Dear Brussels: Until we meet again

My dearest Brussels,

It took me a while to find you. I know where you are geographically, of course. However, you were never quite on my bucket list of places to visit. After finally seeing you and discovering your hidden secrets, I apologize we weren’t acquainted sooner. While a good majority of my friends prefer the canals of Bruges or the medieval allure of Ghent, I much prefer you. Such an eclectic mix of ostentatious grandeur, quirky shops, amazing delicacies and odd statues appearing in the least likely of places, you’re my kind of city.

The first time we met, it was a bitterly cold day in November. The Christmas markets hadn’t quite popped up, but there was a sense of something magical in the air. The hilly neighborhoods we trekked through to reach the city center added to the breathlessness we felt as we gazed upon the Grand Place. Surrounded by beautifully gilded architecture dating back to the 14th century, the cafes and shops spilled out onto the square. The tantalizing aroma of warm “gaufres” or waffles filled the air. We tasted the exquisite chocolates and had our fair share of paper cones filled with crispy “frites.” Not to mention the potent brews you’re famous for.

The last time we met, it was all too brief. We were in town to cheer on our son at a wrestling tournament. We decided to try something a little different and took the Eurostar from London to you. Relying on public transportation to get us where we needed to go, we were able to see a different side of you. As we ventured into the less touristy places, we found you to be all the more enchanting. Incredibly friendly and helpful people patiently listened to my butchered French before answering in near-perfect English. Surrounding neighborhoods were vibrant with an array of delicious food and cultures. The Parc de Bruxelles and exquisite Royal Palace adjacent to the park were serene and peaceful.

I wish I had known it was the last time we’d see each other before we depart Europe. I would have stayed at least another day and roamed along the old cobblestones. I would have explored the Delirium village and sampled more of their award-winning brews that are difficult to find outside the city. People watching and comparing different waffle vendors would have also been high on my to-do list.

I know I’ll get back to you again someday. I wish it were sooner rather than later, but at least we had those few stolen days together. For that, I am incredibly grateful. Stay as unique and incredible as you are.

Au revoir ma chère,

A writer who misses you.