Greece interview

6/27

Finding someone to interview for Greece was a teeny bit challenging, but I did talk to the owner of the hostel we stayed in while in Athens. She was a bit older and spent some time growing up in the UK, but is half Greek and half British and has been living in Greece for many years. It actually was pretty helpful, because she could give me some outside and inside input for Greek culture. Anyway, here we go!

1 + 2. What do you like about Greece that you feel is unique?

Greeks have a passion for life. The culture tends to focus on friends and family.

3. How much time do you usually spend with family? What do you do together?

My family is partially out of town, but my Greek family spends a lot of time together, eating, drinking, taking, drinking coffee... Greeks tend to spend 6-7 hours doing this.

4. What are your plans in terms of education?

I'm finished with education, but typically Greek basic education is very good. Most Greeks feel for university, they need to leave Greece and go elsewhere.

5. What is a typical meal for your country?

Gyros and Slovaki are the fast food of Greece, but real Greek meals are stews in the winter and lots of salads and stuffed vegetables in the summer. There are lots of vegetables and beans, but not a lot of meat. If there's meat, it will be lamb or chicken. 

6. Do you play any sports? If not, do you do anything for physical activity?

I go to the gym, but Greeks are generally into sports also. Gyms are full, and since Greeks are close to a beach, there is a sense of "body culture" here.

7. Do you have a regular doctor that you go to yearly? Is it common to do this in your county?

Yes, Greece has a state run health care, but even though it should be free, doctors and nurses look for bribes to provide care. Sometimes they will do things "pro bono" or if they feel bad for you, but they're really looking for that little envelope. There is also private health care.

(Later mentions that Greeks do go to the doctor for checkups, and this is more for if you need care, but it can still apply)

8. How often do you go to the doctor?

When I need to. Greeks do love the doctor though, they want the attention and they definitely love their pills. But if an operation is needed, people don't really trust their doctors because they need to be bribed on most occasions.

9. Do you smoke?

Yes. Smoking is very common, most Greeks smoke too much.

10. Do you feel that Greece is overall healthy?

Yes, the diet is healthy, the life expectancy is high, and the climate is good. The life expectancy of even my mothers generation is into the 90s even though Greeks smoke and drink a lot- her generation is made if steel tanks. Now, mental health has caused a higher suicide rate here because of the crisis. Anxiety and depression are higher, but that is in recent years. Overall, Greek culture is emotionally expressive- if people are mad, they yell, if they're attracted to someone, they say so. Greek children are very playful and wild, where in the UK they aren't as open about touching each other, etc. I think the open attitude of Greeks is very mentally healthy, and makes them a healthier people. They tend to think that family and friends are always going to be there, so yelling and getting mad is ok, tomorrow you will be hugging.

Mykonos

6/26

Our last official stop, unless you count the night we're staying in Athens only to fly out the next morning... But I don't.

Mykonos is more touristy than Santorini, in my opinion. Definitely purely a vacation spot, so food, etc is more expensive. Our hostel is also a pool bar, club, and is attached to the beach. I'm not complaining! Though, the house music being played at all times does get a bit old.

Ayla and I have literally been hanging out and relaxing. We did go into town, which was just little shops and restaurants. The first night here, Monday night, we went out on the town and the most surprising thing- half of the stores, restaurants, etc in town, are literally open all night. A little boy even was trying to sell us something at 4 in the morning. They definitely cater to the young crowd willing to stay out all night. Reminds me of a college town!

Definitely will not be renting ATVs here, the roads are really narrow, and walled in!! When there are tour busses rounding those sharp turns, I do not want to be there on a teeny ATV. Because chances are, I soon would be squished on the wall enclosing their roads. 

Also, you really can't walk places here. They have bus systems going from beach to beach to town, which is convenient, but I know this island really isn't too huge, so walking should be more a accessible than it is.

Anywho, tonight is our last night in Mykonos. We plan to head to Paradise beach, where young people dance their pants off, and watch the sunrise on the walk home. 

Santorini, land of lovers.

6/25

Sunday on Santorini goes down as another one of my favorite days.

We started off the day trying to find out if we could switch our ferry reservations from Mykonos to Ios... It was the longest debate. We knew we wanted to go to another island, and we would be leaving on Monday, but all of the tourists we were asking said Ios is such a good time, and to go there. Asking the locals, everyone said Mykonos is the better island and was more fun. We ended up trusting the locals, and are thus on Mykonos at the moment.

Anyway, santorini. We rented ATVs and decided to explore the island. It's really really easy to rent them , and about half of the people on the island are using ATVs or motorcycles to get around. There was really just a few main roads, so we decided to wing it and see where we ended up!

We ended up at a lighthouse at one end of the island. Driving around the island, we literally felt like we were in a postcard. It's hard to not stop every 5 minutes to take a photo, though I took a lot... What can I say, I'm my mothers daughter!

Next we found Red Beach.

So, so beautiful. Santorini is a volcano, so all of the beaches have volcanic ash and rocks instead of sand. Red beach, obviously, has red ash. There is also Perissa beach, which was right near our hostel, which had black ash. 

We enjoyed some grilled corn and followed the signs to Fira, the capital. We parked, and got some lunch. I tried a gyro! So, yes, I've been a pescetarian for 11 years now. But that gyro was seriously mouth watering. Hate to say it, but it's true, definitely the best meat I've eaten thus far (in my opinion).

We shopped and talked to th locals running a lot of the boutiques- they were mostly young girls. It was very easy to strike up conversation, because everyone is so friendly. We've discovered most Greek people are willing to help confused tourists, and are excited to share their culture with us.

