After a number of false starts these last 2 years we are currently finalising our next big travel adventure with an overseas trip currently scheduled for September 2023 to say that we are looking forward to getting away again would be selling it well short.
One of the best things about travelling in Europe is the rich cultural and historical diversity. Visitors can experience a wide range of different cultures, customs, and traditions, all within a relatively small geographical area. Additionally, Europe is home to world-renowned landmarks, museums, and art galleries, making it an ideal destination for history and culture buffs. The ease of travel within Europe, with the well-connected transportation systems, makes it easy to visit multiple destinations in a short period of time. The food and wine are also great and always a personal highlight for me.
Travelling offers an opportunity to improve language skills, try new forms of transportation, and learn how to navigate unfamiliar places. Travelling in Europe can also be a wonderful way to learn about different climates and landscapes, as well as geography and natural resources. Additionally, it can provide an opportunity to gain experience personally by learning new social and people skills, such as communication and problem-solving, and gain a better understanding of yourself and your personal preferences. Overall, travelling in Europe can be an enriching and enlightening experience that can broaden one’s perspective and leave lasting memories.
From our experience, we believe cruising can be a great way to explore and see the world, as it allows you to visit multiple destinations in a single trip, without the need for constant packing and unpacking. Many cruises offer itineraries that include stops at popular destinations such as the Mediterranean, the Baltic Sea, the Norwegian Fjords, and the British Isles. These cruises typically offer a wide range of on-board amenities and activities, as well as shore excursions that allow you to explore the local culture and history. Additionally, cruises offer all-inclusive packages that include activities, entertainment, and on-board amenities, which can further reduce the overall cost of the vacation.
Popular travel destinations in Europe include:
1. Paris, France – known for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre.
2. Rome, Italy – home to ancient ruins such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon, as well as the Vatican City.
3. London, England – a diverse city with a rich history, famous for its landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Big Ben.
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands – known for its picturesque canals and museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.
5. Barcelona, Spain – famous for its architecture, particularly the works of Antoni Gaudí, including the Sagrada Família.
6. Santorini, Greece – a beautiful island with whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets.
7. Reykjavík, Iceland – an otherworldly destination known for its natural beauty, including the Northern Lights and geysers.
8. Berlin, Germany – a city rich in history and culture, with landmarks such as the Geographic area Gate and Checkpoint Charlie.
9. Venice, Italy- known for its charming canals and gondola rides, as well as its art and architecture.
10. Dubrovnik, Croatia – a medieval city with beautiful walls and terracotta roofs, known for its role as a filming location in Game of Thrones.
How many of these destinations have you visited? Our count stands at 5 so far.
When making plans to travel to Europe, we always consider:
- Budget: Europe can be a relatively expensive destination, so it’s important to plan your budget accordingly. Consider the cost of flights, accommodation, transportation, food, and activities when planning your trip.
- Season: Europe has four seasons, and the best time to visit will depend on your preferences. If you’re looking to avoid crowds and save money, consider travelling during the shoulder season (spring or fall). But if you want to enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, summer may be the best time to visit.
- Destination: Europe is home to many different countries and cultures, so it’s important to decide which destinations you want to visit. Think about what you want to see and do, and what type of experience you want to have.
- Transportation: Europe has an excellent transportation system, with high-speed trains, buses and flights connecting different cities, towns and countries. Consider how you want to get around and plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Accommodation: Consider what type of accommodation you want to stay in, whether it’s a hotel, hostel, vacation rental or camping. Some places have limited options, and it’s best to book well in advance.
- Travel documents: Make sure you have all the necessary travel documents, such as a passport and visa, if needed.
- Insurance: It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance while travelling abroad.
In the post-COVID era, travelling may be different than it was before the pandemic. Changes that may be in place include increased health and safety measures, such as mandatory mask-wearing and temperature checks, and increased cleaning and sanitisation of public spaces. Travel restrictions and quarantine requirements may also be implemented in some areas. As always, it is always important to stay informed about the current guidelines and regulations for any destination you plan to visit.
Over the last ten years now I have always looked forward to the thrill of the unknown and the feeling of adventure that comes with travelling to new places that can be quite exhilarating. From my personal perspective at least, travelling also allows me to disconnect from my daily routine and focus on the present moment, something that I have found to be very beneficial for my mental and emotional well-being. (Translation, I need a holiday)
September 2019 was the last time we travelled outside of Australia coming home to find ourselves locked down and isolated from the rest of the world as COVID-19 swept across our world, it has been a long 4 years.
