Carolien reveals her favorite hotel in Maastricht

Every time I enter Maastricht, it feels a bit like coming home: I had the privilege of living there for my studies for four years. Although I often cursed having to head back south after the weekend, that feeling disappeared as soon as I walked into that beautiful city again. Now, nine years later, I find it a joy to travel to Maastricht with my two men for a weekend of ‘foreign country in our own land’. Because that's how it always feels. And even though I thought I knew the city well, so many new, fun spots have emerged in the meantime, like hotel Monastère, right in the city center and located in an old monastery. As the daughter of an antique dealer, I find the combination of classic, authentic elements and design always beautiful (we have a cast floor at home combined with antique elements, love it). If you're looking for a weekend getaway in your own country this autumn, this beautiful hotel in Maastricht is an absolute recommendation: you're just around the corner from the gigantic Christmas market. Truly a recommendation.

Now there had to be a bit of work done, but fortunately, it absolutely didn't feel that way: Together with Longines, we got to go to Jumping Indoor Maastricht, which for Otis is about equivalent to paradise: countless ‘parties’ that jump, dance, and put on a beautiful show. It almost went wrong when he wanted to ride on a 30K artwork, but otherwise, he enjoyed all the competitions and the spectacle on the edge of his seat. And of course, we also had to spot some watches, which is absolutely no punishment.

By now, there is a room spray or scented candle in every room at home, especially during the winter months, I am extremely sensitive to nice scents in the house. So when I received a message about laundry perfume, I was immediately triggered: Rosaodor gives your laundry an extra long scent sensation and smells like a luxury perfume. And I must say: your clothes really smell different than with regular fabric softener. The perfume is more intense and lasts longer in your clothes. That saves a few sprays per day: I can now just stick my nose in my own sweater.

I might be one of the few, but if you haven't been to museum Voorlinden yet: it is an absolute must-visit. At the beautiful estate Voorlinden in Wassenaar, you will find a stunning museum full of contemporary and modern art. I must say that I find it incredibly nice when art is approachable, and that is absolutely the case here: definitely a recommendation to take your kids along. My favorites: the lifelike old couple under a parasol and the ‘magical’ swimming pool.