Early
on the 17 August, my friend Rozi, partner Ben and I set off for
Bristol airport. The sat nav took us through towering hedges on
country lanes. I relished this snippet of home, reminder of Devon,
before I headed off.
2 60+ litre backpacks, one bicycle and a
tote bag is the extent of what I am taking to Sweden with me as I
study for an MSc. It started well at the airport as the staff could
immediately see my inability to carry this alone! Rozi and Ben had
already retreated for the journey back due to restrictions at the
airport due to Covid, making it look like the scene from the start of ET, and a new heinous parking fee for drop offs.
With my bike Bella, I got to see the inner
workings of the baggage sorter as the pleasant staff checked that I
wasn't trying to smuggle drugs in my pannier. Overall, the airport
experience was smooth except for one woman on a power trip at the
gate who really wanted everyone to repack all of their luggage.
The
flight was surprisingly busy and I am now being super careful in case
I caught anything on the flight. Hand washing, steering clear of
group events,trying my best not to touch my face and eating and drinking healthily.
Met an older chap at Copehagen airport who said, I believe, that he was from Iraq. He was excited to tell me that he was returning to Malmo. I've heard great things about Malmo and it was great to meet one of their residents. He asked if I needed help with putting my bike back together which I declined. Next time I looked up, he has disappeared on his way.
The Lund university ambassadors were all fantastic, friendly and forthcoming with help. I made it all the way to my new flat without straining myself too much! There were trains, coaches and mini vans on hand to make sure everyone reached their destination.
Arrived at my new home in the early evening; shown the way from the start of the block by my landlady's friend who lives nearby. Quick stop into Lidl for food and then inside to settle in.
