Fall has definitely arrived in the Czech Republic, but it’s partially different from fall in Oregon. Instead of it being rainy and cold, here in Prague it’s mainly just windy. Winds were recorded up to 56 miles per hour a few days ago. But it’s really not that cold. Yesterday it was 67 degrees. It’s actually pretty nice.
A lot has happened since my last blog post, including culture shock and accidentally staying in Belgium another day. I’ve also gotten quite sick recently. It’s currently flu season in Prague, and a lot of students sniffle, sneeze, and nap in class. Since attendance is strictly enforced, students are only allowed to leave if they receive a note from their doctor. Do you know how intimidating that is? I don’t even know where the hospitals are, the process of scheduling an appointment, or even if the doctors speak English. So, a lot of students just drug up and go to class.
Even so, I have really enjoyed my marketing class here. I’ve already made a few connections and am learning a lot about Czech research materials. It’s been a fun process. I also like my marketing team. They’re pretty great.
Besides school, I’ve also quite enjoyed my church’s young adult group. I’ve never really experienced a church family before, but I think I’ve found one here. It’s been awesome.
The group has also been helpful with processing culture shock. It really hit me last week when I met women missionaries who spoke about their time living here. Although Czechs are more open if you start speaking Czech, the locals often reject foreigners who can’t speak the language perfectly. It’s a very closed, cold culture. Even if you ask how to say something in Czech, they won’t help. A few of the missionaries have even given up on learning the language because of the discouraging atmosphere. Their stories really impacted me and I became quite disheartened.
Thankfully, my home group has helped me realize that these struggles aren’t uncommon. Even themselves, Europeans, Africans, and Asians, have felt how difficult it is to assimilate to Czech culture. Meeting with them weekly has really been a blessing.
Last weekend, I also traveled to Brussels with Ryan, Sharada, and Margo. We had a wonderful time! The Belgian waffles, chocolate, and fries were AMAZING. Their classic Belgian dishes were also delectable. Even though it rained on us a few times, we all enjoyed ourselves.
The main surprise that occurred while in Brussels was on the last day. We all got up very early to catch our morning flight, but when security looked at my boarding pass, they said my flight wasn’t until that evening. Oops! I booked the wrong flight!
As my friends flew back to Prague, I took a train to Bruges, another Belgian town. I met a few friends and saw some very interesting sights. Unfortunately, I took a train to the wrong airport that evening and had to take an Uber to the correct airport. It was very stressful, but I made it in time for my flight home.
Overall, I still love being in Europe. I’ve already planned future trips to England, Poland, and Italy. I’m making a lot of new friends and eating a lot of good new food.
I can’t believe it’s only been three weeks. Although I can’t wait to be back in America with my friends and family, I’m looking forward to all of these future adventures, laughs, and tastes.
Enjoy these pictures from last week. I’m sorry for posting late, I’m just resting up as much as I can before my trip to Budapest today. 🙂
At the beautiful Brussels park! 
This is an tenor trombone (Buccin) at the Brussels Musical Instruments Museums. It’s pretty cool! 
Near the Brussels library 
Brussels at night 
Us walking around Brussels’ streets 
The legendary Brussels Peeing Boy Statue! 
The Royal Hall market 
The cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula 
Us near Everard ‘t Serclaes. Apparently touching it brings you good luck 
Me and Brussels! (Total photobomb :P) 
Me in Bruges 
The beautiful Bruges city 
The beautiful Bruges 
Windmill in Bruges 
Bruges’ Town Hall 
Better picture of Town Hall 
Church of Our Lady, Bruges 
Church of Our Lady, Bruges 
Church of Our Lady, Bruges 
Basilica of the Holy Blood, Bruges 
Inside of the basilica. Apparently they have the blood of Christ. It looked old, so maybe. Who knows? 
My home group! Man, they’re all so great
From Portland to Prague 
Amazing photos! I especially love the night shot! 🥰
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