In this episode, I kick off my biggest trip yet, starting from grandma's house near Mannheim, Germany, and aiming for Beijing, before exploring Southeast Asia. The journey is sparked by a rough patch in my career, leading me to quit my job without a backup plan for the first time ever. In search of a fresh perspective, I ring up my brother Philipp and pitch him the idea of taking the Trans-Siberian Railway all the way to Beijing. Without hesitation, Philipp is in, asking only about the budget and timing. Just like that, we're set to plan this massive trip, diving into preparations with a mix of excitement and a bit of anxiety.

The run-up to departure is a blur of research, packing debates, and a frantic last-minute visa chase. We decide on backpacks, gadgets, and even look up the best SIM cards for the journey. Despite a visa hiccup that almost derails us, we are fueled by the thrill of adventure. Our farewell is a mix of emotions, leaving home with just our backpacks and a plan. As we move from the familiarity of Vienna to the unknown of Bratislava, the trip truly begins to feel like the escape we had hoped for, filled with new sights, tastes, and the occasional challenge.

This episode ends before the journey even really starts though – so stay tuned for more.

Links:

• Trans-Siberian Railway Official Site — Official website providing information, ticket booking, and planning for the Trans-Siberian railway journey from Moscow to Beijing.
• TravelSim Official Site — Provides international SIM cards for travelers, offering coverage in over 200 countries to stay connected.
• Airalo — Even easier and my preferred eSIM provider for travelling these days (2024).
• Icebreaker Merino Official Site — Offers a wide range of merino wool clothing ideal for travel, known for its comfort and odor resistance. My favourite travel gear.
• Figlmüller — Place for Schnitzel in Austria.
• Bratislava Castle — Site for Bratislava Castle, with visitor information including hours and exhibitions.
• Mondieu Café in Bratislava — A chain of cafes in Bratislava known for its comfortable atmosphere and quality coffee and desserts.
• Devín Castle — Devín Castle is a castle in Devín, which is a borough of Bratislava.
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