15 Things I learned This semester

1. How to blog
2. How to create a website
3. How to use Amazon Associates
4. How to use Google Ad sense on my website
5. How to create Cafe press products
6. How to use and create a click bank account
7. How to use and create a Paypal account
8. How to create Ezine articles
9. How to use Google Analytics and create an account
10. I learned how to create an executive summary for my e-business plan
11. I learned how to submit my website to submit express
12. I learned how to submit my website to yahoo.com
13. I learned how to submit my website to google.com
13. I learned how to create a marketplace analysis for my E-business plan
14. I learned how all about computer cookies, and the different kinds of viruses that can effect my computer.
15. I learned all about search engines (Google) and how they operate and rank websites.

Amsterdam

An unforgettable day in Amsterdam -  COMING SOON!

Toulouse, France

Toulouse, in Southern France. - COMING SOON!

Nantes, France

Nantes, France - COMING SOON!

Paris

An unforgettable trip to Paris, France   -  COMING SOON!!!

Biarritz, France

South France -  Rated # 1 most beautiful beach in Europe  - COMING SOON!

Nerac, France

Nerac, France.  Wine Country  - COMING SOON!

I highly recommend studying abroad in Europe

I have changed tremendously as a result of my experience living and traveling abroad. My confidence when it comes to traveling within another country, a major US city, or just traveling in general has sky rocketed now, because I have done it all in Europe. I have now used public busses, taxis, metros, underground tubes, many airports, and high speed trains to get around. Never before have I used so much public transportation and I did not think it would be as easy as it was. Reading maps and following directions is a breeze to me now, after I pretty much read one everyday abroad.  My time management skills have become very efficient as a result of traveling abroad. I really enjoyed our busy schedule, but in the first week or so, it was a little over whelming. Once I became used to the routine, I began fitting in more things I did not think I had time for throughout the days. While in Europe, I have never been so busy from sun rise to sun set in my life. I am the kind of person that has to keep moving and stay busy so I loved it once I got used to it. I have changed in that aspect because, now, I have been doing and fitting more things in my day, then before the trip. I never thought I could do that. All in all, I highly recommend studying abroad during college. It opens you mind up and you will have memories you will remember for a life time. 

Certified Jameson Whiskey Tester

When it comes to the great memories I had in Europe, my list is endless. One of my best memories occurred when I visited the Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery in Dublin, Ireland. While there, we went on a tour of the entire Distillery. There were about 50 to 60 people per group for the tour. During the beginning of our tour, I was one of the lucky eleven to be chosen to be a certified Jameson Whiskey tester at the end of the tour. The tour guide choice the testers. My friend got chosen as well. We got to sit at this table in front of everyone else and test Scottish Whiskey, American Whiskey (Jack Daniel’s), and the famous Jameson Irish Whiskey. There was a place mat with a class of water. The Jack Daniel’s was singled distilled, the Scottish Whiskey was double distilled, and the Jameson Irish Whiskey was tripled distilled. We tasted each one over three times, while taking a drink of water in between to rise out or mouth. We gave our opinions after sampling the three whiskeys and without a doubt we all seven of us choose Jameson as the best one; because of its smooth triple distilled taste. 

The truth is, I really did think the Jameson Whiskey tasted the finest. This is one of my happiest memories because I will never forget getting chosen and going up there. I framed the certificate I was given and every time I look at it on my wall I think of that unforgettable awesome day. 

One of my best memories

I had a handful of best unforgettable memories while I was in Europe.  One of my best memories would be my host family. When they first picked me up in a camper from the park, I knew they would be cool and nice. It was my host mom, dad and they two girls, aged 17 and 19.  I had a very warm welcome from all of them. They lived in a very nice house in the hills of Bristol, England. I really liked the dinners they prepared for us. I have never tried so many different kinds of food in my life. We had everything from English burgers to Mediterranean sea food. I looked forward to dinner at 19:00 every night because I would always learn so much during our conversations. After dinner we also always talked in the living room while we watched the news or football. We talked about everything from the differences in politics to our cultural differences. They were really nice when they let me borrow a prepaid local phone, in which I used for two weeks. Also, just so my roommate and I can have our own rooms, my host parents slept outside a camper parked on their driveway. They gave both my roommate and I out own keys so we can let ourselves in at night. I am definitely going to go visit them sometime in the future and they are always welcome to stay at my home, when they travel to the United States. 

Life in England

Life in England, especially Bristol, is very different from here in the States. The first thing I noticed when I arrived in England was how small the cars were. I saw one Suburban the entire three weeks in Bristol. I could not stop talking about how everyone was so relaxed in Bristol compared to back here. Many people walk everywhere in Bristol as opposed to having to drive everywhere where I live. I thought it was interesting how they have a law against beeping your car horn in Bristol. When it comes to the roads in Bristol, it is way different. The roads were so skinny, the people have to park their little cars half way onto the side walk. I have never seen people park their cars like that here in the U.S. I noticed how there were barley any car garages throughout Bristol due to the space. Being in the car while they drive on the other side of the road took a few days to get used to. The houses all look pretty much exactly the same compared to houses here as well.  All of Bristol was hilly compared to the plains back here in Illinois. I did not see one corn field when I was in England, and that is way different because I drive past corn fields the entire way down to ISU. In London and Dublin I noticed that there was a lot of security walking around with huge guns. It is different because I have never seen security like that in the US.