That night, we went to a beach club playing live music with, well, basically our whole hostel. We started dancing to the band, starting the party for the older crowd to join in. Best part was the wonderful sea breeze that swept into the open club, cooling everyone off.

The next morning, the owner of our hostel was going to give us a lift to the port to catch our ferry to Mykonos. On the way, we picked up a 10 year old boy, and stopped to get some watermelons from a fruit stand on the side of the road. Guess he had some errands to run along the way!

Bari, Patras, Piraeus, and beyond.

6/25

So who knows when this post will be uploaded, Internet has been incredibly sketchy here.

For a brief overview of our hectic travels to Greece-

We took a train from Rome to Bari, and took a bus to the port, getting in around 1.Our ferry was leaving at 8 that night, and everyone was to board starting at 6. We hung out at the port all day, not wanting to walk around Bari with our huge backpacks in the blistering sun.

The ferry ride was interesting. It was just like this huge cruise-ship type boat, but Ayla and I had deck tickets. This means when it came time to sleep... It was time to pass out anywhere that was available. On the floor. There was this theater type room, with airplane seats in it. We started off on the floor there (my arm fell asleep but the rest of my had a really hard time). Finally, around 1:30, I found a singe airplane seat and snagged it. Finally, at 5, more than half of the ferry got off at the Igumenista stop, and I got a whole row to myself. 

We got into Patras around 12:30, and split a cab to the nearest train station with 2 British girls who just graduated from Bath University. The cab driver was really nice and helped us with the right train stops, etc. once he left us, it was a little intimidating looking and signs and feeling like you're just stuck on Sorority and Fraternity row. Although I will admit- my knowledge of Greek letters did come in handy. And the locals were really friendly and helpful, though ,out spoke minimal English.

Once into Piraeus (port of Athens), Ayla and I found our hostel, exhausted and starving. We dropped our stuff off and turned right around to grab our ferry tickets, which was truly a struggle, seeing as we had been traveling for 36 hours by that point.

The next morning, we woke up at 5:30 to catch our 7:35 ferry to Santorini! Since we boutique tickets so late and this weekend is a Greek holiday weekend (who knew...) Ayla and I were forced to buy VIP tickets for this ferry. Safe to say we felt pretty important. And underdressed.

Our hostel was there to pick us up from the port, along with the others from our ferry. Finally, somewhere for more than a night.

Roasted Rome

6/20

Rome didn't like us. But really.

We took a 10:30 train out of Florence and got to Rome around 12. We found our hostel within about 30 minutes, and soon discovered we couldn't check in until 3, because there is a "room lock out period" from 10-3. Well, I hadn't slept at all the night before and Ayla slept for maybe 2 hours... We were ready to take a nap. We joined a few Irish girls feeling the same way in the hostel common area, and hung out until we got into our room, which turned out to be at 2.

Ayla wanted to shower and I was ready to pass out.

Little did I know, 15 minutes later I would be awoken by Ayla screaming my name from the shower- she had locked herself in.

We probably should have taken that as a hint- have you ever heard of anyone locking themselves in the shower? 

Anyway, after we got that sorted out and rested for a bit, we went out to see the Trevi fountain. We both made our wishes (like in the Lizzie McGuire Movie, of course), and then made our way to the Spanish Steps. In both of those places, people were gathered and just hanging out. Piazzas at night usually get pretty busy, with people socializing, drinking, and eating gelato. We enjoyed the people watching.

We walked back to our hostel, and met our roommates, Andy and Tom. Andy is a Chinese girl who just started traveling, and Tom is an Australian who has been traveling through the states and then through Europe. He was pretty entertaining.

The next morning, we all hit the town together.

We started at the Capuchin Crypts, which are made of 3700 different friar bones. Creepy! But very interesting. Tom has learned about the friars before, and said they believed pain was sacrifice; the first half of the building was a Capuchin museum that had all kinds of artifacts, including their whips and daggers used for pain.

Despite the odd feeling that you're looking at thousands of human bones, the crypts are quite artistic and beautiful.

Afterwards, we decided to just walk around the Vatican ( we weren't planning on touring or anything).

Poor choice! The entire mile radius around the Vatican was filled with tourist group after tourist group. We saw the area where the Pope speaks, and got lunch.

We then explored some ruins in the city (they are almost around every corner!), and saw the Pantheon. It was so refreshingly cool in there, we had to sit for a while.

Group photo! I think the highlight of that day was when a man asked Tom if he would take a picture WITH his wife, as in be in the photo. Apparently his wife liked Tom? Strange situation.

We walked from there to Piazza Navona, possibly one of my favorite spots in Rome. There are gorgeous fountains, artists, and one of restaurants around the piazza. Ayla and I also went there on our last night, where again, people were outside socializing and enjoying the atmosphere.

It was getting late, and we were exhausted, so Ayla and I headed back to the hostel. It was about an hour long walk... In total, we had literally walked from the Vatican back to our hostel, which is by the train station- across the whole city!

We met up with friends we met in Florence, the ones that go to University of Texas. It was their last night in Rome, so we enjoyed some pasta and bruschetta before they took a flight to Athens that next morning. We were (and still are) super jealous of their flight, because its going to take us two days to et to Greece, thanks to the inconvenient ferry schedules and long transportation times. 

Later that night, we all went out as roommates. Not a good experience... Got off the metro, couldn't find anything lively but a private gay party at Coyote bar. Plus, we ended up getting split into 2 pairs and having to meet back up at the hostel.

