EASTERN EUROPE SPECIAL
Europe’s East-side Marvels
Come explore the Eastern side of Europe — a treasure trove of history
and untouched natural beauty
Still fairly unexplored by Indian travellers,
Europe’s eastern half stands in strong contrast to the western countries of
the continent. Geographically, the area varies between freezing ice scapes
and boiling lakes of mud. Mountain ranges scattered over the Eastern
European countries of Russia, Czech Republic, Austria, Poland, Romania,
Croatia, Hungary and Georgia offer adventurists a pot pourri of activities
like skiing, trekking and cliff scaling.
The Adriatic Sea, Black Sea, Azov Sea and Caspian
Sea lap against many of these country borders with quintessential medieval
towns dotting their coasts and a multitude of opportunities for sailing and
water sports.
Steeped in history, Eastern Europe wears its
heritage loud and proud... from the grand palaces of Vienna to the opera
houses of Moscow. Find yourself going back in time as you wander through
the narrow lanes of towns in Croatia and Romania, where old traditions and
culture are still practised in everyday living.
While the old is celebrated with fervour,
contemporary Eastern Europe is making large strides in art, electronic and
classical music, nouveau-European cuisine and offers shoppers the best in
fashion.
With such a mélange of travel experiences to be
had... make that vacation plan now!
ROMANIA
Old medieval castles, echoing monasteries and
towns with cobbled streets — much of the countryside of Romania is like
this. Transylvania has its share of folklore and is known to be the home of
Dracula. Find restaurants and pubs dedicated to the legend along with
stores selling vampire knick-knacks. In Bucharest, visit the Romanian
Athenaeum, Village Museum and the Cismigiu Gardens. In Buzau, get close to
one of the Berca mud volcanoes or head to Lake Techirghiol where
therapeutic springs and mineral rich mud are used in various spa
treatments.
EAT & DRINK: Vegetarians should try the ciorba
taraneasca (vegetable soup) and ghiveci (mixed fried veges). Try tuica wine
made of fruits. www. romaniatourism. com
RUSSIA
Moscow’s Kremlin, the Bolshoi Ballet, the
Tretyakov Gallery, the Pushkin State Museum and the Conservatory are
tourist favourites. In St Petersburg, visit the Russian Museum to get an
understanding of local history, politics and culture. Enjoy the snow at
Mount Elbrus and Mount Cheget, two of the many ski-resorts in Russia. Turn
things around with a visit to the Valley of Geysers and enjoy the steam
exuding from the ground.
Compiled by Lara Rebello ETTR 130314
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