Weekend Trip to Slovakia

On September 19th, I hopped on a train and visited Bratislava, SIovakia. I had heard that it was a cute little city to visit. I never imagined that I would completely fall in love with it.
Throughout the relaxing two-hour train ride, I enjoyed views of the Hungarian countryside. This was my first trip outside of the Budapest, and it was wonderful to see so many trees! I have missed trees. I needed a break from the busy city.

We arrived in Bratislava Friday evening. When you arrive in Bratislava, the train station that awaits you is pretty grim, to say the least. Slovakia may have embraced (or endured) Communist concrete more than the Hungarians. No, I did not take a picture, but I’ll let your imagination create the pretty image.
Fortunately, our hostel was located only a short walk away from the Old Town.

Much better.

We spent the night exploring the city and devouring Slovakian goulash (which might be better than Hungarian goulash. Yeah I said it).

It doesn’t look like much, but it was amazing.

Their menu descriptions need some work though.

Mmm. Lumpy cheese.

We then spent the night enduring awkward conversations with our somewhat creepy roommate. Oh, hostels. Always an adventure.

The next morning we went on a free walking tour. Our tour guide, Dominika, was very knowledgable, and I learned quite a bit about Slovakian/Hungarian history. For example, did you know that Bratislava used to be the capital of Hungary? Neither did I.

-Some highlights from the tour-
A cannonball embedded in a church tower. Thanks, Napoleon.

This view of the medieval Michael’s Gate.

And last but not least, The Blue Church. This is without a doubt, my favorite church. I need to put my name on the already very long wedding list.

After the walking tour, we did our own exploring of the area around St. Martin’s Cathedral, and of Bratislava Castle.

Check out the beautiful view of Old Town.

What’s on the other side of the river?

A jigsaw puzzle of Communist apartment buildings; my personal idea of Hell. That spaceship monstrosity is called the UFO Bridge.

On Saturday night, we joined a hostel pub crawl. We paid 13 euros for a night of endless beers and new friends. We met some great Brits, Germans, Chileans, and Mexicans. I hope they keep in touch! This was probably the most fun that I have had since I arrived in Europe.

Somehow we survived the night, and made it to Sunday morning. We then gathered ourselves together, and took a bus to Devin’s Castle. The castle ruins date back to the Stone Age. It was a truly beautiful sight.