Crossing Borders: A Road Trip Through Belgium and Luxembourg

This journey began with a clear destination in mind: Switzerland. However, the allure of a spontaneous detour proved irresistible. The desire to experience the unique character of smaller nations led me to choose Belgium and Luxembourg, two countries easily accessible by car and conveniently located near my ultimate goal. With plans solidified, I embarked on a road trip across borders, ready to immerse myself in the distinct charm of each country.

Belgium and Luxembourg are two countries that belong to the Benelux group. They share a common border and are easily accessible by car, train, or even plane.

This trip began with a dance journey in Belgium, followed by a day trip to Luxembourg by car. I then returned to Belgium to board a flight to Switzerland before flying directly back to Thailand from Switzerland. I traveled with Thai Airways, the national airline, which recently received the World's Best Economy Class Airlines 2017 award from Skytrax. The route I traveled can be booked and selected as a Multi City option. The outbound flight is Bangkok – Brussels (Belgium), and the return flight is Zurich (Switzerland) – Bangkok. Link to book Thai Airways tickets –> www.thaiairways.com

After successfully booking your ticket and receiving a booking reference number, you can proceed to select your seat or choose a special seafood meal from the Manage My Booking section. This must be done at least 48 hours before your departure.

Here are the simple steps for Easy Check-in, as summarized by Thai Airways:
You can check in via your mobile phone, the Thai Airways website, or the self-service check-in kiosks.
All three methods will help you save time at the airport by avoiding long queues at the check-in counters.

Prepare your passport and all necessary documents, then join the queue to check in your luggage at Row H/J for International Economy. Alternatively, you can use the Self Check-in Bag Drop located in the same area to save time.

From Bangkok to Belgium (Brussels) on a Boeing 777-300 with a 3-4-3 Economy Class seating configuration.

Flights depart every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Flight time is approximately 12 hours, with a non-stop route.

In-flight entertainment includes headphones for watching movies and listening to music, a remote control, and a touch screen.

On long flights like this, two meals are provided, with a choice of three menus. My partner and I each ordered a different menu. For breakfast, we opted for light options like omelets.

Upon arrival at the airport in Belgium, I cleared immigration and collected my luggage. I then picked up the car I had booked in advance, a Volvo, ready to explore two countries.

Driving from Belgium to Luxembourg takes approximately 2.30 hours.
These two countries share an open border, allowing drivers to cross without the need for any vehicle stickers.
Only an international driving permit obtained in Thailand and the original driver's license are required.

Luxembourg

Luxembourg, a small landlocked country, shares borders with Belgium, Germany, and France.

The official currency is the euro, and the country boasts multilingualism, with English, French, and German widely spoken.

The route between Belgium and Luxembourg is characterized by lush greenery and abundant trees.

Parking options include both parking lots and street parking. The choice depends on the duration of your stay. Upon arrival, obtain a parking ticket from the machine and pay for the estimated parking time. Place the ticket on the dashboard. I once forgot to get a ticket and received a parking ticket upon my return.

Casemates du Bock: A Historic Fortress Overlooking Luxembourg City

The Casemates du Bock, an ancient fortress, offers stunning views of Luxembourg City. This historic site, a UNESCO World Heritage Center, represents the city's division between the upper and lower towns, symbolizing the old and new.

It is said that the wages in this country are very high, with drivers earning around 5,000 euros per month. I'm a little jealous. I might as well apply to be a driver here. ><
For those who don't drive or are worried about finding parking, Luxembourg also offers a green tram service. You can hop on and off at various points for 10 euros per person and enjoy the city views.

Still strolling around the ancient fortress,
As mentioned, this vantage point offers a panoramic view of Luxembourg City, revealing the city's distinct residential segregation.

A high-angle view of the city center reveals the Place de la Constitution, a war memorial that stands prominently in the square. The Gëlle Fra Memorial, a tribute to World War I, features a young woman atop its pillar.

Not far from the monument, you will find the largest and most famous church in Luxembourg, the Cathedrale Notre-Dame.

In the afternoon, tourists began to arrive, bustling with shopping and dining. Both sides of City Square Road, leading to the central square, were lined with shops, including both brand-name stores and general souvenir shops. During my visit, it coincided with the Easter festival, and each store was adorned with eggs and rabbits, which were very cute.

Place d'Armes, a small square used for various events, is surrounded by restaurants, including fast food options.

Concluding the leisurely stroll through Luxembourg City, the Palais Grand-Ducal, the Grand Ducal Palace, stands as a testament to the nation's history. Currently serving as the official workplace of the Grand Duke, the palace remains a vibrant symbol of the monarchy. In the absence of the royal family, vigilant guards patrol the grounds, ensuring its continued security.

A quick trip to Luxembourg for a taste of the city. I drove from Luxembourg to Brussels, Belgium, which took about 2.30 hours. I checked into the ibis Brussels off Grand Place, which is conveniently located in the heart of Brussels. The hotel is close to the train station, shops, and major attractions. You can park your car and walk around the city. However, the hotel does not have parking, so you will need to park in a public lot, which can be expensive.

Brussels
The capital of Belgium, which is important to the European Union (EU), is also the
location of the important organization NATO. Although it is a small capital city,
the unique beauty of this capital city
attracts tourists to explore it endlessly.

A short distance from the accommodation, there is a central tourist attraction, the Grand Palace, also known as the Grand Place de Bruxelles. Surrounded by beautiful old buildings with harmonious architecture, it is considered one of the most beautiful squares in the world. This square is the most important area for tourism and is also one of the main destinations in Belgium.

