Strasbourg, a European Spring

Quiet streets, cleanness, sun, freshness, architectural attractions and positive vibes...
Perhaps most European capitals offer this, but I would wholeheartedly reserve a special place for
Strasbourg, home of the European Council and the European Parliament. Strasbourg the city
(bourg) of roads (strass) from the German language. Since the year 1200 BC, when this area of
Alsace was populated, France and Germany have pulled this city from one side to the other.
Therefore, don`t be surprised if you find pieces of Germany there.
Strasbourg, this Petite France, is considered as the world capital of peace. This is due to the fact
that it houses the European Council and the European Parliament. As some of the most important
meetings are organized in these institutions, not only with European personalities, many people
may think that their imposing buildings are surrounded by security walls and armed forces. In
fact, you will be surprised to see that there is no fence at all. Besides, they are very close to the
river; so close that if you walk barefoot on the freshly cut grass along the river, you will need 10
steps in maximum to reach the building. There are also open to public days when you can visit
the inside areas.
Spring time is wonderful. The streets are so vacant because people either walk or cycle. The
French are so sporty that you will see them cycling almost everywhere, with their child sitting in
the front-mounted bike seat. Everything moves so fast, yet it looks like everything is in slow
motion, especially when you sit for a drink.
The architecture accompanying the 5-th River, filled with bridges of different styles and epochs,
offers a combination of pragmatism, classical and modern history.
The perpetual greenness from the most narrow streets up to the most modest walls holding pots
of colourful flowers make you feel part of the wonderful nature.
While walking with curiosity through the city, you will surely come across one of the most
interesting museums that complement the magnificent mosaic of tourist attractions. I would
mention the Alsace Museum which walks you through the past of Alsace.
What else can you do in Strasbourg? You can go boating which would take you 13 euros and 90
minutes, but it`s all worth it. Walking around the city you will be able to enjoy its fantastic sights

and fresh air. It is beautiful especially when you are in the company of your loved ones. The ship
will pass nearby the European Parliament buildings; all of them are very contemporary and rising
very naturally among the greenness. Regardless of your choice to boating, you could enjoy the
specialties of local dishes such as quiche lorraine and flamkuchen. Flamkuchen are so big that
restaurants would not complain it if you order one and share it. Another particular thing is that
you can find specialized restaurants with cheese recipes only. One of the peculiarities that you
can enjoy is La Cloche a Formage (grilled figs with goats cheese).
And finally, a small secret... If you go to Strasbourg, remember that you are only 16 minutes
away from Germany. You can go through Europe Bridge (Pont de l'Europe) in the middle of
which you will be with one foot in France and the other in Germany.