Random Musings

So  this is just a collection of random observations and musings I've had since I got over here.

• In general people keep their cars much cleaner here than in the US, both inside and outside. Someone told me it is due to stringent inspection laws here, someone else told me it was that to a European, a car is a symbol of pride, and many people spend lavish attention on their cars, either way I found it interesting.
• Another car–related note: since coming over here I have seen exactly one car with an automatic transmission, and that was the large van for the school. Everyone drives manuals here, which I think is great! One of my friends found it amazing that I knew how to drive a manual. He said he would never drive an automatic, that a manual is much more fun to drive. It seems that many more Europeans seem to enjoy driving, whereas many Americans seem to see it as a necessary chore, which might explain the difference. 
• The windows here are ingenious! There are three handle positions, with one locking the window closed, the second allowing it open fully, like a door. The third position allows the window to pivot open from the top, giving you an opening of about 12-16cm at the top, which is perfect if you want to cool your room off without blowing all the papers off your desk.
• Many new buildings are built with glass curtain walls that have large panels that swing or slide open, allowing something close to an open air experience on nice days. This is quite nice, especially in church when it gets warmer in the sanctuary.
• A two hour drive is a veerrry long drive to many of my European friends. To me this is afternoon drive.
• Many buildings here have very thick walls, which according to one person lowers heating and cooling costs. 

Anyway, that's all for now, just some random tidbits I've found interesting. Cheers!