Day 3 (but about day 2, which was Tuesday, I think...but also day 3)

Yesterday...I have to say I am getting a little tired of the orientation stuffs. We did a lot of hand-holding through our hurry-up-and-wait style activities. We learned about the public transportation system, where the UvA offices are, and about how little we know about CvA and how little they know about us. BUT, that is all to be repaired in the coming days. Following the directed activities, I attempted to buy groceries in a new country that are labeled in a language and currency I do not understand. Needless to say, it was interesting. I did manage to purchase some pasta, but that was about it.

Today however....was very much the same. I suppose some people really need to be directly instructed, but I feel I will lean best by doing and experiencing the city. However, I did buy a bike and a local mobile phone, so I do feel more Dutch than ever! Also, we found this very hipster bar that has live jazz on Wednesday. THAT was amazing. That experience truly surpassed my expectations. I am not sure if I have ever experienced such a relaxed vibe with such great local music played by alumni of the school I am attending. All in all, everything is going quite well...if only I knew Dutch.

Day 2

Yesterday was a total fog; I don't think I have ever been so tired to my core. In any event, I will try to recreate what happened:

After getting off the airplane, Harrison, my roommate, and I got in a cab and drove to our "apartment" (it is more like a dorm with a "kitchen" (more like a mini fridge and a "stove" (more like a burner))). Anyway, the drive into the city was overwhelming. This is such a beautiful city, just as everyone has said. Many very old buildings and canals and such.

Upon arrival we took a very brief tour of the area; saw the laundry facility and such. There is a grocery store right down the street, and we are literally in the center of the city. Also, we are just across the river from the Conservatory.

Last night we went to a concert/demonstration of traditional Indian music, which was in the giant library next to the Conservatory. Despite the fact that I was completely asleep, I felt very at home with the musical academics he in Dutchland.

Unfortunately, that is all for now. It is time to catch the bus to our next destination.

Amsterdam

Ok I'm here. But I dont really feel like I am. Must be the 6 hours of sleep over the last 48 hours. Just too excited I guess. On the flight over I sat next to a Bulgarian Economist that works for a Chicago based legal consultation firm. His wife is a concert pianist. Very cool guy, with a lot of great tips on how to make the most of my stay. If you can't tell, I am very tired, so I'm going to leave it at that and try and get some sleep before this evening's meeting.

Travel

Off to an early start to say the least. Woke up at 430 to be in the car by 5 for my 7am flight. Both of my checked bags were overweight, so my briefcase is full of shoes on top of my scores. Haha. You have to laugh, there's not really anything else to do.

Such a mixture if feelings right now, not excluding exhaustion. I guess that will help me sleep at least.

It is hard to explain, but I don't think I really realized that I was actually going until now. I'm sitting in the airport minutes from boarding...I guess I'm really going eh?

...Packing

Hello all! I am just getting started packing for my flight that leaves at 7:30 am tomorrow. It looks like I will be missing the hurricane by a bit, but who knows how backed up Chicago (where I have a layover) will be. I will keep updating as I have more news!