The last adventure for UNK 2K15

The last adventure for UNK 2K15

Our last field trip included traveling the west side of the Czech Republic, also known as Bohemia. The places we visited included Litomyšl, Kutná Hora, and Český Krumlov. In Litomyšl we visited a renaissance castle and listened to a presentation about the city’s history. It was interesting to know that they city is trying to increase its popularity with tourists, so major renovations have been in place. One of the most interesting things we saw in Litomyšl was a microbrewery. The brewer was kind enough to show our class how he produced beer. Afterward we were able to have a glass in the restaurant connected to the brewery, it was quite good.

Before we reached the next city, Kunta Hora, we visited Ležáky Memorial. It was built in memory of a city that was destroyed during World War 2. The city was destroyed because it was thought to be involved in the assassination of a major Nazi leader.

After arriving in Kunta Hora the class visited Sedlec Ossuary under the Church of All Saints. The church was overwhelming at first because there were thousands of human remains used as decorations. Thankfully it was only the bones that were used, and nothing too graphic. From the ceiling there was a chandelier made of human bones, and on all four corners of the church there were pillars of bones. All of the remains were people who fell victim to the black plague. Although this was a devastating illness it was still safe to observe the remains. The next sight Kunta Hora offered were the silver mines. It was extremely claustrophobic, which gave me some insight into the working conditions. With barely enough light to see a couple feet in front of them the miners were submitted to dangerous conditions. The last sight in Kunta Hora was a church which had been neglected for several decades. There was literally trees growing in the middle of it. After it’s renovation it presents a combination of past and present architecture and design.

On our way to our final destination, Český Krumlov, we stopped at Budweiser Budvar Brewery. We took a tour of the Brewery and were told the brewing process of Budweiser. It was especially interesting because we saw the microbrewery previously. Once at Český Krumlov we settled in and were able to shop around the town. It is known as the “fairy tale” for obvious reasons. It has elegant wooden brides, a large castle, medieval architecture, and a river flowing through the middle of town. As beautiful as the city is, it was flowing with people. It has become quite the tourist destination. Although our group was also touring the city and therefore had no right to complain about other tourists, it would have been so nice to see the town without the large mass of people crowding the streets. One of the most beautiful parts of the castle in Český Krumlov was the theater. The theater was famous for its innovation in stage changes. It would take seconds to change a stage display instead of minutes. It was executed by an advanced system (for the time) of pulleys and levers.

Although it was a gloomy day our group decided to go rafting down the river. So with life jackets and coats we headed down the river! Lastly, our entire group had one last family dinner at a restaurant down the road. I will say one thing, the food in Český Krumlov was some of the best fire pit meat I have ever had. The meat was perfectly smoked and fall off the bone. After our meal we gathered together in the lobby of our hostel and presented awards like “most likely to…” or “best at…”, things that displayed what we had learned about each other throughout the past 3 months. It was fun hearing what people had come up with. Although it was all laughs, it made me realize that this was the end. In the morning I would leave for Prague, and our adventure as a group would be over. I wasn’t terribly sad, because I knew I had made some great friends!

Although I have returned to the United States, I can look back at what I experienced and smile! I thought I would come back and talk my friends and families ears off, but after being asked about my experience, I found it hard to bring it to words. I had been told by previous study abroad students that this would be something that you cannot truly share with others. It makes me realize that although I have blogged about my experience, not everything can be explained, like the little things that our group experienced, the inside jokes, the things that will simply have to stay in Europe. I have been convinced that I will go back to Europe, there is so much to see and do, and although I had 3 months dedicated to such a beautiful place, I feel like I have barely scratched the surface.

P.S. I would have loved to share pictures from my experience in this last blog, but I was pick pocketed in Paris (a trip after I left Český Krumlov). I lost my phone which contained all of my pictures. Yet another lesson I learned.

(2) THE END... sort of

Life in Olomouc, academically speaking, is very different from the United States. Although I have touched some on the academic life, I thought since I have just finished finals it would be good to give an overview of my experience.

At the beginning I was quite surprised when there were no tests in the special lecture classes. These classes included a multitude of professors talking about European history, economics, culture, development, and so on. However, there was a “test” in the Czech Language class. It was more of self-examination to see how you were doing in the class. At the end of the semester we were informed there would be two finals, one on the special lecture classes we attended, and another on the Czech language. With a whole note book of notes just for the special lecture class I thought it would be a daunting task.

After our last class of the semester there was a party for all of the students in the back of the history building, where we attended classes every day. At the party were a few of the professors from class. After consuming a few beverages and enjoying some grilled food we talked to Martin, one of our main guides and professors from the semester. He informed us to have a good time and not to worry about finals. Hold on. This was something I never would have heard from a professor back in the states. I laughed at him as if I caught his joke, but then he looked at me seriously and told me to enjoy the end of year party. Having stressed the entire day for the upcoming test, I was confused on how to act. Do I return to the dorms and study diligently, as is required for any of my test in the United States, or do I take my teachers advice and enjoy myself? Unsure of what was to come on the examination I decided to find a happy medium. I stayed at the party and socialized with some of the local students and professors, and then went home to briefly look over my notes.

