So, on this UK trip I decided to head to Brussels for a day on Saturday the 19th to take an introductory course in International Arbitration, from the European Branch of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. ( http://www.ciarb-europeanbranch.com/training/Arbitration.html) I love the Euorostar – London to Brussels in just over 2 hours. Last year when I was training in Europe on longer rides, I opted for a business class seat. The accommodations were stellar – free beverages, snacks, wifi, a plug at your seat to stay charged up, and a spacious reclining seat! However, since this was a much shorter ride, I opted for standard class and it worked out just fine. I found I did not miss the wireless, nor any of amenities.

Brussels proved to be a bit chilly and wet, as I wandered around. It was my first trip there, so I felt obliged to eat mussels, frites and waffles; and to buy chocolate! did I mention a beer with the mussels?

The course brought together 7 of us ( only 3 lawyers) from France, Switzerland, Serbia, and German. With instructors from Scotland and Ireland we had quite a group. The course was very informative and challenging. But, as always, unlike in America — these types of sessions always include a full meal at the lunch break with plenty of wine as well. Since most of us were already committed to the concept of learning more about International Arbitration, it is likely we will continue as a group taking courses together over the next year.

As the world shrinks and people do business across borders, it is a field that is growing. It’s complexities are enormous. So a good solid training is mandatory.

I had a little time after class, so I did the fires with mayo thing. I found and visited Manneken Pis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manneken_Pis)

So, let’s get to Moses. To satisfy those who are curious about the field of International Arbitration – read on. For those, who aren’t — spare yourself!

Professor Margaret Moses, Loyola University Chicago School of Law, wrote “The Principles and Practice of International Arbitration” (Cambridge Press, 2008) a treatise which is given high praise and regard by practitioners world wide. I was fortunate enough to meet Margaret at an event a few years back in Chicago. So it was with great pride that I learned that this group of International scholars listed our own Professor Moses’ treatise as a book you need to have and study.

While in Oxford today, meeting with a colleague on a different matter, I was guided (after a proper pub meal at The Turf Tavern, a 13th century ale house, reputed to be the longest standing pub in England) to the renowned family owned Blackwell bookstore ( 50 Broad Street, Oxford). I did not browse all 3 miles of shelving to find it, but was amazed by the sheer size of the facility. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blackwell_UK) In a rather serendipitous manner, while unsuccessfully looking for a copy of “Keeping the Peace” by Kemp & Fry, I stumbled upon Professor Moses’ treatise and picked up a copy of her book.

It will always be a reminder of both my time in Brussels and a great day in Oxford as well.