OCEANS AWAY

Move along, move along

Filed under Daily Life

I had a Skype date last night with the two girls whose apartment I’d really, really love to move into for my 6-month internship in Cologne. Ever since I experienced sharing a big house with 30 other students and a small room with a girl I had never met before during my time in Sweden, I have wanted to move to a “WG” (Wohngemeinschaft (German); sharing an apartment with a group of people) over here as well. It’s extremely common, especially among people of my age and especially in the big cities – because it’s cheaper and, ideally, more fun than living by yourself. Also, since I don’t know Cologne at all, it would be great to have a flat mate that knows her way around and can help out whenever needed.

Among all the many apartments that are listed online, this was one of very few that were free during the time period I’ll be in Cologne. But also both girls were super nice in their emails and when we talked last night. My would-be flat mate is also currently doing a marketing internship in Cologne so that alone would be a great fit. She also has two bunnies living in her room with her which- they’re not dogs, exactly, but I’ve always wanted pets! The kitchen is small and cozy, the bathroom newly renovated, and my room would have a small balcony. The apartment itself is not located as central as I had originally hoped but the more I think about it, the more I think it might be much better to live a little outside the big city chaos that I’m so new to.

Naturally, rent would be cheaper than here in Maastricht (rent here is ridiculous; in theory, I could get a place twice the size in Cologne for the same price). Both girls said they’re also big fans of traveling and foreign cultures, and not interested in spending every single weekend at random clubs in a drunken stupor. And, as is the custom, the room comes fully furnished because the girl will of course return at some point – which is perfect because I’m renting my apartment here in Maastricht to someone for the 6-month period with all my furniture still in it as well. It’s just easier that way. In fact, the first candidate came by yesterday – a super sweet girl from Cologne (what are the odds!) who will be studying fashion design here in Maastricht – and we’ve already agreed that she’ll be the one, and I canceled everyone else who was supposed to come in. I’m relieved I could resolve that part of the equation so quickly!

So at this point, I’m essentially almost-homeless. I’ve had a crazy stream of luck lately, and it would be simply marvelous if it wouldn’t break off just yet. The girls said they were looking at more potential candidates this week, and would let me know this weekend. This is the last big thing that needs to fall into place for my whole internship adventure to begin so, once again, I’m going to ask you to cross your fingers for me! Heh.