Wanderlust. It’s an “affliction” I’ve had since my youth, the desire to explore new places and discover new things. In my late teens, I traveled all over Europe visiting capital cities and countries. There was Austria, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Scandinavia, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, to name a few. But Belgium wasn’t on my radar. At least it wasn’t until a job opportunity appeared there in 2016.
When Americans “do Europe,” their trips generally focus on the most popular cities: London, Paris, Rome, Amsterdam and maybe Berlin. Some choose Athens, Barcelona, Lisbon and Madrid. However, Belgium doesn’t seem to be on the travel itinerary of most Americans. When I have friends trekking to Europe, it’s a challenge to convince them to make a stop in Brussels. Hmmm…maybe it’s a good thing to keep this amazing place a secret?
With the pandemic slowing and borders opening, Americans are busy making travel plans. Many are planning to “do Europe.” But what does that mean? You guessed it: the big names. ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorization System, lists the most popular countries for American travellers as Italy, France and Germany. And it’s no surprise that Paris, London and Rome were the big three on the annual US News & World Report list of best vacation destinations in Europe.
The European Hot Spots:
The US News & World Report top vacation destinations were:
- Paris
- London
- Rome
- Florence
- Barcelona
- Swiss Alps
- Amsterdam
- Santorini
- Amalfi Coast
- Prague
- Venice
- Athens
- Cyprus
- Vienna
- Madrid
- Dublin
- Stockholm
- Budapest
- Azores
- Berlin
- Munich
- Copenhagen
- Istanbul
- Seville
- Reykjavik
Ready to Travel?
France and Spain have opened their borders to fully vaccinated travellers, joining Denmark and Greece. That’s good news for travellers. Here are the statistics: In 2019, Spain, Italy and France made up about half of all overnight stays for international tourists visiting the EU. Spain was the most popular spot for international tourists. The nation racked up 299 million nights!
The top 10 for international tourist visits in the EU were:
Spain (#1), Italy (#2), France (#3), Greece (#4), Austria (#5), Germany (#6), Croatia (#7), Netherlands (#8), Portugal (#9) and the Czech Republic (#10).
Belgium was close, coming in 12th in the rankings. The good news is that the country’s tourism has been ranked second among the EU countries for growth (2018). I’m hoping more people will discover this hidden jewel of Europe. And part of me is hoping it doesn’t become as swarmed with tourists as Croatia, Prague and Paris.
In Belgium, we have the world’s best beers and chocolate, more castles per square foot than anywhere on earth, incredible food, great museums and culture, and fabulous historical cities like Antwerp, Brussels, Bruges and Ghent. Beat the rush and make plans to visit. You won’t be disappointed.
Your article brings back many wonderful memories of my vacation in Belgium. During my stay, we visited many of the places you’ve listed. Many were close enough to Brussels, near where I stayed, that we could take many day trips to nearby countries, as well as explore much of Belgium. Had I stayed longer, there was so much more to see. Since I had never been to Europe, I wanted to see as much as possible to get a real feel for the culture, food, landscape, and history. I would love to see more!
I would love to come to Belgium with my husband as long as we get to go on a hike with you! I want to travel all over Europe and I have been enjoying your posts.
You are absolutely right. After many overseas jaunts starting as a teenager, Belgium never made the list. I have only had the pleasure of vicariously visiting through your wonderful
posts and photos. Keep them coming.
I’ve just come back from a few days in the Ardennes. The countryside is beautiful, the food and the beer great and the history fascinating. Add Namur, Bastogne, Bouillon and Orval (to name but 4) to your list of places to visit in Belgium.
I would love to visit Belgium some day, I have only visited England in my past European excursion, You are correct I don’t here others talking about visiting Belgium but I have seen your photo’s and would love to see those site’s.
Excellent article
Really informative
Many thanks!!!
Karen
Good article that makes a great point! I feel fortunate to have “found” Belgium years ago and have several friends who have both hosted me and taken me on tours of many of Belgium’s beautiful places. It is one of the most beautiful places on earth! The food, beer, frites and chocolate are beyond compare. The architecture, as well as the landscapes, are a photographer’s dream. Do yourself a favor and get yourself to Belgium!!
I loved reading this. Great picture of you too. I can’t wait to get back to Europe someday and Belgium is on my list!
I have been travelling to northern Europe for over 25 years. Taking in Belgium, Northern France near the border to Belgium. Where the countries blur with traditional Flemish food and more importantly beer! This article to me highlights what the rest of the world is missing by heading south.
This was a very good article. Was like visiting with out going there