Traveling was grueling and having two large pieces of luggage with an additional backpack was not a wonderful idea, but a couple of lovely French people were quick to assist me.
Upon landing in Charles De Gaulle we were greeted by our Prof. Fetzer and he purchased the group baguettes with jambon et fromage (ham and cheese). How stereotypical! hahaha.
On the train ride from the airport to the SE portion of France I will be calling home (Grenoble) I was taken aback the breathtaking views of Provincial France and the seeming clash of modernity with tradition.
We are currently staying in a hotel in the middle of Grenoble. After learning so much about France, I was sure our hotel room would be very tiny, but, au contraire- we actually have access to three lovely balconies overlooking the city- a beautiful mountainous view- and a rather large bed/ bathroom.
I haven't really begun speaking French too heavily, especially within the traveling group of Calvin students. Today I purchased a SIM card- mobilecarte, which was uber complicated- I felt like a "stupid American," but I know my French is suffering from a summer of English
Things I have noticed about French life:
a. conservation is of utmost importance, from light switches in individual stalls of bathrooms, to large recycling areas on intersections of streets, to very small showers and much public transportation... I am very impressed
b. the French enjoy- meals generally are in the evenings and last around THREE HOURS. that will take some getting used to:)
c. Being aware of cultural quirks I have read in travel guides and various books is helpful, but several times "French stereotypes" have been broken, such as -French people don't smile-
Grenoble is a very relaxed, friendly city.
d. I need to be careful to avoid a judgmental attitude toward American or French culture.
Tchao!
I love you all, and am so excited to see what God is going to do this semester. I so appreciate your prayers- Pray especially for my host mom- Sylvette Garcin.
