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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BeNeLux Travel Agent Expert

In 2015, I had the pleasure of experiencing the “BeNeLux” countries through the eyes of locals. I started in The Hague, the political capital of the Netherlands. The city exudes grandeur with its historic government buildings and opulent palaces. My first stop was the Binnenhof, the Dutch Parliament complex, where I marveled at the impressive architecture. Later, I enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the Scheveningen Pier. A short train ride brought me to Leiden, a charming university town known for its picturesque canals and rich history. Leiden was the birthplace of Rembrandt, and I explored his life and art at the Rembrandt House Museum. The botanical gardens and Leiden's medieval streets added to the city's allure. Utrecht, with its historic city center and bustling canals, was my next destination. I climbed the Dom Tower for panoramic views of the city. The Central Museum and Rietveld Schröder House offered insights into Dutch design and art. A leisurely canal cruise allowed me to appreciate Utrecht's unique charm from the water. I dined at a local café along Oudegracht, savoring Dutch cuisine.From the Netherlands, I made my way to Luxembourg, a country known for its medieval castles and lush landscapes. Luxembourg City's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was a captivating mix of medieval and modern. I explored the casemates, an underground network of tunnels and chambers used for centuries in defense. The Grand Ducal Palace and the Place d'Armes offered a glimpse of the city's history and elegance. A short drive took me to Vianden, a fairytale town dominated by a stunning medieval castle. I explored Vianden Castle, perched high on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the town and the lush Ardennes countryside. The castle's history and architecture were truly enchanting. Next it was off to pay my respects at the Luxembourg American Cemetery, the resting place of over 5000 soldiers who perished during The Battle of the Bulge. The final leg of my journey took me to Belgium, a country celebrated for it’s art, history, and chocolates. Bruges, a picturesque medieval city, greeted me with cobbled streets and canals. A walking tour led me to the Markt, where the iconic Belfry towered over the square. I also visited the Groeningemuseum, housing an impressive collection of Flemish art. My visit to Bruges was incomplete without exploring Minnewater Lake and its swans. The serene beauty of this spot made it a perfect place for contemplation. As I boarded my flight back home, I carried with me cherished memories of my cultural journey through Holland, Luxembourg, and Belgium. These three countries had offered me a kaleidoscope of history, art, and local experiences, making it a trip I would treasure forever.

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