The next morning, we started out by saying our goodbyes to Tom. Hopefully he will be able to meet up with us in Ios (if we ever get there ourselves). Ayla and I set out for Trastevere, which is hands down, my favorite part of Rome. Small cobblestone streets, little boutiques and restaurants, flowers everywhere, and a beautiful park overlooking all of Rome- perfect!

We ate at an Italian buffet for lunch (only €7- we couldn't resist), and it was actually pretty delicious! Or, we were starving, either one. I got gelato at Fior de Luna, thanks to personal suggestions from family friends. Then, Ayla and I walked the steep hill to the park to have a nice nap. Gotta love those park naps. 

Something different about Rome is that there are fountains everywhere! Not just the decorative kind, but you can actually fill up your water bottles and cool off a bit in them. It was definitely needed, thanks to the 90 degree weather we had every day we were there. 

We were hoping for more of the view in the background, but you take what you can get, right?

W headed back to the hostel and made dinner, and then tried to explore Rome nightlife for the second night. Lesson of the night- night busses do not take the same route after 12. Rome had duped us for the third time.

Wednesday, our last day in Rome, we toured the Coloseum. Very very interesting, when we could hear the tour guide. I had no idea that under the stage of the Coloseum, there were aqueducts that filled with water! Apparently the emperor liked to have water competitions. 

We trekked to Campo dei Fiori, which is the site of a daily market, selling flowers, pasta, spreads, produce, and some jewelry. We also wandered into a shoe boutique, where we failed to notice that the huge mirror in back was not, in fact, a whole other side of the store, and almost walked into it. Embarrassed and obviously damaged by the sun, we decided to head back to the hostel early and get out of the harsh sun.

After our break. We enjoyed a great evening in Piazza Navona, listening to jazz and watching mimes, and then going back to Campo dei Fiori, where people also gather to socialize. 

We packed up and left this morning, and decided to hit up the ATM. Too bad the ATM never spit out my €100 I tried to withdrawl, just a lousy receipt. And the bank wasn't open. And we had an 8:05 train to catch. You win, Rome, you win. 

Italy interview

6/20

I interviewed the woman who works at the hostel desk, and she gave me mostly general answers for the Italian people- I think she got the drift that I wanted Italian culture information, so I got her generalizations to share.

1&2. What is your favorite part of Italy/ what do you think is unique about this country?

People take it slow. Most Italians think about the present, not about what will go in in 10 years.

3. How much time do you spend with your family? What do you do together?

Most free time is spent with family- it is very important to Italian culture. Even for those that are working, vacations are spent visiting family. There is also Sunday lunch, where families sit and slowly eat together, could be 5 hours long. Also, soccer is shown on Sunday, so families watch together.

4. What are your plans in terms of education in the future?

(Done with education, didn't specify). Most Italians get degrees because they're obliged to by their parents. They know they need one to work, but put very little effort into education.

5. What is a typical meal for your country?

Pasta!

6. Do you play any sports? What do you do in terms of physical activity?(answered based off general Italian culture)

It depends on the region. I see people jogging, elementary school kids play soccer after school or go swimming, girls like to dance...

7. Do you have a regular doctor that you go to yearly? Is this common in your country?

Yes, a public family doctor. They're good and cheap (free). Hospitals are free here, but slow and bad. First aid is fast, but for appointments, it could take months or even a year. Private hospitals can take only one day, but it could be €200 to book the appointment and another €300 for treatment. 

8. How often do you visit the doctors?

Whenever I don't feel well. Old people go often, up to 2 times a month!

9. Do you smoke?

No, but it is common in Italy. Students will go to the bathroom during school to smoke.

10. Do you feel hat your country is overall healthy?

Yes, there is nice weather and nice food. Italians are a lazy people, but good people. 

11. Private or public healthcare?

Both (see #7)

Something else that was interesting- the other girl working the desk was from the Philippines, but has worked in Italy for 7 years. She commented that she would go back to the Philippines to get medical attention because it would be better and faster there.

In school, we learned a lot about Philippine Nursing, and how serious it is. It's actually very similar to the US's views and work ethic related to Nursing. I asked her about it, and she said a friend of hers was taking Nursing classes in college, and she was always studying, and could never go out with them... Sounds familiar.

Also, they have to pass a yearly exam to continue Nursing.

On another note, I talked to Tom a bit about Nursing in Australia, and he said the same thing as Daisy- they need them. But he did say they get paid more, $80,000 to $90,000 for experienced/ specialized nurses.

Some observations about Italian culture-

People really do talk with their hands.

Italians are very friendly, and the male population tends to be too friendly.

We have seen more couples intensely kissing in public than anywhere else.

Greetings are done by kissing each cheek, like what we saw in France.

Italians prefer their own food- pasta, pizza, bruschetta, seafood, cheese, meat. There weren't as many differently cultured restaurants.

Differences between Europe and the USA

1. Public restrooms cost money. (Of course this is the first thing I observed...)

2. Drinking fountains don't exist (but we are finding some in Rome)

3. In grocery stores, you get charged for grocery bags.

4. Passionate couples making out in public (mostly in Spain and Italy)

5. Hidden service fee in restaurants.

6. Fruit markets are everywhere.

7. "Snack bars," which are places with drinks, sandwiches, and sometimes pastries or gelato, are about as frequent as fast food restaurants are in the states.

8. Gelato, gelato, everywhere.

9. Taking trains is one of the most common ways of travel.

10. Dinner could be anywhere from 6 until 12

11. Europeans know at least 2 languages.

12. Regular coffee is more like an espresso.

Firenze

Y6/16

We just arrived in Rome, but Thursday night, Friday, and Saturday were all spent in Florence. 

