Europe is a big place and one of the world's seven continents. It includes all countries west of the Ural Mountains, the Ural River and the Caspian Sea. This world region a driving force in modern civilization. The lands of Europe have been fought over throughout history and today have emerged into the 'European Union' (EU) of countries which for the traveler and resident alike, allows for easier travel. While most countries are members of the European Union, some are not.
Historically the borders of Europe's nations have shifted with invasions and conquests most notably those of Rome some 2000 years ago and the fist and second world wars. The population is of mixed ethnicity and while there is debate as to the exact origins of the European people continues, Europe by its wealth has attracted migrants from all corners of the globe so there is a wide ethnic mix of peoples competing for possession.
For the visitor and tourist there is so much to see and do that you either have to plan for specific events and activities, or get an Eurail Pass and go exploring. Where ever you go, there is a rich history in architecture and culture, high Alps, great beaches and a vibrant nightlife.
| Austria Think Mozart and classical music and once the center of European culture and power. Take leisurely boat trip down the Danube, walk the Alps, cycle the byways or enjoy the cosmopolitan delights and history. |
 Belgium Brussels is home to many of Europe's institutions including NATO and a city of many contrasts from the working class Marolles, the aristocratic Sablon, and the upmarket St Géry district. |
| Bulgaria itsBlack Sea coast attracts visitors year round and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Southeast Europe. It has a wide range of activities from out door adventure to some of Europe's best nightspots. |
| Cyprus The largest island in the Med and a popular tourist destination renowned for its sea sun and sand. |
 Czech Republic a mountainous country noted for its outdoor recreation and architecture and one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations. |
| Denmark not a cheap destination, but a happy one. The island capital Copenhagen is very sophisticated and Lego land a children's holiday paradise. The are also fantasy castles and stunning national parks. |
| Estonia the capital city Tallinn is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. |
| Finland A land of forests and lakes and where the north endures a perpetual winter darkness. |
 France The largest EU country famed for the romantic flavor of Paris. |
 Germany now recovered from WW2 and one of the most powerful EU countries. If you need an excuse to get plastered, head for Oktoberfest, a German beer festival held in Munich in September and October. The capital Berlin is dubbed as the Clubbing Capital of Europe and there are countless attractions including the drive as fast as you like autobahns. |
 Greece home to the Olympic Games and has may great beaches. Here you will also find sun the drenched Greek islands of Santorini, Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes as well as te nightlife in Mykonos and Ios. Beware of unmetered taxis, time share offers and any offer to good to be true. |
| Hungary A popular tourist destination with the largest lake in central Europe. The cities are best viewed at night on your way to the many bars, but be aware some bars and clubs operate scams as one traveler reported being charged US$1100.00 for a couple of rounds of drinks. |
| Iceland A country in the making as volcano's continuously erupt on this remote island in the North Atlantic where the crime rate is almost zero and the people free to dream. Enjoy the rugged outdoors and get to know the locals in the bars of Reykjavík. |
 Ireland With a deeply spiritual mystical history prior to the arrival of the Celts around 1000 BC and its being conquered by the Catholic Church by the year 600 AD. Today Ireland is renowned for the 'little people' believed to be present to this day in secluded places, music to lighten feet and hearts, and its charming people. |
| Italy home to remnants of the Roman Empire. |
| Latvia A former Russian state in the north of Europe. |
| Lithuania A former Russian state in the north of Europe. |
| Luxembourg They speak Luxembourgish, French and German, and drink lots of beer. |
| Malta A group of Mediterranean islands with a rich history and a popular tourist destination. |
| Netherlands The land of dykes and the canal city of Amsterdam. |
| Poland South of the Baltic Sea, Poland is an old country with a rich history. |
| Portugal old-fashioned charm, picture-perfect villages and great beaches. |
| Romania Famous for the Dracula legend, Romania is a country of old world charm. |
| Slovakia a landlocked country and popular skiing destination. |
| Norway A land of fiords and great nation parks. |
| Slovenia great for hiking and skiing. |
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| Spain no bull, but EU beach party central. |
| Switzerland Not a member of the European Union, this mountainous land locked country is renowned for its outdoor recreation. |
| Sweden not every Swede is blond and beautiful, but the country in magnificent. |
| United Kingdom Renowned for pomp and royalty, the Brits for their stoicism. |
