travel

Just a Little Bit of Courage

/ Emily / 2 Comments

“Scared is what you’re feeling. Brave is what you’re doing.” ― Emma Donoghue, Room

It’s safe to say I’m scared of heights.

If fear involves shaking and gasping for breath and coming close to tears, then you have yourself a nice picture of fear whenever I end up in a situation that takes me off the ground.

I suppose that’s what makes my parent’s decision to take me ziplining so amusing.

Now people reading this might be thinking…hold on you went ziplining in the U.S. last September. Isn’t this blog supposed to be about your current life in Europe?

I’m getting there.

See Europe is such a similar scenario to ziplining for me. Both start my adrenaline going. As I stepped onto the plane I found myself shaking, getting teary, struggling to take a proper breath. Not because of fear of heights, but because of my fear of the unknown.

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After ziplining, I pretty much know how this year abroad will pan out. I know the start of my journey was getting up on the platform. Like with ziplining, I was reassured by plenty of people that there would be safety and security,  tested by thousands of users before me. But as I walked through the customs line into France, that didn’t keep me from feeling a rush of anxiety over the realization that my feet had left solid ground. I was soaring freestyle, and at this point my trajectory was inevitable, and there was no getting out of my harness. I’ll be on this line until May. Seven months of dangling off the ground.

I am aware that by May I’ll likely be so happy I did this. For all I know I’ll want to do this another year in fact! I will be so proud of myself and so much better off in the long run. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not hard right now.

I just wanted to post this to let people know that I get scared the same as anyone. In two days I’m leaving to go tour six countries by myself. I’ve had a lot of people telling me how brave that is. Several teachers yesterday commented that I was “comme une grande”…in other words…like an adult (which I will point out I actually am). The point is, as much as people keep telling me I’m brave, that doesn’t mean I don’t feel afraid.

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The point is I’m taking a leap of faith in spite of my fear. I’m trusting in systems beyond my control, even if I’ve researched safe areas of cities, booked highly reviewed hostels, and planned a very detailed route around Europe. However, I’m almost certain that when I touch back in France in two weeks, I will be so happy I did this, even if it was scary at the time. But for now, I’m simply taking a leap of faith and keeping that quote at the top in mind. Fear is an emotion. Bravery is an action. So let me act now and hope that the fear will disappear eventually.

I hope that others can take these words to heart. Even after years of traveling, it can still be scary. You cannot allow these feelings to keep your in place, however. At some point, you just have to leap and figure you’ll touch back down eventually.

Future posts to come on my great two week adventure. For now, just know that being brave doesn’t mean not being afraid. It just means you go ahead and act in spite of the fear.

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Welcome to the Rest of the Year

/ Emily / Leave a comment

“Un étranger qui vient dans le Nord pleure deux fois : quand il arrive, et quand il repart”. A stranger who comes to the North [of France] cries two times: when he arrives, and when he leaves. –Bienvenue Chez Les Ch’tis

So the quote likely has no meaning to most Americans reading this, but I will elaborate to try to make it clear. There’s a comedic movie that’s pretty well known in France about a man who is forced to move up to the North of France. Playing off of typical French stereotypes, the north appears to be a rainy and cold rural nightmare with country bumpkins who drink and can’t speak proper French.

 

Since I found out I’d be moving to Armentières in the very very far north, I’ve had more than one person who knows of this movie reference it. So I felt it appropriate to list the quote from it. Partly because half of it has come true.

So let’s begin with how I came to the North. Not the receiving my contract to work bit, because that’s boring. But my journey up here.

Everything went relatively smoothly for the most part. No delays in flights. No lost baggage. I flew to Dallas Fort Worth and then to Paris. My flight was largely empty so I had two seats to myself to stretch out in during the night (which was fantastic!) I still only managed about an hour of sleep though since I was anxious and just ready to reach my final destination.

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I think waiting is often the worst part of anything. Waiting in the plane. Waiting at the train station. Waiting in the train. Building up anticipation and worries about what might come. Rain or freezing temperatures or people who I couldn’t understand.

But I jest of course, the ride to the town provided me with a lovely sunny view of rolling countryside. The town I pulled into was clearly small, but I had no problem with comprehension.

One of my teachers picked me up at the train station. I was thoroughly exhausted having gone more than 24 hours without much sleep at that point. So when he mentioned going to see my school and meet people I was certainly not thrilled, but I put on a smile and agreed.

