The Start of Studying Abroad
The very first weekend of my 5-month study abroad semester, I spent in Luxembourg City. Though I only spent this one weekend in my host country (Luxembourg), I enjoyed every second!
On this cold January Saturday, I made plans with my friends to meet in the capital, Luxembourg City. I took a bus (#15) to the train station in Sanem, Luxembourg (the town where my host family lived) and rode the train all the way to the city.
To be honest, that very first train ride scared me. Besides the few bus rides I’d taken from my host home to my school, I hadn’t ridden on public transportation by myself, ever.
Luxembourg having free public transportation was my saving grace. I could make as many mistakes as I wanted, and it didn’t cost me a penny. Truly a dream for any international student or traveler.
Arriving in the City
When I arrived in Lux. City, the first necessity was a coffee and a croissant. Before studying in Europe, you would’ve never caught me buying a hot latte. However, that quickly changed when I realized almost all European cafes serve only warm drinks.
Claire Tip: Get coffee and pastries from Fischer’s Bakery (it’s a Luxembourg chain!)
After energizing myself for the day, I met up with my friends near the train station. We then set off without a plan; we just wanted to explore the city.
While wandering, we stumbled across the beautiful Luxembourg church and walked around the area nearby. Here, you can also find the famous Golden Lady statue and all the Luxembourg government buildings.
Claire Tip: Keep an eye out – you may see the Prime Minister, or even the Duke of Luxembourg, walking around the city!
After wandering, we decided to have a picnic. We went to a local grocery store (most likely a Cactus – a chain in Luxembourg) and grabbed a variety of meats, cheeses, olives, chocolates and grapes. Then, we ventured into the park area of the Old Town and set up our feast.
Claire Tip: Maybe plan a picnic when it is warmer than 35° F outside (2° C).
Exploring Old Town
Part of Luxembourg City is actually built around and on top of great and ancient fortress walls. The Old City is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its deep European history and its impressive, still-existing fortifications.
As you journey through the central city, you’ll notice a valley of buildings underneath the bridges that follow along the Alzette River. In this lower town, there are many restaurants, bars, homes, and even parks.
The lower town is my favorite part of the city, with the fortress walls being a close second. You can see the Alzette River cut right through the grey cobble-stoned streets, while a stunning bridge crosses over the sparkling green water and connects the old town as one.
While we didn’t get to try any local restaurants for dinner that evening, I’ve heard many in Luxembourg City are worth trying out! If you ever happen to find yourself in the historical city, I’d recommend enjoying at least one meal while visiting.
After exploring the Old City, we decided to head to a local pub. I tried a local cider while the rest of the group enjoyed Luxembourg beers. Sadly, I can’t remember which specific pub we went to. (but you truly can’t go wrong with any of the local ones!)
I do, however, remember that the pub we visited had the tastiest potato wedges! (Question: Do you dip potatoes and fries in ketchup and mayonnaise, as many Europeans do? I personally love it!)
After finishing our drinks, my friends and I decided to head back to our separate homes and call it a night. As I rode the train back to my host home, I remember thinking to myself, “This will be such a fun semester.”
Carpediem Claire 
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