Brussels Mini europe and Atomium Day Out, Belgium

Planning our trip to Brussels, my boyfriend insists we go to Mini Europe. I think it sounds a bit childish, so I put it in an 'optional' segment of the itinerary. I put together a plausible explanation as to why we might not go there. Particularly if the weather is inclement, there is nothing worse than being in an outdoor theme park. The idea goes on hold.

While we holiday in Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges in the first week of December, we expect some bad weather. There is none. Every single day is crisp, with sunshine beating down, warming our hearts towards the delights Belgium has to offer. Winter city breaks can be magical, if you are fortunate enough to have this kind of weather.

Mini Europe in Brussels is a delightfully designed village. As we enter this childhood oasis of themed restaurants and sweet shops, we are grateful to be here in December, and not the summer.

It is quiet, like a western film set. I'm waiting for the tumbleweed to blow down the street. In the distance I can hear two Russian women and their children skipping towards the entrance for Mini Europe. We are not quite alone, it seems.

I feel like Gulliver, as I look down the narrow path leading to attractions that I recognise. Firstly we must have a photograph taken inside an armoured soldier sculpture. All of the adults in the park stop to do this, it is part of the fun.

Everyone is giggling, and despite my serious nature, I find myself thinking; "just let yourself go, this is fun."

Obediently, we stick to the winding path, admiring the Mini Europe buildings, and the attention to detail. Brussels has put a couple more buildings in, than everyone else, and strangely, Bath's "The Circus" is featured.

Leaving the "adult" behind, as there is hardly anyone there to witness me, I giggle and admire the trains of Europe moving underneath my feet; the gong of Big Ben; and discover that most buildings play the national anthem of their country when I press a big button.

There are many moments you can see me standing hand on my heart, pretending I'm at a state occasion.

The park is very educational, and a good place to recall all the places you've visited. Every attraction is scaled 1 to 25.

We fall to pieces laughing after we press the button for Mt Vesuvius. Beneath our feet the platform shakes furiously; the volcano replica rumbles and erupts with a bang, releasing a huge puff of smoke! This hilarity continues as the theme song from Star Wars, by John Williams, greets us when the space shuttle Columbia takes off.

You can buy a combination ticket to see Mini Europe and enter the Brussels Atomium. Built in 1958 for World Expo, The Atomium explores technology, scientific innovation, and environmental sustainability within five spheres. Arranged on different levels and heights, entering the Atomium is a unique architectural experience.

I recommend visiting both Mini Europe and the Atomium in Brussels for a great day out. There is plenty of entertainment and some great photo opportunities.