If you read one of our recent posts, Reflections and Resolutions for the New Year, then you know that we are soon packing our bags and heading to Europe. Though we have both traveled to Europe before, this will be our first time exploring the region as a couple. Needless to say, we’re incredibly excited! And though we often wait until the last moment to plan our getaways, this is one trip that we want to do right—which means the organization and planning needs to start now!

 

We’ll be flying in to Stockholm, but with two and a half months, we are hoping to explore a lot of Western Europe. And unlike traveling in North and South America, plane travel is actually affordable in this region of the world. For example, Monarch Holidays offers affordable packages to destinations such as Barcelona, Nice, London, the Canary Islands, Malta, Munich… and that’s just the start! See why we are getting excited now? Here are a few of the places on our Europe bucket list:

 

Malta

 

We didn’t know much about Malta until we met a lovely couple from the country while traveling in Bali, but they completely sold us on this hidden Mediterranean gem.  With numerous festivals year round, including a Chocolate Festival and International Jazz Festival, a great climate, unlimited sunshine, and fresh cuisine, what’s not to love?

 

Germany

 

Neither of us has traveled to Germany as of yet, so we figure this is an absolute must! Music, castles, culture, history, museums, and mountains are just a handful of the German experiences we are looking forward to. Oh yea… and beer! The cities of Munich and Berlin are especially high on our list.

 

Turkey

 

We love adventure, and Turkey has got a lot of it. With activities like sailing, windsurfing, kite surfing and scuba diving, we won’t have any trouble keeping busy in this Mediterranean paradise. Which will be good, because we plan on eating copious amounts of Turkish delights! Specifically, Antalya, Bodrum, and Dalaman are just three of the places we hope to visit.

 

Spain

 

I studied abroad in Spain, but Dan has yet to visit the enchanting country. Needless to say, I am really looking forward to the opportunity to re-experience it with my husband! Having lived in the country for a few months, I have the most ideas for our visit here, which will of course include tapas and flamenco.

 

We’re still learning about Europe, and we’re excited to watch as our travel plans unfold! Luckily Monarch offers hotel, flight and holiday guides to all the above destinations, and more, to help us on our way.

 

What about you? Have you been to Europe? I know it’s a loaded question, but what destinations would you recommend?