General summary of city:

The city of Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and is a modern city that is rich in medieval and art-nouveau buildings. Brussels is steeped in rich history with plenty of museums and galleries and a pulsating cultural life.

Brussels is also the administrative center of the European Union, which has earned the city the title ‘the capital of Europe’. The business sector in Brussels is booming with international agencies taking root in the city, however not at the expense of the rich cultural history. The juxtaposition of past and present is evident in Brussels with blocks lined with international businesses and their advanced steel and glass high rises which are only a few steps away from cobbled streets and medieval architecture that speaks of the city’s flavourful past.

With a mixture of French and Flemish culture and language, Brussels is steeped in history and culture, with something for everyone to enjoy. The nightlife culture of Brussels, complete with clubs and pubs to enjoy add to the eclectic ambience of this fair city in Belgium. During the day, as business booms throughout the week, there is a wide variety of attractions for visitors and locals to enjoy, regardless of age. Families enjoy Belgium for its unique atmosphere which embraces every aspect of family life and socialization for adults.

Places of interest:

Brussels boasts over a century of history which lends too many intriguing sights to visit and see in the city and immediate area. Brussels possesses the most fabulous market square and the highest concentration of restaurants in the entire world.

The Petite Rue des Bouchers, which translates to street of the butchers is located in the medieval center of Brussels and is most famous for the simple fact that every building on the street is a restaurant. The roadway is very narrow and is closed to automobile traffic, which allows for the restaurants to boast their wares in spectacular fashion, while on wider parts of the road, restaurants feature outdoor eating areas.

The central market square in Brussels is known as the Grand’ Place, which is notably the most beautiful in the world. A 15th century Town Hall dominates the Grand’ Place with hundreds of small statues and an elegant tower is surrounded by 17th century buildings with golden inlays which surround the entire square. Other places of interest to visit is the Manneken Pis, the Saint Michael cathedral, the Atomium, the Palais de Justice as well as a plethora of parks including the impressive Bois de la Cambre and the forest to which it once belonged, the Foret de Soignes which features birch trees that are hundreds of years old.

Brussels features many interesting sights for the whole family – business people, families, nature lovers, culture devotees and historians alike.

Things to do:

There is a wide variety of things to do in Brussels, regardless of your age or fancies. For those who love to dine, you could spend an eternity sampling all the wonderful restaurants and eateries in Brussels, which boasts itself as having the highest concentration of restaurants in the world. The restaurants in Brussels feature a wide variety of food types and styles for anyone’s palate.

For those who want to take in the rich history of Brussels, there is a surplus of museums that boast the wonderful and flavourful richness of a millennium in Brussels.

Sightseeing is plentiful in Brussels with many 15th and 17th century buildings around the city. Declaring a beautiful surrounding with intricately designed buildings from these centuries, the city of Brussels promises a wonderful view in any direction. With beautiful boulevards, picturesque squares, parks and a very active cultural life in every sense of the word, there is something for everyone in Brussels. You can take in a movie or a play at a theatre, enjoy dinner in one of the many restaurants, and visit the monuments and places of great interest that abound in this beautiful city.

Brussels is steeped in over 1000 years of history and beauty for each individual to unfold whether visiting or moving to the city.

Food & Drink:

Brussels is all about the food. Because Brussels has the highest concentration of restaurants in all the world, the dining industry is literally one of the most prolific in the city. The Petite Rue des Bouchers (the street of butchers) is literally lined with restaurants. Every single building on the street is a restaurant that caters to a variety of flavours and tastes.
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General summary of city:

Bruges, Belgium, from the Norse word ‘Bryggja’ meaning “mooring place,” is one of the three regions and the capital of Flanders. Bruges has a population of over 100,000 and covers an area of approximately 138 km. This historic city, with its natural link to the sea, became a commercial center for European trade in early medieval times, as the harbor filled with ships carrying wool, grain, and wine. In a short while, the door opened for trade with countries on the Mediterranean Sea and the first fleet of ships arrived from Genoa, Italy. With the increase in international trade and the influx of capital, Bruges soon became an extremely wealthy city and a worldwide banking market. Over time, however, internal revolts between the prosperous tradesmen and the common people of Bruges led to the subsequent decline of the city as an important center for trade. As silt began to form and fill the waterway, Bruges was replaced as a major seaport by the more accessible city of Antwerp. After its separation from the Netherlands near the end of the medieval period, Bruges today is no longer known for its maritime prowess, but for its preservation as a provincial city with a wealth of culture and history.

