And so it began… the beginning of our final excursion together as a group. So to Antwerp we went, and a glorious adventure it was. Upon arrival the rains poured down from above behind the backdrop of a chilly breeze and gloomy skies, as if the heavens were lamenting the end of our journey. But there was no time for nostalgia here, not while the day was still young and much to look forward to. This simple concept applies especially here, as looking back to reminisce would cause us to lose grasp of what is right there in front of us: this would most assuredly mean stumbling over the particularly rough cobblestone, tumbling down the 500 steps of the belfry stairway, going overboard on the sometimes turbulent boat tour, or falling behind in our mad dash to the train station.
Despite the pouring rains this day took on a rather celebratory tone, beginning with the sounds of “Mr. Sandman” from our carilloneur Geert d’Hollander. It was a hearty greeting to the wealth, glory, and industriousness of Antwerp. We were told that Antwerp is known to be the most beautiful city in all of the Low Countries. I quote from the reader that “every aspect of Flemish life is exemplified in Antwerp” ranging from riches, huge economic potential, love of art and literature, and baroque architecture. Antwerp certainly did not disappoint, in any of those regards. My only complaint about the city is that there is simply too much to see and not enough time of day to experience it all.
Our boat ride on The Flandria was much less oriented with the city of Antwerp, but at least what I got out of it was an introspective look at the group after our five weeks together. I saw it this way as Eva told me when we embarked, “We began with a boat tour and end with a boat tour.” It is amazing how close we have all become here in such a short amount of time. According to Nicole, last year’s group didn’t become so close until the final week or so; in contrast, we all seemed to get along well from the very start and our friendships have grown even stronger as time has progressed. There is no drama, no cliques, no resentment nor dislike (other than the fact that Professor Dewulf openly dislikes my earrings hahaha). I am very grateful to have been on such an experience, in three beautiful countries, through more than a dozen breathtaking cities, with 25 of the friendliest and most pleasant bunch of people I have ever been around.
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