Europe

If you’re wondering where to go on your next vacation, look no further than the ultimate European Road Trip! This incredible journey will take you through some of the most picturesque and awe-inspiring destinations. From historical monuments, stunning beaches, and charming villages, this road trip has something to offer everyone. Read on to find out which must-see stops you should include in your itinerary!

Introduction

Whether you’re looking to explore the storied capitals of Western Europe or venture off the beaten path to see some of the Continent’s lesser-known gems, a road trip is the perfect way to see all that Europe has to offer. And with so many varied countries and attractions to choose from, planning the ultimate European road trip can be daunting. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of some of the must-see stops along the way.

Planning the Road Trip

Before setting out on any road trip, it’s important to have a plan. This is especially true for a road trip through Europe, which can be daunting given the sheer number of things to see and do. To help you plan your own European road trip, we’ve put together a list of must-see stops along the way.

Start by mapping out your route. You’ll want to consider what cities or countries you want to visit, and how long you want to spend in each one. Then, start thinking about which specific attractions you want to see in each place. Once you have a rough itinerary planned out, you can start booking accommodation and transportation.

Next, start researching the best things to do in each stop on your road trip. Look up popular tourist attractions as well as hidden gems that only locals know about. Make sure to also check out reviews and recommendations from other travelers. With all of this information in hand, you can start planning your perfect European road trip!

Must-See Cities for Your European Road Trip

There are so many incredible cities to see in Europe, it can be hard to narrow down your options. But if you’re planning a road trip, these are some of the must-see cities along the way.

Paris: Of course, Paris is a must-see city for any European trip. The City of Light is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame Cathedral. There’s also an endless array of museums, art galleries, and boutiques to explore.

Rome: Rome is another can’t-miss city on a European road trip. This historic city is filled with ancient ruins like the Colosseum and the Vatican, as well as baroque churches and fountains. And don’t forget to enjoy some authentic Italian cuisine while you’re here!

Vienna: Vienna is a romantic city known for its classical music and grandiose architecture. Stroll through parks like Prater or Belvedere Palace, or spend an afternoon at one of Vienna’s many museums or art galleries.

Attractions and Activities to Include on Your Itinerary

As you plan your perfect European road trip, be sure to include some of these must-see attractions and activities. From the beaches of Croatia to the canals of Venice, there’s something for everyone.

Some of the top attractions and activities to include on your itinerary are:

• Relaxing on the beach in Croatia
• Exploring the canals of Venice
• Taking in the sights of Rome
• Visiting the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam
• Seeing the Black Forest in Germany
• Driving through Switzerland’s scenic Alps

Accommodation Tips for Travelers

If you’re planning a road trip through Europe, you’ll want to make sure you have all your accommodation sorted in advance. Here are some top tips for finding the perfect place to stay:

1. Use online booking platforms: There are lots of great online booking platforms that can help you find accommodation to suit your budget and preferences.

2. Read reviews: Before booking anywhere, be sure to read reviews from previous guests to get an idea of what to expect.

3. Search for discounts: Many accommodation providers offer discounts if you book in advance or during off-peak times.

4. Consider your location: When selecting accommodation, think about its proximity to the attractions and activities you want to do. You don’t want to waste time travelling long distances each day.

Food Recommendations from Locals in Each City

In each city you’ll visit on your road trip, be sure to ask the locals for their food recommendations. They’ll be able to tell you about all the best hidden gem restaurants that serve up traditional dishes from their region. Here are some of the must-try regional specialties from across Europe:

In Spain, be sure to try paella – a rice dish cooked with seafood or meat and vegetables. In Portugal, try the national dish of bacalhau – salt cod served with potatoes and greens. In Italy, you can’t go wrong with any of the delicious pasta dishes on offer. And in Greece, be sure to sample some traditional gyros – lamb or chicken wrapped in pita bread with salad and tzatziki sauce.

Wherever you go on your European road trip, make sure to try out some of the local cuisine – it’s one of the best ways to truly experience the culture of a place!

Budgeting for a European Road Trip

Budgeting for a European road trip can be tricky, but it’s definitely doable! Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Plan ahead and research your route. This will help you estimate how much gasoline or diesel you’ll need and give you a better idea of where to find the best prices.

2. Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses on any trip, so try to find ways to save here. Couchsurfing or camping are great options if you’re on a tight budget.

3.Food can also be a big expense, but there are ways to save here as well. Self-catering is always cheaper than eating out, and it’s easy to find healthy and affordable food options at local markets.

4. Entertainment costs can quickly add up, so again, try to find free or cheap activities wherever possible. Walking tours, visiting local parks, and people-watching are all great (and free!) ways to enjoy your surroundings.

