London was a GREAT choice for our last voyage!! We flew to England and spent an incredible weekend at the Park Plaza Hotel (don't even ask) in Westminster, London. Our flight was delayed, of course, on Thursday, so we practically lost a whole day, but we made up for it. Friday we did some exploring by ourselves. We were able to see Big Ben, Westminster Abby, the Eye (a huge ferris wheel) and buy some post cards and my spoon =). We hung around and had some dinner, then went to meet Kristin in town. We had a great night, starting off at a bar then moving on to a club when that closed. It was great to see Kristin and get a taste of home, and it was also nice to have someone who knows their way around! Saturday, Molly and I planned a hop on/hop off bus tour. I highly recommend it if you plan to go to London. We got to see everything we wanted including; Buckingham Palace, the London Bridge, and the Tower Bridge, the Tower of London where the Crown Jewels are kept, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abby and Big Ben (aagain, but this time with someone telling us all about its' history), and St. Paul's Cathedral. You were able to get off of the bus and hop back on whenever you wanted, which was very convenient. We ate lunch overlooking the river Thames by the Tower of London and after that we went back to the hotel to get ready. We met Kristin at a pub in town for dinner and some drinks. That night we made rservations to go to the Absolut Ice Bar, which is a bar made completely of Ice! Everything from the walls to the chairs to the glasses that you drink out of is made of ice and because it is sponsored by Absolut Vodka, the drinks were delicious. You are only allowed to stay in there for 40 minutes maximum and you have to wear a parka that they provide for you, which comes with a hood and gloves. We ended up going back fairly early that night because we had a pretty early flight on Sunday!
We had an amazing time, and I love that I have been lucky enough to travel to all of these places!!
Monday, May 11, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Spring Break!
Spring break was 2 weeks long and absolutely incredible. Molly and I had a lot planned out and we weren't sure we would be able to pull it off, but we did!
Our first stop was Brussels, Belgium. We basically chose Brussels because of its convenience; plane ride was fairly cheap and they speak French, so it wouldnt be too hard to get around. We had actually talked about cutting Belguim out of our plans for a while because we weren't sure what we were going to do and I am very happy we didn't because it may have been my favorite country that we visited. Our flight was about an hour and a half long and then there was a shuttle to our hotel, which was placed in the center of town. That night we enjoyed some dinner and some delicious beer. Belgium is known for ite flavorfull beer and we tried everything we could get our hands on- Krieke cherry, strawberry, citrus, stella artois, hoegaarden, leffe... It was fantastic. The next day we decided to do our own sight seeing. We saw the Manneken Pis, which is certainly not as good as people make it sound. It is just a very SMALL statue of a naked boy peeing. After, we had some Belgium Waffles, which were delicious (I would go back again just for the waffles!) and then we somehow stumbled upon the Grand Place, which was a market place around the 12th century. It has amazing architecture and we were really lucky to see it. There was music playing there with pepople danceing, and pie throwing contests going on right in the middle. Also, there is a statue or Everard't Serclaes who was the lord of the Cruyckembourg and a citizen of Brussels. He was made famous by his recovery of Brussels from the Flemish and supposedly if you rub the statue, it brings you good luck (so, we did, of course!) Also, on the streets of Brussels that day was an amazing artist. He was starting from scratch and painting amazingly beautiful pictures right there on the street; it had Molly and me standing there for about an hour. That night we ate a fairly late dinner, but we're French now, so it's normal, and we went in early to get ready for our next trip which was Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Amsterdam was fun!! We got there in time for dinner and had no trouble finding our hotel. We went to a little cafe where we had some chicken dinners and Heinekens. We took the tram into Dam square, the center of town, and we started our night. Of course we went into a coffee shop, rights of passage in Amsterdam! , and I was very surprised with how legal and easy it was to smoke pot. People of all ages (over 18) were there and there was a menu of weed. You literally order your marijuana of choice and you can have a joint rolled for you or do it yourself. It was really strange because the "dealer" or server was about my dad's age. He looked like he should have been working in a bank or a 9-5 office job, but he was legally selling drugs for a living. We couldn't get over how natural it was. Also, the night life was insane. Everytime we turned a corner there were clubs offering free drinks, reduced cover fees or specials. You could pay 10 euros your whole stay in amsterdam and not be sober for a minute, it was ridiculous.The next day, we walked around Amsterdam and found a carnival. It was pretty cute, we stayed there for a while and spent the rest of the day shopping and sight-seeing. That night we went out to eat and our waitress spoke no English. Everyone else had been pretty easy to understand up until that point, but it turned out pretty well. We each pointed to something on the menu and hoped for the best, and got some more Heineken. Luckily, we eac enjoyed our Dutch dishes and we headed back into the Dam square that night.
Next came Cologne, Germany. We had a rough start in Germany; it was pouring rain, the hostel that we had booked was dirty and smelly, and there was a huge language barrier. The main concern, though, was the hostel. We had already paid in full, but somehow, we were able to get back all of out money and find a beautiful hotel room that included a private bathroom, a flat screen TV, free towels and cleanliness for only one euro more. It was fantastic. That night, we went to an American Steak House for dinner- I know, you're not supposed to do that in other countries but we had been traveling so much and normal food was necessary. It was amazing and I do not regret it for a second! The next day we walked around Germany. There was a huge cathedral by our hotel that we stopped into. It is legal to walk around Gremany with an open container, so we grabbed some German beer and shopped and did some more sight-seeing. That night for dinner, we both had escalope with Rahm Sauce, a German specialty and a phenominal apple strudel!! It was really nice.
The next day was set aside for traveling. We took a 4 hour train ride to Paris to meet my MOM DAD AND SISTER!!! and then another 4 hour train ride to Montpellier. In Montpellier, I introdiced my family to my temporary family and they got along really well. Then, I showed my family around town. The next day, we took the train back up to Paris again to go to EURO DISNEY. Molly came with us, as her first Disney experience. We had a really nice time. We went on all of the rides we possible could and saw some shows and and mickeymouse shaped cheesebugers. It was a lot of fun. I was so happy to see my family it helped me out a lot and I think they had fun, as well.
A few days later, Molly and I left mom dad and mel in Paris to do some sight seeing, while we worked our way back down France. We stopped at Tours for 2 nights first. Tours is in the Loire Valley and is most famous for the gorgeous Chateaux (castles where royal people lived). We decided to go on a half day tour of three castles; Amboise, Cenonceau, and Leonardo Da Vinci's house. It was very pretty and a good amout of time.
Lastly, we stopped in Bordeaux. Bordeaux was disappointing because the weather was horrible and our hotel was not located near the center of town, so we only spend a few hours walking around one of the days. Bordeaux is known for its wine, though, and we made sure to drink plenty of it. By this time, we were tired and ready to head back to Montpellier, which is what we did.
The trip was the best 2 weeks I've ever had. It was amazing to go to all of the different places and we had a great time. The worst part about a 2 week spring break is trying to get back into the routine of school again. We are so close to finished, though. I have a week of class, a weekend in London,, another week of class, 3 days of finals, and 2 days to relax and hang out on the Meditterranean Sea then I'm home. See you all in 3 WEEKS!!
Our first stop was Brussels, Belgium. We basically chose Brussels because of its convenience; plane ride was fairly cheap and they speak French, so it wouldnt be too hard to get around. We had actually talked about cutting Belguim out of our plans for a while because we weren't sure what we were going to do and I am very happy we didn't because it may have been my favorite country that we visited. Our flight was about an hour and a half long and then there was a shuttle to our hotel, which was placed in the center of town. That night we enjoyed some dinner and some delicious beer. Belgium is known for ite flavorfull beer and we tried everything we could get our hands on- Krieke cherry, strawberry, citrus, stella artois, hoegaarden, leffe... It was fantastic. The next day we decided to do our own sight seeing. We saw the Manneken Pis, which is certainly not as good as people make it sound. It is just a very SMALL statue of a naked boy peeing. After, we had some Belgium Waffles, which were delicious (I would go back again just for the waffles!) and then we somehow stumbled upon the Grand Place, which was a market place around the 12th century. It has amazing architecture and we were really lucky to see it. There was music playing there with pepople danceing, and pie throwing contests going on right in the middle. Also, there is a statue or Everard't Serclaes who was the lord of the Cruyckembourg and a citizen of Brussels. He was made famous by his recovery of Brussels from the Flemish and supposedly if you rub the statue, it brings you good luck (so, we did, of course!) Also, on the streets of Brussels that day was an amazing artist. He was starting from scratch and painting amazingly beautiful pictures right there on the street; it had Molly and me standing there for about an hour. That night we ate a fairly late dinner, but we're French now, so it's normal, and we went in early to get ready for our next trip which was Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Amsterdam was fun!! We got there in time for dinner and had no trouble finding our hotel. We went to a little cafe where we had some chicken dinners and Heinekens. We took the tram into Dam square, the center of town, and we started our night. Of course we went into a coffee shop, rights of passage in Amsterdam! , and I was very surprised with how legal and easy it was to smoke pot. People of all ages (over 18) were there and there was a menu of weed. You literally order your marijuana of choice and you can have a joint rolled for you or do it yourself. It was really strange because the "dealer" or server was about my dad's age. He looked like he should have been working in a bank or a 9-5 office job, but he was legally selling drugs for a living. We couldn't get over how natural it was. Also, the night life was insane. Everytime we turned a corner there were clubs offering free drinks, reduced cover fees or specials. You could pay 10 euros your whole stay in amsterdam and not be sober for a minute, it was ridiculous.The next day, we walked around Amsterdam and found a carnival. It was pretty cute, we stayed there for a while and spent the rest of the day shopping and sight-seeing. That night we went out to eat and our waitress spoke no English. Everyone else had been pretty easy to understand up until that point, but it turned out pretty well. We each pointed to something on the menu and hoped for the best, and got some more Heineken. Luckily, we eac enjoyed our Dutch dishes and we headed back into the Dam square that night.
Next came Cologne, Germany. We had a rough start in Germany; it was pouring rain, the hostel that we had booked was dirty and smelly, and there was a huge language barrier. The main concern, though, was the hostel. We had already paid in full, but somehow, we were able to get back all of out money and find a beautiful hotel room that included a private bathroom, a flat screen TV, free towels and cleanliness for only one euro more. It was fantastic. That night, we went to an American Steak House for dinner- I know, you're not supposed to do that in other countries but we had been traveling so much and normal food was necessary. It was amazing and I do not regret it for a second! The next day we walked around Germany. There was a huge cathedral by our hotel that we stopped into. It is legal to walk around Gremany with an open container, so we grabbed some German beer and shopped and did some more sight-seeing. That night for dinner, we both had escalope with Rahm Sauce, a German specialty and a phenominal apple strudel!! It was really nice.
The next day was set aside for traveling. We took a 4 hour train ride to Paris to meet my MOM DAD AND SISTER!!! and then another 4 hour train ride to Montpellier. In Montpellier, I introdiced my family to my temporary family and they got along really well. Then, I showed my family around town. The next day, we took the train back up to Paris again to go to EURO DISNEY. Molly came with us, as her first Disney experience. We had a really nice time. We went on all of the rides we possible could and saw some shows and and mickeymouse shaped cheesebugers. It was a lot of fun. I was so happy to see my family it helped me out a lot and I think they had fun, as well.
A few days later, Molly and I left mom dad and mel in Paris to do some sight seeing, while we worked our way back down France. We stopped at Tours for 2 nights first. Tours is in the Loire Valley and is most famous for the gorgeous Chateaux (castles where royal people lived). We decided to go on a half day tour of three castles; Amboise, Cenonceau, and Leonardo Da Vinci's house. It was very pretty and a good amout of time.
Lastly, we stopped in Bordeaux. Bordeaux was disappointing because the weather was horrible and our hotel was not located near the center of town, so we only spend a few hours walking around one of the days. Bordeaux is known for its wine, though, and we made sure to drink plenty of it. By this time, we were tired and ready to head back to Montpellier, which is what we did.
The trip was the best 2 weeks I've ever had. It was amazing to go to all of the different places and we had a great time. The worst part about a 2 week spring break is trying to get back into the routine of school again. We are so close to finished, though. I have a week of class, a weekend in London,, another week of class, 3 days of finals, and 2 days to relax and hang out on the Meditterranean Sea then I'm home. See you all in 3 WEEKS!!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Ireland
Dublin Ireland was a great time. First, we got to our hostel, which turned out to be a gorgeous hotel. I have no idea how we got so lucky, but we stayed in a real hotel room with our own bathroom and everything for less then the hostels we just booked for spring break. It was fantastic.
On Monday, we arrived and had a pretty good flight and free transportation to the hotel room from the airport. We decided that night to go to the Hardrock cafe for dinner. Molly has never been to a hardrock before and I love the food there, so it worked out well. Before we ate dinner, though we did some shopping for green clothes to wear on Tuesday (St. Patrick's Day). We were fairly lucky because as soon as we stepped off the bus there was a little shop called Carrolls selling all types of clothes and hats and clover headbands. We bought some things and then went to dinner. At the restaurant we were told we would have to wait 45 mins for a table, which was dissappointing because we were really hungry. We decided to wait at the bar and grab a drink; but before we even reached the bar, literally 45 seconds later, our buzzer went off telling us they were ready to seat us. Somehow, we got lucky and got a table in no time. We ate a delicious dinner and had our first real Irish Guinness. After that, we met up with some of my friends from high school who are also abroad, and some of their friends. We all went out and had a lot of fun.
Tuesday was St. Patrick's Day. It was absolutely amazing. The parade was HUGE; people had ladders and were climbing on statues to see it. Technically, we were at the parade, but unfortunately we could not see a thing. O'Connelly, one of the busiest streets in Dublin was closed down and all you could see was a sea of green. There were SO many people. Everyone was happy and drunk; and dressed in green, with green accessories, and green make-up. It was great. We went to a bar nearby and had a few drinks. While we were there (just Molly and I because our friends were on the other side of the street and there was no way we could cross until after the parade) we met some Irish friends. Surprisingly, it was difficult to have a conversation because of the thickness of their accents, but we managed. We learned that cornbeef and cabbage is NOT an Irish tradition. When we mentioned the meal, our Irish friends asked us what cornbeef was, they have never even heard of it! Turns out they have either ham and cabbage, roastbeef, or stew. Anyyway, we met up with our friends after the parade and had a great night out.
Wednesday was a day to relax. As you can imagine, we were in pretty bad shape from the day/night before. We slept in and watched some T.V. in ENGLISH! That was really nice. Once we felt better we walked around town and did some shopping. On Thursday, we decided to go to the Guinness storehouse. It was really cool to see how Guinness is made and we got a couple of free samples- no complaints here. We had a really fun time. We walked around and did some sight-seeing of the town. We went in early that night because we had to get up at 430 on Friday morning to catch the shuttle back to the airport.
All in all we had an awesome time and I would go back to Ireland every year if I could. The people there are so nice and layed back. It was a great experience.
On Monday, we arrived and had a pretty good flight and free transportation to the hotel room from the airport. We decided that night to go to the Hardrock cafe for dinner. Molly has never been to a hardrock before and I love the food there, so it worked out well. Before we ate dinner, though we did some shopping for green clothes to wear on Tuesday (St. Patrick's Day). We were fairly lucky because as soon as we stepped off the bus there was a little shop called Carrolls selling all types of clothes and hats and clover headbands. We bought some things and then went to dinner. At the restaurant we were told we would have to wait 45 mins for a table, which was dissappointing because we were really hungry. We decided to wait at the bar and grab a drink; but before we even reached the bar, literally 45 seconds later, our buzzer went off telling us they were ready to seat us. Somehow, we got lucky and got a table in no time. We ate a delicious dinner and had our first real Irish Guinness. After that, we met up with some of my friends from high school who are also abroad, and some of their friends. We all went out and had a lot of fun.
Tuesday was St. Patrick's Day. It was absolutely amazing. The parade was HUGE; people had ladders and were climbing on statues to see it. Technically, we were at the parade, but unfortunately we could not see a thing. O'Connelly, one of the busiest streets in Dublin was closed down and all you could see was a sea of green. There were SO many people. Everyone was happy and drunk; and dressed in green, with green accessories, and green make-up. It was great. We went to a bar nearby and had a few drinks. While we were there (just Molly and I because our friends were on the other side of the street and there was no way we could cross until after the parade) we met some Irish friends. Surprisingly, it was difficult to have a conversation because of the thickness of their accents, but we managed. We learned that cornbeef and cabbage is NOT an Irish tradition. When we mentioned the meal, our Irish friends asked us what cornbeef was, they have never even heard of it! Turns out they have either ham and cabbage, roastbeef, or stew. Anyyway, we met up with our friends after the parade and had a great night out.
Wednesday was a day to relax. As you can imagine, we were in pretty bad shape from the day/night before. We slept in and watched some T.V. in ENGLISH! That was really nice. Once we felt better we walked around town and did some shopping. On Thursday, we decided to go to the Guinness storehouse. It was really cool to see how Guinness is made and we got a couple of free samples- no complaints here. We had a really fun time. We walked around and did some sight-seeing of the town. We went in early that night because we had to get up at 430 on Friday morning to catch the shuttle back to the airport.
All in all we had an awesome time and I would go back to Ireland every year if I could. The people there are so nice and layed back. It was a great experience.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Spain
Barcelona was probably the best choice for my 21st birthday. My brother came from Wednesday until Monday and it was perfect timing because I was starting to get a little homesick. I had an a amazing weekend.
Wednesday was my host brothers 16th birthday. Michael got to meet my whole French family and we had some duck for dinner and delicious wine, of course. Because of Michaels jet-lag and my 8:30 am course on Thurdays, we stayed in Wed and hung out with the family. Thursday night we went to a beer factory at the Odysseum. It was perfect for everyone, because as most of you know my brother and I love our beer, and it was a fun but quiet night because we left for Barcelona on Friday.
Friday we went to Tricias apt in Barcelona. We literally woke up, packed, ate and left for Spain. As soon as we got there, we went out to dunner. We actually had Italian and some wine, which was perfect and then went back to Tricias to get ready. We went to a club that night and stayed out until about 5:30 am. It was packed but we had fun dancing and drinking. My brother, Molly, and my housemate Elizabeth all came to Spain and one of Tricias roomates had a friend there on her spring break, so the sleeping situation was pretty ridiculous. We had two people in the single bed, three people in the double bed, two on the floor and one on the couch. I was one of the three in the double bed, so I guess I had one of the better arrangements.
Saturday was my 21st birthday! Tricia and I had to wake up at 8:30 in the morning to get soccer tickets for the game that night, it's safe to say we went right back to sleep. Once we woke up to start the day, we had some breakfast and then got ready and went to a bar near Tricia's apt. We had a few drinks before the game. The soccer game was amazing. It was Barcelona vs. Athletic Bilbao and Barce won 2-0. That was something my brother really wanted to do and I am SO happy we followed through because I had a great time. After the game we went out to eat by the stadium and then met up with some of Tricias friends and had some more drinks. We ended up going to a bar that was kind of hidden, so there were not a lot of exchange students, which was cool. I actually had to speak French to communicate with some of the other people there. We had a really good time and because we were still in our jerseys we weren't allowed in the clubs, but it was okay because I think most of us were ready to go home when the bars closed.
Sunday was probably my favorite. We woke up and did some sight-seeing; we saw La Sagrada Family by Antoni Gaudi and then we took an airtram up to a castle that overlooked Barcelona. The sights were breath-taking and we couldn't have asked for better weather. When we got back we went out for a Spanish dinner and some Sangria! It was delicious. After dinner we went to a Kareoke bar which was so much fun. At night, Tricia was trying open the door to her apt and fell face first into cement. She now has a black, swollen eye and if you have facebook I suggest you look at her pictures for a good laugh.
Monday, Tricia and I took Michael to the train station to fly back to the states. I was really happy he came and I had a great time. Tricia actually cried when he left (I'm not really sure why SHE cried when MY brother left, but it was cute). It honestly made me feel better having him here for my birthday.
I am planning on doing nothing but relaxing this weekend because I need to catch up on sleep and WE LEAVE FOR IRELAND MONDAY! I can't believe Molly and I actually followed through with our 'Ireland for St. Patrick's Day' idea and Tricia's in on it now, too! I can not wait to see what happens. I am so thankful for this oppurtunity and my family for helping me with everything.
I LOVE AND MISS EVERYONE FROM HOME!
Wednesday was my host brothers 16th birthday. Michael got to meet my whole French family and we had some duck for dinner and delicious wine, of course. Because of Michaels jet-lag and my 8:30 am course on Thurdays, we stayed in Wed and hung out with the family. Thursday night we went to a beer factory at the Odysseum. It was perfect for everyone, because as most of you know my brother and I love our beer, and it was a fun but quiet night because we left for Barcelona on Friday.
Friday we went to Tricias apt in Barcelona. We literally woke up, packed, ate and left for Spain. As soon as we got there, we went out to dunner. We actually had Italian and some wine, which was perfect and then went back to Tricias to get ready. We went to a club that night and stayed out until about 5:30 am. It was packed but we had fun dancing and drinking. My brother, Molly, and my housemate Elizabeth all came to Spain and one of Tricias roomates had a friend there on her spring break, so the sleeping situation was pretty ridiculous. We had two people in the single bed, three people in the double bed, two on the floor and one on the couch. I was one of the three in the double bed, so I guess I had one of the better arrangements.
Saturday was my 21st birthday! Tricia and I had to wake up at 8:30 in the morning to get soccer tickets for the game that night, it's safe to say we went right back to sleep. Once we woke up to start the day, we had some breakfast and then got ready and went to a bar near Tricia's apt. We had a few drinks before the game. The soccer game was amazing. It was Barcelona vs. Athletic Bilbao and Barce won 2-0. That was something my brother really wanted to do and I am SO happy we followed through because I had a great time. After the game we went out to eat by the stadium and then met up with some of Tricias friends and had some more drinks. We ended up going to a bar that was kind of hidden, so there were not a lot of exchange students, which was cool. I actually had to speak French to communicate with some of the other people there. We had a really good time and because we were still in our jerseys we weren't allowed in the clubs, but it was okay because I think most of us were ready to go home when the bars closed.
Sunday was probably my favorite. We woke up and did some sight-seeing; we saw La Sagrada Family by Antoni Gaudi and then we took an airtram up to a castle that overlooked Barcelona. The sights were breath-taking and we couldn't have asked for better weather. When we got back we went out for a Spanish dinner and some Sangria! It was delicious. After dinner we went to a Kareoke bar which was so much fun. At night, Tricia was trying open the door to her apt and fell face first into cement. She now has a black, swollen eye and if you have facebook I suggest you look at her pictures for a good laugh.
Monday, Tricia and I took Michael to the train station to fly back to the states. I was really happy he came and I had a great time. Tricia actually cried when he left (I'm not really sure why SHE cried when MY brother left, but it was cute). It honestly made me feel better having him here for my birthday.
I am planning on doing nothing but relaxing this weekend because I need to catch up on sleep and WE LEAVE FOR IRELAND MONDAY! I can't believe Molly and I actually followed through with our 'Ireland for St. Patrick's Day' idea and Tricia's in on it now, too! I can not wait to see what happens. I am so thankful for this oppurtunity and my family for helping me with everything.
I LOVE AND MISS EVERYONE FROM HOME!
Italy
Ok, so as usual I am late on a few blogs, but I'm really busy all of a sudden.
So Italy, was February 18th until the 22nd. It was amazing, but getting there was pretty much a pain. First, on Thursday, we had a two hour train ride to Lyon, then we had to switch at Dijon and I had to ride in my first couchette, or sleeper train, from Dijon to Florence. The couchette was not nearly as bad as I thought it would be, but I would have enjoyed a nice complimentary breakfast when I woke up- no such luck. Regardless, we arrived on Friday morning an hour late, and Ally was waiting for us. Thank God for my responsible friends because we had trouble getting in touch with her but she waited at the train station for 90 minutes and met us there. We expected to nap as soon as we found our hostile, but then it took an hour and a half to find and considering none of us speak Italian it was pretty frustrating. Eventually a nice Italian man riding his bicycle heard us complaining that we can't find it and it turned out we were about ten feet away, he took us to the door. Once we got there, we threw our luggage down and started the day. We had a pastry and a cappuccino for breakfast then, of course, some pizza for lunch. It was delicious. After lunch we did some sight-seeing. We went to churches, the Ponte Vecchio, and a museum. We were able to see Michaelangelo's David which was really cool, and of course everyone snuck a picture, but when I tried the security guard came over and yelled at me in Italian. After touring a bit we had dinner at a spanish restaurant with some margaritas which were delicious. We also had some gelatto and I am thankful we do not have that here because it was delicious and I would probably eat it three times a day. After dessert, we went back and slept because we had a wine tour at 8am Saturday morning in Chianty.
Saturday was really cool. Ally made plans to us to go on a wine tour. First we went on a nice tour of the vineyards. By nice tour I really mean hike, but it was still fun. After seeing the vineyards and a couple of Italian churches we had a delicious lunch waiting for us complete with plenty of wine. We got t meet the man who produced the wine and he taught us how to properly swirl and sniff the wine to determine the alcohol content. It was really fun and it was exactly what I wanted to do in Italy. That night we went to an Italian restaurant where I probably had the best lasagna I have ever tasted.
Sunday, we spent 16 hours on a train. It was boring but we had food and ipods to keep us occupied. We had to go from Florence to Milan, then Milan to Nice and Nice to Montpellier. I loved seeing Ally and I am so greatful we got to go there!
Next we went to Spain...
So Italy, was February 18th until the 22nd. It was amazing, but getting there was pretty much a pain. First, on Thursday, we had a two hour train ride to Lyon, then we had to switch at Dijon and I had to ride in my first couchette, or sleeper train, from Dijon to Florence. The couchette was not nearly as bad as I thought it would be, but I would have enjoyed a nice complimentary breakfast when I woke up- no such luck. Regardless, we arrived on Friday morning an hour late, and Ally was waiting for us. Thank God for my responsible friends because we had trouble getting in touch with her but she waited at the train station for 90 minutes and met us there. We expected to nap as soon as we found our hostile, but then it took an hour and a half to find and considering none of us speak Italian it was pretty frustrating. Eventually a nice Italian man riding his bicycle heard us complaining that we can't find it and it turned out we were about ten feet away, he took us to the door. Once we got there, we threw our luggage down and started the day. We had a pastry and a cappuccino for breakfast then, of course, some pizza for lunch. It was delicious. After lunch we did some sight-seeing. We went to churches, the Ponte Vecchio, and a museum. We were able to see Michaelangelo's David which was really cool, and of course everyone snuck a picture, but when I tried the security guard came over and yelled at me in Italian. After touring a bit we had dinner at a spanish restaurant with some margaritas which were delicious. We also had some gelatto and I am thankful we do not have that here because it was delicious and I would probably eat it three times a day. After dessert, we went back and slept because we had a wine tour at 8am Saturday morning in Chianty.
Saturday was really cool. Ally made plans to us to go on a wine tour. First we went on a nice tour of the vineyards. By nice tour I really mean hike, but it was still fun. After seeing the vineyards and a couple of Italian churches we had a delicious lunch waiting for us complete with plenty of wine. We got t meet the man who produced the wine and he taught us how to properly swirl and sniff the wine to determine the alcohol content. It was really fun and it was exactly what I wanted to do in Italy. That night we went to an Italian restaurant where I probably had the best lasagna I have ever tasted.
Sunday, we spent 16 hours on a train. It was boring but we had food and ipods to keep us occupied. We had to go from Florence to Milan, then Milan to Nice and Nice to Montpellier. I loved seeing Ally and I am so greatful we got to go there!
Next we went to Spain...
Monday, February 16, 2009
Paris!
Okay, so there hasn't been much to talk about within the last week. I've been just getting into the routine of class, homework, going out. It's been fun, but nothing blog-worthy. Classes are going well, I still hate getting up every morning and I still hate doing homework every night, but who doesn't? I thought it would be better because I am in France, but it's still just as stressful as it would be at Oneonta. I love the weekends and the night life. We are meeting mostly French people so I haven't been speaking much English, which is a good thing, but sometimes I want to tell people that I am much more intelligent in English because I have much more to say and I can actually express myself. It's fine, though, because I have been learning a lot.
This weekend Molly and I shared a romantic weekend in Paris! We were each others Valentines =). Friday we got to see Sarah, which was really nice because I needed a little bit of Oneonta in my life. We ate falafel (my first time) and it was really good. After that, and a nutella crepe, of course, we went out for a few drinks. Kathleen (Sarah's housemate) and Sarah took us out to a pub at St. Germain. We had a lot of fun, and got home pretty late because we had to figure out the night bus, which is not as easy as figuring out the Oneonta night bus or the LIRR. It was fine, though because we got to see Paris at night, which has to be the most beautiful sight in the world.
Saturday we were able to sleep in, finally! Sarah, Molly and I took the metro to meet Colette (mollys host mom) at the hotel that we stayed at and then grabbed something to eat. After that, Molly, Colette and I went back to the hotel to get ready for our evening at the Opera. We went to see a ballet, which Colettes nephew, Benjamin, is a star dancer in. It was fabulous, the building itself was amazing and the dancers were magnifique. We had great seats (thanks Ben!) and then had a wonderful Valentine's dinner. Although I had an amazing time, I could not stop thinking about how much I missed my mom! I know it sounds ridiculous, but I just wanted to hop on a plane, see a Broadway play with her, have some NYC dinner and come right back. It was amazing, though.
On Sunday, we spent the day on the Champs-Elysées. We enjoyed a nice dinner and went to some stores that are too expensive to even look at. It really made me miss French 217 and everyone in it After we had ate and shopped- well, window shopped, we took a train back to Montpellier.
All in all I had a great time. Next weekend is Italy!!!
Bisous!
This weekend Molly and I shared a romantic weekend in Paris! We were each others Valentines =). Friday we got to see Sarah, which was really nice because I needed a little bit of Oneonta in my life. We ate falafel (my first time) and it was really good. After that, and a nutella crepe, of course, we went out for a few drinks. Kathleen (Sarah's housemate) and Sarah took us out to a pub at St. Germain. We had a lot of fun, and got home pretty late because we had to figure out the night bus, which is not as easy as figuring out the Oneonta night bus or the LIRR. It was fine, though because we got to see Paris at night, which has to be the most beautiful sight in the world.
Saturday we were able to sleep in, finally! Sarah, Molly and I took the metro to meet Colette (mollys host mom) at the hotel that we stayed at and then grabbed something to eat. After that, Molly, Colette and I went back to the hotel to get ready for our evening at the Opera. We went to see a ballet, which Colettes nephew, Benjamin, is a star dancer in. It was fabulous, the building itself was amazing and the dancers were magnifique. We had great seats (thanks Ben!) and then had a wonderful Valentine's dinner. Although I had an amazing time, I could not stop thinking about how much I missed my mom! I know it sounds ridiculous, but I just wanted to hop on a plane, see a Broadway play with her, have some NYC dinner and come right back. It was amazing, though.
On Sunday, we spent the day on the Champs-Elysées. We enjoyed a nice dinner and went to some stores that are too expensive to even look at. It really made me miss French 217 and everyone in it After we had ate and shopped- well, window shopped, we took a train back to Montpellier.
All in all I had a great time. Next weekend is Italy!!!
Bisous!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
=)
I have officially gone to all of my classes. They are actually not that bad, of course they are all in French. We've been getting a good amount of homework, which Molly and I do together a lot of the time and sometimes with the help of our families. It is all things we've done before, so far, which is good.
Today was the first day we saw the sun since Saturday. Apparently it is the rainy season right now, and although I am happy that it's not snow, the weather has been pretty bad. Nothing too exciting has happened recently. Molly and I tried to walk to town one day and we got extremely lost, ending up in Laverune, a near by city. We walked past a sign that said Montpellier with a big red X through it and did not think anything of it. Not one of our smartest moments. We had a nice walk though, talked a lot as always (and really fast, as everyone tells us; even our friends here commented on it).
The weekends are a lot of fun, we go out as a group and meet new people and my host family is really cool about me coming home late. On Saturday, Mollys host family went to a dinner party, so Molly, Kate, Katelyn, and I made a delicious dinner, baked some chocolate chip cookies and had a couple of bottles of wine. I am so greatful that my weekends start on Thursday!
One of my friends from the program has had a really hard time so far. She has been placed with 2 different families, already, and it is not going well. I was talking to my host mom about it and she suggested that we ask Elizabeth to live with us! There were a few rules set- first and most important, absolutely NO English while in the house. We promised, ut-oh. Also, no allergies to pets considering I have 3 cats and a dog. She loves animals (much more than I do), so that is not going to be a problem. Basically I am really excited and I think this will be the best thing for her. She seems really excited, too. Also, I'll have a friend my age and someone to gossip with and go out with. I have always shared a room, either with my sister or one of my closest friends at school, and I'll admit that I grew to love it. Although I will still have my own room, it will be nice to have someone here that I can hang out with like I would with my college roommates or family members.
Other than that, I'm pretty much having a great time and I can't wait until it gets nicer out. Molly calculated, 100 days until we come home! I can't believe it's almost been a whole month!
Miss you guys! Bisous!
Today was the first day we saw the sun since Saturday. Apparently it is the rainy season right now, and although I am happy that it's not snow, the weather has been pretty bad. Nothing too exciting has happened recently. Molly and I tried to walk to town one day and we got extremely lost, ending up in Laverune, a near by city. We walked past a sign that said Montpellier with a big red X through it and did not think anything of it. Not one of our smartest moments. We had a nice walk though, talked a lot as always (and really fast, as everyone tells us; even our friends here commented on it).
The weekends are a lot of fun, we go out as a group and meet new people and my host family is really cool about me coming home late. On Saturday, Mollys host family went to a dinner party, so Molly, Kate, Katelyn, and I made a delicious dinner, baked some chocolate chip cookies and had a couple of bottles of wine. I am so greatful that my weekends start on Thursday!
One of my friends from the program has had a really hard time so far. She has been placed with 2 different families, already, and it is not going well. I was talking to my host mom about it and she suggested that we ask Elizabeth to live with us! There were a few rules set- first and most important, absolutely NO English while in the house. We promised, ut-oh. Also, no allergies to pets considering I have 3 cats and a dog. She loves animals (much more than I do), so that is not going to be a problem. Basically I am really excited and I think this will be the best thing for her. She seems really excited, too. Also, I'll have a friend my age and someone to gossip with and go out with. I have always shared a room, either with my sister or one of my closest friends at school, and I'll admit that I grew to love it. Although I will still have my own room, it will be nice to have someone here that I can hang out with like I would with my college roommates or family members.
Other than that, I'm pretty much having a great time and I can't wait until it gets nicer out. Molly calculated, 100 days until we come home! I can't believe it's almost been a whole month!
Miss you guys! Bisous!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Classes!
Vacation is over, oh no! But classes seem pretty fun. Last weekend was alright, but because of some randomn wind storm, trees were blown over and my host parents suggested that I stay in. It was probably for the better. Monday night Mollys host mom bought us tickets to an algerian film, which was fun (I guess, haha). It was a cultural experience and I'm happy I went, but probably would never go again. Monday was the day we got our Schedules, also! Molly and I placed at the same level and somehow in the same group (probably because we live the same life), so we have every class together. I am really happy about that, we are also with some of our friends, Jeni and Katelyn, and have been meeting really cool people.
My schedule :
Monday- grammar (9-11)- business* (11-12:30)
Tuesday- oral expression (830-1030)- science* (11-1230)
Wednesday (Hell!!)- oral comprehension (9-1030)- civilization (1030-12)- literature (1-230)- grammar (3-5) - phonetics (5-6)
Thursday- written comprehension (830-10)- written expression (10-1130)
Friday- OFF!!!!
*Science and business are options, so we have to pick 1. We have until Tuesday to decide
Classes are going pretty well, though. I think I can already tell which class I'm going to struggle with most, which classes I'm going to love and which classes I'm going to fall asleep in =), although first impressions are not always true. Wedesdays are torture. I am happy to have most afternoons off, but I know if my professors from Oneonta are reading this they are smiling because they are not my 8:30 am profs this semester! To say the least, I am not exactly a morning person and the bus comes so early I've been waking up at like 6:30 every morning. I know, horrible! Fridays off is awesome, though and all of my profs seem really nice. As of right now, I'm still excited! I know that will wear off soon and I'll realize school is school no matter which country you are in, and start to complain about homework. Really, though, I am having a great time and I'm really happy to be here!
But I miss everyone from home like crazy! Hope you're all doing well! <3
My schedule :
Monday- grammar (9-11)- business* (11-12:30)
Tuesday- oral expression (830-1030)- science* (11-1230)
Wednesday (Hell!!)- oral comprehension (9-1030)- civilization (1030-12)- literature (1-230)- grammar (3-5) - phonetics (5-6)
Thursday- written comprehension (830-10)- written expression (10-1130)
Friday- OFF!!!!
*Science and business are options, so we have to pick 1. We have until Tuesday to decide
Classes are going pretty well, though. I think I can already tell which class I'm going to struggle with most, which classes I'm going to love and which classes I'm going to fall asleep in =), although first impressions are not always true. Wedesdays are torture. I am happy to have most afternoons off, but I know if my professors from Oneonta are reading this they are smiling because they are not my 8:30 am profs this semester! To say the least, I am not exactly a morning person and the bus comes so early I've been waking up at like 6:30 every morning. I know, horrible! Fridays off is awesome, though and all of my profs seem really nice. As of right now, I'm still excited! I know that will wear off soon and I'll realize school is school no matter which country you are in, and start to complain about homework. Really, though, I am having a great time and I'm really happy to be here!
But I miss everyone from home like crazy! Hope you're all doing well! <3
Friday, January 23, 2009
This week was pretty easy, so far. We had the past three days off, which is relly nice.
Tuesday.. Molly, Katelyn, and Kate came over for dinner and we watched the inauguration and the Obama speech. It was really nice and my host family is obsessed with Obama, so they were just as excited as we were. After that, we went to an English bar called Shakespeare and had some beer to celebrate =).
On Wednesday Molly and I decided to take a little walk and we ended up finding a chateau in a park near our houses. We decided to try and find a way to break in because its a castle and who wouldn't want to break into a castle? We also figure if we get arrested in France, we still don't have a record in the U.S., so it's a great opportunity. Anyway, we climbed the fence and then realized that people might live there and it is broad daylight, so we should probably go back in an evening. We took a walk into town instead and spent more money that we don't have on more shoes and clothes that we don't need. It was pretty great.
Yesterday, we decided to be spontaneous and jump on the TGV and go to Nimes, a town close to Montpellier. Of course, because we have such great luck, the train that we wanted to take at 10:21 AM wasn't running, and the train at 12:04 that we paid for was cancelled. Luckily there was another train heading in the direction we needed and we were able to take that one without paying extra, and we got to Nimes. It is beautiful there! and so interesting because it is SO old. First we had a delicious lunch and some wine, of course! After the restaurant, went to an arena that is over 2,000 years old and still used today. We also saw other historical monuments, but we weren't allowed inside to walk around like in the arena. Nimes is really pretty and we had a good time.
Today, we decided to go back to the Odysseum. Molly, Katelyn, Kate and Taylor went bowling. We had a lot of fun, Molly was able to show off some skills, and I managed to do the worst both times. Go figure. I hope to go back there soon, maybe at night to some of the pubs or the beer making factory that Molly's host dad basically told me has the best beer in Montpellier.
Tomorrow we have to get up early to see how Roquefort cheese is made. It should be fun and hopefully we can taste-test while we are there =)
Sunday, January 18, 2009
I was definately wrong about today being relaxing. Molly's family asked me to go with them and we went to an Abbaye near the Mediterranean Sea. This church was rebuilt in 1037, so you can imagine old it is. The floor we stood on had 32 people burried underneath and the tombs that are raised have the most important people inside of them. It was fascinating to hear the information. Because the church was right next to the Med, we had to stop there! It was gorgeous, like absolutely amazing. I can not wait until it is warmer out and I can go swimming in it!
After we saw these two places, we went to L'Odysseum. They pretty much have everything there; restaurants of every ethnicity, a beer brewing station (you know I'm going back there), rock climbing, bowling, go-karting, aquarium, planitarium, movie theatre, ice-skating, clubs, pubs, and so much more..basically everything. It was really cool and Molly and I are already planning our next trip there, sometime this week. We sat down for a few minutes after that and enjoyed some popcorn. In France, they put SUGAR on their popcorn instead of salt and butter. Ha, so strange. But I had so much fun. We just got back and I'm about to sit down to another wonderful dinner =)
So, I got through the first week!
This weekend was pretty relaxing. Friday, we did not have anything planned until 4:00. We went to a museum- Le Musee Fabre, and it was pretty cool. I really liked some of the paintings and the stories behind them, but we had a guided tour and there were some peices that I would have looked at if I were on my own that we walked right past, and some that we looked at that I would have walked right past. It was nice though, I enjoyed it.
At night, Molly and I went to a brasserie and enjoyed a bottle of wine while checking out the Montpellier night life. We had a really good time.
Yesterday we went shopping and did some serious damage because our clothes just weren't French enough! We made sure to look for sales and tried to be smart about what we bought. We also had a delicious lunch at a cafe downtown that I will definately be going back to! We continued to shop and after spending every last cent that we had on us, we returned home for dinner.
I made my family try American peanut butter and then they blind folded me and said that I wouldn't be able to tell the difference. Do they know who I am? I used to eat peanut butter for 3 meals a day! So, of course I proved them wrong and was able to tell right away which one was Skippy =) I also had them try Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, which they have never seen.
After dinner Molly, Kaitlin and I went out and met some of our friends for some drinks. We had a really fun time and met some new people from other countries, which is always nice. We sat at a cafe and shared bottles of wine and some fun stories.
Today is probably just a relaxing day. For the first time since we have arrived here the weather isn't really nice. Tonight I am meeting my 30 year old 'brother' and his wife and they are staying for dinner.
Try to keep warm at home!
Miss And Love You All
This weekend was pretty relaxing. Friday, we did not have anything planned until 4:00. We went to a museum- Le Musee Fabre, and it was pretty cool. I really liked some of the paintings and the stories behind them, but we had a guided tour and there were some peices that I would have looked at if I were on my own that we walked right past, and some that we looked at that I would have walked right past. It was nice though, I enjoyed it.
At night, Molly and I went to a brasserie and enjoyed a bottle of wine while checking out the Montpellier night life. We had a really good time.
Yesterday we went shopping and did some serious damage because our clothes just weren't French enough! We made sure to look for sales and tried to be smart about what we bought. We also had a delicious lunch at a cafe downtown that I will definately be going back to! We continued to shop and after spending every last cent that we had on us, we returned home for dinner.
I made my family try American peanut butter and then they blind folded me and said that I wouldn't be able to tell the difference. Do they know who I am? I used to eat peanut butter for 3 meals a day! So, of course I proved them wrong and was able to tell right away which one was Skippy =) I also had them try Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, which they have never seen.
After dinner Molly, Kaitlin and I went out and met some of our friends for some drinks. We had a really fun time and met some new people from other countries, which is always nice. We sat at a cafe and shared bottles of wine and some fun stories.
Today is probably just a relaxing day. For the first time since we have arrived here the weather isn't really nice. Tonight I am meeting my 30 year old 'brother' and his wife and they are staying for dinner.
Try to keep warm at home!
Miss And Love You All
Thursday, January 15, 2009
So, yesterday we went on a hike to St. Guilhem after a tastey French picnic (basically a lot of cheese and bread). It was absolutely beautiful and so much fun! Of course, because I am directionally challenged, and apparently not the only one, me and the 3 people I was with got lost, but we had a great time doing it. We got to see some amazing sights and had some interesting conversations.
Today we had some boring meetings and a little introduction to French cooking classes. I will not be taking those, as most of you could probably guess. We also had a little welcome party with some delicious French desserts and some wine and champagne, of course. I really love the girls i have met, you can pretty much put us anywhere and we will have fun!
AND I had another delicious dinner. My French mom is a great cook, and some traditional january cake. So GOOD.
Below I have attatched some pictures of our hike, so you can be jealous =), and some of the girls that I know will be included in stories to come!
Today we had some boring meetings and a little introduction to French cooking classes. I will not be taking those, as most of you could probably guess. We also had a little welcome party with some delicious French desserts and some wine and champagne, of course. I really love the girls i have met, you can pretty much put us anywhere and we will have fun!
AND I had another delicious dinner. My French mom is a great cook, and some traditional january cake. So GOOD.
Below I have attatched some pictures of our hike, so you can be jealous =), and some of the girls that I know will be included in stories to come!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Hey guys,
Finally, I have fifteen minutes to myself to fill you in. You'd be surprised how busy you are in France before classes even start.
First of all, Molly and I must have had one of the worst travel experiences ever. Everything was fine until we decided that we wanted some dessert and coffee before boarding our 10 PM flight. That must be where we went wrong; Molly paid for her things with a debit card and placed it in her back pocket.. After we ate some delicious airport food, we decided to go to the bathroom before boarding the plane. Of course, Mollys debit card fell out of her back pocket and went right down the toilet. Thanks to technological advances like automatic flushers at JFK, Molly lost her only source of money. We boarded the plane and sat down, both of us pretty tired because it was 10 pm and we both waited until that day to pack so we were up early. We expected to get to Paris at 11AM France time.
Of course not- There was a problem with the thruster and the plane couldnt take off. After about an hour waiting there the thruster was ready to go, and then the plane had to be de-iced. This 20 minute process turned into another hour of sitting and waiting because the chemicals used to de-ice the plane were contaminated. Finally at midnight, we took off.
Because of the delay, we missed our 1:00 PM train to Montpellier, which would have gotten us there at 5PM. Instead, we had to sit in the airport in Paris, where they apparently do not believe in heat, with all of our luggage and wait 3 hours. At 4 PM we go to catch the next train to Montpellier, which of course was late by a half hour and we had to carry all of our luggage (2 50lb siutcases and 1 40lb carry on each) onto the train and sit. Our luggage was heavy so we just threw it on there and sat down, not in our assigned seats because we wanted to ride together. Well, we picked the wrong seats because about 10 minutes later a family came and made us move. We, then went to find our assigned seats; Molly had a man sleeping in hers and I had a guy on his laptop in mine. We found eachother and sat down together. Once again- wrong seats, a lady and her two kids came on and we had to move. Finally, we sat down and were not thrown out and rode the rest of the way together.
