Travelling is a part of the bucket list to cross out. Most people save money to collect stamps on their passports. This theory is inspired by the original masterminds of travel - The Sinti and Roma popularly called as Gypsies. The term “gypsy” is derived from “Egypt” because when these groups of people first arrived in Europe, they were dark skinned. Originally, gypsies’ home is in the Sind area in India now known as south central Pakistan.
Europe is but a daydream wrapped in blankets and pillows. It would take years of saving to have the chance to roam around the continent. So buckle up and enjoy the ride while we take a quick glimpse of the culture in Europe. Bon Voyage!
Bulgaria – has one of the richest folk heritages in the world. You can find Thracian artifacts which includes numerous tombs and golden treasures. Thracian’s by the way are the most powerful people in the world according to Greek historians. Ancient Bulgars also have left their patrimony in early architecture and music. The oldest golden treasure in the world dating from 4,600 BC to 4,200 BC is found 4 kilometers away from the city at Varna Necropolis.
France – croissants and macaroons are the best and famous palates of France. The dream of most wanderers is to set foot in Paris and see the beauty of The Eiffel Tower, which to some extent is a valid dream. Even though Paris is labeled as the city of love, the recent status of the nation is contrary. France started to recognize the family as the basic unit of the society. However, after the WWII, things drastically changed. Marriage was decreased, divorce grew and the mass start to be populated by single mothers, unmarried couples, childless couples and single men. Love is anyway depicted in various manners which led the nation to legalize same-sex marriage on 2013.
Republic of Macedonia – If you appreciate extraordinary buildings and structures then you might want to take inspiration by travelling to Macedonia. This place holds so much history that UNESCO has mandated to protect all its structures and lakes. Most architectural structures found in Macedonia are churches that in the city of Ohrid, there are over 30 discovered churches. The culture even showcases good taste of music, art and film. And if you are planning to name your kid a unique one, you can always borrow in their lists of hard to pronounce name. One example for female is Zdravka.
Spain – The recent animated movie today “The Book of Life” is situated in Spain. The culture is widely known for bullfights, Flamenco music and dance, fantastic beaches and tanned skin. As a country is always described through the travelers, there is always so much to offer if you witness it in your own eyes. This country has produced artistic people that widely influenced the world namely Pablo Picasso, Juan Gris, Joan Miro and Salvador Dali. Here are a few tips if you go to Spain just to make sure you do not get punched in the face.
- When you are introduced, expect to shake hands.
- When friendship is already evident, men may embrace and pat each other on the shoulder. Do not be too clingy if you just met.
- If you are invited in a house dinner, here are a few gifts that are allowed – chocolates, pastries, cakes, wines, brandy and flowers. If they have children, small gifts are very well appreciated.
- Do not sit unless you are told to.
A few culture can at least be a window to places that you’re eyeing to visit. There is nothing impossible unless you work hard for it. One day, you will tell the story.