5 . Finally, remember that a little bit of planning can go a long way in helping you stick to your budget. With careful planning and a bit of creativity, you can definitely enjoy an amazing European road trip without breaking the bank!

Conclusion

Taking a European road trip is one of the most exhilarating experiences one can ever have. Whether you plan to visit for a couple of weeks or even months, there are so many amazing places to explore and memories that will last a lifetime. From awe-inspiring monuments in Rome to delicious dishes in Spain, there’s no shortage of incredible sites and attractions as you journey through Europe’s vibrant cities and stunning countryside. Put your adventure hat on, fill up the car with petrol, and set off—you won’t be disappointed!

If you want to explore the breathtaking and awe-inspiring Ancient Wonders of Greece, then 2023 is the year to do it! In this blog we will take you on an epic journey of exploration, uncovering the incredible history behind these awe-inspiring sites and sharing our personal experiences along the way. Read on and get ready for a trip down memory lane as you discover why The Ancient Wonders of Greece should be your must-visit destination in 2023!

Introduction to the Ancient Wonders of Greece

When one begins to explore the ancient wonders of Greece, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. With so many incredible places to see and things to do, where does one even start? This article will serve as your introduction to the ancient wonders of Greece, providing an overview of some of the most iconic and significant sites in the country.
From the world-famous Acropolis in Athens to the stunningly preserved ruins of Olympia, there is much to explore in Greece. And while you may not be able to see everything in one trip, this guide will help you plan an epic journey to experience the best of what this amazing country has to offer.

Planning Your Journey: What to Do and Where to Go

To plan your journey to Greece and experience the ancient wonders of this incredible country, there are a few things you should do and places you should go. First, brush up on your history so that you can appreciate the historical significance of the sites you’ll be visiting. Then, start planning your trip by deciding where in Greece you want to go and what ancient sites you want to see. Once you have a rough plan, begin booking your travel arrangements and accommodation so that everything is ready for your journey.

When you’re finally in Greece, waste no time in exploring all that this stunning country has to offer. From the Acropolis in Athens to the ruins of Olympia, there is so much to see and do. Take your time to wander through the streets of ancient cities, explore temples and museums, and soak up the unique atmosphere of Greece. With a little planning and effort, your journey to Greece will be an unforgettable experience.

Transportation Options: Flying, Cruises and Ferries

The most common way to get to Greece is by flying into Athens International Airport. Flights from the US typically take around 11 hours. Once you’re in Athens, you can take a direct flight to one of Greece’s many islands, or take a ferry.

Cruises are another popular option for getting to Greece. Many cruises originating in the Mediterranean will make stops in Greek ports, such as Athens, Mykonos and Santorini. Ferries are the cheapest and most common way to travel between the Greek islands. There are numerous ferry routes connecting the different islands, with schedules varying depending on the time of year.

Accommodations: Hotels, Villas, Hostels and Camping

There are many accommodation options available when traveling to Greece. You can choose from hotels, villas, hostels, and camping. Hotels are a great option for those who want the luxury and amenities that come with them. Villas are perfect for those who want more space and privacy. Hostels are a great option for budget travelers. Camping is a great way to experience nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Sightseeing & Activities: Archaeological Sites, Mountains, Beaches and Nightlife

Greece is home to some of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world, such as the Acropolis in Athens and the ancient city of Olympia. Visitors can also explore a variety of mountains, beaches and nightlife options throughout the country.

The Acropolis is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Athens. The site includes the Parthenon, Erechtheion and Propylaea, as well as a number of other ancient buildings and temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited archaeological sites in Greece.

Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and home to 12 of the country’s peaks over 2,000 meters. The mountain range offers stunning views and hiking trails for all levels of ability. Mount Olympus was also home to the Greek gods according to mythology.

There are many beaches to choose from in Greece, whether you’re looking for a secluded spot or a lively beach party scene. Some popular beaches include Mykonos, Santorini and Crete.

Greece also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants to keep you entertained into the early hours. Athens is particularly known for its lively nightlife, but there are options all around Greece if you want to experience some traditional culture or dance the night away.

Key Travel Tips For Exploring Safely & Comfortably

When traveling to Greece, it is important to keep in mind a few key tips in order to have the most comfortable and safe experience possible.

Firstly, be sure to pack light. Greece can be quite warm, especially in the summer months, so you won’t want to be lugging around a heavy suitcase. A small backpack or duffle bag should suffice. Secondly, make copies of all your important documents, such as your passport and driver’s license. Keep one copy with you at all times, and leave another copy with a trusted friend or family member back home. This way, if you lose any of your documents while on your trip, you’ll have backups.

