Like an ugly step-sister, Slovakia is often overshadowed by its trendy neighbor the Czech Republic. However, I found the less well-known half of the former Communist state to be just as intriguing and just as beautiful. Bratislava is somewhat off the beaten path for visitors to Europe, which is the main reason why I liked it. The winding streets of Bratislava evoke a calm not found in other major capitals. I don’t think I saw any cars in the narrow alleyways of the Old Town. Other  more...