Intro
France is a country that above all things prides itself on its cultural heritage. In light of their revolutionary motto of egalite, liberte and fraternite, France remains firmly dedicated to their histoire. Everywhere you go in France you get the feeling of a people proud of where they come from, and happy to continue promoting the social ethos that have got them where they are today. For the independent traveler, this equates to the preservation of sights, tastes and culture waiting for anyone willing to go out and find it. Paris is one of the major hubs for both planes and trains, and almost every independent European backpacker ends up doing a stint in a cheap hostel near the Gare du Nord. In fact, depending on how long you are there for, it is entirely likely that you end up doing quite a few.
Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
Classic tourist attraction: Effel tower
Others: dirt cheap wine at grocery stores
city bikes through the labyrinth of narrow streets
MacaronsENGLAND
Intro
One of the most multicultural cities in Europe and the World, London has something to offer everybody. This hub of historical importance has a wealth of museums, galleries, theatres, pubs, bars and countless other sites that would please even the most boring backpackers out there. Go for a sight seeing bus tour to see all the major landmarks, from the magnificent Buckingham Palace to the famous Trafalgar Square. London also has fantastic night life that won’t disappoint, whether you want to have a quiet night in a warm pub trying different beers and ales or a lively night out at the best clubs you are sure to have a great time.
Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
Classic tourist attraction: London bridge
Others: gloomy weather
Intro
This culturally diverse capital has long held great appeal for backpackers. With its mix of the provincial and cosmopolitan and world class museums and galleries, Amsterdam is a extraordinary European city. The famous “cafés” serving a variety of different types of marijuana and other drugs are an unusual place for any tourist to visit. There are many clubs and bars to enjoy the wonderful Dutch evenings and give you a chance to relax before you return home from your epic adventure. Now with this being a free country and everything if you go you obviously have to accept everything that is going on around you.
Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
Classic tourist attraction: Windmill + cheese
Others: random canals throughout the city
gay couples
Intro
Although not normally considered one of the more glamorous European backpacking destinations, Germany still has plenty to offer. It’s cities are bustling with life and culture and it’s countryside full of beautiful landscapes and medieval villages. There is the Baltic sea in the North and mountains and forests in the South. It really could be argued that Germany has something for everyone. For backpackers, Berlin is probably the best city to visit. It has an eclectic mix of bars restaurants and clubs yet is also steeped in history. Historic places such as The Brandenburg Gate, The Reichstag and The Holocast Memorial are all located here so there is plenty to do during the day when you are recovering from the excitement of the previous night.
Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
Classic tourist attraction:
Others: sausages and meat
ITALY
Intro
Italy is a slightly strange country because it is such a mixture of cities and styles. It has fashion at it’s core with it’s designers dictating world trends from the studios and catwalks of Milan, Northern Italy. The further South you travel, the more Mediterranean the country feels with eateries and beaches to match. Italy is a very patriotic country and there are often local festivals held up and down the country. If you are lucky enough to be backpacking near one, make sure you attend as you will get a real flavour of the Italian people and what makes them tick.
Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
Classic tourist attraction: tower of Pisa
Others: venice boat street vendors
Intro
Greece is a great place to go backpacking because it has such a wonderful mixture of culture, weather and stunning scenery. Made up of over 167 inhabited islands that are situated on the Balkan and Mediterranean sea, there plenty of stunning beaches with white sand and warm water for you to enjoy. Greece is also steeped in history so for backpackers who like to keep active and learn about the local culture you will not be disappointed. Historic sites from over 400 years ago are still in great condition and have not yet been spoilt by tourism although they are easily accessible.
Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
Classic tourist attraction: Santorini blue buildings in the village of Oios
Others: scooter rent
TURKEY
Intro
Turkey: where Europe and Asia meet, the best of both worlds and one of the best traveller destinations on the map. It is big and diverse, has amazing sights, cities, history, beaches, cheap prices, a great bus system and it is as easy living comfortably on the beaten track as it is to be in a town where no English is spoken and the culture is unique. Turkey has a significant divide, the west, where most travellers and package tourists hang out and the east which is much more like Asia. The east is more remote, requires major bus travel and is much less civilized meaning everything written below needs reassessing.
Illustration
intro illustration: the shape of the country
Classic tourist attraction: Mosques in Istanbul
Others: turkish icecream + coffee
love asian people, especially japanese
during the day it's fine to wear western clothes but at night
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