Belgium Vs Republic of Ireland

My European romance stems from films and books. As an ardent lover of all things historical, Europe sends a certain sense of charm to my senses. I continually find myself wishing for a Portkey to magically transport me to a sunny field somewhere in the middle of Europe.

Belgium and the Republic of Ireland are both countries with an intrinsic culture, but also have an eclectic mix of people from around the world, other cultures, invasions and colonisations. Belgium, following the World War I, turned into a living relic of history, enjoyable for travellers who like spending their holidays amidst history. The Republic of Ireland is what you would expect from the beautiful countryside – cliffs, rocks, beaches and fields for as far as your eyes can see. Another thing that both countries have in common? They take their pubs seriously. Whichever country you decide to visit, we promise you won’t regret it!

Belgium

Belgium is so much more than waffles and chocolate! Slightly more rugged, and a lot more liquid (I mean the beer, silly), Belgium is on too many traveller maps to not pay attention to! The country boasts of beautiful museums, arcades, quaint coffee shops, lively pubs and a vibrant music and cultural scene. Here are the cities that make Belgium a must visit!

Bruges:

If you like museums, theatres and cobblestone avenues, and were asked to build a city of your own, the result would probably look something like Bruges! This medieval city is home to the lovely market-centre, prosaically named Markt, a number of museums with rich collections (the Museum St-Janshospitaal and Groeningemuseum, to name a few) and the beautiful clock tower in the middle of the city centre. Bruges exudes a sense of quiet, quaint charm that so often seems to be missing from the modern cities of the world. If you’re a hitman stuck “In Bruges” to kill your partner, it’ll give you an experience to remember! (Two candies to whoever got that reference) :D

Antwerp:

Like it happens with Europe and art, Antwerp is a beautiful city that bridges the gap between the old and the new. From clubs to museums, from castles to drinking holes amidst beautifully cobbled streets, Antwerp boasts of a bustling music and cultural scene. What’s more, the city is ideal for lovers of art and history too. Places to watch out for include the Museum Plantin-Moretus, Antwerpen Centraal and the Rockoxhuis.

Ireland

The land where a pint of Guinness and constant rain dominates the way of life, Ireland is a culture in itself. Ireland is growing increasingly popular with students these days because of its bustling lifestyle. This European beauty first caught my eye through novels years ago and the fascination has remained with me ever since. What would I not give to live a life where I could sip a cup of coffee while stuffing myself with a lavish Irish breakfast on Grafton Street on a bright sunny morning in Dublin!

Cork City:

Cork to Ireland is what Jaisalmer is to India; a reminder of days gone by, a study of history! It has forts and castles aplenty, and if you’ve got your hiking shoes on, Cork lies on the beautiful south-western countryside of Ireland. Cork City is full of artistic cafes and sunny promenades. Some places you must explore on your trip are the English Market, St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery.

Galway:

Looking for a place to sweep your lady love off her pretty feet? Look no further! If she’s a fan of nature, the countryside, lighthouses, seashores and menacing waves, chances are she’ll take you in with open arms at this little bit of paradise. I haven’t been able to get Gerard Butler walking Hilary Swank through a field of flowers in Galway in P.S I Love You out of my head, and you could recreate that! *swoons and dies happy*

Bonus: Cliffs of Moher!

Located in County Clare in the Republic of Ireland, this Irish wonder has been talked about and shot in movies for the longest time. The cliffs of Moher rise almost vertically from the Atlantic Ocean, and go up to a maximum height of 702 feet! Humongous, right? It is not without reason that the Cliffs of Moher are among the most visited tourist places in Ireland, receiving more than a million visitors yearly.

Destination	Bruges, Belgium	Republic of Ireland
Hotels (centrally located)	Start at Rs. 5100* per night (Standard room at Floris Karos Hotel Bruges) At Rs 5369* per night at Martin's Hotel, Bruges	Start at Rs, 5800* per night (Standard Room at Carlton Hotel, Kinsale) Rs 7181* per night at Ashley Hotel, Cork
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 4400* per day	Rs. 3500* per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	You can rent bicycles to move around in the cities of Bruges and Antwerp. Bus rides will cost Rs. 112* per ticket (Approx.)	Rs. 161* per ticket (Approx.)
Miscellaneous	Rs. 4500* per day	Rs. 4000* per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.

Book your flights to Ireland and Belgium without any hassle!

Belgium and Ireland are both delightful places to spend your European vacation. Both countries have a great cultural association with old architecture and friendly locals, and of course, some lovely sights and sounds. Choosing one or the other is just a coin flip away!