Europe is a dream destination for many and a frequent destination for many more. It has everything to offer just about anyone. Each country is unique and has a wonderful mix of history, culture and many local sights to see. No matter the country or countries you travel to, you’ll never run out of things to do. Even getting around is part of the fun.
Since the Schegen Agreement and the Treaty of Amsterdam in 1999, many European countries have joined what is known as a collective group of 22 Member States that have opened their borders to the nationals of 34 countries and have invited them to travel without a Visa for up to 3 months at a time.
For this simple reason alone, it makes Europe a very attractive travel destination. Nowhere in the world can you travel to so many different countries, some within hours of one another, in such a short period of time, with total freedom at each border crossing. All you will need to enter the 22 Member States is proof that you are a national of one of the 34 countries with free access, such as your passport and proof that you plan to return home after a visit of 3 months or less—for this purpose a return or round-trip plane ticket, a travel itinerary, a letter of invitation and/or a hotel or motel reservations receipt will work.
Of course, some of the more popular European sights to see are (in no particular order): France-for the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and the Champs-Elysees; Italy- for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Vatican City, and the Duomo Museum; Spain- for the Alhambra, Seville’s Cathedral and the Guggenheim; Germany-for the Royal Castles of Neuschwanstein, Berlin and the Bavarian town of Lindau.
There are five countries that you need to be aware are not part of the 22 Member States with open borders, they are: Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland, the United Kingdom and Romania. You will need a Visa to travel across each of these country’s borders. However, the rest of Europe is your oyster.
Now that you know why you should travel to Europe, start planning your trip to go. When making all the travel arrangements, be certain to get the travel insurance you need. There are many different travel insurance products to choose from and they are surprisingly inexpensive considering what type of coverage you get. Choose the ones that fit your travel plans the best. Suggested policies include: Travel medical Insurance, Trip Cancellation Coverage, and packages with multiple types of travel insurance coverage.
