Sharp in Greece

Ya sas world! My dearest apologies for not updating this “stalk the life of John Sharp” blog recently.  Have some pity for me though because I’ve been busy knocking out research papers and earning my respect in the world of Greek language, with an A on my first Greek quiz. My next quiz is tomorrow. You can wish me luck but I’m not going to need it. Other than keeping myself busy with schoolwork, I had the chance to do some traveling since the last post. The weekend of November 4^th all the roommates and I indulged ourselves in the Barcelona experience. My 4 favorite aspects about Barcelona, Spain: beaches, Olympic Par, Guadi architecture, and the Dow Jones Bar. Of course there are plenty of more favorites I discovered in the city I’ll call home in the future and you should just ask if you’d like to know!

4 dislikes about Barcelona: metro prices, club bouncers, illegal immigrants on the beach at night and sharing a shower with 8 other people. I enjoyed my first “true” hostel experience in Barcelona. I’m talking about dormitory style rooms with 9 beds, one bathroom and shower, no towels, sandy floors and quiet hours. However, don’t think I’m complaining! The hostel was on the beach and offered a complimentary breakfast as well as Wi-Fi! In my book a hostel is a safe place for me to keep my things. Sleep isn’t necessary nor is it recommended on trips like these! The pope made an appearance during our stay in Barcelona to lead the very first mass at the cathedral. Unfortunately, I didn’t make it to see him on Sunday because our flight left too early. All in all, the Barcelona experience treated me very good!

Classes for today got canceled! Currently, I’m in Starbucks (dislike) working on a paper because today is basically a national holiday for Greece. November 17 is the anniversary date of the1973 protests against the then-ruling junta aka group of military officers. In the past, some demonstrations were violent and included the destruction of property. So I guess we are advised to stay away from these demonstrations and seek shelter. HAHA! Okay, in all seriousness a girl from our group just walked into Starbucks saying that the police will not allow her to go home because they just dropped tear gas on the street in front of her apartment. Another friend experienced the tear gas first-hand a few moments ago and supposedly it hurts. I should probably head home or go walk the streets; hmmm I like the later of the two.

I’m leaving for Amsterdam on Friday! Wish me luck I’m going to need it. HA!

Alright, a herd of police motorcycles just passed, I have to get out of this Starbucks and go play Curious George!

ps: Thanksgiving is next week!