Where is the Greatest City in Europe?
An American friend recently asked me for my opinion on where they would find the very best city in Europe.
Since I'm English, I think that they may have imagined that I'd immediately suggest that London is Europe's greatest city but, as I explained, London is just one of Europe's great locations.
The problem with answering such a question is that we all have our own thoughts on what makes a great place.
Indeed, those thoughts may change over time and could differ depending upon circumstances.
If someone asked me to name the most romantic city, for example, then it might differ from the city with the best architecture.
Out of interest, I believe that the most romantic city in Europe is Venice, although Paris isn't too far behind! Our individual experiences in a particular location can also have a massive impact on our thoughts.
If we've met some friends in a city then we may look upon that place in a more positive light.
If, on the other hand, we've been the victim of crime in a certain place then we may feel more negative as a result, even though we've just been unlucky.
So how does London compare with other great cities? I think that our capital is a wonderful place and I'd certainly recommend a visit.
Is it perfect? No, I don't think that it is.
The streets have far too much traffic, some areas aren't as clean as they could be and people do worry about levels of crime.
But no city is perfect.
Indeed, the weaknesses of a location often only help to heighten the feeling of joy when you see the very best bits.
London boasts great history, some fantastic restaurants, great theatres, wonderful buildings and so much more.
I'm sure that there are people living in Paris who think that they have the good fortune to live in the best city in Europe.
They may be right - it's certainly a beautiful city.
Other than London and Paris, my own favourites would include Barcelona, Rome, Florence and Galway.
But what would be my vote for the very best European city? Personally, I would say that Prague is my favourite.
I'm sure that you may beg to differ!
Since I'm English, I think that they may have imagined that I'd immediately suggest that London is Europe's greatest city but, as I explained, London is just one of Europe's great locations.
The problem with answering such a question is that we all have our own thoughts on what makes a great place.
Indeed, those thoughts may change over time and could differ depending upon circumstances.
If someone asked me to name the most romantic city, for example, then it might differ from the city with the best architecture.
Out of interest, I believe that the most romantic city in Europe is Venice, although Paris isn't too far behind! Our individual experiences in a particular location can also have a massive impact on our thoughts.
If we've met some friends in a city then we may look upon that place in a more positive light.
If, on the other hand, we've been the victim of crime in a certain place then we may feel more negative as a result, even though we've just been unlucky.
So how does London compare with other great cities? I think that our capital is a wonderful place and I'd certainly recommend a visit.
Is it perfect? No, I don't think that it is.
The streets have far too much traffic, some areas aren't as clean as they could be and people do worry about levels of crime.
But no city is perfect.
Indeed, the weaknesses of a location often only help to heighten the feeling of joy when you see the very best bits.
London boasts great history, some fantastic restaurants, great theatres, wonderful buildings and so much more.
I'm sure that there are people living in Paris who think that they have the good fortune to live in the best city in Europe.
They may be right - it's certainly a beautiful city.
Other than London and Paris, my own favourites would include Barcelona, Rome, Florence and Galway.
But what would be my vote for the very best European city? Personally, I would say that Prague is my favourite.
I'm sure that you may beg to differ!
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