Dear Friend,

Europe is an excellent option for a myriad of vacation reasons. if you live on the East coast, it's easy to get to with daily non-stops from major North American gateways! A few of my favorite "starter destinations" include: The UK, Italy, Greece, Ireland and Switzerland. Happy planning and have a phenomenal time in Europe!

​Erik

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FAST FACTS

Continent or Region: Europe
Number of Nations or Territories: 44 (a handful of countries are part of Europe and Asia)
Members Countries of the EU: 27
Primary Language: Varies by country
Timezone: Varies by country
Currency: Varies
Power: Varies

​​Passport: Yes, Americans need a valid passport to enter a European nation
Visa: American citizens need a visa if traveling for vacation to some European countries

More information on passports & visas can be found here.

I love traveling abroad as much as I love traveling within my home country of the the United States. However, I want you to be safe and be a good representative of your home country. Even in places that are very friendly to visitors, remember that you are in a foreign country and understanding local customs is critical. So, here are a few tips as you prepare for your adventure.
  1. Before you depart from your home country, call The US Embassy (or your home country embassy) and tell them you are leaving your home country. That way they are aware of your whereabouts in case of emergency.
  2. Carry only the credit cards you are using to charge expenses. Call those credit card companies before you leave. Do not travel with your debit cards. 
  3. Clean out your wallet or purse and carry only what you need. 
  4. Solve your mobile phone situation before you depart. Usually a phone call to your provider will get you started.
  5. Keep all medications with you in your carry on.
  6. Leave a photo copy of all your travel documents (passport, itinerary, copy of your credit cards) with a friend or at your home. 
  7. Do not travel with expensive jewelry.
  8. Make sure you travel with a valid passport or visa (if required). Also, bring another valid form of photo I.D., and photocopies of both I.D.s. in case of loss or theft.
  9. Read up on local laws and practices before you get here.
  10. Be a respective guest of the local customs and obey the local laws.
  11. If English is not the primary language, then familiarize yourself with key phrases and make attempts in the country's primary language. Locals usually appreciate the effort.  
  12. Keep luggage, handbags or backpacks in view at all times.
  13. Keep possessions close to your body.
  14. Don’t take around large amounts of cash.
  15. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry on road trips or excursions.

For US citizens, visit the US State Department's website (for American citizens) before you travel abroad. Her'e's a direct link to get started. 

HELPFUL LINKS & COVID-19 INFO.

Each country has an official tourism bureau. Learn more by watching this video and selecting a specific country or territory to find the link to their official tourism bureau or office.

​COVID-19 European Travel Information

EUROPEAN NATIONS & TERRITORIES