One of the nice things about traveling to new places, other than seeing new things, is the opportunity to get a different perspective. Everyone does things just a little bit differently. Seeing how others approach even the most basic things, can give you some insights on new ways to approach work, leisure, problems, life, etc. Getting out of your comfort zone expands the mind and stimulates thoughts and ideas. Spending two weeks in Germany has certainly given me a taste of how life can be approached from a slightly different angle.
As soon as I landed at the airport, I was faced with doors that open differently (I’m always pushing when I should be pulling, or vice versa), toilets that flush differently, and water faucets that turn on differently – oh! And people that speak another language. All this after only having an hour or so of sleep and landing at what was 2 am, my time. Luckily, most Germans speak a least a bit of English, they have very well marked public spaces with signs that are fairly easy to understand, and they’re pretty helpful and friendly.
Since I was studying at the WHU, they provided transportation from the airport, so I wasn’t faced with figuring out the rail system yet (that was later). But arriving on a Sunday meant walking to a gas station to find a bit of food (stores are closed on Sunday). And any time something needs to be plugged in meant finding an adapter and figuring out if the device could handle being plugged in directly (my iphone and ipod need to go through my computer for charging, for example).
Living out of what you can carry in a suitcase for 3 weeks has it’s own set of challenges. Luckily the apartment I was staying in at the WHU had a washer (albeit the smallest one you’ve ever seen), but drying required at least a day of time on the rack in the kitchen (plan ahead!). Groceries are good & fresh, but in much smaller packages (which is good because you’ll be carrying them home) and you have to bring your own bag(s). Cooking & preparing meals means buying things for the next day or two and keeping the menu either German or simple (like spaghetti with sauce).
Just about every thing is just a little bit different. Which means a lot of thinking things through and planning ahead. It’s been a great experience and Germany is beautiful! I have enjoyed seeing many new sites and lots of castles, meeting new people, experiencing a new culture and eating delicious food & beer. I’m also grateful for the opportunity to see things from a different perspective. I encourage everyone to try to do the same, if you can. Even if it just means getting out of bed on a different side or traveling to a new part of your city or state or country.
Have you had a chance to experience things from a different perspective? What’s your experience?
(photo by Sarah Worsham)