Antwerpen, België

Statue of Brabo and the giant's hand

The highlight of this weekend was definitely Saturday's day trip to Antwerp, Belgium. The city is named after the myth that a hero cut off a giant's hand because the giant had been forcing people to pay a toll to enter the city, and he would cut off a hand of those who refused. Thus, hantwerpen (hand throwing) evolved into Antwerpen.

Me and a couple of other exchange students decided to head into Belgium on Saturday, and it was an easy two hour train ride to Antwerp. If I'd known what a great city it was I probably would have stayed longer, but I guess I still have time to go back! There was lots to see, and we fit in as much as we could, even knocking one UNESCO world heritage site off my to-do list (Plantin-Moretus Museum, home of printers Plantijn and Moretus). I know all my pictures are just of old buildings that I'm sure don't do the city justice, which is why you should check it out for yourself!

Antwerp Station Centraal - apparently the 4th most beautiful train station in the world

Europe's oldest skyscraper

City Hall and Statue of Brabo and the giant's hand

Guildhouses, 16th c.

Really old buildings

Grote Markt (main square)

The Steen, only remaining portion of Antwerp's fortification.
In front is a Disney poster

Also, I hope everyone at home has a Happy Thanksgiving!
I miss you all, especially with the holidays approaching (much faster than I'd like). Thinking of everyone from home this Thanksgiving. Although, I can safely say that the one thing I will not miss this year is pretzel salad- no offense Cherry family, don't kick me out. Luckily my friend Stephanie Bauman will be coming to visit, so I will be spending my Thanksgiving weekend in Amsterdam with her! It will help console my holiday homesick, but I'll be thinking and missing all of you! Hope it's delicious.