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Europe: Romance, Road Trips & Milestones Across the Continent
Your Guide to the Old Continent
While our first meeting happened on a Royal Caribbean cruise in Australia back in April 2019, our true travel story began in Europe. Scotland was our first adventure together, with days spent exploring Edinburgh, Inverness, and beyond. After a whirlwind month-long “first date” across the UK, Jenn returned to Canada—but our bond was just beginning. A few months later, we reunited in Cyprus, where our journey took a romantic turn as we got engaged at the legendary Aphrodite’s Rock. We celebrated with a trip to Paris, followed by a week-long road trip through five European countries. After two years apart from the continent, we returned in 2022 to explore even more—visiting Türkiye, Albania, Italy, North Macedonia, and more. Europe has given us unforgettable memories, deep cultural connections, and moments that changed our lives. We hope our stories inspire your own European adventure!
Countries Visited (18)
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Country Guides
Check out our comprehensive Country Guides with all you need to know before you go, including our latest posts, must-see places, interesting facts, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, cuisine, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!
Interesting Facts
Here Are 15 Interesting Facts About Europe. Some May Just Surprise You!
1. Vatican City is the Smallest Country in the World: This independent city-state covers just 0.44 square kilometers and is the spiritual center of the Catholic Church.
2. French Fries Were Actually Invented in Belgium: Despite their name, fries originated in Belgium, where they remain a popular street food often enjoyed with mayonnaise.
3. Iceland Has No Mosquitoes: Thanks to its unique climate and geography, Iceland is one of the few places on Earth without mosquitoes.
4. The Netherlands Has More Bicycles Than People: Cycling is deeply embedded in Dutch culture, with over 22 million bikes for a population of around 17 million.
5. Europe Is Home to over 200 Languages: With about 750 million people across 50 countries, Europe’s linguistic diversity is vast and vibrant.
6. Europe Produces 75% of the World’s Potatoes: The continent’s climate and soil make it ideal for potato cultivation, a staple food across many nations.
7. Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia Has Been Under Construction for Over 140 Years: Set to be completed around 2026, this iconic basilica’s build time surpasses that of the ancient Egyptian pyramids.
8. Denmark Has Over 7,000 Government-Approved Baby Names: However, certain names like Jakobp, Ashleiy, Anus, Monkey, and Pluto are banned.
9. Wales Is Home to one of the Longest Place Names in the World: Llanfairpwllgwyngyll is a famously long village name, challenging even locals to pronounce.
10. In Switzerland, Certain Activities Are Illegal on Sundays: Mowing lawns, hanging laundry, and washing cars on Sundays are prohibited to preserve peace and quiet.
11. Europe Was Named After a Phoenician Princess: The continent’s name comes from Europa, a figure in Greek mythology who was abducted by Zeus.
12. Clinking Glasses to Toast Is Banned in Hungary: This tradition is forbidden due to historical tensions after the 1848 war with Austria, where Austrians celebrated their victory by clinking glasses.
13. Bulgaria has the Oldest Country Name in Europe: Dating back to 681 AD, Bulgaria’s name is the oldest still in use on the continent. San Marino is Europe’s oldest country, founded in 301 AD.
14. Eleven European Countries Still Have Monarchies: These include the UK, Spain, Sweden, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Monaco, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, and Andorra.
15. The Czech Republic has the Most Castles in Europe: With a total of 932 castles, it holds the record for the highest number of castles on the continent.
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