Brussels in February???
 

I would like to visit my daughter who will be studying abroad in Brussels at Vesalius College (a part of the Free University of Brussels) during her spring semester 2004. Unfortunately the best travel time for me because of work is the middle of February for about 10 days. I am concerned that it will be cold and dreary then and some things might be closed. I am looking for comments on whether this trip would be worthwhile (I've never been to Europe) as well as where to stay near the University and what I should see and do. I'm also interested in side trips I might take while there. Suggestions??

Nannyvee;

It it hard to really answer your questions since I am not sure what you are interested in seeing, budget, and where you have already been in Europe. First, yes it will probably be dreary and cold, but should that stop you from visiting Europe? Never!Heaters and Hot chocolate works wonders. If it were me, I would do some sightseeing in Brussels, take a one day trip to Brugge and either spend a weekend in Paris or catch the Euro to London for sightseeing, tea and the theater. Both Paris and London are aprox. 2 hrs by train/Eurostar.

It will most likely be rainy and cold, but don't let that stop you. As someone else said, visit Bruges one day. I'd also recommend visiting Antwerp ( a short 30 minute train ride)and Paris, for an overnight - the Thalys train takes only 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Enjoy the museums of Brussels, and if you like antiques, there is an antique market at the Sablon every weekend. If you like Art Nouveau, visit Victor Horta's home on the rue Americaine, and visit the comic book museum (housed in a superb Horta building).

I hope your daughter enjoys her semester at Vesalius - my daughter went to school there in the late 80s (we lived there)

Patricia

Certainly go in February; even if its cold, there are plenty of nice cafes in Brussels where you can warm up with hot chocolate. Do keep in mind that the week of Monday 23rd of February all schools are closed for a holiday (this is when most Belgians go skiing).

Our experience has been that the worst weather in Brussels actually comes in November--the month of sudden cold rains and wind, sleet, etc. By Feb., things have more or less "settled down" and you have some sunny days. Gray and coldish (not absolutely frigid) and aside from the holiday Tulips mentioned, everything will be open. Many cafes have fireplaces, so you can warm up there.
Definitely go to Brugge for at least a day--you won't encounter many tourists at the time of year, especially on a week-day (the canal boats won't be running, understandably). I'm not an Antwerp fan but many people enjoy it.
Other side trips include Leuven, Delft (Netherlands) and even Paris.
On Sunday, combine the antiques at the Sablon with shopping along the nearby Rue Haute (one of the few places in Brussels where shops are open on Sundays).
In the near suburbs, La Hulpe is a pretty little town with a chateau (modeled after a Loire Valley chateau; you can't go in [usually], but it has hundreds of acres of park grounds, a cafe and a museum for the artist Folon), the next town out on the train line is Genval (about 30 minutes by train from the Central Station in Brussels), which has a nice lake and a terrific restaurant, Genval les Bains, in the luxury hotel along the lake. If you go by train, go first class in the local train--it's like a trip back in time, riding in self-striped velvet banquettes.
BTilke (Brussels)

Thanks for all the information.. Actually we would be in Belgium from about Feb.12 to the 21st. Now I'm excited to go. Any suggestions where to stay near Vesalius College in Brussels? We're on a moderate budget- high end $100.00 a night- lower is better!!

How would you feel about renting an apartment for a week instead of a staying in a hotel. Brussels abounds with "flathotels", that is, short term furnished apartments. You can get one for as little as $300 a week. You won't have maid service every day, probably just once (the maid service is usually mid-week, where they change bedding and towels). But you'll have some room to spread out, a kitchenette (usually a small fridge, two burners, and a microwave), etc. I can suggest some of the less expensive flathotels if you're interested. Most are in the EU area.

We were in Paris last February and took a day trip to Brussels. It was cold, sunny and windy. We still enjoyed ourselves, however. I would definitely recommend a side trip to Paris. It is only 90 minutes by TGV train.

I was in Brussels in December and they have outdoor heaters at the cafes so you can still dine outside as if it were springtime.

THere are also small museums (the chocolate museum) and large ones (fine arts) that are well worth a visit.

Hadn't checked the message board in a few days due to a death in the family. Our travel plans may have to change to late April for various reasons, but the weather should be better and we have decided to splurge a bit on accomodations since I've never been to Europe. BTilke, your suggestion of a flat in interesting and definitely worth looking into. If we chose to "hotel" it, how far in advance should we make reservations? Also, what are the chances of finding rooms spur of the moment in other cities if we take side trips?

Definately go to Paris. I would spend at least three days there with your daughter. Bring your warmest clothes even if you go in april. It's always cold there. Be sure to eat a Begium Waffle with whip cream and strawberries. Have fun and good luck with your daughters studies. It's a great experience.

I'm surprised nobody has recommended Amsterdan as a side trip. In April, the Keukenhof Gardens are open and the fields will be in full blossom. An early train from Brussels, an overnight and a late train back would give time for a good overview of Amsterdam.