EUROPEAN TRAVEL RESOURCES
Adventuring with Pride: Queer-Friendly Travel in Europe
Every June, cities across Europe come alive with rainbow flags, vibrant parades, and a spirit of celebration as Pride Month unfolds. For LGBTQ+ travelers—especially those venturing solo—Europe offers a welcoming blend of history, culture, and community. Whether you're looking to join the festivities, explore queer history, or simply travel somewhere you can be yourself, Europe has something for everyone.
Navigating Public Transit: A Guide for Solo Travelers
Getting comfortable with public transportation can feel like a small victory—and a big step toward feeling confident navigating a new city on your own. With a little preparation and a sense of adventure, you'll be riding the metro or hopping on a tram with ease.
Driving in Europe: What You Need to Know Before You Get Behind the Wheel
Traveling solo through Europe can be a liberating experience. While trains and buses are great, sometimes renting a car is the best way to see remote villages, coastal drives, or scenic countryside. If you're used to driving in North America, though, there are some important differences to be aware of before you hit the road in Europe.
Culinary Adventures: Cooking Classes and Food Tours to Help You Savor Europe
Food experiences are more than just a way to eat well—they’re a gateway into a culture, a chance to meet people, and a confidence-boosting activity for any solo traveler. On your next European adventure, leave room in your itinerary (and your stomach!) for a cooking class or food tour.
Walk Where the Stars Have Walked: 10 Filming Locations in Europe You Can Actually Visit
You don’t have to be a hardcore cinephile to enjoy visiting filming locations. These sites add a sense of familiarity and fun to your travels, giving you a playful lens through which to explore Europe’s rich cultures and histories. Best of all, these destinations are ideal for solo travelers—they're walkable, welcoming, and well-loved by visitors of all ages.
Off the Beaten Path: Lesser-Known Museums & Galleries
Exploring lesser-known museums and galleries offers more than just fewer crowds—it gives you a richer, more personal connection to the places you visit. As a solo traveler, these are often the places where you’ll have the most meaningful, memorable experiences.
Learn the Language and Live the Culture
If you've ever found yourself wishing you could understand the menu, ask for directions confidently, or simply connect more deeply with locals while traveling in Europe, a short-term language immersion course might be just the ticket. These experiences go beyond classroom learning—they let you live the language and culture while making new connections with fellow learners from around the world.
Say It With Confidence: 6 Short-Term Language Courses
Planning a trip to Europe or beyond? While you can certainly get by with English in many places, learning a few key phrases—or even taking a short language course—can make your travel experience much richer.
Reflections on the U.S. After Six Months in Spain
After living in Spain for the past six months, I recently returned to the U.S. for a visit, spending time in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Chicago, and Dallas. While I was excited to reconnect with friends and family, I was also struck by the many differences between life in Spain and life in the U.S.—some of which I had expected and others that surprised me.
Managing Crowds: Best European Destinations for Summer
For many people, the easiest time to take a long trip abroad is in the summer. Summer in Europe offers endless opportunities to explore charming cities, coastal escapes, and cultural gems. But summer is tourist season in Europe, so destinations can also be quite busy. The key to planning an enjoyable trip is to pick some less-frequented locations, while recognizing that you will have to navigate some crowds. Here are some of the best European spots for women and nonbinary travelers over 50 to consider this summer.
Volunteering Opportunities: Giving Back While Traveling Solo
Volunteering while traveling solo can transform your trip into something truly memorable. Whether you’re tutoring children, planting trees, or rescuing animals, every act of service creates a ripple of positive impact. For those of us over 50, it’s also an excellent way to connect with others, learn new skills, and add a sense of purpose to your travels.
Traveling with Mobility Challenges
Mobility concerns don’t have to limit your solo travel dreams. By planning ahead, advocating for your needs, and pacing yourself, you can confidently explore Europe and beyond.
Iconic Bookstores and Literary Sites in Europe
Traveling solo is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the literary heritage of Europe. Whether you’re wandering through historic libraries, sipping coffee where famous authors once sat, or getting lost in a beautiful bookstore, these destinations offer inspiration, history, and the simple joy of being surrounded by books. Pack your favorite novel and set off on a literary adventure!
Solo Travel Over 50: Memorable Moments on the Road
There’s something magical about traveling alone. When you’re on your own, every experience feels more vivid, every challenge turns into an adventure, and every interaction with a stranger becomes a meaningful connection. As a woman traveling solo in my fifties, I’ve collected a treasure trove of moments that have shaped the way I see the world—and myself.
Wellness Retreats: Finding Peace and Relaxation in Europe
Traveling solo can be an empowering experience, and sometimes, the best way to recharge is by immersing yourself in a wellness retreat. Whether you’re looking to practice yoga by the sea, enjoy soothing spa treatments, or simply disconnect from daily stress, Europe offers a variety of retreats tailored to help you find peace and relaxation.
Six Great European Destinations for Spring Travel
Spring is one of the best times to travel in Europe—flowers are blooming, temperatures are mild, and the crowds of summer haven’t yet arrived. If you’re looking for destinations that offer charm, culture, and beauty without the hustle and bustle of major metropolises like Paris or Rome, this list is for you. Whether you prefer strolling through historic villages, exploring scenic towns, or soaking in the peaceful countryside, these destinations are perfect for a spring getaway.
Destination Dupes: How to Travel Smarter (and Cheaper!) in 2025
Have you ever dreamed of visiting an iconic destination—Paris, Santorini, or Venice—only to be put off by the crowds, sky-high prices, or the endless struggle to book the "perfect" trip? You're not alone. In fact, nearly 60% of travelers are seeking out destination dupes—places that offer the same charm, beauty, and cultural experience as famous hotspots but without the hefty price tag or tourist overload. I’m sharing some of the best destination dupes to consider for your next adventure.
72 Hours in Venice
72 hours in Venice is plenty of time to see and do everything you want. Learn how to get around on the vaporetto, what to eat, and where to stay.
Stay Connected: Mobile Phone Options in Europe
When embarking on a solo adventure across Europe, staying connected is crucial, whether for navigating new cities, accessing your money, keeping in touch with loved ones, or simply sharing your journey on social media. But figuring out the best cell phone options while abroad can be confusing. Here’s a guide to help you stay connected while exploring Europe solo.
What to Know When Selecting Travel Insurance
Traveling solo through Europe is an exciting adventure, especially for women over 50 who are seeking new experiences, cultures, and personal growth. However, with this excitement comes the need for careful planning and preparation, and one of the most crucial elements is securing travel insurance. Let’s explore why travel insurance is essential and how it can protect you during your European adventure.