Where should I avoid in Antwerp?

While Antwerp is generally a safe and cozy city, you should exercise caution, particularly at night, around areas like De Coninckplein, Sint-Jansplein, Stuivenberg, and parts of Borgerhout (especially near Diepestraat) due to drug-related activity and higher petty crime. Be aware of surroundings near the Central Station and in specific,, sometimes loud, student districts.

What is the problem with Antwerp?

Context: Antwerp's safety profile changes over time; by May 2024 the city's main issues were petty theft, occasional street-level drug dealing in specific pockets, and late-night alcohol-related disorder. Overall, with standard urban precautions most visitors and residents move freely without problems.

Is Antwerp dodgy?

Petty crime is far less prevalent in the Flemish cites of Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent than it is in Brussels. The historic centers of each, where tourists head to first, especially that of ever-thronged Bruges and Grote Markt in central Antwerp, are again places to watch your bags, pockets and phones.

What is the best area to stay in Antwerp?

The 7 Best Neighborhoods in Antwerp for Tourists

1. Historic Center. The Historic Center of Antwerp is where visitors spend most of their time, for good reason. ...
2. Theaterbuurt (Theater District) ...
3. Sint-Andries (St Andrew's District) ...
4. Central Station District. ...
5. Universiteitsbuurt (University District) ...
6. Het Zuid. ...
7. Eilandje.

Why are so many Jews in Antwerp?

At the end of the 1930s, Antwerp was the preferred destination for many of the Jews who chose to flee the rampant anti-Semitism in Nazi Germany. Historians estimate that there were about 35,000 Jews in the city on the eve of World War II. Many of them were foreigners, who did not have Belgian nationality.

How Can I Avoid Diamond Scams In Antwerp? - Exploring The Benelux

What is the 30% rule in Belgium?

Belgium's "30% tax ruling" refers to a special tax regime for expatriates and inpatriates, allowing employers to reimburse certain recurring relocation costs tax-free, generally up to 30% of gross remuneration, capped at €90,000 annually, plus other specific costs like school fees, replacing older schemes for many. This regime aims to attract international talent, exempting these allowances from tax and social security, with conditions like minimum salary thresholds (€75k for non-researchers) and a 5-year duration (extendable).

Which is nicer, Brussels or Antwerp?

Brussels has a more international feel - it's common to meet people from across Europe and beyond. Antwerp feels more local and authentic, especially in neighbourhood cafés and markets. You'll probably hear less English outside the tourist areas, but locals are friendly and happy to help.

What is the name of the red light district in Antwerp?

In Antwerp, prostitution is only permitted in the area bounded by Verversrui, Vingerlingstraat and Schippersstraat, in an area known locally as Schipperskwartier (sailors' quarter).

What food is Antwerp known for?

What to eat and drink in Antwerp:

• Frites and friteries. The Belgian chip is basically 'French Fry' in style, thin, golden and crispy dunked in mayonnaise, rather than thick and soggy with malt vinegar like British chips. ...
• Croquettes. ...
• Moules frites and fish n chips. ...
• Beer. ...
• Vegetarian. ...
• Chocolates. ...
• Advocaat.

Should I skip Antwerp?

So you can already guess my answer to this question: yes, Antwerp is absolutely worth visiting.

Is Antwerp English friendly?

The French culture of the capital is not replicated in Antwerp — although this is not to say that its residents do not speak French. As half of the population speaks at least three foreign languages, you will definitely be able to get by with Dutch or English, and French will also be understood.

What is the most common STD in Belgium?

CHLAMYDIA. Chlamydia, caused by the bacterium "Chlamydia trachomatis", is the most frequently detected sexually transmitted infection in Belgium, and the number of cases continues to rise.

Is it better to visit Bruges or Antwerp?

Bruges is famous for its fairytale feel, canals and picturesque old town. Antwerp on the other hand is famous for its port, diamonds and historic city centre. Each city oozes character and charm but both give visitors different experiences of Belgian life.

What is Belgium's weakness?

Inflation remains a major concern for Belgian businesses, despite being given less emphasis in the global report. Van Calster warned that increased government spending on defence could strain Belgium's social model, exacerbating economic insecurity.

What is the prettiest town in Belgium?

❣️Bruges is the most beautiful city in Belgium. When you come to Bruges, you will be attracted by its long history. There are many ancient buildings and charming streets here.

Why do so many Jews live in Antwerp?

A new group of Jewish immigrants started to settle in Antwerp in the early 16th century, when the city became a relatively safe haven for crypto-Jews fleeing the persecutions and the expulsions in the Iberian Peninsula.

Can I retire to Belgium from the UK?

Visa and residence permits for retirees

If you plan to retire in Belgium as a non-EU citizen, you'll need to apply for a Type D long-stay visa, which allows you to stay for more than 90 days. It's intended for people who can support themselves financially without employment.

Is 3000 euro a good salary in Belgium?

It's a nice amount, but it's important to understand what you can do with it and how far it goes. It's also good to know that this amount can vary depending on your personal situation, such as your place of residence, family composition, and lifestyle.

What changes in Belgium on 1 July 2025?

Among these labor law reforms, it had been announced that — since 1 July 2025 — employers are no longer required to pay the regular employer social security contributions on the portion of an employee's salary that exceeds a quarterly threshold.

Can Jews wear tampons?

While there are probably smaller sub-communities that may frown on the use of tampons because of the antiquated idea that they compromise virginity, the vast majority of Jewish people with periods can use whatever period products feel best for them (phew!).

What is the 7 7 7 rule in marriage?

The 777 rule for marriage is a relationship guideline focusing on intentional quality time: a date night every 7 days, a night away (staycation/getaway) every 7 weeks, and a longer romantic holiday every 7 months, designed to keep intimacy and connection strong amidst daily life. It's a structured way to ensure partners prioritize each other with consistent, dedicated moments for fun, play, and deeper bonding, preventing relationships from slipping into routine. 

Do orthodox Jews shower every day?

Washing and toilet

Some Orthodox Jews do not bathe or shower during major festivals or Shabbat and some men prefer to be bearded or will only use an electric razor (a modern circumvention of a ruling against shaving).