Stephanie is a girl that loves to travel, experience new things and gets a buzz from businesses and making them work…a (very) kindred spirit.  She has worked in e commerce for some of my favourite luxury brands including,  Bloomingdale’s, Space NK Apothecary, and Aspinal of London and now runs her own business, Vora Coaching, coaching corporate clients and individuals. If there was such a thing as a double first in the art of positive thinking, Stephanie would be first in line! Before I hand over to Stephanie, i just wanted to mention one of the quotes from her website that rings so true for me (for today at least!) : “Energy and persistence conquer all things.” - Benjamin Franklin 

 

  To me, Brugge oozes charm, romance and that fairy tale feel. Whether it be spring, summer or winter (although my favourite time to visit is during December for the annual Christmas Market), it always makes me smile. From the beautiful and grand Market Square doused with colourful buildings and historic landmarks, the cobbled streets that make you feel like you are in a different time period, to the picturesque canals that run through the city (a canal boat tour is worthwhile), it is hard not to fall in love with Brugge. In fact one of the main attractions is Lake Minnewater , the “Lake of Love” – that says it all.

Hotel: My absolute favourite hotel is The Prinsenhof  . This cute and charming boutique hotel situated off a side street takes things to the next level. Each room is decorated differently and is so welcoming after a long day of sightseeing and dining! The Jacuzzi tubs are to die for and what makes this place so special is during Christmas they decorate the main lounge with more decorations than the room can handle. The coziness makes me feel right at home.

Beer and Chocolate: I actually have never liked the taste of beer until I came to Belgium. My favourite is actually one of the few beers made in Brugge– Brugge Tripel . For a great local beer experience either try the local brew from De Halve Maan (you can also take a tour)or go to our favorite beer house Café t’Brugs Beertje and ask for help choosing from their 300 Belgium beers.

Dining: Passage which is Kevin’s secret dining place serves the best Waterzooi and Ribs in all of Brugge. It’s actually a hostel that he stayed at when travelling abroad in his early twenties and 12 years later the food is as good as it was on his first visit. With large portions , a quaint and romantic lounge like feel , delicious beers and incredibly affordable prices you can’t go wrong. Den Dyver: For those of you who appreciate a food and wine pairing at dinner, try it with a twist. Den Dyver, while has fantastic food/wine pairings is best known for their beer and food pairings on their prix fixe menu. One of the best aperitifs I have ever had was their hops royal (similar to a Kir Royale). This is a restaurant you to go for delicious food and when you want to impress. Shopping – You won’t be void of shopping at the many fashion forward shops there. Shoes shoes and more shoes.. I never come back without a new pair. If fashion is your thing then take a day trip to Antwerp – the trendy boutiques, the up and coming designers and unbelievable prices .. what can I say except make sure to bring an empty suitcase! So there you have it. I can’t wait to go back again and if you want any suggestions at all please feel free to email me directly!