The valley in the Alps.

First off, we saw and experienced so much and I love the fact we have the opportunity to be here. In Salzburg we went to the salt mines. My favorite part was the slides, although I wish we could have gone on the really long one they said, "Is to thrilling for all the tourists." It would have been nice to explore different parts and get to see different salt crystal formations on the cave walls.

The old town in both Salzburg and Innsbruck were astonishing. The view from the fortress was mysteriously beautiful. The lights portrayed the shapes and sizes of the buildings in the city but you can not actually see everything like in Boston (wave of homesickness...). Everything in Boston is so much bigger and brighter which illuminates more of the surrounding buildings, streets and parks.

Innsbruck's high and centralized view of the city was from up top of the . We had to climb up 148 stairs to get there and it was well worth it. The irrigation system of the rooftops was well planned and efficient. I like it better than modern gutters.

I walked the city alone the second day there. Five of the students went to Munich early, and five went to Venice for the day. My brother was the only other student who had no minutes on his phone. I had the city to myself and my camera; this was my favorite part of the trip, which is surprising to myself. I generally enjoy peoples company, laughing, talking, and having a good time exploring. It was revitalizing to just wandered by myself letting my feet take me where ever they wanted to go. No compromises, no complaints, no worry if I was lost or going to be late. My mind was clear and I remembered my high school photography class and many of the rules that add to a good photograph. Within the three hours I was completely free I took photo's of the city capturing the city life and its architectural beauty with stunning alps shining through wherever they pleased. I found so many cool things and places that I normally would not have seen if i was with other people. I found a hidden section of wooded walking paths with a few covered bridges. One which cut across the main river, with jaw dropping scenery on each side. I found a metal 10 foot tall bird in a park near an elderly home. I walked along a small river and saw many locals conversing strolling alone like i was. I found a big shopping complex with tons of people trying to get word out about their companies or fundraisers. And my favorite of it all is i found a slightly run down industrial street with a large bridge running parallel to the street above it leading down to bright white peaks towering over the city keeping it safe. Who knows maybe some of the photo's will make it to post cards. ^_^

Old Magic within these city walls.

Regardless of where i went and what i did it was beautiful to just wander the city. When i do this weird things happens to me when i travel. I don't know how else to explain it except say that i breathe in the magic and beauty of the past. I just really appreciate the architecture and natural environment of Europe. Everywhere i have gone so far since being abroad,when i see anything that conveys that same feeling, i stop walking, close my eyes and take in a deep breath and am floored by how much it moves me.

There is so much more to Amsterdam than meets the eyes. Despite all the stereotypical misconceptions the city has a lot more to offer than it seems. Me and three other students went for a 3 day trip, and did not get a chance to see everything we wanted to. We went to the Anne Frank house, which was powerful and moving.

On the last day three of us wandered the city to eventually find our way to the Van Gogh museum. We took our time and really appreciated the beauty of the city. There are 4 canals you cross on the way to the center of the city. As much as i wanted to take one of the boats i knew i could not afford it. There were plenty of other beautiful things that were free to keep me entertained. I took 160 pictures in an hour and half, all on the walk to the Van Gogh. I felt so inspired by the beauty of the city. The way the museum was presented enhanced the stunning abilities and accomplishments of Van Gogh and many other Dutch and French artists.

I cant wait to travel more and see as much as i can while being here.
Until then,
Auf Weiwersein