Europe

There’s A Frog On The Porch

Europe is an extraordinary mosaic of diversity and wonder igniting the senses with every step!

From the enchanting streets of Paris to the cosy, smoke-laden coffee shops of Amsterdam; From the jubilant festivities of German Oktoberfest to the stunning beaches of Greece, and the exquisite flavours of Italian wine, an endless treasure trove of experiences eagerly awaits. Each country sparkles like a unique jewel, vibrantly distinct from one another, enriching the continent’s profound culture. Though Europe is my cherished home, I am fervently determined to unveil all the magnificent wonders it possesses!

The European Union

The European Union represents a political and economic union comprising nations throughout the continent. Its primary objective is to facilitate the unrestricted movement of medicines, establish a cohesive monetary system, and enable the seamless interaction of member citizens and trade, all without barriers, passport checks, or border controls.

The union originated after World War II as the European Economic Community (EEC), established by France, West Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, and Spain. In 1993, the EEC underwent reform and transformed into the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA). Since that time, the union has expanded its membership, incorporating nations from the Eastern Bloc of the continent. Additionally, certain member states have adopted the Single European Currency, enabling the use of a standardised currency within those nations, thereby eliminating the need for currency exchange among them.

EU Member States

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

Members that are not in the EU but are part of the European Economic Area (EEA) are:

Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.

Countries outside The EU are:

The United Kingdom.

PLEASE NOTE: From 1st January 2026 Bulgaria will be transitioning from using the Bulgarian Lev as currency, to the Euro.

For a period of 12 months following the Euro’s introduction the prices of goods and services in Bulgaria will be displayed in both Lev and Euro.

For one month after the Euro adoption, banknotes and coins will still be accepted as legal tender in Bulgaria, allowing a period of dual circulation for the Lev and the Euro. Lev can be used but any change will be given back in Euros.

IMPORTANT UPDATE

From 12th October 2025 the European Union is introducing two important changes for travel to Europe.

These are:

▶️ European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)

▶️ EU Entry/Exit System (EES)

▶️ The EU Entry/Exit system is a new electronic system that will replace the physical stamping of passports when you go through passport control when arriving in and departing from your destination. It will register all entries and exits to and from the participating European countries, which basically means it will register your movements every time you cross a border in or out of the EU/Schengen area.

▶️ ETIAS is the EU’s new travel authorisation which you will need to apply for ahead of your travels to the 30 European countries once the system is introduced. It is a similar concept to the USA’s ESTA and the UK’s ETA scheme. You won’t need an ETIAS for travel this year. The EU is looking to introduce ETIAS towards the end of 2026.

For more information visit the IATA website