(opinion article)

Let’s be honest, for Ukrainians right now, travel isn’t exactly a breeze. Gone are the days of spontaneous weekend getaways to Rome or quick flights to soak up the Parisian sun. Planes, once a symbol of freedom and exploration, are grounded for many of us.

But here’s the thing: travel restrictions haven’t dampened my wanderlust one bit. As a 22-year-old Ukrainian who’s been lucky enough to visit different countries, I just returned from a trip to Prague, and let me tell you, it was incredible. Sure, it wasn’t a quick hop on a plane. Buses and trains became my new chariots, adding extra hours (and sometimes discomfort) to the journey.

Yet, despite the hurdles, there’s a certain magic to this new way of traveling. The slower pace allows you to appreciate the journey itself, watching landscapes change and soaking in the local vibes. And let’s not forget the sense of accomplishment that washes over you when you finally reach your destination after a long and, frankly, adventurous trek.

Don’t get me wrong, wouldn’t it be amazing if travel was free or if teleportation existed? Imagine exploring the Great Barrier Reef one day and scaling the Swiss Alps the next! But the truth is, the challenges we face as Ukrainians right now only make those hard-earned trips even more special. Every new city and every cultural encounter becomes a treasured memory, a testament to our unwavering desire to see the world.

So, don’t let the limitations discourage you. Explore alternative routes, embrace the adventure of the journey, and most importantly, never lose sight of that spark that ignites your wanderlust. Trust me, when you finally stand on that Charles Bridge in Prague, or any foreign landmark for that matter, the feeling of accomplishment and the beauty of the new experience will make every bump on that long train ride completely worth it.