Our Stuttgart adventure continues! You can catch up with part 1 here.

Day 3:

After yet another feast of a breakfast, our gang made the journey to Esslingen – not far out of Stuttgart.

Yes, I had crepes straight after breakfast…but then nearly everyone else did too!

Kelly, Rhina and I all wore the same dresses because…why not? Autumnal style in the perfect backdrop. We strolled around old buildings, including a wine cellar and a church. Esslingen is incredibly picturesque – we spent a great deal of time staring at everything around us.

After a quick stop for some warming soup, we made the ascent up to the castle to get a better view of the town. It was steep but it was worth it! The views were spectacular and the castle grounds were a pleasure to walk round.

As night fell, we made our way back for a local harvest festival. I have to say – I absolutely loved it. There was lots of local produce and you could try everything. The whole event was very warm and cosy; everyone was welcoming and friendly.

After a few glasses of local wine, Rhina and Holger took us for a kebab (I wish I’d ordered a larger one!). It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

Day 4:

When we got up on Sunday, the entire flat was filled with the most delicious smell. Rhina had promised us a traditional Venezuelan breakfast and boy did she deliver! As well as traditional German fare, we were treated to home-made arepas with black beans and avocado. It was proper and it was sublime.

Rhina and Holger kept on making it harder and harder for us to leave. As a final treat (not that we needed any more), we went for some cake and tea before taking the train to the airport.

Reflection:

As much as the food, sights and activities were great during our trip, what made it unforgettable and truly wonderful was the company. Kelly and I had really been missing Rhina since she left London and seeing her made our little gang feel whole again. When you’re apart for a while, you worry about things becoming awkward but there was none of that. The six of us had what I can only describe as the most chilled, fun and food-filled break possible. Thank you Rhina and Holger for being fantastic hosts – we hope to repay the favour very soon. Thanks as well to Kelly and Grant for being great travel companions (we can’t wait fly off again with you two in the new year).

Here’s to making memories – PROST!