds, cars and history. This is an old country, in the most real sense, teeming with history and art not seen anywhere else in the world. On the economic end, Belgium houses Antwerp, the diamond capital of the world. Take in the brilliance of the museums there as well as the time to enjoy some shopping at any one of the high end retailers. Another luxury purchase found in Belgium are the tapestries. They have been sought after for six hundred years by people all over the world. Although quiet on the surface of world news, this beautiful country has a lot to offer any vacationer. Visit any one of the regions of Belgium to see the vast culture that awaits you there.