Hi folks. I'm an American living in E. Eur. and just found out that I have to go to Brussels for 2 days of work meetings. Unfortunately, i have no access to Rick Steves' books, so I'm adrift -- and therefore calling on his loyal readers to see if anyone can share some back door tips. [Full disclosure: i also posted a version of this question at the LP thorn tree forum too -- i'm trying to cast a wide net for suggestions ;o) ]
I'll be in Brussels on a Tues % Wed for mtgs which will keep me busy from 10am to 4pm, but, since I have never been there, I'm hoping I can get some suggestions here of something I can do to at least get a feel for the city. The places I have to be for work all seem to be between metro stops Rogier, & Madou, if that helps.
-- Can anyone recommend a guided tour (bus or walking) that would start early enough for me to take in before my meetings?
-- I've read about the flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle, and I'm the kind of person who thinks it would be fun to be able to commemorate my travels with a funky /silly/cool trinket I picked up at a flea market in Brussels. ;o) Can anyone tell me, what days/hours is it open?
-- I'd rather eat at a street stand or someplace where you can get a quick bite, rather than have a real "sit down" meal. I plan to get some frites for sure (no mussels for me though), but I'd love to hear if anyone's got a favorite place to suggest. (Falafel, pizza, gyros, sandwiches, anything like that would be fine.)
-- I'd also be happy to just stroll around a neighborhood on my own. I love looking at interesting buildings/architecture, window shopping and/or people watching in funky districts, and chilling in nice parks. Any suggestions??
Sorry for such a long post, but I figured giving some more info on where i'll be and what kind of stuff I find interesting might help people give me some suggestions. :o)
Thanks in advance for any suggestions!!