Our European adventure took off early in the morning, departing from Porto Airport at 7 AM with Luxembourg as our first destination. After landing, we headed straight to the city center by train, eager to explore what this small yet fascinating country had to offer.
Our first stop was the Notre-Dame Cathedral, an impressive example of Gothic revival architecture nestled in the heart of Luxembourg City. From there, we continued to the National Museum of Archaeology, History and Art, where we immersed ourselves in the cultural and historical roots of the nation.
Lunchtime gave us a chance to recharge our energy for an afternoon walk through the city. Along the way, we passed by notable landmarks, including the Gëlle Fra monument, affectionately known as the “Golden Lady,” symbolizing the spirit of Luxembourg’s patriotism. A particularly touching moment of the day was visiting a Portuguese café, where we had the opportunity to see how the locals integrates foreign communities, specially our own. Their stories painted a picture of a diverse and welcoming Luxembourg, where inclusion is not just policy but daily practice.
As the sun began to set, we boarded a train to Strasbourg, our next destination. Upon arrival, we immediately noticed powerful signs of inclusion throughout the city. We came across a rainbow-colored crosswalk, a tribute to the LGBTQIA+ community, and observed a strong multicultural presence in the streets. A nearby refugee housing encampment reminded us of the city’s efforts to provide shelter and support to displaced individuals from around the world.
From historical landmarks to meaningful social reflections, our first day offered much more than sights -it offered a deep look into the values that shape the cities we’re visiting.
