Well... Madrid has been a pleasant surprise to a wonderful ending. I was told before coming to Madrid that there isn´t a whole lot to do or see. Most people really just enjoy Barcelona and Seville (which are two of the places I really wanted to go). I decided not to do much of the museum scenes, since I´m a little burned out on those. So, I´ve just been laying low and walking around the city.
First, my hostel is in a wonderful location. It´s practically in the center of the city in a cute little neighborhood. It´s one of the nicer ones I´ve been in and has pretty comfortable beds (which was NOT the case in Greece)! It is about a 5 minute walk from my favorite place in the city (at least that I´ve seen). It is this really big park. It is absolutely beautiful. It is wonderfully landscaped and extremely clean. In fact, all of Madrid that I´ve seen is very clean. It´s probably the cleanest city I´ve been in since being over here.
I had so much fun at this park yesterday. It was filled with people everywhere. Friends, families, couples, and everything in between. Many people were entertaining the crowds. There were many different dancers (I took videos of a few with my camera). There were magicians, and just all sorts of people. I loved everything about it. I think the thing I liked about it most, is that people weren´t begging for money. They were simply entertaining just because they were having fun doing it. Every single city I´ve been in, it has been overwhelming how many people come up and ask for money. Like I owe them something? Not here. The culture is so relaxed and laid back. They enjoy each other, probably better than anywhere else I´ve seen. I wish it didn´t have to end.
Today has been a lot like my day yesterday. I´ve just been walking around looking at the city and absorbing every last thing I can before leaving. I went back to the park and spent a few hours there. I thought it was going to rain today, but the weather is actually perfect. Blue skies and in the mid 90´s.
My flight leaves tomorrow around 1pm here (which is 7am in Indiana). I have a layover in Dallas, and then will get into Indianapolis around 11pm. I´m excited to see everyone (and to just have my cell phone back... oh how I´ve missed it)!!! Back to reality, right?
Monday, June 15, 2009
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Saved the Best for Last
My time in Greece far exceeded my expectations. Jen and I walked A LOT!!! It seems we saw everything in the city that you could possibly see, multiple times. It was wonderful, but extremely hot. The ruins throughout Athens really are amazing, but I have to admit that they begin to all look the same to me.
So, with that being said, we decided it was time to get out of the city for a little bit and see an island. I think the island we went to was called Agina (but I´ll have to check with Jen to be sure). Anyway, it was only about an hour ferry ride from Athens. We couldn´t have had better weather! Not a cloud in the sky the entire day... it was hot, but we had the breeze from the ocean to cool us down. First thing we did when arriving on the island was rent a 4-wheeler (which only cost 30 euro for the entire day!!!) This was the best idea of the whole trip!! We rode around the island all day, stopping off at various beaches or just spots that had a pretty view. We swam in the ocean a lot!! The water was all different shades of blues and turquoise and crystal clear!!! It was probably the best day of my entire trip!! Since we were outside all day, we definitely got our fair share of sun... I have some wonderful and ridiculous tan lines... Everything about the day was perfect and I defintely didn´t want it to end.
For our last full day in the city, we just laid low, did some shopping, and ate wonderful greek cuisine!! I absolutely love greek food!! It´s so delicious and full of flavor!!! I was sad to leave Greece and Jen. But she´s now on a month long excavation on the Greek islands!! How fun?!?!? I just arrived in Madrid not too long ago. Unfortuntely, this will be my last stop before coming home. Due to things over here being expensive (more than I planned for), I have decided to cut my trip short about a week and come home. Even though I´m pretty bummed out about it, it just gives me motivation to plan and save for my next trip here!! Europe is such a big place and there is no possible way to see everything at once!!! My flight gets home late T uesday night, but I´m excited and ready to see everyone! I have a lot of pictures to share and will get those posted as soon as I get home!!
So, with that being said, we decided it was time to get out of the city for a little bit and see an island. I think the island we went to was called Agina (but I´ll have to check with Jen to be sure). Anyway, it was only about an hour ferry ride from Athens. We couldn´t have had better weather! Not a cloud in the sky the entire day... it was hot, but we had the breeze from the ocean to cool us down. First thing we did when arriving on the island was rent a 4-wheeler (which only cost 30 euro for the entire day!!!) This was the best idea of the whole trip!! We rode around the island all day, stopping off at various beaches or just spots that had a pretty view. We swam in the ocean a lot!! The water was all different shades of blues and turquoise and crystal clear!!! It was probably the best day of my entire trip!! Since we were outside all day, we definitely got our fair share of sun... I have some wonderful and ridiculous tan lines... Everything about the day was perfect and I defintely didn´t want it to end.
For our last full day in the city, we just laid low, did some shopping, and ate wonderful greek cuisine!! I absolutely love greek food!! It´s so delicious and full of flavor!!! I was sad to leave Greece and Jen. But she´s now on a month long excavation on the Greek islands!! How fun?!?!? I just arrived in Madrid not too long ago. Unfortuntely, this will be my last stop before coming home. Due to things over here being expensive (more than I planned for), I have decided to cut my trip short about a week and come home. Even though I´m pretty bummed out about it, it just gives me motivation to plan and save for my next trip here!! Europe is such a big place and there is no possible way to see everything at once!!! My flight gets home late T uesday night, but I´m excited and ready to see everyone! I have a lot of pictures to share and will get those posted as soon as I get home!!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Greece
Well... as amazing as Rome and Italy were, it is time to move on to the next country... GREECE!!!!! Sorry for the delay in updating this. I have gotten quite a few emails of worry, hoping that I made it ok, which I did!!
I flew into Athens, but my flight arrived in the middle of the night, and I had to wait at the airport for about 10 hours for my friends flight to come in. It was not very fun to sleep in the airport. First, when I arrived, I made a few phone calls to people back home and mistakenly had taken out my journal at the pay phone. Then, on accident, I left it there. I realized it about 5 minutes after I had walked off, but it was long gone. I, of course, freaked out because it has all of my detailed memories of this trip, people I've met, contact information, and whatnot. I began crying, out of sadness, but probably out of exhaustion, too. The employees at the airport were confused and tried to help, but it was no use. I finally calmed down, but I'm still pretty bummed out!
Jen (my old roommate and friend who is traveling with me through Greece, Athens specifically) finally made it to Greece. Her flight was delayed an hour, and then it took about an hour for her to get through customs. But I was so happy to see her!! I've been having a wonderful time on this trip and have loved every second of it, but have missed people from home. So, it is nice to have her here with me this week. She studied last year in Athens, so I feel like I have a personal tour guide!! We've been all over Athens, mostly on foot, and let me tell you ... it's a big city!!! The first day she was showing me where she used to live and the school she went to. Then, we tried to find a pay phone so she could call home (because she had not told them she made it yet...) but had a lot of trouble. Then, of course, like in every other country I've been in, we got lost. But it was ok. We both were just tired and sleep deprived.
