Europe Express

02/07/2025

🥖🍷 Savor Europe, One Bite at a Time! 🍷🥖

From rolling pasta dough in a Tuscan castle to toasting with sparkling champagne in France, Europe's culinary treasures are calling! Our latest blog highlights six unforgettable foodie experiences—whether it's beer and tapas in Prague, market-fresh paella in Barcelona, or Swiss cheese-making in the Alps.

🍝 Cook like a local
🍺 Sip like a connoisseur
🍫 Indulge like a true gourmand

Ready to stir up some wanderlust for your clients? Dive into our delicious roundup now! https://www.europeexpress.com/travel-blog/six-of-the-best-culinary-journeys-across-europe/

This selection of culinary excursions across Europe is sure to tantalize travelers' taste buds and inspire them to explore new destinations.

02/04/2025

🌟 Team Member of the Month: Carmen Cary Gashnikov 🌟

As Director of Host Partnerships, Carmen Cary Gashnikov has spent the past five years cultivating relationships and helping travel advisors turn their clients’ European dreams into reality. For her, talking about Europe isn’t just a job—it’s a passion she shares at every opportunity!

When it comes to favorite destinations, Carmen always finds her way back to Italy—the country that first sparked her love for travel. From standing in the Colosseum to sipping wine in Tuscany, sailing through Capri’s crystal-clear waters, or diving into Milan’s fashion scene, Italy continues to inspire her, just as it does for so many travelers.

Beyond Italy, her recent adventures took her through Switzerland, exploring Zurich, Lucerne, and Zermatt—and indulging in so much fondue that her family has now made it a tradition! She also embarked on a girls’ trip to Greece, where the historic wonders of Athens and the fresh seafood of Paros left a lasting impression.

Carmen’s love for travel fuels everything she does, and she’s always eager to help advisors craft unforgettable European experiences. 🌍✨

01/31/2025

💬 Travel Advisors, We Want to Hear from You! 💬

Help us create marketing content that truly supports you and your business! Take our quick survey and let us know what resources you need to sell Europe with confidence. As a thank-you, you'll be entered into a gift card drawing just for sharing your insights! 🎉

📩 Take the survey now: https://multibrand.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3D8c4sf6UbQRpfU

Your feedback helps us help you! ✨

01/29/2025

✨ With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, love is in the air—and what better way for travelers to celebrate than with a romantic European escape?

❤️ From strolling hand in hand through Athens to soaking in the historic beauty of London, inspire your clients to rekindle their romance in one of these dreamy destinations, complete with a stay in an unforgettable 4- or 5-star hotel.

💫 Explore swoon-worthy stays: https://www.europeexpress.com/fantastic-european-hotels/.

Explore our 5-star, 4-star superior, and 4-star hotels selected for their comfort and cultural flare across Europe!

01/24/2025

Make your clients’ spring and summer adventures spectacular! From the tulip-lined canals of Amsterdam to the sun-soaked vineyards of Tuscany, our latest blog is packed with dreamy destinations and unforgettable experiences.

🌷 Stroll through the flower fields of Keukenhof
🍷 Sip wine in Bordeaux and the Douro Valley
🏰 Explore castles in the Loire Valley
🍝 Savor Tuscan cuisine on a Private Gourmet Safari
🇬🇧 Uncover Britain’s history and countryside charm
🇵🇹 Savor the flavors of Portugal in Lisbon and Porto

Whether it’s art, food, history, or scenery, these destinations have everything to make your clients’ next adventure unforgettable!

Our Europe Specialists are ready to start booking your customers’ spring break and summer vacations today! Give us a call—a reminder, we can book a trip as little as 14 days before departure!

👉 Read the full article now: https://www.europeexpress.com/travel-blog/spectacular-spring-and-summer-destinations/.

Our top European countries to visit in spring and summer.

