Dinner with Mum, Stary Sącz, Poland, May 2025

After several unforgettable weeks travelling through Poland, Malta, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Slovakia, Czechia, and Portugal, it’s time to return to Caracas. These final days of the trip have been filled with quiet emotion—meals with Mum, farewell walks through Nowy Sącz, a last visit to Paweł and Kasia, and a perfect pause in Lisbon before boarding the flight back to Venezuela.

Yesterday, Mum and I had our last meal together in a small restaurant in Stary Sącz. The atmosphere was peaceful, the conversation warm, both of us trying to savour every moment before goodbye. We wandered through town afterwards, soaking in the spring air and that soft melancholy that always comes with parting.

These last days were filled with small rituals: shopping for a few last things, one more stop by the river, sitting on our favourite bench in the sun. The ordinary became sacred simply because it was shared.

But this journey wasn't only about goodbyes. It’s been a spring rich with discovery and joy.

🇵🇱 Poland: Our time in Poland was deeply grounding. From the charming spa town of Krynica-Zdrój to the familiar comforts of Nowy Sącz, it felt good to slow down and be home. We explored Kraków during Constitution Day, wandered through Wawel, and shared long lunches in the old town. Spring in Poland is always special—alive, bright, and hopeful.

🇲🇹 Malta: From Kraków, we flew to Malta for three full days of Mediterranean sun and history. Valletta’s golden stone streets, the vibrant harbour of Marsaxlokk, and the clear waters of Gozo and the Blue Lagoon left us speechless. Mum especially loved the contrasts of Malta—how modern life wraps itself gently around ancient sites, and how every corner holds a story.

🇺🇿🇰🇿 Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan: Then came Central Asia—Tashkent’s calm elegance, Samarkand’s majestic mosques and madrasas, Shymkent’s sincerity and soul. For both of us, it was a completely new region, and we were amazed at every turn. Registan Square, the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, the lively conversations with our guide Larisa in Kazakhstan—these are moments I will never forget. Mum kept saying she never imagined she would see these places, and watching her light up with wonder was one of the greatest parts of the trip.

🇵🇱🇸🇰🇨🇿 More time in Poland, Slovakia and Czechia: Back in Poland, we welcomed Leo for a few days—a visit that added a special layer of joy to the entire holiday. It was his first time in Poland, and we were eager to share some of our favourite places with him. We spent time together in Kraków, walked along the Vistula River, visited Wawel Castle, and introduced him to the vibrant cafés and history of the old town. We also travelled to Morskie Oko, then crossed into Slovakia to hike in the stunning High Tatras. Experiencing the mountains together, surrounded by spring greenery and snow-capped peaks, felt both refreshing and deeply grounding.

We later visited Žilina, a lively and welcoming city with pastel-coloured buildings, wide pedestrian streets, and a laid-back café culture that immediately drew us in. Earlier in the trip, while visiting Cieszyn, Mum and I walked across the Olza River to Český Těšín in Czechia. It was a simple, quiet town—peaceful, local, real. The act of crossing a border on foot and suddenly hearing another language, seeing different signs, and picking up a new rhythm of life added so much depth to our journey. It reminded us how rich and interconnected this region truly is.

🇵🇹🇳🇱 Lisbon & Amsterdam: And finally—Lisbon. Originally planned as a smooth final stop, this part of the journey was affected by flight disruptions. I ended up transferring through Amsterdam, which meant spending many hours at Schiphol Airport and arriving in Lisbon much later than expected. As a result, I had very limited time to go out and explore the city.

Still, I made the most of it. The experience at Amsterdam airport, though long, was not unpleasant—people-watching, wandering through bookshops, and simply taking a breath between chapters of travel. And once in Lisbon, even with the short time, I enjoyed the familiar air of the city, the tiled façades, the Atlantic breeze. It was also my first time travelling with my Portuguese passport, which added a layer of quiet pride and emotion to the experience.
 
Now, I’m preparing for the long flight to Caracas. I feel rested, filled with stories, and more connected than I’ve felt in a long time. There’s work waiting for me—intense and challenging—but I carry this spring with me now. A reminder of what matters, and how good it is to feel at home in many places.