Thursday night we checked in, got groceries, and actually chatted with a lot of people in the hostel. This one was definitely an apartment with a lot of beds lofted in it, and one communal kitchen and living room area... Super cramped and definitely not clean all the time, but so social and fun!

We wandered around il duomo and met up with one of my best friends who I met through Camp Fernwood, Abby. She's studying abroad through Syracuse there, so once we figured out we were going to be in florence at the same time, we knew we were going to try to see each other as much as possible! 

We hung out with Abby's friends from studying abroad, and explored some of he nightlife in the city center (conveniently near il duomo, and near our hostel). We ended up running into some of the people we met at the hostel earlier that night, and they ended up tagging along for a bit too!

Friday , Ayla and I decided to go to The Uffizi Gallery first. The line was an journey and a half wait... S when a woman came up and offered a higher price but no wait in line, we took it, no afterwards realizing that's how people get scammed... Luckily it was an actually ticket with reservations.

The gallery is in the Medici house, and it is full of old white marble sculptures, including the one that inspired Michaelangelo for Brutus. Pretty cool! W enjoyed the paintings but breezed by a lot of the old paintings- if I had a penny for every old painting that I've seen on this trip...

Then we picnicked outside in the piazza, and made our way to meet Abby and go in il duomo.

Too bad you needed to cover our shoulders and we were all wearing tank tops. We got in the door , still, but weren't allowed to go very far in. Still amazing!

Guess that guy wanted the same photo as we did.

Friday night, we met up with Abby's friends again, after spending a lot of time getting to know some awesome students from UT Austin in our hostel (who we will hopefully be meeting up with in Rome!).

Anyway, how's this for culture- we decided to go out to the club called Twentyone, which is the one that Jersey Shore went to when they were in Florence.

As you can imagine, it was super classy.

Saturday was one of my favorite days on this trip. 

We started out at an Eames exhibit, and we rode our rented bikes there (mine had annoying squeaky breaks). After that, we rode over the Ponte Vecchio to get to the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens. Apparently, the Ponte Vecchio is famous because Hitler refused to knock it down because it was so beautiful. Then the people living on the bridge started getting annoyed by the tourists, so the apartments were replaced with jewelry stores- hence the name the Golden Bridge.

We ate dinner at the hostel, and there was this crowd of people waiting in the common area and kitchen... Chillin and waiting to get checked in. They had been waiting since 12. And it was like 8:30. The owner was nowhere to be found! It was a madhouse getting everyone checked in by the time they finally returned. Ayla and I just laughed.

Our hostel was filled that last night, all with British, Irish, and Australians. We picked up Abby, and then Ayla led pretty much the whole hostel to Space Electronic Club.

Just two old friends on a balcony in Florence!

City of Boats

6/16

Venice was a blur of wandering.  Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday were spent walking the streets of Venice, taking lots of pictures of the beautiful canals, and eating lots of falafel and pizza. 

Tuesday we got into the pension and cleaned up, and then went out to wander. We found a nice piazza with lots of dogs- so we had a great dog watching and petting fest. 

We ended up wandering to the Rialto bridge (multiple times, because it always seems to pop up). Venice is known as a wandering city, but it's legitimately hard to find things if you try.... So we took the opposite approach and stumbled upon shops and cool buildings, and piazzas.

Wednesday we took a water taxi to San Marco piazza, and, saw our first (and hopefully last) flasher waiting for that taxi. I will forever be trying to erase that unpleasant sight from my memory.

Scenic view from the water taxi!

Then we went to Doge's Palace, which was very interesting. Inside are rooms and councils used by the state starting in the 1200s to 1300s, some creepy and smelly prisons in the basement, and the personal favorite part for me (besides the upstairs view), were the old maps used in the times of the crusades. 

And while inside the Bridge of Sighs inside the palace, we stuck our hands through the stone design and waved to everyone taking pictures. A baby waved back! 

The rest of the day was spent like any other- wandering and spending time near the canal. We saw some crabs in the water, which we thought was quite exotic. 

We ate a nice dinner along the canal to celebrate Greta's last night on our adventure. She head back to Germany on Thursday, beause her Interrail pass was out of days. We all ordered ordered pasta, and we were all pleased with what we got. 

Thursday morning and early afternoon we spent in a piazza, hanging out and writing in our journals to record everything we've done (we are all really behind in those...) and then went back to the hostel to pick up our bags from the pension before our train ride at 3:25 (Greta's was later). Franca, the pension keeper, was nowhere to be found. We sat... And sat... And sat up until me had 30 minutes to get to the train station, get a ride to the next station over, and catch our train.

We sprinted and pushed, making it just in time to hop on the train, but only a minute to say bye to Greta. 

And then there were two.

Le Cinque Terre

6/13

(But we were there on 6/10)

My quads are still recovering from our Cinque Terre adventures- but really. These beautiful towns are set right in the hills on the coast of northern Italy, and if you aren't ready to do some stairs, go home.

We took the first shuttle into Riomaggiore at 8:30, and went to the train station to catch the train all the way to Monterosso, the last town in Le Cinque Terre. Apparently, because of the heavy rains the night before, trails were closed due to being slippery. We were definitely bummed... But what were we gonna do. It was sunny and not thunder storming like everyone thought. So, we bought the train pass between cities. I guess we were being ambitious wanting to hike to all 5 cities in one day, anyway.

Monterosso had the most open beaches, so this is definitely the place to go on a sunny day. 

We explored the coastline and into the coast and found this interesting statue holding up a building.

We spent about 2 hours there and continued on to Venazza, one of my favorites, for sure. This little town had a smaller beach (more like a port for colorful rowboats, of which there were plenty). We wandered the stairs in the alleyways of the town and explored that way, until we got tired and resided next to the little port on a flat rock, where we ate lunch and sat in the sun.

