Day 2: Paris

We stayed at the Novel, one block from the train station and easy access to catch our trail to Belgium later today.  We had a good night sleep and breakfast at the hotel.  Lots of meats and cheeses, along with lots of bakery!  Swedish pancakes wee on the buffet, however, not as good as my mom's!!  And my new favorite, Cappuccino!  Everyone is so relaxed and conversational.  Next table over were 5 Scottish men in kilts having their morning beer to get fired up for their country's game against France.  Drew and I considered going to the game, but it was cold, wet and rainy. The weather only hampered our walking tour, so we hopped on the Seine River Cruise to take us near most of the sites.  Since both of us have been here before, walking the Eiffel Tower was not imperative.  We enjoyed the cruise and then headed for a walk to Church of Notre Dame across the river.

Since this is winter and not a tourist season, lines were short and not to crowded.  Drew had purchased tickets earlier for Brussels, approximately a hour and a half speed train ride.  Comfortable seats and away we went.

Lueven:  we got to Brussels and caught the 20 minute train to Leuven.  It was dark, so not much to see.  We were both hungry.  First we went to Drew's apartment and then to my hotel, two blocks away.  I was staying at the Getaway.  Nice hotel with easy access to everything in Leuven.

We walked about 6 blocks to an eatery.  Drew had steaks and fries and I had the most delicious fish soup.  I also tried, and loved, a cherry beer, called Kriek.  Very tasty!  They had mussels on the menu, so we decided to book an 8:00 reservation for Valentines Day since restaurants were sure to be packed.  Drew dropped me off at the hotel and I fell asleep quickly, only to get up at 2:00 a.m. Due to jet lag!!  Uffda!!  Drew had to go to work on Monday and Tuesday, and I was going out exploring Leuven.