Most people think they have Flanders - the northern half of Belgium -
figured out: beer, chocolate and the EU. Once labeled 'boring', the
region is now being radically reappraised. Emma Thomson introduces
travelers not only to the World Heritage Sites of Brussels' Grand Place
or Bruges' romantic canals, but also to snug off-the-beaten-track spots,
like the bewitched village of Laarne, and Geraardsbergen - the real home
of Manneken-Pis. Flanders has something for everyone: the business
tourist; the wildlife and outdoor enthusiast; the traveler wanting to
eke out villages; and the visitor who fancies a bit of luxury and
pampering.