Brussels Day 2

Brussels Day 2

So we got up around 8ish on Wednesday for our final full day in Brussels. First we had our free breakfast. It was nothing special and it was free food so we were happy. They also have little things of Nutella like we would have of peanut butter. I liked that a lot. I think we should have those in the States. We took the shuttle to the airport and then from the airport took the bus back into the city. After exploring a bit we found this beautiful park. I found it rather amusing that there were signs that specifically said “No jogging” yet I saw probably about ten joggers. Also, if you are ever planning a trip to Brussels, go in the summer. This park is beautiful in the winter but honestly it would have been stunning in the summer. 

When we were done exploring the park we headed over to the Museum of Musical instrument (mind you all along the way we are taking pictures and looking at everything). We especially wanted to go to the museum because there was a free concert that day. So we go in and sit down in the concert hall. I look over to my right and I see a guy walk in and as I am looking at him I realize that I know this guy! That’s right people, I managed to run into the only person in Belgium who knows me. I stare at him a little longer to make sure it was actually him but eventually he recognized me so I smiled and waved. This guy was in my class when I was in level 2 at my institute in France. Crazy right? Afterwards all he said to me was “You just can’t get away from school can you?”

So anyway back to this concert. The pianist was stellar! I have no idea how she moved her fingers so fast! And she played with so much expression; it was like an actor performing. Here is a YouTube video of someone playing the same song she did.  (watch the beginning and then from 5 minutes in). There was also a bass violinist who performed with her on some of the songs but the whole time I could only think about how much I prefer the plain-old cello. 

We then walked around the museum and I saw so many instruments that I didn't even know existed!! I took so many pictures but I won't bore you with all of them! Just a few of the strangest instruments I encountered. I honestly have no idea how these are played!

And here is video of me attempting to read Dutch...I think I'm a natural!

After the museum we were starving!!! We spent a lot of time in there looking around at all the instruments! So we decided "When in Belgium...HAVE WAFFLES!!!" So we went to a waffle van around the corner from the museum.

We then went to buy some Belgian chocolate and see the famous Mekken Pisse (I don't think I spelled that right) On the way we encountered a street band. They got rather mad at us when we watched them (for all of thirty seconds) and then didn't give them a tip. Oh well...

Mekken Piss turned out to be a disappointment since it was covered in this stupid costume! But I guess I can at least say that I attempted to see it...

I know I am super far behind in updating you all about my life. I have been so very very busy! But even more happy!!! So much to tell you! Hopefully this weekend I will be able to catch you all up!