Code 3? Nein Danke

Today, a few of us Americans went with our Germans to Wandsee, a lake with free public access. We were all very excited to go swimming and beat the heat, and we experienced that and more. While we walked down the beach, we saw a variety of people and animals. From young children to horses, there were all kinds. Yes, I said horses. They were in the lake, up to their necks. 

Before we came to Europe, our teacher warned us about nudity and how it was a regular thing. We can now say with full certainty that our teacher knew exactly what she was talking about. To us Americans, the lack of dressing rooms and privacy was a big deal, but not to the natives. They were changing everywhere and we weren't quite sure what to think about that. As if seeing others do it wasn't enough of an experience, we also had to do it. In addition to the lack of changing, many of the natives chose their birthday suit instead of a swim suit as a more suitable suit. 

As we entered the water, it was very rocky and we had our doubts about even swimming at all. After we walked further and got past the rocks, we encountered sand and actually enjoyed our waist deep water for about two hours. 

To say it was a life changing experience may be pushing it a bit, but seeing approximately 25 people naked and swimming in a lake with horses isn't an everyday occurrence for most Americans. In all, we had a fun day and can say that we have yet again truly experienced German culture. 

Writers: Cece McClellan, Caroline Begley, Valerie Blakely, & Sarah Homoky