France is no stranger to bold government reforms and equally bold public responses. Recently, the government decided to increase the retirement age from 62 to 64. Unsurprisingly, this move sparked widespread discontent among union workers, culminating in a nationwide rail strike. For travelers relying on trains, this posed a significant challenge—and we were among them.
Crossing Borders and Finding Shelter
Last Tuesday evening, we began our journey toward the French border with cautious optimism. Our goal was to find a train to Paris despite the strike’s impact. After considering a few alternative routes, we found ourselves in a suburb of Strasbourg, located on the German side of the border. From there, we embarked on a two-mile walk across the border into France.
Our perseverance paid off when we arrived at our night’s accommodation: a modern, bustling hostel. The stylish decor and lively atmosphere provided a welcoming respite after a day of uncertainty. Best of all, we secured a private four-person room, sparing us the challenges of sharing space with strangers.
Crafting a New Plan
Faced with the ongoing rail disruptions, Johannes and Titus devised a clever workaround. The new itinerary involved heading south to Naples, taking a ferry from Rome to Barcelona, and finally attempting to re-enter France during the last leg of our trip. While unconventional, it offered a way to keep our journey moving forward.
Exploring Strasbourg’s Charms
We dedicated Wednesday to exploring Strasbourg, a city that seamlessly blends French and German influences. One of the highlights was the Notre Dame de Strasbourg, an awe-inspiring cathedral that dominates the city’s skyline. The architecture, reminiscent of the famed Notre Dame de Paris but on a smaller scale, features intricate flying buttresses and breathtaking views from the top. Standing there, overlooking the picturesque town, was an experience beyond words.
Strasbourg’s culinary offerings also left a lasting impression. We indulged in macarons filled with creamy gelato, buttery madeleines, and other delectable treats that showcased the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. It was a day well spent in a city full of charm and history.
Onward to Rome
As I write this, we’re pulling into Rome station, ready to embark on the next chapter of our adventure. Stay tuned for part three of this travel saga, where we’ll share more stories from our journey through Europe.