Yesterday we embarked on our 22-hour journey from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Augsburg, Germany. Our first flight from Pittsburgh to Chicago was as smooth as can be! We had a 5-hour layover in Chicago where we spent quality time getting to know each other (and trying deep-fried pizza of course). Our flight boarded around 6pm and we took off for Munich an hour later. The plane food was better than expected and I enjoyed watching movies to kill time. Although sleep was rare I had time to think about some of my goals for the trip. The first goal I came up with was to learn and memorize phrases in German from the exchange students that we would meet while there.
Upon arrival, we met up with Professor Feick in the airport and we took a bus to Ausburg. Once we arrived, we were introduced to two University of Augsburg program staff members, Elizabeth and Nico, and they walked with us around the city. We tried traditional German pretzels with an authentic butter spread. It surprised me how different the butter tastes here because it is homemade and contains less salt!
Next, Professor took us to the Town Hall where we learned about the Augsburger Rathaus. We learned about the cultural and historical significance of this building. Due to bombings during World War II, 80% of Augsburg was destroyed leaving very few original buildings still left. However, the Augsburger Rathaus was one of the few structures to withstand and serves as Augsburg’s political and cultural hub. This building is at the center of the stunning town hall and is truly magnificant in person.
Our next stop was the Fuggerei. We took a walking tour and learned about the history of the living community and the Fugger family lineage. The Fuggerei is the world’s oldest public housing complex still in use. It was founded by Jakob Fugger as a place where needy citizens of Augsburg could be housed. I found the fact that Mozart used to live in a complex there most interesting.
Overall, the past two days have been filled with emotions of excitement and thanks. I am so glad everyone in my group made it to Germany safely and I am looking forward to the adventures ahead!
