Antwerp

A compact, mobile, yet luxurious hotel that pops-up at unique locations around the city? Now that is my idea of “Sleeping Around”! The like-named pop-up hotel happened to occupy the city’s Left Bank (Linkeroever) for my stay, which couldn’t have been better scripted! A stone’s throw from the city just across the River Schelde and yet somehow worlds apart. The perfect spot to relax and recharge!

If I could, I would not hesitate to move in to this hip and healthy eatery on Antwerp’s south side (‘t Zuid). Tinsel offers fresh and wholesome food, friendly staff and a cute interior: i.e. everything I need to be happy. The place’s owner and operator, Tine, puts her heart and soul into this place every day, baking fresh bread, cakes and other delights. Stop by for breakfast or lunch and be sure to try the Flower Fizz! Added bonus: free wifi!

I just can’t resist this heavenly and luxurious boudoir-like store, filled with all manner of elegance by brands such as See by Chloé, Ba&sh, Paul & Joe Sister, Laurence Doligé and others. Besides clothing, you’ll also discover handcrafted jewelry, bags and accessories. Oh, and shoes! what would heaven be without shoes?

Planning an adventure anytime soon? AS Adventure has a nice selection of Eastpak bags on the Meir, Antwerp’s high street. This is definitely the place to be for all would-be globetrotters, nature lovers and active leisure hedonists.

I need my daily dose of coffee and nothing is better than the "soort koffie” brewed with passion by the lovely crew at Caffenation. In summer, they have a fabulous terrace, but inside is just as cozy as well. Grab a coffee, open a book, get comfortable and greet the day with a smile.

Antwerp is a city of artists. The Museum of Modern Art has a varied offer of international exhibitions. One of the best reasons to visit the museum is for its café and, more precisely, its terrace. MUHKAFE boasts some of the best views in the city. And when you’re done admiring Antwerp’s city skyline, you marvel at the work of Keith Haring, who left his mark here in 1987 in the form of an impressive mural.

In the bustling streets of De Wilde Zee and Lombardenvest, you will find the restaurant Hungry Henrietta. This strategically located eatery is the ideal spot for lunch for those looking to take a load off after a busy morning shopping. Enjoy impeccable service and quality food with a French twist in the stylish interior or on the sunny terrace.

I admit it, I’m not much into clubbing. Rather give me a hip and happening café like Korsakov, for instance. Whether it’s for a quick or lingering coffee break during the day, a glass of organic wine in the evening or Belgian beers at night, this bar in the city centre has something for everyone. There are free live concerts on most Wednesdays and Sundays. The second floor is worth checking out with its vintage furniture and writing on the walls. It kinda feels like Berlin, such an inspiring place!