Slovakia

Location: Bratislava, Slovakia

Travel Time: June 21-23, 2014

After saying goodbye to our dear friends in Berlin, we took an overnight train to Bratislava, Slovakia. This was the second overnight train of our trip. I must say this ride was a little more comfortable because we actually had a sleeping cabin. There were 6 ‘bunk-beds’ in our cabin. An older couple was on the first level, Tj and I on the second level and then the couple’s granddaughters were on the top level. I personally didn’t mind because I am a very heavy sleeper. I simply plugged in my headphones, listened to some music and fell fast asleep. Tj on the other hand had a much harder time. Not to mention, someone decided to smoke on the train in the middle of the night setting off all the alarms. Needless to say, he did not sleep well. I would recommend the overnight train but if you are a light sleeper, I would definitely invest in a first class cabin. When it was all said and done, we arrived in Bratislava at 6:00am. Our dear friend Humberto was there to pick us up so we had no problem with transportation. We arrived at his house just a few minutes away from the train station where he and his wife Andrea warmly offered up a spot for us to catch up on some sleep. After a quick nap, we were ready to see the town.

Our bunk beds on the overnight train from Berlin to Slovakia.

Tj playing with Mia after a quick cat-nap.

Having been friends with Humberto and Andrea here in Chicago, it was nice to catch up since it had been some years since they had moved away. Since then, they had a young daughter Mia and at the time we’re currently pregnant with their second child. Andrea is originally from Bratislava, so we had the perfect tour guide to show us around. Our first stop was to visit their congregation. They are part of the English congregation so Tj and I had no problem fitting in. Afterward, a lovely couple serving in their congregation from the United States invited us over for a rooftop barbecue at their house. It was so nice to just sit back and take in such an awesome view.

The Kingdom Hall in Slovakia.

Tj handling the grill.

Having a rooftop barbeque with some of the friends in Slovakia.

The next day, we headed out for the city. First, we headed to this nice shopping area that was just off the Danube river. It was so nice seeing the friends with the public witnessing carts; Jehovah’s work is certainly being done everywhere we go! Next, we passed some old historical buildings and slowly started making our way to the top of Bratislava where the famous castle can be found. From the top of the castle, you can see a beautiful view of Bratislava, Austria and Hungary. Definitely burned some calories climbing to the top but it was well worth it.

Spotted some public witnessing carts!

Tj taking in the view.

We spent some more time walking around and taking in the beautiful historic architecture. We also caught up with some more friends like Rosena and Lucas; while also meeting some new friends. And of course, we had to try some of the local meals. I highly recommend the pork knuckle with a side of sheep’s cheese. Honestly, one of the best meals we had on our trip!

The famous Pork Knuckle

Sheep’s cheese with a little bacon on top.

If you ever plan a trip to Vienna, Austria, then be sure to take the 45 minute train ride out to Bratislava. It will be well worth it. The prices were reasonable, the people are friendly and the scenery was beautiful. Our next stop? You guessed it… Athens, Greece! But don’t worry. We’ll be back in Bratislava. And sooner than you think!