Why Students Should Travel in Western Europe

Important reasons why the best place to start the adventure is across the Atlantic

There are cheaper places to visit than Western Europe, but for most Americans and Canadians it's hard to find a better place for a major adventure. Here are some reasons why this is still such an excellent destination for younger folks.

Traveling through Europe is almost a rite of passage for young adults, at least those from families with the means. The most common trip is half or more of the summer immediately following graduation from college, but people taking it to a higher level might spend several months as part of their “gap year” before joining the workforce for good.

Western Europe has a lot going for it, and it tends to be almost everyone’s first choice for international travel, not counting spring break trips to Cancun and the like. Starting in London is the most popular, partly because it’s the cheapest to reach from North America, but it’s also great that it gives travelers the feel of a totally new environment without having to deal with a potential language barrier, as long as you can sort out the accents.

After London it’s usually a blitz through the major capitals of Europe, like Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague,
Vienna, Rome, and Madrid, but of course there is plenty to see in between and in smaller cities.

Here are some reasons why Western Europe is the ideal destination for the first major international trip for young adults:

Good Introduction to Travel

Travel through Western Europe is a great way for young adults to start to explore the world on their own. The variety of cultural diversity between countries allows them to experience differences, yet underlying similarities throughout the developed world does not introduce overwhelming culture shock. They are able to practice other languages when speaking to the front desk at hostels in Paris, Berlin, and Barcelona (among others) or when ordering food.

Accepted by Parents/Society

Europe is a commonly accepted by parents and society as an 'acceptable' place to travel for young adults. Students in Western countries have grown up learning European history - what's better than seeing the sights first hand? Some parents are also more willing to finance a trip that it to the civilized world - they prefer to ignore the drinking you'll be doing in your hostel in London.

Historical Nostalgia

Travel through Europe is, admittedly, tradition for many in the educated middle and upper class. Eurail has been around for a number of years now and many students like the idea of taking the same route their parents did in the 70s and comparing how things have changed.