Discovering Slovakia: A Journey Through the Heart of Europe
There are places that simply invite you to visit, and then there are places that quietly capture your heart. Right now, I am traveling through Slovakia, country filled with mountains, charming villages, rich traditions, and some interesting interactions with people I have ever had.
My journey begins in Minnesota, while my cousin Cindi travels from Michigan to join me. Together, we fly to Paris, France, and then continue on to Vienna, Austria, where our Slovak adventure begins. From there, we are spending most of the trip exploring a large portion of Slovakia before ending our journey back in Paris.
One of the most meaningful parts of this trip is spending time with my uncle Jake, who has lived in Slovakia for about 30 years. Over those years, he has built a life here and formed many lasting friendships. We are meeting the friends he has gathered throughout the years, along with many of the people he has come to know through living and working in Slovakia.
Instead of simply visiting tourist destinations, we are experiencing Slovakia through Jake’s life and relationships. We are sharing meals with family and friends, listening to stories, learning about local customs, visiting castles, traveling through cities and villages, and seeing much of the Slovak countryside along the way.
This trip is becoming much more than a sightseeing adventure. It is a chance to connect with family, meet the people who have been part of Jake’s life, and experience Slovakia through the eyes of someone who has called it home for three decades.
Throughout this series, I will be sharing the places we visit, the castles and historic sites we explore, the food we enjoy, and the landscapes that make Slovakia such a beautiful part of Europe. I will also share some of the herbs and simple wellness practices I am using to support better sleep, recover from jet lag, maintain regular bowel movements, support my immune system, stay hydrated, and feel my best while traveling.
Whether you are planning a trip, curious about Slovakia, or simply enjoy following along from home, I hope these stories help you feel like you are traveling with us.
Thank you for joining me on this adventure as we experience Slovakia, spend time with Uncle Jake, meet the people who have shaped his life here, and create memories that will stay with us long after the trip is over.