My first day in Montpellier was hectic and expensive!
My landlady, and new friend, Gerharda, was kind to show me how to take the bus into town and help me get established. I had to purchase a youth transit pass valid for one year for 245 euros, as well as go grocery shopping. The food here is very expensive, and I spent over 35 euros! We went for lunch at an awesome café in the middle of the city at Place de la Comédie. Then in the afternoon I set up a bank account and tried to get a cellphone (which I can’t get until after I have confirmation of my bank account and funds that can be deducted). I have also still heard nothing from the school I am supposed to be working for, even though I have tried to contact them repeatedly.
On a side note: After living in Vancouver for 5 years, I have gotten accustomed to an awesome transit system, with buses running regulary and on time and a vast Skytrain network. Montpellier is not so fortunate. There has been tram construction for atleast the past 15 years; there are already 2 lines running into the outskirts of town and they are finishing the 3rd early next spring. The big problem with this construction is that it is right in the centre of town, so there are huge traffic jams. The buses get stuck and often two of the exact same bus arrive at the same time (the first one is about 20 minutes late).
