Brussels: Shut down?

August is no doubt the month when most Brussels folk choose to go on vacation - spending a couple of weeks in the countryside or taking advantage of the competitive market for air travel to go abroad, for instance.

That's alright - everyone has the right to a break (within reason). However, we are moved to ask if the entire of Brussels has gone away recently? Dealing with EU issues, it can be a touch

frustrating if everyone you try and get hold of is out of the office.

Some days, it can feel like trying to catch someone at their desks in Brussels is like expecting EU leaders to learn how to take No for an answer.

(clue: it won't happen)