This week, my classes at Ulster University were very interesting. In my business class, we learned differences between fair and free trade. Fair Trade Federation is the trade association that strengthens and promotes North American organizations fully committed to fair trade. Free trade occurs when a government does not attempt to influence what its citizens buy or sell to another country. We also talked a lot about our government and all that is happening currently.
In my Irish studies course, we learned about the independent movement between the Protestants and Catholics. The Catholics were considered nationalists who wanted to preserve their Irish heritage by keeping their Gaelic language and keeping the country unified. The Protestants were considered loyalists who wanted Northern Ireland as part of the UK. It is crazy to think that these tensions still remain today.
During the weekend, I traveled to Amsterdam. On Saturday we went on a canal tour of the beautiful city and saw the intricate and historic architecture that makes Amsterdam what it is today. The buildings almost looked like they were lopsided or about to fall over because they were built on sand. We then went on the Heineken experience, where we learned how the beer came to be and how it is made. Everywhere you go in Amsterdam, you can find a Heineken! Our next stop was the notorious ice bar, where we had the opportunity to go in a room that was 10 degrees Fahrenheit and drink out of ice cups. We had to wear jackets and gloves just to be able to stand in there for 20 minutes.
Everywhere I went, there were “coffeeshops” that had marijuana. Amsterdam is much more open to drugs compared to the United States. The most eye-opening experience we had was when we visited the Red-Light District. This was very different from what I am used to, but I am happy I had the opportunity to witness the oldest city in Amsterdam. The city of Amsterdam was so amazing and modern, but at the same time so historic. This country was very diverse, and the locals were very nice. I felt very safe compared to what I experienced in Paris. The last day, we just walked around and explored more of the city. This city never sleeps, and I am so happy I got to experience another awesome place in Europe!