Delayed trains, yes please

[Andy Hamilton]

I have stated on here before that I am going to do my best not to fly. Well trying to be a man of my word I have just got back from an extended weekend in Berlin and got there by train.

Had a great time and there are a few stories about the trip which I am sure will filter through on here over time.

The train on the way was fine despite nearly missing the eurostar. However the uber punctual German train from Berlin to Cologne was delayed by 40 mins. This meant we missed the train from Cologne to Brussels and got on the one an hour later than we should. This then meant that we missed the last Eurostar from Brussels to London and were essentially stranded.

This might sound like a bad situation, but it was actually a great situation to be in. Apparently there is an international agreement between European train companies stating that if you miss an international train they will pay for a hotel room for you for the night. Myself and the mate I was traveling with (Emma flew) both had 40 euros left each and I have never seen Brussels except for passing through it.

We had a good meal then hit the bars we found one pub that sold over 2000 different beers So despite feeling pretty ropey today I am pretty happy that we missed the train.

So heres to delayed trains, may I miss a connection again.

[Muddypause]

I have never seen Brussels except for passing through it.

We had a good meal then hit the bars

So you still haven't seen Brussels, then.

[ina]

From what I've seen of Brussels, you haven't missed much... But then, I'm not into cities anyway.

[Wombat]

We saw bugger all of Brussels, just the airport!

Nev

[Millymollymandy]

But he had a good time and got home safe and sound! Glad you had a nice trip Andy and welcome home.

[Andy Hamilton]

ah yes, did see more of the inside of Bars than sightseeing in Brussels. Although one of the places we drank in was on the main square. It seems to me that Brussels would be ok for a weekend break, not sure what else there would be to do after that.

Berlin on the other hand I could spend a lifetime in. There is so much going on there. Last time I went I got a real feel for it and thought "I could live here" That was after only seeing West Berlin, this time we stayed in the East and it is like being in a totally different city. This solidified my thoughts of moving one day. Still it is a big move, but within the next 5-10 years I might well move there.

[ina]

Still it is a big move, but within the next 5-10 years I might well move there.

Need some German lessons?

There's a lot going on in that area with local food, organics etc. Some huge, very industrial farms, too...