Naschmarkt

Today began week two of German classes, and it is now clear that we will not be slowing down at any point! However, I am loving it! I am starting to be able to understand parts of billboards and signs, as well as pronounce almost any word I see (some of the compound words take a little more thought), and can pick out key words and phrases from conversations. When I go into stores sometimes I try to only speak German - which means I don't speak very much...

After class and lunch today, we went to the Naschmarkt, which is the largest outdoor market in Wien, and is 1,5 kilometers long! It is also one of the oldest, having existed since the 16th century. I like to imagine that the Hapsburg's servants shopped there. Vendors sell fruits, vegetables, cheese, bread, etc.; there are also restaurants, cafes and ice cream shops, and of course, a lot of scarves! We wandered through the whole market first, to get an idea of what all was available, then stopped for closer looks at certain kiosks on the way back. Ladies and Gentlemen, today I purchased my first (but probably not last) European scarf! Now they'll never know I'm from America. :) The market was really neat overall! There were so many tempting smells, and there was a lot of culinary diversity.

Speaking of food, I have been very pleased with my dining structure. I had been worried before coming abroad that it would be difficult to maintain a balanced diet, being that I'm so used to an abundance of produce in the pacific northwest. But since I am willing to look for sales and search around a bit, I have actually been quite happy with the ingredients I have been able to find! (Not to mention the nutella sandwiches for lunch!) I really enjoy being able to cook for myself, and on my own schedule. It both gives me more freedom with my school and recreational schedule, and I see cooking my dinner in the evening as a time to relax and mull over the day.

Here's to many more confusing German classes, nutella sandwiches, and probably a couple more Austrian scarves. Gute Nacht Familie und Freunde!