Sanssouci = Without Worries
Is it really possible only one week has passed since our arrival? From the moment our plane landed and we stepped foot on the streets of this vibrant city, we've been going....nonstop. With all of the anticipation of this big move abroad, we were willing and ready to jump right in and tackle all looming threats of jetlag, culture shock, etc. And I'd say we've done OK so far!
In the last 7 days, we've learned to navigate the trains (which involved missing a few, of course!) and at the same time realized that our legs were in for a huge shock! Like in most cities, you walk, and walk and walk to get anywhere and everywhere. Well, without a car (and no plans to have one), we've been adjusting to this new and necessesary form of daily exercise.
Over the weekend we were lucky enough to get 2 private insider tours of the city. Jong, an American who works with Matt, walked us around the city for hours and hours on Saturday, showing us all the hotspots in the up-and-coming Berlin neighborhoods. We instantly were attracted to these funky neigborhoods nestled in what used to be East Berlin. Rent here is still relatively inexpenisve, and the area is packed with cafes, pubs, parks and theaters. On Sunday, we attended brunch at the home of another of Matt's colleagues, Paul. He and his family live in West Berlin, a nice area that tends to be a bit more pricy and quiet. So much to take in, but our explorations have been very helpful in helping us narrow down the neighborhoods that are right for us.
Other accomplishments include getting cell phones, opening a bank account, and registering our (temporary) address. All of these steps are necessary for securing a flat, so we are on our way to finding our first home here in Berlin! All in all, we are adjusting well and are enjoying each day. We are super motivated at this point to LEARN German, so we will definitely look into classes in the near future. Until next time....aufwiedersehen!
Walking towards Sansouci in Postdam
Our "welcome" basket
The coffee here is the BEST!
Matt's a little suspicious of what's coming behind him-
Touring Potsdam in the fall = gorgeous!
2 comments:
How great that you made it! Keep the pictures coming so we can see more of this historic city Berlin. Where are the Obama signs?
Wow Laura! Sounds like you guys have just drove in head first! That is great! Keep us updated on your adventures in Berlin as well as you working? How did things go with the Principal? What are you doing to fill your days while Matt works? Are the people there friendly, that you've met on the streets? When will your Mom and Sis come visit you? Are they waiting till you and Matt have a place? Has the weather been nice?
Tschuss!
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