More soon. For now, thank you, Poland. Thank you, Mum. And thank you to every person and place that made this journey so full of life.
 

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Vysoké Tatry, Slovakia, May 2025

At last! After many conversations, plans, and longings across borders, Leo—my dear Venezuelan friend—finally made it to Poland from Spain. It was a short visit, just four days, but those four days were packed with joy, discovery, movement, and shared moments that we’ll both treasure for years. Welcoming Leo and showing him some of my favourite places in Poland and Slovakia, as well as introducing him to my family, was incredibly special.
 
He arrived in Kraków, where we spent the first night in a hotel and began our little adventure the following day. The weather was kind to us—sunny, though slightly chilly—and the air carried that late-spring clarity that makes every sight feel even more vivid.
 
Kraków – Wonder Through History
 
Our day in Kraków was a revelation for Leo. The Old Town immediately captured his heart. We walked the Royal Route, from the Floriańska Gate to the majestic Wawel Castle, letting the rhythm of centuries-old cobbled streets guide us. St. Mary’s Basilica, with its twin towers and richly decorated wooden altar by Veit Stoss, left Leo in awe. When the hourly trumpet call (hejnał) echoed across the Rynek Główny, I could see in his eyes how deeply moved he was.
 
Later, we wandered down to Kazimierz, Kraków’s historic Jewish quarter, with its atmospheric streets, old synagogues, and bohemian charm. Kazimierz always feels like a place of memory and resilience. We sat in a quiet café, talked about the layers of history all around us, and enjoyed simply being in a place so full of soul. Leo was visibly enchanted by Kraków, overwhelmed in the best way by its richness and beauty. Watching his reactions brought me a new perspective on a city I know so well—it was like seeing it for the first time again, through his eyes.
 
Home in Nowy Sącz – Family, Nature and Wooden Churches
 
From Kraków, we made our way to Nowy Sącz, where we stayed with my Mum—a warm and lively stop in the middle of our travels. I was so happy to introduce Leo to my family, and he was welcomed with the same warmth and curiosity he always inspires.
 
We quickly moved into exploring the wooden churches of the Lemko region, near the Slovak border—hidden gems scattered around Kamianna, Uście Gorlickie, and Wysowa-Zdrój. These UNESCO-listed wooden churches are masterpieces of Carpathian wooden architecture, built by local communities, often without a single nail, using timber and techniques passed down over generations. Their steep shingled roofs, onion domes, and painted interiors feel at once humble and sacred—reminders of a spiritual world rooted in earth, forest, and tradition. Leo was amazed by their beauty, harmony with the landscape, and their mysterious aura.
 
Crossing Borders – Bardejov, Krynica, and the Tatras
 
Our next stop took us across the border to Slovakia, to the spectacular town of Bardejov—a small but exquisitely preserved medieval town, with a UNESCO World Heritage status. Its perfect main square, Gothic St. Egidius Basilica, and colourful merchant houses left a strong impression on both of us. We spent a few lovely hours wandering, talking, and enjoying the rhythm of the town.
 
Returning to Poland, we stopped in Krynica-Zdrój, one of my favourite spa towns. Even for a brief visit, it was a pleasure to walk through its elegant streets and to show Leo the town’s distinct blend of 19th-century resort architecture and natural beauty.
 
In the evening, we had a family party at my brother’s house—a wonderful gathering full of laughter, great food, and animated conversation. Leo fit in seamlessly, making friends instantly, and it meant so much to me to see my two worlds—Polish and Venezuelan—connecting so easily.
 
The following day was all about mountains. We started with the Pieniny region, visiting Czorsztyn and Sromowce Niżne, where we crossed the footbridge over the Dunajec River into Slovakia, arriving at the Červený Kláštor (Red Monastery). It was a magical crossing—simple, symbolic, and filled with joy. Later, we travelled into the Tatra Mountains, visiting Bukowina Tatrzańska in Poland and Vysoké Tatry on the Slovak side. The landscapes took our breath away—majestic peaks, dramatic light, endless sky. It was a highlight of the trip, one of those days that feel timeless.
 
