After being abroad for two weeks and visiting six countries, there are many things I have learned about the business world in Europe and the culture as well. To begin with, after our various company visits with industry professionals and leaders in their craft, such as artists that make violins and gondolas, or a well-established jewelry company, Swarovski. Many aim at creating a career they love and find joy in. In other words, they don’t work to live. They prefer a slower, calmer life. Shops closed earlier than in the U.S. and restaurants close in the afternoon to prepare for a later dinner. Much different than in the U.S. where work culture is very fast pace and consumes one’s social life and home life. In addition to the contrasting work culture, the food was variously different. The fruit and food were much fresher, even the McDonald’s tasted fresher and tastier. They have fruit stands at almost every corner, where you can see the quality and freshness of the fruits, and possibly the strawberries were some of the best I have ever tasted. Everything was so open and inviting. The restaurants had outdoor seating and encouraged mingling and interactions, and didn’t care how long you stayed or whether you only wanted drinks and no food. Everything was built around living in the present. For instance, I was laying on the beach on a Monday afternoon, I was surrounded by locals who were able to take the time to enjoy the beach and live in the moment. This is a privilege that is sadly not available in the U.S. for the working man. Everything that I saw from Switzerland in the beginning of my time abroad to ending in Italy. Every place was beautiful and rich in culture and history.
