First Journey Day 57: Echoes of Espresso

Date: October 20, 2023
Location: Kaunas, Lithuania

In Kaunas, Lithuania, autumn light gentles the city’s long pedestrian spine, Laisvės Alėja, and the river bends quiet and reflective. Cafés, pastry cases, and the Nemunas set today’s rhythm.

Autumn Light on Laisvės Alėja

Today, I found myself wandering the streets of Kaunas, a city that's a blend of history and modernity. The partly cloudy skies cast a soft, diffused light over Laisvės Alėja, making the long pedestrian street even more inviting. As I strolled, the rhythmic patter of my footsteps on the cobblestones was occasionally interrupted by the distant laughter of children or the chime of a church bell.

Quiet Moments at a Café

I was particularly drawn to the various cafes lining the street. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of baked pastries. I couldn't resist stopping at one of the cafes, where I indulged in a warm cuppa and a slice of šakotis, a traditional Lithuanian cake. The locals around me chatted animatedly, their conversations a melodious backdrop to my own thoughts.

By the Nemunas River

Later, I took a detour to the Nemunas River. The water, reflecting the partly cloudy sky, had a tranquil quality to it. I sat by the riverbank for a while, lost in thought, watching the occasional boat glide by.

A City Between Old and New

Kaunas, with its blend of the old and new, has left an indelible mark on me. The city's quiet charm, juxtaposed with its vibrant street life, provided a perfect setting for a day of exploration and introspection. As the day drew to a close, I felt a sense of contentment, grateful for the experiences and memories I've gathered.

Travel Notes

• Weather: Partly cloudy, highs of 12°C and lows of 6°C; soft, diffused afternoon light and a gentle chill that made the coffee taste warmer.
• Scents: Fresh espresso, buttery pastries, a hint of cool river air along the Nemunas.
• Sounds: Footsteps over cobblestones, the faint peal of church bells, children’s laughter threading through café chatter.
• Reflection: A day balanced between movement and pause—letting the city’s modest charms echo inside a simple cup.

Continue the Journey

You may also enjoy reading about yesterday’s quiet reflections in Vilnius, or another rain-dappled pause from later days in Lithuania.