Week 3

Week 3 was all about lemons and lemonade, both in the classroom and on tour.

First, I found out half way through the week that I had been OVER-reading substantially for my research seminar. (I had not noticed the numbered chapter subtexts on the syllabus) I was simultaneously crushed at my own stupidity and wasted time, and seriously impressed that I had been able to over achieve in such a manner. Needless to say, I was quite prepared for the discussion in class.

We also were returned the results of our entrance exam. Happy to report I scored well and am henceforth off on the right foot academically. Buoyed with confidence, I wrote what I think was a pretty decent criticism of early modern religious tolerance and the progress of historical debate on the subject for my Methodology class. I will find out if its actually any good on Tuesday when we review them in class.

More than anything, this week in the classroom was about consolidating what little rhythm I generated last week. I now feel completely comfortable with the amount of time I need to devote to studying, and, by extension, the amount of time I can spend not studying.

Which, in a nice bit of intentional transitioning, brings us to the second lemon life dealt me in week 3. My original intention had been to travel to Munich for the opening weekend of Oktoberfest, stay with my friend's uncle, and really let loose in the fatherland. However, being the inexperienced, under prepared gringo that I am, I did not realize that the discount Eurail pass I had intended on buying for this and future endeavors requires purchase 2 weeks prior to departure. This plain sucked. Another lesson learned the hard way, I guess.

However, not to be deterred, I did the next best thing.

AMSTERDAM!!! Let me say that this is a truly awesome city. I took the train in Friday night to meet up with a high school friend and a few other Americans (30 minutes) and was immediately struck with the beauty of the place. First off, it's ancient. Just like Leiden, but theres just so much more of everything. Unfortunately I got there around 8, so I wasn't able to take as many pictures as is deserved for such a place, but I will go back for a more thorough investigation.

The streets and neighborhoods around the city center reminded me of the french quarter in New Orleans: tight lanes and alleyways, constant bars and restaurants, sooo many people, tons of light, and a tactile energy encompassing everything. After watching the first act of a top flight street performance in front of city hall, we ate at a small restaurant near Dam Square that only offered 3 appetizers, 3 entrees, and 3 desserts. Naturally they were delicious (if you're only serving 3 things you better know how to make them right?) From there we walked along one of the many canals to a cafe/bar that apparently is more local than tourist. Fought for beers, but enjoyed the atmosphere-- everyone takes their beers out of the bar to the sidewalk and drinks outside.

We next made our way through an area that was definitely more tourist than local, and checked into Rookies, one of many true-to-form Netherlands coffeeshops in the neighborhood. (This place is where the tugboat picture came from) Without going into too much detail, this place was a blast. We met some great, funny people from all over, and spent at least 2 hours talking, laughing, and telling stories.

After Rookies, we grabbed some shoarma (mediteranean beef/pita creation) and headed toward the redlight district to see what all the hype was about. Hilarious, is the best word I can use to describe the cast of characters we mingled amongst on this leg of the journey. Price haggling, drunkeness, asian tourists... it was a priceless scene that you need to experience to appreciate.

The best part about Amsterdam is that trains run all night. I was able to hop on the 2am train back to Leiden, catch a nap on the way, and be in bed by 3. I'm looking forward to many more such nights in the future.

Tourism highlights:

See above.

Overall this week was great in spite of some bonehead plays on my part. But, honestly, I think that's just how this adventure may go...