GREETINGS FROM BELGIUM!

I can't believe that I've been in here in Brussels for three weeks already.

Duval Guillaume is truly one of the top agencies in Europe. It's not just because they can't find enough space for their awards (Cannes Lions, Clios, Eurobests, etc.) but because--even in these hard times (the recession has been pretty hardcore in Belgium)--they work really hard to find new ways of solving client challenges creatively.

I'm working with Robin Stam who is a Miami Ad School grad and s Senior Copywriter here, who is a great partner. (By the way, I love the fact Miami Ad School CWs can handle Photoshop and InDesign, it is a really big plus and makes things much faster.) I can't believe it, but around here they are treating me like a Senior Art Director!

The city is super nice and, as the capital of the European Union, a true melting pot of Europe, Africa, China and Turkey. The agency provides an apartment only a block away from their building (I can look over and check if I left my window open, which I have) with a great view. There are many great coffee shops--they don't sell exotic cigarettes like in Amsterdam--and very unique design shops. On every Saturday morning they have markets on the main squares with every kind of fowl, fish (living or not). meat, vegetable, and flower. It's a great opportunity to get to know the culture and also to have a nice breakfast with the locals.

A few more fun facts about Brussels:
- They don't except any tips and they will give it back if you do try to slip them some extra money.
- They don't use curtains (it comes from a Dutch tradition wherein neighbors kept tabs on the wives of sailors at sea, to make sure the didn't entertain any "visitors."
- Men greet each other with kisses (on the sides).

I made a video about my time here, I hope you enjoy it. Please click here to watch it.

I think I made a good choice. I will do my best as always!

Marti