The natives of Brussels must have built-in American detectors. Everywhere we go, they stare and whisper and scowl. We don't even have to say anything. It's actually pretty amusing. I have quickly realized that you cannot take it personally because it is not something that is going to change.
There are a few natives who smile and ask questions about what we're doing here and how we are enjoying our visit so far. So it is refreshing when those rare interactions take place.
But to make up for the somewhat ugly social tendencies, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. My roommate Nora and I ran through Cinquantenaire park (which is shown in the photograph), located down the street from our hotel. It was surreal to run under the towering, historic columns. You just don't see buildings that intricate and awe-inspiring back in the states. It's strange to think that this will be my daily life for the next four months.
We also had the opportunity to tour the EU today. I am not the best at political theory and structure, but it was fascinating to see where so much history is made. I have spent so much time reading this book on the European Union for research that it is strange to finally see "the place."
There is so much more to tell, but maybe once I actually have internet access in my living quarters I can fill in some of the gaps.
Vesalius Orientation tomorrow! More reflections soon to come...
There are a few natives who smile and ask questions about what we're doing here and how we are enjoying our visit so far. So it is refreshing when those rare interactions take place.
But to make up for the somewhat ugly social tendencies, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. My roommate Nora and I ran through Cinquantenaire park (which is shown in the photograph), located down the street from our hotel. It was surreal to run under the towering, historic columns. You just don't see buildings that intricate and awe-inspiring back in the states. It's strange to think that this will be my daily life for the next four months.
We also had the opportunity to tour the EU today. I am not the best at political theory and structure, but it was fascinating to see where so much history is made. I have spent so much time reading this book on the European Union for research that it is strange to finally see "the place."
There is so much more to tell, but maybe once I actually have internet access in my living quarters I can fill in some of the gaps.
Vesalius Orientation tomorrow! More reflections soon to come...
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