7 Countries in 7 Weeks

Countries: -Austria -Hungary -Czech Republic -Slovakia -Germany -Croatia -Italy -Vatican City (if you want to get technical) Cities: -Vienna -Semmering -Salzburg -Budapest -Prague -Bratislava -Munich -Zagreb -Zadar -Venice -Cinque Terre -Florence -Rome

Thursday was bittersweet. I'll admit I cried, but rightfully so, as this was the best experience I have ever had in my life up until this point. I was sad to be leaving such an amazing city, but I was happy because I know that someday I will return. Whether pursuing graduate studies or backpacking, I am determined to make my way back one day. Thursday night out was a good way to end the trip!  Vienna, thanks for the memories. I am extremely thankful and blessed to have been able to experience your city and immerse myself in your culture. I learned a lot throughout my six weeks and I will never forget all of the happiness you provided me. 

On Wednesday, I appreciated one of the last sunsets on the roof by myself. It was one of my favorite views of the city. As the end of my trip neared, I felt a wave of emotions. Mostly sadness to be leaving such a wonderful city but excitement for the future (especially for a week in Italy with my mom)!

I went to Beer Street on Tuesday and had a beer. Or four. Same thing, really. Anyway, there were 50 beers on tap and I found another one that I like!! This one had a sweet raspberry flavor. Mm. I can officially come back to the states saying that I enjoy beer. After Beer Street, I met up with everyone at another bar which was really fun! I ended the evening with McDonald's in hand, so overall it was a pretty good night. 

On Monday, I ate lunch at a park in between classes. I watched a little boy as he ran around the park screaming but not out of frustration or sadness. He was simply screaming because he could and I thought to myself, "Man, I wish I could do that. Too bad it's not socially acceptable." Oh well, probably for the best. After classes, I went to the Belvedere palace and museum. Above are some of my favorite pictures. Later that evening, we went to a rooftop bar and I loved the sign outside. We are all mad here.

The majority of Sunday consisted of traveling back to Vienna. Anjali and I spent 9 hours on the bus ride home, but we made the most of it by working on our final papers for health psych. After we reached Vienna, I unpacked and took myself on a date. I walked around the first district until I found exactly what I was looking for - wiener schnitzel. I enjoyed my glass of wine, wiener schnitzel, potato salad, and last but not least, dessert! I may or may not have dropped €30 on myself, but who treats me better than myself? It was so lovely not checking my phone or the time and just being in my own company. Also, there was no way that I could resist this dessert...look at it. Just look at it. It was a night well spent, especially exploring the city afterwards :)

Saturday was relaxing and just what I needed. We laid by the water for a couple hours and then ate lunch accompanied with a view. After we finished eating, we rested by the water again and this time I dozed off for a bit. The water was refreshing and crystal clear. We headed back to our air bnb around 5 pm to drink and get ready for the evening. Viewing the sunset from the bell tower was arguably one of the most majestic sunsets I've ever seen. We ate dinner, grabbed a drink, and then made our way back to rest for our early departure the next day.