Brussels 

I didn't know what to expect with Belgium, especially considering the recent airport attack. I almost skipped it after my taxi driver told me it was so dangerous, his niece was recently attacked by a gang of Muslim boys and that he couldn't believe I would even go to the country. Well, being the person I am, I knew I had to go so that I could formulate my own opinion. Needless to say, it is a beautiful country however I would recommend other places in Europe before Belgium.

Hotel Amigo, brussels

The Hotel Amigo was great! From the moment you pull up, you receive first class service. The hotel keeps it traditional, the male staff members wore top hats and coat tails, very professional. The service was topnotch. Our concierge went out of his way to find me a Belgian Chocolate making class which he was able to reserve as a private tour. 

We quickly realized that it is difficult to drive in the city. We spent far too much time circling the town center trying to find our hotel. The hotel ended up sending the doorman to drive us in! How embarrassing!

The location was on point. We were literally a block away from the town square. Tons of shopping and restaurants. 

belgian food

What better way to experience a new culture than trying all of their specialties. I knew I had to try; chocolate, waffles and of course the beer. The waffles were a full on dessert. There are several shops that sell only waffles. They are similar to ice-cream shops in that you pick any topping your heart desires. The waffles were rather messy, I ended up staining my Ted Baker blouse! Oh well, just like Forest Gump says, 's*!T happens!

Chocolate making class

When I think of Belgium, the first thing I think of is chocolate. All of the good chocolate comes from the country, including my favorite...Godiva. Our hotel concierge booked Jim and I on a private chocolate factory tour and class. I was imagining it to be like WILLY WANKA and the chocolate factory with chocolate flowing everywhere and maybe a few oompa loompas (just kidding). Well, I wasn't lost in an Oasis of sweets with the chocolate king however I did get a great hands on experience with the owner of Concept Chocolate. 

He started with a history lesson on chocolate. He let us test and feel raw cocoa beans, followed by a quick video. We then got to go into their kitchen and see how the chocolate is actually made. Finally we got to make our own to take home. This tour is a must!