Downtown Biel

So I went downtown Ami dropped me off, told when she would be back and where to meet her. I had no way to get in touch and no idea where I was going but I was not to worried. I was excited to be out exploring. There are lots of shops and restaurants, lots of benches and people to watch and a beautiful river (which I didn't have time for but there is always tomorrow). I found lots I wanted as I shopped around but it was hard not to be drawn to the familiar stores and styles and then I would just think to myself I can get that cheaper at home. Not only that but it is so hard to spend my money now when I have no idea what other opportunities and things I will want to do and buy.. so I am practicing self-control (trying). I bought three things on my outing two of which were for Gage's birthday (which is tomorrow) and for me a headband that was 4.90 CHF or franks. I believe 1 franks is = to about $1.20. So the dollar is better here however most of Europe uses euros which its like $1.40 for 1 euro ..not so good.
Anyway I had fun roaming around. I didn't talk to to many people so as to not give away my identity. I was surprised at the similar styles and things, I was expecting more obvious differences.
One major difference is the people ride their bike or mopeds, walk or take the train or bus everywhere and I love that.. young, old, warm ,cold doesnt matter. Even children walk to school and home and its mandatory they walk by themselves no parents allowed. Time here is different too they go by military time, I had to suck it up and ask someone what time it was well I was out. Almost nothing is open on Sundays. Things here are slower paced, McDonald's does not open until 10am.
All the women were fashionable leather boots.. I love them all. The music in the stores is in English..which is kind of wierd. They have McDonald's (of course), Clarie's, H&M, curves lol, and Starbucks that I have noticed so far. I am hoping that's not all they associate with America, actually I think we stole H&M.. which is probably the best of the above. They have a store here called the New Yorker I didnt go in .. its was tempting. It was calling my name I felt like such a foreigner out there. I was trying to take pictures without people noticing haha. But if they didnt notice that they probably noticed that I was walking in circles trying to get my bearings and sometimes I just turned right back around lol. Oh well what can ya do. I am going back Thursday.. I am sure I will be a pro by Dec.