A short walk from the square, you'll find a large crowd of tourists lining up to take photos. This is Manneken Pis, a statue of a peeing boy that has become a symbol of a visit to Belgium. Let's take a brief look at the history of why this statue has become so famous...
"Legend has it that during a war in Brussels, the opposing side placed a bomb at the city wall. A young boy named Julien Skee found the burning fuse and urinated on it to extinguish it and save the city. The townspeople erected this statue to commemorate his bravery. The original statue was stolen several times and was eventually replaced by the current bronze statue designed by Jerome Duquesnoy." If you visit, don't forget to take a picture with this little hero statue! ^^

During my visit, which coincided with Easter, the city was adorned with Easter symbols such as egg and rabbit statues. Each store had its own unique and colorful Easter decorations.

Visiting Belgium without trying its waffles and hot chocolate is like not visiting at all. Every corner offers these treats, making it difficult to choose the best. To discover the true taste of Belgian waffles, embark on a delicious journey, sampling them from various shops. Prices range from 2 to 5 euros per waffle, depending on the toppings. Indulge in this delightful experience and savor the unique flavors.

Brussels offers a variety of attractions, including indoor shopping, souvenir shops, the Royal Palace of Brussels, and the Atomium, a suburban architectural landmark resembling a nine-atom molecule. However, due to time constraints, I was unable to visit these locations as I will be traveling to another nearby city tomorrow.

Before returning to my accommodation tonight, I took another look at the lights in Brussels Square.
At night, the square is beautifully lit, and tourists flock to take pictures.
It's a highlight of the evening that you shouldn't miss.

We checked out of our accommodation early in the morning to visit another nearby city, approximately 1.30 hours away by car. Those with more time could also stop by the city of Gent. As for me, I headed straight to the city of Brugge.

Bruges: A City of Canals and History

Bruges, the capital of West Flanders in Belgium, is a city steeped in history and charm. Situated in the northwest of the country, its historic center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts an egg-shaped layout and a network of picturesque canals, earning it the nickname "Venice of the North."

The Grand Market, a bustling central square teeming with tourists, is a must-visit. I found a parking spot in the city center at a public parking lot, which charges an hourly rate. However, the prices are not as exorbitant as in Brussels, and it's an easy walk to the central square. The square features a monument to Pieter De Coninck and Jan Breydel, Flemish figures who led the resistance against the Duke of Burgundy's occupation.

For panoramic city views, ascend the Belfry of Bruges, an 83-meter-tall bell tower offering stunning vistas. During the ascent, discover the tower's history and intriguing details. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with limited entry slots due to high demand. Visitors must wait for those descending before ascending, ensuring safety and crowd control within the historic structure.

To reach the panoramic views from the Belfort bell tower, visitors must ascend 366 narrow steps. The reward is a breathtaking vista of Bruges, often referred to as the Venice of the North. After capturing the cityscape in photographs, visitors can descend and explore the waterways below.

The Venice of the North, Bruges, is a city in northern Thailand known for its canals, which were used for transportation in the past. This earned Bruges the nickname "The Venice of the North." Bruges has historical significance as a former port city and played a crucial role in the development of Early Netherlandish painting. As a result, the architecture in Bruges bears a strong resemblance to that of the Netherlands.

If you visit Brugge, be sure to try the famous Blue Mussel, a baked mussel dish. This is a must-try dish, as it is the signature menu item at almost every restaurant in the city.

Full immersion in the city of Bruges: a 2-3 hour walking tour is all you need to see it all.

Alternatively, for those who wish to extend their experience, a scenic boat ride offers the ambiance of cruising through the "Venice of the North".

Alternatively, for those seeking a more luxurious shopping experience, Bruges offers a wide selection of brand-name stores catering to all types of tourists.

After a long drive from Bruges, I arrived at Brussels Airport, a journey that took approximately 1.30 hours. Avoiding the city center of Brussels, I returned the rental car at the airport and prepared for check-in. My next destination was Switzerland, the final stop of my trip.

As the plane soared across the country, fluffy white snow blanketed the mountaintops. The sight ignited a yearning to reach Switzerland, the dream destination and primary goal of this trip.

The Switzerland trip is briefly summarized in a video clip lasting just over a minute.
Switch to HD mode, plug in your headphones, and turn the volume up to the max.
Oh, and don't close your eyes, or you might miss something! ^^

Belgium and Luxembourg: Two Small Countries with Big Appeal

Belgium and Luxembourg, two small European nations, offer a wealth of experiences for travelers, whether they choose to linger for an extended stay or simply pass through. While their size may be modest, their charm and diversity are undeniable.

Belgium, renowned for its delectable chocolate and historic cities like Bruges and Ghent, also boasts a vibrant cultural scene and stunning natural landscapes. From the bustling streets of Brussels to the serene Ardennes forests, Belgium offers something for everyone.

Luxembourg, nestled between Belgium and Germany, is a hidden gem with a rich history and picturesque scenery. Its capital city, Luxembourg City, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the Moselle Valley offers breathtaking views and charming villages.

While a short visit can provide a taste of these countries' highlights, a longer stay allows for deeper exploration and immersion in their unique cultures. From sampling local delicacies to exploring hidden corners, Belgium and Luxembourg offer a rewarding experience for those who choose to delve deeper.

So, whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a multi-week adventure, consider adding Belgium and Luxembourg to your travel itinerary. You're sure to find yourself wanting to return for more.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask us via message or in the comments section of this review.

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Thank you all for following this review post to the end…Belgium-Luxembourg