Friday, July 9, 2010

Lost in a big city

So it's been a wee while since my last post - but I have been so preoccupied that I have neglected this a bit. The good news is, I now have a flat! Close to central Berlin with two germans - which is about as much as I could have ever asked for.
The language barrier is still tough - but starting another course on Monday so all is good. Praying for fluency, however I don't expect it'll come anytime soon. And I'm also starting to apply for jobs so that I can stay over here in Europe.
The feeling of missing out on life back home is starting to become a little overwhelming - with my sisters 21st in the weekend, and my Dad flying off to Perth, I have little idea of what really is going on back home. Also, without having a close group of friends here with whom I can speak easily (and fluently), I sometimes question the intelligence of what I've done. Well, as they say, nothing ventured nothing gained - and I'm sure I'd regret not coming to Europe a lot more than coming here and toughing it out.
The world cup here is mad - I was on the fanmeile (a big fan street in the middle of Berlin) to watch the Germany Spain game. Even after having flags painted all over me (and being yelled at by Germans for wearing German flags when I'm not German) it still did not do much to help Germany win. However, it was still awesome to be there amongst thousands and thousands of people and was a good night out. It reminds me of just how small New Zealand is. Especially when I catch trains in the wrong direction, and it takes me 3 or 4 stations before I notice.
Starting to miss little things about New Zealand - like just how good our supermarkets are, or how easy our banks are to use. As it turns out, not all German banks accept deposits in cash. Utterly bizarre.
Although life here is fun, I can't wait to get out and explore other countries - I have so far spent nearly 6 weeks here in Berlin so I think I should probably get a crack on before I get stuck in a routine. Eagerly awaiting a mate of mine coming over to visit in August - hopefully we will be checking out Italy and France next month!
Anyway, when I have more substantial news, I will write again.

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