Lately, catching up has been a theme in my life—whether it’s dealing with a stubborn foot injury or taking moments to stop and truly absorb my surroundings. Now feels like the right time to bring you up to speed on where this journey has taken us.
Heading to Rome
We’ve just boarded a train bound for Rome after spending an unforgettable morning on Mount Vesuvius. Outside the train’s windows, the verdant fields and sprawling greenhouses of southern Italy blur past, while mountains rise on one side, cloaked in patchy clouds, and the sea occasionally reveals itself on the other. Soon, we’ll leave the coastal plains behind as we venture inland, surrounded by towering peaks.
A Day in Hamburg
Before Italy, our travels took us to Hamburg, where we enjoyed a quintessentially German morning with Johannes’s grandmother and aunt. Over a leisurely breakfast—and a few cups of tea for me—we savored fresh breads and prepared sandwiches for the road. From there, we set out to explore the city.
The Hamburger Rathaus (Hamburg City Hall) was a highlight. This grand, ornate building exudes the kind of old-world charm that feels uniquely German. As we wandered the streets, we encountered Hamburg’s warehouse district, an area with towering brick buildings that rise straight from the river. These structures, with their strategically placed loading doors, hint at the city’s industrial past while offering a picturesque view of the water.
Later, we stumbled upon a solemn yet striking sight: a church reduced to its spire and a paved square after being bombed during World War II. Despite the devastation, the spire remains intact, a resilient reminder of the city’s history. Visitors can climb it during tourist season for panoramic views of Hamburg.
When Plans Change
After Hamburg, our original plan was to head to Paris. However, the realities of France’s ongoing rail strikes led us to reconsider. The disruptions forced us to adapt, but as with all great journeys, flexibility became part of the adventure.
Stay tuned for the next chapter of our travels, as we continue to navigate Europe’s landscapes and surprises.