Enjoying a New Reality

My first week in Vienna has been my first ever experience traveling abroad. The journey over was lengthy and stressful but nothing could prepare me for how much I would love being in Austria. Upon exiting the airport, I had to take public transportation to the dormitory on my own (due to missing my connecting flight and missing the pickup hours) and through all the stress my body was going through, I could not stop thinking how beautiful it was to finally be here. 

Everyday I marvel at the architecture of all the local buildings and I cannot believe people live in these amazing artworks. I wake up and see beauty through my window. I step outside and stare for hours without becoming tired. How blessed my eyes are to see something as ordinary as living apartments. 

On our way to a restaurant, my eye was caught by this whimsical building. My first thoughts concluded that this strange building was a museum of art, or perhaps an attraction park. It turned out to be a waste incinerator, something that I would normally never be concerned about had completely captured my attention. I wondered what else will I be drawn to during this trip. What more will I be able to find.  

From a waste incinerator to a grand palace, Vienna holds artistry in everything. It was a bit saddening that pictures were not allowed inside but I will never forget walking through the palace and being absorbed in its elegance. 

Took some time to get lost inside a maze with a fellow classmate. 

Felt deeply intrigued by the many gorgeous statues and fountains. I believed I must've stared at them for much longer than intended.  

I spent time in the park with a friend I made on the flight to Vienna. We sat together on the grass and did embroidery and crocheting while we talked for hours to get to know each other more. During such a hectic first week, this peaceful moment is what brought me to the realization of the new reality I am experiencing. I'm living in the dream that I had spent hours thinking about and it is so much more overwhelming and breathtaking than I could've ever imagined. 

Victoria Morales Vargas