Places of interest:

Bruges, often called the Venice of the North, is actually much further inland, amid different arms from the sea, waterways created by repeated flooding from the North Sea. After constant dredging, the Reie River was turned into a network of canals, the Water Halls of the Market. The Court of the Market (Grote Markt), the Castle, and the small towns of Damma and Suis are visited by tourists in Bruges on riverboats owned by five families. The Market has a belfry tower from which you have a spectacular view of the city and the Provincial Court, on the east side of the square where the original water halls existed, is a wonderful example of neo-Gothic architecture. The statues of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck, national heroes, are located In the middle of the market square. Within the museum adjacent to the Castle, The Shrine of the Sacred Blood houses the vessel that is carried in a procession every year on Ascension Day. The southern area of modern reconstructed medieval houses still reflects the original architecture of Bruges. In addition, there are several wonderful museums in the city such as the archaeological museum, with historical exhibits from the Stone Age and beyond. Another place of interest is the Groeninge Museum, which houses a magnificent collection of fine art, containing works by Flemish masters such as Van Eyck, Hugo van der Goes, Jacob van Oost, and the more recent expressionist masterpieces.

Things to do:

Walking through and around the ramparts that enclose this delightful, small city is one of the best ways to discover its charm. Carriages can be hired and scooters can be rented for an hour or a day of sightseeing, as well. Day trips by buses (fares are extremely reasonable) can be arranged to Sint-Trudo Abbey Male, former castle of the Counts of Flanders, and the Boudewijnpark and Dolphinarium, a theme park and panoramic aquarena. Take time for a stop at the Lace Center to watch the local artisans at work and the Antique and Flea Market where arts and crafts are featured. Exploring a bit further in the area around Bruges, you’ll enjoy the beaches at Zeebruge, a small seaside resort, and the quaint village of Lissewege located between the city and the coast. Zeebruge lies within 8 miles from Bruges, connected by a canal, and boat trips and visits to the exhibitions of the sea are popular things to do. There is no end to great shopping in Bruges, largely between the Market square and the old city gates. A number of small specialty shops are situated in the center such as De Kaarsengieterij, the oldest and only candle shop in Bruges. Here, you can find garden and interior candles, candle holders, and t-lights, or if staying in the city a while, take the opportunity to order hand-painted candles for gifts and special occasions.
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Introduction:

Bristol is an exciting city, overflowing with intriguing, traditional and occasionally off the wall things to do and see. What really makes it special is its energy, the mix of historic and new. With the city, coast and countryside all within easy reach Bristol is a great place to enjoy a day out or a weekend break. A vibrant young city, mixing bands and bars, clubs and cafes and yet this city has a thousand year history as a historic port!

Places of interest:

Bristol has some amazing sights, including the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol Cathedral and the SS Great Britain to name but a few. Many of Bristol’s museums depict parts of local history, including its maritime and industrial history.

Clifton Suspension Bridge spanning the beautiful Avon Gorge is the symbol of the city of Bristol. For almost 150 years this grade I listed structure has attracted visitors from all over the world. A Bristol wine merchant left a legacy to build the bridge over the Gorge.

Bristol Cathedral. The eastern end of the Cathedral, especially in the Choir, gives Bristol Cathedral a unique place in the development of British and European Architecture. The Nave, Choir and Aisles are all the same height, making a large hall. Bristol Cathedral is the major example of a ‘Hall Church’ in Great Britain and one of the finest anywhere in the world. Guided tours of the cathedral are available every Saturday from May to October.

Brunel’s steam ship, SS Great Britain, has survived from Victorian times and is the forerunner of all modern shipping. It was the world’s first iron-hulled, screw propeller-driven, steam-powered passenger liner.

Bristol Zoo Gardens is dedicated to conservation and is involved in international breeding programmes. Bristol Zoo has seen a number of significant births and there are many young animals running around the Zoo so it makes for a fun day out for all the family.

The British Empire and Commonwealth Museum brings to life more than 500 years of history using state of the art presentation techniques.

The City Museum and Art Gallery has outstanding collections of art and archaeology, geology and natural history housed in a magnificent early 20th century building on Queens Road.

Things to do:

If there’s one thing you can guarantee, you will never run out of things to do in Bristol. Attractions, shopping, nightlife and exciting activities combine to create a place quite unlike any other. Bristol is also the perfect base to explore the West Country. There are lots of attractions and places to visit all easily accessible by car or public transport.

A harbour tour is the best way to get some idea of what the harbour side area has to offer. Two companies offer such tours (some with commentary) allowing you to explore the harbour side from the water. It is not only a great way to see Bristol, but also travel from A to B.

Shopping in Bristol offers plenty of choice, catering for the most eclectic of tastes and all budgets. The elegant shops of Bristol’s West End, White Ladies Road and Clifton Village should not be missed. They are magnets for those looking for designer clothes, antiques, jewellery, art and crafts.

At-Bristol offers interactive adventure of a lifetime. At-Bristol’s has three award-winning attractions – Explore, Wildwalk and the Imax Theatre. They offer amazing experiences every day.