I also noticed how life was different when it comes to drinking alcohol in England, but especially Bristol. They are a lot more relaxed when it comes to their view on drinking beer in general. Their lifestyle of drinking would be considered border line alcoholism here in the U.S. I noticed that the younger people start drinking at pubs a lot earlier than here at ISU. Their view towards lager and cider in Bristol is, as if it is good for you. I also noticed how in Bristol/England here are no average restaurants; like a Chili’s here. Life is different because it seemed as if they people only go out to expensive or really inexpensive restaurants, if they go out at all. Public transportation in Bristol and England is different as well, there are a lot of double decker busses and high speed trains.    

3 Countries & 5 Train Stations in 24 hours

I was especially proud of myself on the day I met my family. It all started when two friends and I decided to take quick trip to Amsterdam from Brussels, Belgium. We booked a hotel the day, packed up our stuff, and said good buy to everyone and caught a taxi to the Brussels-Central Train Station. When we arrived, we booked the first train to Amsterdam.

Upon arriving, we walked to our hotel (which was only about a half mile).  In the morning after only getting a few hours sleep, I walked back to Amsterdam Central Station and booked a train ticket to Nantes, France for that afternoon. Nantes is a small town located in West France.  I hopped on the train and arrived in Paris where I had to change train stations.  Alone, I had to take a taxi from one train station(Paris Nord), to the other one (Paris Montparnasse). Due to my train arriving in Paris 25 minutes late and sitting in grid locked Paris; I ended up missing my train to Nantes. When I arrived at the other train station, I looked at that huge board, with all the departures, and ran as fast as I can with three bags to catch another one leaving to Nantes. I spoke a little French and the conductor let me on because he saw how I missed my train. Minutes later, the train left. When I finally arrived in the small city of Nantes, nothing was written in English underneath the signs, like the Paris train stations. I followed the pictures on the signs, read a little French, and got out of there. It was by chance that my family’s hotel was very close to the train station. When I finally met up with my family and my cousins I was shaking because, within 24 hours, I was in five train stations (Brussels-Central, Amsterdam  Central Station, Paris Nord, Paris Montparnasse, Nantes)and three countries (Belgium, Netherlands, France).

 I now look back on that day and give myself a pat on the back because I never thought that I could do what I did, let alone, before. Now when I go to Chicago or any major city, I am not going to think twice about my ability to get around. 

Sneeze Page: My Archive of Favorite Blogs

I have written many blogs on Europebehindthescenes, Here is a list of my favorite ones.

Inside the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin In this blog I give a behind the scenes view of inside the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland. I thought this place was really cool because there is not many places like this on earth. The Guinness Storehouse is a place I highly recommend you visit while you are in Dublin.
 
The Tower of London and Tower Bridge Tower Bridge was and the Tower of London were really cool places to see. While in London, I highly recommend you go visit them. There is so much history it’s amazing.
 
Dublin: The Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery  In this blog I give a behind the scenes view of inside the Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery in Dublin, Ireland. While visiting the Distillery, I was very lucky to be chosen to be a certified Irish Whiskey Jameson Tester. The Jameson Distillery, along with the Storehouse, are places I highly recommend you visit while you are in Dublin.

London: The Palace of Westminster, Behind the Scenes  The Palace of Westminster is a very remarkable place to visit. As a part of the program I was in, we were given the unique opportunity to go inside for a tour I will never forget.
 
Inside my 1st day in London, England While in Europe, you have to see the awesome city of London. There are so many sites to see in this city that you have to plan ahead. I highly recommend you see and visit London!

Irish Countryside This blog is about my trip to the Irish Countryside, south of Dublin. It is beautiful I highly recommend you read this blog and go on a tour to the Countryside while in Dublin.

Behind the Scenes: European Parliament

While in Brussels, I recommend you walk around and see the buildings of the European Union’s Parliament. During my trip to Europe, I was given a unique opportunity to go inside and tour the main Europen Parliament building. It was really interesting to learn all about it and see it first hand. I  learned that there are 23 different languages within the 27 member states. I also learned that the maximum amount of seats a state can have is 99 and Germany is the only one that has that many now. I thought it was really interesting how 40% of the European Parliament’s staff is translators. I learned how the European Parliament works. Work and life there are reflected in a calendar divided up into different colored weeks. The different colored weeks are pink, red, blue, and turquoise; each corresponding to a different type of parliamentary activity. I also learned that the European Parliament has 20 standing committees. Each committee specializes in a particular field, such as transportation and the environment.

That night after the European Parliament, me and a few frinds tried to go to a nicer restaurant that wasn't that expensive. We finally choose one and we all ordered lasagna. One lady worked there and after we ordered she went to the back area and opened up packages. After that we saw her put four plates into four microwaves. We were mad that we were going to pay eight euros for micro waved lasagna but we were also laughing at the same time. That night we went to the pub which has the most beers in tap in the world. 

