… and into Romania

We continued the journey by train in the early afternoon … from Debrecen – crossing the Hungary/Romania border (thus leaving the Schengen area) –  to Satu Mare … a train trip of a bit more than three hours.

In Satu Mare a van was waiting for us – to continue the journey to Vadu Izei by road … another good two hours. We finally made it in the evening … with a great dinner (traditional Romanian fare) waiting for us.

Continuing to Debrecen …

This next day was a long travel day; we left Eger in the morning by bus, making our way to Debrecen (about three hours) … our first (and only) stop-over for the day … a few hours to explore town and get ready for the ride into Romania.

Back to Budapest

The planning for my summer vacation this year did not work out as desired; I basically changed my plans in the last minute and as such saw me in early August to decide what to do in September.
I reviewed my options and decided to stay in Europe this time … Eastern Europe being the destination – Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and a flying visit of the European part of Turkey.

A short flight got me into Budapest … my third time in Budapest … so no stress, just going with the flowing and enjoying this great city (which remains to be my favorite European big city).

Cologne

A visit of Cologne had been on my list for quiet some time now, however I never actually made it there – despite of Cologne being home to one of the most impressive buildings in all Germany (if not the most impressive one) – the Cologne Cathedral.

A special offer by the German rail company now made me consider and I ended up buying a ticket and headed for a trip to Cologne. During my visit I – obviously – spent some time in and on top of the Cathedral; beside that I also did a city tour and spent some time getting lost (i.e. exploring) on myself. Below some photographic evidence.

BBQ in Nieuwpoort

Gallery

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Our friends from the Jeugdbrandweer Nieuwpoort had invited for their yearly barbecue, so six of us made – as a weekend trip – our way up to our sister city Nieuwpoort in Belgium to attend … below some impressions.