GERMANY - MUNICH

As I approach the end of my enriching exchange semester in Munich, I find myself reflecting on the profound transformation that has taken place within me. The theme of our third blog task, "Familiarising the unfamiliar," resonates deeply with my journey. I want to share the story of how a particular cultural practice, initially unfamiliar to me, gradually became a significant part of my life in Munich. This experience not only expanded my intercultural understanding but also brought about a positive change in my self-perception.

When I first arrived in Munich, one aspect of daily life that struck me as unfamiliar was Bavarian cuisine. Living in Liechtenstein, I was accustomed to a different culinary tradition. Due to high prices in restaurants, I was used to the mensa Food at the University or cooking on my own, which is mostly limited to Italian dishes. Whereas in Munich I was starting to eat more regular outside. The hearty and often meat-centric Bavarian dishes seemed foreign. I couldn't help but wonder how I would navigate a food culture so distinct from my own.

My initial encounters with Bavarian cuisine were met with curiosity. The portions were generous, and the flavors were bold and hearty. Dishes like Schweinshaxe (roasted pork knuckle) and Weißwurst (white sausage) left me intrigued but also a bit uncertain about their appeal. Las time I ate them was quite a long time ago. I questioned whether I would ever grow accustomed to this style of eating.

To truly immerse myself in Munich's culture, I knew I needed to embrace its cuisine. I decided to embark on a culinary journey, one dish at a time. I started with the famous Brezeln and gradually moved on to traditional Bavarian meals. It was during this process that I began to understand the heart and soul of Bavarian cuisine.

As I frequented local Bavarian restaurants and engaged in conversations with residents, I discovered the deep-rooted traditions and stories behind each dish. I learned that Bavarian cuisine wasn't just about the food; it reflected the region's history, its connection to the land, and its warm hospitality. Over time, what had initially seemed unfamiliar, and daunting started to feel like a welcoming embrace. It was very easy to consume Bavarian cuisine because the university mensa offered a classic meal almost every day.

Intercultural Learning and Self-Perception

My journey of familiarizing the unfamiliar with Bavarian cuisine has been a profound one. It taught me that embracing new experiences, even those as seemingly simple as trying new foods, is an essential part of intercultural learning. Through food, I gained insights into the Bavarian way of life, their values, and their close-knit communities. I learned that beneath the surface of unfamiliarity often lies a rich tapestry of tradition and history waiting to be explored.

As I prepare to bid farewell to Munich and return to my University in Liechtenstein, I carry with me not only the knowledge gained from textbooks but also the profound lessons learned through real-life experiences. My journey of familiarizing the unfamiliar with Bavarian cuisine has been a powerful testament to the value of cultural exchange and the beauty of embracing the unknown.

Munich has not only become a second home to me but has also been a catalyst for personal growth. It has shown me that the unfamiliar can become familiar with an open heart and a curious mind. It has expanded my understanding of the world and reshaped my selfperception, reminding me that the beauty of life often lies in its diversity and the willingness to explore it. My semester in Munich will forever be a cherished chapter in my life, marked by the evolution from the unfamiliar to the familiar.