Leipzig
Leipzig offered Germany’s decisive World Cup 2026 qualifier at the Red Bull Arena, a Gorilla Biscuits concert at Felsenkeller—a splendid hall in the city’s west—and the world-famous St. Thomas Church.
Moldova
Moldova is a landlocked country and former Soviet Republic, sandwiched between Romania and Ukraine. It is the least visited country in Europe, except for the microstates.
Its capital, Chisinau, is a lively city with parks, Soviet-era architecture, an unexpectedly vibrant café culture, and plenty of great cake.
There are a couple of wineries close to Chisinau. I visited the Cricova winery, famous for its 120 km-long underground labyrinth.
Orheiul Vechi offers an ancient settlement and a stunning cave monastery.
The Military Museum is well worth visiting. They have some large Soviet vehicles like tanks or howitzers in the garden, and also exhibits from all armed conflicts Moldova took part in, including Afghanistan in the Eighties and the Transnistrian War during the collapse of the Soviet Union. The National Museum of Art of Moldova and the National Museum of History of Moldova are also worth a visit. All three museums could use more information in English—hopefully, this will improve as they attract more foreign visitors.
The Eternity Memorial Complex commemorates a key battle in World War II.
Sovietophiles flock to Transnistria – officially known as the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic. It is a breakaway state, mostly located “trans the Dniester River”, which has retained Russian as its official language and is closely aligned with Russia. It reminded me a bit of my hometown, West Berlin.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers a range of experiences for visitors. In Sofia, the capital, notable sights include its impressive cathedrals, Roman ruins, and the Museum of Socialist Art showcasing Soviet-era arts. The city also hosted the Spain-Bulgaria World Cup qualifier, adding a sporting highlight to the visit. Beyond the capital, the Rila national park and monastery provide a glimpse into Bulgaria’s natural beauty and religious heritage. Along the Black Sea coast, Nessebar and Varna offer seaside attractions.
Madrid
Madrid (photos) offered a variety of experiences, including visits to the excellent Museo de América, the vertiginous lift of the Faro de Moncloa, and some truly high temperatures. The city’s renowned triangle of art—Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza, and Museo Reina Sofia—provided a comprehensive overview of Spanish and international art. Other highlights included attending a bullfight, exploring Parque del Oeste, and experiencing the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Kosovo
More Balkan: Prishtina, the capital of Kosovo—Europe’s youngest country. The city is famous for its strikingly ugly National Library building, a local landmark that draws both curiosity and criticism for its unusual architecture. Nearby, I visited the unique bear resort, a sanctuary dedicated to rescued bears. Prishtina also stands out for its public displays of admiration for Bill Clinton and Mother Theresa, with statues and streets named in their honor, reflecting the country’s gratitude and cultural ties.
North Macedonia
Skopje, the birthplace of Mother Theresa, is a city that blends history and modernity in striking ways. Its center is dotted with newly built statues and monuments, giving the city an unexpectedly old-world atmosphere despite their recent construction. About an hour aways the city lies the scenic Matja canyon, a natural wonder known for its dramatic cliffs and tranquil waters, making it a popular spot for hiking and boat trips.
Football in Germany in 2025 featured the UEFA Nations League Finals and the Champions League final (photos). I attended all Nations League Finals matches except the third place playoff. Portugal secured the Nations League title after a penalty shootout, while the France-Spain match was notable for its dramatic swings in momentum.
Norderney and Emden
Norderney, located in the North Sea, is known for its expansive sandy beaches, dunes, and tranquil coastal scenery. Emden is notable as the birthplace of comedian Otto Waalkes, a comedy icon in Germany. The city also features the Bunker Museum Emden, a remarkable World War II museum offering insights into the region’s wartime history.
Chemnitz
The Linuxtag event took place in Chemnitz, which incidentally was also named the European Capital of Culture for 2025. Don’t miss out on “The Head”.
Morocco
Morocco features a diverse range of landscapes and cities that blend modernity with heritage. The Sahara stands out for its striking colors and expansive scenery. The Atlas mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the region. Urban highlights include Casablanca, a city known for its contemporary architecture; Rabat, the capital with a mix of historic and modern sites; Fes, famous for its ancient medina; and Marrakech, which offers vibrant markets and traditional Moroccan culture.
Regensburg
Regensburg is a city in Bavaria known for its well-preserved medieval old town and its location along the Danube River. The city features notable landmarks such as the Stone Bridge and Regensburg Cathedral. A short distance from the city lies the Walhalla, a neoclassical hall of fame that honors distinguished figures from German history. The Walhalla’s impressive architecture and scenic setting above the river make it a popular destination for visitors interested in history and culture.