Yesterday was a lot of fun. We went all over Athens during the day and looked at some of the many ruins throughout the city. We climbed up the Acropolis, which has just amazing views, and ended the day taking a bus 0ut to this one ruin about 2 hours outside of the city to watch the sunset. Unfortunately, we didn't actually watch the sunset because the last bus to take us back into the city left before it was down. But it was still really pretty, right off the coast, with crystal clear blue waters.
Athens, and Greece in general, is much different than the other European countries I've traveled to. Some things are similar, but for the most part, Greeks have a very different culture. It's wonderful and different. The Greek women are awesome. They are so helpful. The Greek men, well, they are very pushy, like to rip you off, and are perverts, but we just ignore them. Today we are meeting up with a girl I met in Italy, so that will be fun. And Jen keeps telling me all the places she wants me to see. Unfortunately, we don't get to stray too far from Athens because of time and money. But tomorrow we are going to some of the closer islands around!! I'll just have to save some of the more popular islands, like Crete, for another time since it is about a 10 hour ferry ride from Athens.
The weather here is extremely wonderful. Blue skies with no clouds in sight. The downfall is the heat. Not that I mind hot weather, but at 9 in the morning it's already in the mid 90's and gets well over 100 in the afternoon. Let's just say we drink water constantly!!! I will try to give more updates soon!! I hope everything is going great back home!
I flew into Athens, but my flight arrived in the middle of the night, and I had to wait at the airport for about 10 hours for my friends flight to come in. It was not very fun to sleep in the airport. First, when I arrived, I made a few phone calls to people back home and mistakenly had taken out my journal at the pay phone. Then, on accident, I left it there. I realized it about 5 minutes after I had walked off, but it was long gone. I, of course, freaked out because it has all of my detailed memories of this trip, people I've met, contact information, and whatnot. I began crying, out of sadness, but probably out of exhaustion, too. The employees at the airport were confused and tried to help, but it was no use. I finally calmed down, but I'm still pretty bummed out!
Jen (my old roommate and friend who is traveling with me through Greece, Athens specifically) finally made it to Greece. Her flight was delayed an hour, and then it took about an hour for her to get through customs. But I was so happy to see her!! I've been having a wonderful time on this trip and have loved every second of it, but have missed people from home. So, it is nice to have her here with me this week. She studied last year in Athens, so I feel like I have a personal tour guide!! We've been all over Athens, mostly on foot, and let me tell you ... it's a big city!!! The first day she was showing me where she used to live and the school she went to. Then, we tried to find a pay phone so she could call home (because she had not told them she made it yet...) but had a lot of trouble. Then, of course, like in every other country I've been in, we got lost. But it was ok. We both were just tired and sleep deprived.
Yesterday was a lot of fun. We went all over Athens during the day and looked at some of the many ruins throughout the city. We climbed up the Acropolis, which has just amazing views, and ended the day taking a bus 0ut to this one ruin about 2 hours outside of the city to watch the sunset. Unfortunately, we didn't actually watch the sunset because the last bus to take us back into the city left before it was down. But it was still really pretty, right off the coast, with crystal clear blue waters.
Athens, and Greece in general, is much different than the other European countries I've traveled to. Some things are similar, but for the most part, Greeks have a very different culture. It's wonderful and different. The Greek women are awesome. They are so helpful. The Greek men, well, they are very pushy, like to rip you off, and are perverts, but we just ignore them. Today we are meeting up with a girl I met in Italy, so that will be fun. And Jen keeps telling me all the places she wants me to see. Unfortunately, we don't get to stray too far from Athens because of time and money. But tomorrow we are going to some of the closer islands around!! I'll just have to save some of the more popular islands, like Crete, for another time since it is about a 10 hour ferry ride from Athens.
The weather here is extremely wonderful. Blue skies with no clouds in sight. The downfall is the heat. Not that I mind hot weather, but at 9 in the morning it's already in the mid 90's and gets well over 100 in the afternoon. Let's just say we drink water constantly!!! I will try to give more updates soon!! I hope everything is going great back home!
Sunday, June 7, 2009
When in Rome...
Do as the Romans! Right? I absolutely love Rome! It is one of the most moving and inspiring places I've ever been. There is just so much history in everything you come across on the streets. On my first full day, I did a lot of tourist things such as the Vatican Museum, Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill.
First, the Vatican Museum is just amazing! I love the history of Catholicism and everything that goes with it. The art and statues were awesome. And the Sistine Chapel, although very crowded, was beautiful. Close to the Vatican is St. Peter's Basilica, but I chose not to go in until today because I wanted to go to mass. From the Vatican, I wandered the streets for a bit, passing the many piazzas and fountains of Rome. I headed toward the Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill (which seem to be across town from the Vatican), so it was a pretty long walk. But, like everything else I've seen in Rome, these ancient monuments were... unreal. I am absolutely amazed at the history of these ruins and what all went on back in those days. It was so cool!
Next (by this time it was about 6:30pm), I headed back to the hostel for my FREE dinner! I started talking with some people in the hostel, heard about things they had seen, stuff they had done, and whatnot. I was planning on going on a night walk through Rome, since most of the buildings, fountains, and monuments are lit up at night, and invited a few people to come with me. There were four of us in all, and it was just fun evening. We walked pretty much all over, drank a bottle of wine, ate some gelato, and enjoyed the warm night air of Rome. It was simply magical.
Today, I got up early, along with another girl who wanted to go to mass at the Basilica, and spent the entire morning there. Mass was really cool. Extremely crowded. And in French?!?! I was a little surprised at that, too. But it was quite an interesting experience. Next, we climbed the dome of the Basilica and saw the amazing views of Rome. It was awesome! From there, we grabbed a quick bite to eat and walked the streets of Rome, seeing some of the smaller things that are off the beaten path. It was just a wonderful day and made me fall completely in love with Rome. I can't wait to come back and see more!!!
Tomorrow I head to Greece and am meeting a friend there for the week! I'm really looking forward to it!!!
First, the Vatican Museum is just amazing! I love the history of Catholicism and everything that goes with it. The art and statues were awesome. And the Sistine Chapel, although very crowded, was beautiful. Close to the Vatican is St. Peter's Basilica, but I chose not to go in until today because I wanted to go to mass. From the Vatican, I wandered the streets for a bit, passing the many piazzas and fountains of Rome. I headed toward the Colosseum, Forum and Palatine Hill (which seem to be across town from the Vatican), so it was a pretty long walk. But, like everything else I've seen in Rome, these ancient monuments were... unreal. I am absolutely amazed at the history of these ruins and what all went on back in those days. It was so cool!
