The Adventure Begins...

Well, it's only been 2 days since I landed, but it feels like weeks. Just making my way to Leuven was an adventure in itself.  My flight was delayed six hours, so my thrilling journey began with me sitting in JFK bored out of my mind.  Luckily I slept most of the flight so I before I knew it, I was on the European continent for the first time in my life!

Getting off at Brussels Airport and making my way to the train it suddenly dawned on me:  I am on my own. In another country. In another continent.  It's not like moving out "on my own" to college, nor like going to Australia where we had a guide show us the way and there were 30 of us in the same boat.  I couldn't help but think

God, what have I gotten myself into?

While sitting on the train, I took a deep breath and regained my composure.  I was realizing that this is a new step in my life.  Quickly enough, the impact of that realization turned into excitement.

Leuven Town Hall

I clumsily managed my way around Leuven.  Luckily, it is true that most locals speak English.  And counter to the stereotypes, they were very helpful and friendly.  I immediately noticed how "old" Leuven feels--older than anywhere in the US or Australia--and how cramped the streets seem with the buildings so tall and close together.  It was emptier than I expected (since classes still don't start for two weeks.)  This would be a cool place for a zombie movie, I couldn't help but think.

Oude Markt

Oude Markt

After lugging my laptop bag, a duffel bag, and my suitcase-on-wheels (great for cobblestone roads, btw) halfway across town I arrived at the Residential Management Office exhausted and sweaty.  I picked up my guest room key, dropped off my stuff, and took a shower promptly.  I couldn't wait to head back to the center of town and start exploring.   I wondered around and found their famous medieval Town Hall, St. Peter's Church, and the Oude Markt "the longest bar in the world."

The rest of my time so far has consisted of a little exploring and a lot of administrative formalities.  Rest assure, I did manage to make a few friends, grab a few beers, and try genuine Belgian fries.  I've been delighted with all of it--there's something about being a foreigner that makes the most mundane things fun.  I constantly think to myself I'm in freaking Europe and I can't wait to milk it for all it's worth.  Carpe Diem!  This is only the beginning