One of the most fascinating concepts of Europe, for me, is how a mere river can separate two entirely different cultures with wildly varying languages, foods and customs.  

With Vienna shut down for a holiday, we decided to travel to Slovakia if anything just to say that we did.  We were treated to a delicious, savory meal, and I had the amazing experience of being able to translate for two strangers (an elderly tourist who only spoke German, and a Bratislavan shopgirl who was trying her best with English).