People say the best way to find yourself is to go to a place where no one knows your name. Up until last month I had never been on a plane before, never been on a long distance passenger/commuter train, and never trailed too far from comfort zones to the point of being truly alone. I finally seized the opportunity, and got on a plane to Europe.  I met people on my flights, on trains, on metros, on streets, and at the places where I stayed. I also saw many great pieces of art and architecture.

Visiting Rome gave me great insight on the greatest pieces from antiquity. The Pantheon was quite possible my favorite building. Entering the interior space creates such an indescribable feeling. The way the light enters the space through the oculus and traverses through the building gives a surreal effect.

My time in Florence was short but packed with conversation and visual stimulation. I arrived late at night, was invited to a dinner party where I met some great people, and ate some amazing home cooked meals. Next day, I toured the city and saw many great works by Brunelleschi – I did not leave disappointed.

Paris was wonderful. I loved the museums. I don’t think I’ve ever been moved by a piece of art as I was when I stepped into the Claude Monet exhibit at the Musée d’Orsay.

All in all Europe was worth visiting, great architecture, great art, great food, and most of all great people.

I didn’t quite start missing home until the night before I was to journey back to Texas. I specifically asked my mother to have barbacoa tacos and a fanta ready for me when I arrived, and to my relief she welcomed me with exactly what I requested.

~Fabian Mancha