Eastern Europe

There are several countries that may be of interest to backpackers in this particular area. Hungary is considered an ideal introduction to travelling in Eastern Europe due to the recent improvements in infrastructure. These are geared towards tourist consumption such as in the aspect of accommodation. There are also more people who are able to speak English than in other countries in Eastern Europe.

The country’s climate is characterised by warm weather from June to August with a generally mild spring and autumn and very cold winter. It also experiences rainfall all year round. The main attraction lies in Budapest, the country’s capital which is also known as the Paris of Eastern Europe.

Trains are generally comfortable and reliable but buses are good alternatives for destinations not covered by the rail network. There are lodgings of different classes which take the form of hotels, hostels and guest houses. A working visa is required if you plan to seek employment. Employment opportunities include agricultural work, gap year organised work and volunteering.

Another possible destination in this area is Greece. Greek civilization has flourished for hundreds of years before the birth of Christ, but Greece as a nation is not quite that old. It has risen to glorious heights by exhibiting Greek power and culture. The origins of modern philosophy, math, sciences and the arts can be traced from this place. The remaining ancient Greek ruins are testaments of those glorious days. The country has a temperate climate in the mountains and river valleys and a Mediterranean climate in the south and coastal regions. Places of interest are Athens, Delphi, Island of Crete and Olympia. The Greek rail network is poor by European standards. Bus service is a more convenient way of going around the country.

There are luxurious hotels, small seasonal chalets and hostels as choice of accommodation. Healthcare standard is not comparable to that of Western European countries. It is wise to have comprehensive travel insurance.

Still another is Bulgaria which lies on the Balkan Peninsula. It is one of a group of countries known collectively as the Balkan states. It was a major power during the Middle Ages but is now one of the smaller countries of Europe. It has a moderate continental climate with long summers.

There is Romania which was the outgrowth of the union of Walachia and Moldavia during the 19th century. Its capital and largest city is Bucharest. The prevailing climate is essentially continental with cold winters and hot summers. Resorts in the mountains and along the sea coast have been developed to attract tourists.