Aashi Verma’s Europe Trip with Her Mom and Thrillophilia
For Aashi Verma, this European trip was something she and her mom had dreamt of for years. But life kept getting in the way with work, responsibilities, and everything in between.
During dinner one night, they finally said, “Let’s stop waiting and just do it.” That conversation turned years of dreaming into a decision.
Aashi and her mother contacted the Thrillophilia team, who helped them plan the entire itinerary. This way, the two of them were ready to explore Europe together.
They landed in Paris on a cool spring morning to begin their magical two-week journey through Europe.
The Lively City of Paris
Their first evening in Paris was all about getting comfortable and soaking it all in. After a warm Indian dinner arranged through the trip package, they returned to their hotel. Aashi’s mother was always fond of Paris, and when she finally saw the Eiffel Tower shining under the night sky, tears came to her eyes.
The next morning, they started their day with the Eiffel Tower. They also saw the famous Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo at the Louvre. Later, they went on a cruise along the Seine River. As the boat passed under the old bridges and beautiful buildings, Aashi looked at her mother as she was lost in the gorgeous views of the surroundings.
On the third day, they chose to slow down and soak it all in at their own pace. They walked through cobbled streets, tried delicious pastries, and spent time window-shopping. It was indeed a quiet and happy day.
From Chocolates to Canals
On Day 4, Aashi and her mother drove to Brussels in Belgium. The city had a warm and lively vibe. At the Grand Palace, they were amazed to see the buildings and the buzz of people around them. They clicked fun photos near the famous Mannekin Pis statue. “He is smaller than I expected,” Aashi laughed.
They also explored the beautiful St. Michael’s Cathedral. The smell of fresh Belgian waffles was all around the street. They could not resist and grabbed a warm and crispy one to share.
They continued their journey and arrived in Amsterdam, Netherlands. As they saw the calm canals and colourful houseboats, they were surprised.
They visited the Royal Palace and then walked around the Dam Square, where street performers entertained small crowds. Aashi’s mother had a sweet tooth, so they tried the famous stroopwafels (a thin and crispy waffle filled with caramel). They were so tasty that they picked up a few extra to take back to their hotel for a late-night snack.
Castles and Cathedrals
On Day 6, they travelled to Cologne in Germany. The first thing that they saw there was the tall Cologne Cathedral. As they stood beneath its massive towers, Aashi admired the craftsmanship. “Can you believe people built this hundreds of years ago?” she said to her mom.
From there, they travelled to Frankfurt, where they rested before heading into the stunning landscapes of Switzerland.
While driving through the Black Forest, they passed winding roads and fairytale villages. But it was the sight of Rhine Falls that impressed them. Aashi's mother stood near the edge and enjoyed the cool mist falling on her face.
In Switzerland, they took the Rotair cable car up to Mount Titlis and enjoyed a 360-degree view of the snow-covered Alps. The Cliff Walk at the top of Grindelwald First was also thrilling. Aashi could not stop laughing as she watched her mother build a snowball with childlike joy.
Later in Lucerne, they visited the Chapel Bridge and the peaceful Lion Monument. The day ended with a lake cruise and watching the sunset over the waters. Even the reflections of the mountains in the lake looked spectacular. It was one of those rare and perfect moments.
Through Liechtenstein, Austria, and Italy
Their journey continued with a halt in Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein. A tram ride gave them a short but lovely tour of this scenic country. Then, they explored the halls of the Swarovski Crystal World in Austria.
They also visited the Golden Roof and Innsbruck’s Old Town and watched street musicians play melodies.
Later in the trip, they arrived in the romantic city of Venice, Italy. Getting around was so different here, as there were only boats all around. They boarded a public waterbus and glided along the canal to reach Venice Island.
Their first stop was the lively St. Mark’s Square, surrounded by grand buildings, music, and flocks of pigeons. They explored the historic Doge’s Palace, and as they crossed the Bridge of Sighs, Aashi shared the story behind its name with her mother.
The most magical part of the day was their gondola ride through the narrow canals. The gondolier sang as the boat moved through the quiet waterways. Aashi looked at her mother sitting quietly and enjoying every moment with a calm smile.
Soon, they travelled to Pisa to see its popular Leaning Tower. They joined the crowd to take pictures in the same pose as the attraction. A drive to Florence led them to Piazzale Michelangelo, where they were pleased to see the view of the city under the soft Italian sunset.
Their final stop was Rome. There, Aashi and her mother explored Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. “I used to read about this in school,” her mother said while holding her hand. “And now I am here.”
While driving through the Eternal City and passing the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Piazza Venezia, it felt like travelling through the stories of emperors and artists.
As the trip came to an end, Aashi and her mother sat quietly in their hotel room in Rome and packed their bags slowly. The hotels were sometimes far from the city centres, and the days were hectic. But the laughter, the stories they shared, and the joy of discovery world had all been worth it.
Read More: Thrillophilia Europe Reviews