hops hops hops (Belgium)

For the second part of my program's European Study Tour, we all took the Eurostar to Brussels for the weekend. It was so great to have everyone together, including the kids studying in Paris and Madrid. There were quite a few early mornings, but it was honestly one of the best weekends that I've had in Europe thus far.

(European Parliament)

We toured European Parliament and held our own mock parliament based off of our individual travels (see previous entry). One morning was spent in Leuven, touring the Stella Artois brewery. It smelled pretty weird and we encountered yet another offbeat tourguide, but it was pretty cool, considering I don't even like beer...Nourishment for the weekend mainly consisted of a hearty hotel breakfast, chocolate and waffles. I couldn't leave without trying moules frites, which I really enjoyed.

(Stella Artois brewery)

Since a large part of our program was winding down, we took the opportunity to celebrate at an absinthe bar in Brussels. Located on a side alley off of the Grand Place, which is actually considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. The square itself was stunning, and I guess the absinthe could be considered stunning as well...

(Grand Place)

On our final day, we took a train to Brugge, the Venice of the North. Brugge was once an extremely wealthy city, so it's architecture was quite enjoyable. Filled with chocolate shops, small lace boutiques, and quaint restaurants (in stature, but certainly not in price), Brugge seemed to be quite a romantic place.

(Brugge)

Now I'm back in London for 5 weeks and I could not be more excited. As much as I have enjoyed my first set of travel experiences, I feel like I haven't been here for so long and there is still so much to do.