Sarah Abroad

Life in Europe, one visa (and one postcard) at a time.

Bonjour, hallo, hi! I’m Sarah and this is where I document my experience living abroad in Europe as an American. It started over a decage ago with visits to Paris every spring break, each trip its own chapter in my love affair with France (my parents even honeymooned there, and have since retired in the beautiful beach town Canet-Plage in the South of France). Now I’m based in Cologne where I’m navigating visas, job searches, and everything else that comes with starting over compltely in a new country. Through this blog, I share it all: my favorite airbnb stays in Paris, my visa application experience, city guides with the best dining spots, and everything in between.

A Weekend at Steigenberger Icon Grandhotel & Spa Petersberg

Just 40 minutes outside of Cologne, sitting up on top of a hill overlooking the Rhine, is one of the most stunning hotels I’ve stayed at since moving to Germany: the Steigenberger Icon Grandhotel & Spa Petersberg. I went for a weekend getaway, and it delivered on every level. A Grand Arrival From the moment…

First Month in Germany as an American

I flew from America to Germany approximately one month ago, and after 13 job applications and 4 interviews, all I have is an inbox that I refresh every two hours hoping for an update. I feel like I’m waiting for a college admissions decision. The email I’m waiting for could answer a lot of questions.…