I spent my first couple of weeks in-country settling into my new job and all of the administrative tasks that go along with a move to a new country. However, I still made time to explore a little once I got a vehicle. It’s hard to describe how quaint the area is here in Germany. So I’ll try with a few photos of my first few weeks her.

First, I live in a log building that has a restaurant below and two guesthouses above. It’s called a Blockhaus – a log house. While only a few miles from my classes, it feels as though I’m out in the countryside surrounded by fields filled with horses, cows, and produce.

The single lane road to my house

One of the first sites I visited was a local castle and, yes, I have to distinguish local because I think there is a castle in every little village. Castle Nanstein was built in the 13th century and walking through its ruins felt like walking through history.

One of my favorite shots of the day was this simple photo of a stair towards the top of the tower. I stood starring at this step imagining the number of people who wore its tread so well.

Here are a few more shots from the castle:

 

Each little town has a distinct feel that centers around its particular chapel and market square, usually complete with cobblestone pedestrian paths.

Most days I feel as though there is too much to take in during one day, or a full weekend. So I’ve learned that sometimes its best to simply soak in as much as I can and save the rest for another day.

Next stop, Trier, one of the oldest cities in Germany. See you then!