Life abroad…

It has been 5 months since I left California and 2 since I arrived in Berlin. I must say that life in Europe, based on what I have seen while traveling around before arriving to Berlin, is not as stressful as life back home. Who wouldn’t enjoy to live like the Spanish and even have time for siesta around noon time? Life in California and in the United States in general revolves mainly around work, there’s not enough time for socializing once you walk into the workforce. But it’s not only about that, there is more culture in Europe. I don’t have to worry about a response like “where’s that at?”"Is that in Mexico?” after I tell people that I grew up in Bolivia. Yes it is true that “America” is a melting pot of different cultures, but it does not compare to Europe. The newer generations keep losing their values, traditions. Whereas in Europe those traditions are alive. I also never imagined how cheap my living expenses would add up to… back home I need at least $500 to rent a room in a shared apartment, and here, you can find something for less than 200 euros. Hopefully it lasts long because I’d certainly like to give Berlin a longer shot than 5 months.

Christmas Day

So here I am… Minutes away from taking off!

In a few hours I’ll begin new chapter in my life. I’ll try to live abroad and maintain myself while I’m at it. I’m definitely looking forward to the next 9 months in Europe and all the travels I have planned out and the prospect of living in Berlin, in my opinion one of the world’s most vibrant cities. I never thought I would get to spend New Year’s in Berlin for the 2nd

time in a row. Only that this time it will be different, I will spend it with people my age, going to a club, the way it should be. It’ll be different than last

year in the sense that last year I had a dinner with aunts and cousins and

friends of theirs. This will be my second time in Europe, but this will be an entirely

different experience. Away from my parents… hmm… there are pros and cons to that idea, but I’m growing up and living away should make the

transition of moving out of their home easier once I return… I still have to give it more though because not paying rent is my main source of travel money. Well… that’s all for now, I’m being asked to turn my laptop off, soon I’ll be in Berlin!