Would not rush back to Belgium — Bruges can feel like a theme park in peak season was a real issue

I wanted to love Belgium more than I did. The positives exist: Bruges Belfry is genuinely impressive, Liège has moments of real charm, and Belgian ales is as good as people say.

But Bruges can feel like a theme park in peak season was a persistent problem throughout the trip and dragged the experience down. I've heard others say it's improved, but during my 10-day visit it was a constant friction point. Maybe I'll give it another chance in a few years. For now I'm directing my travel budget elsewhere.