Brussels is a city heading into the future, confidently poised at the crossroad of Europe. Known for its chocolates, cartoons and beer, Brussels is always ready to tackle challenges. The EU Parliament, the thriving business (Most visitors to Brussels come here on business), or the excellent transport system all add up to a promising place to be in. Before gaining independence in 1831, Brussels went through a number of upheavals but has been relentless in re-inventing itself. The result is today’s metropolis which is about one million strong.

Shoppers can head for Rue Neuve, the longest pedestrian shopping street in the City, or even the Galeries St.Hubert, which is Europe’s first shopping arcade. The Flea market promises bargains galore. Food lovers gather Petite Rue Des Bouchers, to sample exotic cuisine or Belgian fare from eels in green sauce or rabbit stew or the popular mussels and chips. Gables and decorated doorways have been carefully preserved in the lanes and nostalgia lingers there.

When you set out to explore the lower town, doing it on foot is the best. This is the best place to feel the city’s pulse as compared to the vast cobbled Grand Place, the highlight of Flemish Renaissance and every visitor must see that. The Town hall is the one that steals the show. A 15th century extravaganza. For four days in August, every alternate year, the square is carpeted with millions of flowers, celebrating historical scenes. When you wander through the old quarters, you come across a church or two. The façade of the Stock Exchange is impressive, and you will pass through the Lace Museum, the Puppet Theatre where a tenor singing of the homeland sparked the uprising in 1830. The Comic strip art museum presents Tintin and the Smurfs at the Art Nouveau building designed by Horta.