Euro Tour
Europe holds a deeply cherished spot in my heart. It was the first continent I explored beyond North America. My European journey began in the summer of 2010, just before my senior year of high school. For three glorious weeks, I immersed myself in the Mediterranean, experiencing the quintessential European summer. Since then, I've returned countless times, falling in love anew with each visit. The ease of traveling between countries, delving into history, marveling at buildings older than the United States itself, and, of course, savoring the wine—these are the moments that keep drawing me back.
02
Spain
Spain holds a special place in my heart—it's where my European adventures began. At 17, it felt like stepping into a magical world, especially after watching the Cheetah Girls and then visiting the same locations where the film was shot. Spain was absolutely enchanting; I was captivated by its stunning architecture and, of course, the famous paella. It was the perfect introduction to European culture. Now, 14 years later, I'm long overdue for my return to the country that stole my heart.
03
France
France is where my love for fresh-baked pastries truly began. I've had the pleasure of visiting this beautiful country several times, and each visit has been an adventure in itself. I've explored France in various ways, but my favorite has to be the road trips. Driving through the country allows you to experience so much—different towns, cities, vineyards, and more. While both the north and the south of France have their own charms, I must admit a preference for the south. The landscape there is simply breathtaking. There's something about the countryside of European countries that makes driving through it so enjoyable. Road trips are the best way to truly immerse yourself in a country, and Europe makes it incredibly easy to navigate.
04
The Vatican
Yes, the Vatican is indeed its own sovereign nation, a remarkable enclave within Rome. Being the residence of the Pope and a treasure trove of iconic art and architecture, it's a destination that leaves a lasting impression. Most famously known for the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, it was a profound experience to witness the grandeur and learn about its history. Despite its small size, the Vatican is rich in history and culture, offering a glimpse into centuries of religious and artistic significance.
05
Monaco
A day trip to Monaco is an absolute must for any traveler. This tiny yet opulent principality offers a glimpse into a world of luxury and grandeur. Renowned for hosting the Monaco Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious Formula 1 races in the world, and the iconic Monte Carlo Casino, Monaco is filled with excitement and sophistication. During my visit, I immersed myself in the elegant atmosphere, exploring the various museums and soaking in the beautiful scenery.
06
Italy
I absolutely adore Italy, and let's be honest, their men aren't bad either! Italy has always treated me like a queen every time I've visited. From the breathtaking architecture to the cutting-edge fashion, the delectable cuisine, and, of course, the warm and passionate people, Italy has it all. I've had the pleasure of experiencing Italy twice, each time leaving me with unforgettable memories. The first was as a teenager, where I embarked on a Mediterranean tour along the coast—a dream come true. I did all the touristy things imaginable, indulged in authentic Italian pizza, and even had the unique opportunity to visit a monastery and meet monks. The second visit, after college graduation, was a lot wilder, as I embarked on a Euro Trip with my girlfriends. We ate like queens, drank like sailors, and hit the town every night, mingling with different groups of people. Italy has this magical allure, and I wouldn't be surprised if I ended up married there if I stayed long enough. I'm seriously considering passing through this summer just to relive those incredible memories and bask in Italy's charm once again.
07
England
It's been nearly a decade since I last set foot in London, and it's funny how things come full circle—I'll be flying into Heathrow this summer. My last visit was ten years ago, catching up with one of my best friends while he was studying abroad. It was a blast being shown around to all the best spots in the city. Despite the chill of November, London was still bustling. We strolled through Hyde Park, taking in the winter festivities, indulged in some cheeky Nando's, and, of course, played the nerve-wracking game of dodging double-decker buses. It was thrilling to see iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and Big Ben up close. While I enjoyed my time, I wasn't particularly eager to return—London's cuisine didn't quite win me over, and the perpetually overcast skies didn't help. As the saying goes, "Fly into the cheapest country in Europe and then go where you really want to go." So, that's exactly my plan for this summer. I might spend a couple of days there, but we'll see—I've got my sights set on other destinations.
08
Greece
Greece holds a special place in my heart, and I'm thrilled at the prospect of returning after quite some time. My last visit was during a trip to London to see a friend. We decided to spontaneously hop over to Greece for a long weekend getaway, and it turned out to be an absolute blast. Though I only got to explore Athens, it was an experience that left a lasting impression. Witnessing the ancient ruins, standing in awe at the massive stadiums where the first Olympic Games were held—it was surreal to be in the midst of such history. One of my favorite memories was wandering through the historic center at night, with the Acropolis beautifully illuminated. And let's not forget the gyros—utterly divine, bursting with flavor. Next time I'm in Greece, I can't wait to venture out to the islands of Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, each promising its own unique charm and beauty.
11
Germany
Germany stands out as one of the most exhilarating countries I've ever had the pleasure of visiting in Europe. The vibrancy of its cities and the warmth of its people create an energy that is truly unmatched, making every moment spent there an absolute delight. Germany was just one stop among many on my Euro trip, but it left an indelible mark on me. It was a humbling experience, particularly in Berlin, where I was confronted with the stark realities of history. Learning about the atrocities committed by the Nazis was a sobering reminder of the depths of human cruelty. However, what struck me the most was the way Germany confronts its dark past head-on, acknowledging its mistakes and striving to learn from them. As an American, I found this approach deeply admirable and thought-provoking. The abundance of museums and educational opportunities allowed me to delve deeper into history, gaining valuable insights along the way. While I would love to revisit Berlin for its lively atmosphere and rich cultural scene, I am equally eager to explore other cities and regions of Germany, each offering its own unique charm and perspective.