Slimbridge promotes the conservation of wetlands focusing on rare wetland birds. Millions of people have visited Slimbridge to get closer to wildlife & wetlands since it opened in 1946. You are able to get close to the birds, or just soak up the ambience of this haven by the Severn. The birds keep coming back too – tens of thousands wild birds drop by each year, some staying for months before starting out on their great migratory journeys.
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Introduction:

Nestling between the South Downs and England’s sunny south coast, Brighton is an enchanting, and exciting seaside city. With its mix of Regency heritage, specialist shopping, lively arts, beachfront fun and year round events the place defies comparison. Perfect for a break at any time of the year, Brighton is packed with everything within walking distance, and only an hour from London.

Places of interest:

Brighton has been a pleasure ground for visitors since Regency times, with a wealth of attractions full of charm, style and eccentricity. With the unique Royal Pavilion, the Victorian Brighton Pier, the Volks Railway and the various museums, Brighton’s attractions mix heritage, fun and culture, there is sure to be something that you want to see.

The Royal Pavilion is without doubt one of the most beautiful and unusual landmarks in the Brighton area. With striking Indian architecture, finely decorated interiors with strong influences from China, the Royal Pavilion was originally built for King George IV and has been used by many members of the royal family, including Queen Victoria.

The Victorian Pier is one of the most important landmarks in Brighton and is located in the centre of Brighton’s seafront. It is home to an enormous amount of attractions, including arcades, a funfair with a mini-roller coaster, and dodgems, side stalls, and a restaurant with stunning sea views. It is also the venue for seasonal fireworks displays.

The Lanes area of Brighton is full of fascinating Brighton history and character. With narrow streets, historic buildings, street entertainers, jewellery shops, antiques stores, cafés and restaurants, The Lanes area of Brighton is also home to a number of atmospheric public houses.

Volks Railway has regular trains travelling from Brighton Pier along Brighton seafront to Black Rock, and is one of Brighton’s most historic tourist attractions. Dating back to the late 19th century, Brighton’s Volks Railway is the oldest electric railway in the United Kingdom.

Brighton Marina is located in the Kemp Town area of Brighton and is home to an enormous amount of entertainment and attractions for tourists visiting the Brighton area. With cafés, restaurants and bars, most of which have superb views of the harbour, together with shopping facilities, boat trips around Brighton Marina, a multi-screen cinema and tenpin bowling complex, Brighton Marina is one of the largest yachting harbours in the United Kingdom.

Things to do:

Brighton beachfront is a playground of surfing, sailing, basketball, volleyball, skateboarding and lots more. Away from the water there is plenty to enjoy. Take a Ghost Walk or tour of The Lanes, and all year round there are hundreds of events from the famous London to Brighton and National Speed Trials, to power boat racing and kite festivals. Brighton provides an excellent base for exploring the rolling South Downs and the castles of Hever, Leeds and Arundel.

Brighton Racecourse holds meetings throughout the summer months.

Walking Tours are available in the Brighton and Hove area and these provide tourists with a real insight into some of Brighton’s most interesting and historic tourist attractions, landmarks and information.

Brighton guided bus tours operate throughout the day at regular intervals. The Brighton bus tours provide a popular way of sightseeing in Brighton and, with daily hop on / off tickets; they are also a very useful way to travel around Brighton. Bus tours in the Brighton connect all of the major points of interest in Brighton, including many of the tourist attractions, landmarks and monuments in Brighton.

Devil’s Dyke, on the north side of Brighton, is owned and managed by the National Trust, with superb panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, Devil’s Dyke is a deep valley and attractions include large areas of grassland ideal for sunbathing, sports, kite-flying, hang-gliding and picnics.

Bluebell Steam Railway is on the outskirts of Brighton. It is one of the most popular attractions in this area. It features lovingly restored steam locomotives, a museum, stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a public house, serving snacks. The Bluebell Steam Railway travels between three different train stations.
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If you’re a hotelier or the owner of a bed and breakfast, you undoubtedly want your guests to feel warm and welcome. As you already know, the small touches can leave a lasting impression on your guests. What you may not know is that art – particularly contemporary fine art – can play a significant role in conveying your desired message to your patrons.

As an independent hotelier or B&B owner, you’ve probably given much thought to the facade of your establishment, the layout of the lobby, and even the uniforms that your staff wear. You may not have considered the ways in which art can help reinforce your “brand” – what your guests come to associate with your establishment.

Original watercolors, for example, can reinforce feelings of relaxation and rejuvenation among guests who stay in properties located in vacation destinations. The tropical watercolor of a parrot in colorful plumage or a flowering peach hibiscus will bring smiles to the faces of your guests. For the historical establishment, acrylic paintings depicting local history will reinforce the feeling that your hotel or B&B is associated with a particular location or place in time.
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