Planning on studying or interning in the capitol? Whether you’re embarking on this adventure solo or with friends, moving across states or countries, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll navigate you through everything you should know. From public transport, to the best hangout spots, shops worth visiting, the safest area’s, budget friendly grocery shopping, even the best getaways out of the city. Curated by me and my friends, international students who have worked, studied and lived in DC for three months. We’ve got your back. In this guide, you'll find 💭Know before you go: Essential information on moving to the city (groceries, know your way around the city, ...) 👩‍💻Research you could've done bundled (think transport, safety, ...) 🩵Tips & advice we learned the hard way ⛑️ Extra important information (+ safety tips) for international students 🧘‍♀️Tips for (solo) female travelers 🇺🇸Advice on culture shock in the US 🚌Getaways out of the city (one day trips + weekend trips + activities) 🐻Suggestions on where to spot wildlife in & out of the city 🌤Seasonal guide: best events throughout the entire year 🌳🚴‍♀️🤸‍♀️This guide also offers advice for people who want to connect with nature in and around the big city, as well as have an interest in outdoor sports such as biking and hiking. This guide might feel overwhelming, but I promise it's doable in three months. I know, because I did ;)

This list is just to get the essentials right! It feels like such a chore to always think about what I have to pack. That’s why I’ve made a list for myself with all the important stuff. I think it’s pretty universal for everyone who enjoys travelling. Feel free to copy + paste & adapt to your needs :)

Interested in visiting Brussels but eager to get away from overly touristy places? Antwerp's the place for you, baby. Flemish people love this authentic gem and often go for day trips to shop and get inspired by its rich history and culinary hotspots. In this itinerary I've bundled when to go, where to go, and how to go. Carefully curated for you by a local. This city trip skips overrated tourist traps and lays out a step-by-step weekend like the locals. 🚉✈️ How long is this trip? This itinerary is based on a three-day weekend, assuming you'll arrive on Friday evening and depart on Sunday. You can absolutely adapt this plan to a two-day stay, just make sure to read the advice I provide with my recommendations. This way you're in on best times for different activities. 🅰️ Why Antwerp? - historic port city with rich history - hotspot for gastronomic delights and lavish art - like Brussels, but without the tourist traps - home to one of the world's leading fashion academies and the internationally renowned Fashion Museum - authentic Flemish (European) experience - safe city (check out advice for female solo travelers below)