I was led through corridors and up stairs, frantically trying to memorize everything as he chattered away. The school is ginormous! It’s beautiful, but definitely huge. So I present to you the wonders and terrors of Lycée Gustave Eiffel! This is one of the two high schools I will be teaching at over the semester.

I was led to the internat, essentially a “boarding school” where students are housed during the week. In a separate wing there is an area for assistants. There are five rooms connected by a hallway that all share a bathroom and a small kitchenette with a fridge and supposedly a microwave (though we haven’t been given one yet).

It’s really just like being in the dorms again. I have two roommates so far (both Americans who will also be assisting in nearby schools). We go to the cafeteria on campus for meals and are all just trying to figure out how this works. And it’s also like college in seeming unreal until actually arriving.

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After finally being taken back to my room, I was given a few seconds to let it sink in. I’m in France. I’m living in France. I’m stuck here for seven months!

So yes, there might have been a little crying, even if the place seemed better than expected.

Needless to say, since then it’s just been a lot of exploring my town and the nearest big city of Lille. So far no disasters. My teachers all seem to be very friendly and welcoming.

I had to laugh because one let me stay over at her house this weekend (I might again write more in detail on that), and her husband drove me back to the train station. And as he did he said this exact quote I put at the beginning of the post.

So yes it’s all a bit of an adjustment so far. But by the end, I wouldn’t be surprised if a few tears are shed on the way home. It’s going to be an extraordinary year.

Stay tuned for more. I think that’s about all I have to say so far, but I’m sure I’ll have more in the next few days.

 

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The main square in town. I’d hoped to add a bunch of photos but it appears my internet is acting up again! The problems with living in a boarding school…

 

How to Fit Seven Months of Supplies in 2 (3?) Bags

/ Emily / Leave a comment

“What are you doing with all those books anyway?” Ron asked.

“Just trying to decide which ones to take with us,” said Hermione. “When we’re looking for the Horcruxes.”

“Oh, of course,” said Ron, clapping a hand to his forehead. “I forgot we’ll be hunting down Voldemort in a mobile library.”
― J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

If there’s one thing I normally feel pretty good at, it’s packing. My family went up to Washington and Oregon at least twice a year to visit family, and almost always had a personal vacation too. In my  younger years we used to camp regularly too, so throughout the years I have become quite proficient at the art of stuffing necessary clothing and supplies into bags.

Unfortunately, no manner of packing experience could quite prepare me for this adventure.

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The only other time I’ve had to pack for this length of time was in college, and I always had a car to fill rather than a few bags. I also had the knowledge I’d be back by Christmas at the latest, giving me time to grab more winter supplies if need be. This year, I won’t be coming back to the states until May. One of those times I wish I was Hermione and could just shove all my books and clothes into a tiny yet impossibly spacious bag.

Though this is certainly a challenge, I’m still trying to make use of the pieces of knowledge I’ve garnered throughout the years. And I decided I might as well share the few bits of information that I’m using to muddle through this colossal task.

