3: Challenging Experiences (Caroline Readinger)

Howdy Again!

I would say coming in I had thought that Europeans were going to be too busy to take time out of their day to help an American who couldn't even speak their language. However, since I have gotten here, there have been multitudes of instances where locals or other European visitors have been willing to help me. For instance in Mallorca, we were driving stick and adequate drivers, but had very little experience driving up a mountain and were somewhat unaware of the fact that you need to shift very quickly to a low gear to make that climb. We got stalled out on a one lane road on a mountain, but were fortunate to have a turn off. When we made it over there, we kindly went up to a man in a car also on the turn off and asked for advice to which he kindly helped us out. He coached us through uphill automatic driving and left us on our way with a smile. Similarly, when we went cliff jumping, there were about six European dads lifeguarding for us three American girls. They gave thumbs ups to each other when we resurfaced and simply were super kind showing us the right place to go and tricks for getting out on the rocky shore. Again these Europeans (from all over) did so with a smile. Lastly, with public transportation, every time I have ever been confused and gone up to someone, they have been super helpful and so willing to speak English with me. 

I have been so grateful for the hospitality that I have been shown here where I figured I would be more alone.  

Thanks and Gig 'em.