Eilandje: Antwerp's Maritime Gem

• HelloHallo
  [ha-loh]
• GoodbyeTot ziens
  [tot zeens]
• YesJa
  [ya]
• NoNee
  [nee]
• Please/You're welcomeAlstublieft
  [al-stu-bleeft]
• Thank youDank u
  [dank oo]
• Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [so-ree]
• How are you?Hoe gaat het met u?
  [ho-uh gat het met oo]
• Fine. And you?Goed. En met u?
  [khoot. en met oo]
• Do you speak English?Spreekt u Engels?
  [sprekt oo engels]
• I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ik buh-grayp het neet]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMag ik de menukaart zien, alstublieft
  [mag ik de me-nu-kart seen, al-stu-bleeft]
• I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ik eet khayn vlays]
• Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIk wil graag betalen, alstublieft
  [ik vil khraakh buh-ta-len, al-stu-bleeft]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Ga weg!
  [ga vekh]
• Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [bel de po-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [bel ayn dok-ter]
• I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ik ben fer-dwahlt]
• I'm illIk ben ziek
  [ik ben zeek]

• I'd like to buy...Ik zou graag kopen...
  [ik zow khraakh koh-pen]
• I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar
  [ik kayk al-leen maar]
• How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [hoo-val kost het]
• That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [dat is tuh dyoor]
• Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?
  [kunt oo de prees fuh-rah-ghen]

• What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [hoo laht is het]
• It's one o'clockHet is een uur
  [het is ayn oor]
• Half past (10)Half tien
  [half teen]
• MorningOchtend
  [ohkhtend]
• AfternoonMiddag
  [mid-dahkh]
• EveningAvond
  [ah-vohnt]
• YesterdayGisteren
  [khis-ter-en]
• TodayVandaag
  [fan-dahkh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [mor-khen]
• 1Een
  [ayn]
• 2Twee
  [tvay]
• 3Drie
  [dree]
• 4Vier
  [veer]
• 5Vijf
  [vayf]
• 6Zes
  [zehs]
• 7Zeven
  [zay-ven]
• 8Acht
  [ahkht]
• 9Negen
  [nay-khen]
• 10Tien
  [teen]

• Where's a/the...?Waar is de...?
  [var is de]
• What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [vat is het ah-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u mij laten zien (op de kaart)?
  [kunt oo may lah-ten zeen (op de kart)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [ven-ner is de vol-hen-de (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Een ticket (naar ....)
  [ayn ticket (nar)]

Eilandje, meaning 'little island', emerged in the 16th century as a significant harbor area linked to the city's port activities. The neighborhood developed on land reclaimed from the River Scheldt, which facilitated Antwerp's growth as a trading hub during the Renaissance. It played a crucial role in the shipping and trade routes that connected Europe with the rest of the world.

During the 16th century, Antwerp's economy flourished, largely due to its strategic port. Eilandje became a bustling center for maritime commerce, with warehouses and shipyards dotting the landscape. This period saw the establishment of the East India Company, which further boosted trade, bringing exotic goods and cultural influences into the neighborhood.

The 19th century marked a turning point for Eilandje with the onset of industrialization. The docks expanded, and new industries emerged, transforming the area into a hub of economic activity. This industrial boom attracted a surge of workers and immigrants, leading to a diverse community that contributed to the cultural fabric of Antwerp.

By the mid-20th century, the port of Antwerp began to modernize and relocate operations, leading to a decline in Eilandje's commercial prominence. The area experienced urban decay, with many warehouses falling into disrepair. This decline reflected broader trends in the region as the maritime industry shifted towards larger, more efficient facilities.

In the early 21st century, Eilandje underwent significant regeneration, transforming it into a vibrant cultural and residential neighborhood. The opening of the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) in 2011 marked a pivotal moment, showcasing the history of Antwerp and its connection to global trade. Today, Eilandje is characterized by a blend of historic architecture and modern developments, reflecting its rich heritage and dynamic future.

Eilandje is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Antwerp. From the Antwerp Central Station, you can take tram line 7 or 8 towards the city center and get off at the 'Meir' stop. From there, it's a short walk to Eilandje. Alternatively, bus lines 13 and 21 also connect to Eilandje from various neighborhoods. If you prefer cycling, the city has an extensive bike rental scheme, making it a pleasant ride to Eilandje.

Eilandje is compact and best explored on foot or by bicycle. Public transport options include trams and buses, with several stops located conveniently throughout the area. Bicycle rentals are available, and there are dedicated bike lanes. For those who prefer taxis, ride-sharing services are also operational in Antwerp.

Eilandje is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, like in any urban area, it's important to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in tourist-heavy areas, so stay alert and be cautious near the waterfront.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Local police stations and hospitals are available in Antwerp. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, you can find pharmacies around Eilandje that offer over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably for walking and exploring, but avoid overly casual attire when dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially near religious sites. Public Transport: Do keep your ticket handy and validate it before boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'hallo' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Belgian waffles and beers. Don't waste food; it's considered disrespectful.

To experience Eilandje like a local, visit the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) for cultural insights and stunning views from the rooftop. Explore the waterfront area, where you can find lively bars and restaurants. Attend local events and markets, especially during the summer months. Engage with locals, as they are often eager to share their favorite spots and hidden gems in the neighborhood.