Brussels-Random hotel, alumni, waffles and beer

When we first got into Brussels, we didn't have a for sure place to stay so we booked a hotel from one of those discount hotel websites and hoped for the best. Without too much trouble we navigated the public transportation system and with a signal from the tram driver we got off at our stop for the night, Ste Marie. We somewhat aimlessly made our way through a slightly sketchy square in which groups of old men sat around drinking, smoking, and casting us knowing glances. Yes, we didn't know where we were or what we were getting ourselves into.

Somehow we managed to find the Albert Hotel and climbed the 6 flights of spiral stairs to reach our room. And it was actually pretty nice! We had a great view of the street and a beautiful old church. Starved we dropped our bags and wandered back through the square, uncomfortably ignoring the old men stares until we found a kebab shop at which we could order some food. At a little local market we then picked up breakfast snacks and were taught some basic French and Dutch phrases by the shop-owner before we turned in for the night.

Day 2 in Brussels started out with a very nice alumni interview in the main square. I met with Brad, a Muir student from 1984 who created his own major and now has a private law practice working with non-profits. Over a latte and espresso Brad shared his memories of the wooded campus and the not-so-central library. Then when I explained that we were going to find a spot to camp for the next few nights because other arrangements fell through he invited us to couch surf at his house! It was really great of him and a wonderful break for us!

We moved our bags into his place then gave Brussels another chance. This time we found the main square, a place of superb architecture and exquisite cuisine (well if you call frites and waffles cuisine ;). There we wandered the streets, took pictures, and then stopped to enjoy some of the fine Belgian food and drink.

And YUM it was so good. The waffles are like heaven, thick, richly golden colored and sweetened perfectly. But then you add butterscotch ice cream and I was, without a doubt, in food heaven. These waffles were Perfect, so so so very incredibly good. If you ever go to Brussels stop in at the "Australia" waffle place and get a scoop of ice cream. We did it at least twice each day.

Then there's Belgian beer. Another complete YUM! Remniscent of a wheat beer, Belgian beers descend from the monasteries of years past when Monks would spend their days between prayer and ensuring the hops were being brewed properly. Now in the states my friend Ben introduced me to my first Belgian beer (it immediately became my favorite) and anywhere I go for drinks I hope they have it. So to be in a place where that's all they serve-well it was fantastic! With so many days I got to try so so many different types and I must say that if you want a Belgian beer go with one by Delirium :)