One of Antwerp's famous public murals
After leaving my friends in Lille I headed to Antwerp to stay with Iris - a former BBC friend who's now making a name for herself as a food blogger, writer and photographer. She has a great blog full of top travel and foodie tips if you're looking for a feast for the eyes and senses. I was fortunate enough to arrive in the city during press week - so I was invited to lots of exciting book launches and fashion/food events. This new wine bar Divin has just been opened by Sepi, who's one of Belgium's top sommeliers. We were treated to a range of beautiful tasting dishes which will be served alongside a handpicked selection of quality wines. I also drank the most delicious glass of rhubarb juice - the flavour was incredibly pure. Highly recommended! Sepi has just published a new book all about wine designed to cut through all the complicated language and posturing that's sometimes associated with this speciality. It's such a shame it's not available in English as I'd love to know more about my 'wine personality' and how to taste wine properly. Whilst we're on the subject of alcohol - I'd also put a gold star next to Vascobelo near Antwerp's main medieval square. Not only are the cocktails delicious, but there are substantial nibbles included in the price of your drink and if you're lucky, a seat looking right out over the stunning Grote Markt.
I was really impressed by Antwerp's shopping - I explored the area around Kloosterstraat where there are some unique vintage and antiques shops as well as a sprinkling of hipster lifestyle emporiums. I loved the range of shoes and bags in Noë which are available in no less than 88 colours. Everywhere you look in Antwerp there are pops of colour - even the bikes (which are plentiful - watch out whilst your walking) are inspiring.
When it comes to places to pause for a coffee - one in particular really excited me. I'd actually hoped to do a Mobile Makery workshop at Maurice but sadly Veronique the superbly glam and quirky entrepreneur behind the concept was too busy knitting for her new collection. But no matter, I could see that she has her work cut out running not only her coffee shop but a knitwear label too. What really impressed me about this place was the way in which Veronique has managed to create a totally charming and inviting space in the sterile environment of a bank foyer. Using a few perfectly chosen flea-market pieces and some expertly designed room dividers, she's managed to carve out cosy nooks for people to linger, log-on and socialise. The coffee is great, and the atmosphere welcoming. I really hope I get to meet Veronique next time I'm in town.
There's imagination at work in Antwerp. This new launderette come coffee shop is currently the talk of the town. And you can see why. Apparently people come in to wash a pair of socks just so they can have a reason to hang out here!
No visit to Antwerp would be complete for me without going to the Fashion Museum. It's currently showing an exhibition about Dries Van Noten's Inspiration (on until 19th July) and if you can - I suggest you go! It's excellent - explaining how Dries puts together thoroughly original collections from a range of influences - history, fashion, film, music, culture, craftsmanship - all have their part to play. I was thoroughly absorbed for a good two hours. Afterwards I browsed in the museum bookshop - spotting a hardback about the milliner Madame Paulette. I didn't buy it though. I have four months to go and I can't spend all my hard-earned cash at once!
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