Kascey Shvans

El Paso, TX

Belgium Travel Agent Specialist

In the autumn of 2015, I embarked on a magical trip to Belgium, a land renowned for its chocolate, beer, and picturesque medieval towns. Nestled in the heart of Europe, Belgium promised a journey through time, a culinary adventure, and a chance to revel in the warm hospitality of its people. This voyage was a passport to explore the wonders of this enchanting country.Chapter 1: Brussels - The Heart of Europe My journey commenced in the capital city of Brussels. The Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, left me breathless with its ornate architecture and opulent guildhalls. A visit to the Atomium, an iconic relic of the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, offered panoramic views of the city. Savoring decadent Belgian chocolates in the city that perfected them was a delicious start to my adventure.Chapter 2: The Allure of Bruges From Brussels, I traveled to Bruges, a fairy-tale town that seemed frozen in time. Cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and serene canals created an atmosphere straight out of a storybook. I explored the historic Markt square, climbed the Belfry tower for panoramic views, and indulged in delectable waffles while strolling along romantic canals.Chapter 3: Ghent's Artistic Flair Ghent, another medieval gem, captivated me with its rich history and vibrant arts scene. The Ghent Altarpiece in Saint Bavo's Cathedral was a masterpiece that mesmerized art enthusiasts. Ghent's vibrant street art and contemporary cultural spaces, like the STAM Museum, added a modern twist to its historical charm.Chapter 4: Antwerp - The Diamond Capital Antwerp, known as the diamond capital of the world, dazzled with its elegant architecture and vibrant fashion scene. A visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady, with its towering spire and artistic treasures, was awe-inspiring. I explored the Diamond District, learning about the city's diamond trade, and savored Belgian fries at local friteries.Chapter 5: Beer and Culinary Delights No trip to Belgium is complete without tasting its world-famous beer. I toured Trappist breweries like Westvleteren and sampled a variety of brews, from fruity lambics to rich, dark abbey ales. Belgian cuisine, including hearty stews like carbonnade flamande and crispy frites with an array of sauces, was a gastronomic delight.Chapter 6: Natural Beauty in the Ardennes Heading south to the Ardennes region, I found myself surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. Hiking through the Ardennes offered tranquility and breathtaking scenery. A visit to the charming town of Durbuy, known as the "smallest city in the world," added a touch of rustic charm to my journey.Conclusion: Belgium's Timeless Charms My trip to Belgium was a whimsical journey through a country that effortlessly blends history, culture, and culinary delights. As I bid farewell to this enchanting land, I carried with me memories of charming towns, decadent chocolates, and the warmth of the Belgian people. Belgium had left an indelible mark on my heart, a testament to its timeless allure and treasures waiting to be discovered.

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Holland Travel Agent Expert

I embarked on an immersive cultural vacation to Holland, a country known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture. My journey began in the enchanting city of Amsterdam.Amsterdam: Days 1-3My first stop was Amsterdam, a city where the past and present coexist harmoniously. I spent my days wandering along the iconic canals, admiring the elegant architecture that seemed to lean slightly forward, and exploring the cultural gems this city had to offer.Day 1: I started my adventure at the Rijksmuseum, home to thousands of Dutch masterpieces, including Rembrandt's "The Night Watch." The museum was a captivating introduction to Dutch art and history.Day 2: I couldn't miss the Anne Frank House, where the young Jewish girl and her family hid from the Nazis during World War II. It was a poignant reminder of the city's wartime history. In the afternoon, I took a leisurely canal cruise, gliding past picturesque bridges and traditional canal houses.Day 3: The Van Gogh Museum was on my list for its impressive collection of Vincent van Gogh's works. Afterward, I explored the vibrant neighborhoods of Jordaan and De Pijp, where I enjoyed delicious Dutch pancakes and mingled with locals.Delft: Day 4I ventured south to the charming town of Delft, famous for its distinctive blue-and-white ceramics. Walking through the cobbled streets and historic squares, I visited the Royal Delft Porcelain Factory, where skilled artisans demonstrated their craft. I couldn't resist bringing home a piece of Delftware as a souvenir.Kinderdijk: Day 5My next destination was the UNESCO-listed Kinderdijk, a serene landscape dotted with 19 traditional windmills. I rented a bicycle and pedaled along the scenic canals, marveling at the engineering prowess of these iconic structures. The windmills, set against a backdrop of lush green fields, were a testament to Dutch ingenuity in water management.Rotterdam: Days 6-7Rotterdam, a modern architectural wonder, was my next stop. The city's skyline was a fascinating blend of futuristic skyscrapers and innovative design.Day 6: I explored the Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) and the Erasmus Bridge, two architectural marvels. The Maritime Museum provided insights into Rotterdam's maritime heritage.Day 7: My visit to Rotterdam was incomplete without a stroll through the vibrant Witte de Withstraat, lined with trendy art galleries, bars, and restaurants. I savored Dutch cuisine and enjoyed the lively nightlife.Gouda: Day 8My journey continued to Gouda, a picturesque town famous for its cheese. I visited the Gouda Cheese Market, where farmers and cheese traders in traditional attire negotiated deals while a local band played folk music. I couldn't resist tasting various types of Gouda cheese, and I even purchased a wheel to savor the flavors back home.As my vacation came to a close, I reflected on the incredible experiences and memories I had gathered during my time in Holland. From the art and history of Amsterdam to the windmills of Kinderdijk, the modern architecture of Rotterdam, and the cheese of Gouda, each place had left an indelible mark on my cultural journey through this enchanting country. Holland had truly exceeded my expectations, and I returned home with a deeper appreciation for Dutch culture and heritage.

My Reviews

Great Weekend Away

Our “staycation” to Niagara Falls was nothing short of incredible. I definitely recommend Kascey to anyone looking to explore the area. She went above and beyond to make our trip a perfect weekend getaway. Thanks again!

By Denise from London, ON
Traveled to Niagara Falls ~ Ontario ~ Canada

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends