Funny, I was walking through the mall (I know I can't stop myself) and out of nowhere realized that there are going to be things while I'm away in Europe that I need to get used to again. You'd think it's the same, but for all of you that have lived abroad, that grew up somewhere else other than the US or are living abroad right now, you know what I am talking about. No matter how close or similar one country is to another it is never the same.
Today, here's my list that I need to remember so I won't get shocked while getting used to another, very familiar culture again:
1) Prices are going to be insane
2) No tax will be added whatsoever, so if it's 5.50, it is 5.50!
3) No refills
4) Water is not free, unless it is clearly stated that it is
5) Tips will be included
6) Public transportation will be very much on time
7) Cars will stop at the crosswalk to let pedestrians pass
8) No right turns on red!
9) No 12-lane plus freeways
10) Smaller cars are going to be all over, including more narrow streets
11) Teenagers will be walking around drunk
12) Dogs will be all over, too
13) Self-seating in restaurants
14) Unable to use my Starbucks card and earn rewards (I know, scandalous!)
15) Less pool and beach time
16) Lots of political, environmental, and educational talk
17) Tourists trampling all around the city
18) Finally, no more brand names and designer drama...as awesome as they are, it's not everything!
19) ... I am sure there is more...I just can't think of it right now.
And once I enter wonderful Istanbul...lots of more changes will come my way...but hey, I won't bore you with that! I'll just stick to being myself...the easy-going and adaptable me. Love being a Gemini.
I am just so looking forward to seeing my friends and family again. At least part of it - since all of my relatives live all over the world. It is always a hassle to coordinate visits and trips to all kinds of places. It sounds all so glamorous and fun, but at some point you just wish your family lived in one spot and you could visit them all at once.
Let me enjoy some of the amenities this wonderful country has to offer before I enter another one.
Where's my refill?!
xoxo
5 comments :
That picture of that baby is epic!
Can't wait ti explore all that Europe has to offer!
Istanbul does have Starbucks...think you can use your card there? Or is that just an American thing? :)
I love hearing these Europe US comparisons. I definitely saw some of them being in the UK. But it's hugely trading up from Cambodia so they were all good things.
Nope, Starbucks cards don't exist in Europe...so yeah...no more free drinks and all. :(
I didn't realize that you have self seating there but I guess it's been a while since I've been to Europe! :P Hope you are getting used to everything girl and are having lots of fun!
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