Thirdly, familiarize yourself with common scams before arriving in Greece. Pickpockets are prevalent in busy areas such as tourist attractions and public transportation hubs. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables close to you at all times.

When To Visit & What To Pack

The best time to visit Greece is between April and May, or September and October.
In Spring, the weather is milder, the flowers are in bloom, and the tourist season has not yet begun.
Temperatures in Autumn are still pleasant, but without the crowds.
However, if you’re set on visiting during peak season (June-August), make sure to book your accommodation well in advance as it fills up quickly.

As for what to pack, a good pair of comfortable walking shoes is a must as you’ll be doing a lot of exploring.
Sunscreen is also essential as Greece can get very hot during the summer months.
Other than that, just pack your usual holiday clothing – shorts, t-shirts, dresses etc.

Conclusion

Greece and its ancient culture has been an inspiring force around the world for centuries. With our 2023 Epic Journey to experience the Ancient Wonders of Greece, we invite you to explore and embrace this powerful region, gain insight on its history, and be enthralled with its most precious monuments. We guarantee that in just one tour you will have a comprehensive understanding of what makes Greece so special and magnificent. All participants are promised not only memorable adventures but also invaluable experiences they’ll cherish forever. So join us on our journey and become part of something truly epic!

Which European capital has the best quality of life? As for Europeans themselves, it’s pretty much a mixed bag. The EU-life (a project providing insights into living conditions) research team has evaluated how well the happiness and satisfaction levels of residents vary from one corner of the Continent to another, which includes everything from health to work-life balance.

Where are the best quality of life cities in Europe

There are many different factors that contribute to the quality of life in a city, and what is important to one person may not be as important to another. However, there are some objective measures that can be used to compare cities in Europe in terms of quality of life.

One such measure is the Mercer Quality of Living Survey, which ranks cities based on factors like safety, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and environment. In the most recent ranking, Vienna came out on top as the city with the best quality of life in Europe. Zurich and Munich also ranked highly, coming in at second and third place respectively.

Another measure of quality of life is the Eurostat Regional Mean Centre Index, which looks at factors like employment rates, disposable income, and educational attainment. Again, Vienna comes out on top as the European city with the best quality of life according to this measure.

So if you’re looking for a city in Europe with a high quality of life, Vienna is probably your best bet. But other cities like Zurich and Munich are also worth considering.

What can affect a person’s quality of life?

There are many factors that can affect a person’s quality of life. Some of these factors include:

-where they live
-their income and standard of living
-their health
-their level of education
-their social and family life
– their work/life balance

All of these factors can play a role in how happy and fulfilled a person feels. For example, someone who lives in a affluent area with good schools and access to quality healthcare is likely to have a higher quality of life than someone who lives in a poverty-stricken area with little opportunity for advancement. Likewise, someone who is healthy and has a strong social support system is likely to have a higher quality of life than someone who is isolated and unhealthy.

What does the future look like?

There are a number of factors that contribute to quality of life, and Europe has a lot to offer in terms of each. In terms of economic opportunities and stability, Europe has been a leader for centuries and continues to be so. In terms of social cohesion and supports, Europe also ranks highly. One area where Europe lags behind other regions is in environmental sustainability – but even here, there are many initiatives underway to address the issue.

As we look to the future, then, it is clear that Europe will continue to be a great place to live and work. The continent has an impressive track record in terms of human development and quality of life, and there is every reason to believe that this will continue. With continued investment in social cohesion and environmental sustainability, the future looks bright for Europe – and for those who call it home.

Conclusion

Overall, it seems that the quality of life in Europe is quite good. There are a few countries that stand out as having the best quality of life, but overall, Europeans seem to enjoy a high standard of living. If you’re thinking about moving to Europe, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to find a country with a quality of life that suits your needs.

There are countless ways to find your home away from home while traveling, and the beauty of it all is that you’ll never have to work too hard to find a place that makes you feel at home. With this in mind, top 10 international mountain hikes, hidden gems around the world, and favorite family friendly hotels will round out this list!

Introduction

When it comes to choosing the best tourist attractions, hotels come in many flavors. You can find historic …

When it comes to choosing the best tourist attractions, hotels come in many flavors. You can find historic hotels from all over the world as well as luxurious resorts that offer an unforgettable stay. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque cityscape or an action-packed holiday, there’s an accommodation for you.

The Eiffel Tower – Paris, France
If landmark attractions are your thing, then don’t miss the top spot on this list – the Eiffel Tower! This majestic structure is a must-see for tourists visiting Paris, and a stay at one of the many Parisian hotels near the tower is sure to make your trip more memorable. Options include The Hôtel du Louvre and The Hôtel MEURICE – both of which offer stunning views of the tower from their rooftop decks.
But if you want to get up close and personal with history, then consider staying at one of Paris’ lesser-known budget hotels like Hôtel de La Veuve Clicquot.

