globalization, live and in the flesh

Hello, hello!

Well, the first week has been completed. Not an easy task by any means. Currently I have laundry hanging across the entire "flat". Not only is this interesting because my underwear is draped for all to see but also this is interesting because I, in fact, did my own laundry. IN A SINK. Oh that this constitutes a note of achievement in a blog about my time in Europe.

Last night I was feeling kinda down so a bunch of us went to a bar near the Kolej. After 2/3 of a beer I decided that I really am NOT a beer drinker, no matter how cheap it really is. This was a good discovery. Also, I am again amazed at how people can drink EVERYWHERE. School. The Street. It's madness!

Ah yes, what does this have to do with globalization you may be thinking. Well friends, the answer is nothing. But I will mention that there are copious amounts of McDonalds and KFC's (of all things) out and about in this city. These are pretty much the only chain restaurants (if you can dignify them with that term) that exist over here. Everything else is precious and a one time shot. Also, I heard the black eyed peas singing from within a store today. Granted it was in this really touristy area--(Wensceles Square- probably not spelt right--huge though, kind of like a Times Square, oh when oh when will I get to New York???) The thing about this though, is that it's for the tourists. I know there are those that believe this rash of americanization is going to wipe out other cultures but to me it seems that this is not a huge problem. Culture here is an actual thing. People have traditions and a history that is almost unfathomable for a north America that started in like, the 17th century. There are still buildings here from before years were written with four digits!

The disconcerting thing, however, is the commodification of this culture. I have such a cynical view of tourism right now and perhaps its just the communications student in me but its true. The number of tour groups and ignorant americans I've seen thus far who buy the "cultural experience" that fits their version of Prague is ridiculous. But in essence, thats what tourism is. Little shops and sights set up to serve those who are buying a "Czech cultural experience". Signs on restaurants advertising "authentic Czech cuisine". What is "authentic"? This whole concept is just so fake to me. It's like a cultural theme park, which more and more people continually buy into. And this is not to say that I am any different. I've sought out the only North American food on the menu (french fries- never underestimate their value). I've taken pictures of the castle and the bridge and the buidling and the cobblestone streets. I've ridden the metro with "actual Czech people", all the while feeling as though I have a good grip on "this whole Prague thing".
The thing is, the only "authentic" culture you can really experience is the one you grew up in. And as a homesick Canadian girl, thousands of miles from home...well, that sounds damn fine to me.