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WEEK 1
I'm here! First lets start with the craziness of actually getting here. I traveled with Jenn, Izzy, James and Brad. The flight from Boston was good, about as good as a six and half hour flight gets. However, our layover in Manchester, England was a nightmare. I flew out of Orlando the day after Hurricane Charlie hit, and I can honestly say that Manchester was in worse shape. We probably stood in about 10 different lines and used every minute of our 3 hour layover. We got to our gate approximately 13 minutes before our plane left. There were times in Manchester off so much stress to get to our flight that some of us wanted to cry. We had to go through immigration just to switch planes. It is a real representation of the UK's tight security. It is completely understandable, with the London scare not so long ago. However, it was an interesting experience that I hope I don't have to deal with again. It is very uncomfortable to be so far from home, in a foreign country, and faced with missing your flight in such a mayhem. Though the five of us made it through. It wasn't until we arrived in Lyon, that we found out Troy had not made it through the disaster and missed the fight we were suppose to take with him. When we arrived in Lyon, it was the complete opposite of the UK. Technically, they don't know that we are even in the country right now. We got our bags and walked out, no immigration or customs. It is very strange considering how annoying the visa process was, but we made it :)
We met Paul, of Paul and Sharon, our mentors here. They are great people who have helped us out tremendously these first few days. Paul brought us to our residence in Villeurbanne, just outside the actual city of Lyon. It is very cute, with the big entry ways and a huge window in each of the rooms. Very french in my opinion. I really like the location. There are shops, restaurants, and a grocery store very close. At first, it didn't seem like I was even in France. It was different, but still very similar. I think it is strange how you expect such a difference in look, but in reality streets are streets and homes are homes. However, when I went to the grocery store and just around our residence, the shock that I was there set in. I have a feeling that the language barrier may be an issue afterall. I've always heard that most of Europe knows english, because they have to. Well, I don't really believe that anymore. I haven't actually met anyone who has spoken english well. Maybe in Paris, and the large cities, it is commonly known, but here it is very much French, especially with the older generations. Hopefully, I will learn enough survival skills soon. Luckily, everyone I have come in contact with has been very nice and helpful. I haven't experienced that negitivity towards Americans that is so commonly mentioned. They all have been welcoming.
As for Lyon, it is beautiful. Extremely old and preserved, I already love it. I am sure I will be fine here. It is large enough to keep you occupied but at the same time, not too large so you can walk all around and easily orientate yourself with it. The rivers are great and give you an excellent look at the architecture. It is protected by the world heritage, so everything is well preserved and a reflection of its age. We visited the Basilica, which beautifully overlooks the entire city. Walking around Vieux Lyon was amazing. I wish we had areas in the US like here. It is very old, with tiny shops and a thousand cafes it seems. Paul and Sharon had us do a scavenger hunt, which was great. We saw the old Roman ampitheater, walked all over the city, visited some well known squares, a museum, and just got to know the city better. We ended at a bar/cafe by their home, which we had dinner in that night. So far I am impressed with the city. Hopefully I continue to like it.
Well, there isn't too much more going on. I am a little homesick already, but hopefully it will get better, especially as my travel begins tomorrow with a trip to Annecy! I'll keep you updated. For now, au revoir.
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