Expats guide to select the top travel destinations in Europe. What is this longing and why does it encompass us? Whether we are young or old, rich or poor, cultivated or under-cultivated, single or family – this longing encompasses all of us. Longing for a shower is an ancient phenomenon. For a long time religious pilgrimages were perceived as genuine journeys, made with great sacrifices by ordinary people, while educational journeys addressed people in the upper strata of society. Today almost anyone can get on the road. And travel is perceived especially as an enrichment, a healing, something that cultivates you, rests you, strengthens your character, broadens your sphere of knowledge, something with positive effects.
Dubrovnik – Walls of Dubrovnik: Overlooking the turquoise waters of southern Croatia is the mighty and medieval Walls of Dubrovnik. If you are a Game of Thrones fanatic, these are must visit attractions that you’ve already seen in King’s Landing. In fact, the Bokar Fortress, Seaside Walls, Minceta Tower, and West Walls of Dubrovnik were used in filming the hit HBO series. Edinburgh – Arthur’s Seat: Arthur’s Seat offers a summit perfect for viewing the entirety of Edinburgh, Scotland. Originally known as the Height of Arrows, this magnificent hilltop is actually an ancient volcano. Today the hill is a 250-foot high peak perfect for hillwalking and enjoying the Scottish air.
For tragic reasons, Anne Frank has become one of the most famous figures in European history and this museum is a dedication to her. This is a writer’s house and a biographical museum that is located next to a canal called the Prinsengracht in central Amsterdam. The museum is housed in the 17th-century building where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II. Although Frank did not survive the war, the diary that she wrote throughout the war was published in 1957. The block where the museum is located was intended for demolition. However, the Anne Frank Foundation purchased the property in 1957 to prevent this from happening. The museum opened to the public in 1960. The hiding place of Frank’s family has been preserved and it has two main exhibitions; one that is devoted to the life and times of Anne Frank and another which is about all forms of discrimination and persecution. The museum averages 1.3 million visitors a year.
Expats in Europe tip of the day : As in, like, don’t feel obligated to jump into a weird sex party just because you’re lonely and nobody back home will answer your Skype calls. (Unless you’re already into weird sex parties.) The day-in, day-out challenges of living in a different country, dealing with different cultural norms, and speaking a difficult language will wear you down. So, be prepared. But there’s a big difference between being willing to try a new experience and being the one American dude who’s waaaaay too into Japanese drumming. Don’t lose yourself in the name of integrating, but be open to the differences a host culture can offer. Read extra info at We Be Trippin Europe.
Stay open-minded. Not everything will be the same as inside your home country, more than likely they will be very different. However, that is all part of the experience of living in a new place. While you may not love every difference, keep in mind that you more than likely don’t love everything about your home country either- and that’s ok.