Southern Europe

The idea of a tour around Southern Europe is a blessing by itself. Each country will contribute something to make sure you have a wonderful experience. To experience a rush of adrenaline, you can go skiing in Andorra and then relax at one of its thermal spas. Croatia has some of the quirkiest museums, the most beautiful amphitheaters, and some incredible national parks. To get an all-round experience, visit Greece. It has some of the most beautiful scenaries, magnificent beaches, and a mouth-watering cuisine. Italy encapsulates history, ethereal beauty, art, and great food all in one country. Malta has some of the worlds oldest temples. Portugal has a lot to offer like its historical monuments, fine wine, and beautiful beaches. Spain, the most ebullient country of Western Europe makes sure that you never wipe that smile off your face. Whether you're a foodie munching on Spain's cuisine or someone marvelling at its awe - inspiring architecture, it is a country you must visit. One cannot help but drench oneself in Spain's zest for celebration, with its nightlife and festivities.Turkey has some of the finest bazaars and has a cuisine that has won hearts all over the world. Albeit small, Vatican City is packed with things to see and places to go to. Make sure that you get to admire the Sistine Chapel. It also has some of the most impressive museums and gardens.

There's a wide choice of accommodation and places to stay in Southern Europe. There are many luxury, budget, and mid-range hotels. If you're planning on staying for a long, you can rent an apartment. There are many youth hostels scattered across Southern Europe which are well maintained and provide various facilities. You may also live in a campsite. They are well equipped and are quite safe.

Southern European cuisine constitutes of Spanish, Mediterranean, Southern French, and Italian cuisine. Most of the dishes are cooked in olive oil and are spiced with herbs like basil, thyme, rosemary, parsley and sage. Appetizers, stews, and soups play a very important role in a Southern European meal. Common meats include chicken, fish, lamb, rabbit, and pork. Cheese is also a common ingredient used in many dishes, especially in Italian food. Roasting and braising are some of the most common methods of cooking in Southern Europe.

Majority of the people are Roman Catholics. You would also find some Greek Orthodox in the eastern part of Southern Europe. Most of the languages spoken in Southern Europe are Romance languages, followed by Greek and South - Slavic languages. English is not widely spoken so it's best to learn a few basic phrases. However, some people might speak English to accommodate the tourists.

Make copies of your travel documents. Don't go to dimly lit areas at night. Get Eurail passes. Plan your budget beforehand.

The best place to get your souvenirs would be in the local markets. Tourists mostly buy handcrafted items, metalwork, lace, embroideries, leatherwork and ceramics. Copperware, silver filigree, woodwork, wickerwork, crystals, electronics, local wines and rakija (fruit brandies).

Southern Europe has some of the most unique festivals you will ever come across. Their festivals are a stupendous almagamation of culture, eccentricity, and jubilation. One such world famous festival is The Carnival of Venice. It features events like events like the costume contests, musical performances, theatrical performances and balls that continue for a week. At the Carnival, people disguise themselves in elaborate masks and costumes, usually from the 18th century. Another famous festival that has won hearts across the globe is Spain's La Tomatina festival. The participants launch tomato attacks on fellow participants and drench themselves with memories. If you're a fan of artistic treasures, be sure to stop by Pera's International Sand Festival. This festival of Portugal displays sculptures depicting people, places, and things. There are many workshops, contests, and demonstrations. Valencia's (Spain) Las Fallas will surely lift up your spirits with its parades, fireworks, drinks, and dancing. One of Spain's most famous and daring festivals is the San Fermin & Running of Bulls which is celebrated in Pamplona. It commemorates martyr Saint Fermin while people run the streets with seven bulls with the goal of touching as many as possible.

Europe is generally quite clean. Before you travel make sure to 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, Rabies, Japanese encephalitis, Meningococcal ,Tick-borne encephalitis, Typhoid fever, and Tuberculosis.

Dress according to weather. Greetings include shaking hands while making eye contact. Tipping is not legally mandatory but rounding off to the neares 5 Euro is a nice gesture.