Antwerp capital of Diamond traders and world class harbour

When you arrive at the train station of this medieval city you immediately know you are in a very special city. Renovated and regenerated Architecture makes its many walk only zones a real pleasure to visit. Antwerp is still the worlds main Diamond trade city with a fairly large Jewish community . Antwerp used to be a major Fur trade center also and has a outstanding Zoo. Many local and international Designers have chosen Antwerp as their base to work from and a large chunk of the Belgian wealth resides in the beautiful town parts or surroundings country side where huge mansions battle for the curb appeal. It was fashionable in the 70s and 80s for Antwerp Jet Set to shop mainly in Brussels and Brussels rich and famous used to love shopping in Antwerp, till finally both city seem to have reclaimed the fame and glory to their own shopping haven. As teenagers for us it was normal to drive to Antwerp to go dancing when I lived in Brussels.
You are only a stone throw away from the Dutch border and a short drive to Amsterdam.