The War Tax: What the Iran Conflict Is Costing Your Trip to Europe
As the war in Iran continues to drag on and on, things are getting dicey for European fuel access, and airlines are passing that dicey-ness on to you, the consumer. I dive in to the ins and outs of fuel surcharges, sky holes, and more to help prepare you for this year’s European vacation.
2,000 Years of History vs Your Bags: Europe’s New Rules on Wheeled Luggage
Europe has been quietly (and in some cases loudly) cracking down on wheeled luggage in historic city centers. I break down what's real, what's rumor, and what you should actually do with your luggage so you don't start your dream trip with a fine and a very judgmental Italian police officer.
The War in Iran: What it Means for Your Trip to Europe
The U.S. launched military operations against Iran on February 28th, and the ripple effects on global travel have been significant. If you have a trip to Europe on the books and you're not sure what to do, we've broken down exactly what's happening, what it means for Western Europe and Türkiye specifically, and what you should be watching right now.
Europe is Charging You Just to Show Up Now
Tourist taxes in some countries have been around for a while. But this year, they’re increasing in cost, being rolled out in new countries and towns around Europe, and formerly free sites now will cost you a samoleon or two. I’ll break down some of the costs, why they’re happening, and why I think they’re a good thing, actually.
Europe wants your fingerprints now!! Yay?
The halcyon days of the passport stamp in Europe is nothing but a gauzy, cherished memory as European countries roll out their new Exit/Entry System, or EES. Find out the what, why, and how-much-time-is-this-going-to-take-me-NOW-dammit-at-passport-control.
New Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus in Ireland!
Ireland has just announced an incredibly cool new Hop-On Hop-Off bus in County Clare! With seven different routes to choose from, taking you around the Burren, the Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, and points in between, this limited-run bus service is an absolute must-do!
THE POPE HAS DIED: WHAT HAPPENS NOW
Pope Francis has died, and when a Pope dies, it invariably sets in motion a centuries-old series of events that, let’s face it, impact a trip of a lifetime to visitors of Rome. So if you’re in Rome, what happens now?
DO EUROPEANS REALLY HATE AMERICAN TRAVELERS?
Despite what you’ve read on social media, Europeans do NOT hate American tourists. Be a good tourist, and you’ll be treated well in return, I promise.
JUBILEE YEAR IN ROME
2025 is Jubilee year in Rome. What does it mean, why do they do it, and what can you expect when you travel there in 2025? I outline what it’s all about.
ETIAS AND YOU
Starting in 2026 (allegedly), citizens from the U.S. will need an ETIAS — European Travel Information and Authorization System — to travel to Europe. It’s not a visa, and it’s not scary, I promise!