If I could do it all over again

By: Reid Fay

I never hesitate to tell people that the spring of 2010 were the best months of my life. Living in Rome was unreal and the experience is something I could never repeat. I made life long friends and loved travelling all over Europe with them; however at times, planning those trips on my own became hectic but the trips I took with Bus2alps were completely organized making for some unforgettable weekends. Here is my perfect travel schedule of Bus2alps trips I would embark on if I was able to do it all over again.

1/28/12

Montserrat

It’s good to spend your first few weeks abroad in your home country getting used to it. Take a day to travel to the unique spanish mountain area of Montserrat and enjoy come cava tasting. It’s a beautiful setting and a good way to learn about about a beverage you will most likely be drinking while in Spain.

2/2/12

Interlaken

I took this trip on a whim as a student and it turned out to be one of the most exciting weekends of my life. I had actually never been to the snow before this so that in itself was very cool, however what I did on Saturday trumps anything I’ve ever done. I canyon jumped, which is a feeling one can not even desribe, it was truly unreal. The Swiss Alps are a pristine setting, and if you are a snowboarder or skier these mountains are unlike any other in the world. Balmers is one of the most fun hostels I’ve ever stayed in and The Metro Bar downstairs is always a fun way to end a crazy day.

2/9/12

Florence & Venice Carnevale

If you’re going to Italy, you pretty much have to go to Florence. It was heart of the Renaissance era so the artwork and design of the city is very unique–also climbing the Duomo is something everyone should do. The real kicker is the trip to Venice for Carnevale. Put on your masks and wander around this tiny city full of canals, bridges, and elaborate costumes. This celebration of Fat Tuesday is one of kind, in my opinion it’s the best in Europe.

2/16/12

Take some time off and rage in your home sweet home. Get lost and wander to parts of the city you’ve never been, eaten, or heard of–you’ll appreciate the city so much more if you discover it for yourself.

2/23/12

Morocco

Africa? Bet you didn’t think you’d be heading there while studying in Europe. Not many Americans (especially American students) can say they’ve been to Africa, and Morocco is the perfect place to experience a culture different from that of any you have. Haggle in the Marrakech markets, dine on new cuisine, and ride a FREAKIN CAMEL. haha wow I really can’t wait to get back to Morocco after saying that out loud. I love camels.

3/1/12

The Northern Loop: Prague, Berlin, Amersterdam, Paris.

Time to make the most out of your European spring break–lets knock out 4 must see cities in 10 days. Start off in Prague: castles, architecture, and probably my favorite club in europe, Lucerna (can’t beat dancing like a fool to 80′s and 90′s jams). Next we’re headed to Berlin, a place once divided, now reunited as one of Europes most prosperous cities–this is the best town to hit in Germany, especially if you’re a WW2 buff like myself. A day after raging on the pub crawl, we head onwards to Amsterdam, a place that you’ve all heard about and meets all the right stereotypes. There is so much to do here and you decide what that is: museums, bike renting, stroll down the red light district, Heinekin factory, and much more. We then depart for the final city of Paris-the City of Lights. Food, parties, art, nuff said. That was a lot to absorb.

3/15/12

Ireland St. Patricks Day

I LOVE IRELAND. It’s my second favorite place in europe, Rome of course being first. I cannot wait to get back to Dublin for my 2nd go at St Pattys there. There is quite the unique parade in the morning and then a day filled with green apparel, drinking Guiness at temple bar, and singing Irish tunes with some of the nicest people you will meet in your life. You’re going here this weekend, I’m not giving you a choice–see ya there.

3/22/12

The French Riviera

You’ve seen Paris, but now its time to head to the coastline of France. Nice, Eze, Antibes and of course Monnaco. Be a badass like James Bond and kill it at the world famous Monte Carlo Casino. This is where rich celebrities come to vacation and flaunt their fame and now its your turn to do the same.

3/29/12

Scotland

GET IN MY BELLY! Yup that was a fat bastard reference, get it? But really Scotland is so cool. The scenery is so classic filled with rolling green hills and ancient castles–also if you love whiskey, theres no better place. Might as well get into it and purchase a bag pipe and kilt while you’re there.

4/5/12

London

Finally a place that completely speaks English. First go see all of the sites that you’ve heard all about growing up and then go party in Soho. Personally, what I like to do when I know I’m headed to London is find out what bands are playing there that weekend because that is the place to go if you’re into music. London is a very cool city, gotta love those english accents.

4/12/12

Croatia 

This is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to and its a gem that many people have yet to discover. White water rafting is so much fun, thats a reason in itself to come here–Also the stunning Krka waterfalls that you can swim in. This should be a very relaxing yet unforgettable weekend.

4/19/12

Budapest

Another place not many students have made their way to. Dive deep into the earth with some cave exploration and then chill in the thermal baths (oxymoron?). The nightlife here is one of the most diverse you will experience in the sense that there is a vast array of bars and also hookah lounges. If you can’t tell already, I’m a fan of going off the beaten path. *smug hipser look*

4/26/12

The Amalfi Coast

Pretty much the best way to end your semester in Europe. The Almalfi Coast is absoulutly beautiful, I can’t get enough of this place. Capri is legendary and you should see it in all of its glory from a private boat tour or take a chairlift to the top of the island, then make your way to Postiano and jump off of some cliffs. Also, it’s not a bad idea to check out the ruins of Pompeii while you’re there. You definitly won’t regret coming down here to end your semester abroad, trust me.