Nov
25
My poor, neglected blog. I can never do enough to satisfy your desires, your needs, your demands.I am currently logging in from a university computer lab in Central London. I am visiting my roommate and best friend from Paris. It seems like no time at all has passed between us and I still love talking with her. My first full day here (Friday) I went to the open day at the Courtauld Institute to discuss the masters in curatorial studies program with their faculty. Next Wednesday is the open day at the Royal College of the Arts, which I also look forward to attending. Yesterday's dismal weather didn't pull me away from the university compound until nearly 3:00, when Cat, her friend Daisy, and I went out for Thai and carrot cake.
I don't like London nearly as much as I did the first time. Especially compared to Berlin, it seems very... superficial. It is incredibly expensive, crowded, and stylish. It doesn't feel European (I can't find a decent cafe or bakery). It is a city of lights and waste, a city of excess, yet the pubs close at 11 pm and the clubs often charge 10£ for cover. It really isn't the environment for me unless I want to shop all day and spend, spend, spend. Which I don't.
So, back to Berlin. I really do love the city and hope to stay. I'm presently looking for a job and a flat... even just for December. I have met quite a few incredible people already. The galleries are friendly and very helpful. Each one took my CV and recommended other places to try. However, everyone agrees it will be very tough to live and work in the city without knowing German for practical reasons.
I spent three or four days working at the re:place conference for art, media, and science histories. I spent another full day walking around the Mitte gallery district and another day seeking out the newer galleries, which are scattered around the city. I haven't spent any more time in Kreuzberg. I did go out one night to windowshop at Kastanianalle, where I found a pair of boots. I fear the cow-girls aren't going to make it much longer, even though I just had the soles replaced.
One night I went to a CS-er's flat. We all helped with dinner (beer-battered zuccini, potatoes, and more). Another night and another CS-er introduced me to Scotch and Sofa, my all-time favorite bar for reasons that should be quite obvious.
I'm really pumped about the whole situation. Most of my anxiety has fallen away since I've developed alternative plans. I actually have quite a few goals, all perfectly reasonable, some short-term and others looking years ahead. I am ready to fend for myself, but with the nurturing Berliner environment, I don't think I will be alone.
Thanks for stopping by my blog. Berlin is a kick arse place to live, so I hope it works out for you finding a place!
Applications are nearly over, so soon I'll be back in the charmed blogging life. But not nearly as exciting as Berlin. After a semester there, I too have great disdain for London and it's absurdly priced, 11 o'clock closing pubs.
I'm actually just beginning German lessons and hoping to make it out there this summer. I'll keep reading for tips on cool spots. Enjoy.