A popular Indian travel vlogger has ignited a fierce online debate by challenging the long-held romantic image of Europe, claiming the continent is "losing its status" after a costly visit that revealed littered streets and safety concerns.
The Costly Disillusionment: Rs 10 Lakh for a Harsh Reality
Prateek Singh, an Indian travel content creator, shared a viral video depicting what he calls the "other side of Europe." His critique comes after an expensive trip where he spent over Rs 10 lakh. Singh contrasts the rigorous Schengen visa process—which requires six months of bank statements, three months of ITR documents, and other paperwork—with the disappointing reality he encountered.
"After spending over Rs 10 lakh, you are coming to Europe to see this! You can see all this in India itself," Singh states in the video. He points to heavily littered roads, crime, and general mismanagement as the primary letdowns.
Safety Concerns and a Shift in Global Leadership
Singh's video goes beyond aesthetics to highlight significant safety issues. He emphasises concerns over theft and robbery, as well as the presence of illegal migrants on the streets. He also cites an incident of mismanagement where the Dutch football club Ajax was forced to suspend a match against Groningen due to uncontrollable fireworks causing mayhem.
The vlogger makes a bold claim about a global power shift in tourism and development. "The reality is: the Eastern world like Japan, China, Taiwan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore are leading the world right now," he argues. "Europe and the Western world are losing their status. And this is the reality."
Social Media Erupts: Agreement, Defence, and Backlash
The video, shared widely on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), has triggered a massive wave of reactions. One user echoed Singh's sentiments, listing "filth on the streets, illegal immigrants, attacks on women and police on New Year, rampant crime after dark," and questioning why anyone would spend $10,000-$12,000 to witness such conditions.
However, the response has been mixed. A user claiming to live in the Netherlands agreed that tourist areas in central Amsterdam can be filthy but defended the country's safety, stating non-touristy parts are "extremely clean and beautiful." Another comment pointed the finger at broader immigration challenges.
The debate took a controversial turn when a third user made a racially charged comment, blaming Indian immigrants for Europe's current state—a claim that was immediately challenged by others in the thread. This exchange highlights how the discussion has expanded beyond travel critique into broader socio-political arguments.
The viral clip continues to circulate, forcing a conversation about the gap between Europe's marketed dream and the on-ground experience for some travellers, while also reflecting a growing perception of Asia's rise in global standing.
