Stadhuis Antwerpen

After being stuck at Radisson Blu for a few days, it was totally cool when the mayor invited a group of students I was very fortunate to be a part of to host awards here.
«This entire building existed before your country», said a city official, with pride. Painting and sculptures everywhere, dating back to 1576, allowed for prime photo ops. Security is very polite… and very stealthy. I was aimlessly snapping photos, only to be greeted by a silent man in a suit when I turned around. No harm, no foul. They’re vigilant, but not *too* intrusive.
Beverages were served, and there was plenty of space for over a hundred people to admire the various works. It’s too bad Mayor Patrick Janssens couldn’t make it, however. Perhaps he was busy with regular duties. Perhaps it’s because he’s a known homophobe whose views are incompatible with our tolerant, cosmopolitan community. Either way, getting our only glimpse into a city with so much history was unforgettable.
When Americans think of Belgium, most of us think of Brussels… maybe Brugge. Definitely not Antwerp. Seeing Stadhuis was one of many confirmations this city should be a prime spot for travelers.

Antwerp city hall. A nice building on the outside but even more beautiful on the inside. But the only time you will visit it is when you get married. Normally they will renovate it by 2016 with shops on the ground floor as it was in the 17^th century.