It’s officially been 2 weeks since the start of classes. I can’t believe it’s already been so long! These 2 weeks have been spent getting to know my flat mates, exploring cool areas in Dunedin, and relaxing and feeling out my classes, after all – I’m not here on vacation, no matter how much it may feel that way!
So far I have been to an absolutely beautiful beach in Dunedin called Tunnel Beach and a Rugby game. Tunnel beach is about a 30 minute bus ride away – it has spectacular rock formations and you can just sit and enjoy the view of the ocean below! We brought lunch (peanut butter and jelly sandwich anyone) and just sat and took in the view, while trying not to freeze! I was super disappointed that we didn’t get to see any penguins or sea lions, but apparently you have to go to the more isolated beaches for that. We also got to go to a rugby game last weekend! It was such a cool experience to be able to witness a sporting event that is so valued in this country. The Otago team – the Highlanders – won! I had never seen a rugby game live and, to be honest, I liked it better than football!
As for Dunedin itself, it really is such a cool place, the people are so kind, the city is small yet there is always something to do, there are so many cool places / hikes / beaches to explore (so much left to do) in the area, and the university life is so fun!! I could not imagine a better place to call my home for the rest of the semester. Here, they call cool Dunedin pictures or views dunner stunners, so here’s to hoping that I will get many of those.
Although Dunedin is great, we are already starting to plan trips to the surrounding areas – I am so excited for what’s to come!