Collegiette Goes Contiki

Spring break has come and gone for Longhorns, but our early vacation meant sitting in class looking at beach pictures that our friends from other schools posted on Instagram. In this final stretch summer seems so far away, and although spring break was only a few weeks ago, this collegiette could definitely use another vacation. Considering that isn’t exactly possible, I (we) will simply have to survive off of memories of fun times past. Thanks to winning the Campus 2 Contiki contest around this time last year, I’ll be replaying the greatest pre-senior year summer vacation in my head over and over.  I may be an ocean away from the excitement of Europe now, but I’ll never forget such a remarkable trip. Even better news: It’s only April- certainly not too late for you to set your sights upon a Contiki adventure. But before you dust off your passport, take in what you should expect from a fellow collegiette. My journey to London, Paris and Amsterdam made for a thrilling itinerary full of art, history, nightlife and of course, food. 

Hip Hip, Cheerio!

London leant itself to a lesson in royalty via the crown jewels, live theatre in the West End, shopping at the fabulous Harrod’s and copious amounts of fish and chips. This was all between getting lost in Russell Square on foot, but masterfully navigating the Underground, and exchanging currency every five minutes. Stopping to take the perfect photograph in one of those iconic red phone booths while keeping my eyes peeled for a possible Spice Girls sighting (it could happen, right?), became the new norm.

But it wasn’t all cobblestone streets and Piccadilly Circus. A one and a half hour drive transported me to the sacred grounds of Stonehenge one day, while an hour ride put me in the center of the ancient beauty of the Roman baths the next. 

Oh, and let’s not forget those accents. They were absolutely everywhere and I loved it. Do you know how much more pleasant it is to be hit on by an impeccably dressed guy that sounds closer to David Beckham than Charlie Sheen? Exactly. If you go, indulge in the Pimm’s lemonade and thank me later.

Bonjour and also, Fromage

Being in Paris was like being a beautiful pop-up history book.  Iconic architecture could be found at every turn, meaning your camera never leaves your hand. The Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe,  the Luxor Obelisk and Place de la Concorde fountain (where Andy threw her phone near the end of The Devil Wears Prada), are just a few of the must-see sites.

Although Paris is the tourist town of all tourist towns, there are countless little bistros with foreign menus and chic patios. Sing along to “Lady Marmalade” on your way to Moulin Rouge, imagine a Great Gatsby-style party when you visit Versailles, and eat as many croissants as you like.  

Tulips, Canals and Crisps

While Amsterdam is often spoken of as a city that is possibly weirder than Austin, it is first and foremost, beautiful. Canals are the perfect accessory to the cobblestone bridges and bicycles. If you buy yourself flowers anywhere, do it here- Holland (or The Netherlands considering who you ask) is known for having the most beautiful tulips in the world.

On another note, this city knows how to throw a party. If you decide to rage up north just remember to always beware of your surroundings and to know when the last train comes. But if you get left in the club district wind down with some crisps and curry at FEBO, a fast food restaurant that serves via vending machine. However, it may be a better idea to just know when the last train comes.

Wherever your summer travels take you this summer, just remember to explore. My trip was a life changing experience and I can now honestly say that, “Paris is always a good idea.”