Euro Trip Part 2: Eastern Europe

Flew into Budapest, wandered Heroes' Square, and let the cool wind carry me back to memories of Karachi winters.

Rented a bike and tore through Budapest — Buda Castle, Gellért Hill's surreal views, the Chain Bridge, and Margaret Island.

Cycled from Vajdahunyad Castle to St. Stephen's Basilica, found peace at the Botanical Gardens, and watched the city light up from Citadella.

Bused to a quiet Bratislava, climbed to the castle, then joined Canadian backpackers for an international pub crawl till 3 AM.

Explored the Blue Church and Slavín, then cycled 15 km to Devín Castle for breathtaking views where the Danube and Morava meet.

Found Vienna dull under grey skies — the Opera and Museumsquartier couldn't match Bratislava's nature; I cling to nature, cities don't appeal to me.

The one thing I'd planned: cycling the stunning Wachau Valley from Krems toward Melk — sun on my face, mountains right, river left.

Arrived in Warsaw off an overnight train, cycled to Łazienki Park and the Presidential Palace, but the grey city failed to impress.

A sunny day of free walking tours — history, new friends from Brazil and the US, and a food tour of donuts, vodka, and five beers.

Reunited with tour friends for a playful last day — the Mermaid of Warsaw, wish-jumps at the Bell, and games in the park.

After a brutal 9-hour night bus, warmed up in Vilnius with a great hostel, Gediminas' Tower, and a huge plate of Cepelinai.

Cycled 17 km on a basic city bike to the green lakes through forest — a rural cottage stirred tearful memories of northern Pakistan.

Sad to leave a city I'd grown to love, I flew back to my second home, Amsterdam, ending the journey.