Portugal has had the same border with Spain since the Treaty of Alcanizes in AD 1297. San Marino is the oldest settled country in Europe, while Kosovo is the most recent. Vatican City is the smallest country in Europe, and Gibraltar has the densest population. Portugal is the European country whose borders have remained officially […]
Portuguese traders stopped at Macau in 1516 and established an official outpost with China’s approval. Portugal tried to give Macau back in the mid-1910s, and China regained control in 1970. Macau is a special administrative region with Portuguese as an official language and a strong Portuguese influence. It relies on gambling casinos to attract visitors. […]
The Single European Act established the European Community and a single European market, which later became the European Union. It aimed to remove bureaucratic barriers, increase competitiveness, and harmonize policies. The act was signed by 12 countries and led to the establishment of the single currency, the Euro, in 1993. The UK did not adopt […]
A European plan includes accommodation but no meals, leaving guests to find their own food. This can be a disadvantage for those unfamiliar with the area, but also an opportunity to explore local cuisine. It can save money and allow for luxury accommodations. Researching local food options is recommended. A European plan is accommodation where […]
Europe offers a variety of experiences, making it difficult to choose the best vacation. Spectacular cities like London, Paris, and Rome offer history, culture, and charm. Scenic vistas can be found in Norway, Luxembourg, and Germany’s Rhine River Valley. The Greek islands and Spanish beaches offer relaxation and world-class events. Cannes’ beaches are perfect for […]
European cruises come in various types, including Mediterranean, Northern European, river cruises, and transatlantic cruises. Mediterranean cruises can be Western or Eastern, while Northern European cruises visit Scandinavia, the Baltic Sea, and the British Isles. River cruises travel along major rivers, and transatlantic cruises depart from the US and dock in Western European cities. European […]
Europe had many extinct animals during the Pleistocene, adapted to the cold and changing characteristics during glacial and interglacial periods. These included the cave bear, giant unicorn, and woolly rhinoceros. Hominids, including Neanderthals, also lived in Europe and became extinct. During most of the Pleistocene (1.8 million to 10,000 years ago), Europe had many unusual […]
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) provides financial and other assistance to private companies in former communist bloc countries to aid their transition to market-driven economies and democracy. It operates in 29 countries and is owned by 61 member countries, the European Community, and the European Investment Bank. The EBRD provides loans and […]
