| Brussels: Opera with a difference |
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The price of a good seat at the Royal Opera House in London is beyond many people's budgets, so music fans might want to consider an alternative. It may seem crazy to consider going abroad, but if you take advantage of some of the great Eurostar deals out there that will get you to Brussels cheaply; a ticket to La Monnaie, which will prove a lot more reasonable than those in Covent Garden.
The current building is the third theatre on the site, with its façade dating from 1818. The most recent alterations, made in 1986, enhanced its appearance and it is undoubtedly one of the architectural treats of Brussels. Step inside the opera house and you will see a number of monumental paintings by Emile Fabry as well as recent additions such as the black and white marble floor designed by American artist Sol LeWitt. The opera house seats 1,7000, and in recent years audiences have been treated to some outstanding works under the direction of the likes of Antonio Pappano and Kazushi Ono. Of course, you don’t have to be a lover of opera to enjoy La Monnaie, as the theatre hosts top quality ballet. And whether you coincide your visit with an opera performance or one of the most popular ballets, chances are you can find Eurostar deals that will make your trip good value. If you are there over the weekend, you can see behind the scenes at the theatre on a guided tour, which is conducted in English. The tour takes in the entrance hall, main staircase, the auditorium and the royal box and royal private room, and tickets can be bought at the ticket office or online from the Brussels Tourist Office.
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La Monnaie – also
known as de Munt – is the home of the National Opera of Belgium.
And even before you get inside, it’s a feast for the eyes. 
