During our more than six years based in Vienna, my husband and I took advantage of our time there to explore much of Austria, Italy, Spain, and Germany. In fact, we did so much that our local friends would often call us to see what was going on.  

American travelers tend to avoid Europe in winter because it is cold. However, the holiday markets are a wonderful opportunity and give you a chance to be a part of something truly local. The markets are really fun, with free concerts, traditional music, and dance and great crafts for sale. Even on the coldest nights, locals gather to enjoy hot cider, spiked punch, and other local drinks. Almost every major city and even small towns host Christmas markets and many offer rides and special entertainment for children.  Whenever you visit, there will probably be a festival or event where you can take part in the local culture. For example, Vienna has free concerts and movies in its main square year-round, with traditional food and crafts booths. 

The distances are much shorter in Europe, so it is easy to visit five or six countries in a single trip. If you prefer not to drive yourselves, trains are very convenient. I am currently planning a three-week trip for a family. I am planning activities where they will interact with people from different backgrounds and I am sure the children will return with a new perspective and appreciation of the U.S.  

When I plan your trip to Europe, I think through every detail. I will advise you on local customs, and let you know which countries require long pants and covered shoulders to enter their churches. I will also remember to tell you if the countries you are visiting require a special “vignette” or toll sticker. The penalty for not having it is quite high, and unless the rental company is aware that you will be crossing a border they may not remember to tell you.   

I bring personal experience acquired during my years of living and traveling Europe plus the expertise and clout that comes with working at Protravel to every European trip I plan. I’d love to use my insider’s vision to plan your next Europe adventure.