Four Best Tourist Attractions

1. The Palace of Versailles – If you’re looking to see some of the most iconic architecture in all of France, look no further than the Palace of Versailles. This beautiful palace was built by Louis XIV and is a must-see for any tourist visiting Paris.

2. The Eiffel Tower – Paris doesn’t have to be without a famous landmark, and the Eiffel Tower is definitely one of them. Originally built as a train station, this iconic tower now exists as one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. From the top, you can see all of Paris below you!

3. Notre Dame Cathedral – Another Parisian landmark that’s definitely worth seeing is Notre Dame Cathedral. This impressive church is one of the largest and most iconic in all of Europe, and it’s well worth a visit if you’re in the city.

4. The Louvre Museum – Finally, on our list is the Louvre Museum. This massive museum contains an impressive amount of art from all over history, and it’s well worth spending a few hours exploring its many halls.

Things to Do in Paris

If you’re looking for tourist attractions in Paris, you can’t go wrong with the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame de Paris, and the Louvre Museum. But if you want to get out of the city for a bit and see some real France, there are plenty of attractions waiting for you just outside of Paris.

Some great places to visit if you’re interested in wine include Chateau de Chambord (famous for its wine), Haut-Brion (home to some of the world’s most expensive wines), and Sancerre (a wine-growing region located in the southwest of France). If historical sites are more your speed, head to Reims (the birthplace of Joan of Arc) or Disneyland Paris. Finally, if you have children in tow, make sure to visit the Disney theme parks in both resort areas—Paris and Walt Disney World—or amusement park rides like EuroDisney at Disneyland Resort Paris.

Things to Do in Barcelona

If you’re looking to soak up some of Barcelona’s historic flavor, there are plenty of things to do in the city center. Start by browsing the pedestrian-only Ramblas district for a taste of the old world charm. Follow it up with a trip to La Pedrera, a 15th century limestone tower that provides an impressive bird’s-eye view of the city. If you’re looking for something a little more touristy, head to the waterfront for a stroll along La Ramblas Promenade or take a ride on the funicular up Montjuic Mountain. In terms of hotels, it really depends on your budget and what type of traveler you are. For those on a tighter budget, try opting for one of the hostels in the city center or consider staying outside of the center in one of Barcelona’s charming coastal towns like Calella de Palafrugell or Sitges. For those with more money to spend, consider checking out some of Barcelona’s top luxury hotels like The Ritz Carlton o La Valletta.

Tips for Choosing a Hotel, Transportation and Rental Cars

When traveling to a new city, it’s important to have a game plan. By following these tips, you can make sure that your vacation goes off without any hitches.

Hotels
Before you book your hotel, be sure to research which hotels are in the best areas for sightseeing. This can help you avoid staying in tourist traps or areas with sketchy neighborhoods.

Transportation
If you’re renting a car, be sure to compare rates and read the fine print before signing anything. Some companies charge damages if the car is returned late or if it’s not in the same condition as when it was rented.

Rental Cars
When renting a car, make sure to ask about damage waiver and theft protection policies. If something does go wrong, these protections can help cover your costs.

Money Saving Tips

If you’re looking to save money on your vacation, here are a few tips to help.

-Start planning early. Book your hotel and car rentals as soon as you can, and then cancel or change anything that isn’t essential. The earlier you make your reservations, the better deals you’ll likely be able to find.

-Check out the local tourist attractions. Many of them offer free admission on certain days or during certain times of the day. Explore neighbouring towns and villages if you have time.

-Save money on food by preparing some of your own meals at home. Bring snacks and beverages with you in case there’s a delay or shortage of sustenance on the trip.

-Request discounts when travelling with others. If you’re travelling with a group, ask your travel agent for group rates on hotels, car rentals, and other attractions. You could also split expenses equally among all participants in order to reduce costs.

For those who are travel freaks, Bollywood romance lovers and watch passionate then Switzerland is always on the top of their favorite country list. Officially known as the Swiss Confederation, the country is a federal republic in the Europe. The nation comprises of 26 cantons and further the city of Bern is the seat of the federal authorities. Located in the Western-Central Europe, the country shares its boundary with Italy in the south, Germany to the north, France to the west, and Austria and Liechtenstein the east direction.

