As I gradually approach the new year, I can't help but reflect on how amazing the remarkable last quarter of the year had been to me. It's been over a week since my return home, and reverse culture shock has been a huge part of the process of getting back to reality. Along with a massive amount of withdrawals, I've also been reflecting on my learnings in London from the past three months. So I want to dedicate my very last blog post to thank London for every learning opportunity as well as the experiences I never imagined I'd take part of.
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What better city to wrap up my European trips than Paris? This was also such an amazing treat after weeks of stress from school. Five days in this city truly allowed me to enjoy and just relax. Fortunately, the friend I went on this trip with had relatives in Paris who were kind enough to take us around during our stay. The Louvre, Notre-Dame de Paris, and Eiffel Tower - definitely must-do's while in this beautiful city. Top it off with hot chocolate, croissant, and macaron, then you sure will have an unforgettable trip. Speaking of unforgettable moments, I got to finally try escargot! It was actually better than I initially thought, and I didn't mind eating more. With that Go Big or Go Home mentality, my friend and I fearlessly faced frog legs as our next dish! I knew I could handle snails, but frog legs?! I had doubts, but I tried one anyway! It wasn't tasty, but it wasn't that bad either, so there were no regrets that night.
Unfortunately, this was my last city to visit. Totaling of six countries, I am beyond satisfied with all my travels. It has been an amazing semester of traveling and going to school, and I am so thankful for everyone who had made all this possible to happen. I know exactly what people think of when Amsterdam is mentioned, but quite honestly, I was only interested in the Anne Frank House. However, tickets online had unfortunately sold out before we even got to check. The good news is, I got to at least walk past it. I know it's not the same exact experience, but it was something and the best we could do. Suppose this happens to you, there are many museums you can find as substitutes. Lastly, food advice, please grab a bite or two of their pancakes, you won't regret it!
Hello from Hawai'i!
About 21 hours ago, I arrived home just in time for the holidays. Now that I'm no longer occupied by traveling and/or school, I thought I'd finish up my last few blog posts. I know this is beyond overdue, but my friends and I paid Copenhagen a spontaneous visit in the beginning of November. The flight was really cheap and we just couldn't let that opportunity pass. As a result, however, I actually enjoyed this trip. Of all the cities I visited, Copenhagen probably has the nicest locals, which really helps especially when you're not familiar with the place. I won't go into details with our itinerary, but I do want to suggest a few things: pancakes, waffles, food markets, and art center, then your should be satisfied with your stay! I was very hesitant to blog about this because I'm not one to be sappy online, but I think it might be a great piece of advice. Perhaps this post can serve as a way to be fair and show the not-so-pretty side of my study abroad experience, as well.
On November 27, I lost another loved one to cancer. My aunty. Among all my aunties, it was she who was the closest to the "second mom" figure I had. It was she whom my mom would often entrust her, then, sheltered child's life to. I guess that's the very reason why I'm finding it difficult to accept my aunty's passing. This was about five days ago, but I still remember the exact feeling when I found out. I had just arrived on campus from an exhausting weekend trip. I thought I'd pick up some dinner before tackling my papers, but while waiting for my order, I learned about the news. My knees instantly felt so weak, I took a seat while trying to comprehend what I just saw on my phone screen. The more I tried to hold my tears back during my walk home, the more I failed. I gathered myself together and called my mom as soon as I reached my dorm with an attempt to provide her comfort, but it had unfortunately turned out the other way around, as it was I who broke into tears first. Not only did she comfort me, but also reassured me that she was fine. But I knew she wasn't. We talked longer than anticipated, as I allowed my mom to lay her emotions while reminiscing about her good times with her sister. Two days later, came my birthday. Quite frankly, I can say that it wasn't the best birthday I've had so far. My mom told me to celebrate, but I didn't want to. Not only did it feel wrong, I also just couldn't find any