Pre-departure Jitters: "The French Butterflies"

Je m'appelle Christina

After a messy flight cancellation and spending an hour on the phone, I finally have a seat for tomorrow's flight at 9 PM. It's been a stressful pre-departure, so I'm hoping the actual trip will go more smoothly. Due to our flight cancellation, my travel buddy and I are no longer flying in together. I will be getting to Paris a day early and heading to the hostel alone. Unnecessary to say, I am so incredibly nervous. I suppose it's a good thing. If you're nervous, it means you care!

Currently, I am reading tips for French taxis and some quick phrases to use. (It doesn't help that I've seen the movie "Taken" and trouble starts brewing as soon as they hail a taxi. Liam Neeson, help!) I've gotten "Parlez-vous anglais down," but haven't thought of what to say if they say "no"...smiles are universal, right? Or a "merci"!

I know we're not supposed to make assumptions or generalizations of what Cluny will be like, but I have this little flicker of hope it'll be something like the lovely town in Beauty and the Beast where Belle frolics in the beginning of the movie! It doesn't hurt to dream. Nonetheless, Cluny is so rich in history and looks so beautiful (from the past blogs I've looked at) that I know I won't be disappointed.

Hopes for this adventure? I'd love immerse myself in French culture and to return more worldly. I'm always excited to increase my appreciation for food too. Especially when that food is wine and cheese! I always tell people my last meal would have to be good bread and some cheese.

Before I end this rather long first post, I'd really like to show my gratitude. Without the SEBS International Study Abroad Office, I would not have this incredible opportunity for such a great experience. So thank you so much to everyone there! Megan, you're like a fairy godmother :) Also, thank you to my wonderful family and friends for all their support. It's a short program, but I will miss all of you so dearly. See you all in Paris!

Au revoir

- Christina