A relaxing day in Brussels

Today we strolled and took in the sights of aMonday in central Brussels. Since our accommodation is well located we can find our way around and back without much difficulty. It is much easier to get around Brussels than Amsterdam because the city is built more in grids while Amsterdam seems to run in circles because of the canals.

We made our way to Central station to buy our tickets to Brugge  for tomorrow and then went in search of  Manneken-Pis, Brussels cheesy mascot. It is a little statue of a little boy peeing which apparently symbolizes the city's irreverence and love of the good life. He is often dressed in outfits from around the world that are sent to him. Today he was dressed for winter by the International Polar Foundation.

                                               Yes,it looks like he is peeing on my head!

As we walked we saw oodles of Chocolate shops since Belguim is the number one exporter of chocolate in the world. We had a small sample given one small chocolate is approximately 2€.

                                           So many choices...

Also lots of Beer Shops....

                                           Taking out his glasses to check out the selection!

And pastry shops...

                                                They all look good!


And waffle stands...

                                          At least it has two servings of fruit!

There are many small squares in the city with local arts and crafts...

                                                   Checking out the paintings

                                                 Colorful jewellry,at least one made it to my luggage

Street musicians...

And tourist police on horses...

                                              You go that way...

And cute kids playing around..

We then spent the rest of the day sitting under a heater in a sidewalk cafe taking in the sights. No museums visited in Brussels since there were none on the list that caught our attention.Much better sights on the streets!

We finished the day at a local restaurant that has no sign, no posted menu but excellent Belgium food...

                                               Stew made with local beer

                                            Ham bone with mustard...

So much for the end to a great day!!