Catchy tunes, hot choco, road trip to the new decades, Leuven you made me laugh.

Last weekend of the nine ten, cruising to twenty twenty, under a blue sky. Countdown 500, hot choco in hand, minus 2 outside… Yes, it’s that time of the year again! The season of fresh starts, big dreams, and… well, breaking resolutions the very next day. But hey, it’s tradition, right? Cheers to another round of “this year will be different” – maybe this time, it actually will!

Locking nine ten in style .Woke up to the sweetest little pancake, drizzled with maple syrup, topped with banana slices—pure happiness on a plate. And where else but in my favorite city in the world, Leuven? A perfect start to the day, a perfect way to wrap up the year.

Leuven, a gem in Flemish Belgium, is a vibrant university town that truly comes to life during the academic year (September–June). With 35,000 students filling its streets, it’s home to the world’s oldest Catholic university, founded in 1425.

Beyond its rich history, Leuven’s stunning historic center makes it one of Belgium’s most beautiful cities. And while it thrives during the school year, summer brings its own magic with plenty of events to enjoy.

Best of all? It’s the perfect gateway to explore Belgium! Brussels is just around the corner, and in just 1.5 hours by train, you can find yourself strolling through Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent, or even along the coast.

So cosy old town with the food truck and lots of churches.

Staying in the historic old town is definitely a plus—because let’s be honest, driving in Belgian cities requires some real magician skills. Navigating those streets? A true adventure! There are plenty of jokes about Belgian driving, and, well… let’s just say, many of them are very accurate.

I swear, in Belgium, people must get their driver’s license by buying a pack of butter—because only God and the driver know where they’re actually going!

Martelaar plein (torturing square) the story back to the war time... i hate war, so if you wanna know more, wiki it.

All those beautiful gothic style architecture, so made my day. I love to watch it and in the past i would just schetched them , black and white , the might be come again.

The Ghotic style city hall of Leuven

is a landmark building on that city's Grote Markt (Main Market) square, across from the monumental St.Peter’s church , it is famous for its ornate architecture, crafted in lace-like detail.

Cosy flea market in front of St. Peter Church.

On my walk to Pater Damiaan church i bumped to this gate, brought me to beautiful alley towards another church, i totally forgot the name.

Leuven, Belgium, is the site of a shrine to Father Damien, one of the nineteenth century’s greatest humanitarians, who devoted his life to serving lepers in Hawaii.

i really admire Father Damiaan , his dedication and his fight against the leper, a beautiful soul, i am really sad the church is closed.

Another street art ...

Thirsty anybody?

The gate towards beautiful park and another church.

And so, the never-ending battle continues… The Dutchies vs. the Belgians, fighting over patat or frites—both claiming them as their own. But come on, kiddos, let’s call a truce and just enjoy the crispy goodness!

To close this beautiful and blessed year, I raise my ice-cold mojito , toast to all the memories, and say: See you next year, Leuven! Off to Brugge I go… adventure awaits

Leuven Dec 27th