End of the Line

Well, well, well. My time in the land of cheap street food, endless bier, and a near millinium of history have too soon come to an end. I couldn't even explain how incredible and eye opening this trip has been in the length that I have here. Among my favorite things that we have done these past two weeks was the bike tour on only the first day. This was probably my favorite tour just because it was a great opportunity to be able to see nearly the whole city on a bike, which is like my favorite thing to do! The architecture in the city is absolutely beautiful. Berlin is comparable to a New York City with about half as many people in twice the area and much more aesthetic buildings. I am in love with the city. Another amazing experience for me visiting the Czech Republic for a weekend hiking trip. Ricardo's family took me to a small German town on the border of Czech called Rathen. This town is exactly what I think of when I think of a European village. The town was split by the River Elbe and the only access to either side was a single ferry that ran back and forth all day long. The town was surrounded by absolutely astonishing rock features and remains from medieval castles. The whole area was littered with magnificent history. On that Saturday we drove into the Czech Republic by train and then by ferry. Our hiking trip took place in a Czech National Park where we saw more incredible views and landscape and Europe's only land bridge. Our final day of the excursion we visited Germany's largest castle which was gianormous and of course beautiful. This final week I have experienced several tours regarding WWII and the DDR here having to do with post-war history. All throughout I have had ample time to just kick back and relax in Berlin with Ricardo, Zac, and many of my German friends that I have made while I have been here. I feel now that I might be ready to go home and see my family and friends to share all of my adventures and experiences. I haven't even left yet, though I am already missing döner, currywurst, schnitzel, the architecture, the culture, and the people. However, without a doubt I will be returning here to Germany before too long as I know that I always have a friend here with Ricardo. Until next time, Berlin.
Jacob Velliquette, signing off.