32nd Birthday Trip

For my 32nd year, I decided I needed to explore more of Europe.  Luckily I have a friend who lives in Belgium and he made this trip unforgettable!  First stop was London.  I spent the afternoon exploring London on my own but it wasn't enough time so another trip will happen to London and the rest of England in the future.  I did see the Tower Bridge, the river Thames and rode the London Eye.  I also walked across the bridge to see Big Ben then over to one of London's famous Squares.  I got a couple souvenirs and tons of photos then headed to the train station.

I took the Eurostar from London to Brussels where I met up with my friend, Hans.  The first city we went to was Ghent, Belgium.  Such a charming city, I really enjoyed it.  We explored a castle, did a cruise along the canal and found a hidden bar.  Then we headed off to The Netherlands.  We stopped at this beautiful windmill village that was quite the treat.  Then off to Amsterdam.  We spent a couple nights here and I just loved it!  We got to enjoy a gay pride parade, walked around the city center, took an edible and saw a museum all while trying not to get hit by a bike.  Next stop was Dusseldorf Germany.  This was probably my least favorite of the trip and the bad weather didn't help.  But we did walk around town and along the river.  Then we drove back to Brussels for my last night.  I was surprised by Brussels, it was gorgeous and gave me Madrid vibes.  I had a real Belgium waffle and it was life changing.  That salted carmel butter holy shit, I can never go back to Eggos.  

I had the most amazing time exploring four different countries and all thanks to my awesome tour guide, Hans.  My least favorite was Germany but the rest of the cities I loved about equally.  I could see myself going back to Amsterdam or Brussels for the waffle but won't be too sad if I don't. Overall one of the best trips I've taken so far, I wish I could relive it.

Next trip is in September to Rome and Croatia.  

My Instagram has all of my phone photos - @kelseynicolesmith

Enjoy my camera (Canon 5D Mark ii) photos from my birthday trip...