Autumn makes me fall in love with nature year after year. As the leaves turn red and gold, I systematically feel myself drawn to the forest to enjoy this magnificent spectacle from up close. This year I decided to head to the East of the country on this occasion, to the Belgian Ardennes, where the country’s largest natural reserve can be found. The Hautes Fagnes is a unique area in Europe and truly a nature lover’s dream. Between the cities of Eupen, Montjoie, Malmedy and Spa, you can find the most picturesque hiking trails. And most hotels in the area boast a wellness center, turning your getaway into a complete relaxing experience.

Antwerp is known as the Belgian capital of fashion and, as such, I’ve always felt very much drawn to this place. So much so that I’ve decided to move here almost one year ago! Antwerp has many exciting facets, from its rich history to a wide offer in terms of culture. And of course the city is a great shopping destination! I am delighted to tell you that my favorite boutiques are now part of the Antwerp online shopping guide and I gladly share these venues here with you too.

Not many people think of Liège as a city trip destination, meaning they miss out on the variety of things the ‘Cité ardente’ has to offer! Admittedly the city’s skyline isn’t the most picturesque with its chaotic mix of random architectural styles, but this shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying Liège’s many attractive spots, as well as its charming historic center. And let’s not forget the Liégeois themselves! Known for their festive spirit, the people from Liège have a distinct warmth and kindness that you’ll surely feel in shops and restaurants.

Before visiting Munich - Germany’s third largest city - I wasn’t sure what to expect. I certainly wasn’t prepared for its royal grandeur and beauty inherited from its long history as capital of Bavaria! Breathtaking palaces, lavish gardens and fabulous museums make it an absolute must for culture lovers and aesthetes alike. But let’s not forget its contemporary character. With the best German designers living and working in Munich, the city is Germany’s undisputed capital of design, shining through its modernity and creativity. Add the fact that it’s clean, safe and packed with shopping possibilities and you’ll easily understand why Munich is definite city trip material!

Vienna is known for being one of the cities with the best quality of living in the world and after spending three days in the Austrian capital I have no difficulty understanding why. But then again, Vienna has everything to please an aesthete like me: glorious architecture, historic palaces, elegant cafés… Vienna is pure beauty. Yet the city doesn’t feel sleepy and features also a fair amount of trendy places for hipsters to enjoy. In other words, Vienna is classic with just the right amount of modernity!

Amsterdam is one of the most photogenic cities in the world and that’s probably the main reason why I love it and keep coming back to it. With its historic canals and picturesque townhouses it feels like a living postcard… which also explains why it is so popular! I read somewhere that the city is flooded with tourists (much like Venice), so recently I preferred to keep a distance. But if you haven’t been yet or if you want to know my take on Amsterdam, here are the essentials according to Gerrit and the City.