While on my recent transatlantic cruise that I took earlier this year, I visited 6 cities in Europe (1 in Portugal and 5 in Spain).  This was my first visit to Europe.  After traveling all over the United States for the past 12 years, I decided it was time to venture out and experience Europe.

I chose Spain as a destination because of it’s long and varied history, the language (which I speak a little), culture, and the location. This post is not about a specific place but rather about my general observations and experiences visiting Europe and Spain.

Getting There

I went by ship because I wanted a sea excursion experience.  Gaining entry from off the ship was pretty easy.   For most US residents, a current US Passport is all you need (no need for a Visa).  I wasn’t sure what to expect at the entry points. I found the entry procedure quick and unencumbered.  A quick glance at my passport and that was it.  The same was true at my entry to the UK at Heathrow.  From my experience, driving into Canada (and returning into the US) is more encumbering than gaining entry into Europe.

The Climate

I visited in April.  It was warmer than I expected.  Our route across the Atlantic was more south than usual to avoid some bad weather.  As a result, we had very moderate and warm weather out in the Atlantic.  It was a little humid.  When we arrived in southern Spain (Cadiz) it was warm, sunny, and dry. Inland in Seville is was even warmer.  The temps and weather at all our stops (Malaga, Cartagena, Alicante, Barcelona) were similar.  It was sunny, very dry, and some places were experiencing drought.

I can see why southern Spain is popular with Europeans.  There are lots of beaches and it’s sunny and warm.

The Cities

I was amazed at how old some of these cities are.  Most existed back to the Roman era and have many centuries of history.  The building architecture is influenced by the history especially from the period of the Moors occupation (700 ad to 1400 AD), when southern Spain was under Muslim rule.

The cities are old but very well maintained and clean.  There are nice wide sidewalks.  I noticed that there’s less asphalt and more tile or pavers used for the walkways.  There’s also plenty of green space and vegetation (palm trees), parks, sitting areas, and outside dining.  Obviously the warm sunny weather allows for plenty of outdoor time.

I didn’t drive in Europe, but I noticed that traffic signage was good.  The cars were all small – no SUV’s or pickup trucks.  The car drivers were respectful of the traffic laws  There’s noticeable public transportation and plenty of scooters and small motorbikes (no Harleys).  Drivers appeared respectful of pedestrians.

There’s plenty of walking areas.  Unlike the US, which is a car driving society, there’s a good balance between pedestrian and driving spaces.  Walkways versus roads seem to dominate the busy inner city areas versus roads.

The Food

The US is the land of large portions, grande sized coffees, 20 oz beers, big gulps, etc.  In Spain, it seems like all the portion sizes are smaller than what we have in the US.  Wine glasses hold 5 oz vs 8 oz.  Coffee cups hold 2-4 oz versus 8-10 oz in the US.  The food appears more fresh and locally made.  There are less fast food places and more small cafes. Eating is done leisurely.

The food is delicious and I loved it – especially tapas or small plates.  Typically a meal is served with a small glass of wine. I could get used to eating like a European.  It appears to be much healthier.

The People

I didn’t get to meet a lot of locals while off the ship.  The people I did meet were friendly and many spoke some English. It helped to know some quick Spanish phrases like Buen Dia, Gracias, Hola, Por Favor, and donde esta los banos.  In the cities I visited, there were lots of people walking.  I had read to be wary of pickpockets in the cities.  We were told that most look just like tourists.  I did see some characters who may have been scouting out tourists, but I was vigilant, took precautions, and had no trouble.  I walked around in Ponta Delgada, Seville, Malaga, Cartagena, and Alicante.  I felt safe everywhere I went.

Currency

I converted and brought some Euros with me before I left home.  I also brought a Capital One Venture credit card, which did not charge fees for foreign transactions.  The credit card worked fine everywhere I used it.   I did all purchases in local currency.  I only used the Euros for small purchases like bottles of water, tips, and entrance fees.  Europe appears to be very credit card friendly.  Next time, I won’t bring as many Euros.

Plan to Return

I had a very good experience in Europe.  I enjoyed it – getting to experience a different culture and a different history.  I liked the climate, it was safe, and I found it very easy to navigate and get around.  The Azores were very different from a terrain perspective.  Being volcanic, it looked more like Hawaii than Europe.  I’d like to return and see more.  That’s why I booked another transatlantic cruise for next year stopping at some different places.

Please leave a comment and let me know what you think of Europe and other good places to visit there.