Onto Corniglia. Oy vey.

Right when we got off of the train, there was a sign saying "come to Corniglia! Climb the 365 steps to our town." What? What are we doing?

It probably wouldn't have been as bad if they hadn't told us the number.

We rewarded ourselves with gelato at the top- I got grapefruit and mixed berry. 

As we wandered this town, we saw hikers going from Corniglia to Venazza. Apparently it had been sunny enough that they opened some of the trails, but the ones connecting the towns in the direction we were going (which was next to Manarola) were closed due to a landslide. Just our luck.

Onto Manarola, where there were again, more colorful buildings, and a beautiful swimming cove down below. There were people lazing on the rocks and swimming in the cold Mediterranean. We had to at least dip our feet in. So, we did, but we were still extremely jealous of everyone swimming- it was literally the perfect day for a swim, and hiking around each town had definitely worn us out. 

So? We decided we would never see these people again, and hopped in with minimal clothing.

No regrets- the water was absolutely gorgeous, and the three of us treading and laughing will always be one of my favorite parts of this trip.

We got out and dried off in the sun.

And guess what? No one really cared nor noticed.

After about an hour of lying right next to the Mediterranean, we walked back up the ramp to the town, and ate at a nice Italian restaurant. I ordered sea bass torfie. I had absolutely no idea what kind of pasta torfie would be- turns out there small irregular spirals that look like larvae. If I didn't think about that, they were delicious!

Full and exhausted, we took the last train to Riomaggiore, and then back to our hostel.

The imperfect ending was trying to figure out ferries to the Greek islands. 3 days later, and still nothing is booked and the ferry website is down, what a headache. 

That Wildcard Australian Interview

6/13

Yes, I did this interview a while ago, back in Nice with our roommate Daisy. I figured, why not? The information is just as valuable even though I'm not in Australia to observe their culture on my own. Pus, I definitely want to travel to Australia one day, and Nursing there would be easier for me than in other places, because there is no language barrier.

Daisy, Australia near Byron Bay, 20 years old

1 and 2. What do you like best about your country (and think is unique about it)?

The beach culture, and the ease of going to the beach for an hour.

3. How much time do you usually spend with family? What do you do?

Eat together and hang out. If they're not working we spend more time together (during the day, when she's not backpacking).

4. What are your plans in terms of education in the future?

Going to Uni(versity) for Environmental science and then getting a job.

5. What is the typical meal for your country?

Steak and three veggies, like potatoes, carrots, and peas.

6. Do you play any sports/ what do you do in terms of physical activity?

I horseback ride, because we have horses and a lot of land. Otherwise, I like to work out about 6 times a week, doing anything from running, going to the gym, swimming, and cycling.

7. Do you have a regular doctor that you go to yearly? Is this common in your country?

No, I usually go to whoever is free. It is common to have a primary physician, but I don't like the one in my town.

8. He often do you visit the doctor?

Two times a yea, depending if something happens, like a broken leg, etc. 

9. D you smoke?

No. In Australia they're really trying to get people to stop. The taxes are so high, a pack is about $20.

10. Do you feel that your country is overall healthy?

I think so. We have actually been labeled the Mose obese country in the world, outweighing America. On the coasts, people are healthy and do a lot of things like surf, walk, etc. but as you go inland, maybe not so much. People are bored. From my town, if you drive about 45 minutes inland, that city doesn't have much to do. If you go to a McDonalds or a food court there, about 40% of the people there will be overweight (about).

11. Does your country have public or private healthcare?

I think through government we have Medicare. You can also get private. Say you're a teacher, you can get coverage through your union.

Then I asked her about Nursing in Australia:

Grossly underpaid (I asked for a number and she said $40,000), and they go under strike a lot. It's a huge problem in Australia. We definitely need more Nurses. As you work longer, your pay rate increases and the more beds you have will increase it as well, up to $80,000-$90,000. They also have long hours. 

So, overall, really good interview. And interesting! Sounds about similar to Nursing in the states in terms of pay, but I thought it was strange that she said the pay was "shit" when you can make up to $90,000.

But it sounds like I could get a job there because they're in need! ;) 

French Interview and Observations

6/12

You could say that all of France should have more pollution from smoking than cars. I know I've mentioned it before but nearly everyone smokes! 

As for food, the are fresh markets everywhere. We even saw a lot in Paris. Their produce is definitely fresh! In Nice, there was a lot of seafood offered, since we were on the coast. 

The vast majority of people were slender.

My interview was with the girl who worked at the leather goods store, Juliet. She's 22, and from Nice.

1 and 2. What do do you like best about your country?

My country, or Nice? France is split up into so many providences, and each has their own culture. I like Nice because it has the sea and the mountains, and it's small, but popular. In Old Nice, everyone knows everyone. Also, there is no pollution because its a small village. 

3. How much time do you usually spend with family, and what do you do with them?

I visit every Sunday, and we eat!

4. What are your plans in terms of education?

I want to be in leather working school, but right now I'm in school for Psychology. I'm still not sure. I have 2 years yet but we'll see... I have an exam on the 18th that I haven't studied for yet.

5. What is the typical meal for your country (or for Nice)?

A lot of vegetables. We have a very Mediterranean diet- fish, bread, veggies, eggs, and oil instead of butter... Produce is fresh. 

6. Do to play any sports or do anything for physical activity?

Tried pole dancing as a sport, and now she runs on her own.

