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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