Belgium
In 2003, Belgium became the second country worldwide to legalize same-sex marriage. And as queer travelers, we always feel safe here.
GHENT: A Vegan Haven
Ghent may not be your first choice when traveling to Belgium. But it could easily be!
Graslei & Korenlei
Perhaps one of the most beautiful parts of Ghent are the opposite quays of Graslei and Korenlei at the Leie river. Graslei and Korenlei were part of the medieval port and we just loved these unique buildings and the beautiful views.
Graffiti Street
No visit to Ghent is complete without a visit to Graffiti Street or Werregarenstraat. This alley is full of professional and amateur graffiti. Come early and be patient!
Historic Ghent
The historical center of Ghent was surprisingly interesting and so beautiful. We enjoyed walking around so much. And that was the best part: it was so easy to just walk everywhere!
Het Patershol
Het Patershol, right next to the historic center of Ghent, was so adorable. Just wander through the streets and alleys and take a million pictures! Every few feet, everything looks so different and even prettier than before. ;)
BRUGES: It's Getting Romantic!
Bruges was one of our first international trips together, right before the pandemic hit. So our memories are sometimes a bit vague, to be honest, but here is what we do remember!
Canals of Bruges
Can Bruges be called the Venice of Belgium? We think so! And this was actually our favorite thing to do: walk around and enjoy all the canals, taking a lot of pictures because every canal looks differently (does it, though?).
The Minnewater
The Minnewater, the Lake of Love, is surrounded by a beautiful park. Perfect for a quiet day of walking in nature.
Architecture
Bruges and its historic center are an architecture lover's dream! There is so much to explore, but our favorites were the Burg and Market Squares and the Hanseatic Quarter.
The Begijnhof
The Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaerde in Bruges is a serene, UNESCO-listed compound of whitewashed houses, a church, and a quiet garden. It was founded in 1245 and used to house lay religious women (Beguines). Nowadays, it is home to Benedictine nuns. The compound is open for free, but visitors are expected to maintain silence.
BRUSSELS: The Belgian Capital
We only stopped in Brussels briefly on our way to and from Bruges. But it was an essential stop because ...
Museum of Natural Sciences
As a dedicated dinosaur lover, Cora discovered before our trip that the Brussels Museum of Natural Sciences has an impressive dinosaur collection. So: off we went to meet our friends, the dinosaurs! The collection was indeed formidable, and we highly recommend a visit!
The Grote Markt
The Grote Markt, Brussels' central market square, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The square is surrounded by 17th-century Baroque guildhalls, the Gothic City Hall, and the King's House. Don't forget to visit the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries!