The past
few days of orientation and finally moving into the apartment have been
absolutely wonderful. I’m not going to say that I haven’t run into any bumps
along the way. There are those many awkward moments of figuring out where I
belong, but all around I’m having the time of my life. It may be premature to
say such a thing, but I am in awe of this country. Orientation was basically
filled with many lectures, meeting new people, eating great food and exploring
the town of Mariazell (and also the Austrian way of life!). Mariazell is a
beautiful little town set in the countryside of Styria (Steiermark). We played
Austrian trivia for tons of Austrian candy, watched a traditional folkdance by
some locals, learned how to waltz, and played Kegelbahn (Austrian bowling). We
also got to explore Mariazell, where we visited the Heimathaus (folkart museum)
and the legendary basilica, and bought medicinal schnapps and lebkuchen
(gingerbread). There were quite a few sightings of the traditional lederhosen
as well. One day we took a trip to hike around and see the pristine waters of a
nearby lake. I couldn’t even begin to describe these picturesque places. They
really do appear to come right out of a storybook. It’s unbelievable.
I have to
mention the many encounters with Nutella I have had since getting here. They
put in everything and I had no idea it was such a big thing over here. Let me just tell you! The other night’s
dessert was a fluffy dough ball filled with warm, flowing Nutella served with a
cranberry relish. The food is so pure and fresh here. I have so much more to
try while I’m here. I’ve also been getting a taste of what it’s like to drink
in Europe. I don’t even mind that I won’t be celebrating my 21st
American style. Walking up to a bar and simply ordering a Gösser doesn’t seem quite right, but I think
I can get used to it. You haven’t had beer until you’ve had Austrian beer.
Today was
move-in day into the apartment on Eslarngasse, right near the center of the
city (and conveniently very close to the IES center where my classes are
located). This is all so new to me but at the same time it feels so natural.
Molly, Carol and Maggie are my three roommates and they are wonderful! We have a
nice little kitchen with a gas stove that we actually have to put a lighter to.
I’ll be praying that I don’t leave a burnt down apartment at the end of the
semester. And what do you know, the dining room is quaintly situated in the
heart of my and Molly’s bedroom (let’s see how that one goes…) All in all it’s
a small, but beautiful, Viennese apartment. I think it will work out just fine!
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