Bratislava in Slovakia surprised me. It’s not a city that appears on every travel list, but my desire to see the world always leads me to these random destinations, the ones I end up falling in love with. The city has a serene atmosphere that makes it truly stand out. I arrived without high expectations and discovered a wonderful, welcoming place that invited me to slow down and just enjoy.

One of my fondest memories was the little mission I set for myself, to find the famous Čumil sculpture, also known as “The Man at Work”, that character peeking out of a manhole in the middle of the historic center as if taking a break from the world. I walked down several streets, asked around, got a little lost, and when I finally found him, I couldn’t help but smile. Mission accomplished! It reminded me of that time in Brussels when I wandered all over the city center looking for the Smurfs statue. Back then, my English was a complete disaster, so actually finding it felt like a miracle (if you’re curious, it’s located right in front of the Brussels Comic Strip Museum).

It’s these little details that give a city its personality, making it unique and unforgettable. Another great example is the Manneken Pis in Brussels, that tiny statue so famous and beloved by travelers. Well, Bratislava has that exact same playful charm, turning a simple stroll into a little treasure hunt, a smile, and a memory to last a lifetime.

I sat down right in the heart of the historic center to have a coffee. I ordered a Turecká káva, not yet knowing they would serve me the traditional unfiltered Slovak coffee prepared Turkish-style, and right then and there, a conversation sparked up. I adore those simple moments when you stand out just a bit as the “odd one out” in town, and suddenly, everyone wants to chat with you.

Bratislava also has a very special connection to the Danube, that mighty river linking countries, cultures, and histories along more than 2,800 kilometers. Flowing through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, and Ukraine before reaching the Black Sea, standing before its waters makes you feel part of something much bigger. It was one of those simple moments that stay with you forever.

So, after taking my time to explore the city and soak in its peaceful energy, I caught a bus to Poland the next day toward my destination, Auschwitz.

And that’s how my journey through Central Europe continued.