Europe

Wales reminds you to unfold your days–and life–like a map, understanding we can’t always refold them the same way. In this corner of the UK, the ever-present ancient structures and modern culinary delights are a vacation in themselves. Bilingual Wales (Welsh and English) has the most castles per square mile in the world, excluding the ubiquitous castle-like churches. Its population of three million people thrives in a vastly diverse landscape the size of New Jersey. Nearly everything fun you can do here is accessible by public footpaths that explore spectacular stretches of coastline, forests, intimate villages, and the world-class city of Cardiff. This place isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a land of feasts.

The rainbow provided cause enough for our guide to detour from the itinerary. He made a quick left-hand turn and came to a sudden stop overlooking the towering rock pillars.   The doors flew open, and 20 or so passengers tumbled out to capture this magical moment.    It almost felt disrespectful to take a photo without asking Mother Nature for permission.

On a breezy summer morning, I embarked on a tour of the villages of the Cotswolds. Famed for its quaint half-timbered buildings, overhanging upper storeys, and narrow alleyways, the villages of the Cotswolds possess undeniable charm.  Small group tour leader Ian McKenzie led us from the university town of Oxford into the inner recesses of the Cotswolds. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds spread across five English counties—Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

Germany's Christmas markets date back to the Middle Ages. Then, the markets were practical. People gathered to trade food and goods as they stocked up on essentials necessary to survive the long, cold winters. Eventually, the markets evolved into festive celebrations dating back to the 14th century. Today, those festive celebrations continue across Germany and around the world. But let's face it, no one does Christmas markets like Germany. Having recently returned from exploring the markets in southern Germany, I'm excited to share what makes them special and help you plan your own unforgettable trip.

October brings us many things including colorful foliage, cooler temperatures and costumes in celebration of Halloween. While trick-or-treating has long been a tradition in the United States, the origins of Halloween lie in the ancient Celtic world.

“There is never a traditional way of foraging. You develop your own approach over time.” Jyrki Tsutsunen explained when asked about Finnish foraging traditions. His approach combines careful identification with creative experimentation, without ever compromising the balance of nature.

Paris is polarizing. You either love it or you hate it. It’s either cliché or it’s charming. For every romantic who says it’s their favourite city, there is a critic who turns their nose up at its grittier areas, high prices, or crowded tourist attractions. Even Parisians love to complain about Paris (but isn’t that so delightfully Parisian?).

Strolling through the southern Spanish city of Sevilla on a sunny early spring day, the sweet smells of orange blossoms surround you as they waft through the air. These fragrant fruit trees flourish in the cobble-stoned streets and bring color to the beautiful Royal Alcázar of Seville.

Citizens of Commonwealth nations often have grandparents who were born in the UK. It was common for migration both to and from the UK to occur within the former British Empire. If such circumstances apply to you, there is a chance you can walk in your grandparents’ footsteps with a UK Ancestry visa. This visa allows you to live, work, and study in the UK for up to five years. Read this article to learn the requirements and documentation you need to provide to obtain this visa, and the application process you must follow.

The Scottish Highlands are a place of ancient history, stunning natural beauty, and magic. Among the older generations, some claim that high in its earthy hills you’ll find the homes of creatures only heard about in legend.

As the gateway to the world-famous Norwegian fjords, Norway’s Ålesund and Sunnmøre region overflows with an abundance of natural treasures. But nature is only part of the story. The town of Ålesund is a cultural treasure as well, with a tragic yet beautiful history. On a winter’s night in 1904, Ålesund was devastated by a rapidly spreading fire. The fire left 10,000 people homeless and 850 homes in ashes. In a span of three years, the entire town rose from the ashes. Rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style prevalent throughout Europe then, its new facade was stunning.

Post-election confusion had this crestfallen New York voter needing an escape in late 2024. England and the U.S. have always savored a special relationship, a unique bond, so it made sense that a little British wit and wisdom would go a long way in restoring my fighting spirit. The weekend pilgrimage also gave me reason to explore my growing interest in the roots of democracy heightened by political uncertainty.