Neeraj and His Wife’s Tale of Love and Discovery in Belgium with Thrillophilia
Belgium was just another tick on Neeraj Dhaka and his wife’s travel bucket list. It was the fulfilment of a shared dream - a romantic escape into history, art, and indulgence. His wife, with her love for cobblestone streets and tall cathedrals, had longed for this journey. And Neeraj, always the quiet planner, had made it happen.
As their flight touched down in Brussels, his wife’s excitement was infectious. “Can you believe it?” she whispered, her eyes wide with wonder as the plane moved to the terminal. Neeraj smiled. “It is real, dear. Welcome to your dream.”
The Timeless Charm of Brussels
Their first day in Brussels unfolded gently, like the soft drizzle that greeted them as they arrived at their boutique hotel near the heart of the city. The rain-soaked streets seemed to glisten with stories of centuries past. After a brief rest, Neeraj’s wife insisted they head to the Grand Place.
When they reached the square, they found the intricate guild halls and the imposing Town Hall to be breathtaking. His wife twirled in the middle of the cobblestone plaza, and her laughter was ringing out. “It feels like I have stepped into a painting,” she said, her face lit up like a child discovering a hidden treasure.
Neeraj was the romantic one, who teased her with, “Shall I serenade you, or is the Grand Place doing it already?” Kavya smiled, linking her arm through his as they wandered past the luxurious facades.
That evening, over a dinner of steaming mussels and crispy fries, his wife sighed contentedly. “Day one, and I am already in love with this place.”
Art, Culture, and Chocolate Dreams
The next day was a whirlwind of art and culture as they went on a sightseeing tour armed with their Brussels city card. The Tootbus ride gave them glimpses of the architectural beauty of the city, but it was the museums that truly captivated them.
At the Horta Museum, his wife marvelled at the twisted Art Nouveau designs. “It looks like a dream where even walls have poetry,” she thought aloud, running her fingers along the carved woodwork. Neeraj laughed and snapped a candid photo of her fascination.
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts left them both awestruck. Neeraj found himself lingering before a Rubens masterpiece as his eyes traced the bold strokes and vivid colours. “It is amazing how art can speak across centuries,” he said in a respectful voice. Standing beside him, his wife whispered, “These paintings hold the emotions of another time.”
The day’s indulgence reached its peak at Choco-Story, where his wife’s sweet tooth found its match. Watching chocolatiers craft pralines was mesmerising. She declared her creation - an intricately moulded dark chocolate piece - a masterpiece. Neeraj took a bite and smiled. “You have found your true calling!”
Of Monuments, Miniatures, and Belgian Beer
The third day began with a visit to the Atomium, which is one of the iconic structures of Belgium. Standing beneath its massive spheres, his wife exclaimed, “Look how science and art came together to create something so extraordinary!” The panoramic view from the top offered a stunning perspective of Brussels.
Mini Europe was next, and it brought out their playful sides. His wife moved from one miniature landmark to the next to admire the craftsmanship. “Neeraj, look! It is the Colosseum—tiny, but perfect!” she called out, waving him over.
Beer World added a distinct flavour to their day. Neeraj found himself sampling an array of Belgian brews. “This one tastes like caramel, and this one has hints of citrus,” he said, trying to sound like an expert. His wife laughed. “Don’t get too carried away, Mr. Connoisseur.”
As the day wound down, they returned to their hotel with bags of chocolates and memories that would last a lifetime.
A Day Trip to Antwerp
Their journey took them to Antwerp the following day. With its tall spire and stunning interior, The Cathedral of Our Lady left them both speechless. Standing before a Rubens painting, his wife whispered, “How can something so still hold so much emotion?”
The diamond district added a sparkle to their day - literally. Browsing the glittering displays, his wife’s eyes lit up like the jewels before her. “They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” Neeraj teased, “but you already have me!” She laughed, replying, “You are right. No diamond can match your charm.”
They ended their day with a quiet walk along the Scheldt River. The soft lapping of water and the golden hues of sunset created a perfect backdrop for reflection. “Every moment here feels like a gift,” she said, leaning on Neeraj’s shoulder.
A Medieval Fairytale Came Alive in Ghent
Ghent was their final full-day adventure, and it felt like stepping into a medieval storybook. Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and its awe-inspiring architecture were a highlight. Although climbing the Belfry of Ghent was a challenge, the view at the top was worth every step.
As they wandered along Ghent’s canals, lined with historic buildings and illuminated by soft lights, his wife sighed. “This place feels like a dream I never want to wake up from.”
Over dinner by the canal, Neeraj raised a toast. “To us, and to the memories we have created here.” She clinked her glass against his, and her smile glowed in the candlelight.
Read more: Thrillophilia Belgium Reviews