EuroTrip (Part Two)
In April 2016, I packed my bags and set off on my second trip to Europe—this time with a little more time to explore. What started as a solo adventure turned into a whirlwind of history, culture, food, and the kind of memories that stay with you long after your passport’s been stamped.
Grab a drink—because this story has range.
✈️ From Richmond to D.C. (and Across the Pond)
It all began on Monday, April 18th, when I walked—yes, walked—from my apartment in Shockoe Bottom to Main Street Station in Richmond to catch a northbound Amtrak. Watching the restoration of the station as I waited was a vibe in itself.
I arrived at Alexandria Station, walked to King Street Metro, and took the train into D.C. to visit my cousin and explore a bit of our nation’s capital. Tuesday was all about sights: the Capitol, the memorials, the chambers of Congress, and even a stop at my Representative’s office. Nothing like getting inspired before heading abroad.
🇬🇧 Two Full Days in London? Cheers to That.
On Wednesday, I flew overnight to London, landing early Thursday, April 21st. My first trip here had been a rushed 18 hours, half of which I slept off the jet lag—so this time, I made every minute count.
After dropping off my bag at my aunt and uncle’s place in Chelsea, I dove straight into the history:
The Tower of London, built in 1066 by William the Conqueror
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, London's oldest pub (est. 1538)
London Bridge
Palace of Westminster for some good ol’ Brexit debate
Churchill’s War Rooms, an absolute must for WWII buffs like myself
Buckingham Palace, just in time for the Changing of the Guard
After a power nap, I took the Tube to Piccadilly Circus, which is basically London’s Time Square, and then wandered into Soho for a proper night out. I made some friends, hopped from bar to bar with the locals, and at 4 a.m., realized my phone had died just as I ordered my Uber. Naturally, I walked home—tracing the River Thames like a true adventurer, passing Chelsea, overshooting it, backtracking, and eventually collapsing into bed. Classic.
The next day, I explored Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, Royal Albert Hall, and found myself at The Lamb & Flag for another pint (this time, a London Pride). Caught up with a friend for some fish and chips and turned in early—because the next morning, I was heading to France.
🇫🇷 Paris: Palaces, Art & Wine (Heavy on the Wine)
Bright and early, I boarded the train from Victoria Station, through the Chunnel, and into Paris. After landing, I picked up a rental car—because yes, I wanted the full “driving in a foreign country” experience.
First stop? Versailles. Touring the palace and wandering the Hall of Mirrors was like stepping into a movie. Would I DJ a wedding there? In a heartbeat.
Later that evening, I drove around Tour d’Eiffel, the Arc de Triomphe (read: chaos), Champs-Élysées, and the Place de la Concorde, ending with wine and olives at a local café. After parking the car, I took the Metro to meet up with some friends at a local bar. Light night, full heart.
The next day was packed:
Le Louvre (absolutely massive and gorgeous)
A scenic walk from Champs-Élysées to Arc de Triomphe
Quiche, salad, a baguette, cappuccino, and a Pelforth at a café
A trip to the top of Tour d’Eiffel—where I made more new friends and toasted the view with a post-sunset pint
🇧🇪 Brussels: Beers, Buildings & Euro Politics
The next morning, I boarded the Thalys high-speed train (170 mph!) to Brussels. After checking into La Maison Haute—an adorable boutique stay—I wandered through the city:
Palais Royal de Bruxelles
The European Parliament (shoutout to the E.U.)
Finally arriving at Grand Place, a jaw-dropping square dating back to the 14th century
Dinner was more quiche and a Hoegaarden, followed by a flight of Belgian beers at a nearby pub. Leffe and Tripel Karmeliet were the standouts. I strolled back to Grand Place that night to see it lit up—it was even more magical after dark.
🇳🇱 Amsterdam: Bikes, Beers & King's Day Madness
My final train ride took me to Amsterdam, where I quickly realized this was the bike capital of Europe. Dropped off my bag at the hostel and hit the canals, which were as beautiful as they are chaotic.
I checked out the Heineken Experience, met up with some friends from back home, explored a few bars (and a few "coffee shops"), and even wandered through the Red Light District—which was, uh, eye-opening.
That night, my phone was stolen while chatting with two strangers. Total rookie move, but thankfully, my friends had my back (and knew where I was staying).
The next day was King’s Day—essentially the Dutch 4th of July. No phone, no problem. We drank and danced through the streets, joined boat parties blasting music through the canals (yes, one was playing Nelly), and soaked up the joyful chaos. It was easily one of the best travel days of my life. Some memories are a little fuzzy… but that’s part of the fun.
Back to Reality (Without a Phone)
I flew back to London without a phone. Then back to D.C., still without a phone. I was supposed to crash at a friend’s place but couldn’t get in touch. So I slept at the Alexandria Station. Once the Metro reopened, I rode the loop until my train home.
Humbled? Yes. Grateful? Absolutely.
Wouldn’t change a thing.
Until the Next Adventure…
If you want pics, tips, or details about any stop on the journey, feel free to hit me up.
Cheers to the next story.