All that glitters … can be found in Antwerp, by those in search of a romantic city break to celebrate that special day. What better way to show you care than by arranging a trip to the global centre of the diamond trading industry. You can wander through the city’s historic streets, browse the many shopping malls, relax in the lovely parks or stroll along the River Scheldt.

Antwerp sparkles by day and night and as the sun sets you will be attracted by many intimate restaurants, bars, clubs and hotels.

To complete your St Valentine’s Day trip in style then visit Diamondland, the city’s largest diamond showroom, where you can see diamond polishers and setters at work before visiting the shop to choose the jewel of your dreams. www.diamondland.be

Published in A-way, the magazine for international families in Belgium January/February 2008

For any lover high on romance, but low on cash ( and who isn’t just after Christmas ) here’s some great news. Antwerp - Europe’s diamond capital can bring a sparkle to any Valentine’s proposal, save you money, and it won’t cost a heart-sinking load to get there either.

Surprisingly the figures really do stack up. Eurolines relaxing daily coach service will get you there for £58 return and, whilst the expert craftsmen make your ring, you get to stay overnight for free at a Four Star Hotel courtesy of Diamondland.

Of course romance and being canny with your cash don’t necessarily go together, but this is a deal that is light on the wallet and very big hearted at the same time. A truly unforgettable Valentine’s proposal experience.

So whilst everyone thinks Paris is for lovers, Antwerp really has a far stronger claim. For centuries been the centre of the world’s diamond trade and you could say helping people get engaged is really part of what makes the city tick. That’s why the best diamonds are often called ‘Antwerp quality’ and ‘Antwerp Cut’. So whilst you make a little go a long way, you’ll still be buying the best.

You can find out how to make your Diamondland Engagement Booking at Diamondland.be. They’ll book you into one of the city’s best hotels and arrange for a visit to choose your ring.

Eurolines service is a direct service from the heart of London to the heart of Antwerp relaxing all the way. Booking is easy at Eurolines.co.uk.

Published on Easier Travel - www.easier.com - January 21st 2008

Hi Nadine/Guy,FYI:  My total cost including Norwegian VAT, handmade ring etc was approx. USD 15 000,- The replacement value of a similar ring (in Norway) is approx. USD 20 000,-  Apparently, I have saved USD 5000,- by ordering the stone from Diamondland. You may say that I enjoyed a 25% discount compared to Norwegian prices. Most likely, I could have saved even more if I hadn’t spent USD 3000,- on a handmade ring. My total experience can be summarized as follows: 1) The stone was even more beautiful than I imagined, 2) the buying process was even more simple than I expected, 3) I saved more money than I could ever have dreamt of. 

Hello Sonja,

Happy New Year

Just a quick thank for all your help and assistance on the 28^th.You made a very difficult job easy and we both appreciated it.

Thank You.

David

Antwerp has been known as the Diamond City for more than 500 years. More than half the world’s cut diamonds are traded there and at the Diamondland showroom, on a working day, you can see diamond polishers and a goldsmith at work.

by John Wheatcroft