Invakanz

“Is there actually a word for this kind of inner conflict that overcomes you when you plan to go on a longer journey, but still have the possibility not to do it? The spirit seems to split in two parts: A courageous and youthful part of the brain that boldly, curiously and adventuresomely wants to break out of familiar conditions. And a risk-averse, convenient and matured part, that would rather anxiously stick to the familiar surroundings. But shortly after I decided to name this self-conscious wanderlust ‘Invakanz’ it disappeared with every step in fresh air like a slight headache.” (Walter Moers: The Labyrinth of Dreaming Books)

I was always driven by this idea that I should go abroad for a longer time at least once before I’m getting old. That means, before I start working and all that stuff. Everybody told me: Take your chances as long as you’re a student, afterwards you won’t have time. No time to what? It sounds like your life is over once you get a serious job. How scary! But I think these people have a point – you will never be that free again in your life. So I actually felt obliged to myself to do this. Not because everybody does it and not because of my career, although the last one is a positive side effect. No, I just wanted to know how it is like living in another country. Maybe I also wanted to prove myself that I am able to do it. But most importantly I love travelling, and if I can’t get out of Germany at least once a year I get really restless. So I organized myself an internship of three months in Budapest, at a German newspaper.  

Three months is not a holiday trip however. Only once I have been abroad for a similar long time. After my graduation I travelled two months through Australia with a friend. It was amazing but we didn’t actually live there, we were just passing through with eyes wide open in wonder. This time it will be different. I know three months may sound like a short period, but for a person like me who just feels whole with family and friends it is a long time. Therefore I was really suffering from “Invakanz” before I came here. (Isn’t it wonderful how books can describe your feelings so much better than anything else? Even with words that don’t exist.) There were times when I thought: “Why the heck do you do this?” And then again I knew I would be angry with myself forever if I didn’t. 

Budapest is where I start this blog, but I hope to continue writing it after my internship is over. There will definitely be other journeys. Basically I will write about things that I consider special in any way. My thoughts about travelling will mix with short stories about interesting activities, but also cultural oddities or funny things I see all over the world. The name I chose for this blog, Alice in Wonderland, is not a coincidence. This title followed me my whole life. When I was a child a was being annoyed when people called me so. But now I see a real connection. 

Like a wonderland the world seems to me every time I travel. I see little wonders around every corner. 
Just keep your eyes open, swipe away any doubts about leaving your safe home and jump into that rabbit-hole! You don't want to be late, don't you?