From Coffee in Cologne to Magnolias in B

Bright and early, I packed my bags, playing the all-too-familiar game of trying to fit all my freshly acquired coffee beans into my luggage. And we’re only at the first stop of many!

Before hitting the road, I took one last brisk walk to Schamong—because when the coffee is that good, a second visit is non-negotiable. With my travel provisions secured, I met up with Karl, and we set off towards Baden-Baden. The drive was smooth, uneventful, but filled with good conversation—the kind that makes a few hours on the road fly by.

Then we arrived. Holy shit, what a town! Baden-Baden is stunning. Magnolias in full bloom, grand 18th-century buildings, elegant plazas—this place just oozes history and charm. No wonder European royalty flocked here for centuries to enjoy the famous spas. Walking through the streets, it felt like stepping into another era, where everything is just a little more refined, a little more glamorous.

A short while later, my best friend Jule arrived, and suddenly, Baden-Baden got even better. There was so much to catch up on, and this setting felt like the perfect place to do it.

For dinner, we went to Leo’s, a cozy spot with amazing service. I had the bear garlic soup (which was as delicious as it was intriguing) and the Pinsa Pata Negra—the perfect way to end my first evening in this incredible town.Read more