Narnia

First of all, I'm sorry it has taken me this long to post. Although Estonia is regaled for its Internet, I did not efficiently get Internet in my room until just today.

I arrived in Tartu this past Tuesday afternoon. The first impression of Tartu that I was able to take in was the 2.5 hour bus ride from the airport in Tallinn, the capital. I was exhausted from the trip and fell asleep shortly after the bus left the station. When I woke up a little later and looked out the window, I felt as if I had woken up on a train to Narnia. I saw crystal white snow for miles, tall evergreens, and charming small farm houses. I was quite relieved, because I had been prepared to arrive to a dark, wet, cold city. I had also been told in advance to expect Estonians to keep to themselves. Although an American may perceive them as rude or unfriendly, this is simply just "the Estonian way". They are quiet people, but extremely kind and helpful when initiated to.
Finding dinner the first night was interesting. The food here is quite different. I do not know how to explain it, accept that although many things are similar, they are just different. Everything seems to be in smaller portions, and glass bottles are quite as common as plastic ones.
I have enjoyed very much meeting so many students from so many different countries. My roommate is from Spain, and my 3 other flatmates are from the U.S., Paris, and Georgia. I love to talk to others about their culture in relation to mine and to Estonia. I have learned so much already just from these informal conversations.
Classes and registration begins tomorrow, so I will have more to say about academics soon.

Bye for now
Leigha