Day 2: Flights, Fatigue, and Finally...Hamburg
- iylahernden
- Jul 29, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 27, 2025
I do not know what day it is, and 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 airport germs. The German participants started arriving gradually, and 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 insisted that 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 explore Hamburg. From what I have seen so far, Hamburg is beautiful; It's sprinkling, with a cool breeze, and the 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 trees that cover the area, or in the sleek, modern architecture. It is in the quietness of the city. 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 store where I'd normally expect crying, yelling, and loud conversations, there's none of that chaos. Germans speak with a harsh, distinct tongue, but somehow everything feels quieter.
I don't travel often, or at all, especially not this far. My body is desperately trying to keep me sane, safe, and awake, it is easy for me to forget where I am. I keep having to remind myself: I am in a different country. It's forced me to slow down, look around, and experience something new. I've already begun to notice some of the cultural differences and similarities. It's the small act of noticing that makes everything feel real. Even if you're not in a new country, you can always slow down, look, and see something in a new light. Time feels like it's already slipping away, but I'm determined to make the most of this experience.
I have noticed a few little things about Germany that quickly separate it from the U.S. 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 learned this the hard way by ripping all of my bottle caps off before someone told me they are supposed to stay connected. I am also surprised to see creative, colorful graffiti painted across fences, train tracks, and buildings, each one adding character to the city. You can still find graffiti in the states however, the laws are much stricter about art in public spaces.
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!
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.
Comments