Western
Europe
This region has always attracted the largest
number of tourists, beginning with France, the most visited country in the world. Indeed,
France offers attractions and a culture that charm all who encounter them; Paris alone
features the same number of sites as there are days in a year. Magnificent at all hours of
the day or night, it is undoubtedly the City of Cities. Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille and
Toulouse also deserve particular mention.
The Iberian
peninsula, comprising Spain and Portugal, is also a premier destination, especially during
the winter months. North of the English Channel, England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland
and the Republic of Ireland are lands of medieval castles, green hills and captivating
islands. In the British Isles, literature, music and beer are a perfect combination.Central
Europe Central Europe is home to small countries with great traditions, such as Switzerland,
Austria and the Netherlands. These countries truly know how to make the most of their many
treasures. Basel, at the meeting point of three countries (Switzerland, France and Germany)
is proof of this cultural explosion. Unified Germany is a dynamic state that certainly
offers its share of cultural activities and lively evenings. Berlin and Frankfurt are
modern, fascinating cities. To the south, Italy is a sun-drenched land of wine and
enchanting sites. Names such as Rome, Venice and Florence are synonymous with romance. At
the continent's northern tip, the Scandinavian countries have been able to preserve their
vast wilderness of majestic beauty. Their lakes, fjords, rivers and mountains are amazing
places for hiking and observing a wide array of botanical and ornithological wonders.Eastern
Europe Since the collapse of the USSR in late 1991, this vast, ever-changing region has
established closer ties with Western Europe. Countries such as Poland and the Czech Republic
have become popular tourist destinations.
Because the
majority of these "Eastern" countries (Hungary, Romania, Ukraine, Byelorussia, Lithuania,
Russia, etc.) were quite difficult to access until about 10 years ago, one can predict that
they will soon become premier spots for visitors. Filled with ancient artefacts, fortresses,
castles, mountains, plains and historic sites that are unknown to the public, these
countries are likely to reveal some of Europe's best-kept secrets.