Next (by this time it was about 6:30pm), I headed back to the hostel for my FREE dinner! I started talking with some people in the hostel, heard about things they had seen, stuff they had done, and whatnot. I was planning on going on a night walk through Rome, since most of the buildings, fountains, and monuments are lit up at night, and invited a few people to come with me. There were four of us in all, and it was just fun evening. We walked pretty much all over, drank a bottle of wine, ate some gelato, and enjoyed the warm night air of Rome. It was simply magical.
Today, I got up early, along with another girl who wanted to go to mass at the Basilica, and spent the entire morning there. Mass was really cool. Extremely crowded. And in French?!?! I was a little surprised at that, too. But it was quite an interesting experience. Next, we climbed the dome of the Basilica and saw the amazing views of Rome. It was awesome! From there, we grabbed a quick bite to eat and walked the streets of Rome, seeing some of the smaller things that are off the beaten path. It was just a wonderful day and made me fall completely in love with Rome. I can't wait to come back and see more!!!
Tomorrow I head to Greece and am meeting a friend there for the week! I'm really looking forward to it!!!
Friday, June 5, 2009
Cinque Terre Continued...
Almost missed my train to Rome. But I made it and am here now! Yay!
Back to Cinque Terre. Like I was saying, the hike was just wonderful and beautiful and amazing! After finishing the walk, I was so tired, there would be no possible way for me to walk back again. I decided to take a break in Monterosso (the last of the 5 towns I came to on my hike), eat some lunch, have some gelato, and stare off into the prettiest waters around! I decided to take the train back to my hostel so I could get my bathing suit and towel and come back to the beach!
Once I got back to my hostel, the cleaning people had already been there, and they mistakenly took my towel!! So, I had to go to the office (which was down the street from my room) and tell them of the incident. Luckily they gave me a new towel, but mine will be lost forever.
I laid out on the beach for a few hours. The weather was perfect blue skies and temperatures in the mid-80's! After the beach, I went back to shower (I really needed it after that hike!!) Luckily, two of the people in my room I hung out with the night before were back from their day hiking (they were going to walk the trail opposite of me because it's supposed to be easier starting at Monterosso instead of where I started, which is why we didn't all go together). The previous night we all went to the market, bought some deli meat, bread and cheese, and watched the sunset together (each with our own bottle of wine, of course). So, we decided to do the same thing again, only in one of the other towns. It was so pretty! We had a wonderful time and shared our different experiences about traveling and just life in general! I was sad to leave them today!
Now, I'm in ROME!!! I'm not going to start any of the tourist things until tomorrow since I got in late in the afternoon. Actually, right now I am doing laundry. You know how in the States we have "Laundry and Tan" places, well here they have "Splash and Net" places! Kind of interesting! I will keep everyone up to date as much as possible! See everyone soon!
Back to Cinque Terre. Like I was saying, the hike was just wonderful and beautiful and amazing! After finishing the walk, I was so tired, there would be no possible way for me to walk back again. I decided to take a break in Monterosso (the last of the 5 towns I came to on my hike), eat some lunch, have some gelato, and stare off into the prettiest waters around! I decided to take the train back to my hostel so I could get my bathing suit and towel and come back to the beach!
Once I got back to my hostel, the cleaning people had already been there, and they mistakenly took my towel!! So, I had to go to the office (which was down the street from my room) and tell them of the incident. Luckily they gave me a new towel, but mine will be lost forever.
I laid out on the beach for a few hours. The weather was perfect blue skies and temperatures in the mid-80's! After the beach, I went back to shower (I really needed it after that hike!!) Luckily, two of the people in my room I hung out with the night before were back from their day hiking (they were going to walk the trail opposite of me because it's supposed to be easier starting at Monterosso instead of where I started, which is why we didn't all go together). The previous night we all went to the market, bought some deli meat, bread and cheese, and watched the sunset together (each with our own bottle of wine, of course). So, we decided to do the same thing again, only in one of the other towns. It was so pretty! We had a wonderful time and shared our different experiences about traveling and just life in general! I was sad to leave them today!
Now, I'm in ROME!!! I'm not going to start any of the tourist things until tomorrow since I got in late in the afternoon. Actually, right now I am doing laundry. You know how in the States we have "Laundry and Tan" places, well here they have "Splash and Net" places! Kind of interesting! I will keep everyone up to date as much as possible! See everyone soon!
Cinque Terre
Italy is so wonderful. From Venice on to Florence and now Cinque Terre. My experiences keep getting better. Cinque Terre is the prettiest place I have ever seen in my entire life! Maybe I've said that before about other places, but seriously, this tops all of them.
For those that aren't familiar with Cinque Terre, it is five small towns off the coast of Western Italy that have a walking trail linking them all together. The trail between the towns takes about 5 hours, in all, to walk from start to finish and is 9 km long.
Yesterday morning, my plan was to walk one way, get to the last town by lunch time, eat and then hike the whole trail again back. Well, that didn't exactly happen. It took me about 4 hours to walk the entire thing. It was hard and strenuous at times, but it's the best thing I've done yet on this trip. The views and sights are simply perfect. It's away from all the hustle and bustle from the other tourist cities and all you hear is the ocean crashing up against the rocks. I took so many pictures, but they do absolutely no justice to what I actually saw.
I have to catch the train now, but will write more about the rest of my experience soon!
For those that aren't familiar with Cinque Terre, it is five small towns off the coast of Western Italy that have a walking trail linking them all together. The trail between the towns takes about 5 hours, in all, to walk from start to finish and is 9 km long.
Yesterday morning, my plan was to walk one way, get to the last town by lunch time, eat and then hike the whole trail again back. Well, that didn't exactly happen. It took me about 4 hours to walk the entire thing. It was hard and strenuous at times, but it's the best thing I've done yet on this trip. The views and sights are simply perfect. It's away from all the hustle and bustle from the other tourist cities and all you hear is the ocean crashing up against the rocks. I took so many pictures, but they do absolutely no justice to what I actually saw.
I have to catch the train now, but will write more about the rest of my experience soon!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Under the Tuscan Sun
Things here only keep getting better and better. I arrived in Florence yesterday, and of course, just like the last few days of traveling, it was chilly, rainy, and just no fun (meaning the weather is no fun, not the place). Surprisingly, I found my hostel without any trouble! The staff was wonderful and so friendly! (I have found that to be true with everyone in Italy) I didn't do too much in Florence yesterday because of the rain and the fact that I didn't get there until the late afternoon.
