Vikas’ Journey Through Art, Chocolate, and Medieval Marvels in Belgium with Thrillophilia
For me, travelling alone is about discovering a new place and uncovering new dimensions of yourself. When I decided to visit Belgium, it was not because I had meticulously planned the trip for years. In fact, it was almost impulsive - a sudden desire to break away from the monotony of life and lose myself in the quiet charm of a country I barely knew. I had no set expectations, no grand plans. All I knew was that Belgium, with its cobblestone streets, medieval towns, and indulgent delights, felt like the perfect place to hit the pause button and simply be.
As I landed in Brussels, I was greeted by a soft and fresh air that felt like a gentle nudge forward. It was a journey into the unknown corners of my mind - a chance to navigate life through a new lens, one Belgian waffle at a time.
Finding My Rhythm in Brussels
The heart of Belgium - Brussels - unfolded slowly, like a storybook waiting to be read. My first day started leisurely, with the hum of a hop-on-hop-off bus engine as my companion. Listening to the audio guide, I learned about the layered history of the city as I gazed out at landmarks like the regal Royal Palace and the Art Nouveau marvels that lined the streets.
What struck me most was the rhythm of the city. People moved with a sense of purpose yet never seemed hurried. Cafés split onto sidewalks, inviting strangers to linger over a coffee. It felt different from my life back home - a life constantly rushing forward. Here, I could pause. And pause I did, at a small café near the Grand Place.
The square itself was breathtaking, every inch a masterpiece of architecture. As I sipped my coffee and admired the intricate details of the guildhalls, I could not help but feel a sense of belonging. Noticing my surprise, a kind waiter said with a smile, “The Grand Place always has that effect. It reminds us to look up and appreciate what is around us.” His words stayed with me as I wandered the city to seek stories.
Beer, Chocolate, and the Joy of Creation
The following days were a sensory feast. At the Belgian Beer World, I immersed myself in the art of brewing. Guided by passionate locals, I learned how beer here was a cultural emblem. Each sip told a tale of craftsmanship passed down through generations.
From beer, I moved to chocolate - the other great pride of Belgium. A workshop at Choco-Story Brussels turned out to be unexpectedly therapeutic. As I melted, poured, and moulded chocolate into shapes, I realised how much joy could be found in creating something with your own hands. The room smelled of cocoa and laughter, and for a moment, I was a child again, carefree and curious.
These experiences were reminders of the beauty in tradition, the pride in heritage, and the simple pleasure of doing something with intention.
A Window to the Past in Gentle Ghent
When I arrived in Ghent, it was exactly a living postcard. The medieval charm of the city was both humbling and enchanting. My boat tour along the Kraanlei quay offered a tranquil perspective, gliding past historic buildings reflected in the still waters of the canals.
Ghent had a way of slowing time. Whether it was standing in awe beneath the tall spires of St. Bavo’s Cathedral or wandering through the halls of the Museum of Fine Arts, I found myself staying longer than usual, soaking in the atmosphere.
What struck me most about Ghent was how seamlessly it blended its past and present. Ancient structures housed modern cafes and cobblestone streets led to vibrant markets. It felt like a place that had learned to carry its history with pride while still embracing the now - a lesson I found quietly inspiring.
The Art of Living in Antwerp
My final destination, Antwerp, was a celebration of contrasts. Known as the diamond capital of the world, the city sparkled in more ways than one. Its vibrant streets were lined with boutiques, art galleries, and stunning architecture.
At the Cathedral of Our Lady, I stood before works by Rubens and their grandeur and emotion left me speechless. In contrast, my visit to Rubenshuis felt intimate - a glimpse into the life of a man who lived and breathed art.
But Antwerp was not all about art and history. At the zoo, I found unexpected joy. Watching children’s faces light up at the sight of exotic animals, I was reminded of life’s simple pleasures. The zoo was a sanctuary of wonder and connection, and a fitting end to my journey.
A Journey to Remember
As I boarded my train back to Brussels for my flight home, I reflected on how Belgium had surprised me. It was not just a country of chocolate, beer, and medieval beauty. It was a place that encouraged me to slow down, to savour each moment, and to find joy in both the grand and the mundane.
Travelling solo through Belgium was a return - to myself, to curiosity, and to the endless possibilities that life holds. And, as the train sped through the countryside, I felt a quiet gratitude for this small country with a big heart and the transformative journey it had offered.
Read More: Thrillophilia Belgium Reviews