REAL LIFE

Belgium and Florida

By Melisa, age 13, Belgium

I came to Florida on vacation to see my grandparents and my uncle and aunt. Since I don't come too often I'm always like, "Woohoo, Florida!" as are all foreigners who go anywhere. I go every year so I never really notice the differences between Brussels and Florida too much, and in previous years I was younger so I didn't pay much attention. But on this trip I started realizing the differences between the two places. Here are the main differences I notice:

First of all, the fooood in Florida! Of course, it is amazing. The burgers, fries, tacos, fried chicken, meatloaf and mashed potatoes, Caesar's salads ... *Drool* Everything very nicely set out, tasty ... But healthy? I'm not sure about that. They serve the food in very big quantities and I get so full just looking at it. It's very greasy, but oh so tasty. I hear some places put a taste enhancer in the food called MSG. But in Brussels, it's the complete opposite. Small quantities, less taste, less grease. It's more gourmet-like and sophisticated. In a way, it's good because too much fattening food is really bad for your health and is why there is so much obesity in the U.S. You hardly ever see fat people in Brussels, even with all the baguettes, waffles, and fries with mayo! So I guess it's all in the quantities.

Second of all, the attitude. "Hey! I'm Melisa, and I'll be your server for today! How's everyone doing? Can I start you off with some drinks?" That's Florida. Chirpy, cheerful, happy, and very lively. Even the shop clerks ask, "Hey, how are you?" You see, in Brussels, we just get the usual "Hi, drinks?" and it doesn't make the customers feel any more comfortable. I'm not saying everyone is like this. There are some really nice restaurants in Brussels, and the waiters and waitresses are really nice too!

Lastly, the TV. In Brussels, we only get a few commercials during a whole movie. But in Florida, we get at least ten. They come on every five minutes advertising weight loss plans, medication lawsuits, restaurants, bla bla bla. But at least they make some sort of sense. In Belgium, you have commercials that are musicals, but have to do with yogurt. Now that I don't understand. They make it so random, and then it turns out it had nothing to do with the thing they were advertising. Longer commercials, but fewer? I think I prefer that.

In general, I don't think that one country is better than the other. Of course, though, there will always be some aspects of one country that are better than the other. Brussels has its pro's and con's, as does the States (and in particular, Florida).

If you ever visit Belgium, make sure you stop by Bruges, and of course, the Grand Place in Brussels. Very pretty and a big tourist attractions! :)

If you visit Florida, well, obviously go to DISNEY WORLD! :D

I hope, if you go to either of these places, that you have a great time and enjoy! xoxo

What did you think about this article? Tell us!

First Name:
Age:
Email or MySpace:
Subject:	Belgium and Florida
Message: