Best Way to Combat Terrorism? TOURISM!

In the wake of the tragic events in Brussels this week, I have opted to focus on the positive aspects of Brussels, i. e., upcoming gourmet food events that not only got me salivating, but made me regret I hadn’t gone to Brussels sooner! Brussels also reminds me of Ottawa, as it is similar in its diverse international residents, and its eclectic mix of multiculturalism. Belgium boasts of over 2,000 restaurants, with its chefs altogether claiming 17 stars in total.

Thanks to a very innovative Minister of Tourism, Mr. Christos Doulkeridis, Belgium has concentrated on its gourmet heritage with its highly successful Brusselicious campaign in 2012, starting with its creative Tramway Experience. One of its tramways has been converted into a gourmet restaurant, so now you can visit Brussels in style, with a 2-hour tour including a 3-course dinner made by top Brussels' chefs. This year's campaign is focusing on some of Brussels' top female chefs using local ingredients. The Tramway runs year-round, with a 1-month pause in July, so be sure to squeeze it into your schedule when you visit.

The next upcoming food event is the Brussels Food Truck Festival from May 6-8, in conjunction with Brussels Iris Festival. Over 100 food trucks await your gustative palate in Europe's largest food truck event. Be sure to check out Le petit nuage organic ice cream truck and El Camion Cantina Mexicana Food Truck.

Still in May, but higher up on the food chain is Culinaria, a Michelin star-studded event from May 21 - 25. Similar to Boston's Spinazzola Event, you can sample these famous chef's culinary delights with with a passport that will allow you to sample 4 plates over the 4-day period for 36¢.

Coming up in September is the Belgian Beer Weekend, showcasing over 70 of Brussel's top brewers. Enjoy the parade of historic beer carts, and the official knighting ceremony of the best beer ambassadors for that given year. The event is free; beer can be purchased from the vendors with special crowncorks.

Finally, what Belgian trip would not be complete without a chocolate event? Although it has already passed this year, celebrate next year's St. Valentine's Day early with a trip to Brussels for Le Salon du Chocolat the first week of February. From a fashion show with chocolate creations, to chocolate sculptures by Leonidis, get your chocolate fix (maybe even for the year) at this fun event.

This is just the cherry on the sundae of Brussel's gourmet events happening this year. It's most definitely Brusselicious and a great way to show your support for the local Brusselèèrs.