Night one
Two coaches and sixteen hours later we arrived in Antwerp. Even though we’ve only packed clothes, toiletries and a laptop I’m shocked at how heavy our backpacks are. We checked into the hostel, made the bunk beds (very Matt Smith era Doctor Who reference) and went to get our bearings, tricky considering how quickly it went dark. With supermarkets shutting at 8:00pm we had our first European meal at famous American joint Five Guys sharing a grilled cheese and fries…
After two shows on Netflix we’ve gone for an early night. I am so grateful for Charley’s early birthday gift of earphones so I can listen to the air conditioning white noise generator app which has so far proved successful in aiding sleep! Failing that I’ve just hit my head on the bunk bed!
Day 1
After a lie in we headed out to explore Antwerp. Calling first at the majestic Antwerp central train station followed by a quick look at the Flamingos. Leanne recommended Wafelhuis van Hecke, the oldest ice cream parlour in Antwerp where we both had waffles for breakfast after we found the most amazing Harry Potter section in Primark. The rest of the day involved looking around the gorgeous architecture, a district of which was recommended by an “ask a local” feature on Facebook. Eleanor wanted to explore St. Anna’s Pedestrian Tunnel recommended by her ex-colleague Emmanuel, a 1930s underground tunnel under the river. Obligatory photo of a donut (shared ofc) from Hoeked! Soup for dinner followed by catching up on the Circle and Bake Off! #Kate/Alex
Antwerp Central 
Train lobby 
Eleanor 
Cherry Waffles 
Chocolate & Cream 
Antwerp Street 
Antwerp Cathedral 
Grote Market 
Antwerp Cathedral 
Sint-Annatunnel 
Salt / Sweet 
Cogels-Osylei
Day 2
A more relaxed day (I say relaxed, we walked for miles!) at Park Provinciaal Groendomein Rivierenhof. It was such a hot day that we thought we’d appreciate it before the colder days arrive. Afterwards we explored more of Antwerp’s beautiful architecture and ate instant noodles for dinner. Eating like we’re students again…
Our next destination is Düsseldorf where a kitchen will be available…craving vegetables! Antwerp has been a wonderful, vibrant, multicultural beautiful city and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