Leo couldn’t stop smiling. He loved the freedom of moving between countries, and we laughed when we counted: in just four days, he had entered Poland four times and Slovakia three times!
 
Farewell – Until the Next Time
 
On the final day, we took it easy. A bit of shopping in Nowy Sącz, some time to rest and chat, and finally, the drive to the airport. Saying goodbye was, as always, a bit bittersweet—but more than anything, I felt grateful. Grateful for these days together, for the chance to share a part of my world with Leo, and for the memories we now carry with us.
 
Having Leo here in Poland was a joy. I already look forward to more journeys together—more bridges to cross, more cities to explore, more laughs to share. Because when friendship travels, it leaves a trail of light behind.

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A bus in Krosno, Poland, May 2025

As mid-May 2025 arrives, I continue to enjoy my time in southern Poland, relishing the slower rhythm of home, the gentle landscapes, and the quiet anticipation of welcoming my Venezuelan friend Leo, who will soon be arriving from Spain. These days have been a gift—calm, nourishing, and full of small joys.
 
The weather has been particularly kind. It’s not hot—just pleasantly mild—with long hours of daylight, bursts of sunshine, and occasional rain showers that lend the air a soft, romantic quality. The greenery around Nowy Sącz is intense and fresh, the kind that only exists in spring. Trees are in full bloom, rivers flow high, and the scent of lilacs and damp earth carries on the breeze.
 
In this serene atmosphere, I’ve taken the opportunity to revisit some of my favourite local places and to explore a few forgotten ones. A few days ago, I returned once again to Miasteczko Galicyjskie in Nowy Sącz—one of the region’s most charming historical sites. And then, almost on a whim, I decided to head east and visit Krosno, a town I hadn’t set foot in for many years. The trip turned out to be a delightful surprise.
 
Miasteczko Galicyjskie – A Living Time Capsule
 
The Galician Town (Miasteczko Galicyjskie) in Nowy Sącz is a remarkable open-air museum, part of the Ethnographic Park that recreates the life and architecture of a 19th-century Galician town—a region that once formed the easternmost crown land of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Walking through its cobbled streets is like stepping into a different time.
 
The town is composed of historically accurate wooden and brick buildings: a town hall, an inn, a post office, a barber’s shop, artisan workshops, and typical townhouses from across the former Galicia region. It’s a place that blends education with charm, offering visitors a tangible sense of how our ancestors lived, worked, and socialised. As always, I loved wandering through it—imagining conversations in Yiddish, Polish, and German; imagining horses trotting through the square and candles flickering behind small-paned windows.
 
It’s a site I return to often because it reminds me of the complexity of our local heritage—Polish, Jewish, Lemko, and Hungarian threads all woven together in what was once a vibrant multicultural tapestry. The Galicia of memory may be gone, but places like this help keep its spirit alive.
 
A Journey to Krosno – A Forgotten Gem Rediscovered
 
I hadn’t been to Krosno in years—so long, in fact, that I could hardly remember what it looked like. My expectations were modest, but as I entered the town and began to explore, I found myself genuinely impressed—even moved—by what I discovered.
 
Krosno, often called the “Glass City,” is located in the Subcarpathian region and has a history that stretches back to the Middle Ages. Once a thriving trade centre on the Hungarian route, Krosno developed a reputation for craft, commerce, and learning. In modern times, it became world-famous for its glass manufacturing, and its products are still exported around the globe.
 
But what captivated me most was the Old Town, which has undergone excellent restoration. The main square is beautifully preserved, with pastel façades, arcaded buildings, and the proud Tower of the Parish Church rising at the centre. The renovation has been done with care, preserving the character of the town without making it feel artificial or “overdone.” There’s authenticity in the details—old signs, cobblestone alleys, flower boxes, and the sound of church bells echoing off the stone.
 
Getting there was half the pleasure. The drive from Nowy Sącz took me through a series of winding roads and picturesque villages and small towns—each with its own rhythm and charm. Wooden churches, quiet meadows, roadside shrines, and sleepy town squares reminded me of how scenic and soul-stirring the Polish countryside can be when taken slowly.
 
