The High Tatras
The historian Jorg Brectefeld (via Wikipedia) defines ‘Mitteleuropa’ as ‘that part of Europa between East and West’. To that end, it’s a perfect description for Central Europe (German historical use of the term notwithstanding).
Commencing next Monday 20 September, we will be on our way to calling ‘Mitteleuropa’ home for roughly the next five weeks. Via a 2 night stay in Hong Kong en route.
I have so many mixed feelings. On the one hand pure elation - the trip being a dream that my partner Rado and I have spoken of now for quite a few years. The chance to spend time in those architectually splendid former Eastern European capitals that I always associated with Winston Churchill – given his coining of the term “Iron Curtain”. Budapest, Bratislava and Prague – not to mention Krakow, Salzburg and Vienna and many others.
On the other hand, there is much anticipation. To meet the parents of the man you have loved for the past three and a half years. Who is some years your junior. When you don’t speak the language (my fault I know). When said parents are travelling with us around to the cities and countryside, including the magnificant Tatra Mountains. Well, you get the picture…
Who’s nervous. I think it will just be a case of relaxing, being myself and taking every advantage of every opportunity to see as much as you can when in a strange land. With a series of very expert guides to learn from along the way.
Vitajte Slovakia!
Bratislava