r/SlowTravelEurope

How does France do it?

Hi everyone!

As the title says, I'm currently planning a backpacking trip through Central Europe (focusing mainly on the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany) for next summer, and I wanted to ask a few questions to anyone who has already been there.

I'm not a big fan of traditional tours or guidebooks, as they often feel too artificial.

Keeping that in mind, I’d love to ask you:

• How do you find truly authentic experiences in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany? Any specific tips for these areas?
• What did you struggle with the most during your travels in this part of Europe (language barriers, transportation, cultural differences)? How did you handle those challenges?
• How did you manage to connect with locals to discover hidden gems and authentic experiences recommended by residents in these countries?
• Which places made you feel like you were truly living the local culture in the Netherlands, Belgium, or Germany? How did you find those spots? Any recommendations?

Thanks in advance to anyone who replies!