Summer is officially here in Europe. Which means EVERYONE goes on vacation (I mean, holiday). And not just for a few days at a time. When Europeans go on holiday, they are SERIOUS. 2 week holidays are considered short, with trips of several weeks to a month commonplace. In fact, my boss here in Europe and several of my co-workers are all out on 6-week vacations abroad...!!!
From the last week of June (when all the kids are out for summer) through the end of August, families, couples and friends all make plans to go on holiday. It's a mass exodus out of the cities to all of the vacation hotspots. The south of France, Switzerland and anywhere warm near the coast are all popular destinations.
And, it's very strange to have virtually no traffic during my morning and afternoon commutes. Although the traffic on my drive is normally light, sometimes it feels like I am the only one not on holiday.
Our work schedules also are affected during the summer months. Meetings are cancelled and many activities are postponed. And nobody seems to think its a big deal (except one guy from the US!) It is a very strange feeling for someone, like me, who revolves around deadlines.
Which is not to say its all play and no work in the office (just in case my U.S. boss happens to be reading this!). Its just very different.
But something I think I can learn to enjoy...
Ray
Hi everyone!
As most of you know, Ray has accepted a 2-year assignment with Toyota's European Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. For those of you who do not know, Belgium is located next to France, Germany and the Netherlands. The home of NATO and the European Union, it is considered the "gateway to Europe" with its easy access to many European countries. (Hint, hint--good excuse to come and visit!)
Ray started his new position in February, 2008. The girls and I arrived here in late March. We are living just outside the city of Brussels in the commune of Tervuren, Belgium.
Although we are sad to temporarily leave our family and friends, we are excited for this adventure. What an opportunity to leave our tiny box and experience life outside of America!
As most of you know, Ray has accepted a 2-year assignment with Toyota's European Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. For those of you who do not know, Belgium is located next to France, Germany and the Netherlands. The home of NATO and the European Union, it is considered the "gateway to Europe" with its easy access to many European countries. (Hint, hint--good excuse to come and visit!)
Ray started his new position in February, 2008. The girls and I arrived here in late March. We are living just outside the city of Brussels in the commune of Tervuren, Belgium.
Although we are sad to temporarily leave our family and friends, we are excited for this adventure. What an opportunity to leave our tiny box and experience life outside of America!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
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