Cologne, or Köln in German, stands as one of Germany's most vibrant and historically rich cities. Located on the banks of the River Rhine, Cologne has long been a central hub for trade, culture, and religion, making it one of Europe's oldest and most significant urban centers. This essay explores the complex layers of Cologne's history, its cultural richness, and its architectural marvels, which together encapsulate the spirit of this remarkable city. Cologne's history stretches back over two millennia, with its origins rooted in the Roman Empire. Founded as a Roman colony in 50 AD under the name  Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium , Cologne quickly grew into a major urban center due to its strategic location along the Rhine. The city's Roman heritage is still evident today, with remnants like the Roman Praetorium and the ancient city wall. These archaeological treasures serve as a reminder of Cologne's importance as a provincial capital in Roman times. During t...

  With each sunrise over Tagus' tide, Hope is reborn, never to hide, In Olisipona's heart, resilience prevails, A testament to time, in whispered tales. Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city that bears the weight of centuries upon its cobbled streets and terracotta rooftops. It is a place where time seems to weave through the fabric of the city, blending ancient history with modernity in a seamless dance. To understand Lisbon is to embark on a journey through layers of culture, tradition, and resilience. At the heart of Lisbon lies a palpable sense of endurance, forged through trials and tribulations spanning centuries. From the devastating earthquake of 1755, which reduced much of the city to rubble, to the revolutions and transitions of the 20th century, Lisbon has borne witness to upheaval and transformation. Yet, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, it has rebuilt itself time and again, its spirit unbroken and its character enriched by the scars of its past. But Lisbo...

   "ei kysyvä tieltä eksy" I encountered this Finnish adage first time in an essay on Finland. It means “who asks for the road does not get lost”. If I elaborate more, it actually points towards the Finnish mental model where Finns normally don't ask much advice as they prefer to be self-sufficient and don't want to disturb others. This is exactly me – an introvert, prefers to remain within and often misunderstood as snobbish. I landed Helsinki first time in early March of 2019 on a business trip. That was my first Europe travel. I can still remember the exact date – 8 March 2019, first time witnessing a snow washed capital. A city with traffic signals where cars are stopped when pedestrians about to cross the road even if the signal is green. A city with traffic signals where pedestrians wait for the red signal patiently even if no cars around. A city with no garbage on street except cigarette butts. A city with more Sauna than human. A city crazy for ice-hockey and ...