We entered the Raleigh-Durham airport at 2:30, 3 hours before our flight was scheduled to take off, smiles plastered on our faces. After waiting a little while, everyone finally showed up and we were able to take our pictures and say goodbye to our families. We headed through security and unluckily, a few items were confiscated for exceeding the 3.4 oz limit. We managed to make it to the gate, grabbing some snacks and lunches along the way. After stuffing ourselves with delightful airport food, we boarded the flight and found our seats. We sat ourselves down, preparing for the lovely 7 hour and 32 minute flight ahead. After approximately an hour, we were offered delightful dinner options, including sesame ginger salad, chicken and mashed potatoes, or a delicious Alfredo pasta dish, all contained within a 2 by 4 inch plastic container. Side options included fresh fruit, veggies, cheese and crackers, butter, dressings, and a small blondie for dessert. This hearty, protein filled, 5-star meal was an absolute delight, filling us up with yummy goodness. After force feeding ourselves this mush, we searched through the airport movie options, entertaining ourselves with movies such as Aquaman, Mary Poppins, and Saving Private Ryan. Indeed, we also played WiFi-less games such as 4096, slither.io, dot spinner, temple run, papas pizzeria, and dumb ways to die. With such variety, we couldn’t wait for the 6 hour bus ride ahead of us; indeed, we were having the time of our lives. We got on the bus and sat down for a lovely ride ahead of us. I managed to get a couple short power naps in, and others played card games until we all settled for a game of telephone across the bus. After we reached the epitome of boredom, we stopped for lunch at a lovely food court. Most of us attempted to speak French, but many failed, and the employees simply responded in English. Hopefully we will improve throughout the trip! I ordered potatoes and chicken and enjoyed it thoroughly. We then headed back on the bus and made it to Tours! We spotted our exchange students and ran off the bus to hug them, luggage in hand.
When I found Julia, we ate a few snacks, got our schedule, and headed off to our favorite activity: shopping. About 15 of us headed off into the beautiful streets of tours, passing by adorable French shops, restaurants, and boutiques. Julia decided to skip her German class so we could leave school at 4 instead of 6, so her mom picked us up, and we lugged my luggage into the house. I attempted to speak as much French as possible, and luckily her mom understood most of what I was saying without the few English words thrown in. She offered me food, but I was simply exhausted, going straight to my room after giving her a few housewarming presents so Julia could study. I am so excited for the days to come with her adorable dog and amazing family!