reason to. However, I appreciated the effort that my study abroad friends put into our small dinner gathering. But my birthday was the least of my concern. I was worried about my mom and just wanted to be home to serve as some form of comfort to her. I also really wanted to see my aunty for one last time. But none of that seemed possible. For the first time, I felt so trapped here. Ironically, I trapped myself even more in my room, as I was desperate for some solitude time. I still went to my classes, but rushed it home immediately after. I didn't really have anyone to talk to here, but I'm grateful for a few friends back home who stood as my support system. On my birthday, a friend of mine sent me wishes in a long thoughtful message that I highly appreciated. I will never forget what he told me, as it had drastically made me feel better. "...please find some solace as you get through your finals and into the embrace of your family back home. Although we believe in different Gods, I'll keep you all in my prayers. I Know it will (do) anything but simple, but you will see brighter days as your aunt lives on within you, within your family and within everyone who's life she has impacted as did my grandfather." So to my friends back home, and on the mainland, thank you. Thursday night, I finally decided to leave my flat to get my life together in the library. I won't lie, I did fall behind and my final reports are nowhere looking done. It didn't help that it was towards the end of the semester when all of this happened, but I bounced back and am ready to finish this semester strong. I don't think the pain immediately fades away, so my remainder of time abroad will be dedicated to just school. Although my aunty would certainly want me to enjoy my last few weeks here, I really don't feel like associating myself with any more fun. I do still have my last two trips awaiting, but I'm not one to disappoint and leave people in the air. However, I strongly feel the need to cancel one of them - not for the mere reason of my loss, but also for the fact that these past days really did hold me back and caused me to fall behind on my work. It's still uncertain, but my only goal right now is to finish this semester and go home to my family. I guess the lesson I want you, future study abroad students, to take away from this is the ability to revitalize yourself in the midst of a tragedy, even if it seems impossible. Don't get me wrong, I'm not foreseeing that you'll go through the same thing. However, if you do experience any setback while abroad and find yourself needing to talk, please do reach out to someone. Anyone. That's something I probably should've done, but was too stubborn to. I'm fine, and London has been sunny lately (!!!), but I can't wait to go home. My favorite city is probably between Rome and Venice. While Rome offers a huge variety of tourist spots, Venice consists of small islands. My very first day in the city was spent in bed as another fever had unfortunately hit me. I was able to bounce back the next day and got to enjoy some savory crepes, more gelato, pasta, a museum, and panoramic views.
My friends and I hopped on a water boat the following day, headed to two other islands - Burano and Murano. I would definitely recommend Burano on your bucket list, as I enjoyed this beautiful island a lot. Strolling by the fishermen's colorful houses gave me such good vibes, I almost didn't want to leave. The seafood pasta will also make you want to stay and be one of the locals. It was such a small island, yet the happiness within the community was so transparent. I'd absolutely pay a return if I ever find myself in Italy again! Our last day consisted of more food and the Gondola ride. Although I'm not a fan of boat rides, this was actually on my bucket list. I thought this plan was going to get put aside, but I'm thankful for friends who are down for the most touristy activities with me. I'd have to say that it was a tad pricey, but you may split the 80-euro fee among your friends while you all enjoy an hour tour around Venice. This is a bit late, but Happy late Thanksgiving to everyone back home. I hope you were all able to spend some time with your family. As I attempt to recall my Rome trip from nearly three weeks ago, all I can mostly remember are gelato, pasta, and the Vatican City. The three highlights of my trip. The gelato enthusiast side of me was kept satisfied and I could say that this city, as well as Venice, probably had the best gelato I've ever had. As embarrassing as it sounds, to have some authentic Italian gelato nearby The Trevi Fountain as I toss a coin for a humble wish, was actually on my bucket list. I was beyond grateful to have been able to cross that off.
