Ruhlsdorf

Despite going to bed very late last night, I still woke at the regular time, which is probably likely because my brain is working overtime thinking about everything I needed to do. As breakfast was provided here, I got dressed and went down to the modest dining room. I’m pretty sure I’m the only person who speaks English here! The breakfast was very traditionally German, with bread, meats, eggs, cheese and coffee. I think everyone else staying here is at least 60 years old too!

After last nights expensive Uber to the hotel, I asked my cousin Roman if he could pick me up today. He arranged for my other cousin Sandy to pick me up instead as she would be passing by on the way to Roman’s place. I had plenty of time to get ready, as the checkout time was 12:30pm.

It was really great to see Sandy and Martin again, and I also got to meet their three kids, including their eldest Julia who is thinking about coming to Adelaide next year. I was originally concerned that my suitcase would be too big for their car but we managed to fit it in perfectly.

The drive to Roman and Steffi’s house was about 20 minutes and he has very kindly let me stay there during my time in Berlin. He has a detached apartment close to his house, which they rent out via Airbnb, and is a great size with two bedrooms, kitchen and a large living room. Roman had arranged a barbecue for all of us which was a great way to spend the afternoon. Plenty of food and good conversation!

The weather turned bad by late afternoon, which everyone said has been typical of the weather recently, so we packed up everything and continued inside. Sadly it wasn’t long until Sandy, Martin and their kids had to return to their place which is about an hour away. Hopefully we will be back in Germany again or they will be able to come to Australia soon.

By the evening, the weather had turned nice again, so Roman and Steffi set dinner up again outside. Since the days are longer here too, it was still light when we all headed to bed. Tomorrow I will taking a train to Leipzig to visit my friend Luise whom I met whilst studying Spanish in Valencia back in 2017.Read more