  1. Versatility is everything! My policy with a clothing item is that if it cannot be used in more than one combination, it should be jettisoned. In other words, if I have one dress that cannot go with the shoes I’ve already picked, then it shouldn’t come along. Outfits should be able to be changed up. I love layers and accessories to help create new outfits out of a limited selection. Scarves and cardigans become my best friends because they can create new combos.
  2. It’s important to be prepared! While saving space in  your suitcase can be nice, I also think it’s good to err on the side of needing a different type of clothes. After a Fourth of July in Washington where I decided not to bring pants and nearly froze at the fireworks, I have learned that sometimes it’s good to have a backup for poor weather. Again, layers are your friends. Bring short sleeve shirts, but be sure to bring jackets or sweaters you can put over them. Better to not be miserable if the weather changes suddenly.
  3. But don’t overpack! Easy to get too excited and bring too much of everything. If it’s a short trip, look at how many days you’re going and count out an outfit for each day. If you’re planning on doing laundry, divide the trip into how many times you’ll wash clothes. 3 week vacation- 3 washes, is 7 pairs of clothes… perhaps less if you’re willing to wear something more than once (I usually pack fewer pants knowing they don’t get as dirty and can be worn more than once without too much trouble, but always pack enough underwear). Remember that hotel sinks can be good for quick washes, especially of small and lightweight items like socks and undergarments. img_0645
  4. Leave the entertainment at home. If you’re traveling for pleasure, it’s likely you’ll want to spend most of your time out and about exploring or finding other fun activities. While plane rides or long drives can be dull, don’t get overly excited about bringing books or electronics. Pick one or two things to keep you occupied. If you can afford to leave your laptop for a few days, do so! It will give you a chance to disconnect and enjoy your experience, make your pack lighter, and also be less of a hazard for potential theft or damage. E-books are my best friends on trips as they take very little space but give me something to do while in transit.
  5. Pack light clothes. I have been attached to cozy sweaters and wool coats too, but when it comes to space in your suitcase, taking much lighter and less thick clothes will benefit you. Again, layering makes it easy to stay warm while giving you more options in clothing.
  6. Roll your clothing! For whatever reason I find this seems to save space. It can also keep those nasty creases from appearing in your clothes, so I prefer it for my travels! Also, don’t be afraid to stuff things. I often stick shirts, socks, scarves, or other smaller items into shoes to save space! Every spare inch counts!14424042_10205674620265355_683461408_o
  7. You might be able to buy it there. So as I’ve mentioned, my travels have been largely to Europe and around the States, so if you’re heading to Africa or somewhere that might be a little more impoverished or culturally very different, this might be less possible. However, for those of you headed to Europe or traveling to somewhere in the states, remember that it’s usually not that hard to purchase supplies if you should forget something. This does remove some of the pressure in knowing it won’t be the end of the world. Still, it is nice to save money and can be better to plan ahead.
  8. Bring what can be tossed. So, while a full suitcase can be fine on the way to your destination, it often becomes a burden once you pick up a few things you might want to bring home. My advice for that? Take the older clothing you have that you’re getting ready to part with anyways. Sure, a few nice clothes are good for photos, but if you have a few things you can part with at the end of the journey, it gives you more space in your bag on the way back! (Although I will say I think photos probably make the best souvenirs!).
  9. Pack lists are your friends. I never pack without one. I always need it to organize, remind myself what I need, and to see how much I’m actually taking. I have a suggested one for any who’d like it. It may be overly feminine, but you can tweak it if  you don’t want to wear skirts or makeup etc. There’s room to add your own things and edit as needed. Hope it helps some of you!

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First Stop to France: San Francisco?

/ Emily / Leave a comment

“Life is a journey, not a destination” -Ralph Waldo Emmerson

So most of you are probably squinting and trying to figure out when San Francisco became a part of France. (Hint, it didn’t).  However, one important thing to know about a long-term trip to France is that it doesn’t begin in the country itself. Rather…it begins by going to the nearest French Consulate to apply for a visa. In my case, that’s San Francisco.

The first time I applied for a visa, I was so anxious about the whole process that I simply flew down to California for about four hours before turning around and flying back home. However, having gone through the process once I decided to make more of an adventure of it the second time around. After all, as long as you have your paperwork all together, the process for applying takes about fifteen minutes (or at least it did for me).

If I have any fellow travelers on their way to France who’d love to know more about the visa process, I’d be happy to put up an individual post, but for now I’d rather focus on some of the fun of getting to travel to this interesting city and explore.

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So this post can’t really encompass “best things to see in San Francisco” because I’d already seen most of the major destinations. So if you’re expecting a post about the Golden Gate Bridge, Pier 39, and the Japanese Gardens, this is not the one for you. If on the other hand you’re looking for some more obscure things to see as a seasoned San Fran traveler, check this post out.

One of the first places I went was to the Mission District. I’d hoped to explore there and find a good place for dinner, but due to unforeseen circumstances had to return to my hostel before I could eat. However, if you’re in the Mission District here are two things I checked out and enjoyed.

Old Mission Dolores:

A beautiful old mission (the oldest in San Francisco), with a beautiful basilica attached. The orange stained glass is apparently unique, as the factory that made it was destroyed during the wars in Europe and the recipe lost. The cemetery and gardens are especially lovely and it’s only $5 to get in. Definitely recommended if you’re interested in seeing some of the early history of San Francisco and some beautiful architecture.

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Dolores Park:

Though maybe not the cleanest, this park is a great place to go to people watch. It has a great atmosphere that speaks so fully to the interesting and diverse nature of San Francisco. If you’re looking to take a break and save some money, spend a little time sitting in this park just watching the city life!

