This is the last call for Nishkal Rao

With everything set, it was time to go. We drove to Bengaluru, where I gathered last-minute items, met cousins, and bid bittersweet farewells. Finally, D-day (or should I say Deutschland day!) arrived. With blessings and friends, family in mind, I was ready. Soon after a hearty meal, I found myself sweating at Dubai International Airport.

I had my personal chauffeur (Shyam mama!) pick me up, and soon I was playing with my adorable cousins, Deethya and Athreya, munching on the delicious food by Vidya mami. We even went to play top golf, where I started terribly but improved to mediocrity over time! After a meal at an Indian restaurant (yes, all the way in Dubai!), it was lights out for a night's sleep. Early morning (at least for me), I was dropped off at the airport for the next leg of my flight to Frankfurt.

Up in the sky again, soaring hundreds of miles away from home. Reality hit as I cleared security and immigration in the country here. From Frankfurt airport, I took a bus to the railway terminal and boarded the high-speed Intercity Express (ICE). It was convenient and stress-free; friendly locals helped me navigate. Little did I know, weekends would be filled with continuous travel for the rest of my trip. I juggled trains and flexed my muscles carrying luggage up stairs (overkill, though there was an elevator).

Nihal had already arrived and was enjoying the scenic resort view. We booked a cab (it is a steep hill to climb) from Jena Paradies, and we entered the home. Ruprecht was off town and had left the keys at the door! Trust in the city was remarkable; everyone minded their own business, true to the liberal ethos!

After unpacking countless boxes incredibly taped by pappa, I had a decent night's sleep post-mediocre local pizza (lesson learned: never order!). The next day, amidst more unpacking, we visited the mart down the hill. Nihal anna taught me to shop smartly and snarkily. Testing my German mixed with English was amusing. With that, university momentarily forgotten, we boarded the regional express (RE) to Hannover from Jena West.

And so, the adventure begins!