Looking Ahead
 
As I write this, I’m feeling very grateful—for the calm of these days, for the beauty I’ve been able to rediscover, and for the time I’ve had with Mum, family, and close friends. And of course, I’m especially excited about Leo’s upcoming visit. I can’t wait to share some of this beauty with him, to show him the mountains, the towns, and the life here that feels so rooted and grounded. I know he’ll love it.
 
There’s still more time left in this holiday, and I plan to savour every remaining moment: more local excursions, more shared meals, more quiet walks, and meaningful conversations. After all the movement and distant places, these days close to home feel just as important—if not more so.

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The Friendship Bridge connecting Cieszyn with Český Těšín, Poland & Czechia, May 2025

After the excitement of our travels to Malta, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, I’ve been enjoying some quieter, grounding time back home in Nowy Sącz. The weather has cooled down a bit—refreshing and gentle, perfect for small adventures and moments of reconnection. There’s a certain peace that comes with returning to familiar places, especially after a whirlwind of discoveries.
 
This week, I made sure to spend quality time with my brother and his family at their home in Nowy Sącz. We caught up, shared stories, and as a small token from Venezuela, I brought them a bottle of Venezuelan rum—a gift carefully chosen by my dear friend Giovanni. Sharing it felt like connecting two different parts of my world, and it was warmly received.
 
A Day Trip Across Borders – Cieszyn & Český Těšín
 
Yesterday, Mum and I, together with our lovely neighbours, set out on a spontaneous road trip to the border city of Cieszyn, which straddles Poland and the Czech Republic. Cieszyn has always fascinated me, not just for its charm, but for its layered, often complex history.
 
Originally a single city, Cieszyn was divided in 1920, after the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and a territorial dispute between the newly formed Second Polish Republic and Czechoslovakia. The conflict, known as the Polish–Czechoslovak War, ended in arbitration, splitting the city along the Olza River. Today, Cieszyn lies in Poland and Český Těšín in the Czech Republic. Despite the physical separation, the two towns remain closely intertwined, culturally and socially. It’s a striking example of how borders can divide spaces but not necessarily people.
 
We began our walk on the Polish side, taking in the beauty of the historic market square, the Piast Tower, and the peaceful Olza riverbanks. Crossing the border on foot into Český Těšín felt seamless—no checkpoints, just a symbolic crossing into another chapter of shared heritage.
 
In Český Těšín, we had a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, where we sampled dumplings filled with bryndza—a creamy sheep cheese that’s beloved in this region. Mum and our neighbours also tried some excellent Czech beer, brewed with the care and tradition that the Czech lands are so rightly proud of. The meal was unpretentious, comforting, and truly satisfying—another reminder that simple pleasures often leave the strongest impressions.
 
Through Czechia and Slovakia – A Stop in Žilina
 
Instead of heading straight back, we chose a scenic return route through Czechia and Slovakia, which allowed us to stop in Žilina, a small city nestled in the north-western part of Slovakia. Žilina, located near the confluence of the Váh, Kysuca, and Rajčanka rivers, is a city with a long and intriguing history.
 
First mentioned in 1208, Žilina grew over centuries as a market town and later an industrial hub under Austro-Hungarian rule. Though modest in size, the city boasts a beautifully preserved Old Town, with a central square framed by arcaded houses and the striking Church of the Holy Trinity. We enjoyed a short but rewarding walk, followed by drinks at a relaxed outdoor café—watching locals go about their evening routines in the golden light of early summer.
 
The drive from Žilina back to Nowy Sącz was simply spectacular. As we wound our way through the mountains, we were treated to panoramic views of the Tatras, their peaks still dusted with snow, even in May. The landscape shifted between deep forests, green meadows, and dramatic rock formations—a visual feast that reminded us of how truly beautiful this corner of Europe is.
 
We reached home around 21:00, tired but happy, our heads filled with impressions from the day. It was the kind of trip that balances discovery with simplicity—a local adventure, shared with people we care about, rich in conversation and full of unexpected delight.