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Of course, as I mentioned, my time in the mission district was cut short having to head back to my hostel. I managed to walk from Dolores Park, but I’d highly recommend making use of the municipal transport. The cable cars can be expensive, but the bus and metro services are only $2.25 and make it easy to get around.

On transportation I’ll also mention paying a little more for a hotel or hostel to be closer to the center of town can be worth it. Make sure you look into what kind of neighborhood it’s in, but location is important and can be worth a little bit more to save you travel time.

Hostel International San Francisco Downtown

For any young people (or regular hostel travelers) I’d highly recommend this place. I think it might be one of the nicest hostels I’ve ever stayed in, and it was right downtown making it easy to get around! They had friendly staff, good facilities, and a free breakfast (bagels, fruit, and coffee)! If you’re there on certain nights they have free tours and other fun activities. They also made a great recommendation for dinner for me, and were very helpful with navigating public transportation.

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Mensho Tokyo

Since I wasn’t in the Mission District anymore, I had to ask my hostel for a recommendation on eating. After thinking for a minute, the man at the desk asked if I was willing to wait. I gladly told him I was.

He told me there was a popular ramen place, a few blocks from my hostel, but that it was extremely popular and I’d likely have to stand in line. I set off to check it out.

I got there and saw a line halfway down the block. It was nearing seven on a Wednesday night, so I was hesitant to wait. However, as I got in line thinking I’d look up other recommendations nearby, a waitress came out asking if there was a party of one. And voila! That was how I got into Mensho Tokyo without waiting at all.

The service was incredibly quick. I hardly had time to glance at the menu before being asked to order, so I asked for their recommendation and decided to go with that. What I ended up having was delicious, though I still am not quite sure what was in it. Regardless, it was an amazing experience and I was so glad I did it! If you have a small party and are willing to wait, Mensho Tokyo is amazing!

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After eating I set out to go walk past Union Square and then to China Town, both of which were close by.

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There was a concert going on when I was there which was very fun! It also is just a great area for shopping and people watching. Another good free tourist place, so long as you don’t get too caught up buying things!

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China Town:

This is probably in the more “popular” San Francisco tourist places, but it was close by, and seemed like it’d be fun to just walk around in. It’s definitely a mix of junky tourist shops and very expensive imported furniture and other items, but it is a fun place to explore if you get the chance. I had a British man ask if I was local in his hopes of finding a good restaurant recommendation. I’m afraid I don’t know of any, so make sure you research before heading into the area. It would definitely be easy to go somewhere not as good due to all the tourist traffic!

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City Lights Bookstore

For any fellow English nerds or just book lovers, check out this fun bookstore just a little bit outside of China Town. It’s famous for publishing Howl and Other Poems by Allen Ginsberg and is just a great store that truly captures the spirit of the city. It’s also open until midnight, making it a great place to end a busy day!

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My second day in San Francisco started with my trip to the consulate, before I headed down to the Embarcadero. Again, I’d done the Pier 39 tour, so I decided to try another area on the waterfront and see how I liked that. Here are a few sights I saw!

Ferry Building

This building that once was a stop for the ferries, now houses a public market. The farmers market is open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday and I just happened to hit it right. It’s a fun place to stroll through and has a great selection of arts and foods!

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San Francisco Railway Museum

Donation only so this little museum is a fun and free stop! It’s very small, will only take you fifteen minutes to get through, but it is good to get more historical information about these essential parts of the city. Feel free to check it out if you have a little bit of spare time!

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Waterfront

It can be great to just stroll along the water too! Pier 1 has a great exhibit on the history of the waterfront, and again it’s free. So enjoy seeing a little more about this port city, while walking along the bay.

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Roli Roti

Though I clearly don’t have many food recommendations, if you’re at the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market, be sure to check out Roli Roti. They have delicious rotisserie style chicken and pork sandwiches and it is super delicious! I’m not even a potato person, but their rosemary fingerling potatoes about changed my mind! Just watch out for the seagulls if you decide to eat in the area. One snatched a bite of chicken straight out of my hand!

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So that about wraps up my short stay in San Francisco! After my afternoon on the waterfront I had to head back to the airport. However, I had a great time exploring this amazing city, and I would definitely love to go back.It was certainly a great starting adventure.

If you have any other questions or maybe suggestions of things you’ve seen and loved please feel free to let me know.

For now I’m just looking forward to setting off to France after one last stop in America!