My Spring European Adventure: Sights, Bites, and Insights
Let's rewind the clock and dive into some of the highlights of my recent European adventure. From hopping across vibrant countries to cruising along meandering rivers, here are five moments that added sparkle to my springtime adventure:
Budapest
Apple Strudel Everywhere!
Can we take a moment to appreciate the joy of apple strudel in Hungary, Austria, and Germany? It's safe to say that I indulged in this favorite treat whenever it popped up on the menu. Watching it being lovingly crafted in a cozy Budapest eatery and trying it with various accompaniments was a sweet memory I won't forget.
Vienna
Budapest's Nighttime Charm
Picture this: Budapest's iconic landmarks bathed in the soft glow of night lights as we glided along the Danube on a special evening cruise. The Hungarian Parliament Building, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Mattias Church looked straight out of a fairy tale, casting a spell of enchantment that set the tone for our river adventure.
Hungarian Parliament Building
Pedaling Along the Danube
While I've always been a fan of train journeys in Europe, biking along the Danube from Dürnstein to Melk was a refreshing change of pace. Coasting along through charming villages, passing by budding vineyards, and seeing families picnicking on the shore imbued my trip with a sense of local charm that you just can't get from a train window.
The Danube
Neuschwanstein Castle: A Dreamy Discovery
Visiting the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle was like stepping into a storybook world. The castle's breathtaking beauty and the tales of King Ludwig II of Bavaria added a layer of magic to my European exploration. No wonder it's a source of inspiration for fairy tales!
Schloss Neuschwanstein
Unraveling History and Culture
Beyond the postcard-perfect landscapes, my journey was a deep dive into the histories and cultures of the places I visited. My trip began in Prague, where the Palace flies the Ukrainian flag, supporting Ukraine because the people of Prague fear that if Ukraine falls, they will be next. It was eerie seeing drab, cookie cutter Communist housing in Slovakia and Hungary and hearing stories of how harsh life was under Communist rule. In Austria, it was chilling to see where Hitler stood after the Anschluss, proclaiming the country to be the “newest bastion of the Third Reich.” It’s hard not to be changed by seeing these things.
Vienna
Looking back on this whirlwind of flavors, sights, and stories, I'm grateful for the chance to curate memorable experiences for my clients. Ready to make your travel dreams a reality? Let's chat and start planning your next adventure together!
Prague