Germany was an educative journey. It helped understand different cultures. At the Düsseldorf youth hostel, the window view was incredible; with the Rheine tower in the distance. The city stood breathtakingly across the bridge. There was the Rheine River flowing right beneath it; with a host of ships that had to go under it to get across to the other side. The streets in Germany were extremely clean. The buildings looked superb. There were tram tracks all over the city, as well fancy cars.

The Germans were polite and helped whenever we couldn’t find our way around the city. The Goethe Institute brought together students from all over the world: Taiwan; Egypt; Togo; Rwanda; India; Uzbekistan; Mexico; Thailand; Scotland; Germany to name a few. On the weekends the Goethe Institute would take us to see all the important tourist spots. We went to see ancient castles, T.V towers, the Rheine tower, the movie park and the carnival across the hostel. There would be classes for us everyday after breakfast, which would last three hours, with a break in between. Our German classes were fun. The teacher was very kind and full of life. We had project work after lunch. In the evenings the students were allowed to take part in different activities such as the Disco (everyone’s favourite), with a dance competition at the end of the course, karaoke, boxing, basketball, football and then some more. We were given special professional coaching for the sport activity we chose.

THE RHEINE TOWER'S

THE 'IN' CLASS

The highlight of the hour was the presentations on one’s country for the benefit of all from varied cultures. Our group, Ankith; Soo Min and self on tabla, shared our country India’s rich cultural heritage. All the presentations were just as good, the Taiwan presentation was the best, a rib tickler!

Here’s to Germany a soulful rendezvous!

Nikhil Jude

Grade 10 IGCSE