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Europe or the "Old World"
as it is often referred to, is one of the seven continents of the
world and in terms of area, it is the world's second smallest
continent - the smallest being Australia.
Europe was the most popular international destination for Americans
in 2004 and according to the latest research, American travellers
highly regard the Old World not only for its history, culture, and
cuisine but also for their historical connection with many Americans
having fought in 2 World Wars, having a family link with or being
able to trace their ancestry all the way back to Europe.
Europe is small geographically, but in terms of population it is
probably the third-largest continent with about 11% of the world's
population representing a changed and changing tapestry of cultures,
languages, and borders with 25 separate countries, and their
citizens who increasingly identify themselves as European rather
than English, French or Italian, now forming the European Union.
Whatever your idea and expectations of what constitutes a dream
holiday, a European Vacation will fulfill your expectations
beyond compare. It is a veritable traveller’s paradise waiting to be
discovered and explored. And what is especially important for
tourists is the absence of visa restrictions within the 25 countries
forming the European Union.
Although there are variations, the European continent enjoys a very
pleasant climate which is classified as temperate. The climate is
greatly influenced by maritime tropical, maritime polar, continental
polar and continental tropical air masses. But generally speaking,
we have warm summers and cool winters - the perfect backdrop to an
enjoyable European Vacation Tour.
Major Countries to Visit
There are so many countries to visit and diverse cultures and
languages to experience and indulge that no one individual article
or travel brochure can provide you with the full scope of what is
available to see and do on your European vacation Tour –
either individually or as a group.
So here is the briefest of brief descriptions
of just some of
Europe's beautiful countries:
Switzerland - is Europe's most beautiful country with fresh
clean air and breath taking scenic beauty that will leave you
spellbound. It is a veritable pictorial canvas populated with
picturesque alpine mountains, lakes, cowbells, wild and rare
orchids, alpine villages and peaceful meadows. Switzerland is a
country for all seasons, both summer and winter. It is especially
world famous for its neutrality, Swiss democratic referendums and
its banking secrecy. Geneva is one of the 3 principal Swiss cities
and is also the birthplace of the International Red Cross and the
home of numerous important United Nations and other international
organisations.
France – with its own distinctive character is renowned for
its champagne, haute couture, haute cuisine, seductive lifestyle,
the annual "Tour de France" cycling event and the world renowned
Eiffel Tower. Of course, most tourists head straight for Paris which
is often referred to as the most romantic city in the world.
Paris has its full quota of tourist attractions and the most
famous smile in the world in the form of the Mona Lisa. But no visit
to France can be considered complete without a "degustation" or
tasting of French wines or more importantly, visiting a Chateau or
two in Bordeaux or the Burgundy region. France is the wine growing
country par excellence and many great French wines or "etiquettes"
are universally accepted as models of perfection.
Ireland - is one of the most scenic destinations in the world
with a judicious blend of rolling hills and beautiful architecture
offering the visitor a stunning landscape. Your day starts with the
renowned and hearty Irish breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausages,
tomatoes, black pudding and a selection of breads. And of course,
one of the attractions that Ireland is most famous for is its pubs.
Chances are, after visiting Ireland’s pubs you will have trouble
finding other pubs that compare.
Ireland is also home to some of the most beautiful golf courses in
the world with over 400 golf courses on the island. The lush greens
and beautiful backdrops of Ireland’s natural scenery make a round of
golf in Ireland one to remember - the perfect setting for an
Ireland Golf Vacation.
Greece - The Greek nation is known as the founders of the
Olympic Games. But the Greeks also had drama, art, philosophy, and
science at its core from the very inception. When you talk of Greece
you conjure up unforgotten Greek mythology and fascinating stories
such as Jason and the Argonauts, Helen of Troy and the Trojan Horse.
Today, the same elements continue to thrive in the culture and
values of the people, which is probably why over 15 million tourists
visit the country every year. When going on holiday in Greece, you
will most probably find that a large part of the important and
interesting attractions are in Athens but the countryside and
outlying Greek islands and beaches offer as much pleasure to the
visitor.
Italy - welcomes you with a strong embrace of vitality, art,
sculpture, famous paintings, its history, food and of course, la
dolce vita. In Tuscany you can savor world famous Barolo wines and
taste gastronomic antipasti, explore and wander through mysterious
Etruscan and medieval towns. Or you can hop on the historic and
nostalgic Orient Express and head for Venice for a breath of romance
encapsulated in the grace and elegance of Palladian villas and
Venetian palazzi, hidden gardens and arcaded streets echoing with
the footsteps of lovers. Or take a boat ride in the famous
"Gondolas".
Sure, Rome wasn’t built in a day, but you can no doubt make a day,
or days, out of it. The Eternal City remains unrivalled when it
comes to the sheer aesthetic supremacy of its impressive and
widely-venerated history. We recommend visiting Rome in the off-peak
months between October and March and to try to book a hotel near, if
not within, the historic district.
England - Enjoy England and discover a country of great
contrast and diversity both in the places you go to and in the
people you meet. Not surprisingly, London, the capital, has become a
mecca for visitors and a great place to visit – with something to
appeal to everyone. Regardless of your particular interests, the
city has it covered. With countless museums and galleries throughout
the city there has never been a better time to come and find out
just how much it has to offer.
London is the place where the historic past and the vibrant present
come alive together – a place where a blend of history, quaint
English habits and culture, and the game of cricket have created an
amazing and constantly evolving city.
Your European Vacation awaits you. Enjoy!
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About the author:
Stephen S Alison is a
retired "bean counter" who spent 26 years in middle management
positions for major US financial institutions in Europe and a
further
10 years as an adviser/consultant to a number of European financial
institutions.
He owns and operates a number of "hand built" niche websites
including:
http://www.online-travel-holiday-guide.com
http://www.european-vacation-tour.com
http://www.traveling-in-france.com
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