Belgium

The art of the beer coaster

Beer coasters are a bit of fun, practical art under your glass.  But did you know that the first beer coasters were invented in 19th century Germany?  They were called [...]

Coffee breaks

We’re all creatures of habit, when it comes down to it.  Even when we travel, there are still some comforting daily rituals that we like to indulge in.  For me, [...]

The sandwich board is your friend

Exploring a new city on foot is a good way to work up a healthy appetite.  Oh, but where to eat?  Since I like to be spontaneous, the sandwich board is my friend.  An [...]

I want to ride my bicycle

“I want to ride my bike.  I want to ride my bicycle.  I want to ride it where I like.” – Queen. Spring is still a little more than a month away, but [...]

Vintage cars rule!

I guess I’m one of those nostalgic people who think, “they don’t make ’em like they used to”.  I love the look of vintage automobiles, [...]

New Graffiti

Here’s some new and colorful street art from my last visit to Mainz, Germany and Antwerp, [...]

Antwerp by Bike

Like many cities in Northern Europe,  Antwerp is a great place for cyclists.  The city is very flat, and there are plenty of bike paths, which makes commuting, running [...]

Het Melkhuis, Antwerp

I’m always on the lookout for affordable and comfortable places to sleep when I travel.  When I find something within budget that is also unique and memorable, [...]

An underwater walk in Antwerp

Have you ever walked under a river?  For a completely new experience, check out the St. Anna tunnel in Antwerp, where you can take a ride on a vintage Art Deco escalator 31 [...]

Door knobs as works of art?

If you walk around in many European cities and study the architecture,  you’ll notice some surprising details that serve both a functional and an artistic purpose.  A [...]