*Contributed Post
Summer is coming, and because of that, there’s a lot you can look into to make sure it’s the time of year you never forget. One of the best ways to do this, as we can all agree, is to take a plane or a ferry away to the other side of the world, and have as much fun as you can in the destination of your dreams. However, where exactly is that? What will be most worth your time and money?
One short answer: Europe. Europe is one big continent, and because of that, there’s so much to see and do when you’re traversing your way through it. After all, it’s not a proper European holiday unless you’ve gone backpacking across some kind of mountain range! So if you’re wondering why Europe has some of the most well known and crowd flocking sites in every direction, here’s the post for you.
It’s a Great Place to Polish Off the Bucket List
Everyone has their own little bucket list, even if it’s not an official bullet pointed entry in your journal. And yet, so many people don’t tend to go out of their way to accomplish the activities and events they really want to experience! So put your holiday period, when you have the actual time to get out and about in the way you want, to good use. Going to Europe with this time would be fantastic for both the thrill seekers and those who like the high society; there’s so much to do and see.
Head to Paris for the romantics, including those of us who like the classical world, and check out all the restaurants and history housed in the various museums. Head South to find the vineyards and back roads you’ve always wanted to try out, and over into Ibiza, Spain to finally get a taste of the partying lifestyle you’ve seen on the TV.
Speaking of mountains… When it comes to finally reaching the heights you’ve always wanted from your career, getting to the top of one of the many mountains that litter this region is going to recreate the feeling perfectly! If you’ve got the time and energy to make your way up the side of a summit, you’re going to have bragging rights when you come back home, and the pictures to back it up. It’s something not a lot of people get to do, so give it some thought and a good attempt.
It’s Got the Sun and Sea You’ve Always Wanted
Europe is full of differing climates, weather systems, and temperatures. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find the spots of sun and blue skies you always expect from a good vacation. And hey, it’ll be a lot milder and less humid than in the East or West, and that means your hair’s going to stay looking great on the beach all day!
Speaking of those beaches, there’s a lot of famed spots and landmarks to take a trip over, and they all have their own specialties to them. Whether you like your beaches wide open with fine sand and cafes available at least every 10 feet, or you like small coves with baked ground and caves you can take respite in, there’s a beach for everyone.
It’s Also Got the Cooler Landscapes
And no, we’re not just talking about style here. Europe is a big place after all, with many countries a part of it, and that means you can head North and find some of the most picturesque landscapes outside of a fantasy book with all the chill in the air to match!
When it comes to Scandinavia, you can finally delve into those Viking roots you’re sure you have, and get a real blast from the past with some of the towns and villages you can find here. You can head over to Sweden and visit one castle after another, especially in its capital city of Stockholm, a small culture center a lot of people miss out on. Or stop off in Denmark on the way there, and catch a taste of the greenest (literally and metaphorically) cities in the world: Copenhagen.
Or you could a little more off the beaten track and find all the wildlife you’ve only ever seen on Animal Planet. The Rapa River in Sweden alone is perfect for a summer trip, as the Winter gets a little too harsh for tourism, as you can watch the river wind its way through the valley from the mountains on either side. Perfect for the ‘dangerous’ selfie you can send back to your parents to frighten them! Book yourself a tour and get all the informational trimmings to really enrich your experience.
There’s a Real Foodie Culture Here
From the famous breads of Germany to the French delicacies you can’t seem to find anywhere else, there’s a lot you can delve into when it comes to filling your plate. And the euros aren’t usually too hefty either! Finally get a taste of authentic Italian pizza, or buy sweet treats and snacks from street vendors, there’s something everyone who’s a little food driven can enjoy here.
Get ideas for recipes, sit down in local cafes and get to know the owners, or go for a cheeky wine tasting in the middle of the day. It’s perfect for a couple out on their first vacation together, and is even a good way to try and impress the mother in law!
What Are You Waiting For?
Heading to Europe is going to be a very enriching experience in your life, and it’s an incredibly accessible place to get to. You’ll be able to drive, walk, cycle, and ferry yourself back and forth across the region, and often in style! If you book yourself into a lesser known area of the continent, you’re going to get a good rate on your hotel and flight prices as well, and there’s no town out there that doesn’t have at least 3 stars!