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Home to some of the oldest institutions still in working order today, Western Europe offers a wealth of interesting and history-laden things to do.
For those interested in history, there can be few better regions that Western Europe to witness some of the oldest institutions still in working order. In the England alone, for example, there can be found the Houses of Parliament in London, which was a palace in King Henry VIII's time and remains a palace today. It is the seat of UK power and has been so since long before iconic figures of British history such as Peel and Churchill stood in the chamber.
However, Western Europe could never be described as living in the past. It remains a vibrant centre of economic power and its cities are full of examples of some of the latest architecture, music and art as that economic wealth breathes life into Western culture.
Travelling around Western Europe is now easier than it ever was, thanks to the ever-expanding European Union, which is breaking down borders for travellers and companies alike, meaning that there will usually be familiar icons no matter where you go.
But that does not mean that Europe is bland. Far from having assimilated the ways of each nation through the European Union, rather there have become some even more distinct cultural differences, as the countries of Europe seek to redefine themselves in an age of modern travel and freedom of movement.
Spain, for example, has seen huge regeneration in recent years and although it was once trapped under Franco's rule, it has moved into the 21st Century as an exciting and diverse country. From the rolling hills to the bustling streets of Madrid, the country is an example of most European cities, where the picturesque can meld seamlessly with the vibrant atmosphere of a town or city.
For those who enjoy skiing, the Alps are just one example of a mountain range in Europe where the snow is never-ending and the scenery utterly breathtaking. On the other hand, for those who prefer a city break, try the ultra-fashionable Milan or the super-cool Barcelona.
Western Europe can offer almost everything a traveller could want and while it is perhaps one of the more expensive parts of the world, there are many areas where travellers can find bargains and spend a comfortable holiday without having to break the bank.
There is a rich history of cultural divides between the nations that travellers can explore, from the English-French battles, such as the Norman conquest of 1066 (travel to Bayeux to see the tapestry, for example), through the Franco-Prussian wars, right up to the first and Second World Wars of the 20th century. Such conflicts may have ended but they have left behind many cultural imprints on the areas and as such travelling between countries can highlight the fact that each country is proud of its heritage and holds distinct values that can be seen in its people and institutions.
Despite being on the doorstep of the UK, Europe holds a wealth of diversity and can offer travellers a unique experience with each new country, or even city, that they visit.
