In this blog, I will share five reasons I love traveling to Europe. This is an update to a previous blog that I published a few years ago. I’ve been back to Europe many times since then. Hopefully, this blog and video will explain why I love going there so much.
Why do I travel to Europe?
Before we get into the specific reasons let me answer the main question: why do I travel to Europe at all? It is my favorite part of the world to explore. I consider it my playground and going to Europe never gets dull to me. For example, I’ve been to Paris probably four or five. Yet, every time I see the Eiffel Tower I get excited. That’s how much I enjoy traveling to Europe. It never gets old.
Reason #1 – my family heritage
My mom is German, a first-generation immigrant. She met my father in Berlin. They got married and she came to America. My dad’s family also traces its roots back to Europe. My family heritage is European. I’m not suggesting that you need to go to Europe because my family is from there. What I’m saying is go to wherever your family is from. It’s important to learn about your family history and genealogy.
Reason #2 – I lived in Europe
I was lucky enough to be stationed overseas in Germany for almost four years when I was in the Army. While there I lived in a wine Village called Iphofen. It is a lovely place surrounded by a medieval wall and vineyards. The picture below is one of the town gates. I enjoyed living in Europe and had a chance to explore there. All these trips gave me the Wanderlust I suffer from today.
Reason #3 – Sights
There is so much to see and do all over Europe. There are museums. castles, mountains, churches, fortresses, and palaces. You name it and Europe has it. For example, you see pictured below my son Riley by Mont St Michel in France. This place is magical. I recommend going there. One of the things I enjoy about traveling to Europe is that you don’t have to go far to see many different sights.
Reason #4 – the pace of Europe
The pace is slower in this part of the world. American society is intense. We tend to move quickly and at times in hyperspeed. Europeans move at a slower pace and I don’t mean that in a negative way. One of the reasons I go there is to downshift and relax. Sitting at a cafe in Paris is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon, drinking a cup of coffee and watching Parisian life walk by.
Reason #5 – the best beers in the world
I love beer and the best beers in the world are found in Europe. As an American, I’m a huge enthusiast of the American craft beer movement. I support my local breweries as much as I can. Having said that there’s no comparison to German beer, Belgian beer, and other beers found throughout Europe. A great way to spend a day is to visit some European breweries and enjoy the wonderful beer.
Bonus Reason – European Football
The best football, aka soccer, in the world, is European. They have the best leagues, the best teams, the best players, and the best games. They know how to do it right. If you want a memorable sporting experience I recommend going to a football game somewhere in Europe. Their fans are the most enthusiastic and crazy fans you’ve ever seen in your life.
One thing you may not like about traveling to Europe
Europe is not perfect. One thing you may not like if you decide to travel there – the crowds. Some places are overwhelmed by tourists. For example, Venice is taking measures to limit the number of tourists visiting there because it is out of control. Hopefully, that will limit the crowds. The last thing you want to do is experience shoulder-to-shoulder people. With that thought in mind, my one big recommendation is to travel during the off-season if you decide to go to Europe. You’ll have a better experience. I went to Europe four times last year. All my visits were during the off-season and it was crowded then.
Three of my European favorites
- My favorite European Country is Germany.
- Region – Catalonia in Northeastern Spain.
- Capital city – Paris, France
I am Doug Keating and this is my letter to my sons.