Greetings from Germany!

I have gotten to experience the fast-paced work-life here. I’ve been taking orders, carrying plates, cleaning and helping in the kitchen, all of the same tasks as in a restaurant back home.
I’ve also learned German vocabulary, mostly restaurant and food words, but I can also make very simple sentences. Language has been a struggle from the moment I came here. Some of the staff and customers are hard to communicate with, since we don’t share a common language.

After workdays I like exploring the village that I’m staying in. The uphill roads, sheep and forest surrounding this place gives a peaceful atmosphere. This village is full of charm, old buildings, creeks and content people. I’ve also visited a couple of towns for shopping and sightseeing. I’ve experienced a few festivals here too and one of them was right here. The whole village came alive with lights, music and laughter, leaving me sad that I’ll be leaving this place.

I don’t like beer, but tasting them here is a must. I even found something that isn’t so bad. Radler is a mix of beer and citrus soda, it’s refreshing while still tasting like a beer.

At my work we’re not much busier than what I’ve experienced in Finland but comparing the atmospheres, they’re completely different. Finland has a more relaxed air but working here in Germany I’ve been experiencing a certain pressure to do my best and get the job done. My coworkers are so efficient and fast-paced, I struggle to match that speed. I’ve truly come to realize how relaxed and informal work in Finland is.

My time in Germany is as enjoyable as I thought it would be. I’ve been learning the language, culture and I love sightseeing the German nature and architecture, and I really enjoy talking with customers and coworkers.

I’ll be sad when I leave but I’m sure to come back some day, to explore more of Germany and visit the people I’ve met here so far.

Tschüss!