Around the World | Art + Design | Books | Food | Musings | Photography

Here is where I record my thoughts and experiences, most of which are from my time abroad and travels. Where I share and exchange insights on off-the-beaten-path destinations and translated literature. Where I discuss photography and societal observations.
Latest Stories
Once upon a time, Ghent was the largest city in Europe after Paris. This was during the 13th century. Due to its favourable location – at the confluence of the Leie and Scheldt rivers – Ghent was a prosperous city and prominent trade centre during the Middle Ages. For instance, during the 15th century, it was…

For most of my student life, I was relatively relaxed about schoolwork and exams compared to my peers. I didn’t understand why my classmates were stressed with getting good grades. The only time I was stressed at school was when I was 17, at the end of my first year in junior college, when I spectacularly failed my…

My family came to visit me in Belgium earlier this month. It was great to spend time with my parents and my younger sister. It was fun discovering some parts of this country, especially Brussels, together with them. Though I probably ate my fill of frites (fries) for the next three months and drank more…

Belgian chocolate is reputed to be amongst the best in the world – the domestic consumption is one of the highest worldwide, as is its chocolate export trade. When I first moved to Brussels, I was a little disappointed that there wasn’t an artisan chocolatier at every other street corner. Large commercial brands such as Godiva, Neuhaus and Leonidas don’t…

For one weekend a year, the public is invited to visit and discover Brussels’ historic monuments and city landmarks through guided tours and walks. Titled Journées du Patrimoine / Heritage Days, this annual event usually takes place on the last weekend of September. I had missed the Journées du Patrimoine in previous years as I wasn’t in town. So even…