The final was unlike any test I had taken. I guess I shouldn’t say “any test” because there was multiple choice and essay. The multiple choice portion was simple because there is simply four answers to choose from; however, the essay questions were difficult. In the United States, the essay questions are very specific and you must use specific information in the essay. In the essay questions assigned for the final it was open for interpretation. Of course the essays had to relate to the special lectures, but other than that it was open to what you learned from the lecture, not a specific set of notes or power points given. Although it sounds like it would be easy, it was actually very difficult to come up with my own thoughts, at least at first. Once I got an idea in my head I was able to run with it and write an essay. Another essay presented was that you had to pick a topic to write about, and then pick a point of view to write from. For instance, I chose to write about propaganda during World War 2, and I chose to write it from a social perspective, in other words, how society viewed and was influenced by propaganda. I thought this was extremely fun! I got my mind to think in new ways that other tests never had. I not only recalled information I learned from the year, but I was also able to present my own ideas on the test.

Overall, I was impressed with the way European classes were run. It is an environment that is not high pressure. Yes there was pressure to learn, but it was fun. I didn’t feel like the information was forced down my throat. Rather, I could consume the knowledge at my own rate, and I felt motivated to do so. 

(8) Poland

A perspective change is always good. It can keep a person in check, and it can help to create a more open mindset. Sometimes these changes are small, but many times they can be life changing. Visiting Krakow this weekend was one of those experiences. I was able to view a city that was not destroyed during World War 2, and that is absolutely beautiful in its architecture and culture. 

Our first moments in Krakow were filled with eye appeal. The architecture was similar to Olomouc, but had more clean feeling. The street layouts actually made sense compared to many other European cities. This is because other European cities did not have an organized street plan; instead they were designed around a city square. Other than that, there was no rhyme or reason for the cities' design. Fortunately Krakow seemed organized. 

Our first day in Krakow was partially filled with the history of the nearby castle and the Schindler’s museum. However, the second day, Auschwitz, was the most intense experience of the Poland trip, if not the entire study abroad trip. Throughout high school I had been educated on some of the events during the World War 2 and the Holocaust. This included reading “Night” by Ellie Wiesel, a survivor of the Holocaust and a Nobel Peace Prize winner for his efforts post World War 2. 

When we entered Auschwitz and saw the original sign saying “work will make you free”, which was still standing at the entrance. I can only imagine what the Jews and other minorities thought. It is a menacing sign that offers the hope of freedom, but only through suffering. Obviously now I know that this was one of the many mind games Nazi Germany used to control their victims. One of the first items we were shown on our guided tour was of an urn, which is the last of the victims. It was a shame to see that such a small urn was meant to represent so many of the lives lost. It was another reminder of the efforts the Nazis used to hide their concentration camps, disposing of all possible human remains, so all that was found when Auschwitz was liberated was a small amount of human ashes.

The next pictures shown are recreations of what the prisoners had to go through when entering the gas chambers. On the left the prisoners would enter the undressing room and were told to take off their clothes. The Nazi’s would tell the prisoners to remember where their clothes were so as to convince them that nothing was going to happen to them, except for a shower. In the next room, fake shower fixtures were hung to make it seem like a real shower room. Finally, the room holding with over 2,000 people, would be filled with Zyklon B gas. This type of mass killing was used at Auschwitz-one until 1943.

The map next to our tour guide depicts how Auschwitz-two (Birkenau) was built for faster extermination of the Jewish population. Birkenau, housed approximately four times as many prisoners, and was used in 1944. The rest of the tour was a description of the deplorable living conditions the prisoners were exposed to as well as the violent treatment outside of the gas chambers. Some of the most unimaginable treatment was used. Never had I felt so fortunate in my life, and wanted to take back every complaint I had ever had. 

Our last bit of the tour was at Auschwitz-two, Birkenau. This tour showed us the living conditions at the larger camp, and how mass executions were carried out on a larger scale. The picture below is one of the gas chambers the Nazis used, but was destroyed a week before the liberation of the camp. In the picture shown, you can see the hall, which the prisoners had to walk down before entering the gas chamber. An eerie feeling of past victims was still present.

Although this blog was graphic, I believe it is necessary to be aware of the past. These events could have been hidden from history had it not been for the liberation efforts of multiple military groups. Thankfully, historical sights such as this can educate society, and create a global effort for a better future. the picture below shows the memorial at Birkenau.

