rainy Saturday

After a long day of sight-seeing and rain, I took the subway to one of the "cool gay cafés" described in my guidebook. Not a chatty place this. I've drunk the coffee, circled destinations in my guidebook, perused the logal expat mags, and am now taking a moment to write this.

Since I got here I have been reluctant to interact (me? I know.) because I feel rude not speaking German. By the looks on their faces, they think so too. The AmEx Travel Office is zero help. No travel assistance, no phones, no directions. Just travelers check service. But I had a good time wandering around Mitte anyway.

I marveled at the baroque architecture, and its juxtaposition with sleek new glass and steel structures. I found many museums, but didn't really feel like browsing exhibits today. I found the library, my kind of attraction, and paid for a day pass (whatever). Heavily under construction, and exceptionally underwhelming. Nashville's blows the lid off this place. So does San Jose's. Unfortunately, no bags or cameras allowed. Also strange (no backpacks and all incoming notebooks/books must be checked in and tagged as non-library materials). Nothing about the Library seemed geared towards user service.

I did find a cool street fair sort of fest near Humbolt University, but it looks set up more for nightlife. There's a cover to get in, and there were artists stalls and lots and lots of drink/food huts, disco lights, and a couple of small stages. It felt like a cramped Nashville City Lights without the music. I had put off eating thinking I would find a cool college venue near Humbolt, but it is really in the city center so there is no feeling of campus or student stuff. I eventually decided getting a bratwurst was an appropriate thing to do. Much nicer club/restuarant setups than the usual stateside street fair. But then again, there was a cover. I got a day pass so maybe Clark and I can hit it tonight before I try to find some fun in the nightlife.

Of course, assuming my luggage has appeared. I am SO lost without a phone. I bought a phonecard, but can't figure out the pay phones. One would think it was (1) insert card (2) dial number. Apparently not. and of course, I can't understand the written or oral instructions. Just have to hope for the best I guess.

The plan is to meet up at Clark's around 7:00. It's been just a nose-around day and fairly uneventful. My guidebooks aren't too helpful for stimulation as the rain puts a damper on tours and such. I think I'll check out a few more neighborhoods and take a disco nap before dinner.

Wish of wishes: has my luggage appeared?