(yes, I did clarify, she said pole dancing. She clarified that I was not exotic, and almost like gymnastics in Europe)

7. Do you have a regular doctor that you go to? Is this common in your country?

Yes, primary physician. And yes.

8. How often do you visit the doctors? 

Old people go very often, but for me it depends how sick I get. Maybe 3 or 4. 

9. Do you smoke?

I used to smoke 1 or 2 cigarettes a day, but I quit last month.

10. Do you feel that your country (or Nice), is overall healthy?

Yes.

11. Does your country have national or private health care?

We have Social Security and Mutuality. Say you pay €30, Social Security will pay €5 and Mutuality will pay the rest. You pay Mutuality insurance (she said its like health insurance).

So, there are definitely similarities to the US, like the education being 4 years, and she's studying Psychology, which is definitely common in the US. 

The health-conscious people in the US try to eat "the Mediterranean" diet to be healthier, or to lose weight. 

I know tons of people that run to stay in shape (but not so much pole dancing).

And, the fact that she quit smoking is very admirable, but deviates from a lot of the French culture. I'm not sure about the American culture. 

Look forward to an Australian interview next!

Côte d'Azur, Nice edition

The6/9

Nice is nice! ... Hah.

But really- I think this was one of my favorite stops yet. Ad we definitely say that at half of the stops because how do you not when you're backpacking Europe.

Day one started around 2 when we got off of the shortest traveling trip yet! So great. Our hostel was close and easy to find from the station. Once in, we walked down the Main Street that heads towards Place Massena and Old Nice to begin our explorations. Old Nice is really where most things are, it's like the culture is mainly collected just in that area by the beach. There are cobblestone streets, little shops, Marche des Fleurs (flower and produce market- so great!)

We found an authentic leather store around a corner, where the hand make sandals, purses, wallets, bracelets, etc out of different colored leather. While we were in there, I watched the owner nonchalantly talk to customers and dye a purse black. 

Since all of the gladiator sandals were hand made.... I had to get a pair. Best part is, I found the pair I wanted and tried them on. The straps were loose in some areas, because I have narrow feet- this is the problem I always have when trying to buy sandals. So, the other person working there, a 22 year old girl named Juliet, had the boss fix the straps right in front of me! It was so cool, and I finally have a pair of sandals that fits my feet. And some scars from breaking in real leather sandals...

I ended up using Juliet for my France interview, so that will be in another post. 

We cooked dinner when we got back, and met up with Edgar and Daniel, two of our friends that we met in Barcelona. We ended up hanging out at the beach (which is all grey rocks instead of sand) until late, enjoying the sea breeze.

The next morning, we wanted to rent bikes and go along the coast, and we invited one of our roommates, a 20year old Aussie named Daisy. Unfortunately, without a French ID, they make you pay a €250 deposit for the bikes, and putting that kind of money down on a card while you're backpacking isn't really practical. So, we walked, like always.

We first went to the castle on the hill, which gives another amazing view of the South of France. W picnicked , again, with a breathtaking view. 

We made our way down to the beach after that, because it was quite the beautiful beach day.

The water was really cold at first, but getting used to it didn't take long. Then it was just really refreshing. Well, and salty. I guess there's a difference with swimming in oceans and seas. 

Another difference is the swimwear- a lot of women go topless, and most men wear a speedo style suit. I get the impression that the French are just more comfortable with their bodies and with nudity than Americans, because really either one of these swimwear options in the states would draw either negative attention (for the most part), or, well, be illegal. 

We walked to the port, and up through the Antique district, a permanent feature of town. How different and cool! 

I spent the rest of the afternoon at the Contemporary Art Museum, while the others walked home. The museum was honestly great- there were great installations, even outside the museum, and the roof had a great terrace surrounding it. 

(Installation from above)

(Part of the terrace)

That night, we cooked again, and I headed out with another roommate, Sarah, to see what Nce nightlife had to offer. Most were small bars and clubs with a little bit of dancing, but probably the largest collection of people that we saw that entire night were those outside smoking in the small, cobblestone streets. 

Daisy had told us earlier that day that in Australia, smoking is really on the outs. The taxes are so high, that if you were to buy tobacco and a pack of rolling sheets, it would probably be about $50?? Definitely not the case in France, where its about €5. I ended up interviewing Daisy as well, even though I'm not currently traveling to Australia, I would love to some day. And, it's just more interesting stuff for me!

The next morning, the three of us plus Daisy headed out to Monaco. The owner of the hostel told us to catch the bus at the wrong stop, so we ended up wandering a bit more than expected. 

I was definitely glad I wore something nice, once I got off of the bus into Monaco. Everyone seemed to be in their best. While we were picnicking, Daisy even commented on how the pigeons looked cuter,.. I don't know about all that, but all of the buildings and the streets were neat and tidy.

We went into the Monte Carlo (and admired all of the nice cars out in front first). It was definitely nice, but going into the building almost takes some of the magic and exclusivity out of it. Because anybody can just walk in, after checking your bag and showing ID.

Monte Carlo, everyone!

Anyway, we stopped at a supermarket to buy some chocolate and caught the bus back to Nice. Both bus rides were only €1 and were actually quite scenic- we drove along the coast the whole time! 

When we got back, I made everyone see the terraces at the museum, since we were so close to them! 

That night, the four of us met up with our roommates from the night before (they switched hostels) and hung out on the streets of Nice, on Cours Selaya, which is where hoppin' bars and restaurants seem to be.

This morning (6/9) was just a travel day. A long one.

We're in a hostel called Ostello, somewhere in the mountains of northern Italy, near le Cinque Terre national park. It's supposed to be rainy tomorrow on our long walk... We're crossing our fingers (as is everyone else at this hostel, because we all have the same plans for tomorrow!) but if it rains, we will just have to deal.

