What to expect in Germany?

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After studying in a small historical town in rural Virginia for two and a half years, I am excited for my study abroad experience with IES in winter term. Coming from a metropolitan city like Hong Kong, I simply missed city life too much in the past two years. Before embracing the bustle and hustle in Berlin and beginning the Metropolitan Studies Program in Berlin with IES, I flew from DC to Frankfurt in mid-December. Although Frankfurt is well known for hosting many international financial institutions, I was surprised to see its well-preserved, beautiful old town center. Then, I took a fast train to Stuttgart, a major city in South Germany, to meet up with my German friends. My first Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market), first wurst (German sausage), first Gluehwein (hot spice wine), first time riding with the German ICE ‘bahn,’ and first time visiting a castle! …All of these interesting German experiences took place in my Christmas holiday and I have totally been enjoying the south. Shortly, I will be traveling by train to the capital and will begin my new year and new semester there. Everything in Germany so far has been fantastisch (sure you can guess easily what this German word means ☺), I wonder what Berlin will offer me soon? Although there’s something I’m very certain about -- it’s going to be the coldest winter in Germany and in Berlin!! I’m ready to wrap myself up with more layers of clothes and wear even 2 pairs of socks...!

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