For this issue of Global Writes, our members have focused upon Europe its ancient cities, whispering countryside, and soaring mountains; the fairytale castles and the cozy cottages; and the marvelous kitchens whether prepared in a cucina, cuisine, or kuchen, food and drink is central to the multi-cultural travel experience.

Travelers who visit Europe for the first time usually hit the high spots London, Paris, Rome, Venice most often in the summer. Now, trends show that travel to Europe is increasing around the calendar from the Alps in winter snow to the beaches of the Italian Riviera in the summer, and vice versa. Wine and/or cooking tours are the hot new trips to take, along with other specialized itineraries for art, architecture, and, of course, shopping, as outlet malls have proliferated across the Continent and factory stores offer world-renowned labels at a fraction of the price back home. Who can resist?

Though we ve only begun to cover the possibilities, we hope these stories will inspire our readers as they plan their trips to Europe. Hasn t everyone dreamed of taking a barge vacation in Provence, seeing the military tattoo in Edinburgh? Wandering off the beaten path to places like Ronda, Spain, or the Isle of Wight? Or, thought about taking a steaming thermal bath in Iceland or Weisbaden, Germany? Read about it here then live the postcard!

Sharri Whiting
Co-Editor, Global Writes
Roma