It may have only been a few short days but my journey to Vienna for the World AIDS Conference 2010 in support of the Free Hugs 4 AIDS campaign was absolutely breathtaking.
From wandering the streets of the City of Vienna right through to hugging representatives from every single country in the world at the conference, I loved every single moment.
The Free Hugs 4 AIDS campaign is an initiative started by the good people at Vienna Health to help show support, respect and compassion for those people living with HIV and AIDS. For too long have these individuals suffered under so many misconceptions and fears about this disease - it was lovely to be able to show a little love and kindness to people who endure an unnecessary fear of contact.
It was also nice to have met so many fantastic Viennese people who shared not only their city, but their hugs and their local knowledge with me.
And introduced me to my new favourite food - the kasekrainer - my eyes are open!
Also - Austria brews amazing beer - for those of you inclined to imbibe a few cold ones when the time is right.
For more information, videos, photos and words of wonder - check out www.freehugs4aids.at
Now I'm finally home, it's time for me to have a shower.
[Slightly smelly] Hugs,
Juan