RIKOLA Travel blog
The travel journals of a middle age couple
Size & Geography: France is the largest country in the European Union, covering an area of approximately 643,801 square kilometers (248,573 square miles) in Western Europe, bordering several countries including Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, and Andorra. It also has several overseas departments and territories.
Population: As of 2020, the estimated population of France is around 67.2 million people, with a population density of approximately 123 people per square kilometer (319 people per square mile).
France has a rich and complex history spanning over two millennia, from the ancient Gauls to the modern-day Fifth Republic. Key historical eras include the Roman Empire, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, and the French Revolution, which had a profound impact on world history.
Reims, a city located in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture, rich history, and world-class wine production. The city is situated on the Marne River and boasts a blend of medieval and modern charm. Visitors can explore the majestic Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover the city’s impressive collection of art and artifacts at the Palais du Tau.
Reims is also famous for its champagne production, with many renowned champagne houses offering tours and tastings. The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes numerous museums, galleries, and festivals throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in history, art, wine, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Reims has something for everyone.
Beaune is a charming town in the Côte-d’Or department of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region in eastern France. Known as the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune is famous for its rich wine production and stunning medieval architecture. The town’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and beautiful half-timbered houses. Visitors can explore the Hospices de Beaune, a 15th-century hospital and wine auction venue, or take a wine tour to sample some of the region’s renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Beaune is also a great base for exploring the surrounding vineyards, castles, and villages. The town hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous Wine Auction of Beaune, which takes place in November. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class wine, Beaune is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in French culture and wine.
Colonzelle is a commune in the Drôme department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France.
The commune is situated on the banks of the Rhône River, approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Valence.
Colonzelle is a small village with a rich history, featuring a 12th-century church and several ancient buildings.
The Verdon Gorge, also known as the Gorges du Verdon, is a scenic canyon located in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, southeastern France. It is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in the country, attracting millions of visitors each year.
The gorge is formed by the Verdon River, which flows through a stunning landscape of limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and lush vegetation. The river’s crystal-clear waters offer opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing, while the surrounding hills and mountains provide a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
The Verdon Gorge is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in nature, outdoor activities, and breathtaking scenery. Its unique landscape and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Lake Annecy, also known as the ‘Venice of the Alps’, is a stunning destination in the French Alps. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush greenery, the lake offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports, or simply take a leisurely boat ride to soak in the beauty of the surroundings. The charming town of Annecy, with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture, is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
The lake’s crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to connect with nature, Lake Annecy has something for everyone.
Colmar is a commune in the Haut-Rhin department in Grand Est in northeastern France. The town is famous for its well-preserved old town, which is a popular tourist destination. Colmar’s old town is a maze of cobblestone streets, canals, and half-timbered houses, which date back to the 14th to 17th centuries. The town is often referred to as the ‘Little Venice’ of France due to its picturesque canals and bridges. Visitors can explore the town’s historic center, visit the Unterlinden Museum, and take a boat ride along the canals.
Colmar is also known for its Christmas market, which takes place every year in December. The market features a wide range of local food, drinks, and handicrafts, as well as a festive atmosphere. The town is easily accessible by car or train, and there are many accommodation options available, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury apartments.
Metz is a city in the Grand Est region of northeastern France. Located on the banks of the Moselle River, Metz has a rich history dating back to the Roman era. The city is known for its stunning Gothic cathedral, the Metz Cathedral, which features intricate stone carvings and stunning stained-glass windows. Visitors can also explore the Place Saint-Louis, a charming square surrounded by historic buildings, and the Centre Pompidou-Metz, a modern art museum that showcases an impressive collection of contemporary art.
Metz is also famous for its Christmas market, which takes place every year in December and attracts visitors from all over the world. The city’s cuisine is a blend of French and German influences, with popular dishes including tarte flambée and quenelles. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Metz is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the hidden gems of northeastern France.
Size & Geography: Switzerland is a landlocked country located in Western Europe, with a total area of approximately 41,290 square kilometers (15,940 sq mi). It is bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to the south, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east.
Population: As of 2021, the estimated population of Switzerland is around 8.5 million people, with a population density of approximately 209 people per square kilometer (542 people per sq mi).
Switzerland has a rich and diverse history, with various cultures and empires leaving their mark on the country. The Helvetii, a Celtic tribe, inhabited the region in the 1st century BC. The Romans conquered the area in 58 BC, and it remained under Roman rule until the 5th century AD. In the Middle Ages, Switzerland was a patchwork of independent states and cities, which eventually formed the Swiss Confederation in 1291. The country remained neutral during World War I and World War II, and it has since become a hub for international diplomacy and finance.
Basel, a city in northwestern Switzerland, is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and natural beauty. Located at the confluence of the Rhine and Birs rivers, Basel has a rich history dating back to the Roman era. The city is home to over 40 museums, including the Kunstmuseum Basel, which boasts an impressive collection of art from the 14th to 20th centuries. Visitors can stroll through the charming old town, explore the picturesque Rhine River promenade, or take a day trip to the nearby Black Forest. Basel’s unique blend of Swiss, German, and French influences makes it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Size & Geography: Germany covers an area of approximately 357,021 square kilometers (137,847 sq mi) in Central Europe. It is bordered by Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, France and Luxembourg to the west, and Belgium and the Netherlands to the northwest.
Population: As of 2021, Germany’s population is approximately 83.2 million people, with a population density of about 233 people per square kilometer (603 people per square mile).
Germany has a complex and tumultuous history, with key eras including the Holy Roman Empire, the German Empire, the Weimar Republic, and the Third Reich. The country was divided into East and West Germany after World War II, until reunification in 1990.
Titisee is a small town in the Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. It is situated on the shores of Titisee Lake, a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and water sports. The town has a charming atmosphere, with many shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore. Visitors can also take a scenic boat tour of the lake or ride the Titisee-Neustadt Railway, a historic train that runs along the lake’s shoreline.
The surrounding Black Forest offers many opportunities for hiking and exploring, with numerous trails and scenic viewpoints to discover. In the winter, Titisee is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, with several nearby resorts offering a range of slopes for all levels.
