Get a Feel of “Vidhesh Mein Desh” at These Places in Europe

The thought of snow-capped mountains, the lush countryside, novel food and the scenic beauty awaiting you in Europe titillates your senses. However, the absence of ghar ka khaana, the incessant but pleasant chatter of people over the daily cup of chaai and the noises that you are so accustomed waking up to, might make you a tad bit homesick. Do not worry, we have got you covered. Along with the five most visited countries in Europe, we have listed for you places that will feel like home, away from home.

ITALY, Amongst Best Places in Europe

Lavinio is a quaint town by the seaside located just 50 kilometres away from the Eternal City known as Rome. It is now informally addressed as Love-India because of its large Indian population. You won’t miss the friendly shopkeeper next door back home because this town has an Indian grocery store. Various Indian restaurants located in the town will provide you with food almost tasting like home-cooked fare. Familiar and foot-tapping Bollywood music could just make you want to break into a dance, or maybe the traditional Bhangra. Lavinio is a land of Gurudwaras and, not to forget, the most sought after langar. According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, you will find 1,50,000 fellow Indians in Italy. Apart from Lavinio, you will come across many of your fellow country mates as you travel from Rome to Venice to Sienna. Do visit this place to find your Desh in Videsh.

FRANCE

The neighbourhood of Gare Du Nord located in Paris, also known as the city of love, can be found right outside Gare Du Nord station as you step out of Metro line four at Exit Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis. If your taste buds are craving some South Indian food, this is the place to be. The scent of spices, crisp dosas and piping hot sambhar will lure you into the well-received and famous Saravana Bhavan, a restaurant that has established its presence all over the world. The blinding bright and vibrant colours of saris in the shops as you explore the area and the lasting aroma of sandalwood incense will not fail to fill your senses, making you a bit nostalgic. Another place known as Little India in Paris would be Passage Brady. As you enter the place, you notice the narrow street draped with saris, shops offering value for money purses or bags, vibrant clothing and jewellery, almost reminding one of Fashion Street in Colaba located in Mumbai. It also offers you spices, rice and mixes. The street is enclosed within glass protecting one from rain or the sun.

Must Read: Bon Voyage to France

UNITED KINGDOM

Southall, located in London, is known as Little Punjab since majority of the population comprises people belonging to the Sikh religion, followed by Hindus and Muslims. As you enter the area, the vibrant yellow colour of hot, simmering jalebis will be a feast to your eyes. As you take a bite of the Indian fried dessert, you will be reminded of the sticky and gooey mess that you licked off your fingers as a carefree child. Samosas and the strong aroma of chaai brewing in tea stalls will make you reminisce about the tapris (tea stalls) you usually enjoy this spiced liquid at back home. With the street always bustling and the constant chatter of the crowd, you will not miss home as much. The Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara located on Havelock Road calms one’s senses and is one of the largest gurudwaras outside India. It is worth a visit if you are looking for some peace amidst the hullabaloo.

GERMANY, Must Visit Places in Europe

Craving ghar ka khaana? Munich brings you some finger-licking and lip-smacking Indian food. Dhaba Indisches restaurant will not disappoint. With an impressive presentation of food combined with Indian home cooking, this restaurant could just take you back to the dining table at your home and you would miss it a little less. Ashoka Indian Cuisine in Munich will take you on a journey from Kashmir to Kanyakumari as it serves you the local favourites of your country. This restaurant is situated at the heart of Munich and can be easily reached by public transport. If you are looking to savour some South Indian food, you can visit Indian Mango. This restaurant also offers vegan food and a range of drinks to choose from.

SPAIN

Madrid has a Hindu community existing for more than a century. Travelling during the festive season? Do pay a visit to Casa Asia Madrid. In case you plan to go during the month of Diwali, do not miss out on the celebrations during the festival. Club Masala and Asha Kiran (a non-government organisation) are centres that supervise the festival. A treat awaits all the Bollywood buffs during the month of June. An event concentrating on “Bollywood in Europe” takes place in Lavapies and is organised by Mister Monkey. This festival screens the latest films from Mumbai, along with some great Indian food.

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Travelling abroad to an unknown place can be daunting. Hence, knowing you have places that could feel like home every time you feel lost does give you some comfort.