Why Belgium? … Wow!
This simple question, often accompanied by puzzled expressions and raised eyebrows, encapsulates the typical reaction from friends when we share our travel plans. It’s a query that lingers in the air, tinged with curiosity and surprise, as they are baffled by our seemingly unconventional choice of destination.
But behind such a question lies a story waiting to be told – an adventure brimming with history, culture, and unexpected connections. Let’s unravel why Belgium is more than just a dot on the map; it’s the start of an extraordinary journey.
Portal to the Past
As a writer, I’ve begun compiling notes about Belgium, preparing to make a pitch for our destination in a telling manner. For history enthusiasts, Belgium is a portal to the past, with its medieval cities, cobblestone streets, and ancient architecture narrating tales of a rich heritage. Food lovers delight in Belgium’s world-renowned cuisine, especially the exquisite chocolates crafted by master chocolatiers over generations. Art aficionados find a haven in the masterpieces of Flemish painters like Rubens and Bruegel.
Despite these compelling descriptions, my friends’ puzzled looks persist. Belgium, it seems, is often overshadowed by more prominent tourist destinations. The USA boasts endless possibilities, from New York’s bustling streets to the Grand Canyon’s serene landscapes. Recently bolstered by its Olympic fame, France enchants with the romantic charm of Paris and the vineyards of Bordeaux. Italy tempts with the art-filled streets of Florence and the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, while Australia offers pristine beaches, unique wildlife, and vibrant cities.
Moreover, Belgium can be quite expensive. According to World Population Review living costs in Belgium are 2.5 times higher than in the Philippines. As fellow SSS pensioners, the “Why Belgium?” question hits home; frankly, we cannot afford such a pricey trip by depleting our life savings.
Invited Guests
The full story lies in the ellipsis of the opening sentence. Invited and hosted by Belgian citizen Mario Haesaert, my wife and I will visit Belgium not as tourists, but as guests with visitor visas. Belgium’s complex bureaucracy is so rigorous that it deters tourists due to stringent visa application processes. Mario, however, went above and beyond, providing a signed invitation letter detailing our relationship, the purpose of our visit, the duration of our stay, and his address; proof of his legal status; evidence of our accommodation at his residence; and proof of his financial support, including bank pension statements.
The highlight that elicits a genuine “Wow!” from our friends: Mario sent us money for our round-trip tickets. This generous act stunned us, as we couldn’t fathom why we deserved such kindness. Mario’s common-law spouse, Angga, had been our children’s nanny before moving to Belgium, but such a past relationship seemed insufficient to warrant such generosity. I looked out for the construction of their Philippine house while they were in Belgium, but it was a routine task.
As we reminisced about our friendship, one memory stood out: Mario’s earnest declaration, “Raymond, you have to visit our country to understand its beauty.” At the time, his words struck me as a heartfelt yet universal expression of patriotism, common among those who cherish their homeland. It seemed too general to spark such a profound act of generosity. However, reflecting on it now, I realize that Mario’s invitation was more than just national pride. It was a genuine desire to share the rich tapestry of Belgium’s culture and history with us, underscoring the depth of our bond and his remarkable altruism.
God's Mysterious Way
As a Catholic, I believe God works in mysterious ways, using unexpected people like Mario to bless those who love Him. “He doesn’t have religion,” Angga said of Mario, “but he is a kind person.” She recounted an instance when Mario took over for an elderly tricycle driver struggling on an uphill road, illustrating his compassion.
As we finalize our plans to visit Belgium, our message often ends with, “God bless our plan!” I don’t know how this sentiment has deeply affected Mario, but I am certain of one thing: God smiles upon us.
I hope Mario and Angga will allow me to chronicle their love story during our stay in Belgium, as I know it is brimming with fascinating twists and dramatic turns.
Writing 282 ATABAY articles have allowed me to explore myriad topics, from personal experiences to political commentaries. I still recall my daughter Jan’s tongue-in-cheek suggestion that I delve into the gossipy and intriguing world of showbiz, a genre I admittedly feel ill-equipped to tackle.
Travelogue
Our journey to Belgium presents me with the exciting opportunity to venture into a new and uncharted territory: travel writing. This genre will fuel my passion for writing as I capture the essence of new landscapes, cultures, and experiences. The prospect of crafting a travelogue excites me, offering a canvas to paint vivid pictures with words, share insightful observations, and inspire wanderlust in my readers. Through this new endeavor, I aim to bring the beauty and uniqueness of Belgium to life, intertwining my narrative with the rich tapestry of its history, art, and culinary delights.
Still on Philippine soil as I pen these words, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Roselle and Kim of Fiesta Tours and Travel for expertly handling our travel arrangements. I also appreciate Turkish and Philippine Air Lines, our international and domestic travel carriers respectively, for ensuring a smooth journey.
To my dedicated readers of ATABAY, I owe a profound thank you. You are the bedrock of my writing journey. As we embark on this Belgian adventure, I am excited to share new stories and experiences with you. Your encouragement keeps my creative juices flowing, and I look forward to bringing you along on this next chapter.
Together, let’s explore the wonders of Belgium, celebrating the unexpected joys and connections that life has in store for us.
God bless our plan and the journey ahead!
Content put together in collaboration with ChatGPT
Head collage photos courtesy of Mario Haesaert
No comments:
Post a Comment