(10) POPRAD, SLOVAKIA

My experience so far with any journey has been not to expect anything, because if you do it will only lead to disappointment for two reasons. 1) You will not find what you expected or 2) your expectations were too high. On this trip I tried to do the usual and not expect anything. I wanted the trip to be exciting, but knew things might not turn out for the best because I did not know the area. Fortunately for Marissa, Siming, and I this trip turned out to be one of the best weekend trips so far!

Day 1: when we first arrived in Poprad, after a 5 hour train ride, it appeared very dull. There was carnival, which looked deserted, and the streets were empty. Our group was a little worried, but having experienced this before, I told them only the best of things come from the most unusual beginnings. When we walked in our hostel we were immediately greeted by the owner. She checked us in, and we headed downstairs with our maps to figure out how to get to the hiking trails. Soon we realized that getting anywhere in Poprad requires a lot of prior planning, which we had not done. Fortunately there was a local who began to talk with us, asking the usual questions about our origins and what we were doing in Poprad? It turns out she was a foreign exchange student 8 years ago, and loves to meet people from new cultures. Before we knew it she offered to drive us to the mountains to go hiking! Unfortunately, it was too cloudy to see anything. With our spirits down, we went to supper with our newly found friend, Ivana. After a lot of questions comparing cultures and backgrounds, she offered to provide transport for our second day!

Day 2: Out of the kindness of her heart, Ivana drove us to Spis Castel, one of the largest castles in Europe. It was a beautiful sight with a lot of history! After touring the castle we headed for the High Tatras, where we hiked 3 hours to the nearest waterfall! It was a long day of walking, and our last stop at the hot springs, in poprad, provided us with the relaxation we needed. Although this blog is shorter and the story doesn’t explain every detail, it should be an example of how optimism can completely change an experience. Also, being open to the locals can lead to the most unexpected journey! Without meeting Ivana, we would have only been able to do the castle, but instead we had the trip of a lifetime. I got to see and do things that I only thought I would see in flyers. I also got to meet a life time friend from another country.

(6) SOCIAL LIFE IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC

Everywhere I have visited, whether it is in Europe or the United States, has a different social atmosphere. The people have different languages, but I’m not talking about the verbal language. I’m talking about the nonverbal ques, the social feeling, the way people express themselves. That is what I have noticed most about being in Europe. That means I am constantly adapting to the environment. I have been in Europe for 46 days now, the majority of which has been spent in one social sphere, Olomouc. Olomouc is a quiet town, with humble people. My first impression of this town was that it was depressing. The people are soft spoken, and being loud is not a social norm. It was difficult for me to talk to the locals that did know English, not because I was scared of them, but because I didn’t want to offend them. The American culture has the stereotype of being loud and obnoxious, so it is easy to see where the two cultures may not mix. However, now that I have a feeling for the social environment of Olomouc it is easier for me to talk with the locals. I know that during the day, it is better to have a calmer attitude about things, but during the night, the locals enjoy a “louder” environment at the local pubs. Seeing as how the Czech Republic is one of the highest consumers of beer in the world, it is easy to see the correlation between an increased social environment and the evening events.

This has also taught me a lesson. In the United States I feel like my social groups are always trying to talk over one another. Discussions become a clustered mess of people yelling and people one-up each other. Here in Olomouc, when I’m talking to a local, I feel like they are truly listening, and it feels great to have them respond to what I am saying, and not responding just so they can get their word in. I believe the social context of Olomouc has increased my want to listen to people, to hear their story. I’m not saying I don’t listen to my friends, but I am saying that I can get caught up in a loud group. Our Czech professor taught us that when you ask a Czech how they are doing, it truly means you are interested in their life. However, in the states, I feel like a casual, “how are you?” is only a formality. Although my initial experience in the Czech was rough, I believe I have learned a great deal about patients and listening.

(10) SPRING BREAK: NAPLES, ITALY

In my previous blog I talked about Venice, Italy, and that I was surprised by my experience there. The next city on my travels is called Naples, Italy. This was perhaps the biggest surprise I have had in Europe yet! Although it has many interesting stories, I will share the most exciting events.

Naples, Day one: Our arrival to Naples was not a pleasant one. When we were dropped off at the airport we tried following the hostels directions; however this only let to more confusion and us circling the same city block about 5 times. Finally after finding someone who spoke decent English, we found the bus stop and were on our way to the hostel (Giovanni’s Hostel). This hostel was the most unexpected piece of haven. As soon as we walked in the owner, Giovanni, greeted us with open arms and a glass of water (the hike to his hostel is quite steep). At first glance the hostel looked rather run down and we were a bit disappointed. Soon Giovanni gave us our keys and told us what the rules of the hostel where. We thought that was it, because every hostel we have stayed in was very unpersonable, but Giovanni asked if we would sit down so he could describe “his” city to us. We looked at him a bit odd, but he explained that Naples is a beautiful city with so much to offer and going into it with no direction would be a shame. Since we had no other plans we listened as he mapped out our entire vacation for us. Including where we should go, when we should go, and how to get there! To top it off Giovanni then asked if we were hungry and proceeded to make us lunch, pasta of course. He was one of the most generous men I have ever met. Day one was filled with tours, attractions, and the best pizza I have ever had! It was a little restaurant called Sorbillo’s Pizza. The wait was around 1.5 hours, but boy was it worth it! The crust was thin and soft, the herbs strong, and the sauce was silky smooth. I couldn’t believe what I was eating! That night ended early because we had a long next few days.

