First impressions

Dresden is a city that embodies the symbolism of the phoenix; it has emerged out of the ashes to become a vibrant, cultural, and beautiful city. In case you don't remember your history, Dresden was heavily bombed in WWII, as it was a Nazi stronghold and at the time, it made strategic sense for the Allies to do so. All of the Altstadt (Old Town) was destroyed and most of the surrounding areas, including the Neustadt (New Town, which is only 600 years new, by the way). It's hard to reconcile Dresden's history to its present, having met so many nice people; it's difficult not to feel sad about the lost physical history here despite knowing that it was probably necessary to bomb it during WWII. I may never make sense of it all, but I will continue to learn and study this fascinating city.

I have visited a few museums and have talked to a few of the locals about Dresden's history. What impresses me most is the individual efforts of so many to rebuild Dresden as it was once upon a time. The greatest of these feats is the Frauenkirche, which was lovingly rebuilt by the people of Dresden and other countries around the world. I was moved to tears when I went through a special exhibition about the Frauenkirche and I saw everything from people carefully removing any preserved stone from the rubble to grandmothers putting in their pension pay to help rebuild this amazing church. They are also still rebuilding parts of the Altstadt, even today.

As for everyday life here, the cost of living is low, the food is excellent, and I'm told this is the best city in the world to be in during the spring and summer. There are Biergartens aplenty and many opportunities to bask in the sun on the banks of the Elbe or make use of the many bike trails. There are 42 museums in and around Dresden to see -- plenty to occupy my time and money. Most of them are about 2-3€, with the greatest exception being the Grunes Gewolbe at 10€, which I have yet to see... will post more about it once I have.

After having lived and struggled in Paris, it's nice to live in a European city that I can afford! I can have a Bratwurst mit broetchen for 1-2€ (sausage with a little bread), delightful pastries for less than 2€, and fresh bread that lasts me 3-4 days for less than 3€. The monthly tram is 38€, compared to the whopping 115€ I paid in Paris (I also traveled much beyond the city center there...). Oh, and we mustn't forget the beer! For about 2,50€, I can enjoy some of the best beer in the world! (And I had always considered myself a wine girl...)

I am appreciating the rich culture and history of Dresden, as well as enjoying a low cost of living. I am learning German a little every day and am looking forward to what else the city holds in store for me!