monsHeading to Belgium with kiddos? WanderMom Zosia, mother, military spouse, over thinker, blogger, world traveler and community volunteer can point you in the right direction when it comes to finding the best places to take your little ones . Here is her guide to kid-friendly Mons and the surrounding area! And there is no better time to visit this little city; Mons is a 2015 European Capitol of Culture so the things to do are unlimited.
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eat: Mons is filled with restaurants. here are a few of our family favorites:
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Two locations serving fresh pizza and pasta. Both locations have outdoor seating.
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Steak cooked on a sizzling stone makes for on table entertainment. The menu also includes pastas and traditional Belgian dishes.
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Tasty curries that are flavorful without being too spicy.
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Everybody loves pizza and this brick oven pizza is sure to please. The staff love children here.
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Italian and French food close to the train and bus stations. Varied menu pasta, pizza and salad.
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Handmade gourmet burgers that the entire family will love. Try the frites with housemate ketchup.
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What better way to end your day than with ice cream. In addition to homemade ice cream in a variety of flavors, Georges also has crepes and house made chocolates.
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With fresh vegetables, a variety of meat and lots of couscous, this has become one of my favorite restaurants in Mons. Take out available.
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play: INSIDE, OUTSIDE OR A LITTLE OF BOTH. REGARDLESS OF THE SEASON OR THE WEATHER, THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS TO DO IN MONS
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Its a zoo, aquarium, botanical garden, epic world tour and playground all in one place. Rain or shine kids of all ages love spending the day at Pairi Daiza. The kilometers of walking trails, hundreds of animals, two playgrounds and plenty of picnic tables will have you coming back over and over again.
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Come spend the day playing with science. With hands on, interactive exhibits and activities, you'll be able to discover the great diversity of science. Learn about acrobatics, machinery, physics, the history of the region and so much more at this museum located on the grounds of an old coal mine.
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Cycling along the canals is the best way to explore the beauty of the region. Either bring your own or rent one, pack a picnic and peddle away. You'll pass through villages and farm land and discover the true beauty of the region.
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Take in a bit of history at this annual event. Each year the tanks return to Mons reenacting the city's 1944 liberation by Allied forces. Visitors can watch reenactments, ride the tanks, shop for authentic memorabilia and explore the allied encampment while joining history buffs at this truly unique event.
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Who doesn't love exploring old ruins? Spend the day at Abbaye d'Aulne in nearby Thuin. Kids will love exploring all of the nooks and crannies of this abbey and gardens. Afterwards enjoy lunch at one of the nearby restaurants that serve local food and abbey beer.
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Meet a dragon at Musee du Doudou
The UNESCO recognized Ducasse de Mons is held each spring and there is even a kid's version of this spectacular event. But if you miss the weekend, you can learn about the story of George and the dragon year around at the Musee de Doudou.
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stay: take your pick; mons hotels love families
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This mid range hotel chain is super family friendly and a great value for traveling families. The hotel is located on the outskirts of Mons.
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Conveniently located hotel with easy access to the highway and the center of Mons. Breakfast is included with most rooms.
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This hostel is located minutes from the Grand Place, train station and the best attractions in Mons. Family rooms are available.
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A cozy bed and breakfast located on a farm in the Mons countryside. Breakfast includes products produced on the farm. Family rooms available.
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general tips:
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Weather in Belgium unpredictable so be prepared for everything. Dress in layers and always carry an umbrella. And while much of the area is relatively flat, many of the streets are cobblestone so wear sturdy shoes. If you need it, bring a sturdy stroller, or better yet, a baby carrier or backpack.
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French is the official language of Wallonia but many people also speak a bit of English. A French phrase book is helpful--especially if you wander off the beaten path.
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Are your feet tired from all of the walking? Then hop on the free circulator bus. With three routes, these buses will take your from one side of the city to the other. So whether you want to visit the Grand Pres (mall) or the Grand Place (central square), the bus can take you there.
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Required reading:
Visitmons.com
Belgiumwithkids.com
Rough Guide To Belgium
Lonely Planet Belgium
Belgium or Bust (personal blog)
Belgiumwithkids.com
Rough Guide To Belgium
Lonely Planet Belgium
Belgium or Bust (personal blog)
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