Trying to figure out what my first post would be was a lot more difficult than I imagined, especially given the current restrictions in place as we navigate COVID-19. I feel lamenting on the current events, and how they’re affecting us seems a little depressing. So, I decided I’d write about one of my most memorable trips I took well before the current travel disruptions.
The itinerary that we landed on for this trip had us arriving in Paris, with visits to Brussels and Amsterdam. In my opinion, this is the perfect itinerary for a novice international traveler; even better for ones that want to explore more than one European country in a trip.
Paris
There’s not a lot one can say about a European icon like Paris that hasn’t been said before. The cafés, the museums, the food, and the architecture, Paris has all the quintessential European traits people look for.
Often overlooked, Paris’ intricate subway network makes getting around easy and efficient when you have must-dos or must-sees to cross off your list. Additionally, the signage that adorns the subway entrances are works of art in their own rite.
Travel Tip: to avoid the rumor of the rude attitude that gives Parisians a bad rap at times, learn a few phrases in French like “Bonjour” (good morning), “Bonsoir” (good evening), “Parlez vous anglais” (do you speak english).
Some of my favorite places in Paris:
Brussels
Frequently referred to as the capital of Europe, Brussels is a great stop to see another European powerhouse. Not to mention, using the TGV rail gets you there from Paris in under two-hours, making it a convenient stop.
Serving as the headquarters for NATO, and the EU, Brussels has a unique blend of many cultures while still holding onto their Belgian roots.
A couple of my favorite places in and near Brussels:
Amsterdam
Amsterdam (a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010) is one of those magical cities that words just cannot express or do it justice. Having visited this city four times, it’s a city that holds a special place in my heart.
From the majestic 17th century narrow houses that adorn the canals and brick-laid roads, to the many museums located in the city, Amsterdam seemingly invokes relaxation and creativity unlike any city I’ve explored before. Perhaps it’s the Amsterdammers attitude of “live and let live” that keeps me coming back.
With the majority of the population speaking Dutch and English, it’s the perfect stop for any novice international traveler.
Travel Tip: Get out of the Amsterdam city center. There’s so much more to the Netherlands than Amsterdam. Because of the Netherlands relatively small size, there are numerous tours that you can book to see other cities and the countryside.
A few of my favorite places in and around Amsterdam:
This was the perfect itinerary for us because we got to see three different European powerhouses, and experience the convenience of European travel by rail.
What’s your perfect novice European traveler itinerary?