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Samarkand, Uzbekistan, May 2025

In May 2025, Mum and I had the extraordinary privilege of embarking on a journey we had long dreamed of—a visit to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, two remarkable countries at the crossroads of ancient civilisations, empires, and cultures. The trip turned out to be everything we hoped for and so much more: a deeply moving, enlightening, and at times unexpected adventure through places that have shaped the world in ways we are only now beginning to fully appreciate.
 
It was a fantastic journey in every sense—emotionally rich, culturally fascinating, and made all the more special by sharing it with Mum. We travelled through Tashkent, Samarkand, and Shymkent, crossing borders, braving the intense Central Asian heat, and constantly being amazed by the warmth of the people we met.
 
Samarkand – A Jewel of Human Civilization
 
Without a doubt, the crown jewel of our trip was Samarkand. A city of almost mythical reputation, Samarkand exceeded every expectation. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world—its roots going back to the 7th century BC—and once served as a vital centre on the Silk Road, the ancient trade network connecting China with the Mediterranean.
 
Walking through Registan Square, surrounded by the towering, tiled facades of three madrasahs, we were left speechless. The intricate Islamic art, symmetry, and colour were not only beautiful but deeply symbolic, evoking centuries of learning, spirituality, and cross-cultural dialogue. We felt like we had stepped into a living history book—only more vivid, more moving, and more inspiring than any text could convey.
 
We were particularly touched by how much of the world’s scientific and philosophical heritage has roots here. Figures like Ulugh Beg, the 15th-century astronomer and mathematician who built one of the greatest observatories of the medieval world, were central to the development of astronomy. Scholars in Bukhara and Samarkand were translating, preserving, and expanding on the knowledge of antiquity while much of Europe was still in the Dark Ages. This legacy—of scholarship, discovery, and humanism—filled us with admiration and humility.
 
To stand in a city where knowledge was once a currency more powerful than gold felt both inspiring and sobering. It reminded us how interwoven our global history truly is, and how much we owe to civilisations we often overlook in Western narratives.
 
Shymkent – An Unexpected Favourite
 
After crossing the border by foot—a messy but memorable experience, particularly for Mum, who handled it with patience and curiosity—we arrived in Shymkent, Kazakhstan. While not a “classic beauty” like Samarkand, Shymkent surprised and impressed us in ways that lingered long after we left.
 
There was something deeply authentic about Shymkent. It bears clear traces of its Soviet past—monolithic apartment blocks, wide boulevards, remnants of faded ideological murals—but this resonated with us as Poles. We recognised that strange blend of melancholy and resilience, and it made the city feel oddly familiar.
 
What truly won our hearts in Shymkent was our guide, Larisa—a brilliant, kind-hearted Kazakh-Russian woman whose depth of knowledge was matched only by her warmth and humanity. With quiet dignity and great insight, she helped us understand not only the region’s history, but also the social and emotional layers left behind by communism, independence, and rapid transformation. Her stories, humour, and grace stayed with us and added a profound human dimension to this part of our trip.
 
Tashkent – Surprising and Elegant
 
We began and ended our journey in Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital, and what a surprise it was. We had expected a functional, possibly overwhelming post-Soviet metropolis. Instead, we discovered a clean, spacious, and remarkably well-managed city that felt truly designed with its residents in mind.
 
Tashkent is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. The city’s metro system—decorated with artistic mosaics, chandeliers, and architectural flourishes—is not just efficient, but beautiful, like a museum beneath the ground. Wide boulevards are lined with trees and public parks, and the sights, such as Khast Imam Square, the Chorsu Bazaar, and Amir Timur Square, gave us insight into both the country’s proud heritage and its confident present.
 
What struck us most, however, was the kindness of the people. Everywhere we went, we were met with openness and generosity—strangers offered help, smiles were genuine, and conversations with locals added richness to each day. Despite the heat (and it was very hot), the spirit of Tashkent felt fresh and forward-looking.
 
A Bittersweet Goodbye
 
As we boarded our flight back to Warsaw, both Mum and I felt a mix of sadness and gratitude. It was difficult to leave this part of the world—a place that had welcomed us so warmly and taught us so much in such a short time. We knew we had only scratched the surface. Central Asia, with its layers of history, deep humanity, and astonishing beauty, had captured our hearts.
 
