Paris to Vienna. Vienna to Budapest. Budapest to Bucuresti. Bucuresti to Sofia. And that's only the beginning. This is day five, and already I've seen more than I know what to do with...

It's not like I had a smooth beginning. My train out of Paris was cancelled, and we were re-routed through Strasbourg, Germany, not to mention that my ipod (thank you Kelsey!) and my cell phone were both having serious issues. In my mind that could have compromised the whole trip. Smiley face. Luckily, there was a very nice and very cute French boy in front of me who was terribly willing to help translate with the cell phone customer service. Oh la la. Everything went quite smoothly all the way through Bucuresti. Actually, everything has gone smoothly to date. In Budapest I picked up a Californian who was wavering between Budapest and Romania. Needless to say, I swayed her easily and we boarded a night train to Bucuresti. Romania is one of the most fascinating countries in the world. There is such an obvious facade that is supposed to display pride and wealth, and it shamefully attempts to hide the poverty and decay there. I love being in Romania. Plus, I had fabulous company to share in the experience with me!
The train to Sofia had been cancelled and rescheduled, so I took a day train, which provided the opportunity to relax and see countryside as well as meet people. First there was the ambitious young marketing manager. Bulgarian, well travelled, good looking and fabulous conversation. He was followed by the two scroungy Greeks. They were seamen and philosophers whose great goal was to convince me to marry a seaman in Greece. Failed attempt, though valiant effort. Against their entreaties, I got off in Sofia and met up with our dear, old family friend Jordan. He has been introducing me to Bulgaria in all its glory and darkness. My two favorite things so far are the park down the street and his food. Bulgaria is winning the culinary contest hands down. I'm sure I should say so much more, but my fingers are too cold to keep typing. So pull out your map, trace the journey, and wish me luck...because I'm going to need it!