Day 2: Flights, Fatigue, and Finally...Hamburg

A perfect, yet fleeting view of NYC

I do not know what day it is, but I do know I haven't slept in at least 24 hours. After what felt like an endless series of airport lines, cramped seats (probably the most uncomfortable I've ever been), and questionable airplane meals, my group and I finally arrived in Hamburg!

We took no time getting settled into the hostel, unpacking quickly and washing off the airplane air. The German participants started arriving gradually, as everyone got situated in their rooms. I am almost certain we were all either fighting off sleep or already fast asleep within the hour. Unfortunately, our program managers insist we stay awake until nightfall to help "reset" our internal clocks. Let's just say, some people broke the rules. The only thing keeping me awake right now is the prospect of seeing more of the city. Aside from a little train travel and a quick visit to the convenience store, I have yet to truly explore Hamburg. From what I have seen so far, Hamburg is beautiful; It's drizzling, with a cool breeze, and an occasional burst of sunshine. Honestly, I could live contentedly in this weather forever.

Another factor I find wonderful about Hamburg is its public transit system, which consists of trains and buses that run across the city. Unlike back home in New Mexico, the transit is clean and always full of people. You are lucky to find an empty train car. There is also a dedicated bike lane, right in the middle of the sidewalk, and it feels like a constant safety hazard. Now, I am paranoid of getting hit, but at least Germany is saving the environment, one bike at a time.

Nonetheless, the beauty of Hamburg is not just in the tall trees tucked between buildings, or the sleek, modern architecture. It is in the quiet. Yes, I hear the trains, buses, and people, but it's not the kind of noise you hear in the United States. Even at a grocery store and a convenience stores where I'd normally expect crying, yelling, and loud conversations, there's none of that chaos. Germans speak with a very distinct tongue, but somehow everything feels quieter. And for once, the quiet is exactly what I crave.

 I don't travel often, especially not this far, or to a place that is vastly different. And when your body is desperately trying to keep you sane, safe, and awake, it is easy to forget where you are. I keep having to remind myself: I am in a different country. It's forced me to slow down, look around, and truly experience the world around me-cataloging the cultural differences and similarities-because these weeks will past faster than I can fully grasp. It's the small act of noticing that is makes it feel real. Even if you're not in a new country, maybe you can still see something in a new light, if you slow down, look, and truly experience what's around you. Time already feels like it's slipping away, but I'm determined to get it back with observation.

Lately, I have noticed that it is the little things that make us culturally different and the reasons behind those differences are often the most interesting. For example, the first surprise was that plastic bottles here don't fully unscrew; they are designed to stay intact and easy to reseal (this could be because of environmental waste management). I am also surprised to see creative, colorful graffiti painted across fences, train tracks, and buildings, each one adding character to the city.

In the hours and days coming, I look forward to getting to know my roommates better, as we exchange our cultures and find common ground; Although I am not sure what to expect. Tonight I will eat my first traditional German dinner, commonly served cold with cheese, sausage, and bread (very odd foods, I know). And today, in the convenience store, I proudly spoke what little German I knew in public for the first time. I look forward to learning more every day.

Today is just the beginning. Check back tomorrow when our first real workshop on Transatlantic relations begins, and so do the get-to-know-you's. See you soon!

Bread section at the local grocery store

Enjoy some snapshots from my journey: rooftop views from the hostel, my group playing cards at the airport, tempting NYC merchandise, unsatisfactory airplane food, and our arrival in Hamburg, Germany.