This journey was not just about ticking destinations off a list—it was about learning, connecting, and feeling part of something larger. It reminded us of how much we still have to discover and how rewarding it is to remain curious, open, and willing to engage with unfamiliar cultures on their own terms.
 
We left Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan not only impressed and inspired, but with a deep longing to return. And we will—because some places leave a mark so profound that you know your story with them isn’t over yet.

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Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland, May 2025

After my return from Caracas in April 2025, I had the joy of reconnecting with two places that are closest to my heart—Nowy Sącz, my hometown, and the historic city of Kraków. These quiet moments in southern Poland were a welcome interlude before continuing onward to new adventures. In between our travels to Malta and Uzbekistan, Mum and I spent a couple of lovely days in Kraków, which turned out to be especially memorable, as our visit coincided with 3rd May Constitution Day—a national holiday rich in symbolism and meaning for Poles everywhere.
 
Nowy Sącz – Where My Roots Are
 
As always, being back in Nowy Sącz brought a deep sense of grounding. The town’s location in the foothills of the Beskid Mountains and its layered cultural history make it a place where tradition and memory live side by side. Its Old Market Square, the family home, and the nearby hills are not just landmarks but emotional signposts that connect me to who I am and where I come from. This is a place where every street evokes stories—of childhood, family gatherings, friendships, and life’s turning points.
 
Kraków – A Pause with History and Celebration
 
Kraków, with all its splendour, greeted us with festive elegance. 3rd May is one of the most important holidays in Poland, commemorating the adoption of the Constitution of 3 May 1791—the first modern constitution in Europe and the second in the world, after the United States. It was a bold, visionary attempt to reform the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, strengthening democratic governance and civil rights at a time when absolutism still dominated much of Europe.
 
Although the constitution’s effects were short-lived due to the eventual partitions of Poland, its legacy has remained deeply symbolic. For generations, the 3rd of May has represented hope, reform, and a proud moment of Polish intellectual and political courage. During communist times, celebrating the holiday was forbidden, and yet it remained alive in people’s hearts. Today, it’s an official public holiday and a cherished occasion for national pride.
 
Being in Kraków on this day made it all the more special. The city was buzzing with a gentle kind of festivity—Polish flags fluttering from balconies, choirs and orchestras performing patriotic songs in the open air, families enjoying the spring sunshine in the streets and parks. It felt like a celebration not just of history, but of continuity and resilience.
 
We focused our time on Kraków’s city centre, exploring the heart of the Old Town, which is one of the most beautiful and historically preserved medieval city centres in Europe. We admired the majestic Wawel Castle, once home to Polish kings and still a powerful symbol of sovereignty and nationhood. From there, we wandered along the Royal Route, through the Rynek Główny, with its Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) and St. Mary’s Basilica, both icons of Kraków’s grandeur.
 
A particularly meaningful stop was the Jagiellonian University, founded in 1364 and one of the oldest in the world. As we stood in the courtyard of the Collegium Maius, I reflected on how this very institution had nurtured the minds of thinkers, scientists, and leaders—including Copernicus—and how it continues to play a vital role in shaping the intellectual fabric of Poland.
 
A Meal to Remember
 
As the day warmed, Mum and I enjoyed a long and relaxing lunch at a Czech restaurant just off the main square. The food was comforting and generous—dumplings, hearty sauces, and cold drinks—and the setting gave us time to slow down, talk, and simply enjoy being in the moment. These shared meals in beautiful surroundings are often the memories that linger the longest. It was one of those small but perfect travel moments—unhurried, joyful, and full of connection.
 
A Perfect Pause
 
These days in Nowy Sącz and Kraków were not just a pause between travels—they were a return to the source, a reminder of what grounds me before continuing forward. Being back in familiar places, especially with Mum by my side, reminded me that home is not only where we come from, but where we feel known, rooted, and whole.
 