My hostel is nice, kind of small, but home-like. They include a free breakfast and dinner everyday! So, I was excited to have dinner and meet everyone there! It was just pasta, nothing special, but good (and FREE)! Everyone in my hostel has been really nice and interesting. There are a couple guys from London, quite a few from Cananda, and then some from the good old USA. There were about 12 of us squished around a small 4 person kitchen table eating, drinking wine, and just enjoying each others company! It was really nice! I began talking with two people in particular from Canada and pretty much hung out with them the rest of the evening. They invited me to go to Pisa with them today, so I was pretty excited about that!
This morning, however, my plans changed last minute. While I was waiting to use the bathroom (there are only 2 for about 24 people), I was looking at brochures in the hallway. I noticed one was a bike tour through Tuscany that has tours daily. I jumped to it. I invited the Canadians, but they weren't interested, so I was on my own for this one!
I was suppose to have a reservation for this tour, but luckily they let me come anyway. There were about 25 people in the tour, all around my age with the exception of one couple from Sydney in their 60's. They put us in a bunch of vans and drove us out to the countryside of Tuscany. Thank God the weather was amazing! The ride alone was just breath-taking!
We arrived at a castle, where we got to tour it, do a wine tasting and olive oil tasting (the castle is also a winery and makes olive oil - the best I've ever had in my entire life!!!), and jump on our bikes through the country side!! It was amazing. Words can't even begin to describe just how wonderful this tour was. There were three tour guides, two from Scotland and one from California. They were so funny and friendly. We were split between the guides and got to ride all through the country (about 15 miles by the end). Half way through, we stopped at a small family-run resturaunt for lunch, where we were served a full three-course meal (included in the price of the tour... and so was the wine tasting before)! It was so delicious! Plus, more wine!! You can never go wrong with that! It was just such a wonderful day that I wish I could relive over and over again! Tuscany is beautiful!
I leave tomorrow for Cinque Terre. So, in the end, I didn't really see much of the tourist things in Florence, which is okay with me. It is a very pretty city, and just walking through it is enough for me (that is, until next time I come, of course!) I'm really looking forward to Cinque Terre, which I hear is just amazing! I will get to hike between 5 small little towns right off the western coast of Italy!! Hopefully the weather will be just as good as it was today!!!
My hostel is nice, kind of small, but home-like. They include a free breakfast and dinner everyday! So, I was excited to have dinner and meet everyone there! It was just pasta, nothing special, but good (and FREE)! Everyone in my hostel has been really nice and interesting. There are a couple guys from London, quite a few from Cananda, and then some from the good old USA. There were about 12 of us squished around a small 4 person kitchen table eating, drinking wine, and just enjoying each others company! It was really nice! I began talking with two people in particular from Canada and pretty much hung out with them the rest of the evening. They invited me to go to Pisa with them today, so I was pretty excited about that!
This morning, however, my plans changed last minute. While I was waiting to use the bathroom (there are only 2 for about 24 people), I was looking at brochures in the hallway. I noticed one was a bike tour through Tuscany that has tours daily. I jumped to it. I invited the Canadians, but they weren't interested, so I was on my own for this one!
I was suppose to have a reservation for this tour, but luckily they let me come anyway. There were about 25 people in the tour, all around my age with the exception of one couple from Sydney in their 60's. They put us in a bunch of vans and drove us out to the countryside of Tuscany. Thank God the weather was amazing! The ride alone was just breath-taking!
We arrived at a castle, where we got to tour it, do a wine tasting and olive oil tasting (the castle is also a winery and makes olive oil - the best I've ever had in my entire life!!!), and jump on our bikes through the country side!! It was amazing. Words can't even begin to describe just how wonderful this tour was. There were three tour guides, two from Scotland and one from California. They were so funny and friendly. We were split between the guides and got to ride all through the country (about 15 miles by the end). Half way through, we stopped at a small family-run resturaunt for lunch, where we were served a full three-course meal (included in the price of the tour... and so was the wine tasting before)! It was so delicious! Plus, more wine!! You can never go wrong with that! It was just such a wonderful day that I wish I could relive over and over again! Tuscany is beautiful!
I leave tomorrow for Cinque Terre. So, in the end, I didn't really see much of the tourist things in Florence, which is okay with me. It is a very pretty city, and just walking through it is enough for me (that is, until next time I come, of course!) I'm really looking forward to Cinque Terre, which I hear is just amazing! I will get to hike between 5 small little towns right off the western coast of Italy!! Hopefully the weather will be just as good as it was today!!!
Monday, June 1, 2009
Who needs a Map?
Spent the last few days in Venice (well sort of). Venice is beautiful. Despite a cold front that came through right as I arrived, I have really enjoyed my short time here. Things didn't go quite as I had thought it would though.
First, I got to Venice a couple days ago around dinner time. Again, just like in every other city I've been to, I got lost trying to find my hostel. Venice doesn't have road signs, just "areas", which is extremely confusing. But, I finally found it! This is when my chaotic trip began. My hostel, which I had booked over a week ago, had no room because they overbooked themselves. Great. What was I suppose to do? This past weekend in Venice was packed. There was some big boat race on Sunday, so every last spare room in the entire city was booked. Luckily, since I had a reservation (along with the 15 other people who also had reservations but they had no room for) they made room at one of their sister hostels across town for everyone. Good. And, since it was across town, they took us all by boat to get there. Free ride down the Grand Canal!!!! When we all got to the other hostel, they were not prepared for us. They, too, were actually booked. So, they went out (I don't know where) and bought a bunch of cheap metal bunk beds and began putting them together. It was a mess. Once everything was done, and I had a bed, the staff made us all dinner and brought in many bottles of wine. It was so much fun, despite everything prior. There were about 25 girls crammed into one room with one bathroom. And the guys side was the same. I couldn't believe there were only two bathrooms for about 50 people, no joke!!!! In all this chaos, I met some really cool people, two of which I traveled with the next day.
Christine (a fellow Boilermaker) and her friend Hellen, were spending the weekend in Venice, too. They both have been studying in Austria since February. They were in the same situation I was in, so we instantly bonded. They said they were going to Trieste, a small town on the coast, which was about a 2 hour train ride from Venice, the next day. They asked if I'd be interested in going for the day, so I figured it'd be fun. I've never even heard of Trieste.
It was a wonderful city! It was very Mediterranean looking being right up against the coast on a big hill filled with green trees! Just along the coast, about a 15 minute bus ride from the center of town, was a castle. We went and saw it! The gardens around the castle were amazing! So immaculate!! The castle was really pretty, as well. It was built right on the edge of a cliff up against the water! Simply beautiful!! It had wonderful views of Trieste! I was just in awe! Once we got back into Trieste from the castle, we took an old Tram up the hills that overlooked the city. It was a really cool ride in this antique Tram!! So amazing! After that, we hopped on the train back to Venice.
