Old Scheldt-Kluisbergen

It's not just on the price list – one euro for a pint – that time has stood still in café De Oude Schelde. The interior of the working-class pub on an old arm of the Scheldt in Kluisbergen also exudes the homely cosiness of yesteryear. At 74 years old, Monique Speleers is one of the oldest café ladies in our province. "This is my home," she says, beaming. "The café has been in family hands since 1899. After my mother's death, I took over the business. Young and old come here every day. And during the summer, quite a few cyclists are tempted by the terrace. I only close the doors on Thursdays. Then I rest and slide my legs under the table somewhere." The chance that café De Oude Schelde will remain in the family is small. Monique has a son, but he doesn't want to follow in his mother's footsteps. "But I'm not thinking about that yet," says Monique. "Being among people: that's what counts for me."

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