LEUVEN

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We have now left beautiful Barcelona, and will have wonderful memories of it forever. Our hotel there, the Expo, was not a 5 star but it certainly was very, very central to shops, restaurants, and importantly, the train lines. Our last day in Barcelona was extremely memorable as we took a train trip to Montserrat. Before we arrived at the station to exit for the cable car trip up the mountainside, we could see in the distance, the amazing mountainous structures around us, known as Montserrat, and perched literally on the side of the mountains was the monastery and behind that a hotel. The views from the top were exceptional. The trip up was great with fantastic views, but the trip back down in the cable car was hair-raising to say the least, as we seemed to literally drop off the side of the mountain. A big storm came across while waiting at the top, so the ride down was delayed to allow for the lightning and heavy rain to ease. I purchased a book on the area, as I was fascinated as to how they possibly built the place on a mountainside, and besides I wanted to know more of it's history and when the Benedictine Monks arrived there. Our last night in Barcelona was also great, as we went to a small bar which served meals. We had to try the Spanish famous dish, Paella. Carol shared a seafood variety with three other people, and Donald shared a meat variety with others. Carol also drank Sangria, and on coming back to the hotel room, had churros with a cup of tea. So Carol ticked all the boxes for trying the local specialities, and Donald all that he wanted to as well. So a great might was had.

This morning we had a very early 4.45 am start as we had to be on our bus for the airport by 6.00 am for a 9.00 am flight to Brussels. The hotel packed breakfasts for us in carry away boxes, do we all ate breakfast on the bus going to the airport. The flight to Brussels was uneventful, and we both slept for a good part of the flight. Must have been tired after a late night and early morning. We then boarded a team bus for Leuven, just a few kilometres out of Brussels, and the Ibis Hotel. We went off to find a cafe to eat lunch, and found a great bakery which served these delicious rolls, sausage rolls, delectable cakes and pastries, and coffee, and much more. Then we explored this very quaint town. The buildings are beautiful and some of them are extremely old. Some have been rebuilt, post war, and of special mention is the main cathedral which has been rebuilt after bring bombed in the war, and that rebuilding is still ongoing it seems. We went inside to have a look, and it is very beautiful and huge inside. The town hall is the most spectacular building in town and dates from the 1400's. it is of Gothic design and very ornate. So tonight, we are having a full team dinner which we are looking forward to. It was difficult to find a place to fit all 37 of our group, but we are booked into an Asian Restaurant. Today is a religious holiday, so all shops are closed, but not the cafes and bars, they seem to be doing a roaring trade. After we had a walk around the town earlier we sat in the main town square and had a beer with one of the other players. There were bands playing, and hundreds of people milling around and having a drink. We are told that tonight the streets will be packed with people out and about because of the special holiday. Hopefully we still get to have a good night's sleep! Tomorrow, it is back to hockey training for Donald in the morning, and a game later in the day is scheduled. Bye for now. Donald and Carol

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