A viral Indian travel blog post from an Indian visitor, shows how he spent lakhs to discover Europe while revealing the unattractive aspects of European cities, which include contaminated public areas and security concerns. After months of planning and saving, this traveller finally took the dream Europe trip, only to find that the real Europe is very different from the glossy photos and reels we see online.The travel blogger, who goes by the name of Prateek Singh posted, “Europe is undeniably beautiful. The architecture, the history, the charm, you can’t take that away. But traveling here right now feels… complicated.Beyond the postcard-perfect streets, there’s visible neglect in many cities. Areas that once felt pristine now feel dirty, chaotic, and at times unsafe. The reality on the ground doesn’t always match the image we’re sold. As a traveler, especially from outside the region, that contrast is hard to ignore.What makes you think even more is the effort it takes just to get here. The Schengen visa process is intense – bank statements, cover letters, itineraries, hotel bookings, insurance, employment proofs, and what feels like 20 different documents just to prove you’ll come back. You go through all of this, hoping for a smooth, enriching experience.And then you ask yourself: was it worth it?This isn’t about dismissing Europe or its culture, there’s still so much to admire and learn from. But it does raise an honest question about expectations versus reality, and whether the travel experience today justifies the hoops you have to jump through to access it.Travel is evolving. Destinations change. And it’s okay to talk openly about both the beauty and the discomfort that comes with it.What’s your take? Has your experience matched the dream, or felt different on the ground?”The dream vs. realityEurope stands as the most desired travel destination for numerous Indians, who want to experience its historic landmarks, prestigious museums, and its beautifully designed streets. Social media creates a deceptive view, which shows all public areas as ‘clean’ spaces, that welcome visitors while providing complete safety.Why we only see the “Postcard” versionThe traveler explains that social media and travel content often show only the best parts of Europe. People who influence others and travelers, select specific camera positions to conceal the dirty conditions, huge crowds and even security risks, which results in a picture that looks like a postcard.A balanced view of EuropePrateek makes it clear that Europe is still beautiful and worth visiting-the history, art, and nature are amazing. He found pleasure in visiting museums, exploring historic cities and beautiful areas, yet he encourages visitors to observe everything with their actual senses, instead of being controlled by their fantasies.Every nation contains both positive and negative aspects according to him, and Europe follows this pattern. The information enables people to develop protected, and operational travel itineraries.Travel with realistic expectationsThe viral post functions as a warning which targets numerous Indian travelers who discover Europe only through social media reels and travel advertising content. Tourists must face different obstacles which exist at every vacation spot throughout the world.Spending lakhs on a trip is a big investment, and it’s only fair to know what you’re actually getting-not just the dream, but the reality too.
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