Norway is one of those countries where every time I thought I’d seen its most spectacular landscape, the next fjord, mountain, or valley somehow raised the bar again.I’ve returned several times over the years, and I still feel like I’m discovering how much there is to see. From dramatic fjords and remote Arctic islands to … Read more

Germany is one of those countries I think travelers often underestimate. Berlin and Munich get most of the attention, but some of my favorite experiences are found beyond the big cities.I’ve discovered medieval towns that look almost untouched, explored castles tucked into mountains, wandered through beautiful river valleys, and eaten far more regional food than … Read more

Slovenia surprised me with just how much it manages to squeeze into such a small country. I went from Alpine lakes and mountain valleys to medieval towns, enormous cave systems, vineyards, and the Adriatic coast, often without spending more than a couple of hours in the car.What I loved most was how easy it was … Read more

France is one of those countries I could visit again and again and still feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface. Paris deserves its reputation, but some of my favorite experiences in France have happened far beyond the capital.I’ve found medieval villages, spectacular coastlines, vineyard-covered countryside, mountain landscapes, and cities that feel completely different from … Read more

Slovakia surprised me with just how much it packs into such a small country. I found medieval castles, beautiful old towns, traditional villages, and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Central Europe, often without the crowds I’d expect elsewhere.From hiking in the High Tatras to wandering through centuries-old mining towns, Slovakia gave me … Read more

I’ve spent a lot of time exploring England, and one thing I’ve learned is that London only tells a tiny part of the story.Some of my favorite experiences have happened well beyond the capital, wandering through tiny Cotswolds villages, exploring historic cities, hiking through spectacular countryside, and discovering coastal towns I’d happily return to again … Read more

Before I visited North Macedonia, I didn’t expect it to become one of my favorite countries in the Balkans. Then I found crystal-clear lakes, dramatic canyons, centuries-old monasteries, welcoming towns, and some of the friendliest people I’ve met while traveling. If you’re looking for a destination that still feels wonderfully undiscovered, this is it. Here are my … Read more

Belgium is one of those countries that quietly wins people over. Many travelers come for Bruges or Brussels, but it doesn’t take long to realize there’s so much more waiting beyond the obvious highlights. From perfectly preserved medieval cities and world-famous beer to grand castles, beautiful countryside, and some of the best food in Europe, Belgium … Read more

Cyprus is one of those destinations that offers far more than beautiful beaches. I came expecting sunshine and crystal-clear water, but I quickly discovered ancient ruins, mountain villages, Byzantine monasteries, and one of the most fascinating histories anywhere in the Mediterranean. Every corner of the island seemed to tell a different story. Here are the 10 places … Read more

Poland is one of Europe’s most underrated destinations and currently one of the best-value destinations for Americans. Every visit leaves me wondering why more people don’t include it on their travel itinerary. Beyond the beautifully restored streets of Kraków and Warsaw, you’ll find dramatic mountains, medieval castles, pristine lakes, ancient forests, and charming cities that each … Read more