I have arrived. I have gotten lost. I have not found myself yet. Though my flight came in Monday morning, I did not have orientation until Wednesday afternoon. The logic, which they soon made explicit, was to cut us loose to experience Athens on our own terms. Or rather, on Greek terms, but on our own. I feel more out of place around the students than the city, however. Last night I was glad of “adult” company when the administrators and teachers took us out in groups to tavernas around town, and I talked with the VP, Alex, and his wife Svenja about everyday life and culture in Athens. Basically it sounds exactly like My Big Fat Greek Wedding, full of as much humor and as much community support… and social expectations. I plan to find a nice cafe and watch the people go by, as the Greeks do.

The weather is nice, and not too cold, and the air smells like tangerines (it’s a pity they’re too sour to eat). There are dogs and cats here, but they are more communal pets than mangy beggars. The dogs defend their territory from other dogs, but they are well-fed and well-behaved; one even waited at a cross-walk before following me across. The pigeons are the same ubiquitous breed, and the cars are just as inconsiderate of pedestrians as anywhere else. But there are sidewalks and lovely winding alleyways, trees on the roadside, and large public gardens. Since English books are expensive, I will just have spend my leisure time exploring the city on foot. This is also one cure for homesickness. The other is eating food, which is excellent here. My dollars may not go far here, but I think they will be well spent on the occasional culinary adventure.