Hamburg

There is so much to say about Hamburg, Germany. This is probably the greenest place I have ever seen! It has rained every day since I arrived on Thursday except for one. I have been busy exploring this beautiful city and learning so much about the German culture. -The people here are very passionate about every aspect of their lives, especially sports! Yesterday, Hendrik and I went to the soccer (fútbol) game between Hamburg and Köln.. What an experience that was. Every person in the stadium (70,000 strong) was yelling and cheering on their team for the duration of the game! In the end, Hamburg ended up losing 3-4 but the game was fun nonetheless. 


Both Friday and Saturday nights were spent clubbing. The clubs here are completely different than what you would find in Lubbock or most parts of the United States. Techno and House music are the major genres you hear in the clubs. They do play some Rap and Hip Hop but not nearly as much as they do back in the states. Additionally, when Germans "go out" for the night, they mean the ENTIRE night. I was not home until six or seven in the morning both Friday and Saturday night. I was able to meet some of Hendrik's closest friends. -They were very nice and made me feel like I had known them for quite some time. 


From a historical viewpoint, you cannot go more than a few minutes without seeing something of significance. In downtown Hamburg it is common to see a very old building with beautiful architecture directly next to a newer building that is not nearly as nice. The city is like this because of WWII. When the world was at war with Germany, random bombings occurred throughout the city and destroyed many buildings. Looking even closer, you can see the remnants of bomb shelters in the subways. There are metal sections in the entryways where solid steel doors (two feet thick) once stood to protect Hamburg's citizens from the bombings. Seeing these things were both sad and interesting at the same time. Part of me felt sad knowing amazing buildings were destroyed while another part of me felt fascinated by how integrated history is throughout the city. 


My time in Hamburg has been amazing so far! I am sure there will be much more to talk about by the end of my stay here in Germany. 

"Guns Up" at the game. 

Ready for takeoff!

Let the adventure begin! I cannot believe the day to head to Europe has finally come! I have been waiting for August 24^th since I was accepted into CIMBA during the spring semester. In just under nine hours, I will be in the air on my way to Dallas and then finally on to Hamburg. I am feeling a mix of emotions: happy, nervous, anxious, and ecstatic! I know people always say stress occurs before a big trip and THIS is definitely one of those moments. – Between traveling around the globe on my own (in some of the world’s biggest airports) and knowing that I am leaving behind my closest friends and family, I cannot help but feel these emotions! I have always considered myself independent and capable of most things, this will be a true test of my abilities.  Will I make it to my gates on time? Will I be able to successfully navigate through foreign countries? Have I packed everything I need? These are the thoughts and questions running through my mind.

That aside, the days leading up to this adventure have been interesting to say the least. At one point, I realized I did not have the financial calculator I was supposed to be bringing. –Thank you overnight shipping from Amazon! Today, I spent most of my time buying every travel-sized gizmo imaginable. Did you know they have chewable toothpaste tablets that are supposed to work just as well as regular brushing? Yeah, I definitely bought some.  And finally, the last six hours of my life were spent packing, unpacking, and repacking. Initially, I started out with three full suitcases but quickly realized carrying all three would be a bigger task than I was up for. I had to unpack everything and carefully evaluate which items were necessity and which items I could live without. Let me tell you, I am not the greatest decision maker! Eventually, the hard choices were made and I successfully reduced my luggage to two bags (one big, one small).

I am pretty excited to be flying on British Airways. I have never flown with them before but I have heard great things. I think deep down I am subconsciously hoping for a fancy teatime during our flight, biscuits and all! They ARE British, right? This American can only hope they stick to their roots. In the meantime, I shall get some sleep and dream about my upcoming adventure in Europe.

Ciao!

Let the countdown begin!

I can't believe my study abroad experience begins in exactly one week. My actual study abroad program does't begin until the 4th of September, but I'm heading to Germany to stay with my friend, Hendrik Schur, and immerse myself in everything Germany (Hamburg) has to offer! As the nations second largest city and one of Europe's biggest ports, there will be plenty to do in Hamburg. It should be a pretty awesome time between the beer, bratwurst, and fútbol! For now, it's time to start packing... 

Our tickets to the upcoming game!