13
The Netherlands
C'mon, who wouldn't want to experience the laid-back vibe of Amsterdam? Whenever I've visited the Netherlands, Amsterdam has been my top destination for indulging in what the city is famous for—yes, I'm talking about those legendary "J"s. But Amsterdam offers so much more than just its green scene. Every visit to this city has been an adventure, filled with vibrant energy and endless exploration. On both occasions, I made sure to grab a tourist pass, which granted me access to numerous museums and free transportation at an unbeatable price. The Netherlands was the first European country where I witnessed the sheer volume of people commuting on bicycles, and it's truly remarkable for so many reasons. The architecture along the canal is simply breathtaking, and wandering through the city, taking in the sights and sounds, always fills me with joy. Amsterdam exudes good vibes from every corner, and I know I'll be back many times to soak it all in again.
13
Ireland
Guinness and live music—that's the essence of Ireland. My trip to Ireland turned out to be unexpectedly fantastic. The people there were an absolute riot, in the best way possible. Their energy and friendliness made every moment a joy. My friends and I found ourselves constantly engaged with locals who were eager to ensure we had the time of our lives. Ireland is teeming with live music, and while it's not typically my scene, I found myself thoroughly enjoying the lively atmosphere. And of course, a visit to the Guinness factory is a must. Even though I'm not a fan of the beer itself, the experience was unforgettable. Dublin was a blast, but I'm already looking forward to exploring the countryside on my next visit. There's something about Ireland's rugged landscapes and quaint villages that calls to me, promising a whole new adventure.
18
Portugal
I have a serious case of Portugal fever—I mean, who wouldn't want a house there? It's an absolutely stunning country, and I'm determined to explore every corner of it. I've been lucky enough to visit Lisbon, Cascais, and Sintra, and let me tell you, each one is a treasure in its own right. Sintra stole my heart with its breathtaking castle. Seriously, it's one of the most beautiful castles I've ever laid eyes on—the colors, the interior, everything about it is just magical. I was also enchanted by the traditional Portuguese tiles adorning buildings and homes throughout the city—everywhere you look, there's something interesting to see. Just be warned, those hills will give your legs a workout! And Pink Street? That was an experience I won't forget anytime soon. The nightlife in Portugal is a blast, and I had so much fun going out and meeting new people. Needless to say, I'm already counting down the days until I can return. Portugal, I'll be back for you!
21
Czech Republic
Choosing to visit the Czech Republic was one of the best decisions I've ever made, though I can't quite recall what prompted it. It was just one stop on a Euro tour with some friends, but it left an indelible mark on me. Compared to other countries in the EU, it was refreshingly inexpensive, which was a pleasant surprise. One of my favorite spots was the Old Town Square—it's the beating heart of downtown Prague, nestled in the historic center. Gothic churches, charming shops, monumental landmarks—it's all there, creating an atmosphere that's truly electric. My time in this part of Europe, outside the EU, was nothing short of enchanting. I'm eager to explore more of the Czech Republic, as well as other Eastern European countries. There's something about the rich history, diverse cultures, and undiscovered treasures of the region that calls to me, promising even more unforgettable adventures ahead.
23
Denmark
Visiting my first Nordic country was an absolute delight—I fell in love with it, though I may have to rethink visiting during the winter months. Perhaps that's why my flight from New York was so surprisingly affordable! Nevertheless, it was another stunning country, with picturesque canals and breathtaking architecture at every turn. Of course, like any European destination, I indulged in the museum scene, soaking up art and history. But one unexpected highlight was exploring a neighborhood called Freetown Christiania, renowned for its open trade of cannabis. How this is legal, I'm still not entirely sure, but experiencing it firsthand was undeniably fascinating. It added a unique and somewhat surreal dimension to my trip, leaving me with memories I won't soon forget.
24
Sweden
Visiting Sweden on the same trip as Denmark was an incredible experience. Just like Copenhagen, Stockholm is a stunning capital city situated on the water. Despite the chilly weather, I couldn't resist taking a boat ride, gliding along the calm waters and admiring the beautiful views. But what truly stole my heart in Stockholm were the train stations—yes, you heard that right. These stations are adorned with absolutely breathtaking art, and I found myself in awe at how something so cool and beautiful could be found in a transportation hub. That's what makes it so amazing—finding something extraordinary in the ordinary. Another highlight was visiting the Nobel Peace Prize museum. It was an incredible experience learning about and seeing past winners, but what really stood out to me was the exhibit focusing on Martin Luther King Jr. I was genuinely shocked—in the best possible way—that they gave him such prominence. As a black woman from the States, it was a deeply moving moment to see him recognized, appreciated, and celebrated on a global scale. It's moments like these that remind us of the profound impact of individuals like Martin Luther King Jr. on the world stage.
29
Switzerland
Switzerland is, without a doubt, the most breathtaking European country I've had the pleasure of visiting, and I experienced it in the best way possible. Similar to my second visit to France, I explored Switzerland by car, and it was an adventure like no other. We embarked on a road trip from west to east and back again, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of fantastic. What made it even better was that we planned nothing in advance. We stopped wherever we wanted, lingered longer in hidden gems we stumbled upon, and simply embraced the freedom to do everything at our own pace. It's truly the best way to immerse yourself in a country and discover the lesser-known towns and cities. Switzerland is renowned for being expensive, which came as no surprise, but I was taken aback to find out they use the Swiss Franc instead of the euro. Despite the cost, every moment spent in Switzerland was priceless, and I'm already eagerly anticipating my next visit. This trip was back in late 2019, just before the pandemic hit, and I've been holding onto these memories ever since. Now, I can't wait to make my way back to Europe and create even more unforgettable experiences.