Finally Here

I am finally here in Vienna! Here is the story:

The flight from Seattle to Paris, France was about 12 hours long. It was a nice flight too. We had about 2 hours or so in a the airport. It wasn't anything special, but at least I can say that I have been to Paris. :) However, the worst part was the 2 hour flight from Paris to Vienna. It was only 2 hours, but by that time I had enough of being on planes, and sitting the whole day. The decent was the worst part. It was very rocky, and it was the longest part for sure. I got really sick, but I was extremely thankful to get out of the plane and be on solid ground.

When we got to Vienna, we went to the Vienna City Hostel were most of the group is staying. We rode on a double decker bus, another first experience for me. It was fun seeing Vienna that way. The road signs were pretty entertaining. I have a few of them on here. Orientation was held at the hostel, and the first of many. We recieved cards with emergency numbers and information and cell phones that we can use to keep in contact with each other and call the IES representatives when we need to. After orientation we got in a taxi and went to our apartment. That was a fun ride down the narrow streets of Vienna. We met our land lords, a very sweet and funny older couple. They showed us to our apartment and gave a us a run down on apartment rules and what there is available. It is such a nice apartment and we are really lucky to be staying here. I'm rooming with my friend Bridget Davis and a grad student Sylvia, who is here to sing with the choir and take classes along with the rest of the group. It will be a fun place to live for 6 weeks.

Our host father gave us a tour around the area where we are living. He showed us places where we can buy groceries, go out to eat for reasonable prices, and lots of little cafes. We stopped to watch the Vienna military band in a park for two songs. He showed us the underground transportation system, and where to go to get to our classes. It was very helpful and fun. I feel very comfortable here in Vienna, and the area he showed us is very easy to get around.

That is my first day experience. I loved every minute of it. :) I need to go to bed now. It's 11:17 here, and I haven't slept in about 2 days. I'll put pictures up tomorrow.

Love you all!!! :)