Switzerland is a landlocked country which has a geographical division between the Swiss Plateau, the Alps, and the Jura. The total spanning area of the nation is 41,285 km2 (15,940 sq mi). Although the major part of the country is occupied by the Alps Mountain but the Swiss population which is roughly 8 million is concentrated on the plateau only. On the same plateau, the largest cities are found; among them are the two global cities and economic centers Zürich and Geneva.

Culture of Switzerland–
Out of all the major languages, 3 of them are official in Switzerland. The characterization of the Swiss culture is done by the diversity of the country. This diversity is reflected via a number of traditional customs of the country because a country in some forms is fully and culturally related to the adjacent country that shares its language. Also, the country itself is being sourced in the culture of Western Europe. The linguistically detached Romansh culture in Graubünden from eastern Switzerland organizes an omission as it persists only in the upper valleys of the Inn and the Rhine which strives to preserve its exceptional linguistic ritual.

The country is notably a home to some of the contributors in the field of architecture, art, music, and sciences. Additionally, the nation hosts a number of creative persons during time of unrest or war in Europe. Around 1000 museum are distributed in the whole nation and this number has tripled since the year 1950. The most significant and rich cultural performances organized every year are the Paléo Festival, the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Locarno International Film Festival, the Lucerne Festival, and the Art Basel.

Literature-
Post formation of the foundation for Confederation in the year 1291 which was almost exclusively composed of German-speaking regions. Also, the earliest forms of literature are in German. In the 18th century, in Bern, the fashionable language was French but the impact of the French-speaking associates and subject estates was more identified than before.

Out of all the classics of Swiss German literature, the most important ones are Gottfried Keller (1819–1890) and Jeremias Gotthelf (1797–1854). The acknowledged giants of 20th century Swiss literature are Friedrich Dürrenmatt (1921–90) and Max Frisch (1911–91), whose repertory comprises of Das Versprechen (The Pledge) and Die Physiker (The Physicists) which was released in the year 2001 as a Hollywood film.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Acash Chaudhary

Spain, located in the Southwest Europe, is the fifth largest country in the world. From small towns to lively islands, Spain offers everything that a human could wish to enjoy on their holiday. A very diverse, highly developed, full of life and loyal country to live a wonderful life. It offers such beautiful landscapes that awaken the soul. This country has a calm lifestyle, it is rich in art and culture and the nightlife, food and festivals make it an astonishing European country.

Well for Indians, Spain is no such a new country as we already have explored most of the part of Spain. Yes, we all have. Remember the Bollywood movie, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Yes the same movie where Hritik Roshan, Abhay Deol and Farhan Akhtar does spectacular adventures all around the country.

Daily life in Spain moves at a slow pace and runs till late. Spain is attractive, compulsive and energetic country, which can make anybody, fall in love with it. Providing people with lively, active and free spirited cities like Barcelona and Madrid with beautiful landscapes and culture.

The green capital Madrid has many medieval and historic building, which tells the tales of back in time. It also houses museums, sculptures and monuments. And the city has various beautiful parks and lush green gardens. Being a capital city of Spain, Madrid acts as the political, technological, economic and cultural center of Spain. Barcelona just like Madrid is famous for its late night parties and amazing historic streets. You’ll find a lot of history here in Spain, and it is named as the third country in world with most heritage sites. This is a country with music in its soul, a profound love for fine food and beautiful landscapes, and a artistic talent to celebrate all the wonderful things in life.

The best festival to witness in Spain is La Tomatina, held every year in month of August. In this festival, thousands of people gather in this small town and throw tons of tomatoes at each other. It is the most messy and fun festival held in Spain. Another major attraction for tourists is the bullring. Bullfight is held every year in month of March and October. It attracts lots of tourist as it host the largest bullring in whole Spain, Las Ventas that was established in 1929. Held in July in Pamplona, The bullfight attracts various foreign tourists, who love to watch and enjoy those wild bulls running after peoples. Both these festivities we have seen in the Bollywood movie, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.

For people who love loud music and enjoy wild parties should surely travel to Ibiza. Ibiza is an island in Spain. It offers the best beach parties and the European DJ’s keep no stone unturned to make beaches a holy place for club lovers.

The mountains Pyrenees gives the most breathtaking view from above. Its covered with small villages, mountain walking tracks and skiing can be enjoyed with great zeal. The other mountain ranges in Spain are Sierra Nevada, which is a perfect hike point.

Guggenheim Museum in Biblao, is the world famous museum which has captivating exhibits of modern art. Though if you are not interested in museums one can go there just to admire the beauty of the building, which was created by Frank Gehry,

The Great Cathedral and Mosque with its giant arches, rich marble floors, affluent gilded prayer niches, and the awe-inspiring shrine of Byzantine mosaics take you back in time when Córdoba was under Muslim influence.

