Seasonal tourists are known for flocking to the most visited places on the planet, leaving the rest in the lap of history and authenticity.
Lately, I have realised that a destination loses its raw and authentic charm when tourists and expats inhabit it.
My 3 nation trip in Central Europe made me think deeply, which has been my favourite destination? And, I would blindly pick Slovakia, thanks to its everlasting old town vibe and untouched culture.
Slovakia is very different from its immediate neighbours in many aspects.
After spending some time Bratislava, Slovakia, I am confident of what I preach about this place through my blog.
Firstly let me clear this myth. There have been many questions regarding the true identity of Slovakia.
Is Slovakia a country? : Yes, Slovakia is an independent nation that broke from Czechoslovakia in 1993, separating itself from the Czech Republic.
A unique communist feel in Bratislava: What makes Bratislava different from its immediate neighbours?
I would firmly say that Bratislava is untarnished by cosmopolitism. While visiting the city, one can identify the role of communism in the city.
The vibe is entirely abstract. Empty and dull streets, buildings are resembling huge matchboxes, odd-looking futuristic attractions and the damp fragrance of lethargy in the air.
One needs to visit Bratislava, to feel the profoundly ingrained communist attributes.
Bratislava is the bridge that connects the communist world in the East to the EU in the west.
Fitted between Ukraine and Austria, Slovakia is more subtle when it comes to the West European culture.
The historic city centre/Old town Bratislava: I went all bonkers when I saw the Historic city centre of Bratislava.
Historic city centre in Bratislava corresponds to the main market square where one can spot few ‘active’ people.
But, it was the architecture that made me admire this place.
The historic city centre of Bratislava cozily sits in the middle of the city.
It closely resembles as a maze with narrow alleyways meandering against the cobbled pathways and spray-painted walls with torn bills.
Indeed, this is what I find charming about the historic city centre of Bratislava.
The small plaza is a delight in itself. Cute cafes, souvenir shops and local eateries surround the ‘so-called market square’ of Bratislava.
Yes, there is a slight hustle and bustle in this area.
However, the goods about this place are just limited to treating your eyes.
It is recommended not to dine or shop since these legacy cafes are known to be notoriously expensive.
Bratislava Castle, a rip-off? : All the signboards in Bratislava lead to the Bratislava castle, located on an elevation overlooking the entire city.
It is a rip-off for a castle.
Compared to other castles in Europe, Bratislava Castle is a displeasure to look at! But, this is not an excuse to skip this place.
All tourists religiously pay this place a visit for the views that are offered.
Yes, the scenery is commendable, but it can be happily skipped if you are too lazy to hike your way up. ‘Hrad’ is a Slovak word for castle.
This word can be found on many signboards, especially in the old town.
Is the government really insisting tourists visit this place?
The historic city centre/Old town Bratislava: I went all bonkers when I saw the Historic city centre of Bratislava.
Historic city centre in Bratislava corresponds to the main market square where one can spot few ‘active’ people.
But, it was the architecture that made me admire this place.
The historic city centre of Bratislava cosily sits in the middle of the city.
It closely resembles as a maze with narrow alleyways meandering against the cobbled pathways and spray-painted walls with torn bills.
Indeed, this is what I find charming about the historic city centre of Bratislava.
The small plaza is a delight in itself.
Cute cafes, souvenir shops and local eateries surround the ‘so-called market square’ of Bratislava.
Yes, there is a slight hustle and bustle in this area.
However, the goods about this place are just limited to treating your eyes.
It is recommended not to dine or shop since these legacy cafes are known to be notoriously expensive.
Appealing Café Culture: I am appalled by cafes.
The refreshing aroma of fresh coffee beans filling up the airs, ultra-cosy interiors and friendly baristas are all you need to miss your scheduled train!
Yes, this was the third time I was almost about to lose hold of my train because of this cosy café culture in Europe.
There are en number of cafes scattered across Bratislava, each having some speciality.
Cafes in Bratislava are metaphoric to large machines of productivity. During the 18th and 19th century, they acted as studios for artists and offices for writers.
Today they are a hub for digital nomads like me! For art enthusiasts, many of such cafes are art galleries presenting exhibits from renowned artists.
Some have stacked local books, offering fine a bibliotheca for bookworms.
It’s the time to ditch the overpriced Starbucks and get back to the legacy coffee shops serving with pure passion.
Bratislava is a beautiful place.
Having visited this city once, I am sure I will come back once again.
During my stay, I got the opportunity to meet many welcoming people.
I am sure you would love to visit this city as well.
