Antwerp, Belgium

 No tour for us today as a long-time friend (since 1977) lives here and we met with him instead.  Wouter met us at the ship and we walked a bit and had a coffee in a nearby square before heading off to his home for a visit and lunch.  This delightful piece of art was in the square near the cathedral.

"Nello & Patrache,  based on a Flemish children's story

Wouter and his wife, Goedele, live just outside of Antwerp in one of the most beautiful homes we've ever seen.  They built it 10 years ago in a neighborhood full of trees and a park just across the street.  It is beautifully traditional in appearance, but has an underground parking garage in addition to the separate building that houses Wouter's 3 classic cars and his home office on the ground floor, with a full swimming pool above!  The home has all of the most modern conveniences but still feels very homey.  The weather was perfect so we were able to have a wonderful lunch of barbecued tiger shrimp, salads, and fingerling potatoes in their park-like yard.  It was a most relaxing time spent with good friends.  

This building right outside the ship's pier is very peculiar.  It looks as though it's from 3 different time periods, and in fact, it is.  The newer parts were added between 2016-2021   "The Steen" is now a tourist reception and visitor center.

This is the cathedral's spire as seen from the ship, and behind other buildings.  Amazing detail.

We were sent off by a local band that was enthusiastic if not talented.  Then our usual cocktail before a nice dinner for 2 at Compass Rose. There was no show, just a movie tonight, perhaps because the singer is still ill.  We returned to the cabin for a little TV.  Don't think I mentioned that there are only about 320 passengers on this segment.