Danubian Countries

Danubian countries carry a lot of history in their buildings and architecture. They have culture engraved in their mannerisms, warmth in their cuisines, and beauty in their surroundings. Austria is known for it's natural beauty and classical music. It has given the world many famous composers like Haydn, Mozart, Schubert, Liszt, J. Strauss, Mahler and Bruckner. Germany is famous for its museums, historical sites, and snow sports. Hungary is known for it's delicious cuisine and thermal baths.Bulgaria has some of the most beautiful beaches. It also has some breathtaking mountains. Visitors cannot help but marvel at its natural beauty. Slovakia is known for its castles and geographic diversity.

In order to choose the right accommodation option, you should book in advance. Cheap accommodation is difficult to find in the big cities. If you search in advance, it'll be easier to find a budget hotel. This region is packed with luxury and high - end hotels. There are also some youth hostels that can help you save some money. An alternative would be camping by renting a cabin.

Danubian cuisine is quite flavoursome due to the various influences. Some common ingredients are yogurt, cheese, mushrooms, sour cream, poppy seeds, horseradish, cabbage, eggs, and sauerkraut. Dishes are spiced with paprika and dill. Common meats include duck, goose, beef, pork, chicken, and turkey. Soups and stews are widely consumed in this region. Along with breads, sausages, and ground meat dishes. Coffee in this region is also quite exquisite. Plum brandy is a famous bevarage that you might want to try.

People of this region are very warm and friendly. They place a lot of emhasis on punctuality. Majority of the people are Roman Catholics or Protestants. Major language families of this region are Uralic, Germanic, and Romance languages. English is easily understood. Although, it is best to learn a few basic phrases.

Carry a copy of your travel documents at all times. Keep your passport in your hotel safe. Beware of pickpocketers in crowded places. Wear a money belt.

There are many souvenirs one could take from these countries. If you want to save some money, there are some flea markets in Vienna, Budapest, and Berlin. Some of the things that attract visitors are crystals, wooden toys, ceramics, pottery, wines, porcelain items, textiles, ski equipment and leather goods. Bargaining is accetable in the flea markets and small shops.

Most of these countries are quite clean but it is still better if you drink filtered/bottled water. Make sure to be up to date on up-to-date on routine vaccines including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. Besides that, get vaccinated for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Rabies.

Dress according to weather. People in Central Europe dress casually and are not too restrictive. Both men and women greet by shaking hands. Close friends kiss one another lightly on both cheeks, starting with the left cheek. You are not expected to tip your drivers and tour guides. Although, a 10% tip in restaurants is appreciated.