I know you're right. Beyond the other issues that may hinder these trips, it's mainly something to do with the mood. I dreamed and wanted to see Rome, Paris, and London in the 80s. What I liked was that era. I know now that it is relatively easy to get to those places but I know that there is not the same air and atmosphere that I wanted to see. Of course, the architecture and cityscape have remained, but I am nostalgic.

I saw that you went to Rome, you were impressed by the Fontana di Trevi. It's a marvel. I saw it in Fellini's film La Dolce Vita and I wanted to go there myself. From your photos, I saw what I had already heard. The tourist crowds. It kills the mystery and the moment.

From Mamaia to Veliko Tarnovo is a long way. From Bucharest, it's closer than getting to Sibiu. Unlike many who cross Bulgaria and are unhappy with the driving conditions, I like it in Bulgaria. It's less crowded and you don't have to go through all the villages. I relax when I go to Veliko or Balchik.

I know I'm old-fashioned, but I'm happy with what I get.