The last days of our time in Europe were spent in a hectic fashion. It seemed our travels took us to two to three different countries per day. We left Italy early and drove back through Slovenia--making sure our toll tag was in its proper place. We decided to give Slovenia a few more chances and decided to stop at Postojna Cave. There we spent time touring the cave. I have not been to many caves, but I can already tell you that this cave is unlike any you have ever been to before. A mini train ride takes you to the bottom of the cave and then you explore the rest by foot. We were taken about three miles by train and walked about one mile. The train then takes you back to the top (Otherwise that would be one heck of a climb). Make sure to watch your head while riding the train because there are many low areas during the ride. Also, the temperature dropped in the cave to a brisk 45 degrees Fahrenheit or 7 degrees Celsius. Ben had a sweater that he let me borrow otherwise it would have been a very chilly ride and walk. You can also rent a jacket, but being on a travel budget that seems a bit frivolous.
After the cave exploration we went to the capital city and largest city in Slovenia, Ljublijana. The city has a population of 250,000 which is just slightly bigger than the city of Debrecen. The capital had many classical looking buildings and a beautiful river that cuts through downtown. I suggest visiting just for an afternoon or evening. We stopped for lunch and did a little exploring by foot and we felt satisfied in our sightseeing there. Cafes seems to be the biggest source of entertainment in Ljubljana, and the city seems to have a large young adult population. We enjoyed stretching our legs in this city, but I think if we had to choose between the cave experience or going to the city we would choose the cave. I think the best thing that Slovenia has to offer is its natural beauty.
After lunch we drove another 3 or 4 hours to get to Lake Balaton in Hungary. We stayed near the lake that night and had our last traditional Hungarian meal. We stayed at a bed and breakfast that night where we were the only people there. Our host was a little old woman who knew no English and we know...well you know...no Hungarian. So it was interesting, but after a year of hand jesters, fascial expressions and nodding of the head, we made it through okay. She had the cutest little dog that reminded me so much of our own back home that it almost made me cry. I was tempted to steal it and take it with me, but Ben insisted that the dog would put us over the weight limit for our suitcases. We only stayed at Lake Balaton that night and the next day we hit the road again making our way back to Debrecen.
We arrived in Debrecen around noon and unloaded our stuff at Ben's school. Ben's school was nice enough to let us stay the night--our old apartment could no longer be used because they were doing renovations to it. That last day in Debrecen we tied up loose ends like going to the bank, drop off our rental car and packing up for home. The last night in Debrecen was bitter sweet. We felt we were leaving our home, but also knew that we were going home. We visited our favorite coffee shop one last time and raised our glasses to Debrecen. You were a beautiful, messy, confusing, inspiring, fun little city. We will always be grateful for being placed in Debrecen. The friendships we made, the co-workers we met and the students we taught were all unforgettable. It is never easy leaving, but it's not really good-bye forever...just for a little while.
So as they say in Hungary for good-bye...Hello!
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