Once we arrived back in Venice, it was already about 9pm. This is when we realized a few unfortunate things. First, none of us had an official map of Venice. Great. Next, since we were now at a new hostel, none of us had directions to the hostel. We knew the general area it was in, but that was it. Again, that is just great. But, I had my Europe guide book, which had a small map of Venice, so off we went.
After a lot of guessing and wrong turns, we were completely lost. We had been wandering the sidewalks and canals for about 2 hours and got absolutely no where. Finally, we stopped and asked directions (why we didn't do it sooner, I don't know). We were in the complete opposite direction from our hostel. So, we decided to just head back to the train station and take the ferry. In the end, after nearly three hours of walking around Venice trying to find our hostel, we made it to the ferry and made it back. We had missed dinner with the staff and were completely exhausted! I just went straight to bed. But, all in all, it was just a wonderful time, and I was able to see MANY parts of Venice I probably wouldn't have on my own!!
Now, I'm getting ready to take a train to Florence! Hopefully they will have better signs than Venice!!!
First, I got to Venice a couple days ago around dinner time. Again, just like in every other city I've been to, I got lost trying to find my hostel. Venice doesn't have road signs, just "areas", which is extremely confusing. But, I finally found it! This is when my chaotic trip began. My hostel, which I had booked over a week ago, had no room because they overbooked themselves. Great. What was I suppose to do? This past weekend in Venice was packed. There was some big boat race on Sunday, so every last spare room in the entire city was booked. Luckily, since I had a reservation (along with the 15 other people who also had reservations but they had no room for) they made room at one of their sister hostels across town for everyone. Good. And, since it was across town, they took us all by boat to get there. Free ride down the Grand Canal!!!! When we all got to the other hostel, they were not prepared for us. They, too, were actually booked. So, they went out (I don't know where) and bought a bunch of cheap metal bunk beds and began putting them together. It was a mess. Once everything was done, and I had a bed, the staff made us all dinner and brought in many bottles of wine. It was so much fun, despite everything prior. There were about 25 girls crammed into one room with one bathroom. And the guys side was the same. I couldn't believe there were only two bathrooms for about 50 people, no joke!!!! In all this chaos, I met some really cool people, two of which I traveled with the next day.
Christine (a fellow Boilermaker) and her friend Hellen, were spending the weekend in Venice, too. They both have been studying in Austria since February. They were in the same situation I was in, so we instantly bonded. They said they were going to Trieste, a small town on the coast, which was about a 2 hour train ride from Venice, the next day. They asked if I'd be interested in going for the day, so I figured it'd be fun. I've never even heard of Trieste.
It was a wonderful city! It was very Mediterranean looking being right up against the coast on a big hill filled with green trees! Just along the coast, about a 15 minute bus ride from the center of town, was a castle. We went and saw it! The gardens around the castle were amazing! So immaculate!! The castle was really pretty, as well. It was built right on the edge of a cliff up against the water! Simply beautiful!! It had wonderful views of Trieste! I was just in awe! Once we got back into Trieste from the castle, we took an old Tram up the hills that overlooked the city. It was a really cool ride in this antique Tram!! So amazing! After that, we hopped on the train back to Venice.
Once we arrived back in Venice, it was already about 9pm. This is when we realized a few unfortunate things. First, none of us had an official map of Venice. Great. Next, since we were now at a new hostel, none of us had directions to the hostel. We knew the general area it was in, but that was it. Again, that is just great. But, I had my Europe guide book, which had a small map of Venice, so off we went.
After a lot of guessing and wrong turns, we were completely lost. We had been wandering the sidewalks and canals for about 2 hours and got absolutely no where. Finally, we stopped and asked directions (why we didn't do it sooner, I don't know). We were in the complete opposite direction from our hostel. So, we decided to just head back to the train station and take the ferry. In the end, after nearly three hours of walking around Venice trying to find our hostel, we made it to the ferry and made it back. We had missed dinner with the staff and were completely exhausted! I just went straight to bed. But, all in all, it was just a wonderful time, and I was able to see MANY parts of Venice I probably wouldn't have on my own!!
Now, I'm getting ready to take a train to Florence! Hopefully they will have better signs than Venice!!!
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Palaces, Hail, Mozart, and Mountains
Besides not having the most desirable weather (which I'll get to in a minute), Vienna was so wonderful! I didn't have much time there with so much to see, so I knew I needed some kind of organization in my tourist adventures. I joined a "Hop on Hop off" bus tour that was flexible and let you see things at will. On the bus, I listened in English about the history of various sights and whatnot. There were many places I wanted to get off and see closer up, such as their magnificant palaces, but due to weather, I stayed on the bus and glanced at a far.
The weather in Vienna was completely unpredictable. First, it was kind of cold (I'd say maybe low 50's) the entire time. Sometimes there would be completely blue skies with a few puffy white clouds, and the next minute, before there would even be time to pull out an umbrella, it would begin to rain. Then, it would begin to pour. It never lasted long, but it seemed like an ongoing cycle the whole time I was there.
On one of my many walks around the city (while it wasn't raining), I was talked into buying a ticket to a Mozart concert. It was a little pricey, and I'm not one to spend that kind of money, but it was the best thing I did while I was in Vienna. Although the walk there wasn't the greatest. I already told you about the weather. Well, I got the pouring down rain part just as I was heading to the concert. But, a wonderful added bonus for me was HAIL. Yes. Hail. Along with the maddness of the down-pour, I was also being hit with little pea sized balls. It was just wonderful (meant to be said sarcastically). But anyway... This concert was at one of the smaller palaces within the city. A small orchestra, in full 19th century costume, played the best of Mozart and Johann Strauss. And, an added bonus, it was also a ballet and opera!! It was just so wonderful, and I didn't want it to end. It made you feel like you were actually back in the 19th century with them, listening to the wonderful music in a gorgeous ball room. I, again, was one of the only younger ones in the crowd. Most had to be 60 or older. But apparently that's just going to be the theme of this trip! Now, I am on my way to ITALY!! Venice, more specifically. I took the train to a small town in southern Austria, Villach, and now have a few hours to kill before I catch the bus the rest of the way to Venice.
The ride was magnificant!! I was just completely absorbed in the mountains. It's like I was in a trance for the entire 4 hour train ride, completely in awe of the beautiful nature all around. How anyone could question if there was really a God is beyond me! Only God could create something so breath-taking! I swear, one of these days, I'm going to live in the mountains, find myself a nice mountain-man to marry, and we'll have a great big litter of mountain kids!! Wouldn't that just be wonderful!? I know you must be laughing, but this is no joke!
