Little France VS Little Venice

The 7 institutions of the European Union are located in 4 cities. Strasbourg is one of its capitals since the European Parliament is situated in it. France and Germany used to be rivals in the world wars. Their reconciliation just paved the way for European integration.

But why Strasbourg? All because of its unique history. King Louis XIV first established French sovereignty after the Franco-Dutch War. The area of Alsace, stuck in the middle of France and Germany, warfares have changed its nationality 4 times until the liberation in 1945.

Today, the European Parliament is the only directly-elected institution, consisting of 705 members to represent each country. It is one of the 3 legislative branches of the European Union, which adopts European legislation, on the proposal of the European Commission.

Aristotle believed man was a political animal. If not, its cultural vibe still draws your attention.

To resist Germanisation, Alsatian Museum was built to present the locals a snapshot of its traditional culture. You can witness Alsatian life in the 18th century through 5000 artifacts. Wooden staircases and passageways connect the 30 exhibit rooms in its original way.

For Victor Hugo, Strasbourg Cathedral was "a skillful combination of monumental size and delicateness" due to its Romanesque design with Gothic-styled spires. The sandstone color varies from time and weather. Standing on the bell tower platform offers a breathtaking view.

To reach every corner of the city, taking the 70-minute boat trip by Batorama is the best option. Discover the Petite France district, which was home to workers and the poor once. Half-timbered houses. Flowing bridges over River III. Exquisite restos. Little but relaxing.

While Little France is located in Strasbourg, there is a Little Venice in Colmar. Just 40 miles away and regarded as part of Eastern France.

Remember the first time when Sophie met the young wizard Howl in the kingdom of Ingary? Remember the opening scene when Belle was busy with the chores in the town of Conques? The inspiration for “Beauty and the Beast” and “Howl’s Moving Castle” has proven its glamor.

Little Venice shares the same vibe as Little France. Located on the banks of the Lauch river, the half-timbered houses and cobbled streets form a picturesque tourist attraction. It brims with its own charm and I personally do not agree it is barely a resemblance to Venice.

Wandering around the Old Town, visitors will come across several fascinating Gothic-style churches, including the Saint Martin Church and the Dominican Church. Dive into the romantic Alsace that the artist Jean-Jacques Waltz has experienced via his Hansi Village.

To end the trip in a French way, I watched the “Mystery Train” in Cinéma Odyssée, and tried flammekueche in Winstub Flony. Ç’est super.