Inside the European Commission Headquarters in Brussles, Belgium

While in Belgium, I recommend you visit the city of Brussels. We took our private coach to the European Union capital city of Brussles, Belgium. First, we were given the opportunity to visit the one of the 81 buildings of the European Commission. We saw behind the scenes of the European Commission, what it is made up of, and what it does for the European Union. During our presentation we learned many things about the European Commission. It was established in 1958 as a executive role for the European Union. We learned the president of the European Commission is Jose Barroso.

Headed by the President (one of the commissioners), The commission is in charge of 26 commissioners that act as a cabinet government.  We learned that the Commission is responsible for the implementation of legislation once it is passed by the European Parliament and the European Council. It was interesting to learn that the European Commission operates in 3 main languages (Englsh, French, German) We also learned that it can take around 10 years for a state to apply and be accepted into the European Union. I also learned about the Eurozone; and that only 16 out of 27 states adopted the Euro. It is interesting now looking at a Euro bill; all of the normal representations are taken away. For example, there is no President. There is only the European Union flag and a bridge. It is all because they were creating a currency without a state for the first time in history.  I recommend visiting Brussels and walking around the city to view all 81 of the European Commission buildings. 

Belgium: Inside a WWII Prison Camp called Fort Breendock

On the way to Brussels we stopped at one of the best conserved camps in Europe called Fort Breendock. Fort Breendock is located around the city of Antwerp, Belgium.  Fort Breendock dates way back to WWI when it was built by the Belgium army for defense purposes. They built a huge moat around the entire camp and they built up tones of soil for defense against bombings.  During the years, Fort Breendock was used first as a fort and then a prison.

However, Fort Breendock was also used as a prison camp by the Germans during World War II.   

During out tour of the camp, we saw the yard where the prisoners had to pass their days in forced hard labor. The Nazis turned the fort into a prison. During our tour of the camp, we learned that the hard labor consisted of removing thick layer of top soil that covered the fort. We saw the shower rooms, the hard wooden beds, and the toilets. During our tour there was audio and visual guides that helped us be immersed in the life of the detainees; which were controlled by the SS.  During our tour we learned that the prisoners were only served a very small amount of food each day. In 1947, the nation of Belgium declared Fort Breendock a national memorial.

All in all, If you are looking for a good history lesson about WWII go visit Fort Breendock near Antwerp, Belgium. However, I think that it is not a place to bring small children. 

Brugge, Belgium

When traveling to Belgium, I highly recommend you visit the city of Brugge. As a part of our study abroad program, we were given the opportunity to visit the old city of Brugge. While in Ghent, we woke up early and took a coach bus to Brugge. (It is a really nice way to get from one city to another while in Europe, but I recommend the high speed trains.)  This city was awesome. I learned that Brugge has over 176 chocolate shops. 

I bought some hand made chocolates and they were the best I have ever tasted. I highly recommend buying as much chocolates as possible because they are so delicious. Brugge is a small city that has very old medieval looking buildings and towers. Like Amsterdam, it has lots of water ways. In fact, I learned that there are 196 bridges in Brugge! While in the city I recommend you climb to the top of the tower for amazing views!  We did exactly that, our professor took a small group of us to the Brugge tower. We climbed up all 300+ stairs to get to the top. Seeing the city of Brugge from the tower was spectacular. While in Brugge, do not hesitate to eat as many waffles as you can! Because they are awesome!! 

I had the best Belgium waffles. First, I had one with wip cream and chocolate; it tasted so incredible. Then, later that day I had another Belgium waffle with this cookie spread that looked like peanut butter.  After that we took a boat tour to see the whole city. I recommend you do that when going to the city.

All in all, while in Belgium go visit the city of Brugge. Get some chocolates and waffles, climb the tower, go shopping, and take the boat tour.

Ghent, Belgium

Ghent, Belgium is a very interesting city located not to far from the capital city of Brussels. We were given the opportunity to visit Ghent, Belgium for two in a half days. The second day we woke up and went to went to the local McDonalds for breakfast. We went to McDonalds because we thought the hostel breakfast was no good at all. McDonalds in Ghent had a very interesting menu that had some similiraties and differences to the United States menu. 

I ordered a New York City burger.  It was interesting how there was a little pieces of ham on top of my New York City sandwich’s bread. It was also interesting how they served Jupiter beer in McDonalds. I do not think they serve beer at all in any McDonalds in the United States. I remember like how they charged 30 cents to use the toilet in McDonalds. That was interesting because I have never seen a restaurant charge to use the toilet. 

We also thought it was a little funny and something else how they charge for ketchup and bbq sauce at McDonalds. Those little things are what makes traveling so interesting.
In the afternoon we went on a boat tour on Ghent. It was really nice to see the city from the river. If you go to Ghent, Belgium, I highly recommend you go on a boat to see the entire city from the river. During the boat tour I thought it was cool to learn about the history of the medieval city. It was interesting to listen to the boat driver in three languages. The Medieval towers and buildings throughout Ghent reminded me of the video game Assassins Creed and during the boat ride I learned that there are over 250 different kinds of beers in Belgium!

