The first time in New Delhi felt surreal. There was an Elephant walking on the street beside the cars and motorcycles, while on the side, monkeys were hanging on electrical wires.
India
Home of the Tallest Skyscraper
Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates
A close friend, one I practically grew up with around the family, lived in Abu Dhabi. While visiting her, I searched for opportunities to work in Dubai, hopefully becoming an expat. While driving to her house from Dubai, I pulled over to the side to make sure I was going the right way. I could feel the dry heat immediately after shutting off the car. The dreadful thought of being stuck out in the hot desert crossed my mind. It was constantly hot, even at night.
Hawaiian Islands
Oahu and the Big Island
Locals don’t say “Hang Loose” for nothing. It’s so easy to loosen up when the beach and palm trees are so close by. Some wear slippers to work. I went straight to the beach right after work. It was almost like going on vacation at the end of each workday. When walking to work, you can have vacation on your mind until you walk through the front door. Everyone is relaxed and in a good mood, except for anyone from NY, even after many years, still uptight.
Switzerland
Land Flowing with the Best Chocolate
Bern, Dielsdorf, Zurich, Basel, Geneva, Neuchatel, Thun
While on the train, there are many captivating views of small towns between Neuchâtel, Zürich, Dielsdorf, Bern, Basel and or Geneva developed on the hillside or right along the lake. While walking through the old towns, one can spot the dominant clock tower amongst the rest of the buildings. Historic architecture is well preserved and there are places on top of the hill with panoramic views.
Chicago
Illinois, USA
Chicago has a rich culture in architecture, which is why I chose to study there. From the studio, I could see the tallest buildings in downtown Chicago and when hungry, I could walk to Greek-town for a spanakopita or little Italy for pasta. There’s so much to see in downtown Chicago and it’s easy to walk around or find your way just by walking along the canal or Grant park.
Island of the Harp
Dublin, Ireland
My tour of Ireland was short lived, only three days. The first night included bar hopping through the Temple Bar area. There I learned what pissed means to the Irish, not mad, but drunk. The second day was a walking tour through Dublin, which ended with lounging on the ninth floor of the the Guinness Storehouse, Guinness in hand, included in the tour.
Spain
Barcelona, Granada, Sevilla, Bilbao
Most of the abroad studies where spent in Barcelona. While in Spain, we also toured other cities, such as Bilbao for the Guggenheim Museum or San Sebastian for the Chillida-Leku sculptures. Other times, on our own, we traveled to Granada and Cordoba by train. Located in Southern Spain, the architecture of Granada has Roman fortification with Moorish influence. Arabic script and floral patterns are found embedded on parts of the Alhambra walls.
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