Côte d'Azur

6/9

It's been a few days! Since my last post, I have been thoroughly enjoying myself in the south of France. We started in Cannes, and where there from the 4th until the 6th. Cannes is fairly small, and gets nicer as you walk towards the beach- it looked nice by our budget hotel, but the buildings got nicer until it was like walking down a tropical 5th avenue, where one side was the sandy beach, and the other was Chanel and Cartier stores. Past the stores, there are several very fancy hotels across the street from the beach. 

We arrived later in the day, and wandered towards the beach to try and find food. Mistake. All of the restaurants had plates for at least €10, and anything that would have been less expensive was closed for the night. So we bit the bullet and splurged on a nice dinner. I won't even tell you how much mine cost, but I will say I've paid less for hostels. Such is life in Cannes, where there are most likely gold toilet seats.

The night was spent hand washing essential clothing.

The next morning, we packed up for a day of beach lounging and wandering. The spot we found on the beach was right in front of the Palais des Festivals, where the film festival and other bigger events are held. 

Yeah, we fell asleep. 

We walked around La Croisette (that whole nice area), and up a hill, Le Suquet, at one end of the city. We picnicked on top and found a museum, La Musee de Castree, which had ancient artifacts from different cultures around the world. And, an amazing view of Cannes.

And the sea!

Another thing we noticed about the museum was how nice everyone was! The security guards joked around with us, the woman at the front greeted us with smiles and questions of where we were from... Definitely different from Paris. The people even made comments to us on the street, just about anything. Very friendly. 

There wasn't much to do but wander the streets and enjoy the little boutiques and candy shops, so that's what we did. 

That night we decided to get take out food and picnic on the dock with some French teenagers, who were all smoking and listening to music. We didn't mind the DJ-ed dining.

That night was also spent walking up and down La Croisette, talking to different people along the way. We met some Spaniards with very cute dogs, and a group of older folk from Texas.

The Spaniards had very cute dogs. We had to take a picture with them.

(Ayla has started this project called Dogs of the World, where she takes pictures of cute dogs... Of the world. There's an album on Facebook.)

Ayla and I went to an Irish pub later that night, and enjoyed some hippies playing American tunes from the 70s to 90s. Most of the people there, including a lot of young people, sat outside smoking. Throughout all of the south of France that seemed to be common- smoking is very very common, and a social thing to do.

The next morning we headed to Nice!

Under the Catalonian Sun

6/4

Ohhh Barcelona. Little did I know, this city seems to be ready to secede from the rest of Spain and become its own little Catalonian country. 

We arrived pretty late on Saturday night, and decided to skip metro nonsense and just take a taxi. Splitting it 3 ways broke us about even to a metro ticket, anyway. Arriving at our hostel, St. Christopher's, was like a dream come true- finally a nice, young, clean hostel. W walked into a lobby packed with young people, including those hanging out around the bar/restaurant attached to the hostel lobby.

We dropped off our stuff into our room and explored what options were open for dinner at 10 on a Saturday. True to Spanish culture, pretty much everything was open. I even found a soy froyo place- first one thus far! Totally ate dessert before dinner that night.

We ate at a delicious Italian restaurant, and wandered back to the hostel. Looking for something exciting to do that night, we wandered around Las Ramblas, which were very alive. Including sketchy older guys who sit with six packs of beer and offer one to girls as they walk past. No gracias...

There are also a lot of club promotors that walk Las Ramblas, handing out fliers for deals on entry into their club. It gets pretty competitive! We ended up going to Boulevard, which is apparently quite popular, due to the mass and line out the door.

The next morning, we started off with a free walking tour provided by the hostel. We lasted for about an hour and a half of walking around the gothic part of the city, through cathedrals, and the Jewish quarter. We broke off right after seeing this beautiful public display of Picasso, demonstrating a Catalonian tradition where different groups compete to build the highest tower- of people! Little did we know, later that day, we would be seeing the real competition go on in front of the government buildings in Barcelona! 

Here's the Picasso:

And Greta's head. 

After we broke off from the tour, we ate tapas, and then enjoyed meringues and gelato. And that's when I stumbled upon the Catalonian tower competition. Unfortunately, I don't have an uploadable photo for you!

We then walked to Casa Batllo:

Then Casa Mila:

Then, finally. Sagrada Familia. Ayla and I decided to go in (going into any of the Gaudi structures is very expensive, so we decided to commit to one of the buildings). It was unbelievable- we had goosebumps the whole time. The beauty in that church, from the stained glass, to the tall pillars, spiral staircases, metal doors... It may sound like an ordinary church, but it's so much more. Walking around the Sagrada Familia, there are notations on Gaudi's inspirations, as well as reasons for his designs. For example, the massive pillars throughout the church branch off towards the top. Turns out, Gaudi wanted to create the feeling of being in a forest.

He also created all of the windows to direct the light almost equally throughout the church (natural light), but to also direct the most light towards the Jesus in the front of the church.

The shapes used in his designs are all inspired by nature. His love for nature comes from his childhood, which was spent almost entirely exploring nature and natural life. For all of his buildings, he wants to integrate the natural landscape into his architecture. 

Cool doesn't even cover it. 

After this adventure, we stopped at a supermarket, and made dinner back at the hostel.

Also, back at the hostel, we discovered we had new roommates. And they were all really cool! Finally. We spent the night getting to know each other.

And the random things one may bring on a Europe backpacking trip.

Like a batman mask.