Trip to Belgium & Behind the scenes of Ghent, Belgium, Day 1

While abroad, time is going to fly by. The last morning of Bristol, England I woke up and said goodbye to my host family. I tell ya what, I am definitely planning on going to go visit them in the future.

After our goodbyes, we took a train to France from England. I thought it was really cool how the coach went right into the train. I never new that trains that large were being used. The train was so awsesom because it went underwater across the English Channel! The tunnel is called the Chunnel Tunnel.

After traveling through the awesome Chunnel, In the afternoon, we arrived in Ghent, Belgium. Ghent was a very nice little city in Belgium. I thought it was a Medieval looking city with cobble stone streets and old clock towers. We watched the first World Cup Game of England vs the USA on a huge big screen. It was really neat how the game was in Dutch. 

When the US scored our group was the only ones yelling out of at least a couple thousand. The big screen was in a square with a few restaurants. I had beef for dinner and Belgium fries. (I highly recommend you eat plenty of Belgium fries while in Belgium, also  waffles and chocolate!) I also had this really good beer called Hoegaarden with dinner. 

After dinner we all went to a local pub and had drinks. The city of Ghent is really beautiful at night. It was cool that everyone was staying close together because we all hung out more.

While in Belgium, I highly recommend you go and see the city of Ghent!

A Brief Explanation of the European Union & a local Bristol, England Business

While studying abroad, I recommend you wake up as early as you can because I did the opposite and found myself always eating breakfast on the way to the bus stop. One day, during my second week in England I kept pressing snooze, resulting in me having to run out the door and eat on the bus.

During classes at the University of the West of England we had different professors come in and teach us different subjects. I am going to give a brief explaination for one of my days in class when we learnd about the European Union.

In the morning secession, we learned about Integration in Europe. It was interesting to learn about the differences in the UK and the rest of the EU. The first difference is the England does not really show the European Union flag while Ireland, Belgium, and the other countries do display it next to their own. There are 27 member states that make up the European Union and that it all started with six. Some states (Switzerland, Ireland, and Norway) are not part of the EU because of reasons like human rights, fishing legislation, and lack of public support. The basic of starting  point to the European Union was based on trade and manufacturing goods. 
After the morning secession, we went to Bristol Blue Glass. Bristol Blue glass was an interesting business to learn about. We learned that they use a hot oven called a glory hole. It was really cool to see hot glass  stretch all the way around the block and more. 
While abroad, I recommend you take as many pictures as you can. So that evening me and my roommate took pictures with our host family. I also recommend you talk some pictures of where you lived so you can share the memories with friends and family. I took some pictures of my host family’s home so I can show my family.

A Brief Explanation of British Politics

While studying at the University of the West of England  UWE Web site!  We learned a lot about British politics and culture. In fact each of us earned three credit hours in British culture and society and International Business, with a focus on the European Union and the United Kingdom.

One morning in class, we talked and learned about  "A Crisis in British politics." We had a professor that was an expert in the area of British politics and it was really interesting to learn from her. The four major people we learned about were Margret Thatcher, John Major, Tony Blair, and Gordon Brown. Thatcher was recognized as an innovator. John Major listened to the general public and was recognized as a stabilizer. We also learned about how Tony Blair was labeled President Blair and that he expanded the PM’s (Prime Minister’s) office. However, Gordon Brown was the wrong person for the job and there were a lot of disasters during his leadership.

It was interesting to learn about how David Cameron is the new British Prime Minister as well.  Civic culture is a key future in British Democracy. Most of the citizens respect authority and are not radical. We also learned about the separation of powers and recent reforms within England and the UK.

There are three branches of government; the House of Commons, House of Lords, and the Monarch (The Queen) There are many different parties within Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and Britain. It was interesting to learn how the British Prime Minister does not a formal job description definition within the constitution. I was not aware that the Prime Minister is not popularly elected. There are also many sources and limitations of the Prime Ministerial power. But most of all, the Prime Minister is mostly a political face, for TV.  Learn more about British Politics

TOP TEN reasons why this is a valuable experience.

¨ Traveling around Europe with friends (Trust me, It is awesome traveling with friend your age because you all have the same interest and go out at night!)

¨ Learning a lot about yourself (You learn what you like and dislike when it comes to food)

¨ Higher confidence (I guarantee you will have higher confidence when it comes to traveling and getting around when you return home)

¨ Learning time management skills (Studying abroad has really helped me with my time management skills because I was we were so busy the first week it didn’t seem like we had any free time, but you will if you manage your time right)

¨ Meeting friends you will have for years to come

¨ Experience England’s culture and customs first hand while living with host family (While living with a host family you will experience English cooking at it best and learn many things talking with your host parents)

¨ Learning a lot of valuable information about Europe in a short amount of time (You are really really busy everyday but it is a good thing because why not be busy, your only in Europe for a short amount of time!!)