San Sebastián located in the center of the Basque area of Spain, this place has a remarkable beach and nightlife. Moreover, architecture makes it one of the most beautiful and unique cities in all of Spain.

The Spanish cuisines are combination of different dishes according to climate, culture and geography. The most delightful dish is sea food, the food that comes from the surrounding water bodies. Sports are heavenly enjoyed and played in Spain. There are two most affluent football clubs clubs in the world, “Real Madrid C.F” and “FC Barcelona”.

Transportation in Spain is marked by substantial network of Railways, Roads, buses, Metros, Air routes and ports. Though Spain has an amazing and fast railway system, but its quite expensive, so I would prefer you to travel via buses, which are equally pleasant but cheaper.

There’s something about Spain that attracts to everybody be it the inheritance of a melting pot of cultures or the site of numerous castles, palaces and dazzling islands which have often been used as a setting for many international film productions. Anytime is good to visit Spain as you will love it and will surely return home discovering new worlds, you can party till dawn in such a place as the sun always shines till late.

Spain offers the best possible surroundings in the entire world and it has taken itself a long history with itself, which has made it such a vibrant and colorful country in the world. Popularly known as the party hub, this country is a must visit once in a lifetime to party like there is no tomorrow.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Bandana Gautam
I am an Mba student, who loves to write in my spare time. Food and Travelling makes me happy like nothing else in life. I am a believer, dreamer and a reader. I am an enthusiast of wanderlust and want to die travelling. Feel free to contact me @ [email protected]. My only motto in life is Live, Laugh and Love…live it up!

France is a standout amongst the most topographically different nations in Europe. Its urban areas contain a portion of the best fortunes in Europe, its farmland is prosperous and very much tended and it brags many significant vacation destinations, similar to Paris, the French Riviera, the castles of the Loire Valley, the Atlantic shorelines, Brittany and Normandy, the winter sport resorts of the French Alps. France is eminent for its gastronomy, history, culture and mold.

Dialing Code:
France worldwide dialing code 33 is trailed by a territory code.

Flag Information:
The banner – the tricolore – comprises of three vertical groups of equivalent width, showing the nation’s national hues: blue, white and red. The blue band is situated closest the banner staff, the white in the center, and the red on the outsides.

Currency:
France has the euro (€) as its sole currency. One euro is isolated into 100 pennies.

Capital:
Paris, most populous city, is the capital of France, situated on the stream Seine in northern metropolitan France.

Food:
Chinese, Vietnamese, even Thai diners are promptly accessible in Paris, either as normal eateries or “traiteurs”. Indeed, even there are bland pizza and pasta parlors. One will discover North African and Greek and Lebanese sustenance. The universal cheeseburger diners are likewise accessible.

Shopping Place or Things:
Paris is one of the finest urban areas on the planet for shopping. While stores and hypermarkets are the primary retail outlets for regular shopping all through France, little customary foodstuffs, even totally autonomous outlets, still make due in old towns and especially in little nation towns.

Popular Festival:
French love a celebration: festivity is established somewhere down in their way of life, and there’s dependably the guarantee of an energizing occasion. Time your trek to France well, and you could blend with the rich and renowned at the acclaimed Cannes Film Festival, or just make like local people and commend the uprising of current France on Bastille Day.

Religion:
Significant religions honed in France incorporate Catholic Christianity, Islam, Judaism, different branches of Protestantism, Hinduism, Russian Orthodoxy, Armenian Christianity, and Sikhism amongst others, making it a multi confession booth nation.

Temperature:
The months June, July, August and September have decent climate with a decent normal temperature. In any case, by and large, the hottest month is July and the coolest month is December. Whereas, the wettest month is May and February is the driest month.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Vaishali Garg
My creativity is my art, and writing is my passion. I am a freelance writer and love to spend most of my time in blogging, reading and poetry writing. Being wanderlust, I enjoy travelling. I like to explore new places, new culture and new lifestyle and updating the same over here. You may also catch me at [email protected].

Officially known by the name of Italian Republic, Italy is a unitary parliamentary republic in Europe. The country survives on an area of 301,338 km2 (116,347 sq mi) and largely has a temperate seasonal climate or Mediterranean climate. It’s the shape of Italy which is why it is often referred to as lo Stivale. With a population of around 61 million people, the country id the 3rd most populous EU member state.

Precisely speaking, Italy is located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea and shares open land borders with Slovenia, France, San Marino, Switzerland, Austria, and Vatican City.

The famous saying, “when in Rome, do as Romans do” is likely to be the reason that can make you pay a visit to this country. With places to roam such as colosseum and the Roma forum where great rulers like Nero, Julius Caesar, and Romulus once ruled, the capital city of Italy is a place that comes under a “must visit place list”.

