BRB, moving to Europe.

Hey, I’m Liz!

I’m an American living in the US and love traveling.

The author smiles for a selfie with the Eiffel Tower in the background

So, when I finally carved out some time for a trip, I was stoked.

So, let’s talk about it!

1.The food.

Plate of traditional Irish stew with mashed potatoes served on a table

Oh, where do I begin?

2.Speaking of food, many restaurant menus are very transparent about food allergies.

For people with any food restrictions, this makes dining out soo much more accessible.

Allergen information chart listing various foods like milk, eggs, cereals with gluten, and seafood, indicating potential allergens in products

3.The walkable cities.

And apparently, I’m not the only one.

We walkedwell over10,000 steps a day (comfortable shoes are a must!

Arc de Triomphe in the evening with people and vehicles nearby

), and I loved that it allows you to take in the iconic sights up close.

4.Speaking of getting around, there are some unique forms of transportation.

5.The bathrooms are cleaner and have more privacy.

View of Venice canal with mooring poles and buildings, capturing the essence of travel in Italy

(I don’t know if this is the norm, but I was impressed!)

Also, the stalls actually provide privacy and have no awkward gaps like most public bathrooms in the US.

6.The free drinking water.

Automatic sliding door partially open, showing reflective red surface and metallic doorframe, in a contemporary building

Yes, it’s true.

Cities like Rome have public water fountains with free drinking water.

(I’d recommend having a reusable water bottle on hand.)

Person's hand pushing a stall door slightly ajar in a restroom, highlighting a privacy concern

These decorative fountains are safe to drink from and can save you money!

7.The outdoor dining.

8.The people.

Old traditional drinking fountain with cold water in Rome

People mostly just mind their business, but depending on where you are, theycanalso be friendly.

I studied French for years and loved having the opportunity to use it in France.

One of my favorite memories was speaking to local food vendors many of whom only spoke French!

Sidewalk café with outdoor seating in a quaint European street setting, inviting for travelers

at the Place du Marche Notre-Dame (a marketplace) and even learning a little bit about their businesses.

I noticed that people appreciate your effort to speak their language, even if you’re not fluent.

9.The architecture.

Chefs preparing traditional flatbreads on a hot griddle at a street market

You aresurroundedby breathtaking architecture and historic buildings everywhere you go.

Even before going to Europe, I’ve always admired this from afar.

but casually vacationing in other countries just hours away sounds like a dream.

Trevi Fountain with sculptures in foreground and buildings under clear sky in Rome; a popular travel destination

I got a little taste of it when I traveled from London to Paris on the Eurostar train.

11.And finally, dining is more leisurely.

When you go out to eat, there’s no rush to leave.

Split image showing London's Westminster area and the Eiffel Tower in Paris, highlighting travel time between cities

(Often, in the US, youknowwhen you’ve overstayed your welcome.)

So, if you’re in a hurry, be prepared to wait.

A tray with various desserts including a slice of cake, whipped cream, and a crème brûlée, with spoons, on a wooden table

Airport waiting area with empty seats and a plane taking off in the background visible through large windows