Brussels's Brutal & Beautiful Future: Infrastructure, Chaos, & Coffee
okay, so brussels. it’s…a lot. right now, the air feels like someone left a damp wool sweater in the sun - a kind of clinging, slightly unpleasant humidity. you can practically taste the exhaust fumes mingling with the faint scent of fries (which, let’s be honest, is a good thing). it’s that kind of overcast day that makes you want to curl up with a beer and a good book, but also feel vaguely agitated.
anyway, infrastructure. yeah, that’s the word on everyone’s lips. the city's trying to modernize, but it’s less a sleek revolution and more a series of…patch-ups. the metro is perpetually late (don’t even get me started - I saw a guy juggling while waiting for one the other day. peak brussels). but there are projects happening. massive ones.
The biggest one right now is the Brussels Ring Road extension. think of it as a giant, concrete snake slithering around the perimeter. the goal? ease congestion, which, let's face it, is a constant battle. the estimated cost? a cool €1.1 billion. locals are not thrilled about the environmental impact - a whole lotta green spaces are getting sacrificed.
Then there’s the whole public transport overhaul. they're talking about expanding the tram network, upgrading existing lines, and making it all more accessible. this is crucial because, dude, biking is the only way I’m navigating this city. seriously, the traffic is a nightmare. last week I saw a dog wearing a tiny helmet. i'm not kidding. ⚠️ check out the local transportation website MIVB for schedules and updates.
*The Quais. They're trying to revitalize them. More green space, better pedestrian access, more…stuff. honestly, it feels a bit like a missed opportunity. the quais could be this amazing, relaxing space, but it’s often crowded and a little…gritty. a local warned me about pickpockets, especially around the Grand Place - standard tourist fair, I guess.
Speaking of the Grand Place, it’s honestly breathtaking, even with the throngs of tourists. it’s a classic - and you can't avoid it. but it’s become so overrun with souvenir shops that it feels almost… artificial.
Saint-Gilles. This neighborhood is seeing a massive influx of new residents. Think trendy cafes, hip restaurants, and a whole lot of overpriced apartments. It's the place to be if you want to feel like you’re part of the “cool” crowd. Rent’s sky-high, though. Like, seriously high. according to Numbeo, the cost of living in Brussels is about 35% higher than in London. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment can easily be €1,400 - €2,000 a month. (ouch).
The Canal. The canal area is experiencing a boom in artisan workshops and creative spaces. It’s got a really cool vibe, full of hidden courtyards and quirky little shops. I swear, every other doorway seems to be a vintage store - which, as you know, is my kryptonite. I scoped out a few gems on Vinted recently - some serious finds.
Job market? it's…mixed. Brussels is a major hub for EU institutions, so there are opportunities, but the competition is fierce. mostly, the jobs lean towards EU bureaucracy or tech startups. If you're a LinkedIn lurker, you'll see a ton of openings. But be prepared for a lot of applications.
What’s the future really look like? honestly, i’m not sure. but it’s definitely going to be…loud. and crowded. and expensive. but maybe, just maybe, it’ll also be a little bit more livable. the city council is pushing for more sustainable development, which is a good start. but it’s going to take a lot more than just greenwashing to make a real difference. oh, and the beers are still amazing. don’t forget the beers.
*Overheard Gossip:**
“The new tram line? yeah, it’ll be great... eventually. Just don't hold your breath waiting for it.”
“Rent’s insane. I’m considering moving to Ghent. At least the beer is cheaper there.”
“They’re tearing down that old cinema on Rue Saint-Pierre. Another soulless office building, no doubt.”
So yeah, that’s brussels for you. a chaotic mix of old and new, beauty and grime, hope and despair. a place where you can get lost in a maze of cobblestone streets, discover hidden gems, and get completely frustrated with the public transportation system, all in the space of an afternoon. and of course, drink a lot of coffee. (seriously, this city runs on coffee). if you’re planning a visit, check out TripAdvisor or Yelp for recommendations. just be prepared for anything.
And don't even get me started on the waffles. they're addictive. ”
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