            The next 3 days I will condense into this last portion, I believe that the first day influenced our experience so much that the details were necessary. The second day was spent on a little island 40 minutes off the coast of Naples called Procida, Italy. This Island is the most underrated, hidden gem in all of Italy, and possibly Europe! The island is not a tourist trap, but the locals love to have tourists come and experience what they have to offer. They have kept the Island completely original, and want to keep it that way. The buildings are painted in multi color and along a hilly island that is very small. Just looking at it it looks like a painter had a lot of fun creating a work of art. Our initial view of the city was by the harbor, but once we climbed to the highest peak on the island I was at a loss for words to describe the view. 

The view of the city was epic because it was so imperfectly perfect. The buildings were built many years ago, and since then modern architecture is rare, and only allowed if it is built the same way it was done years ago. I wish I could explain this magnificent sight in more detail, but this is one of those things you have to see to believe.

            For lunch we heard of a local pizza place, and thought we could compare it to Sorbillo’s; however, it was closed. Not to be defeated by our disappointment we decided to go to a couple local markets and pick up food for a picnic on the beach. The beach was nothing special, in fact it was dirty and the sand was black. Not exactly the pristine white beaches seen in the movies. However, at the time it seemed like the most beautiful place. The beach was about 1 mile east of the city and like Venice we saw the whole town with a mountain background. That day was filled with great friends, and an amazing picnic of different cheeses, fruit, and local wine.

            The rest of our time on Naples was spent sight seeing. This city has so much to offer and it was probably the most difficult place to leave. The experiences I had were unforgettable; it only makes me want to visit again!

(7) VENICE, ITALY. WHAT A SUPRISE!

Venice, Italy has been advertised to have romance, amazing food, and the fame of being the city build on water. Don’t get me wrong, I love the excitement any place has to offer, but it’s only an idea until you’ve experienced it. Before entering Venice I told myself not to get too excited. That the city is not nearly has beautiful as the picture on Google show, the Gondola Ride at dusk is only romantic in the movies because, well, it’s a movie and everything in movies is “perfect”, and food is food; therefore, I will only expect to eat mediocre pasta. Going in with these expectations, I was prepared to be pleasantly surprised, or happily pleased with my self that I anticipated nothing special.

Venice day 1: The group of students from UNK met at the hostel and made our way to St. Marks Square. If I could say anything about Venice from that walk, it’s that having a map is the most priceless tool to have. Every side walk ends, and every time I turned I was never sure if I had been there before. After being in the city for a couple days, I managed to navigate one or two routes, but that was it. At St. Marks Square we visited the cathedral. It was absolutely beautiful, but I couldn’t appreciate it like I wanted or should have. Every detail was on point, and every painting had a spiritual meaning that would drop most peoples’ jaw. In my case, I found it hard to appreciate the architecture and meaning, not because it isn’t amazing, but because we have seen so many cathedrals in the past. Although it was a shame that it felt just like another cathedral, I left knowing I had seen something created by the hands of passionate architects and sculptors. I think I appreciated that more than anything, the passion for creation.

The next part of day one was filled with surprises. The food of choice for the evening was of course pasta. When in Italy, do is the Italians do! At least I thought that was the best idea when ordering my pesto pasta. I will say it surprised me by being above average! The Gondola ride was also a surprise. We cruised through the city “streets” just as the sun was setting. I got some amazing picture, which I believe could be advertised on Google images. All in all, day one was the second most surprising part of Venice.

            Venice day 2: This was the most eventful day in Venice, but I will only elaborate a little. Not because I don’t have anything to say about the city, but because it is difficult to explain what I saw. In the morning a group of us headed to St. Marks Square, which is next to the shoreline. From here we got the most beautiful view of the city. Venice has a curve to it almost like the city is circling a body of water. If you walk far enough down the coastline you can see the skyline of the city. The architecture of Venice looks untouched by modern buildings, and it creates a fairy tail like atmosphere. There are so many words to describe the city, but it would be monotonous to wright.

            Overall, I found Venice to be a surprise. I made it out to be a city overhyped and overrated by tourists who got caught up in the idea of the city. After going I can say that Venice is an ideal place to go for a few days. Like I said the Island is small so there isn’t too much to see. However, I would highly recommend visiting at least once in your lifetime.