I am excited for Venice, and my whole Italian week and a half!! Keep reading! I'll try to keep you updated as much as possible.
The weather in Vienna was completely unpredictable. First, it was kind of cold (I'd say maybe low 50's) the entire time. Sometimes there would be completely blue skies with a few puffy white clouds, and the next minute, before there would even be time to pull out an umbrella, it would begin to rain. Then, it would begin to pour. It never lasted long, but it seemed like an ongoing cycle the whole time I was there.
On one of my many walks around the city (while it wasn't raining), I was talked into buying a ticket to a Mozart concert. It was a little pricey, and I'm not one to spend that kind of money, but it was the best thing I did while I was in Vienna. Although the walk there wasn't the greatest. I already told you about the weather. Well, I got the pouring down rain part just as I was heading to the concert. But, a wonderful added bonus for me was HAIL. Yes. Hail. Along with the maddness of the down-pour, I was also being hit with little pea sized balls. It was just wonderful (meant to be said sarcastically). But anyway... This concert was at one of the smaller palaces within the city. A small orchestra, in full 19th century costume, played the best of Mozart and Johann Strauss. And, an added bonus, it was also a ballet and opera!! It was just so wonderful, and I didn't want it to end. It made you feel like you were actually back in the 19th century with them, listening to the wonderful music in a gorgeous ball room. I, again, was one of the only younger ones in the crowd. Most had to be 60 or older. But apparently that's just going to be the theme of this trip! Now, I am on my way to ITALY!! Venice, more specifically. I took the train to a small town in southern Austria, Villach, and now have a few hours to kill before I catch the bus the rest of the way to Venice.
The ride was magnificant!! I was just completely absorbed in the mountains. It's like I was in a trance for the entire 4 hour train ride, completely in awe of the beautiful nature all around. How anyone could question if there was really a God is beyond me! Only God could create something so breath-taking! I swear, one of these days, I'm going to live in the mountains, find myself a nice mountain-man to marry, and we'll have a great big litter of mountain kids!! Wouldn't that just be wonderful!? I know you must be laughing, but this is no joke!
I am excited for Venice, and my whole Italian week and a half!! Keep reading! I'll try to keep you updated as much as possible.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Why I Paid for a City Train Pass is Beyond Me!
When I first arrived in Berlin, I was told to buy a 72 hour city train pass to have unlimited access to the city trains while I'm there. Makes sense, right? Well, I paid 22 euro for it, which I felt was expensive, and have yet to be asked to show anyone proof of my purchase to ride the trains. Oh well.
I went to Potsdam, Germany today as a little day trip. It was wonderful. Hands down, my favorite thing in Germany, yet!! I took a guided tour through the cute little city. There are many palaces and castles to see. Plus, there is just so much history in Potsdam, such as the Potsdam Conference during WWII. The buildings were beautiful, for the most part. A lot of renovations are still being done to the entire city, so there is a lot of construction. A lot of the houses and buildings that still need renovations done still have bullet holes all over them from the war. It was crazy to see that. It really made me appreciate America and how safe of a country we have been for many years! The tour guide was super nice. I felt bad for him because he had to say everything in German and then repeat it again in English. Besides the tour guide, I was the only other young person on the bus. Everyone else had at least 45 years on me. I'm guessing the average age of everyone in my tour group was 68. But they loved me. One french woman in particular enjoyed talking with me because she wanted to practice her english. She and her husband were hysterical! It was a lot of fun! I didn't want the tour to end! After that, I stayed in Potsdam for a little while and window shopped! There were a ton of cute shops all around.
Now I'm back in Berlin. I need to find a place to do laundry. I'm running low on a few necessity clothing items!! I leave tomorrow for Vienna! I'm really excited and can't wait to see what else is in store for me this week!!!
I went to Potsdam, Germany today as a little day trip. It was wonderful. Hands down, my favorite thing in Germany, yet!! I took a guided tour through the cute little city. There are many palaces and castles to see. Plus, there is just so much history in Potsdam, such as the Potsdam Conference during WWII. The buildings were beautiful, for the most part. A lot of renovations are still being done to the entire city, so there is a lot of construction. A lot of the houses and buildings that still need renovations done still have bullet holes all over them from the war. It was crazy to see that. It really made me appreciate America and how safe of a country we have been for many years! The tour guide was super nice. I felt bad for him because he had to say everything in German and then repeat it again in English. Besides the tour guide, I was the only other young person on the bus. Everyone else had at least 45 years on me. I'm guessing the average age of everyone in my tour group was 68. But they loved me. One french woman in particular enjoyed talking with me because she wanted to practice her english. She and her husband were hysterical! It was a lot of fun! I didn't want the tour to end! After that, I stayed in Potsdam for a little while and window shopped! There were a ton of cute shops all around.
Now I'm back in Berlin. I need to find a place to do laundry. I'm running low on a few necessity clothing items!! I leave tomorrow for Vienna! I'm really excited and can't wait to see what else is in store for me this week!!!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
BERLIN
Well, before leaving Strasbourg. I was able to see a lot of the town just by walking around. I took a boat tour, a little boring, but interesting. There are a lot of cute shops but I'm not much of a shopper, so I just looked in the windows. I went to church. My first time in a Catholic mass, not in english. Now I know what Grandpa feels like, I couldn't understand a thing! But at least I went, right? I probably could have stayed there longer! It was so relaxing and peaceful. But on to Germany I went.
I was hoping to go to Munich, but with expensive ticket prices and being unable to find a hostel for the right dates, I ended up in Berlin. My 7 hour train ride was aweful. Somehow they overbooked it or something. They weren't able to give me a seat assignment. I had to sit on the floor, in the doorway, for the entire 7 hours. And it wasn't a direct train ride. We stopped every 45 minutes or so. Ugh. Not that great. Then, of course, I got lost in the train station once getting to Berlin. I tried to ask for help 5 different times, but no one seemed to understand English, at least of those I was asking. Finally I figured it out on my own and made my way to my next stop to find my hostel. I had bad directions. Got lost again. Wandered around for another hour. Finally asked a cab driver for directions. They were good. And I made it in one piece. Berlin is a much different atmosphere than the other places I've been. All of it's buildings are modern, I'm sure due to WWII, and it feels more like a city. I wandered through the city today. Took a tour. Saw some pretty historic sights. It was interesting. But now it's raining. Not as much to do in the rain. Tomorrow I'm going to a suburb where there is a cool Palace. Everyone here is very nice and friendly. I went out for beers last night with some of the people in my hostel. It was relaxing. Thursday morning I'll head for Vienna. I was hoping to go to Salzburg (especially to do a Sound of Music Tour!!) but unfortunately, my plans have changed. Which is A-OK with me!! Vienna will be wonderful. I love the mountains and can't wait to see them! I hope everything is great back home!