This visit also reminded me of the beauty and richness of Polish history, and how important it is to hold on to the moments of pride and resilience, just like the 3rd of May Constitution Day invites us to do.

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Fireworks over Valletta, Valletta, Malta, April 2025

In early May 2025, just a few weeks after my return from Venezuela, Mum and I embarked on a brief but beautiful escape—to the Mediterranean jewel of Malta. We boarded a direct flight from Kraków to Luqa International Airport, filled with excitement and curiosity. Although the trip lasted only three days, those days were filled to the brim—with exploration, sunlight, laughter, and meaningful time together.
 
This getaway was our opportunity to be fully present with one another after months apart. The chance to travel with Mum is always a privilege I deeply value. Whether in quiet conversations or shared silences while taking in a view, these moments together are never taken for granted. Malta, in all its golden beauty and cultural richness, offered the perfect setting for such moments.
 
Valletta – A Capital of Stone and Soul
 
We stayed in Valletta, Malta’s small but majestic capital. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in history, elegance, and atmosphere. Built by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century after the Great Siege, Valletta is a city of limestone ramparts, sun-drenched balconies, and narrow streets that echo with centuries of stories.
 
Everywhere we turned, there was something to marvel at—St. John’s Co-Cathedral, whose unassuming façade gives way to an explosion of Baroque splendour; the Grandmaster’s Palace, a reminder of Malta’s chivalric past; and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where we paused to gaze over the Grand Harbour, feeling the warm breeze and watching ferries glide below. Valletta felt like a city suspended in time—its past ever-present, but not weighed down by it.
 
Even the everyday corners of the city—the quiet piazzas, the tucked-away cafés, the ornate door knockers on every street—told a story of a people rooted in tradition yet welcoming of the world. Malta’s dual identity as both European and uniquely Maltese is felt most strongly in Valletta. The Maltese language, with its Arabic, Italian, and English influences, echoes the island’s complex past, and yet everything feels easy to navigate and warm in spirit.
 
The South and East – Fishing Villages and Sea Caves
 
On our second day, we ventured beyond the capital to explore the southern and eastern parts of the island. Our first stop was the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, famous for its colourful luzzu boats bobbing in the bay. The boats—painted in rich shades of red, yellow, green, and blue—are not just beautiful but symbolic, each adorned with the Eye of Osiris to ward off bad luck at sea.
 
The promenade was alive with life—open-air cafés, locals selling honey and lace, children playing along the shore. We had a delicious seafood lunch and watched as the market bustled with both locals and curious visitors. Mum and I found ourselves chatting for hours, watching the ebb and flow of life around us, enjoying the simplicity of being far away from routine.
 
Later that day, we visited the Blue Grotto, a series of natural sea caves on the southwestern coast. The water, reflecting the sunlight against the white limestone, glowed in shades of cobalt and turquoise. We took a short boat ride beneath the cliffs, and the moment felt almost surreal—nature at its most artful. It reminded us how much beauty can exist in quiet, hidden corners of the world.
 
Gozo and the Blue Lagoon – Malta’s Natural Gems
 
On our final day, we joined a small group tour to Gozo and Comino, two of Malta’s smaller islands, and a world apart from the capital’s buzz. Gozo immediately enchanted us with its peaceful landscapes, terraced fields, and slower pace of life. We visited the Citadel in Victoria, a fortified city with panoramic views of the island, and wandered through quaint villages with churches that seemed far grander than their surroundings would suggest.
 
In Gozo, time seemed to move more gently. People greeted one another in the streets. The scent of citrus and wild herbs lingered in the air. Mum and I both felt it—a kind of quiet magic that comes with simplicity and space to breathe.
 
From Gozo, we continued on to Comino’s Blue Lagoon—a place that almost defies description. The water was so clear and so blue that it felt like we had stepped into a painting. We swam and relaxed on the rocks, letting the sun warm our faces. Surrounded by shimmering sea and pale cliffs, it was the perfect way to conclude our visit.
 
