Antwerpen

On the plane ride over a scribbled down a few ideas of places I would like to visit on this 5 month excursion to Brussels, and here is what I came up with:
1.Paris, France
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
3. Antwerp, Belgium
4. Bruges, Belgium
5. London, England
6. Prague, Czech Republic

one of many adorable squares in Antwerp

7. Frankfurt/Munich, Germany
8. Zurich, Switzerland

Two weeks into my study abroad in Brussels, Belgium, I decided it was high time to get out and take a short visit to a different city. So, my new friend, Yonseili and I made the decision on Thursday to visit Antwerp (Antwerpen, to the locals) today. I woke up about the bright fine hour of 6 AM and met Yonseili at the train station at 7:30 for my very first train ride. We arrived in Antwerp around 8:30, sat down for a nice chai tea latte to warm our bones, and set out to explore the city. We walked through the shopping district before it opened and just window shopped, then we stumbled upon some of the most quaint brick streets and small squares that I have ever seen. The architecture of the tall, narrow, individualistic buildings is so adorable and cozy-feeling. Antwerp perfectly captures the image of quaint, old world Europe that is so romantic and utterly mesmerizing. We grabbed a Belgian waffle (I don't think I could ever eat too many of that savory snack) and continued to walk, take pictures, and enjoy the peace and quiet of a Saturday morning while most people are still in bed or just waking up.

De Kleine Post

At about 11:45 we decided it was time to eat some lunch, so of course we hunted down Antwerp's (or maybe Belgium, in general) famous mussels et frites. We found an adorable restaurant named De Kleine Post and shared a huge pot of the best mussels the ever exist. It was not the cheapest lunch, but most definitely a rewarding one. After the restaurant we meandered through the small allies again and found ourselves in the diamond quarter, lusting over stunning collections.

I give Antwerp two thumbs up for its old-world charm, sophisticated shopping district, delectable dishes, and relaxed atmosphere. Antwerp is definitely for the easy-going travelers who enjoy a flexible schedule and calming ambiance.