I was hoping to go to Munich, but with expensive ticket prices and being unable to find a hostel for the right dates, I ended up in Berlin. My 7 hour train ride was aweful. Somehow they overbooked it or something. They weren't able to give me a seat assignment. I had to sit on the floor, in the doorway, for the entire 7 hours. And it wasn't a direct train ride. We stopped every 45 minutes or so. Ugh. Not that great. Then, of course, I got lost in the train station once getting to Berlin. I tried to ask for help 5 different times, but no one seemed to understand English, at least of those I was asking. Finally I figured it out on my own and made my way to my next stop to find my hostel. I had bad directions. Got lost again. Wandered around for another hour. Finally asked a cab driver for directions. They were good. And I made it in one piece. Berlin is a much different atmosphere than the other places I've been. All of it's buildings are modern, I'm sure due to WWII, and it feels more like a city. I wandered through the city today. Took a tour. Saw some pretty historic sights. It was interesting. But now it's raining. Not as much to do in the rain. Tomorrow I'm going to a suburb where there is a cool Palace. Everyone here is very nice and friendly. I went out for beers last night with some of the people in my hostel. It was relaxing. Thursday morning I'll head for Vienna. I was hoping to go to Salzburg (especially to do a Sound of Music Tour!!) but unfortunately, my plans have changed. Which is A-OK with me!! Vienna will be wonderful. I love the mountains and can't wait to see them! I hope everything is great back home!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
I Love the French!
Well, I had a wonderful time in Paris! In the short time while I was there, I got to see so much! I started with the Arc de Triomphe and went to the top! Amazing view! Took the stairs, stupidly!! I am out of shape! Next I walked over to the Eiffel Tower (I thought it would be a shorter walk than it was!) but decided not to go up... the lines were way too long, and I probably got just about the same view from the Arc. The metros weren't as nice as in London, but I managed.
The Next day I saw the Notre Dame Cathedral, which was free!! Sweet!! It was beautiful, as most big Cathedrals are. There was some chior group singing there when I walked through! They were good! Next I walked over to the Pantheon. This I paid to see, but it was worth it! What gorgeous architecture!! Everything is so big and bold! Next, I walked to the Jardin du Luxembourg. (Notice I'm walking everywhere.. I'll be in shape in no time!) This was probably one of my favorite places! Paris is known for its beautiful gardens, and I know why! They are magnificant! I could have stayed there all day! It was about lunch time at this point, and I was determined to find a Falafel place my friend had recommended. She even mapquested it for me and everything. Well, it took me over an hour to find! I was so frustrated! But found some cute little shops along they way. There is a book store called Shakespeare and Company (I heard about from a friend) that I came across. It was really neat, and if I were more of a reader, I probably could have spent all day in there as well. After eating my falafel (which was amazing, by the way) I went to the Musee Louvre. Just the outside took my breath away. I mean I've seen pictures, but to see it in person was just amazing! I went inside, bought by ticket, and looked at some art. A person could easily spend the whole day there, it was so big! That was really the last of my touristy things in Paris. I met some guys back at my hostel and had wine with them.
Today, I went to the train station early, since I had nothing to do, and waited for my noon train to Strasbourg. I'm there now and loving every second of it. It's a city with a small town feel! I can't wait to explore more of it tomorrow!!
The Next day I saw the Notre Dame Cathedral, which was free!! Sweet!! It was beautiful, as most big Cathedrals are. There was some chior group singing there when I walked through! They were good! Next I walked over to the Pantheon. This I paid to see, but it was worth it! What gorgeous architecture!! Everything is so big and bold! Next, I walked to the Jardin du Luxembourg. (Notice I'm walking everywhere.. I'll be in shape in no time!) This was probably one of my favorite places! Paris is known for its beautiful gardens, and I know why! They are magnificant! I could have stayed there all day! It was about lunch time at this point, and I was determined to find a Falafel place my friend had recommended. She even mapquested it for me and everything. Well, it took me over an hour to find! I was so frustrated! But found some cute little shops along they way. There is a book store called Shakespeare and Company (I heard about from a friend) that I came across. It was really neat, and if I were more of a reader, I probably could have spent all day in there as well. After eating my falafel (which was amazing, by the way) I went to the Musee Louvre. Just the outside took my breath away. I mean I've seen pictures, but to see it in person was just amazing! I went inside, bought by ticket, and looked at some art. A person could easily spend the whole day there, it was so big! That was really the last of my touristy things in Paris. I met some guys back at my hostel and had wine with them.
Today, I went to the train station early, since I had nothing to do, and waited for my noon train to Strasbourg. I'm there now and loving every second of it. It's a city with a small town feel! I can't wait to explore more of it tomorrow!!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Goodbye London, Hello Paris!
After spending two days in London, it's time to head to Paris. I've had a lot of fun with my time here in London! I've done all the touristy things! Yesterday was my favorite! I went to Portabello Market and just loved it! I could have spent all day there. Also, I was able to see the broadway show Spring Awakening! I absolutely loved it! I leave later this afternoon for Paris. I'm really excited but don't want to over-do things just yet. I haven't had much resting time and am extremely exhausted! So I'm going to take it easy today and leave the bigger things for tomorrow! I'm not sure exactly how long I'll be in Paris, at least two nights but probably more. Thanks for all the emails! I'll try to write more when I'm in Paris!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Barely Made It!
Though a brief flight, flying into Chicago was beautiful. I couldn't have asked for better weather, a window seat, and the best view of the city at sunset. Everything went smoothly. I found the next gate to my connecting flight which left in 1 hour. After sitting for only 20 minutes in the waiting room, talking on the phone to a friend, my next flight was already boarding. Wow, I thought, I'll be there before I know it! Yeah, I spoke too soon.
The flight was packed. Two seats next to each window and five seats in the middle. Luckily, I had a window seat. After sitting on the plane for only about a half hour, we began to pull away from the gate. Finally! Not even five minutes later, stopping midway in the middle of the road, the pilot came on over the intercom and announced that he saw sparks from the left engine (go figure that's what side of the plane I'm sitting on) and we will have to be pulled back into the gate for further inspection. I guess on the bright side we didn't blow up, but now we had to wait. After sitting for another half hour, the pilot announced we will be able to leave tonight, but not for another 45 minutes minimum.
Finally, the engine was fixed (whatever was wrong with it) and we were on our way. The seats were uncomfortable, I couldn't sleep, and the girl sitting next to me was busy doing physics homework for what seemed like the entire flight. Needless to say, it was a very long and boring flight that never seemed to end.
