Exactly a week ago, I returned home (enough) to England after 5 and a half weeks of traveling continental Europe. As if having two classes a term wasn't enough of a treat, my study abroad university indulged us with a 6-week spring break! My friend and I traveled extensively through Spain, France, The Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Austria and the Czech Republic.

Because it will be considerably difficult (somewhat impossible) to recount all of the stories from the trip in a blog entry, I'll go through a list of the trip's "best" moments/experiences/food, etc.

To start with, Berlin was the trip's biggest surprise. The street food was phenomenal (sausages, steaks, crepes), the historic sites were incredible and the Germans...they're beyond words. Unlike the stereotype that I've developed, Germans are actually very warm, accomodating people. You won't see a hint of their dark history in their welcoming smiles and friendly disposition. In truth, I was a bit reluctant to visit Berlin, but now I recommend it to everyone I talk to!

In terms of must-see cities, Rome and Paris are tied at the top. The Colosseum, The Pantheon, Roman Forum, church after church for Rome and the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees...the list just goes on for each of these cities. What I found wonderful too was that although the subway lines were convenient in either city, it was just a pleasant walk from one tourist sight to another. The downside to these cities however, is the hoards of tourists that you encounter. Most of the time, these said encounters are pleasant and even mutually beneficial when you make friends while waiting in line for attractions, but sometimes, competition gets stiff and it's every man or woman for himself. :( As well, because these are highly touristy cities, restaurants are extremely expensive. Some don't even serve authentic local cuisine anymore and simply become tourist traps for the unknowing traveller.

Despite these potential setbacks however, my most memorable experience took place in Rome, or more accurately, the Vatican City. Easter and masses in general will never be the same again after being granted audience with Pope Benedict XVI for Easter mass. It was a grueling 2 hour wait outside the gates of the Vatican, and another 2 waiting for mass to begin but it was definitely worth all that and more. Though St.Peter's Square was absolutely packed, the celebration was still very solemn. If I had to do the entire trip over again, I would sacrifice any of our other experiences to celebrate mass with the Pope again.

Looking back at the experience, my trip was not simply a treat for the senses. It's one of those experiences, where you look back, and reflect on a greater picture. Personally, I was absolutely relieved to return to my dorm where I was ensured a bed every night (we hopped hostels, which can get really exhausting), a decent bathroom and meals at appropriate hours. Beyond that, I further realized that people are just people everywhere. Although we have stereotypes of Italians or Austrians, they too, in fact, are mere human beings, who also have to go to school or to work for the same universal reason of improving their wellbeings. As a foreigner in these countries, I realized how valuable it was to learn simple key words such as 'please' and 'thank you' in the local languages and how a simple smile really can open doors.