Jet lag and Tirana.

            Yesterday we arrived at our final destination: Tirana, Albania. After a nine hour flight to Munich, Germany, and losing much needed sleep, needless to say we were all exhausted. We arrived in Tirana at around 11:00 a.m. We then went to our hotel which is extremely comfortable, and then we went out to eat. After eating a delicious meal of pasta or pizza, we all passed out for a couple hours. We then met up with some of Dr. Bego’s family; they later took us to an Irish Pub, so it was 12:00 A.M. by the time we got back to the hotel. Today we met up at 9:00 in order to discuss the daily reading. Today’s topic was defining what the Balkan Islands are and why it’s so hard to define them due to historical conflicts and diverse backgrounds of each country. We then went to the national history museum, an art gallery, and a mosque. It was fascinating to learn about the history of Albania; the art in the gallery also followed the history, and it was awesome to be able understand the art based on what time period it was created. Each site was highly interesting, but I personally enjoying seeing Muslims worshipping to Mecca. That was a new experience, and it made me more understanding and open towards their religion, especially since there aren’t many Muslims in my community. I’ve made some observations about Tirana in the short time we have been here. One, there traffic is intense to the point of being scary. Cars don’t stop for pedestrians, and they certainly don’t follow any rules like one ways. There have been times where I was convinced I might die from being hit. Plus, I don’t pay attention very well, so I’m trying to be on high alert. Two, inequality is highly noticeable. For instance, on the same street, you might see a person driving a Mercedes Benz, and a homeless person begging for money. There are tons of kids who go up to people and beg. This definitely started pulling on my heart strings a little, until one girl clung on to Ethan for seventy or so yards, asking for money. Dr. Bego finally told the child to leave Ethan alone or she would call the police. They spoke in Albanian for a small time, before the girl finally let go. But when she let go, she slapped Ethan’s arm, and then walked by me and hit me in the leg. I joked that I have a ten year old sister, so I’m use to kids smacking me around. It still shocked me, though, to see how fierce these kids are. We learned they are raised that way by their parent in order to receive more money. Another thing that I find interesting is that Albanians don’t eat lunch until two or three, and they don’t eat dinner until nine or ten. We have had a lot of pasta and pizza here which is something I didn’t expect. It’s amazing, so I have no complaints. It’s also five to six dollars for an average sit down meal. The tipping situation is different here, too. We only leave the change, which as a waitress, I would be irate if that’s all I got. However, it’s just another cultural difference that we have experienced. It’s been a transition, that’s for sure. This is the first time I’ve been in a place where I can’t speak their language or communicate with the people freely. It’s frustrating at times, but it’s a great way to learn nonverbal communication and also to pick up on a new language. We all have learned how to say hello, yes, thank you, no, please, help, bathroom, and cheers! We are also getting a lot better at figuring out how to use Lekk, the Albanian currency. Our schedule for tomorrow is to eat breakfast at 7:45, discuss our daily readings, and then leave for the beach tomorrow by 9:00. The forecast for tomorrow is in the upper 60’s. I heard from Sandra that is snowed, so I’m feeling confident in my decision to leave Nebraska when I did. I do miss everyone very much, but the group of people I’m with is amazing. It’s only day three, but I’ve laughed so much and enjoyed all the new experiences with them. We ended our night by going to a bar. We all just enjoyed talking to Dr. Bego’s cousin and his friend. It was a great way to end the day. I look forward to what the rest of the trip brings.
I'll be posting pictures when I have time, but it's late here and I need sleep! Good night!