Melo Villareal
Although specialists agree that travelers have nothing to fear because of the ongoing financial crisis in Greece, many think that they should avoid the country this summer and wait for the events to play out before returning to the rich tourist paradises or the Acropolis. Luckily there are many alternatives to visit in Europe during the summer. Here are a handful of them to choose from.
1. Croatia
Split in Croatia Photo credit: enjosmith / Foter / CC BY-SA
The obvious choice for many Europeans, Croatia is the emerging star on the European tourist map. Of course, the popular HBO series Game of Thrones has also done a lot for its popularity. Croatia is still considered a friendlier destination than Greece, especially when it comes to the prices of the resorts (not that you wouldn’t find expensive places here).
2. Romania
Brasov in Romania Photo credit: Sorin Mutu / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
Romanian tourism has gone through what’s worse in the more than two decades since the fall of the Communist regime in the country, but it has started to regain its confidence and offer quality destinations for tourists. Its seaside is relatively short, but it has some excellent resorts.
Those not coming with organized groups can even rent a villa in a village close to the beach at a friendly rate. But if its beaches are just a few, its mountains are vast and mostly untouched. Romania is a perfect destination for those seeking to explore the wonders of nature – it has caves, vast forests and wonderful wildlife, plus it has the Danube Delta, the best-preserved river delta in Europe.
3. Bulgaria
Sofia Bulgaria Photo credit: Stella VM / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
Bulgaria is another emerging tourist destination in Europe. Just like Romania, Bulgaria has also gone through some rough times in the last few decades, but it has finally found its voice when it comes to tourism.
It’s Black Sea coast has many major purpose-built resorts that are becoming notable rivals to other similar European establishments. Besides its seaside, Bulgaria offers mountains and medieval cities to explore, not to mention its festivals and nightlife.
Even if Greece is not on your “to-go” list this year, due to its less than friendly prices, its economic issues or any other reasons, you can find several places to spend a few weeks of relaxing summer holidays in Eastern and Southern Europe.
Check out our complete list of affordable hotels and resorts via Agoda or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
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