After landing in London, the weather is nice, partly cloudy with highs in the lower 60s. I grabbed my bag and off I went to find my hostel. It wasn't hard to find and looks nice. Now I'm trying to find Trafalgar Square where I'm meeting a friend for dinner. I've gotten a little lost, but I don't mind. People watching and looking at all the shops is fun and interesting. I figured that I should update this today, because tomorrow will be busy filling my day with tourist shenanigans and whatnot. After London, I'll probably head to Paris and France for a few days to see what there is to explore!! More to come!!
The flight was packed. Two seats next to each window and five seats in the middle. Luckily, I had a window seat. After sitting on the plane for only about a half hour, we began to pull away from the gate. Finally! Not even five minutes later, stopping midway in the middle of the road, the pilot came on over the intercom and announced that he saw sparks from the left engine (go figure that's what side of the plane I'm sitting on) and we will have to be pulled back into the gate for further inspection. I guess on the bright side we didn't blow up, but now we had to wait. After sitting for another half hour, the pilot announced we will be able to leave tonight, but not for another 45 minutes minimum.
Finally, the engine was fixed (whatever was wrong with it) and we were on our way. The seats were uncomfortable, I couldn't sleep, and the girl sitting next to me was busy doing physics homework for what seemed like the entire flight. Needless to say, it was a very long and boring flight that never seemed to end.
After landing in London, the weather is nice, partly cloudy with highs in the lower 60s. I grabbed my bag and off I went to find my hostel. It wasn't hard to find and looks nice. Now I'm trying to find Trafalgar Square where I'm meeting a friend for dinner. I've gotten a little lost, but I don't mind. People watching and looking at all the shops is fun and interesting. I figured that I should update this today, because tomorrow will be busy filling my day with tourist shenanigans and whatnot. After London, I'll probably head to Paris and France for a few days to see what there is to explore!! More to come!!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Last Day Home
My room's a disaster. There are probably a thousand things I should be doing to prepare for the next 5 weeks that I haven't thought of. Though I think I know what I'm doing, I'm afraid I'll be confused and lost once I get to "foreign land". Passport, check. IDs, check. Money, check. Clothes, check. Maps, check. Ready for adventure, double check. Anything else? Oh well. Everything will fall into place, such as life often does.
Tomorrow before departure will consist of saying goodbyes, checking last minute details, and just relaxing one last time here at home. I suppose the good thing about an evening flight is time. Time to get all these things done. The bad thing about an evening flight is, once again, time. It'll be a waiting game. Waiting to start what is expected to be one of the best vacations of my life (at least that's what I'm hoping!).
Many have asked if I'm scared to go alone. I don't know? I didn't really have a choice. I knew that I wanted to do this trip, no matter what. I have asked multiple people to come along, even for a little bit if the whole 5 weeks is too long. But, in this wonderful recession our country is in, money is tight and spending thousands of dollars may not be the best decision in the world. I guess I have smart friends. As for me, I look at it as if I don't go now, like the way I want to, it will never happen like this again. Oh, I'm sure I'll make my way back to Europe at some point (hopefully multiple times), but I'll never be there in this manner. Going from hostel to hostel, counting pennies, meeting complete strangers, and being independent when facing this world in my early 20s.
So, if you're reading this, send your prayers and keep in touch! I'll try to write regularly. Send me an email for more personal messages, tcoolbau@gmail.com!! Stay tuned for my adventures of the next 5 weeks!
Tomorrow before departure will consist of saying goodbyes, checking last minute details, and just relaxing one last time here at home. I suppose the good thing about an evening flight is time. Time to get all these things done. The bad thing about an evening flight is, once again, time. It'll be a waiting game. Waiting to start what is expected to be one of the best vacations of my life (at least that's what I'm hoping!).
Many have asked if I'm scared to go alone. I don't know? I didn't really have a choice. I knew that I wanted to do this trip, no matter what. I have asked multiple people to come along, even for a little bit if the whole 5 weeks is too long. But, in this wonderful recession our country is in, money is tight and spending thousands of dollars may not be the best decision in the world. I guess I have smart friends. As for me, I look at it as if I don't go now, like the way I want to, it will never happen like this again. Oh, I'm sure I'll make my way back to Europe at some point (hopefully multiple times), but I'll never be there in this manner. Going from hostel to hostel, counting pennies, meeting complete strangers, and being independent when facing this world in my early 20s.
So, if you're reading this, send your prayers and keep in touch! I'll try to write regularly. Send me an email for more personal messages, tcoolbau@gmail.com!! Stay tuned for my adventures of the next 5 weeks!
Monday, May 11, 2009
Countdown: One Week
There is so much to do between now and next Monday. Most who know me, know that I am a person who likes to plan things out. And for this European adventure I'm about to embark on, I have absolutely nothing planned. For the most part, I probably won't plan it (shocking, I know). But, I think a rough outline of what I'd like to do, where I'd like to go, what I'd like to see might be a good idea. So I've got to get busy. I need to start packing, get last minute things together, and say goodbye to some people I might not see in a while, even after returning from my trip.
With that being said, this is my last week with my roommates here at Purdue. I can't even begin to explain how sad that makes me. We had all hoped to spend the whole week together with no other obligations, but of course, life gets in the way. J will be home working all week. Sarah is working here all week. I need to get my things together for Europe. And the Mole is... well.. I don't know?! She'll be here, though! So, tonight is really the last night we'll all be together. We had hoped to go camping (and maybe still might?!), but we heard the weather might turn on us, and we don't do well in bad weather!! So, in compromise, we'll just do our traditional indoor camping like we did last Fall. Pitch a tent in the living room. Make some smores by candlelight. And maybe even drink like it's our 21st birthday (or not?!?! we're all trying to save money!!) But either way, this year has been the best and worst year ever (for various reasons). And I only made it through because I came to know the coolest people in the world!! They've been my rock for the last 10 months, and I can't believe it has to come to an end.
With that being said, this is my last week with my roommates here at Purdue. I can't even begin to explain how sad that makes me. We had all hoped to spend the whole week together with no other obligations, but of course, life gets in the way. J will be home working all week. Sarah is working here all week. I need to get my things together for Europe. And the Mole is... well.. I don't know?! She'll be here, though! So, tonight is really the last night we'll all be together. We had hoped to go camping (and maybe still might?!), but we heard the weather might turn on us, and we don't do well in bad weather!! So, in compromise, we'll just do our traditional indoor camping like we did last Fall. Pitch a tent in the living room. Make some smores by candlelight. And maybe even drink like it's our 21st birthday (or not?!?! we're all trying to save money!!) But either way, this year has been the best and worst year ever (for various reasons). And I only made it through because I came to know the coolest people in the world!! They've been my rock for the last 10 months, and I can't believe it has to come to an end.
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