Hannah Rees-Middleton

Ghent has a lot of cool places to shop and sip. Twiggy is one of them. If you are looking for interesting pieces to fill your wardrobe, you must visit this absolute gem. Not only are they masters of impeccable styling but the store offers a wide collection of not so easy to find brands and pieces. Very laidback and extremely hip. 

If we're ever longing for a taste of France (and frankly when are we not) we head straight to Bistro Mirabelle. The bistrot classics may be scribbled on a chalkboard but the food is nothing short of perfection. Tuck in to the daube d'aubergine topped with panisse, the pavlova Mirabelle to finish, with some top-notch wines alongside. 

De Superette is a pizzeria that makes spectacular entrees and even better wood-fired pizzas. Think stracciatella, pistachio, olives, honey, San Daniele ham, pecorino crème. The finest ingredients are smothered in a perfect light dough. After dinner, get a fresh loaf for a guaranteed heavenly week of breakfasts. 

Jigger’s is a heavenly cocktail bar that will make you completely indecisive about which signature drink to get. They are original, classy and inspired by seasons and themes. This splendid spot is immaculate for a chic night out in the city. 

Trust us, you will certainly have a remarkable fine dining experience in Restaurant Publiek. Although it has a Michelin-star restaurant, it is not the typical high-end establishment. Publiek is all about closeness and simplicity. Chef Olly Ceulenaere's purpose is to create the most fun and exquisite combinations of locally sourced and ordinary ingredients. Live it up with the constantly innovative menu, good company and a glass of natural wine to have an unparalleled evening. 

In an old building, you will now find the cool concept of DOK. A brewery, a bar, a restaurant and a laid-back hanging-out spot. A treat for beer fanatics and those who like trying artisanal beers, lagers, IPAs, and sour or dark brews. Besides their niche but excellent selection of beers, they are famous for their barbecue dishes and burgers. If you want to take a step further as a true beer lover, join their beer-tasting tours for a delightful and fizzy afternoon.

Situated between the Parc des Buttes Chaumont and the Père Lachaise Cemetery, the Parc de Belleville is yet another of the 20th arrondissements hidden gems. The highest point of the park reaches 108 metres where a terrific, panoramic terrace boasts unblocked views across to the Eiffel Tower. The gardens themselves are dotted with fountains, maze-like staircases, bundles of flowers and patches of grass to perch. 

It's hard to keep up with the number of bakeries in Paris. In fact it's near impossible. Though, if there's one that should be on the list it's RONNIE. From coffee to viennoiseries, sandwiches to pastries, the options are endless. 

Chances are if you ask any resident in the general vicinity of FAUNA, they've heard of it. This coffee spot is just about one of the most chatted about in Paris. And why? It's simple. They serve a terrific coffee. 

Tucked behind some grand façade, through a green-filled courtyard and through some sliding glass doors is the relaxing haven that is Spa Clemens. Here, the massages are all water-based. So pop on your swimmers and prepare for a 50-minute indulgence.