Belgian Beer Cafe Redux and Moving to Balga

After the charm of our first house sit ended, we moved back to the Belgian Beer Cafe; we couldn’t resist the opportunity to return. The familiar clinking of glasses, the rustic European decor, and the warm buzz of conversation greeted us once more. The Thursday special (chicken schnitzel with a pint of Stella for 25AUD) was a highlight.

However, this second stay didn’t quite capture the magic of the first—mostly due to the room we stayed in. Our first room had two large windows that could open, letting in natural light and fresh air, along with enough space to lay out our luggage comfortably on the floor. This time, we were given a much smaller room without a window, which made the space feel cramped. Opening our luggage was a juggling act and the lack of fresh air added to the sense of being boxed in. Still, the cafe’s cosy charm and the nostalgic ambience made it an enjoyable experience overall.

From the heart of the city, we transitioned to our next house-sit in Balga, swapping cityscapes for suburban charm. Balga is a vibrant suburb with a rich cultural tapestry, a stark contrast to Kewdale, where our first house-sit had been. Kewdale felt quieter, with an industrial edge softened by parks like Tomato Lake. Balga, on the other hand, hums with diversity and energy, offering a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals.

One of the challenges we’ve faced in Balga is finding a good walking route. While we’re still exploring the area, nothing has yet compared to the paths around Tomato Lake in Kewdale, which were perfect for morning strolls. Another difference is the convenience factor. In Kewdale, a Coles supermarket and shopping centre were just a short walk away, making errands a breeze. Here in Balga, the closest option is a small IGA—a local chain of independently owned grocery stores. IGAs are known for catering to their neighbourhoods with personalized selections, but they’re smaller and lack the range of bigger supermarkets (and quite a bit more expensive).

That said, the house we’re staying in here is a definite upgrade. It’s more modern, with a bright and open layout, and feels much better maintained. It’s a comfortable space to relax, and our furry charges —two cats and a Beagle-Staffy mix—seem to agree. She’s already claimed a sun-soaked corner of the backyard as her favourite spot.

While Balga hasn’t yet won us over completely, it’s clear the suburb is evolving. The streets are lively, with kids playing and neighbours chatting over fences, and the community spirit is undeniable. It’s different from Kewdale’s quieter, more subdued vibe, but that variety is what makes this journey so interesting.

As for the Belgian Beer Cafe, it remains a favourite—though perhaps it’s best enjoyed in smaller doses to preserve its allure. Balga, with its more modern housing and authentic suburban energy, is growing on us as we discover its hidden gems. Here’s to the next chapter, wherever it takes us—cheers, or as they say in Belgium, Santé!