Antwerp - The hidden gem of Europe

And guess what else? You'll spot these electric scooters called 'Birdies' all over the place. People are zipping around on them, adding to the city's lively atmosphere. You can find them next to the bike docking stations, making it super convenient to hop on and zip around.

Honestly, Antwerp is such a walkable city too. If you're staying centrally, most of the attractions are within a stone's throw, so you can just take a leisurely stroll and soak in all the charm.

Alright, alright, enough talk about history – you can Google that stuff later. Let's dive into our two epic days in Antwerp! Grab your comfiest kicks, and let's go explore this hidden paradise of Europe. Antwerp, here we come, with our backpacks full of curiosity and our hearts ready for adventure! Let's make memories that'll keep us laughing and smiling for years to come!

Day 1

My day started at the Antwerpen Centraal train station, which they say is one of the most beautiful in the world. I felt like I had stepped into a fairytale land with all those grand arches and intricate details. I couldn't help but pretend I was a royal arriving at my own kingdom! Don’t forget to look up towards the dome ceiling – an impressive feature, much like the stone station building.

Next stop was the city center, and let me tell you, I'm not the best with directions. I managed to get lost for a good half-hour, but hey, getting lost in Antwerp is like stumbling upon hidden treasures around every corner! Finally, I found myself at the Grote Markt, and it was worth the journey. The church building was so majestic

Now, picture me on a Sunday, stomach growling, and surrounded by a little market. The locals were selling all sorts of weird and wonderful stuff. I couldn't resist the urge to check out the second-hand books, and guess what? I found an old love letter from the 1800s! I bet those words had a real Romeo and Juliet vibe.

Lunchtime arrived, and I was ready to feast like a king! I had a big decision to make – all these fancy dishes or fast food? My inner foodie got the best of me, and I went for the fries – I mean, you can't be in Belgium and not have fries, right? Covered in mayo, they were heaven on a plate! And then, the moment I tried the Belgian waffle, I swear I heard angels singing. It was pure bliss – strawberries, vanilla, whipped cream – a whole symphony of flavors in my mouth!

To work off all those indulgent treats, I decided to check out the MAS museum- Museum Ann de Storm on a bike. Imagine me trying to cycle like a pro, but I kept wobbling like a newborn giraffe! Finally, I found my balance and reached the museum. And let me tell you, that unique-looking building had me feeling like I was inside a futuristic spaceship! The exhibits were mind-blowing, covering everything from power politics to exploring death – talk about a rollercoaster of emotions!

But here's the highlight – the terrace at the top! I swear I saw the city from every possible angle up there. As the sun started setting, the whole scene turned into a romantic movie moment. I half-expected someone to propose up there!

As the day drew to a close, I pedaled my way to Linkeroever, trying to look all cool and sophisticated, sipping on Belgian beer like a pro. Afterall evenings in Antwerp are made for relaxing with Belgian beer and crispy french fries, while enjoying the cold breeze, watching the sunset and Antwerp’s skyline at Linkeroever

Antwerp, you stole my heart with your beauty, history, and delicious treats. I'm already planning my next escape to this enchanting city. Who knows what misadventures and magical moments await me next time!

Day 2

There’s a lot more history and culture to get into today – this is Europe, after all. But it’s all worth it once you get to taste the best chocolate in the world, and be mesmerized by the glitter of shopping streets and food, food and only food !

Oh boy, let me tell you about my epic European adventure on this second day! Picture me in Antwerp, ready to take on the world – armed with a map that I probably folded all wrong. But hey, getting lost is part of the fun, right?

I kicked off my day at the Plantin-Moretus Museum, feeling like a time traveler. This museum commemorates Christophe Plantin, who was the first industrial printer in history. It has the distinction of being home to the oldest printing presses in the world and is the only remaining printing workshop and publishing house in the world, dating back to 1555. As I marveled at the ancient printing presses, I couldn't help but imagine myself as the Gutenberg of the 21st century, cranking out bestsellers for the masses! If only printing books was as easy as printing boarding passes, am I right?

And then came shopping day – every shopaholic's dream! I marched down Meir Street like a kid in a candy store, and trust me, I had to resist the urge to buy everything. But let's just say, retail therapy is my favorite kind of therapy, and my credit card was screaming for mercy by the end of the day.

The shopping extravaganza at the Stadsfeestzaal center – it's an absolute must! Trust me, you'll be tempted to spend hours on this street, and who could blame you? It's a shopaholic's paradise!

This place has it all – from top international clothing and shoe labels to the biggest names you'd find on any European high street. It's like a fashion lover's dream come true! But hey, don't forget to sprinkle some local boutique shopping into the mix. They've got hidden gems waiting to be discovered, and you never know what unique finds you'll stumble upon!

But here's the real highlight – the chocolate! Oh my sweet tooth, I couldn't contain my excitement as I walked into The Chocolate Line. The aroma of cocoa hit me like a delicious punch in the face! I swear, I turned into a chocolate ninja, sampling every praline like a pro. I might've even done a little happy dance – I mean, who wouldn't in Napoleon's kitchen, right?

Now, I must confess, I might've overindulged a bit on the chocolates, because later, I had to take a leisurely stroll to work off those delightful calories. But let me tell you, European streets have a magical way of making you forget you're exercising – it's like sightseeing with a side of fitness!

And as I sat on a bench, savoring the last bite of my heavenly Belgian waffle, I couldn't help but laugh at how much fun I was having. Solo travel was an adventure like no other. I mean, who needs company when you have friendly locals to guide you, and your awkward attempts at speaking their language make them burst into laughter?

These past two days have been an incredible journey of discovery – immersing myself in the rich culture, heritage, and meeting fascinating people along the way. It's mind-blowing to witness how Europe transforms as we drive just a few hours from one place to another. Each city and region holds its own unique charm, and I can't help but be in awe of the diversity and beauty that Europe has to offer.

So, there you have it – my Antwerp escapade filled with history, shopping, and a chocolate coma. And the best part? I'm already planning my next rendezvous with Europe, armed with a better-folded map and an even bigger appetite for fun and adventure. I can't wait to share more about my adventures in Bruges, Ghent, the Netherlands, and Brussels with all of you soon. Until then, keep exploring, keep laughing, and keep those taste buds dancing with delight! Cheers to more misadventures , priceless memories and cherished moments on the road!