Unique Travel Experiences in Europe: A Personal Journey
Retiring in October 2019, after years of a hectic career in the pharmaceutical industry, marked a turning point for me. My family and I decided to take a much-needed break and explore Europe. This was our first real family vacation in years, and it was a memorable experience filled with beautiful destinations, cultural surprises, and unique travel experiences in Europe that will stay with us forever.
Paris: The City of Lights
We started our European adventure on December 22, 2019, by flying into Paris. The city greeted us with its stunning architecture, quiet streets, and the charm that one expects from a global icon. Staying at Hotel Novotel made our first days in the city comfortable and close to all the must-see attractions.
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Seeing it up close was breathtaking, but it was the rainy evening with the dazzling light show that made the experience truly magical. There we stood, drenched but thrilled, as the tower lit up the dark sky—a reminder of why Paris is called the “City of Lights.”
One of our stops was The Arc de Triomphe, standing proudly at the end of the famous Champs-Élysées. It’s a tribute to Napoleon Bonaparte’s victories, and walking under its massive arch was like stepping back into history. The Christmas market was another highlight, with festive lights, joyful crowds, and endless stalls offering everything from food to gifts. It was a vibrant, memorable experience that immersed us in the holiday spirit.
Madrid: A Calm and Quiet Beauty
Our journey continued with a train ride to Madrid after briefly visiting Barcelona. The Spanish capital felt calm and orderly, with traffic flowing smoothly and an almost surreal silence on the roads. Staying at the Novotel Madrid Centre, we explored the city’s beautiful architecture and dined on delicious local cuisine. What stood out most to us in Madrid was the sense of safety and peace as pedestrians could easily cross roads without worrying about traffic—a refreshing change from India.
We didn’t have as much time as we’d hoped to explore Madrid thoroughly, but the city left a lasting impression. Its mix of modern and historical landmarks, along with the warmth of the people, makes it one of the most unique travel experiences in Europe.
Frankfurt: A City of Modern Marvels
Next on our European tour was Frankfurt. From the moment we arrived, the city’s towering buildings and modern infrastructure amazed us. Frankfurt’s blend of old and new is fascinating, and the bustling streets filled with holiday shoppers made it even more exciting. We stayed at the Tokyo Inn, and during our exploration of the city, we found an Indian restaurant named Garam Masala, where we enjoyed some of the best Indian food we had on the trip. The owner’s warm hospitality made it a memorable dining experience.
What stood out most in Frankfurt was how advanced and organized everything felt. The malls, the public transport, and even the layout of the city felt futuristic. Walking through the streets and seeing the vibrant energy of the city made it one of our favorite destinations in Europe.
Lille: The Peaceful Charm of Northern France
After visiting Frankfurt, we returned to France, but this time to the quieter city of Lille, where our daughter was studying. Lille, in northern France, has a serene atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. We spent a few peaceful days here, exploring the local markets and enjoying the Christmas fair. The calm, quiet charm of Lille offered a nice contrast to the larger cities we had visited earlier.
During our time in Lille, we also visited ISA University, where our daughter studied. The university’s beautiful campus and the overall peaceful environment of Lille left a deep impression on us. It’s a city that many travelers overlook, but its understated beauty made it one of the most unique travel experiences in Europe for us.
London: A Blend of Cultures
The final leg of our journey took us to London. Arriving by bus from Lille, we found ourselves in one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Staying at the Holiday Inn near Heathrow Airport, we explored the city with a special focus on the Hare Krishna Temple. Watching the English locals dance and sing during the Aarti was an unexpected and moving experience.
London’s diversity stood out in other ways, too. Many of the cab drivers we encountered were of South Asian descent, and the city seemed like a blend of different cultures, which added to the richness of our experience. We celebrated New Year’s Eve in London, shopping in the bustling Heathrow area and having our final meal of 2019 in the heart of the city.
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back, this trip was not just a vacation; it was a journey through different cultures, landscapes, and ways of life. From the rainy light show at the Eiffel Tower to the silent streets of Madrid, the modern marvels of Frankfurt, the peaceful charm of Lille, and the multicultural vibe of London, each destination offered something unique.
Traveling immediately after my retirement gave me a new perspective on life and reminded me of the importance of spending time with family. The memories we created during this trip, from discovering hidden gems to experiencing unique travel experiences in Europe, will stay with us forever.
If you’re considering a European trip, remember that every city, big or small, has its own story to tell. Whether it’s the bustling energy of Paris or the quiet charm of Lille, Europe offers countless opportunities for a unique travel experience.
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