¨ Great Beer (I swear it does not give you hangovers)

¨ Opportunity to choose second weekend travel and to travel afterwards (I choice Dublin, others choice Paris and Amsterdam) I have been to all three cities and I highly recommend you go visit them as well when abroad!)

¨ Opportunity to go behind the scenes and see inside the Palace of Westminster , European commission, European Parliament. (Once in a lifetime experience!) 

Review Post: Rick Steves’ London 2011 Review

I liked this travel guide the minute I opened it up because it shows maps of the huge city of London and a map of the London Underground or Tube. While in the awesome city of London, traveling on the London Tube is the way to go if you want to see a lot of the city in not a lot of time. I think Rick Steves’ does a very good job explaining how to plan to go to such a great city. The section on money is exact on when it comes to what you should know before you go. Rick’s section on the traveling throughout London is really enjoyed reading because I completely agree with him. The London Tube is the best way to go because it is the fastest. However, some of the pages are a little crowded with words and little drawings. When it comes to his section on sites to see in London, it could have not been written better. I have been to many of the cites he has mentioned and I recommend this book because it would have been a little more interesting if I would have known a little more about them (Westminster Abby, The Palace of Westminster, etc. I like how Rick Steves’ gives updated tour prices. I enjoyed reading his section on the Buckingham Palace Area because he has a little map of the roads and walkways. The little drawing of the map is a little hard to read but once you look at it for a little while it is not bad. If there was more color it would be more interesting to look at. 

Throughout this travel guide, there are many little drawings of what Rick is talking about in that particular section. Some of the drawings are a little complicated and overcrowded with words and stuff. I think some of the little drawings are too small as well and are a little hard to read on the eyes. I liked the organization of this book but at the same time I got a little bored following it and I saw myself more interested reading a book with more color. At the same time, I like how rick Steves’ gives his own personal thoughts and tips on all of the places to go and travel to in London. I agree with most of what he says about the famous places in London. Overall, I liked reading the about the first half of this book and that just about all. All in all, I recommend this travel guide for the very detailed content and words in it and I recommend you look at the DK Eyewitness Travel London book for more detailed and better looking pictures and maps. 

Recommend Product: DK Eyewitness Travel, Dublin

I recommend this book for many reasons. Dublin is a very unique city with many historic sites. I liked how this travel book organized the sites throughout Dublin into categories. First, I liked how the author introduces and gives a history of Dublin, Ireland. It is always nice to know a little history on the cities before you go. The authors Street-by-Street views of the city are a little confusing but detailed at the same time. When traveling to Dublin, I recommend you visit Trinity College. I have been there and this book lays out many things that I learned during the tour of the beautiful historic College. The only thing I do not like about the pages is that they are a little over crowded. While seeing Trinity College we could have saw the Book of Kells. Now, I recommend this book because the author gives a full page history on the Book of Kells; and if I would have known what it was when I was there, I would have gone to see it.

 Temple Bar was one of my favorite places to visit while I was in Dublin. I like how the author gives a brief history on Temple Bar and where it is located. I also like how the author gives a history on St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Once again, I recommend this travel guide because St. Patrick’s Church would have been a lot more interesting than it was if I would have read this before I traveled there. I really enjoyed reading the section on Christ Church Cathedral. The church was very cool to see and the history this author gives is very helpful. (Insert Amazon link with picture)

The Guinness section of this travel guide is just awesome. I highly recommend you visit the Guinness Storehouse and if you read this beforehand, you will be set. The author gives a very detailed written history on Guinness and gives a diagram of how Guinness is made.

I like how this author gives a very well written detailed look of the areas and exploring Beyond Dublin. The pages on Glendalough describe it very well and I recommend reading this section if you plan on traveling beyond Dublin like my group and I did while we were there. This section tells and gives the history on everything you will see, from the two lakes to the round tower at Glendalough to Military Road to the beautiful Wicklow Mountains. I have been to all of those places and the author’s section on them I really liked.

This travel guide is also nice because it gives you a detailed outline on where to stay in Dublin. This list on choosing a hotel is great because it gives you a brief description on the hotel, an idea of the price, and the contact information. I also like reading the Restaurants, Cafes, and Pubs section of this travel guide because it lays out which are the best, where they are located, and a brief description with some of them even having a pictures. I wish I would of read this book before I went because it gives great ideas on what to buy in Dublin for souvenirs. And finally, the last section is also nice because it gives some practical information on surviving while traveling throughout Dublin; I agree with most of the information, having been there and experienced that awesome city. 

My Europe Behind The Scenes Website

Along with my Behind The Scenes Blog, I also have a website where I give behind the scenes insights. Click Here To Visit My Website

This is what my website is all about:

My Mission:

To share my own personal experience of preparing to go abroad and having the most rewarding time of your life, while being abroad. 

Europe “behind the scenes” is focused on 3 areas: preparing to go abroad, host family life/school life, and leisure time while abroad in Europe.

Preparing to go:

I give valuable insight on what to pack (clothes, shoes, toiletries, and other stuff) what kind of luggage to pack it in. A first hand perspective is given on what kind of mindset you should be in before you go abroad and throughout the first few days.

