That depends. Who’s one’s favorite artist? Which artist will be highlighted? And, how much time is one willing to invest in the Louvre—the largest art museum on the planet?

To find the best art museums in Europe is as diverse as the food. But, to start with the giants of the art world—van Gogh, Picasso, Da Vinci, Michaelangelo, Rembrandt—is to get an idea of museums one can visit for more unknown, but just as talented artists, besides (and it isn’t the Louvre).

This is a given: Any places that don’t allow in persons under 21 years old!

…But seriously, when the kids have left home, so can their parents—literally. There’s no rule to say they need to keep the house once the kids are grown and gone. The empty nesters can rent an RV and see parts of the country they hadn’t had time, energy or money to do with before when the kids were living at home. How cool would it be to drive an RV from somewhere in New York State straight to Alaska, going partially through Canada? Amazing!

The kids are grown, in college and beginning loves of their own. You’ve released your baby birds and have much time to travel and be with your sweetie of over thirty years. What a great way to spend a thirtieth wedding anniversary, or a “just because I love you” holiday for those in the middle years.

Depending in where you’re planning to go and what you have to do, take, spend, save or barter to get there, the Internet’s chockful of great resources to travel in the most effective and efficient manner possible. Check out a few of these sites or find your own that work best for your circumstances.

Expedia.com—This site offers flights, hotels and car rental rates for those needing an entire package. Also covers international travels.

If you’re going to have an extended stay for your ride at the airport, better look into advance reservations. Many major airport hubs like Kennedy International, O’ Hare International and LAX have extended parking stays for a monthly fee.

If you need reading glasses for that eye-blinding small text used in the maps, by all means, use them! That text type is small for a reason—it’s to fit everything on the map that should be in that map. Another way to find if you’re going in the right direction: Ask a local where your destination is. They’re glad to assist you in finding your way and can give you landmarks to look for. Just pick a nice lady when you do ask for the elusive directions.

Who wants a know-it-all on a holiday? Some of the things about exploring on a holiday is that you learn these bits and incidentals about the country’s past on your own.Another thing gunky about escorted tours: You seldom dodge the itinerary. If you come across a beautiful Monet or a piece of jewelry you’d like to buy in the souvenir shop, you can’t get the name of the piece if you’re hurried along to see the next thing or hear some next tale behind the sights today.

Travel insurance is not a necessity for you to purchase when you are going on a trip of any kind but it can prove to be a good choice if something does happen. Travel insurance is an insurance that you can purchase when you buy your travel tickets, basically what this is, is an insurance incase anything unexpected should happen and you are not able to go on the trip.

For an outrageous drinking extravaganza, Amsterdam has it all, and then some! For a small quaint, yet very friendly atmosphere, Café Belgique is the ideal location for a visit. This small pub comes equip with the classical wooden carved countertops, with glass shelves to hold your beverage of choice, and brass taps at your beckon call.
Café Belgique
Gravenstraat 2,
1012 NM Amsterdam

As you are gathering all of the travel needs you think you may need, it is wise to be sure you actually grab the true essentials. Not only should these items be packed they should be easily accessible. It is wise to bring a first aid kit with you on any travel but it is a necessity when taking a long trip, whether it be one in the car, train, bus, or plane. One can never be to prepared in the event of a mishap.