On to Achern

Group Picture in Schmölln



Grill Party in Uetze



Frankfurt am Main

Frankfurt am Main Group Picture



 Our first stop in Germany was Schmölln, a small town that was a big change from Vienna. I went on to visit my sister in Franfurt (Oder), while the group visited Erfurt and Gera. Our stays in Schmölln and Berlin were short, and yet we still made friends that we are all keeping in touch with as we continue our tour.

Although Berlin was rainy, we all agreed that our hosts were so hospitable and friendly that our experience still left us sad to leave. In Berlin we were able to visit Sachsen-Hausen and Checkpoint Charlie. We also visited the Museumsinsel (Island of the Museums) and the Reichstag (where the government is housed).

Our next stop was Uetze, which was also a culture shock after coming from Berlin. A small town near Hannover, Uetze was exactly what we needed after the busy city life of Berlin. Our hosts had invited most of us to attend their Abi-ball, which is a lot like our Prom in America. However, many of our students commented on how much more fun the Abi-ball was. After dancing the night away, some until 4 or 5 in the morning, we had a day to sleep in and then Monday we all went to school.

On the way to Achern, we stopped in Frankfurt (Main) to take a tour of the city. Herr Koerner's son Manu gave us a tour of the area around the center of Franfurt, and the Main tower. We were able to watch the live weather update while standing on the tower.

Finally after somewhat stressful, yet still enjoyable travel, we all find ourselves in Achern. Everyone is so relieved to be able to stay for a longer time with people we have already become friends with through the exchange. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves, and our families all have plans to keep us busy this weekend.

Ellen Koerner