Last morning in Bruges - return to Brussels

They say that walking half an hour a day will result in weight loss. Well, I have been walking about 4 hours a day for the last four weeks and as far as I can tell, it hasn't made a scrap of difference. And before anyone suggests that I might be overindulging in continental food and wine, I can assure you that not one drop of alcohol has passed my lips (except for a couple of half pint shandy's) and I am only eating two meals a day. Breakfast (late) and dinner (early). It's not fair, I truly thought that my clothes would become loose on this holiday.

Anyway, went in search of a post office this morning and found myself in a district where the locals shop. My goodness, what a difference to the other side of Main Street.

I came across some men who were removing furniture from an apartment on the second floor of a building. They have this nifty lift thingy with a platform on it. One of the men told me that it will reach up five levels which is about as high as the buildings get here in Bruges.

Then I found a motor bike shop. They have some pretty groovy scooters here and around the corner I found a bicycle shop. Most of the bikes were electric and surprisingly, about the same price as the scooters. I know which one I'd be purchasing.

Noticed a nice looking mens and womens clothing store, kind of like a mini department store. Decided to check it out and spotted a lovely bay window in the back wall of the shop overlooking a beautifully manicured courtyard garden. Upon enquiry I learned that there was also residential accommodation in the building.

Chatted with the owner of a wine bar. He sells a selection of wines straight from the barrel. They are all Italian wines.

Caught an early afternoon train to Brussels. Got off at the wrong station. Big workers strike/demonstration closing the streets. Raining. Couldn't get a taxi to the hotel. Returned to the station to try and find the Meto. Got lost in the station. A policeman said the demonstration was over and I should be able to get a taxi. Eventually convinced a driver to bring me to the hotel, had a nice shower and am now waiting for Johnny to arrive from the airport.