Tag: study abroad

Let’s Talk About the Fences In Ireland

Published on by LshotkoskiLeave a comment

Ireland has a huge problem, and no I’m not talking about the price of housing, the lack of ranch, or even the “fade” hairstyle. I am talking about the overwhelming amount of fences. In fact, if you start walking any direction in literally any part of Ireland, it quickly becomes a maze because of how many unfinished and unnecessary gates there are. There are two types of fences in Ireland and neither of them serve a purpose or are necessary.

The first type of fence in Ireland (pictured above) are the classic metal rods and spire-topped fences that are absurdly large. These gates seem to be a big deal, however, 9 times out of 10 all these do is create an almost barrier to your destination. I could respect this fence if it actually enclosed the property it was surrounding, but instead these just make it so you have to spend an extra couple minutes walking to where they gave up on building it. They are always blocking the path you want to take, and adding an extra 5 minutes to your eta, and on top of that they are IMPOSSIBLE to climb. If you can make it up the skinny sliding rods and over the sharp spires….. you deserve to be on the other side, you put in the hard work.

The second type of fence is the kind that actually serves a purpose. The kind that actually creates a barrier to the building, farm, or land it surrounds. The only issue with them? They barely make it a foot off the ground. This fence wouldn’t even stop a rabbit, it could just hop over it. The money used to build these fences would be more useful in an insurance fund towards the potential items stolen by people who simply stepped over the fence. These fences have the right idea, just a horrible execution.

It may seem dramatic when I say there is no in between, but I am 100% serious. Before studying abroad in Ireland please take into account how easily annoyed you would get at a minor inconvenience like a fence. Because they can and will affect your everyday life.

Food in French Culture

Published on by taliafrankelLeave a comment

One of the first things that comes to many people’s minds when thinking of French culture (and one of the many reasons I decided to study abroad in this country) is its excellent cuisine. During my first month of studying in Aix en Provence I have tried many new cafés, restaurants, bars, and recipes in my own home! Whether you’re looking for a coffee and pastry to start your day, a perfect charcuterie board, a fancy dinner, or delicious seafood by the coast, the south of France has more than enough to offer.

Cafés and Patisseries

My favorite way to start my weekdays is with a cappuccino and a croissant from one of my favorite cafés or patisseries (pastry shops). There’s no shortage of these adorable stops in Aix, so the hardest part is finding which one you like the most. My typical stop is Chez Augustine, which is just around the corner from my apartment and typically where I get my daily baguette. Another favorite of mine for when I have more time to sit is Maison Riederer, which specializes in hot chocolate and their delicious pain au chocolats.

However, if you’re ever feeling a bit homesick or just looking for a place to study, my recommendation is Café Lumiere. One of the best places in the city to find good wifi and great iced coffee drinks (a rare find in this city). Owned and run by an American woman, the staff is incredibly welcoming and it can be a comforting feeling to walk into an English speaking business from time to time.

Restaurants in France

One of my favorite parts about French culture is the way that people here find time to enjoy each and every meal, whether that be for themselves or accompanied by friends or family. One of my favorite sit-down spots for breakfast, brunch, or lunch is at La Crêpe Sautière. This awesome crêpe spot located right near my school (IAU) serves the most delicious recipes as well as offering a build your own option. You can find a variety of fun pub/lunch spots located around la Rotonde at the edge of the historic part of the city. These spots serve cocktails, charcuterie, tapas, as well as larger plates of food that work well for lunch or dinner with friends. Some finer dining restaurants such as La Rotonde and Le Piston offer classic French dishes such as steak tartar, escargot, oysters, and more.

Market Shopping and Cooking at Home!

As a student abroad I still have to live on a budget, so eating out for every meal isn’t the most sustainable. Fortunately, Aix hosts a massive market every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, which offers a variety of fresh foods at an affordable price. Since I live in an apartment, my roommates and other students in the building have started a “family dinner night” where we all contribute to the meal and cook together. Just last week we got mussels from the market and made mussel pasta with baguette and a beet salad with goat cheese. Gathering ingredients from the local market and cooking with and for your friends is such a fulfilling experience that has helped me create so many deep bonds in my program.

The culture around food in France is much different than most people experience it in the United States. Here, meals are meant to be a time to relax and connect with people you love, such as friends or family. Meal times are much less flexible, and fast food is not nearly as common. Instead, when you go out around 12-1pm you’ll see every restaurants full, all French students are on breaks with their friends, and families are eating together. In addition to offering a wide array of delicious cultural foods, France has given me a new appreciation for how food is used to create and build connections and establish a more fulfilling way of life (even though I’m perfectly happy keeping my cheese and baguettes all to myself).