Settling In

Over the course of the past month and a half of finding my way around the city, I have been settling into this beautiful place I am happy to call "home" for next five months of my journey that are to follow. I have become comfortable living in my small apartment while enjoying my very close proximity to the Old Town center which is only about a ten minute walk through the gorgeous park that encircles the heart of the city.

While I dearly miss family, friends, along with many of the simple comforts of being on American soil back at home; I have truly begun to enjoy living in Krakow and attending language courses through Jagiellonian University's school of Polish Language and Culture. The pace of life is one aspect of living here that I have come to enjoy the most. I can simply wander through the streets at just about any time of day and be surrounded by people yet never feel as if it is overcrowded. The streetscape and design of the Old Town is nothing short of beautiful in my eyes - the city's history is apparent around every corner as I admire the intricate architecture of buildings old and new.

With more restaurants and ice cream shops than I would care to count, there are always a number of choices for a light snack, to a nice dinner, and just about everything in between. The cost of living also makes a relaxing evening even more enjoyable as costs generally seem to be between 50 - 75 percent of what I would generally expect back at home, on my beloved Eastern Shore.

I have been keeping busy between rigorous language courses coupled with my online and independent study courses through Salisbury University. With the combination of classes that creates a litany of work and ongoing projects, I don't always have the luxury of free time to stop and relish in the moment. Even in the businesses of life, I continue to be struck by the serenity of this most special place - for this, I am most grateful.