ALL ANTWERP. “Antwerp arrogance? Never forgotten anything” (Antwerp)
Every weekday our reporter and photographer pick a casual passer-by off the street for a nice conversation. Want everyone has a story. And certainly in Antwerp. Today: Esmee Hagenbeek (23).
“I live in Haarlem in the Netherlands, but had to take a break. That brought me to Antwerp. Enjoying the sun in this city with my best friend, that makes vaping. An original description is by no means, but the buildings are beautiful. The people are also so sweet and nice.”
“Antwerp arrogance? I have not forgotten anything about that. I experience a kind of way of speaking that is diametrically opposed to the Dutch state. We are loud and present, you more subdued and present, but that’s nice. It’s been a fun trip. We’ll be back soon, if the Flixbus doesn’t let us down.”
“And then it’s time for the daily routine again. I work with people with disabilities and guide them during their daytime activities. In a kind of lunchroom they cook and bake and are responsible for the service. I’ll be doing that for years, but don’t know if I’ll keep doing it forever.”
In between I regularly try to jump on my racing bike. Women’s cycling is more important in the Netherlands than anywhere else in the world, but I don’t really follow it. Cycling in the dunes is mainly to laugh and enjoy, and it should stay that way.” lava