How to get settled

Step 1: Acquire Driver's License
My first souvenir. Useful (even if you don't have a car) as proof of address, idenification (so you don't have to bring your passport to the bar),etc.

Step 2: Cell Phone
I brought mine from home and just got a new sim card. Plans are not as generous (cheap) as in the US. Avoid international 'phone calls' all together by using Skype.

Step 3: Figure out how to navigate buses
See other blog post. As an addendum, I've since learned that sometimes the system is broken and you get free bus rides. And other times, you end up paying extra because the system breaks in the middle and you can't scan your card as you get off the bus. I guess it all balances out in the end.

Step 4: Find a yoga studio/running route/means to relax
I run along the path by the beach. There are always tons of fit people running/walking/playing. I also have started doing yoga on a somewhat regular basis (2x week). During class, I often feel clumsy, inflexible, and overweight. I'm just glad they don't have mirrors in the studio! But, I continue going because of the feeling after class. I feel relaxed, revived, and just wonderful in general. I also found a community pool so I can continue training for tri's.

Step 5: Classes/Uni
Ick! Setting up my schedule was super easy thanks to the University having a very thorough website. It's almost too much info though. Acquiring books is a hassle as they don't believe in used books and so there's usually a new edition of books for each year. This means paying full price. Finding motivation to go to class is a tough one. Especially when it involves catching a bus for 30-45 minutes. And then there's the fact that profs here post powerpoint slides summing up the lectures.

Step 6: Go to New Zealand-immediately!
This only applies to those of us who have issues with getting visas on time.

Step 7: Find a Place to Live
For normal people, this is Step 1. I was fortunate enough to be able to stay with a friend and take my time finding a place. After looking through classifieds and ads on campus, I found a place on the street next to the beach. I can check the waves from the living room windows and bask in the sun on the couch on the lanai. Perfect!

Step 8: Find a Job (Haven't done this one yet)
Not originally on my list, this is quickly becoming a necesity if I want to continue to eat and drink.

Step 9: Buy a bike (Haven't gotten to this one either)
I see cyclists all the time. I've got to get on this so I can continue training....

Step 10: I couldn't end the list at #9
So what comes next? Making friends (with cars) and traveling!! Enjoying my last 5 months as a student.