Belgium
Antwerp may not be top of your list of shopping destinations but it was voted one of the top destinations for 2009, according to a survey of travel writers reported in 'The Observer'. Indeed, even Britney and her whole Circus were in town during the summer of 2009. So what's all the fuss?
Each year at Christmas, Grote Markt becomes choc full of stalls brimming with decorations and stocking fillers.
Fashionable Antwerp is also the place to head for diamond-hunters and once you've had your fill of Christmas shopping you can always dazzle on the ice rink that rolls into town for the festivities.
All-year round…
History is probably top of the list. The city really came into its own during medieval times. The goth fest that is the Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal) towers over the surrounds and was built over two centuries – from 1352 to 1521 – before being restored in the 19th century. Also, if you're keen on medieval architecture, try the nearby Steen Castle.
There are flashes of vibrant colour too. If you like wildlife, head for the Middenvijer Nature Park. It'll give keen birdwatchers a chance to get their fix, plus it offers great views of the River Scheldt.
Talking of waterways, you can even explore the city's subterranean sewer system in a guided tour – De Antwerpse Ruien – if you so wish. Don't worry, you get given protective suits to wear.
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AA Member benefits around Belgium.
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Cheap eats
There's more to Belgium than moules (mussels). Fish does feature heavily, but there's a little-known national dish to watch out for. Waterzooi is 'a delicate green stew of fish or chicken with leeks, parsley and cream', according to the authors of the AA's 'Citypack Guide' for Brussels and Bruges.
And a kids' favourite is 'stoemp' – potato mashed together with a healthy dose of vegetables, which often comes served with sausages.
According to AA Getaways, here's an idea of prices so you can gauge costs:
- bottle of water: €0.75
- baguette/sandwich: €3.00
- local beer: €3.50
- average meal price (bistro): €25 (per person)
Accommodation
Antwerp up in the north-east of the Belgium and according to 'AA Camping & Caravanning Europe 2009', there are campsites in Brecht and Stekene, both of which sandwich the city.
If you have an AA Membership Card, take it with you to get discounts around the world. Download a PDF of Belgian discounts redeemable through the 'Show Your Card!' scheme.
Getting there
Hull ferries route through to Rotterdam, which is just over an hour's drive from Antwerp. Alternatively, Harwich ferries sail to Hook of Holland, which is roughly an hour and a half from Antwerp, with Rotterdam en route. If you're coming from France, Dunkirk is an hour and half's drive away and you can route through Bruges and Ghent.
Breaking down in Belgium
The main languages spoken in Belgium are Flemish, Dutch, French and German.
If your language skills don't stretch to fan belt and head gasket in any of those languages, it's worth considering AA European Breakdown Cover. The reassurance of 24-hour English-speaking assistance means that if you break down, all you have to do is give us a call.
We'll arrange for a local mechanic to come out to you. And if the car can't be fixed, we get you, your family and the car home again. And that peace of mind costs from just £9.05 for a day.
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Last updated: 30 July 2009
Prices correct at the time of going to press.
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