“Taking some time off now and then is the essence of being a woman.”

For International Women’s Day, we wanted to find out what brings our female guests to Maasmechelen Village. A short search in the Village led us to Melissa and Nora. They told us all about mother-daughter love, taking time for yourself and what it really means to be a woman. And about why they love shopping at the Village, of course.

Melissa and Nora came all the way from Bruges for their visit, but the distance does not bother them. “If you ask us, Maasmechelen Village is the perfect day out. We do not live close by, but that is not an issue. On the contrary: it is the perfect excuse for us to combine our day of shopping with an overnight stay at the Terhills Hotel!” The mother and daughter duo often go out together. “Every once in a while, we leave my husband and son at home and we go out shopping, we go see a film or we dine out. In Maasmechelen Village, we can combine all of these activities! For today, we have planned an entire day of shopping. And food, of course. With the amazing restaurants on offer, it will not be easy to decide!”

For Melissa and Nora, the unique appeal of Maasmechelen Village is partly due to the events and facilities. One of the things they remember from their last visit is the connection they had with the make-up artists during Beauty Weekend. “We really enjoyed the workshops and treatments. We had our photo taken in the Photo Studio. In fact, we still have it on our fridge today! Also, we followed the make-up artists on Instagram – a great way to stay in touch!” In order to relive the relaxing atmosphere of Beauty Weekend, Melissa and Nora now visited the Elaisa Wellness in the middle of the national park near the Village. “The location of Elaisa is one of a kind. The view of the national park is breath-taking and incredibly relaxing. We thoroughly enjoyed the many sauna options and other facilities. A day to remember!”

With her busy schedule, a day of shopping at Maasmechelen Village is a real treat for Melissa. When we ask her about what being a woman means to her, she reflects on the importance of claiming that quality time. “It is not always easy to find a balance between being a mother and being a woman. I try to let my children do their own thing, and to also take moments for myself. For me, that is what being a woman is all about. Really enjoying myself and being able to do whatever I feel like. Which could be shopping, with Nora or friends, or a ride on my motorcycle. That feeling of freedom and power – that, too, is what womanhood is all about.”