We finally land in Paris after a long overnight flight.
Long flights have never been my favorite part of traveling. The lack of movement, fresh air, and personal space is hard on my body. While I no longer experience the anxiety I used to have when flying, I still don’t enjoy being confined for so many hours. My knees are pressed against the seat in front of me, and there’s simply not enough room to stretch out. I remind myself that it’s all part of the journey, and every mile in the air brings us closer to the adventure ahead.
Thankfully, everything else about the flight goes very smoothly. Time passes more quickly than I expect. I even watch a few movies—something I almost never do! The flight crew is kind and attentive, making the experience as comfortable as possible.
Our landing in Paris is smooth, and before long we’re making our way through one of Europe’s busiest airports.
Charles de Gaulle Airport is… an adventure in itself.
The airport is large, confusing, and not nearly as easy to navigate as Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, which has definitely set a high standard in my mind. Thankfully, whenever we look a little lost, the French people are patient and willing to point us in the right direction. Even without speaking much French, we eventually find our way.
After taking a train to another terminal, we settle in for a long wait before our next flight to Vienna, Austria. We arrive far too early to check in, leaving us with several hours to pass. Exhausted from the overnight flight, Cindi and I take turns catching short naps while the other keeps an eye on our luggage.
Unfortunately, there aren’t any restaurants or coffee shops in the area where we’re waiting, and our layover isn’t quite long enough to comfortably leave the airport and make it back through security. So we wait, people-watch, rest whenever we can, and dream about finally arriving in Slovakia.
Eventually, it’s time to board our final flight. Compared to the overnight journey across the Atlantic, the flight to Vienna feels quick. Before we know it, we’re descending over the beautiful Austrian countryside and touching down in Vienna.
As we walk out of the terminal, there’s Uncle Jake waiting for us with a big smile. After months of planning, it’s wonderful to finally see him. We load our luggage, hop on a bus, and begin the drive to Bratislava, Slovakia. Crossing another international border is surprisingly simple, and before long we arrive at our accommodations.
After unloading our bags and taking a few minutes to freshen up, we head out on foot toward what the locals simply call the Old Town. The evening air is comfortable—a welcome surprise after the intense European heat wave that ended just a few days before we arrived.
Our first meal in Slovakia is exactly what I hoped for. We find a cozy restaurant and order a hearty soup that I would describe as a sausage and cabbage soup. Rich, flavorful, and comforting after nearly two days of travel, it is the perfect introduction to Slovak cuisine.
With full stomachs, we wander through the streets of Bratislava, passing beneath Michael’s Gate (Michalská brána) and into the heart of the Old Town. The historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and lively atmosphere immediately make me feel like I’ve stepped into another time. People are strolling through the squares, outdoor cafés are still buzzing with conversation, and the city has an energy that feels both relaxed and welcoming.
We spend a while simply walking, talking, and soaking it all in. After two days of airports, airplanes, buses, and very little sleep, exhaustion finally catches up with us. We head back, grateful to have officially arrived, and quickly crash for the night.
Tomorrow, the real Slovak adventure begins.
Historical Information: Michael’s Gate (Michalská brána)
Michael’s Gate is the only surviving medieval gate from Bratislava’s original fortification system and one of the city’s most treasured landmarks. Built around 1300, it served as the northern entrance into the walled city, protecting residents for centuries. The gate was later topped with its distinctive Baroque tower in the 18th century, crowned by a statue of St. Michael defeating the dragon, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Today, visitors can walk beneath the same archway that merchants, travelers, and soldiers once used to enter the city. Passing through Michael’s Gate into the charming cobblestone streets of Old Town felt like stepping back in time and offered a glimpse into Bratislava’s rich medieval history.
Bratislava’s Historic Old Town
Bratislava’s Historic Old Town is the heart of the city and one of its most charming areas. Dating back to medieval times, its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, hidden courtyards, and lively squares reflect centuries of history. Surrounded by the original city walls, the Old Town was once the center of commerce, government, and daily life.
Many of the city’s most important landmarks are found here, including Michael’s Gate, the Old Town Hall, St. Martin’s Cathedral, and numerous churches, palaces, and cafés. During the 16th through 18th centuries, Bratislava—then known as Pressburg—served as the coronation city of the Kingdom of Hungary, with 11 kings and 8 queens crowned in St. Martin’s Cathedral.
Today, the Historic Old Town beautifully blends its rich history with modern life. Street musicians, outdoor cafés, local shops, and historic architecture create a welcoming atmosphere that makes it one of the most enjoyable places to explore on foot. Walking its winding streets, it is easy to imagine what life was like hundreds of years ago while enjoying the vibrant energy of the city today.
Ayurveda Travel Notes – The Journey
Long flights increase Vata, the Ayurvedic dosha associated with movement, dryness, and the nervous system. After many hours in dry cabin air with limited movement, it’s common to feel stiff, dehydrated, tired, constipated, or mentally scattered.
Today my focus is simple: drink plenty of water, move whenever I can, eat nourishing foods, and allow my body time to adjust. Traveling well isn’t about feeling perfect every day—it’s about giving your body the support it needs so you can fully enjoy the adventure.
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