It has been a week since I arrived in Strasbourg, France. I have never left the U.S. and although I have read and studied about other countries’ cultures, history, governments, fashion, & art, I was still shocked when experiencing it myself. An obvious difference is language. I am fluent in both English and Spanish & started studying French on Duolingo a year ago. In France, I have been able to get around alright and order at restaurants. I have found myself struggling to say more and understand. I feel more inspired to learn french as my 3rd language. In Switzerland, they spoke German and I was very lost and struggled. In Italy, since Italian is similar to Spanish I had a very easy time in Italy. Some differences I have noticed in general lots of little differences. Of course, everything is smaller. Here are what I have deemed to be good differences, the architecture is so varied and beautiful, the food is so much better and I don’t have stomach pain after eating as I do in the U.S., the tap water is just like bottled water, you can walk everywhere, public transportation is good, wine is cheap and available everywhere, gelato and things are cheaper. Some differences I have had trouble with are lack of interest rates, paying to use public bathrooms, 2 & single euros being coins, lack of meat as an option on many menus, lack of ranch, the different voltages for plugs, and converters, and lack of soap in bathrooms. Also, my shoes get dirty really easily and when walking in the sun all day leaves you sweaty. However, those are little things and I am already getting used to them.
I love France and Italy. I am Catholic and have loved going to all the Cathedrals and important monuments. I would move to Rome tomorrow if I could. It is the most amazing place I have ever been to. I have also loved the classes I am taking and Dr. Rossi and our french professors are so knowledgeable. All the students in the program are smart and great people and I have made good friends already. I am excited for the next 4 weeks and to keep learning!
