Bis Dann, Luxembourg

Yeah, I'll say it... I'm going to miss Luxembourg. It only took me 1.5 years to realize that this teeny, tiny country could feel like a second home to me - and all the people I met a second family.

My first impression back in August 2015 was, "What in the world do people do here in free time?" I mean, it is smaller than the state of Rhode Island after all. However, disregarding the size, there's a lot for me to be thankful for about my experience living and playing volleyball overseas here...

1. No matter where you go, you're bound to run into AT LEAST 1 person you know.

I can't tell you how many times I was with teammates or my boyfriend and they saw someone they knew at: the grocery store, the mall, the city, a random park, restaurant, gym, on the sidewalk in some commune, etc...tight-knit community!

2. The beer/rosé is cold, inexpensive, and tasty. Prost!

It took me a while to develop a taste and appreciation for beer in the U.S., but when I came here it became a norm. Cracking open a beer on a terrace with friends or ordering a Franziskaner weissbier in winter...*ahhhh :) Even after a long week of training my teammates and I would have a beer in the shower before going home - team bonding!

3. Average Luxembourg dress code looks 365% more classy than most Americans I've seen (but there's also some high caliber freaks in the mix)

I can't say EVERYONE here has style, but overall when I go out in town or the city it seems like most take time to design their appearance. Simplicity is everything - with the exception of some peacocks out there wearing the flashy shoes or jewelry. Oh, and BTW, the shoe game here is on fire.

4. Sundays most shops are closed (except gas stations), so you're forced to get outside, enjoy some relaxation, or spend time with friends and family.

This is something I don't mind, because I like to recuperate on Sundays anyways...Also, this isn't so uncommon throughout Europe.

5. SO many languages!

Luxembourgish, French, German, English - most locals can speak these languages...if not those 4 than at least 2. So, Americans, we gotta catch up! Take a language class or listen to audio tapes on your way to work. Learning languages may be more difficult to learn at an older age, but who cares? Take your time. International communication is an uplifting experience.

6. Outside finance and insurance, teachers have some of the highest paid salaries. Yep, you heard me...TEACHERS GET BANK $$$.

A few of my teammates are teachers outside of playing volleyball, and they live a good life! Luxembourg takes care of its educators, unlike many unfortunate people in the U.S. :( Even the minimum wage FT job here allows any individual to live a decent life - shelter, food, transportation, etc. Also, teachers get paid holidays and time off in summer ;)

7. Healthcare is stupid affordable, and still good quality.

I think the best example of this I can give is this:

Around October I suffered a minor muscle tear in my right shoulder (the money-maker). Though it was minor, it was enough that I could not serve or hit the ball. I went to physical therapy sessions for months until it was mostly healed. For 10 1-hour sessions I paid 105 Euros out of pocket, the rest reimbursed. That's barely over 10 Euros a session (about 12 USD)!!! Try getting ONE PT session for $12 in the U.S. - doubt it.

8. The entire COSL and sports community is supportive of each other.

Even if you're not on an Olympic team here, if you play on a club team, you're likely to get high respect and camaraderie from the community. Whether it's just a casual head-nod from a stranger, or someone telling you you played well this weekend, the acknowledgement is not scarce.

9. Every Luxembourg(er?) seems to carry the pride of the country on their sleeves.

Luxembourg knows it's small, but the people know their benefits too - and they're not afraid to share it all with you! Luxembourg flags everywhere, people bragging about the beer or food quality, people flaunting their good wages, and celebrating any random holiday they can get away with (haha, this one is my favorite) ;)

10. Easy access to 4 other European countries, and, eventually, others.

Belgium, France, Netherlands, and Germany are just a short drive to any one of Luxembourg's borders. I feel so privileged.

11. The nightclub/party scene may be a small selection, but there's a place for everyone.

I've been to small bars with mostly elderly folks, ritzy nightclubs with VIP booths and DJs, Aprés ski events at the bottom of ski resorts, intimate celebrations in the sports hall buvettes, outdoor festivals/parades with drink and food tents, etc.... You're bound to find something with your vibe.

12. Chrëschtmaart An Der Staat!

These are infamous in Europe for being the BEST part of Christmas time. Christmas markets make me so happy - bright lights decorated on buildings and trees, hot Glühwein, live music, outdoor ice-skating rinks, rustic/cabin-style outdoor bars, food and shop booths galore :) There is nothing quite the same in the states.

There are countless other memories I have, but the thing I'm going to miss the most are the PEOPLE that walked into my life here!! It's going to be an emotional departure, but I know that it's not officially a "Goodbye"...just a "See you later" <3