Tuesday
So Monday night went a little better. I went with Susanne, my relocation helper, to the car dealer to pick up my car. I learned a few of things: The warranty works fine, the mechanic who speaks good English is on vacation, Germans will do almost anything to get rid of non-German speaking customers even if it means going above and beyond. The mechanic was afraid to come out until he was told I had a translator with me. For you car people, I had failed crank position and cam sensors, which put the car into limp mode.
The other major accomplishment for the day was buying a receiver. I now have radio reception in my house. That means someone will come along asking me to pay the radio tax at some point. It's required because I am able to receive federally subsidized broadcasting. Same thing goes for a tv when I get one. Still, listening to the radio feels like a step towards normalcy. I think the most frustrating thing about this move is having to conduct all of your major life transactions at one time. An apartment, furniture, appliances, and a car are a lot to shove into a 3 week period with the expectation that you actually get some work done. There seems to be a language barrier too.
The roads are clear again and the people are driving like fiends. I had a little frustration driving last night and have to admit to a little hoarsness this morning. I'm trying really hard with the driving thing, and maybe it's just being in a large city, but I've found people will cut you off, tailgate, park anywhere, stop for inexplicable reasons in the middle of the street, crowd in a huge line in the left lane at a stop light knowing damn well it merges into one lane in 100 yards, and just cause general mayhem. On the up side, most people let you in when you signal.
Buses will put you into the wall.
I still wonder what that girl who wanted directions was thinking...
Comments
font is much better john!
i remember when i was investigating buying a condo in puerto vallarta mexico.....allow up to 6 months to get internet connection at your home. otherwise, thats why almost everyone uses the internet cafes and pays "as you go". if i ever do retire to mexico, its best that i set up all the important things needed well before the move date ever occurs.
things are looking better for ya!
Posted by: dave | 30.01.07 11:09
I'm so sorry that you can't report any positive experiences so far. People reading your blog must get a terrifying impression of Germany. Honored readers, it is definitely NOT THAT BAD :-)
Be confident - things are getting better soon!
Posted by: Ludwig | 30.01.07 18:37
Hi Lud! I don't think moving here is any more terryfying that pulling up everything and moving within your native county. Of course I have bad days here and they tend to be magnified by the language barrier but I think I'm managing to take everything in stride. I still enjoy Germany and I have days where some things actually feel in place.
Posted by: justjohn | 31.01.07 01:42