While as for pasta - I apologize to possibly disappoint some of you, but I wasn't the biggest fan. I gave it a try, regardless, and somehow ended up with a newfound love for it. Never had I imagined that I could eat pasta nearly everyday for about a week. If I'm not mistaken, it all started with the Ravioli that I had on our very first day in Rome. The portion was perfect for me and the taste didn't disappoint me either. I learned that Italians take their culinary quite seriously; hence, my satisfaction with that meal and every other ones that I had after. Now onto the very highlight of my trip: the Vatican City. That day started off with a visit to the Vatican Museum. I enjoy going to museums to read and feed my brain, but quite frankly I'm only attracted to certain ones. This museum, however, did not disappoint me at all - not that I initially thought it would've. Walking through that museum was such a "blast from the past" moment, as it had brought me back to my Sunday School days. The spiral stairs gave a beautiful touch to the museum, along with its sculptures, paintings, and artifacts. Soon after, we were headed to St. Peter's Basilica. We were unfortunately greeted by a long line in the blazing hot sun. I was fairly disappointed because that basilica was actually on my list. After learning that my friends weren't interested in standing in line, I was determined to go alone after I freshened up, with some gelato of course. However, my friend, Jenny, insisted that she'd go with me and that's when everyone else decided to tag along. Although, I'd have to say, I was hesitant because the line was long and I didn't want them to stand in the hot sun for something that was beyond their interest. Regardless, I was very happy to have had some great company while I waited. As I entered the biggest Catholic church in the world, I was captivated by its unique beauty. It was one of those moments where you need to be present to fully understand and grasp the feeling. Having been brought up by a Catholic family, that experience was certainly a big deal for me. It was such a beautiful moment and I cannot express that enough - it was probably the most aesthetic church I've entered in. Overall, Rome was such a great treat for me and I can actually see myself paying this city another visit. My apologies on this very late post, but here's a little update. Our "Reading Week" or a week-long break from school started on the 20th, and a few friends of mine and I have been traveling since then. Our first stop was Barcelona, Spain where we had spent four days in.
Day 1: (10/20)
It was a late 2 am bedtime for me last night. While sitting on the edge of my bed, I caught myself whispering "wow, it's been a month" under my breath. I looked around my room and re-evaluated (with a doubt) how I survived this past month. I somehow did. Though I know my Hawai'i friends played a huge role in it and I certainly can't thank them enough. Without them, I would perhaps still be homesick, takeouts are what's for dinner, and adventures wouldn't be as exciting. Although I sometimes crave for some alone time, their company never fails to send me good vibes. As I've said before, I can't imagine being on this journey with another group of people.
A lot had happened the past month; most of which are great memories, while some are learning experiences. Here's a list of what my first month consisted of:
P.S. bottom right photo is some Spanish translations from my friend, Serena, which may come in handy on our trip to Spain in about a week! There is something about family days that fills my heart with so much joy. Yesterday, I was rewarded by my uncle's and aunty's presence as they brought me to places on my day-off from school. Planned destinations were Stonehenge and The Roman Baths. Unfortunately, both places are on the Study Abroad social program list and students are scheduled to visit them this Saturday. But who am I to complain when my only desire was some of the family time I've been longing for, since I've landed foot in this new city? I didn't mind at all, and I probably wouldn't mind going this Saturday again. Both places, however, were beyond beautiful; and behind their beauty, lie even more beautiful stories.
People often view Stonehenge as just, well, rocks. However, similar to many things in life, there are stories that speak on its behalf. From the outside, it may appear to be merely a dull tourist attraction; but explore within the site, and you'll find yourself craving for more information. One recommendation I have is to visit the exhibition site before hopping on the shuttle headed to the stones. This way, you'll have a better understanding of what you're seeing. The exhibition site gives you quite a bit of insights on what it was like before the stones were built; who built them; what happened after they were built; Stonehenge during the winter; & etc. Although we were greeted by some rain, I still loved every second of my first Stonehenge experience. My treat didn't end at the stones, as my family decided to take on the road for another hour to visit The Roman Baths - which just so happens to be on my bucket list! I've got a lot of recommended places I visited so far, but this one is definitely a GO without hesitation. The site is divided by four sections: the museum, the Roman Bath House, the Roman Temple, and the Sacred Spring. Within, there are different numbered stations and visitors are given an audio guide. With this device, you are to punch in the number of the station you are at and a minute or two of audio plays, educating you of its history. My favorite? It certainly was the hot spring. I was captivated by its beauty's simplicity as the water continued to bubble up with added aesthetic from yesterday's rain. Yesterday was absolutely one of my favorite days so far. I just want to extend my appreciation to my Study Abroad Program; without this experience, I probably wouldn't meet my London relatives. Also, I had just found out that I have more relatives here. I can't wait to meet and introduce them on my blog! |
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