Day 1

Well, the big day is here. I arrived in Belgium this morning with only a minor delay in Frankfurt. Other than the slightly less than desirable drive to the airport due to the snowstorm, it was all smooth sailing. I even lucked out and had a really friendly student from Northeastern sit next to me (who's father happened to go to Maine Maritime Academy!). I love making new friends wherever I go especially ones who are studying supply chain AND sustainability. How much better could it get?!  I have never had a Transatlantic flight seem so short!!!

Other than that, I am utterly exhausted. I tried holding off sleep until at least 8pm, but I fell asleep on the metro and decided that a nap was in my cards. The traveling and getting acquainted to everything here in Brussels took a toll on me. I'm not that young anymore. I need sleep. :)

Irina (another trainee from the previous class) picked me up at the airport. She offered to let me drive, but I thought it better if we found somewhere safe to learn first. Let me tell you... Best decision ever. We were driving to the city to get to the apartment and at one point I asked her, "Is this one lane or two?" and she replied, "Well, that depends on how big the cars are..." Whaatttt?!?!?! And apparently there is this rule that those to your right have the right of way. Now, to most Americans this seems like a strange concept, but honestly if you are pulling out of a side street onto a main road the people on the main road are required to slow down for you if you are on the right side. This will take some getting used to... I did end up trying to drive in the parking garage, but I decided it was best to leave the car at one of the offices for now and just take the metro for the weekend. I will face the demons on Sunday when there is less traffic.

As for the apartment, it is super cute and in the perfect part of town (except for the parking disadvantages). Right down the street from shopping (Mango and H&M here I come!), great food at my doorstep (I passed two Formageries within seconds of my apartment!) and plenty of cafes. I am digging the city feel from a pedestrians perspective, but will have to get used to the crazy driving.

So, my next steps are to purchase a cell phone, do some groceries, finish unpacking/organizing, learn to drive and just get to know the city. Oh and learn French/Dutch. A lady asked me a question today and i said I don't speak French and so she just asked me the same question with an additional hand motion which I still obviously didn't understand. I won't allow it. I need to learn the language. It is a crucial part of my experience.

Til next time!

Aggie