THE AMERICAN EMBASSY

If you've been to Europe, you know the place is a giant ash tray. People smoke wherever you go, at any time, anywhere. In cafes sans windows and closed doors, in restaurants, in pubs, EVERYWHERE. And the doors are always closed because it is fer-ree-zing here. As I am typing right now the guy next to me is blowing smoke in my face, loverly.

So last night, Maria and I decided to take a trip into town and study at Starbucks. As soon as we walked in, I felt as if I just stepped onto American soil. Jazzy music playing, plush couches everywhere, and yes, signs all over with the words NO SMOKING ALLOWED in several different languages. Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!! The $4 euro coffee was worth it!