Okay, so its about 830 PM on Sunday Montpellier time (230 PM in NY) and we have been up since saturday morning, going on about 2 hours of sleep in the plane. Our families live very close and happen to be good friends, so luckily they came together, we met up with them and parted ways.
My family is really nice. I have a mom a dad a sixteen year old brother. At first I was really homesick and upset. I couldn't eat or sleep and i pretty much felt depressed. My family was really understanding and accommodating and helped me out so much. Anne (my mom) cooks dinner every night (a little cliche because there is cheese wine and bread with every meal, but who doesnt like alcohol and carbs?) and has breakfast and coffee waiting for me in the morning when I wake up. I also have three cats and a dog, very friendly and well-behaved. We have great conversations and I really get along with my "parents". I have my own room and share a bathroom with Maxime (my 'bro'). It is very comfortable and homey here. Anne is similar to my mom- she was very concerned when I didn't eat and did everything in her power to make me feel comfortable. Her and Jacques (french dad) did a great job because I'm doing great. I am also happy Molly lives right down the street and her family is great, too!
Aside from that, we have a week or so of orientation, which includes tests and tours. We also have some free time to do some exploring and shopping =) and of course eating at the cafes. Everyone we met in our program so far seem awesome- really nice and we mix well together. It is helpful to have them there and I hope we stay in touch or get put in the same classes!
Honestly, I really feel Molly and I made the right choice- everyone here is so sweet and I have learned more in the past few days then I could have dreamed.
Hope everyone's doing alright =)
MISS YOU ALL and I'd love to hear what you're up to!
Finally, I have fifteen minutes to myself to fill you in. You'd be surprised how busy you are in France before classes even start.
First of all, Molly and I must have had one of the worst travel experiences ever. Everything was fine until we decided that we wanted some dessert and coffee before boarding our 10 PM flight. That must be where we went wrong; Molly paid for her things with a debit card and placed it in her back pocket.. After we ate some delicious airport food, we decided to go to the bathroom before boarding the plane. Of course, Mollys debit card fell out of her back pocket and went right down the toilet. Thanks to technological advances like automatic flushers at JFK, Molly lost her only source of money. We boarded the plane and sat down, both of us pretty tired because it was 10 pm and we both waited until that day to pack so we were up early. We expected to get to Paris at 11AM France time.
Of course not- There was a problem with the thruster and the plane couldnt take off. After about an hour waiting there the thruster was ready to go, and then the plane had to be de-iced. This 20 minute process turned into another hour of sitting and waiting because the chemicals used to de-ice the plane were contaminated. Finally at midnight, we took off.
Because of the delay, we missed our 1:00 PM train to Montpellier, which would have gotten us there at 5PM. Instead, we had to sit in the airport in Paris, where they apparently do not believe in heat, with all of our luggage and wait 3 hours. At 4 PM we go to catch the next train to Montpellier, which of course was late by a half hour and we had to carry all of our luggage (2 50lb siutcases and 1 40lb carry on each) onto the train and sit. Our luggage was heavy so we just threw it on there and sat down, not in our assigned seats because we wanted to ride together. Well, we picked the wrong seats because about 10 minutes later a family came and made us move. We, then went to find our assigned seats; Molly had a man sleeping in hers and I had a guy on his laptop in mine. We found eachother and sat down together. Once again- wrong seats, a lady and her two kids came on and we had to move. Finally, we sat down and were not thrown out and rode the rest of the way together.
Okay, so its about 830 PM on Sunday Montpellier time (230 PM in NY) and we have been up since saturday morning, going on about 2 hours of sleep in the plane. Our families live very close and happen to be good friends, so luckily they came together, we met up with them and parted ways.
My family is really nice. I have a mom a dad a sixteen year old brother. At first I was really homesick and upset. I couldn't eat or sleep and i pretty much felt depressed. My family was really understanding and accommodating and helped me out so much. Anne (my mom) cooks dinner every night (a little cliche because there is cheese wine and bread with every meal, but who doesnt like alcohol and carbs?) and has breakfast and coffee waiting for me in the morning when I wake up. I also have three cats and a dog, very friendly and well-behaved. We have great conversations and I really get along with my "parents". I have my own room and share a bathroom with Maxime (my 'bro'). It is very comfortable and homey here. Anne is similar to my mom- she was very concerned when I didn't eat and did everything in her power to make me feel comfortable. Her and Jacques (french dad) did a great job because I'm doing great. I am also happy Molly lives right down the street and her family is great, too!
Aside from that, we have a week or so of orientation, which includes tests and tours. We also have some free time to do some exploring and shopping =) and of course eating at the cafes. Everyone we met in our program so far seem awesome- really nice and we mix well together. It is helpful to have them there and I hope we stay in touch or get put in the same classes!
Honestly, I really feel Molly and I made the right choice- everyone here is so sweet and I have learned more in the past few days then I could have dreamed.
Hope everyone's doing alright =)
MISS YOU ALL and I'd love to hear what you're up to!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Before I Go!
Hey guys!
I leave for France Saturday and thought I would give you all some contact information before I go! With a six hour time difference, it will be hard to talk with you as much as I would like, so I plan to update my blog and let you all know what is going on so, I hope you enjoy it.
First of all, E-mail is probably the most convenient way to communicate. My e-mail address is Lubije13@oneonta.edu. I plan on checking my e-mail daily. I also have a facebook, so feel free to use that.
I have a webcam and downloaded Skype. This application is free and it will allow us to see eachother, hear eachother, and message. If you have a webcam, this is my preferred method. My skype name is Lubije13.
My cell phone number will be (33) 679 983 115. I have free incoming calls, but international rates will apply for you, so be careful!
As most of you know, I am staying with a family, so just in case you want to send mail, the address I will be at is:
Villa 144 rue du Tourtourel
34070 MONTPELLIER
Keep in Touch!
I leave for France Saturday and thought I would give you all some contact information before I go! With a six hour time difference, it will be hard to talk with you as much as I would like, so I plan to update my blog and let you all know what is going on so, I hope you enjoy it.
First of all, E-mail is probably the most convenient way to communicate. My e-mail address is Lubije13@oneonta.edu. I plan on checking my e-mail daily. I also have a facebook, so feel free to use that.
I have a webcam and downloaded Skype. This application is free and it will allow us to see eachother, hear eachother, and message. If you have a webcam, this is my preferred method. My skype name is Lubije13.
My cell phone number will be (33) 679 983 115. I have free incoming calls, but international rates will apply for you, so be careful!
As most of you know, I am staying with a family, so just in case you want to send mail, the address I will be at is:
Villa 144 rue du Tourtourel
34070 MONTPELLIER
Keep in Touch!
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