An Afternoon in Antwerp

One train ride and I found myself in this posh and unsuspecting city in Northern Belgium.

Antwerp has a thing for first impressions, as evidenced by the grandeur of its central railway station. Regarded as one of the most beautiful in all of Europe it's towering glass ceilings and ornate gold embellishes create a show stopping entrance.

One can't help but stand and admire the turn of the century architecture. It's beauty is an ode to the city's years as a fashion hub and a capitol of elegance.

A step outside of the splendid entrance hall and there's the museum of Belgium chocolate. A trip to the gift shop is enough to appreciate the myriad of tastes and flavors of one of the nation's most prized treasures.

A stroll down the central promenade filled with shops galore and I found myself drawn like a fly to honey at the Paleis de Meir or the Royal Palace of Antwerp which once housed the likes of Napoleon and the Belgian royal family during WW1.

It now houses a different kind of royalty..possibly the best chocolate in the world. A luxurious location for a decadent treat, the Chocolate Line is an award-winning chocolatier befit with an incredible selection of bonbons and artisan chocolates.

I stepped into some deep fantasy of mine when I ventured back into the kitchen. Chocolate sculptures towered over me. The aroma was divine. Posh easter bunnies were being molded before my eyes. I had to tear myself away.

I meandered into the Old City with its winding streets built in the 14th century. Around one corner I was struck by the Cathedral of Our Lady a stunning gothic building with a statue of the artist Peter Paul Rubens. One of the greats and a master of the Baroque period I have long admired.

Seeing the house where he created some of his masterpieces 400 years ago was surreal.

All the ooing and ahhing stirred up an appetite and what better to cure it than with a true Belgian waffle. Complete with strawberries, chocolate, and cream. Chef's kiss!

A walk towards the diamond district and I stumbled upon a different kind of gem- Luddite's Books & Wine. Just as the name proclaims this beautifully remodeled townhouse was home to two of my favorite vices.

A selection of Dutch and English favorites, bound in striking colors and organized accordingly made for a literal reading rainbow lining every shelf. And here's the kicker, the purchase of a book comes with half off on a glass at their wine bar on the third floor. Now, that's what I call a staircase to heaven.

If I open a shop like this in 20 years you'll know why.

The vibes were immaculate- white marble, gold fixtures, funky wallpapers, a broad stripe, and a scrumptious chocolate chip cookie with sea salt.

Known as the city of diamonds, Antwerp is known as the diamond capitol of the world and for good reason. 85% of all rough diamonds and 50% of all cut diamonds pass through the city and established the first diamond exchange in 1456 when a polishing device was invented to create symmetrical facets.

Since, the city holds four of the world's 30 diamond exchanges within its diamond district. Of course, I had to see this side of town for myself. Sure enough the windows were lined with jewels sparkling in every which cut.

Before I knew it, it was time to catch the train back to Amsterdam.

Antwerp glimmers across all its facets of art, fashion, and culture and is absolutely worth a visit (Just for the chocolate alone!).