One of the many perks of being an experienced military brat is an extensive knowledge of totally wicked travel destinations. When we aren't moving around, we typically enjoy weekends filled with roadtrips and castle ruins. I have decided to share my familiarity with European travel with all of you. Readers and audiences near and far, I give you the top five must-see cities in Europe.
(Just to be clear, these cities are in no way listed in order of importance, coolness, or anything. Because that is probably impossible.)
1. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen. So much culture and history is held and hidden here, that it would take more than one day to see everything this wonderful coastal city holds within its walls. La Sagrada Familia is an impressive cathedral that dominates the city's skyline (and my heart.) While you can tour the inside, just the exterior is enough to leave you breathless. The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya holds exquisite pieces from medieval times all the way up to modern art and photographs. (The Cheetah Girls also danced outside of it, but whatever.) The city's displays of beauty and history attract visitors year round.
2. London, England
As the capital of Great Britain, London is quite a happening place for tourists from all around the world. It is home to the massive clock tower, called Big Ben, and the insanely huge ferris wheel, the London Eye. Buckingham Palace is definitely something to see, along with messing with the guards in the funny hats outside.
3. Paris, France
Paris. There is so much to do in Paris. The Louvre is located here and holds the title of the world's largest art museum. It would take around a week and a half to properly see every piece of art in the building, but most tourists just go to see my girl Mona. The eyes of the Notre Dame Cathedral is beautifully creepy, and if you're me, you unconsciously start humming "The Bells of Notre Dame" while looking in the bell towers for Quasimodo. And of course, there's the Eiffel Tower. One of the scariest elevator rides ever brings you to the top of the tower, where you can see more of Paris than you ever wanted to.
4. Rome, Italy
Rome is typically most known for the Colosseum, which remains to this day the largest amphitheater ever built. Contained inside the city also lies Vatican City, the smallest state in the world. The Pope lives here and is in charge. The Trevi Foutain is a prime example of the beautiful architecture all over the city. Tourists are often seen here making wishes and throwing coins into the fountain.
5. Venice, Italy
Dubbed the "Floating City," Venice is made of small islands connected by canals and bridges. These islands are home to many talented glass blowers, making glass statuettes a highly demanded tourist buy. The city contains numerous beautifully built churches. The best time to visit the city of canals is definitely during Carnevale. The festival takes place roughly a week and a half before Lent begins every year. It is most known for the intricate masks and gorgeous costumes worn by locals during festival time.
