Brent's Ramblings

Returning to Warsaw felt like a homecoming after months of travel. The all-night train ride brought colorful encounters—a nonstop-talking extrovert, Brits, and Aussies. In Budapest, I soaked in hot springs, dodged flag Speedos, and escaped childish banter at dinner. Back in Warsaw, familiar streets, favorite soup, and even paper airplane contests on the sidewalk reminded me why this city feels like a second home before my final journey to Krakow and Kyiv.

Serbia—land of no toilet paper and scarce internet cafés. In Belgrade, I wander past bombed buildings and meet locals like Baby and Nikolai, who share stories from Serbia’s turbulent past. Along the way, I befriend travelers, get teased for buying socks, and spot quirky t-shirts. After two and a half days, I’m tired but grateful. The road to Budapest awaits—but it’s the people who make this adventure unforgettable.

Arrived in Athens at sunrise with a shooting star above—Olympic magic had begun. Navigated chaotic buses, sweaty ruins, and no bag storage, but found relief from North Carolina Baptists handing out water. Caught Canada vs. Chinese Taipei in Olympic baseball after a hilarious run-in with Greek security. The sunset over the stadium was stunning. Sunrise to sunset in Athens—then off to Thessaloniki by night train.