Yesterday was spent at the beach, Playa de Barcelona, which was literally right next to the city. It was great to relax and people watch. Not so great? The burns on all of our backs. Mine is the most awkward looking... Half of my back is the lightest tan, while one uneven section is bright red. Still don't understand how that happened.

Anyway,

Hello from la playa!

And we built this awesome sandcastle!

We wish.

The day ended with us once again at a supermarket, making dinner, wandering the streets....

Then checking out Apolo club for "Nasty Mondays" which is "the hottest thing to do on a Monday night." 

The hottest thing for hipsters, we soon discovered.

The neat thing was the music though, for sure. The DJ played old Beatles music, the Romantics, and other older tunes that us youngsters could dance to. The change of pace was definitely refreshing! 

And way less nasty than other clubs/club music. The name is quite deceiving.

We got home quite early in the morning, just enough time to catch a few hours of sleep before hopping back onto a train.

On to Cannes! Bonjour, South of France!

First thing is first. Where's the sunscreen. 

Cultural Observations about Spain

My last day in Spain and I found someone for my interview! 

One of the girls working in the hostel seemed to be speaking really smooth Spanish... Not that that really means too much because so many people study in Spain that aren't Spanish, but she is from Barcelona and grew up here.

Noelia

1-2 what is your favorite part about your country/what do you think is unique about it?

I like how we take life easier here- we don't care as much about money or careers, we will still take time to sit back and drink a beer.

3. How much time do you usually spend with family? What do you usually do?

I see them once a week usually, just because of work. Otherwise I would go to see them more. When I go, I stay for a while to see them.

4. What are your plans in terms of education?

I studied in America for a year, but in Spain it's different. Most people don't go to University, they usually do post grad. University is like the military, most people quit because its really hard.

5. What is the typical meal for your country?

Spanish omelette- tortilla with potatoes, onions, and egg.

6. Do you play any sports? If not, what do you do in terms of physical activity?

We love football here, but it's not like America where there are lots of teams. 

7. Do you have a regular doctor that you visit? Is it common to do this in your country?

I go to the doctor often and so do a lot of people, because it is paid for by the government.

8. How often do toy go to the doctor?

About once a month. Older people go a lot more often, some every day.

9. Do you smoke?

Yes.

10. Do you feel that your country is overall healthy?

Mostly.

11. Des your country have National or Private healthcare?

Both, most people take advantage of the national healthcare. 

I've noticed that a lot of people in Spain smoke. There are cigarette machines in most restaurants and bars, and on the streets, most times I've breathed in I've been able to smell smoke. 

People walk around the streets at night at really all hours-the night life is very lively. There are many baguette places and sandwich places open pretty much all night...and some Burger Kings as well. 

Tapas and paella are served pretty much everywhere! As well as sangria. 

There definitely is a laid back feeling in Spain. The people are always sitting outside at restaurants enjoying a meal, and most stores are closed for siesta, taking a mid day break.

Also, people do eat dinner very late. It is not uncommon to be out at a restaurant until midnight- you probably wouldn't even notice it was that late because there are still so many people around. I know we didn't!

The quickest day in Seville

6/2

Seville was seriously here and gone so fast... Right now I'm already in Barcelona trying to remember everything we did there.

I believe the first day, we wandered around trying to find our hostel for too long... The sign was teeny!

Once found, though, we couldn't stay mad for too long. There was a terrace bar and pool. (The pool was hot tub sized and probably 70 degrees inside, but it was a pool nonetheless.) and from the terrace, we noticed a strange building called "the Mushroom"- a building to contrast the old architecture in the rest of Seville.

We wandered the small, cobblestone streets that night with two Bosnian backpackers in the room just below ours. People were flooded into the streets; the small city definitely had a lot of life.

I just noticed the flamenco shop behind us! We saw that the following night.

The next morning we were awakened by street performers outside of our open window. You would think that would be nice, but we weren't too pleased. You can't ignore Spanish singing even if you want to. 

We started off the day going to see the cathedral, famous for its beautiful architecture and tall, climb able tower with the best view of Seville from the top. 

Hola, Seville! I swear, everyone has a rooftop terrace and a pool there (which we could see from up there). So jealous.

We then ate lunch next to the cathedral, constantly interrupted by gypsies trying to sell us strange trinkets and spices, or just begging for money. 

Afterwards we headed to my favorite place in Seville, the Alcazar Royal Gardens. They were so beautiful- enclosed by walls covered in blue designed tiles. These gardens have many pools full of fish, fountains, and even peacocks wandering the grounds. We tried to relax on a nice grassy patch, it apparently royal grass is not for lying, only looking. 

My money belt is showing! Oh how embarrassing.

We talked with an artist after leaving the gardens. She is from Denmark, but now spends her days sitting outside the royal gardens painting the beautiful tiles in watercolors, all in shades of blue. I wanted to buy one, but with traveling for another month, I'm nervous it would get crunched along the way in my bag. Ayla took the risk, though. 

It's woman was a traveler as well, and told us stories of exploring Europe. Also she gave us suggestions of where to go in Italy, which is always appreciated. 

We wandered to Plaza de Espana, only to find that there is really no grass to lay in there, either. So, as a last resort, we went back to the rooftop terrace pool.

That night, Ayla and I attended a flamenco show. There was a guitar player, singer, and two dancers on the stage. One flamenco dancer performs at a time in order to preserve the connection between the music and the dancer, so we're told. The singer was so passionate, it almost looked like she was in pain. It didn't help that I couldn't understand anything she was saying... Bt overall it was a really great experience. Flamenco is very captivating and an intense show, an hour passed by without notice.

The next morning, we woke, ate, wandered and shopped, and were on our way to Barcelona.