Visiting Europe has been a dream for countless travellers. Those historic buildings, museums, landmarks and, of course, that European charm always attract people. But recently, an Indian travel vlogger uploaded a video showing Europe’s reality, and it has sparked a debate online. Here’s what the vlogger had to say.
Indian Travel Vlogger Shows The Sad Reality Of Europe
Prateek Singh, a travel vlogger who goes by the username @travelwprateek, has uploaded a video showing a side of European countries and cities that is often missing from social media. Under his video, the vlogger wrote, “Europe is undeniably beautiful. The architecture, the history, the charm, you can’t take that away. But travelling here right now feels… complicated.” He says no one tells you the reality of Europe until you travel there yourself. Prateek shares that he spent nearly ₹10 lakh and invested a lot of time to come on his “dream trip” to Europe, only to see garbage on roads and in lakes. He calls this the sad reality that many people do not talk about.
Prateek adds that he has travelled through Germany and France and is currently in the Netherlands. In the video, he pans his camera across streets filled with garbage, food packages and dirt. In the video, Prateek says, “10 lakh kharch karne ke baad aap yeh sab dekhne aate ho?” while pointing at the dirt around him.
He also speaks about safety concerns and says these cities can feel unsafe, especially at night. The travel vlogger adds that countries like Japan, South Korea and China are leading the world in tourism today, not Europe or other Western countries.
Internet Reacts To The Viral Europe Reality Video
Prateek also writes, “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 traveller, especially from outside the region, that contrast is hard to ignore.” He talks about how difficult it is to get a Schengen visa. He mentions bank statements, cover letters, hotel bookings and employment proofs. According to him, travellers submit multiple documents just to visit Europe.
He asks, “Was it worth it?” However, he also clarifies that the post is not about dismissing Europe. Instead, he says it raises questions about expectations versus reality. Many of his followers shared their opinions in the comments. One user wrote, “Excellent. It’s high time we post more such videos,” while another called it “An eye-opener reel.” One more comment read, “Bang on! Someone needs to ring the bell and open eyes!”
Many Instagram users disagreed with him and shared different opinions. Some wrote comments like “Do not generalise it.. Switzerland is an exception,” while one user wrote, “Please don’t believe him. It’s wonderful. He is just showing some dirty places.”
Also Read: European Buses Never Treated Me So Well; Canadian Man Praises India’s $15 Sleeper Bus
Do you agree with this Indian travel vlogger’s views on Europe? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: @travelwprateek/ Instagram
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