Host family life/School life abroad:

A behind the scenes outlook is given on what kind of customs to expect while in Europe. My personal experience and ideas on culture shock also are told. I give a summary of what I talked with my host family, as well.

Leisure time abroad:

Customs while going out into towns is discussed. A behind the scenes look at the best places to go while in the major cities in Europe. 

According to recent information attained in my Universities abroad office, many college students (mostly Juniors and Seniors) are interested in traveling abroad to study and for leisure.

The reasons for this demand include:

1. Globalization and international business is expanding everyday

2. Jobs upon graduation are becoming more competitive everyday

3. Want to experience different cultures around the world 

Analyze a top blog: Europe Word

I analyzed a travel blog: Europe Word Blog  I enjoyed reading this blog because it gives insight on a whole range on topics on Europe. I liked how the blog gave travel tips. For example, it talked about how using the metro in Europe is highly recommended. I agree because most of Europe’s metro is very easy to use and cheap. I do think that using the metro is one the  best European tips. I also agree with how the blog talked about having a little cash is the way to go. From experience, my Visa credit card was excepted pretty much anywhere. However, some places have a minimum amount, so it was nice having cash. I liked how the blog talked about specific holidays, Halloween for example, and how it is celebrated over in Europe. The blog was nice because it was very organized. I liked how there was links to popular European Posts on the left side. I liked how you can explore facts about Europe and European lifestyle. I highly agreed with the post on Europe’s top ten beaches! Because I have been to the number 1, Biarritz, France! And it is so awesome!! I like how this blog gives insights on everything from the best restaurants in Europe to European coffee shops. I enjoyed reading about Eastern Europe. I learned a lot about Eastern Europe while I studied at The University of West England and it is always interesting to read peoples insights on it. All in all, I enjoyed reading many articles on this top blog and I recommend reading it before you go. 

Promote another website: Rick Steves' Website

I am choosing to promote the Rick Steves’ website .Rick Steves's Website . I like this site because it is very well organized and detailed. Being to Europe, I think it is a really good place to go for help on planning your trip to Europe. Rick has a list of countries and cities that he gives, what it think is, valuable insight on what to do and where to go. I also like how Rick explains the railpasses clearly. From experience, the booking trains can be a little confusing. I like how Rick has a travel store on his site. It is a convenient way to get some travel gear before you go. I enjoyed reading the section news and events on his site. I liked how he gives up-to-date information on what is going on across Europe. I liked how Rick gives tips into what to do if you loose all of your valuables. Also, I liked how there is a whole section to his website that is all about tours throughout Europe. Trying to search for the right tours to go on before hand can be a little confusing; I wish I would have known about this site. Rick Steves’ has many travel books that I highly recommend you purchase before leaving. I liked how there is a section on books on his website. This section gives insight on what is in his guidebooks. All in all, I recommend this website for many reasons. My main reason is because it is well organized and it seems to be a very valuable site to check out before you travel to Europe.

Rick Steves' Dublin

Rick Steves' Best of Europe 2010

2011 Rick Steves' London Travel Guide

Rick Steves' Britain

Rick Steves' France 2011

Rick Steves' Best of Europe 2011

Amsterdam, Bruges, Brussels

Ireland 2010. Rick Steves'

Rick Steves' Italy Travel Guide

Rick Steves' London Travel Guide

The Tower of London & Tower Bridge

While in the heart of London, there are so many restaurants within walking distance from the hotels. One morning a couple of friends and I walked to a local breakfast place to get some English bacon and eggs.  After breakfast we headed off on the London Tube for Tower Hill. That’s the great thing about London, there are Tube stops everywhere.  

After being in London for a few days, I mastered the Tube.London Tube Tickets It will surprise you how easy it really is to use. We took to tube from Piccadilly Circus and got off a Tower Hill. A small group of friends and I went on a tour of London Tower. I learned the history of London Tower and the historical relevance of it. I highly recommend going to London Tower.  During the tour we went through White Tower and saw a lot of old kings amour. I was surprised to see how small some of the amour was. It was very interesting how a bunch of important people were executed at The Tower of London. During the tour, you will learn that Lady Amberlon, wife of King Henry the eighth at the time, was be-headed there in White Tower. After we went through the White Tower we went to see the Crown Jewels. The Crown Jewels were so beautiful. Crown Jewels Tour InfomationThe line was a little long but I recommend you get there early in the morning. After we finished seeing the Tower of London, we went to Tower Bridge and took some pictures. 

That night we all went to O’Neal’s and had a really good time out in London. I highly recommend this bar because there is many floors and a lot of things going on. We also went to the famous bar called Tiger Tiger. Tiger Tiger Reservations There was awesome entertainment there and great food. Also, always remember to be aware of your surroundings while out in London.  I really learned to be more aware of my surroundings today.

