Rediscovering travel
At the start of the year, to escape Berlin's winter, I toured key European capitals in 20 days. I began in Rome to visit a friend, then work took me to Munich and Dusseldorf. I went to Amsterdam to see my brother, spent a week in London, and visited another brother in Paris. I ended with weekends in Barcelona and Madrid.
What I realized was how similar these cities are. In each city center, I saw the same brands, stores, and restaurant chains. The architecture varied, but the essence of commercialized urban life felt the same. Despite local nuances, there was a uniformity that made each city feel like a slight variation of the last. It was a strong reminder of how globalization connects us but also erases the quirks that make each place unique.
True adventure
Last September, I took a two-week motorbike trip with my dad. We left from Barcelona and crossed the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps on our way to the Dolomites. The adventure was unbeatable.
When you travel by motorbike, you connect with the world in a way cars and planes can't match. The world isn't seen through a window; you're exposed to your surroundings. There's no barrier between you and nature. You smell the cut grass in the morning and feel the breeze through your visor.
Most people don't understand this. They ask if you get tired sitting for hours or bored driving all day. They miss the point. It's not about the destination but the journey. Every hour on the road is an adventure.
More importantly, it's incredibly fun. There's a thrill in leaning into a curve, feeling the road beneath you, and knowing every decision is yours alone. It's a dance between you and the machine.
Riding through these places reminded me why I love motorbikes. The sense of accomplishment after a long ride, the bond with the bike, the camaraderie with other riders...
The need for real experiences
Humans are explorers. We crave real experiences, and it's only a matter of time until we demand more. Slow travel is gaining popularity, and people are beginning to care more about the journey.
I expect road trips to become a key way to travel again. They let you cross a country, explore the unexplored, and feel its true culture. There's something special about venturing into the heart of a place, driving through scenic landscapes, and discovering small towns and hidden gems.
In a world of instant gratification, the open road calls you to slow down and enjoy the ride. While cities offer convenience and predictability, true adventure lies in the journey... So embrace it ✌🏼