Liverpool, Trip 1

Last evening, Edge Hill University sponsered a night out in Liverpool for all of the students here. They provided transportation and rented out three clubs for us to take over. The club scene is very different here than in the states. The English seem more reserved than the Americans, thus taking more time to wait until most of the people are busting moves on the dance floor. We were downtown for about four hours in Liverpool by the dock and the city just glistened at night. It was really beautiful. On Friday, the international students will be able to travel for the day to visit the city and see the sights away from all of the nightlife.

In the States, it is common to hear, "Hi! How are you?" But here, the common way to great someone is, "Are you alright?" At first, I thought I looked ill or sad to the person asking; but, I've learned that this is just the way to great someone here. And to hear someone say "cheers" in place of "thank you" is different as well. I just respond with "cheers" or "you're welcome." It's working so far, but I'm sure once someone laughs in response, I will learn exactly what to say.

We are still having great weather here. Today was extremely pleasant and sunny and the English have been saying that it's the best weather they've had in weeks. The campus is over populated with ducks and rabbits and they just brighten up the scenery even more.

The latest news for American students is how we are all planning future trips to other countries, since we're so close. Hot spots for me to visit, most likely, are Scotland, Ireland, France, and Estonia. The train system is used so frequently over here and it is a great alternative to taking taxis or even trains. Having travel buddies will make the trips safer and more fun, of course, and so many of us want to go to new places that it's not hard at all to find someone to take with you. The best part of traveling from one city to the next is hearing all of the different accents--even within the same small country. It seems as though each town carries with it a new culture and point of view, which is nice and adds to the diversity I see day-to-day. I love meeting new people and during this Freshers week, it seems as though everyone is open and inviting to talking to each other about their stories and from where they come.

Peace.