Wheels Rolling South: New Borders and New Adventures

As we bid farewell to Germany and set our sights on new horizons, our journey takes us through Austria, Slovenia, and beyond. It’s back to just the two of us — Annika and me — embracing the unknown, meeting fellow travelers, and continuing this incredible adventure.

Klagenfurt: A Lakeside Gem on the Austrian Border

Our first stop was Klagenfurt, one of Austria’s southernmost cities, nestled near the Slovenian border. The stunning Wörthersee provided the perfect backdrop for leisurely walks and bike rides around town.

We wandered through the city center, admired the Lindwurm Fountain, and marveled at the beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. Klagenfurt offered us a delightful mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty.

Bled: A Fairy Tale Destination Come to Life

Later in the week, we transitioned into our second country: Slovenia. Driving through the Karawankentunnel was a moment of appreciation for human engineering. After picking up the road charge device at the first service area, we made our way to Bled — a scene straight out of a fairy tale. The lake, with its charming island and church, combined with the majestic castle perched high on a rock, left us in awe. We walked the full circuit around the lake, indulged in hot chocolate and cake, and spent cozy nights in our camper van, soaking in the tranquility of this magical place.

Conversations That Shape Our Journey

One of the most rewarding aspects of our journey is the encounters with fellow travelers. The fresh, playful colors of our truck seem to spark curiosity, drawing people in for conversation. Many are intrigued, and the reactions have been overwhelmingly positive.

One of our favorite icebreakers is the list on our truck that states, “We are world travelers” in various languages. Strangers seeing their native tongue always brings smiles and opens the door to fantastic interactions.

Conversations often lead to shared travel tips, and that’s how we learned about the Avsenik Museum — a tribute to Slovenia’s legendary folk band. Though we couldn’t visit due to its winter closure, it was a reminder of how much there is still to discover.

As we continue moving forward, we’re reminded of the joy in simple moments: a scenic walk, a warm drink, or a meaningful conversation with a stranger. Whether you’re traveling the world or navigating daily life, there’s beauty in slowing down and appreciating the journey.

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

- Marcel Proust

Until next week, keep exploring — wherever you are!

Explore. Dream. Discover.