Since I began this blog I feel like I’m constantly berating myself for posting these entries months behind schedule, but there is a silver lining to it all - it gives me the chance to relive stories that already feel like they occurred ages ago. Cologne for me is particularly special because, looking back, it marks the beginning of when I finally deviated from my original "plan" I outlined back in the US. I knew it would happen eventually, and actually looked forward to it, I just didn't know when it would happen. The only reason why I even ventured out to Cologne in the first place was to meet up with a friend, Stephan, who I met on the very first day of my travels back in Faro, Portugal. I never considered Cologne as a city I'd visit on this trip, but in my experience the best way to travel is with a local; it doesn't even matter what city it is, whenever opportunity presents itself, I always take it.
I am so remarkably surprised by this city it’s incredible. There are still many, many cities planned for this trip, but Lisbon has secured its place at the top of my list of favorite cities in the world! While much of the experience can be attributed to excellent timing and fantastic people, Lisbon will forever have a special place in my heart. This sprawling metropolis has everything a person could possibly want in a big city - even just walking through the winding roads is a pleasure.
