Rode yesterday from Bruges to Aachen. A good run. Jumped off the highway in the Netherlands and rode around the scenic route. Must do this more often. Did a few hours walking the cobbled streets of Aachen, checking out cathedrals and taking it in. Bumped into a bloke I met in Bruges and guided him to the hostel where I am staying. Mike is a good bloke doing a similar route to me except on train. Met a nutty Jordy as well who is riding a push bike through Europe living on bad decisions and pot. Funny guy in every essence of the word. In the evening went for a wander with mike and had a few beers. Met a couple of local blokes out for Friday drinks. An absolute scream and they dragged us to a couple if pubs that sold the local drop. Including a schnapps that tasted the same as toilet cleaner smells. Repulsive. 2:30 finish but not too worse for wear this morn. Today I went for a quick ride and took in some if the local countryside and found a motorcycle shop where I dropped 200€ on an awesome pair of riding boots. Came back to the hostel and dumped the bike and went walking and finally bought a tent and sleeping bag. I'm sorted now. Had a nanna nap and have been relaxing over a few quiet beers looking at camp sites and routes to Dubrovnik to meet Sara in 6 days. That went quickly. 2 days in Aachen was about enough and am ready to move south. I plan on camping in the Black Forrest tomorrow. About a 400km ride. Should be able to do it comfortably. The riding will only get better from here in so hopefully I get a chance to ditch the panniers an see what this little bike can do. Aachen - worth spending a day or two. Looks like I am in for some clearer weather which will suite quite well for the alp crossing.