The capital city, Rome has around 2.9 million residents making it the country’s largest and 4th most populated city in the Union of Europe. The city is positioned in the central-western division of the Italian Peninsula, inside Lazio (Latium) and along the banks of Tiber river. The Vatican City is an autonomous country which geographically is placed within the city borders of Rome, the only present example of a country found within a city. This is the only reason why Rome has been often designated as the capital of two states.

The country is quite versatile in terms of cultural diversity. The following heading will take you on a tour of the same-

Architecture:
The architectural style of the nation is accounted from the classification by period and also by religion as the unification of Italy took place in the year 1861. This has generated a highly distinct and eclectic range of architectural patterns.

Visual Art:
The Visual Art of the country is a subset of the western painting history. The art of Rome was very much influenced by Greece and can in part be considered as a descendant of antiquated Greek painting. However, Roman art does have significantly unique features. The only existing Roman paintings are wall paintings and many are from villas in Campania, in Southern Italy.

Literature and Theatre:
The foundation of the contemporary Italian language was set by the Florentine poet Dante Alighieri, and his greatest work, the Divine Comedy, is recognised among the leading literary records produced in Europe. Also, celebrated literary figures in Italy such as the Giovanni Boccaccio, Giacomo Leopardi, Torquato Tasso, Petrarch, Alessandro Manzoni, and Ludovico Ariosto are in abundance.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Acash Chaudhary

Situated at the extreme end of the Old World, with no resources of it’s own, it makes one wonder how a cold and damp Britain ruled the worlds in days of yore. An island country, split into three main provinces – England, Wales and Northern Island, the country has much to offer for a tourist. Formally known as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United Kingdom consists of one main island – Great Britain encompassing England, Scotland, Wales; a part of the island of Ireland – Northern Island and other small islands like Isle of Wight located just south of England, Orkney and Shetland Islands in the north of Scotland, Isle of Man located between Great Britain and Ireland and the Channel Islands located between England the European landmass with islands like Isle of Skye acting as an annexure to the mainland complete the list.

Though there are many airports tagged as international, for all practical purposes, the five London airports – three in city and two outside – Heathrow, Gatwick, London City Airport, Stanstead and Luton are the main entry points into the country. Heathrow is the airport of choice, due to the proximity to the city and the choice of flights. It is about 20 miles from London city and takes around 25 minutes on a fast train.

London is a major destination in the international tourist circuit and consequently, it is more tourist friendly than many of the large cities in the world. Hotels abound all over the city catering all the cost ranges, all sorts of palates and artistic tastes. Also, English being the language of communication simplifies the matters even more.

London boasts of a well maintained and well-publicised tourist circuit. There are private tour operators catering all sorts of clientele – both generic and purpose specific. Grouping them together, Buckingham Palace, The Palace of Westminster, Westminster Abbey, Piccadilly Circus, Soho and Theatreland, Trafalgar Square, National Art Gallery and National Portrait Gallery, London Eye, Sea Life Aquarium and other Southbank attractions are the most important of the tourist preference. British Museum is just a stone’s throw away from there. If you are there at the time of the Queen’s birthday celebrations, you will be in time to watch the military performances both at Buckingham Palace and at Horse Guards Parade.
For those interested in shopping, Oxford Street and the Regent Street forking off from it
Other major tourist attractions in London include

• London Zoo, Lords Stadium, Madame Tussauds and Regent’s Park
• Tower of London with the Crown Jewels, Tower Bridge, Monument and HMS Belfast
• Wimbledon, Lords and the Oval, Rugby Stadium, Wembley Stadium and the Foot Ball Clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal for the sports buffs
• Greenwich Observatory, Cutty Sark, and the National Maritime Museum
• The Central London Parks. Except for Regents Park, they are almost in a continuation starting with Green Park and terminating at the Kensington Park, with Hyde Park as the largest one
• Kew Gardens
• St Paul’s Cathedral and Tate Modern
• South Kensington Museums – Natural History Museum, Victoria And Albert Museum and the Science Museum
• Imperial War Museum London

Soho, the riverside in Central London and Covent Garden are the perfect places for chilling off.

Besides this, London in particular and Britain, in general, have got a museum for almost every type of collectible. Also, the custom of conversion of the houses of famous people into museums is also strong.

Britain as such doesn’t have any particular choice of food – everything is allowed here and everything is available here. That is the advantage of being a global city. For an Indian, there is no problem whatsoever with food – Indian food is available in every nook and corner of Britain, not just London.

