During the first weeks after my chaotic start here, I often thought “How terrific is this island anyway?” I am not a nature person – my main interest in La Réunion was due to its unique history as well its current unique situation.

But from the beginning, I was extremely impressed with nature on the island. On my first hike, I noticed the incredible diversity in the forest. I had the impression that every ten minutes I was surrounded by new plants.

During the following short trips, I realized what the island has to offer. There are three basins in the interior, one more impressive than the other. Because there are no roads there, you can only get to the Cirque de Mafate, one of the basins, by walking or by helicopter: almost inconceivable for people living in the city – and beautiful.

The hike through the basin turned out to be a physical and psychological stress test for us because on the second day we had to walk several thousand meters up and down to get back to the car about an hour after sunset.

After that we needed to relax, but there is also plenty to see on the coast: white and black sandy beaches, trees for hammocks, rocky cliffs. In the southeastern part of Reunion Island there is an active volcano with huge lava rock facing toward the sea.

And last but not least, the many breathtaking waterfalls, in whose pools you can bathe in cold, clear water.

So, I have had a few weeks full of adventures. Even if my experiences sound like they came from a travel guide, this was just how I experienced nature here. Going to class temporarily became a relaxing part-time job, until that also became more adventurous – exams started.