I am about to embark on the world traveler’s dream: six months of living in Europe.
PHOTO KAELA TRUTNERBarcelona specifically. And although I’ve had my fair share of touring the United States, my travels within the fascinating and diverse continent of Europe has thus far consisted only of London and Oxford, England. Like many of my abroad companions, I want to see and experience everything in Europe, but I realize that my time limit abroad will require me to prioritize. To solve this predicament, I have identified nine destinations that I consider essential for my European rendezvous.
1. Domestic
Barcelona: One of my favorite parts of traveling is seeing how people live in other parts of the country or world. I plan on immersing myself in the city I will call home for a while!
Madrid: Madrid is the capital of Spain, and the cultural crossroads of the country’s various corners. I will most likely travel through it numerous times, and I can’t wait to see the heart of Spanish society.
Granada: In almost every conversation I have had in the last few months with people who have traveled to Spain, the Alhambra fortress of Granada has been highly recommended. Even more often than Barcelona and Madrid, people have gushed about Granada. I’ll take the hint!
PHOTO KAELA TRUTNER2. Local Countries
Paris, France: I can’t think of Europe without immediately thinking of Paris. For a new European traveler, this iconic city, which boasts some of the most recognizable landmarks and romantic reputations, is Euro-travel 101.
Rome, Italy: Aside from also being one of Europe’s most prominent and must-see cities, the history of “Roma,” once the heart of the world’s most powerful empire, will never cease to pique my interest. Not to mention, I have been waiting way too long to try the apparently spectacular gelato.
Lisbon, Portugal: Potentially one of the more underrated of Europe’s major cities, Lisbon has been on my personal list since I heard about the balance of old world charm and magnificent architecture.
PHOTO KAELA TRUTNER3. More Ambitious Destinations
Prague, Czech Republic: This is another European destination that I intend on visiting thanks to popular recommendation. After hearing many of my friends refer to it as “the best city in the world,” I resorted to “Googling” Prague, and was immediately sold after seeing magnificent pictures of the city. On a historical note, this city has continually carved its own path in European history, thanks to a unique history of democracy.
Fez, Morocco: It may be that I am also itching to visit Africa, or it may be the allure of the fascinating mix of world cultures that takes place in Morocco, but I am determined to visit the imperial city. To be honest, though, almost anywhere in the country of Morocco appeals to me!
Berlin, Germany: If you haven’t picked up on it yet, I get excited about history. So, after various readings about the Cold War, the Berlin Wall is a must on my European travel agenda.
