Hallo from Bonn!

Guten Tag!

I have arrived in Bonn safely, and it has already been an adventure this far. There were no problems with the flight other than that Nicole and I didn't sleep at all. I was picked up from the AIB office by my host mother, Mrs. Hannelore Biermann. Mrs. Biermann is the nicest woman I've ever met. She's been a host mother with AIB for over ten years so she really knows how to make us feel comfortable in her home. The German home is not too different from my own. The only barrier is when it comes to language. Usually I just sit and listen when they have conversations...laugh when they laugh, agree when they agree...it seems to work.

I've felt very lost at times trying to make my way alone on the public transportation systems. I live farther away from Bonn than anyone, but in time, I think I'll get used to it. I love the group of people on the trip. We seem to laugh all the time and there's always someone to talk too. The program is also set up very nicely. It's structured enough to fill our day but it also gives us alot of free time.

So far, my favorite part of the program was hearing from Mr. Zannikus today about 20th century German history. I love learning about the history of WWII and he had a different perspective from anyone I've ever heard before. Probably, because he is German haha. He spoke very strong about his feelings when he has visited concentration camps. We will be doing this later in the trip and I'm really looking forward to the experience. Tomorrow, we head to Cologne to see it's famous cathedral. It should be a very fun day.

Other than that, I am very relaxed and content. We go out at night and try some German beer and have a good time. I feel very lucky and blessed that I am a part of this trip. Until next time!

Cheers!
Coral