The next day I remember we were so tired from the weekend. I remember waking up and noticing how many different languages I heard while getting ready in the bathroom area of the hostel. After breakfast at McDonalds again, because it was cheap and we were all out of money, I remember we rode the Tube to Tower Hill again and relaxed in a park for a couple hours. It was nice to relax and I thought it was very interesting lying on the grass feeling the ground moving underneath me because of the Tube. After a long extended weekend nothing felt better than relaxing in a beautiful park in the heart of one of the most famous cities in the world. 

A Typical Busy Day Abroad.

While studying in Europe, especially with a summer program, you will most likely have a really really busy schedule. First, a school, we watched a video called Eye of the Storm. The main focus was on communicating across cultures. I remember us learning about discrimination, as well. During the afternoon, we went to this worship place, called the Octagon, on campus and split up into groups and gave presentations. We listened to a brief description from a pastor called A Question of Faith. Being American students, we all thought it was very interesting how they had a worship place on a public campus. At the UWE Octagon, students can come and get help with school, go and relax in the quiet room, practice yoga, or just come in and practice their religion. I thought it was very cool how UWE had an organization like the Octagon. I think it would be so nice if my University had a place to go and relax. While in a study abroad program, you will have to do many group presentations, which are fun and engaging. Our presentation was composed of our answers and suggestions to three questions on how students, alumni, and faculty more aware and involved in the Octagon. I remember a few of my group’s suggestions were that they should elect student ambassadors to walk around UWE and talk to students about the services that the Octagon provides.  That night at dinner, with the my host family, we talked about the laws in the UK and how they are different then back in the U.S. I thought it was so interesting and awesome that it is not against the law to have an open drink, on most of the streets throughout Bristol, England. I remember talking about how most of the countries, around Europe, have a very young drinking age compared to America. When staying with a host family, I recommend you talk with them a lot, because it was very interesting 

Irish Countryside

While we were in Dublin we decided that we wanted to see the Ireland countryside.  My group of 12 headed off on a day tour to Wicklow Glendalough; which is the best of the gardens of Ireland. This tour was on a coach and included villages were monks lived, skinny roads along mountains, waterfalls, and lakes. First, due to the rain, I remember us seeing  the Avoca hand weavers in Ballykissangle. We were given the opportunity to Ireland’s oldest mill, established in 1723. This mill made me think of the movie Wanted because they had the same weaving machines.  After the mill, the tour bus took us from little village to little village. The cliffs were just spectacular. I highly recommend you go on a tour to Ireland’s countryside because it beautiful.  I thought it was really cool how the road we were traveling on was pretty much empty. During this tour, I remember us going to Sally Gap, where the movie P.S. I Love You was filmed. After those small villages, we arrived at Glendalough where we had a self guided walk through 6th Century monastic settlements. We were given the opportunity to visit the valley of the two lakes, where a  wedding scene in Braveheart was filmed. When traveling to the Irish countryside, I highly recommend you to a traditional Irish lunch. We had one with potatoes and soup at the pub where Leap Year was filmed.  This tour was cool because we also stopped at Guinness Lake. Guinness Lake is black because of the sand they brought in on the private estate. During the end of our tour, I remember us driving past some of the private estates that Michael Jackson, Tiger woods, and many other famous stars have stayed at. All in all, during this tour, I think we saw the best of Ireland's country side, so I highly recommend it.
After the day tour, we went to out to dinner at Fitzsimons. Fitzsimons is a club on Temple Bar Street. While in Ireland, I recommend you have delicious Irish burger.  We ended up staying there all night because it had five floors. Each floor of Fitzsimons had a different theme so it was like we were going to different places.  I recommend you check out Fitzsimons while in Dublin. 

Dublin: The Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery

While in Dublin, like the Guinness Storehouse, I highly recommend visiting the Jameson Distillery.  We also used the hop on hop off tour bus and went to the Jameson Irish Whiskey distillery. After a short movie on the history of Jameson, I got the opportunity to go on a guided tour of how Jameson is made. First, Jameson Whiskey started in 1780 when John Jameson established the Bow Street Distillery in Dublin. During our tour, we saw that there are many different kinds of Jameson Whiskey, including Jameson god reserve and Jameson 12 year old distiller reserve. I learned that Jameson is the best selling Irish whiskey in the World. After the guided tour, my friend and I got picked to be part of only 9, out of at least 50 people, to be a whiskey tester. We got the privilege to sit at a special table to taste a Scottish Whiskey, an American Whiskey (Jack Daniels), and Jameson Irish Whiskey. We sat at a table in front of everyone else. After tasting those four different times in different orders, it was a unanimous decision, all 9 of us liked Jameson the best. I thought Jameson was the best because it was the smoothest. All in all, I received a signed certificate with my name on it stating that I am a certified Jameson Irish Whiskey tester. I will never forget that.

After both tours, we went back to the hostel to get ready to go out. That night we went out to the Tumble Bar area.  I highly recommend you visit Temple Bar. There is The Temple Bar which is located on Temple Bar Street. Throughout the evening, we went from bar to bar listening to live bands. I thought it was awesome how all of the live bands were playing American music. At the end of the night, we visited five different traditional pubs. If you want to have a great time in Dublin Visit Dublin, go to Temple Bar Street. 

