The country of coffee, pasta, pizza, gelato

This feels familiar, a foreign land, foreign language, though not-so-foreign food. Right now, for me, this is a land which represents the troubles which I've had so far. Though I must say that it is rather nice city, very interesting landscape, a combination of hills and the sea. (and I do so love the sea!)
Last week I visited the institute for a quick meeting and attended a symposium on Friday with interesting talks and good food. I really do like the department where I would (hopefully) do my PhD. There's been a new problem (derived from a misunderstanding) that could be a huge tripping stone in my PhD application at the university. Right now I can only pray that God will work a miracle so everything will work out ok.

I miss how everything works in Germany, their efficiency, my friends and also the bretzels that I've grown to love. And as always Singapore too. It is probably not so bad that I have to fly back home (at my own expense) to get my visa done because I would get another chance to see my family this year. Am learning to think of the positive things in this crappy situation.

I think it's lucky that my temporary accomodation is near the sea (there's a sea view!) and yesterday I went with some friends to get some sun and just relax. I am surprised to see the whole beach with copper bodies! Everyone's so tanned here! I got a little bit burnt because I didn't have any sunscreen with me (and neither did my friends) but luckily it wasn't too bad.

Think I'll go take a walk along the beach now. :) Hopefully I can update with more positive news in the next weeks.