"European Delights..." by XtravelloverX

The first time my whistle was wet with Europe was nine years ago on a tour through during college. We travelled to: Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Italy, Czech Republic, Luxembourg and France. It was incredible and I have dreamed of returning to all the cities over and over.

It was a year before getting married, so, now I will retrace my steps with hubby, Marc. :) I never knew the world was so different than what I saw every day outside of Chicago, but, boy it is! :) And that's a good thing.

Since '97, I have returned to Europe several times w/Marc (Germany, Italy, Vatican City, England, Netherlands, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Russia) and Italy is by far his favorite...I just knew he'd love Rome and Venice!

What more beautiful city in the world is there? I cried as the tour bus crossed into Italy. The colors, the people, the smells...they are all incredible. Touring this country was a dream come true. Venice, Italy is a must for any world traveller, as there is no place that comes close to the uniqueness and charm of Venice.

What a wonderful moment during my return visit to Venice in '05...I stumbled upon the exact place where the photo to the right was taken. Eight years later I stood in the same spot but this time with my husband as someone took our photo. It was a beautiful feeling to share my most favorite city with him. :)

Searching for the John Lennon mural in Prague posed challenging b/c we had trouble understanding broken English directions. But eventually found it!

Locals actually sell postcards of the mural, which seems wild to me. There were postcards of the Hradcany Castle (seen in the background of the photo on the right)and postcards of a painted John Lennon mural. Wonder which card sells the most?

The Hohensalzburg Castle was enormous and fairytale like. We took the tram up to the top and walked around inside (highly recommended). The view of Salzburg below was surreal. Around the castle area is a giant chess board for human play, makes a great photo opp. There was a wedding strolling through town past us, so romantic and fitting for the setting.

Inside the Louvre Museum, very crowded, but still awesome to see the Venus de Milo, Mona Lisa and other 'musts' in person!

One cannot visit Paris without touring the Louvre.

Outside the Checkpoint Charlie Museum, which was one of the more memorable museums. It still puzzles me how a man was able to stuff himself inside of a suitcase not much larger than my wheeled travel carry-on.

Thank goodness the wall finally came down. It was heartbreaking and inspiring to read the stories and view the methods so many used to cross the border.

Europe is rich in a history we all can learn from, appreciate and share.

Happy Travels! :)