Antwerp is arguably the better well recognized province in Belgium. The berth is important for its light-hearted citizens who wouldn't mind giving a helping hand to a needy tourist if need be. One pleasurable fact about the abode is that it is widely thought as as the diamond capital of the world, with the trade within Antwerp consisting of nearly 3/4ths of the diamond trade of the world.



As with many other spots in historically rich Belgium, Antwerp has a magnificent old lang syne. The area is a paradise for those who prefer literature, art, or even architecture as seen in spots like the Rubenshuis, the Plantin Moretus Museum, and the Cathedral of Our Lady, respectively. Since it is the diamond capital of the world, one might ask where one may buy some terrific diamonds. As mentioned earlier, 3/4ths of the world diamond trade happens in Antwerp, so the question is misleading, as one could buy diamonds just about anywhere in Antwerp. The quality would never be in question either as the pride of the province occupies in the diamonds one brings home.

The first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of what to do in Antwerp is to take advantage of the magnificent tours in the borough. The Port of Antwerp offers the most well famous circuit in the province. It is the fifth greatest port in the world, and it takes all of three hours to fully appreciate the vastness and superior of the home. There is also the Ghostly Nighttime peregrination, which allows excursionists to experience and learn about the allegedly haunted past events of the city. This is especially amusing because of the past of the home - it gives the stories a little more credence. Finally, if one is going to Antwerp in the summer, it is vital to go to Zomer van Antwerpen, which is the notorious, summer festival of the province.

Antwerp has its own brand of pleasure found in the bygone city centre. The Cafe Beveren is a quaint shop frequented by university students, singles, and sailors. There is also an antique organ and jukebox that is played by local talents. The Bourlaschouwburg is a round theatre that was once finished for the French elite in the 1830's. Now, you could watch the Het Toneelhuis theatre company display their talent in this theatre. Cartoons is a cinema house for foreign films and independently produced features. You may sit down and take in the cosy aura of the cinema house with your date.

Antwerp stands out from the rest of Belgium when it comes to food. While Brussels is prominent for its chocolate, Antwerp has a delicacy labeled "smos" which is made out of bread. It is difficult to say where the most "smos" is, as every human in Antwerp has a unlike opinion about it, but one well-liked store is Jean-Pierre. The friendly people of Antwerp will gladly direct the wayfarers to a hangout near the university where the preferred "smos" is served. The preferable restaurants in Antwerp do not offer Belgian food, unfortunately. The common food offered is just like the other sites with regard to ethnic food.

Antwerp's past as a trading hub allowed it to accumulate knowledge and experiences disparate from other cities in Belgium. Nowadays, Antwerp is going back to top form economically. Antwerp is one of the scant tourist ports in Europe that is classic and charismatic, ready to bring its muscle in the new century.