The most convenient mode of transport inside London is public transport. All the parts of the city are well connected by both bus, rail, and tube. Though the costs are a bit on the higher side, you can get either a one day pass as a tourist or top up a smart card (Oyster Card) for a week or the duration of your preference. Indian driving license is valid for a year in Britain and as a tourist, you can book your own car and drive your heart’s pleasure.

Though the focus of every tourist in the UK is London, there are sufficient places for the curious to explore. The best ways of moving in and out of the city are either by the national rail or hiring a private cab. London is connected to all parts of the main island through multiple railway terminuses, some of them like Marylebone, King’s Cross and Waterloo are architectural masterpieces in themselves. For a person to venture out of London, the main themes of tourism will be castles, museums, churches and nature. Till almost 1600, Britain was not a united country, with Scotland and Britain regularly sparring with each other. This, combined with the history of violence in the country ensured that the whole of the country is filled with large forts, some of the greatest being Tower of London, Dover Castle overlooking the English Channel, Cardiff Castle, Windsor Castle, Edinburgh Castle and the likes. Edinburgh Castle is one of the most fascinating ones in the country. It sits on the top of a boulder frowning upon the city of Edinburgh. The other important feature of this castle is that it houses the Scottish crown jewels. Famous for it’s military tattoo, Edinburgh is a must watch for those planning to visit Scotland. Windsor Castle is another – it is one of the official residences of the British Royalty. Being at a stone’s throw away from London, this is a favourite haunt for the visitors.

Britain, being one of the principal banner holders of Christianity in the world and a country with near 100% Christian population, by default, will boast of some fine churches, some of the most famous being London’s Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral, Bristol Abbey which has got the grave of Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Canterbury Cathedral being the head of the Anglican Church and the cathedrals in large places like Salisbury, Winchester, Gloucester, and York.

Large places like Bath with it’s Royal Crescent clubbed with Bath, Edinburgh-Glasgow-Stirling, Liverpool-Manchester, Birmingham are separate tourist circuits in itself. They have got their share of museums and serve as staging grounds for different tourist spots in the country. Additional attractions include the University towns of Oxford and Cambridge each offering splendid architectural views and important museums. The Isle of Wight is another standalone tourist place. It is an island south of England, within a visible distance of Southampton. It is famous for some breathtaking cliff views, pleasant drives, and water sports.

Britain has got it’s share of natural beauty with the main destinations being Lake District, Peak District, Wales, Cornwall, and Scotland. Lake District and Peak District are situated in the North Central England, each named for obvious reasons. Both offer some great drives and views along with their share of adventure sports. One can simply drive and do nothing for a whole day or even more to enjoy the natural beauty. By virtue on the road to Scotland, people tend to cover one of the both while going to Scotland. Scotland, a separate country once and a province in the United Kingdom now is famous for two things – Whisky distilleries and splendid nature. The province is full of lakes (locally called Lochs), castles and hills. It is England’s share of natural beauty to the world and can be considered a must visit for any visitor hitting the United Kingdom. The focus of every tourist will be the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow which they use as launchpads into the Scottish highlands, Glen Coe, the famous mountain pass, Loch Ness with it’s famous monster and Isle of Skye. The norther you go, the dramatic the scenery becomes. Edinburgh in itself boasts of rich architectural heritage, museums and is most famous for it’s military parade happening in August. Scotland can be visited in any part of the year except the months succeeding the summer.

The other equally prominent tourist area of United Kingdom is Wales. A collection of kingdoms conquered by Britain a millennium ago, the section of Snowdonia, the crown of Wales is wilder and more rugged than any other in the United Kingdom. It is an area with high hills and narrow roads. The visibility in itself is not that great making the drives even interesting. Though adorned by castles here and there, Wales is famous for it’s natural beauty more than anything else.

Cornwall is a lesser cousin for Wales and Scotland but will offer you some very great beaches and cliff views with Land’s End and Lizard Point being the best views. By being more remote and unreachable, Cornwall was actually famous for piracy till it was civilised by the British. Eden Project, world’s largest Greenhouse is situated in Cornwall and is an interesting visit.

English is the lingua franca of the country. Though Scottish Gaelic, Irish Gaelic, and Welsh are spoken prominently in the respective provinces, a basic knowledge of English is sufficient for any visitor to get along in this country.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Balakrishna Chadalawada
A Software Engineer by profession, my hobbies include reading and philately. My stamp collection, which started as a haphazard one as like any other stamp collection, has slowly turned to focus mainly on Indian stamps and ended up in me writing a book over that – Stamps of British India and It’s States.

I pass my time blogging and my blog cbkwgl.wordpress.com is a mishmash of everything, with focus primarily on Indian history, poetry and my views over everything. You can reach me at [email protected].