I park the van on the banks of the Meuse. The night in the van was cold, and even during the day, the cold feels paralyzing. Parking in the city doesn’t make sense because the high parking fees are in no way proportional to the income I might make from busking today.
In Liège, you’re technically required by law to get a permit from the city to perform street music. I decided to try without a permit—I simply don’t feel like applying for 15 licenses in different languages on my way to Lisbon. After a long walk, I find a nice spot right in front of City Hall. I don’t expect much from the passersby; Liège doesn’t strike me as a wealthy city.
Surprisingly, my music is well-received here. People on the square stop to listen, and some even sing along. The police turn a blind eye, and I’m even invited to enjoy a few Belgian beers.