Malta – A Place of Many Layers
 
What makes Malta truly fascinating is not only its beauty, but its depth. Despite being one of Europe’s smallest countries, it has layer upon layer of history and influence: from prehistoric temples older than the pyramids to the legacies of Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and the British. The Knights of St. John left an indelible mark—not only in architecture but also in the ethos of service and resilience that seems to characterise the Maltese people. The country’s dual linguistic identity—Maltese and English—adds to its accessibility, while its Mediterranean heart gives it warmth in every interaction.
 
Even in such a short time, Malta left a lasting impression on both of us. It was a place where the ancient and modern coexist gracefully, where every stone holds a story, and where every meal, sunset, and conversation felt a little more vivid.
 
More than anything, it was the time with Mum that made the trip truly special. Exploring a new country side by side, learning together, talking without hurry—it was a reminder of how travel deepens connection not only with the world, but with the people we share it with.
 
This May weekend in Malta was a brief chapter in our journey, but one we will remember for years. It marked the beginning of my holiday season in 2025, and it couldn’t have begun on a better note: with sunshine, discovery, and the quiet joy of being together.

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Krynica Górska, Poland, April 2025

After the long journey from Caracas to Nowy Sącz in April 2025, I wanted nothing more than to spend some peaceful, joyful time with my mother. To celebrate our reunion and the beginning of my holidays, we decided to take a day trip to one of the most charming places in southern Poland—Krynica-Zdrój. It turned out to be a perfect choice.
 
The day was everything we could have hoped for: bright spring sunshine, lush greenery everywhere, and a vibrant atmosphere as people flocked to enjoy the beauty of the season. Together, we talked, laughed, and simply savoured each other’s company, grateful for the moments of closeness after months apart.
 
Krynica-Zdrój, often referred to simply as Krynica, is one of Poland’s most beloved spa towns, known for its healing mineral waters and stunning architecture. Nestled in the foothills of the Beskid Sądecki mountains, the town combines natural beauty with elegant charm. Krynica’s history as a spa resort dates back to the 19th century, when it became a fashionable destination for those seeking rest and recuperation. Even today, it retains a nostalgic air of a bygone era, while still welcoming visitors with modern amenities.
 
One of the highlights of our visit was taking the delightful little funicular railway to the top of Góra Parkowa. The “Góra Parkowa train,” as it is affectionately known, has been carrying visitors up the hill since 1937. The ride, though short, is a journey into another world: as we ascended, the panorama of Krynica opened up below us, bathed in spring light. At the top, we strolled around the Parkowa Mountain Park, enjoying the views, the fresh mountain air, and the simple pleasure of being surrounded by nature.
 
Back in the centre of Krynica, we wandered through its beautifully preserved streets. The architecture of the town is a feast for the eyes—an eclectic blend of Art Nouveau, Swiss-style wooden villas, and historic spa houses. Among the gems are the Old Spa House (Stary Dom Zdrojowy) with its grandiose façade, and the picturesque Wooden Pump Room (Pijalnia Główna), where visitors can still sample the town’s famous mineral waters. Every corner of Krynica seemed to whisper stories of its golden age, when it was frequented by writers, artists, and aristocrats seeking health and inspiration.
 
After spending a few wonderful hours exploring, we decided to extend our adventure and return to Nowy Sącz via Muszyna, driving along the enchanting road that hugs the Polish-Slovak border. The scenery was breathtaking—gentle hills, dense forests, and the winding Poprad River creating a serene landscape that felt untouched by time.
 
On the way, we passed through Żegiestów, a once-renowned spa town that shares the same cultural and geographical tapestry as Krynica. Żegiestów, like much of this border region, is steeped in a rich, complex history, blending Polish, Slovak, and Lemko traditions. Though quieter than Krynica today, its old spa buildings and natural beauty hint at its former splendour. The entire Polish-Slovak borderland is an area of unique charm, where cultures meet and nature reigns supreme.
 
As we drove home, with the sun slowly setting behind the hills, both Mum and I felt a deep sense of contentment. It had been a simple day, but a profoundly beautiful one—a celebration of family, spring, and the deep roots that connect us to home.
 
This trip to Krynica was not just a lovely excursion; it was the perfect beginning to my holiday, a gentle and heartwarming reminder of the simple joys that matter most.

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