Travelling throughout Europe is one of the many exciting privileges and benefits of being posted OUTCAN. In Canada, it would take 24 hours of non-stop driving just to drive from Kingston, Ontario to Winnipeg, Manitoba; in a full day I can drive through many countries in Europe!
Because Europe is smaller it is much more accessible, not to mention more affordable—you can easily travel between countries via car, train, bus, or plane. How many of us have flown or driven to another country just for a weekend or gone on week-long road trips? How incredible is that? But with so many sights to see and an endless possibility of new experiences, how do you make the best of it? I love all the beautiful churches and ancient castles (even the ruins!); however, there are so many more weird and wonderful things to do in Europe! So how do you plan such a trip, with the unusual and unique in mind?
One of my favourite websites to get inspiration for off-the-beaten-path sights and lesser-known places is Atlas Obscura. I use this site when doing preliminary research on any location I visit, to find some interesting and not as touristy attractions. It's also great for those who appreciate unique history, a little of the bizarre and the macabre, and have a good sense of humour for things like cheeky public art installations. I have visited strange museums (there are so many in Europe!), historic graveyards and cemeteries, gone on self-guided walking tours to see peculiar public art installations, day-tripped to explore caves and deserts, all while still seeing the typical sites and some fantastic panoramic views!
Tips for seeing a lot in a short amount of time:
Pack strategically - lots of layers and compact luggage! If you can, travelling with only carry-on.
Prepare your route and itinerary in advance to manage time and know where to stop to refuel for food and water. Drop all your pins in Google maps and print it! (Don't forget to add where you are staying as one of your pins.)
Always have cash, especially when heading to remote or less touristy sites.
A little contradictory to #2, but also learn to let go! I love a schedule and a plan; however, some the BEST adventures I have had while OUTCAN have been complete surprises discovered between destinations.
Lastly, don't hide in a resort. You want a beach destination? Love that for you! But do day trips and excursions, too!
Some great blogs to get you inspired; ·
World of Wanderlust: https://worldofwanderlust.com/
Globe Trotter Girls: https://globetrottergirls.com/
The Wanderlust Effect: https://www.thewanderlusteffect.com/
Budget Traveller: https://budgettraveller.org/
Europe Up Close :https://europeupclose.com/
Be sure to check out Instagram hashtags like #backpacker, #offthebeatenpath, as well as geotags to see what is out there! Geocaching is also a fun activity to do while travelling and might bring you down a road less travelled.
Have fun, and I hope this helps make your travels even more exciting.