I was inspired last Oct'09 to backpack Europe on the spur.
This last minute inspiration was further encouraged by the low air fares offered by Malaysia Airline and Air Asia. It was difficult to find a travel friend on last minute notice so I decided to just go solo and travel backpacking through Europe. I have about a week of rough planning and packing, and then off, I flew to London.
(Just a little background; travel Europe, travel solo, travel last minute, travel backpacking, travel spontaneously, all I have never done before this trip. The furthest I have been was to Korea and Japan with family and friends, not last minute but well-planned. So in this blog, I like to share my personal insight on backpack Europe last minute, reviewing the journey, accommodation, transportation, local tours, food, people, budget, packing and security, all for the purpose of future travels)
The most exciting thing about backpacking Europe last minute was the fact that I have no idea how my trip will enfold, who will I meet and what travel adventure lies in store.
Backpacking across Europe (or perhaps more precisely flashpacking) for 3 weeks, I visited London, Paris, Costa Brava and Barcelona in Spain, Rome and Venice in Italy, Lucerne and Mount Titlis in Switzerland, Munich in Germany and Salzburg in Austria.
The most exciting thing about backpacking Europe last minute was the fact that I have no idea how my trip will enfold, who will I meet and what travel adventure lies in store.
Backpacking across Europe (or perhaps more precisely flashpacking) for 3 weeks, I visited London, Paris, Costa Brava and Barcelona in Spain, Rome and Venice in Italy, Lucerne and Mount Titlis in Switzerland, Munich in Germany and Salzburg in Austria.
(Collection of postcards and mini calendars)
Recalling now, traveling Europe backpacking, almost every matters went smoothly except for the overnight train ordeal from Italy to Switzerland. At the end of the 3 weeks, I didn't feel like leaving Europe. I would have extended my Europe travel if I have not registered and paid for an important seminar in Malaysia.
On the whole, backpack Europe last minute has been an enriching experience for me. I realized now, I can really do without many materials attachment to life. Having less stuff and non rigid itinerary gave me a great liberating feeling of freedom to enjoy the beauty of life! My new motto in life now is “Towards simpler, healthier lifestyle! Explore and Discover!”
In short, I’m really glad I have done this last minute Europe travel. I have enjoyable times more than 80% of the trip, met many friendly and interesting people along the way and saw many beautiful creations of God and men.
My "KISS nugget" for those who feel like doing a last minute backpack travel to Europe:- “GO AHEAD, DO IT!”
(Just have a pre-allocated travel budget, choose your destination wisely, go with an open mind and be optimistic.)
Did you know your choice of vacation reveals a lot about your personality? Do a quick travel personality quiz so that you can keep in mind your unique personality and style when planning your next travel holiday or adventure.