Zilina, here we come

Day 4:

We just bid farewell to Bratislava. This morning we checked out of our hotel and headed over to the train station early by taxi to make sure the train passes we pre-ordered online from EuropeRail would not have a problem when being validated. Of course, they didn't because EuropeRail is a renowned mode of purchasing train tickets/passes for Europe, and it took us all of approximately 5 minutes to validate our passes and for the ticket man to wish us a great time in Slovakia. We had already grabbed a bite to eat at the hotel, since breakfasts were included, before checking out so all we had to do was wait for our train. Which is what I am on now, the train, and it is definitely the best way to travel from city-to-city in Slovakia and even elsewhere in Europe because of it's eco-friendly aspect, it's time saving, very budget friendly, and it is great for scenic routes. After our own scenic ride we are making our way to check in at The Best Western Palace Hotel Polon which is in the heart of Zilina. We cannot wait to explore Marianske Namestie, the center of the town and we have heard so much about it from friends and other travelers. This area is known to be filled with burgher houses from the early eras, and of course is dominated by the Church of St Paul the Apostle which takes up most of the square because of it's tall pointed towers along with the baroque statue of the Virgin Mary that has been part of this city for centuries. We're almost in Zilina, I can see the mountain ranges forming and the town ahead, time for another fun filled experience.

Bratislava in depth

Day 3:

Thankfully, we had the pleasure of being picked up directly from our hotel to begin our day tour of the city. Not to mention it was in the comfort of a mini-bus with a great English speaking guide that is a local of Bratislava. First stop was the Opera House. Just by standing in front of it, you can feel the European vibes from the architecture which dates back to 1886 and holds many famous opera performances (we took a mental note to try and fit in some time to catch a performance). Our next stops were to the Government and Presidential Palaces which of course were beautiful landmarks to the government elite of the city. Another palace visited was the Primate's Palace followed by visiting the Main Square and Old Town Hall, along with the beautiful St Martin's Cathedral and St Michel's Gate.

But I must admit my favorite part of this 4 hour tour was visiting the 2 castles of the city. First there was the Bratislava Castle which is a massive rectangular building with 4 pointed corner towers, and is situated atop a rocky, isolated hill. What a fantastic view this castle gives! First, you get a great view of the Danube and Morava rivers, and secondly we were lucky to get great weather and be able to have a fantastic view of Austria and Hungary all at once. Now the second castle, The Devin Castle, is mostly ruins left from the 13th century and is also situated along a cliff to give a great view of the rivers, and if we were back in those days, to watch for intruders coming to attack the town! What a wonderful day it's been, it is time for us to go pick up some dinner and call it a night for our journey tomorrow.

Welcome to Bratislava part 2

Day 2 (Continued)

The hotel is quite large, with great room amenities that we almost accidentally spent all afternoon in our room. Though, we finally managed to leave for our walk around the city and we just came back up from a great evening out on the town. We decided to check our recommendations list for a place to grab some food. This led us to come across this great little local restaurant tucked away from the larger streets, called Slovenska Restaurant and it was within walking distance. It was the perfect way to step right into their culture, by tasting their local cuisine for a great price. We ordered a variety of small entrees which included vegetables and cheeses, and for our main course we decided to order 'Bryndzové halušky' (potato dumplings with sheeps milk cheese). This restaurant really made me realize that we were actually finally on vacation. From the soft folk background music that represents the Slovak history, to the welcoming and colorful décor which represented their culture perfectly. Afterward, we headed over to a recommended underground jazz club, Metro Club, for a quiet night of live music, which is a very well known form of entertainment between the locals. I must admit,this was a beautiful way to spend our first night in Bratislava.

Welcome to Bratislava

Day 2:

Wow, I am utterly amazed so far with this country and I still have barely experienced anything it has to offer just yet. As for the flight, it turned out just fine, I thought it might seem long but the in plane movies kept us entertained, as well as a much needed nap once our excitement wore off and the tiredness kicked in. We were slightly disappointed to have such short connection times in Paris and Prague, since it did not allow us to leave the airports, but one day we’ll be able to explore those areas as well. The only thing on our mind was finally arriving into Bratislava. We landed into Bratislava, which is Slovakia's capital city, and got through the whole airport process faster then expected. I must admit I was surprised that the airport was slightly more modernized then I pictured it to be for such a small country, but it is still not as modern as our Montreal airport. Transportation to the hotel was easily accessible by a taxi we called up that was recommended on our list, and we checked in without a problem to The Mamaison Residence Sulekova Bratislava. The staff seems very welcoming and I had a chance to spot a few of the visitors staying in my hotel as well. It ranged from families, to business workers. Oh how I love variety, and the fact that the hotel is within very easy access of central Bratislava was an extreme bonus. Well seeing as how the rest of the day is to leisure we figured we would take the time to unwind and relax a little in the hotel before venturing out into town for an evening stroll.

Journey Begins

Day 1:
Presently, I am sitting in the Montreal Trudeau Airport. I've been surfing the internet ever since I got past check-in and security to settle in for the wait at my boarding gate while a friend of mine wandered off to shop. I can't even begin to explain my excitement for this trip, it has always been my dream to visit Slovakia and now it's finally MY summer to do so, and I am proud to say I am lucky enough to share this experience with a good friend of mine. I just felt a little flutter of anxiousness when I looked out the window to see my Air France plane lock into its spot to prepare for our 13.5 hour journey, and when I realized it is 4pm. We're only an hour away from departure time, so it's time for me to bid my farewell to home and wave hello to a whole new country full of new experiences. Talk to you all tomorrow afternoon!