Belgium: Small Size, Big Fun

There's just something about Belgium. Maybe it's the friendly & welcoming people. Maybe it's the stunning architecture lining the cobblestone streets. Perhaps it's the choice of over 450 types of beer or the smell of chocolate. No matter what your preferences, Belgium has something for everyone: romance, adventure, art, antiques, fashion, beer and chocolate! Energetic and carefree, the overall mood in Belgium is irresistible, beckoning visitors to take in the views of the Grand Place in Brussels as their worries melt away.

Located just 85 minutes from Paris, 1h51 minutes from London and 2 hours from Amsterdam by coach or train, the Belgian capital of Brussels encompasses all that Europe has to offer. The historical city of Brussels is one of the world's greatest cosmopolitan capitals, and offers 80 museums, seasonal markets, jazz festivals and a happening night life.

Beyond Brussels is a world of castles, stone-built villages and affordable restaurants that can be visited by coach, train or by renting a car. Belgium is multicultural and multilingual, with English being widely spoken among locals. Within a one-hour train ride, clients can be transported to the medieval city of Bruges or the romantic city of Namur and stroll hand-in-hand with a loved one. History buffs should be sure to visit Bastogne and the World War II memorial commemorating the Battle of the Bulge. Night-owls will appreciate the piano bars, cafés and concerts that make night in Liege unforgettable. Adventurous travelers can explore the countryside as they make their way to the relaxing town of Spa. Wherever your travels may lead, there is sure to be a hotel to fit every taste, style and need imaginable.

In advance of two beloved Belgian cartoons making it to the big screen next year - The Smurfs, scheduled for release summer 2011, and The Adventures of Tintin, scheduled for December 2011 - don't miss the Comic Strip Museum in Brussels or the Tintin Museum just outside Brussels, named after the cartoon's creator Hergé! Brussels and French-speaking Belgium have named 2012 the year of gastronomy, celebrating Belgian cuisine, and in 2015, Mons will welcome visitors as that year's European Cultural Capital!