Surprising few things are known for this stable country, which gave birth to one of the first European cities and whose early painters have the merits for the inventing of the oil painting. Probably the lack of passionate nationalist feelings is result from the various cultures that have been melting for centuries. You will enjoy and incomparable vacation if you choose to visit Belgium and have a great stay at any of the vacation rentals here.

Belgium has a population of over 10 million people; it’s bordering with: Germany, Netherlands, France, Luxemburg and the North Sea on North West.

Bruges, Belgium by Coy!

Without even trying to be ostentatious, Belgium is able to enchant the visitors with a number of things: from the historically rich cities and the serene hillocky Ardennes to the wonderful cafes, bars and charming vacation home rentals which will make you feel at home. The official languages are three: Flamand, French and German. The capital of Belgium is Brussels- 80 % of which are French- speaking. Antwerpen is the world’s diamond trade center.

Bruges is the Flanders’s capital. Preserving its authentic medieval architecture, the city is one of the most visited places in Belgium. It has been announced as the European cultural capital in the year of 2002. The city’s central square is a colourful palette of flags, depicting lions and lilies- ancient families’ coats of arms. The square is surrounded by antiques and shops for the world famous needle lace.

Another popular sight is the Notre Dame Cathedral, whose construction took two centuries- from 13th to 15th – with a tower 122 meters high. It is the home for the Michelangelo’s Madonna of Bruges statue made out of white marble, depicting Virgin Mary and the infant Jesus; as well as the sarcophagus of Mary of Burgundy and Charles the Bold. There are plenty of hospitable apartment rentals located near it offering an excellent view of the Cathedral.

The Basilica of the Holy Blood is a unique edifice, consisting of two chapels, built one over the other. It is believed that the legend for the Holy Grail- the grail form which Jesus Christ sipped and which contained his blood after his dead, starts namely from here. Similarly to many other European cities, the City Hall is the oldest building- the Gothic edifice built between 1376-1420, stands proudly impressing with the facade of a stone lace.

Basilica of the Holy Blood, Bruges, Belgium by raider of gin

Bruges’s channels, also called The Venice on the North, offer tourist tours, combining in one splendid panoramas and the encounter with the medieval looking city, being a significant part of the world historical heritage. Let’s not underestimate the chocolate shops at every turn, which fragrance acts like a magnet for the visitors. No matter the occasion, which brings you in Belgium, the season or the vacation rental types accommodation you have choosen for your stay, you will surely enjoy a profound and unforgettable holiday with a scent of chocolate.

Article has been written by https://www.vacation-rentals.com/blog/.

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After a recent trip with friends to Cologne, here are 5 sights worth seeing in the city:

1. Visit the Cathedral (Kölner Dom)

A trip to Cologne cannot be completed without visiting the Cathedral. This historic landmark in the centre of the city attracts 1000s of tourists every single day. Standing at over 140 metres tall, there are 533 steps to the top. These are accessible for a €3 fee. Be warned though; the staircase is narrow and winding, with those coming down passing those on their way up. And there’s no lift.

Cologne Cathedral / Pedro Szekely

The Cathedral is situated outside Cologne’s central train station (Köln Hauptbahnhof/ Köln Hbf); easily accessible to tourists. During this recent trip I embarked on, a train ticket from our nearest train station was just €11.10 for a group of five of us to get to the central station. And yes, the trains were on time.

2. Visit the Zoo (Kölner Zoo)

If you’ve made a trip to Cologne with your family and children, then a trip to the zoo is on the cards for you. A day pass sets you back just €15, while students and children get in for cheaper.

Cologne Zoo is the largest zoo in Germany; there are thousands of animals and species in the surroundings. This is home to Northern Europe’s largest elephant park as well as a large aquarium.

3. Visit the No. 4711 Shop

Eau de Cologne perfume originated in this city on way to becoming a very famous, well-known toiletry. If you’re going with a lady friend, or are a lady for that matter, a trip to the forty-seven eleven shop is a must. Bottles of the Cologne come in all shapes and sizes here.

The 4711 shop we stepped into during our trip had a running tap by the door. This allowed us to take in the very strong, distinctive smell of the perfume.

4. Cross the Hohenzollern Bridge (Hohenzollernbrücke)

The Hohenzollern Bridge crosses over the river Rhine. A bridge that survived World War II, today is home hundreds and thousands of love padlocks. Attached to the fence between the sidewalk and tracks, there are padlocks in all colours and sizes, firmly secured with the names of many couples.

Certainly the most romantic gesture I’ve come across by a train track. A visit to this site with your partner awaits. Secure your padlock onto the fence and throw your key into the river, joining the many couples who have previously visited:

Cologne Cathedral and the Hohenzollern Bridge / Jiuguang Wang

5. Visit the Local Bars

Cologne is popular amongst beer lovers. The city has its own locally brewed beer, going by the name of Kölsch. Thirteen different breweries produce their own Kölsch. During our time in Cologne, we tested Gaffel, Früh and Dom Kölsch to name just a few.

Being a Brit use to drinking a pint of beer, the sizes were a little disappointing in Cologne. The majority of time we were served in 0.2L glasses that made you feel like you had taken just a sip when you reached the bottom. At around €1 a glass it also worked out a little pricier than what we are use to paying back home (even in London!).

Another recommendation when trying the beer… buy yourself a barrel. Just like we did one evening:

Photo of Barrie Smith pouring Gaffel Kölsch from his barrel

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