Antwerpen etc.

On Tuesday I decided to take a day trip to the last unexplored Flemish city on my map. After a quick hour and a bit on the train I arrived to a newly renovated Antwerp central station. With three levels of trains, it is quite the sight and marvel of engineering. The station set the tone for my visit in this port city. Antwerp is known as a business center and traditionally served as a barge shipping destination due to its location along the wide banks of the Schelde. Antwerp reminds me more of Holland than other Flemish cities with its mix of modern and old as well as the extensive bicycle lane and path network even in the bustle of the city center.
With only a camera and a few Euros in the pocket I made a day of wandering along a route which included the Meir shopping street, several quiet squares, the banks of the Schelde, a couple of cathedrals, a baguette and an ice cream.
It was a pleasant outing and you can see the best of it here.
Yesterday I had the good fortune of working as team mechanic for Pictoflex-Hyundai at a pro race in Geraardsbergen. Just as with last weeks race in Erpe-Mere my duties included preparing the spare bikes and wheels, sitting the in back of the team car during the race ready to jump out and change wheels when needed, pay attention to the race radio and alert the director as to the composition of the breakaway and our riders. After the race I got to drive the team van through Brussels back to home. I love driving in this country, and Brussels in the late evening is a magical place.
This evening is my last in Belgium for this time around. One more evening in the Sportzone, but never fear I will be back...