Inside the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin

Our second day in Dublin we could not wait to go to the Guinness Storehouse at St. James Gate.Guinness Storehouse (I highly recommend you go if you visit Dublin). By the Dublin Spire there is a couple small pizza places, I recommend you go to those, to get some food. The pizza was pretty good and it was a slice and coke for 4 Euros. Then, after breakfast, I remember us walking to the local supermarket to buy some water and cereal bars for the rest of the weekend. I also recommend you do that because it will save you some money.  I noticed that there was a lot of security at the supermarket, which is not common for back in the United States. I brought a six pack of bottle water back to the hostel and when I opened one it exploded all over me and the floor. I soon learned, after a good laugh with everyone, that I actually bought Irish sparkling carbonated water. I did not like the taste, I had never heard of carbonated water before, but I still drank everyone. Then our group of 12 went out and bought Dublin Passes. When in Dublin, get the Dublin Pass and go on the hop on hop off bus tour.  You will be able to see all of the major sites of Dublin in a couple days. We hopped on a hop on hop off bus tour, that was right outside the tourist building where we were. We hopped off at the Guinness Store house. During the first part of the tour, I learned the history of Guinness and how it is made. I remember the first part of the tour showed me how Arthur Guinness started brewing ales in 1759 at the St. James's Gate Brewery in Dublin. Guinness is made of Guinness stout, made from water, barley, hops, and yeast. You will see all of these steps during the awesome tour. It is then treated with isinglass finings. A portion of barley is roasted to give the beer its dark color. After the tour we went up to the Gravity Bar on the top of the Storehouse. I was really interesting to talk to the bar tender who told me  that, individually, one bar tender at the Gravity Bar pours 300-500 a day at Guinness. On a busy average weekend day, Guinness pours around 4000 pints. From the Gravity Bar, you can see all of Dublin so I highly recommend you go there. Guinness Merchandise

Behind: Berkeley Castle in England & Dublin, Day 1

If you travel to the west of England (almost to Wales) I recommend you stop at Berkeley Castle in Berkeley, Gloucestershire.  Our group was given the opportunity to travel there and get a tour of this significant castle. I recommend you go here if you like seeing history on beautiful English county land.  It was very interesting to learn that the same family (The Berkeley Family)  has been living at Berkley Castle for over 900 consecutive years. The family lives on the one side while tours are given on the other. While touring the amazing castle you will get a history of it. During the tour we saw the room King Edward the second was murdered there by people sticking a hot iron in his you know what.

Dublin: While in Europe, I highly recommend you travel to the amazing cultural city of Dublin Ireland. Many small airlines Ryan Airlines ,easyJet Airlines offer very cheap flights from many cities around Europe and especially England.  About 12 of us took a flight from Bristol, England to Dublin. There are many taxis that will get you to pretty much anywhere in the Dublin area. We stayed in a hostel called Jacobs Inn in the heart of the city. I recommend you book early and if you have a group, book a room all together at hostels. Our hostel was located by the Dublin Spire. It was very easy to walk home at night because we just looked for the tall spire. When in Dublin, I recommend you go to McDonalds because they have curly fries(that as far as I know they do not have in America) that are so good. I remember there was security guards at McDonalds, which was interesting because, I had never seen armed security at McDonalds before.  After dinner we went to a pub that was also a nightclub. It was right by a large green Heineken sign right by the river.  While at the club we requested our favorite American songs and that the DJ played pretty much all of them.

London: The Palace of Westminster, Behind The Scenes

While I was studying abroad, our group of students was given the opportunity to tour inside the Houses of Parliament at the Palace of Westminster in London. This day was very exciting because not many people get the chance to go behind the scenes and see inside such an historic and famous place. When we arrived, I remember there was a lot of visible security guards and many cameras facing everywhere. We went through security and got our picture taken for our visitor passes we wore around our necks. We were taken into the House of Lords after walking right where Queen Elisabeth walked just about a week earlier to open up Parliament. I could not get over all of the detail on the walls and ceilings; everything was there for a reason and important. The House of Lords had red benches and seeing the Queen’s thorn was amazing. The entire chair is gold and so detailed it is like nothing else. There were a few big red flat cushioned benches where some the Lords sit to revise and initiate legislation.  The paintings of past Kings, Queens, and other significant figures in British history were amazing and huge. As we walked through the House of Commons it was really cool to stand at the podium where the Prime Minister of England stands for debates and speeches. The House of Commons had green benches where over 600 democratically elected Members of Parliament (MPs) meet to debate and make laws. There was a red line on each side of the House of Commons in front of the benches. It was so cool to learn that the space between the two red lines is exactly the length of two swords; back then when MPs would argue they would both draw their swords from each side of the benches and their sword's tips would just touch. When Parliamentarians signal they want to speak by standing up; it is called “catching the speakers eye”.  We were not allowed to take any pictures inside the Houses of Parliament but I took many mental pictures that I will remember for years to come. This was an amazing behind the scenes experience, I recommend you try to go see the Palace of Westminster because you will not see anything like that anywhere else.