June 2012
43 posts
Adieu
After an eventful four weeks, it’s finally time for us to say our goodbyes to Europe. Right now, I can’t even begin to reflect on everything we’ve learned and experienced. This trip has been fun at the same time it’s been challenging, and that in and of itself has made it memorable.
If anything at all, I’m so glad for the peculiar melange of people we’ve met...
Midnight train to Paris
After 15 hours on the night train, a transfer to the Paris metro and then another transfer to the RER, we have finally made it to Maryam’s cousin’s home. The night train is awful. We don’t want to go into the details, though we did meet two funny Frenchman who shared our cabin: David, a juggler from Normandy, and Jonathan, a biologist from Lyon.
We are so happy to be in the...
Things we've learned about Berlin
1. Everything is much cheaper—a cup of coffee is literally half the price of a cup in Paris
2. The metro (U- or S-bahn) is significantly newer, cleaner, and more efficient than the one in Paris
3. Politeness counts, especially when you barely speak German. It will probably save you from a humiliating exchange with a waiter, bartender, or store owner.
4. Most things are not walking...
WatchOur apartment in Berlin is made for giants.
Berlin
After 6+ hours on the train we finally made it to Berlin! This city is gigantic, and considerably more intimidating than cute little Amsterdam. Also, everyone is very tall—again. Kreuzberg, our neighborhood, seems pretty industrial and is covered in graffiti like most of Berlin, though all in all it feels safe. We were directed to a yummy restaurant for dinner and found a nice bar to grab a...
WatchSome charming German countryside. Yes, we are riding on the train backwards. That’s what you get in second class.
So far, so good
In Amsterdam, we finally get some peace and quiet. Unlike the touristy bustle of Paris, Amsterdam is calm, clean, and pretty to look at. We spent the better part of the day walking along the canals, finding cool spots to eat and shop, and taking in the scenery at Vondel Park. Things are also significantly cheaper here, so our wallets are taking a nice vacation as well.
Carolyn, our Airbnb host,...
WatchWe made it to Amsterdam!! So stoked about our incredible apartment.
Paris is dirty
Despite however pretty this city may appear, it doesn’t take much for one to realize just how filthy and rat-infested it actually is. By now, you all probably think I’m obsessed with how much poop is on the streets—and I am. It is disgusting. I will never stop talking about it. Even worse, every few blocks it smells like sewage, body odor, or both. It seems to be some sort...
May 2012
63 posts
Une bonne anniversaire
Thanks to all for the birthday wishes! Having a ball on this beautiful afternoon. So glad that Brad, Morgan, and James have joined us here in Paris. We will be picnicking for dinner at Butte Chaumont until late in the night because Paris allows one to do these types of things. Drinks on me when I get back.
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