Culture Shock

I've experienced culture shock in the past. It's not fun. I remember experiencing it in Italy last summer--a familiar perfume is what sparked it (I brought absolutely no perfume on this trip). I'm not sure what sparked this round, but it started yesterday. It's eased up a little bit, but right now I'm experiencing a side of culture shock that is leaving me hungry and sick all at the same time. My body is unsuccessfully adjusting to Austrian bratwurst. For the past two days, I have felt completely ill. Now I know why: the food! The fat in the bratwurst I've been eating is apparently a toxic substance--according to my body. I feel sick, yet I am hungry.

I'm also tired. Ok, there's another sign of culture shock: complaining. My roommate probably wants to kill me. I'll try and shut up, but I wish I could eat some good, wholesome food. Right now I'm at my house, which is pretty far away from a lot of things in the city. One thing that I've noticed about being in Europe is that I'm often dehydrated. Other people have been experiencing this as well, but it's because water isn't as readily available like in the states. I can't go into a restaurant and get free water with my drink--I have to pay for it. I think my body is also getting used to the tap water. It's not dirty--it's just different. Oh, and ice is unheard of. You'll never be served a drink with ice. 

There are several stores all over the city that sell postcards. I've been keeping my eye out for some cheap ones. I want to write people soon, so if you want a postcard, send me your address!

Unfortunately I have homework to attend to, but I'll try to write more soon. I hope all is well with everyone--feel free to just write me an e-mail! I didn't haul my laptop over here for nothing. : )

Hillary