November really wasn’t the best time of the year to visit Bratislava. The old town used to be run-down and downright dangerous. However, it was renovated and transformed like Budapest or Prague, without all the mass of tourists. Restaurants, churches, cafés and winding cobblestone streets in a totally pedestrian old town were so inviting. But, it was still November with a lot of cold and rain. And, when life gives you so much cold and rain, it’s time for some warmth and caffeine. The cafés in Bratislava did not disappoint.
When traveling abroad, it’s easy to see what you’re supposed to see without actually meeting anyone in the country. That’s why I consider waiters and waitresses such vital resources. They usually speak great English and have a wealth of information to share. They also didn’t disappoint in Bratislava. However, they were not the most memorable aspect of my caffeine experience. And, surprisingly, neither were my many, many cappuccinos.
Young Slovakian parents proved I was not in Kansas - or the United States - anymore. They had amazing thermal baby carriages to keep their infants toasty warm in a climate that was anything but toast. And, protected under those layers, I witnessed those parents park their carriages outside of café windows while they strolled inside for their favorite brews. The shock must have been so very obvious on our American faces. One couple joked with us about their baby outside. Fresh air or not, that just wouldn’t happen back home. But, like I said, the old town was renovated, vibrant and very safe.
If you want to know more about my café experience on the Continent, click the links to see where I recommend a spending time in Antwerp and Bratislava. Of course, if you look at the Slovakia photos, you will see one of those thermal carriages - outside of the café!
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