Yes, savvy travelers may actually discover a silver lining to the cloud of Europe’s current economic turmoil—and, to a lesser extent, Great Britain’s struggle with the pound. The weaker euro and pound just might be your passport to the history, culture, and beauty of Europe this summer and fall. It seems many of us on this side of the pond have been trying to justify visiting Europe in recent years, and finally things have improved somewhat in the dollar-to-euro arena. So, while not necessarily a bargain, travel to Europe has become more reasonable—which is why we suggest you experience its pleasures without hesitation this year!

Of course, Europe always has been a favorite destination for celebrating a honeymoon or milestone anniversary, and a European trip still makes the perfect high school or college graduation gift, especially if your student has never been there before. For that matter, you might consider gathering up the kids (pre-teens and older will most appreciate this type of vacation) and the grandparents for a multigenerational adventure.