Friday, 25 October 2024

Escape to Olomouc

It is always a good idea to go somewhere for a weekend, especially if there is a direct train connection with Prague. For this time I travel to Olomouc. And honestly, I do not have any plan, what to do there, but maybe I just wanted to check the train company Leo Express, cause usually I travel with Cesky Drahy.

Olomouc is the 6st largest city in Czechia, and it has around 100000 inhabitants. It lies in the heart of Moravia and in the past it was its capital.



One of the most beautiful and the most needed to visit monuments in Olomouc is the Saint Wenceslas Cathedral. Founded in 1107, nowadays it has the gothic style.



The next necessary thing to do in the city is of course tasting local delicatessen, called Olomoucke Tvaruzky. Indeed, its very salty, very smelly, but with very unique taste cheese. It contains lots of protein, but usually goes well with beer. Honestly, I am not going to miss this food, but next visit I will eat it again.


Of course there are much more places and things to explore in the city, including the iconic Holy Trinity Column, the Astronomical Clock and even the beautiful Botanical Gardens, and the good thing is that all of them are located close to each other. Very compact and comfy.


I need to say, that am in love with cobblestone streets in Olomouc. But most of all I appreciate the quietness here. So, this silent, cozy city is an ideal destination if you are tired of the hustle in the megapolis. Definitely, I would come here again to enjoy solitude and unhurried walking.




Sunday, 13 October 2024

Brussels, The Sights


The day with visiting the main sights in Brussels, which you cannot miss in any case.

First, The Atomium, a striking structure that was originally built for the 1958 Brussels World ExpoIn fact, it is a representation of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. It consists of nine stainless steel spheres, connected by tubes, which together form a model of an atom. Nice one.



Second, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium, with significant collection of Old Masters from the 15th to the 18th centuries. Peter Paul Rubens, Antoine Van Dyck, Jan Bruegel the Elder, Rogier van der Weyden, Jerome Bosch and Frans Hals.



Third, a quirky bar Goupil, located in the heart of the city. The vibrant atmosphere and eclectic decor. It is not just a place to grab a drink but also a space for socializing, whether you're looking to chat with friends or enjoy a casual night out.



It was the very eventful, diverse and interesting trip just during two days. To summarize, I would love to visit Brussels again and again. You definitely will not be bored here.




Saturday, 12 October 2024

Brussels, The Capital


Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the administrative heart of the European Union. Finally, I could make plans to visit this incredible city with diverse culture and famous landmarks.

The hotel is located right in the city centre, so after check-in I immediately went out to see what is going on in the city.



I was so happy to find myself in such a beautiful location, so I even started dancing on the floor. But unfortunately, I was hungry and not able to continue it any longer.


Here are the famous Belgium French fries. It is cooked from the fresh potatoes and tastes very delicious. The large portion is good enough to wait for the main dish at the evening.


The main square of Brussels, known as Grand Place, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. It has been the city's central market and gathering place since the 12th century and is surrounded by opulent buildings that reflect Brussels' rich history, including the Town Hall and the King's House.
A distinctive feature of the architectural design here are the golden decorations on the buildings. They are symbolizing wealth and prestige and often representing the trade or craft of the guilds that once operated there.



And of course a little statue of a pissing boy "The Manneken Pis", made of bronze, 61cm tall. Interestingly, over the years, the statue has been dressed in a wide variety of costumes, often reflecting Belgian culture, holidays, and events. And today it was the costume of a graduate.


The dinner was at the traditional restaurant. The unlimited ribs. The most tasty is the first portion, and I was almost full after finishing it. So, the next two portions were not necessary, but you know, money were paid.



At the end of the day I have had my favourite Belgium beer, Orval, which is one of the best Trappist beers in the world. It is a kind of Pale Ale, known for its complex flavors that include a balance of bitterness and fruitiness, with a distinctive earthy taste. Remarkably, the beer undergoes a secondary fermentation in the bottle. Recommend it! Still, if you do not like it at first time, give it another chance later. 


Brussels is an amazing city with good vibe. I am sure, tomorrow will be another positive experience and another pleasant emotions.