Ask the crew: Senior Purser Joyce Chan’s guide to Brussels

To celebrate Cathay’s 80th anniversary, we asked Cathay Pacific Senior Purser Joyce Chan about her most-loved city. From warm decadent waffles to picturesque boat rides, Chan reels off all the best things to eat, see and do in the Belgian capital.

“I’ve been with Cathay for 18 years and, while I have many favourite destinations, Brussels holds a special place in my heart. The city feels magical during the festive season with Christmas markets throughout the centre, a huge Christmas tree in the Grand Place and a laser show that illuminates the square every evening.”

Must-do

Take a short trip to Ghent, a beautifully preserved medieval city just 35 minutes by train from Brussels, famed for its historic architecture and charming canals. A boat ride along Graslei offers a wonderful perspective on the city, and afterwards I enjoyed wandering beside the water. You could take a postcard-worthy photograph almost anywhere.

Must-eat

To indulge in the city’s iconic Belgian waffles and hot chocolate, I recommend Maison Dandoy , one of Brussels’s oldest waffle houses. Established in 1929, it serves warm, sugary waffles with a wonderfully chewy texture – perfect for a cold winter’s day.

Must-pack

I never travel without sunglasses – they help me step out into a city looking like I haven’t just got off a long-haul flight.

Favourite Cathay memory

For Cathay’s 80th anniversary, I’ve had the honour of wearing the Hermès-designed vintage uniform (1983-1990) at special events, including the Tram Parade and catwalk show at The Peninsula Hong Kong.

What surprised me most was how the uniform has sparked conversation. Passengers stop to ask questions, share memories and ask for photographs. One told me: “That’s my favourite uniform in Cathay history. You look so nice in it.” I feel I’m connecting two generations of Cathay crew – those who wore it originally, and us, wearing it now to mark 80 years of service.