01/21/2025

🌟 Dive into the vibrant charm, rich history, and stunning architecture of Seville with an expert guide—our very own Kelsey Austin, Partnership Marketing Manager at Europe Express.

Kelsey has been to 46+ countries 🌍 and counting, and spent time abroad living in this iconic Spanish city! From the breathtaking Alcázar 🏰 to the irresistible flavors of tapas 🍷🍴, this city truly shines as a jewel of Southern Spain.

📖✨ Check out Kelsey’s blog post to explore why Seville should top your client’s travel list: https://www.europeexpress.com/travel-blog/seville-a-jewel-in-the-crown-of-southern-spain/

01/17/2025

🌟 Travel Advisor Spotlight of the Month: Jill Coltharp 🌟

Get to know Jill Coltharp from 3D Travel Agency, our January Travel Advisor Spotlight!

1. What drew you to be a travel advisor? What do you love most about your job, and how long have you been doing what you do?

- My passion for travel started with planning Disney trips for my family of seven. I loved organizing every detail, from ride schedules to dining reservations. Nine years ago, I turned that love into a career with 3D Travel Agency. I enjoy helping families, couples, and solo travelers create unforgettable memories.

2. What are your professional goals for the year ahead?

- In 2025, I’m focused on booking more European adventures and enhancing pre- and post-cruise experiences for Mediterranean travelers. I love working with Europe Express to create seamless, enriching itineraries beyond the ship.

3. What advice would you give travel advisors new to selling Europe Express?

- Build a strong relationship with your dedicated Europe Express representative. Having one point of contact streamlines the process and ensures you can provide personalized service to your clients.

4. How have you partnered with Europe Express to craft unforgettable European vacations?

- Europe Express has helped me design tailored itineraries for destinations like Rome, Florence, Lisbon, and Barcelona. Their flexibility and attention to detail allow me to meet diverse client preferences, from luxury tours to must-see highlights.

5. What do you appreciate most about Europe Express’s team?

- Their collaborative approach is unmatched. Christine Hickox, my go-to representative, is friendly, efficient, and incredibly supportive. She’s a true partner in crafting exceptional trips.

6. Where is your next European adventure?

- In July 2025, I’m planning a Danube River Cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen, followed by a few days in Prague. I’m excited to explore these new destinations and enjoy the cultural richness of Central Europe.

Thank you, Jill, for your dedication to helping travelers create lifelong memories! 💙

01/16/2025

🌟 Calling all Travel Advisors! 🌟

🚢 Planning pre- or post-cruise adventures for your clients just got easier (and way more exciting)! From Mediterranean escapes to Northern European gems, we’ve curated the perfect tours to complement any cruise itinerary.

Whether it's a few extra days in Rome, island-hopping in Greece, or discovering hidden corners of Amsterdam, these adventures add the perfect finishing touch to your clients’ cruise journeys.

👉 Dive into our guide and get inspired: https://www.europeexpress.com/travel-blog/tours-by-destination-perfect-for-pre-and-post-cruise-adventures/

💡 Pro Tip: Pairing a unique tour with a cruise is the perfect way to elevate the travel experience. Your clients will thank you!

Your clients can get the most out of their cruise vacation with these perfect pre- and post-cruise tours in some of Europe’s most iconic cities.

01/10/2025

🌟 Kicking Off the New Year with Employee of the Month: Parik Laxminarayan, CEO! 🌟

Meet Parik, our dynamic leader steering the ship at Europe Express! After joining the Travelopia Executive Leadership Team in 2021, Parik officially took the helm as CEO in March 2023. His passion for travel fuels everything he does, and he’s dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences that inspire, connect, and open minds.

✨ Why Parik Loves What He Does
“Travel makes the world a better place. We create dream experiences, touch lives, and challenge perspectives. Leading a team of passionate, growth-driven individuals who make this magic happen is what I love most.”

🚀 Parik's 2025 Goals for Europe Express

🔹 Drive exciting sales growth with our latest business enhancements.
🔹 Become the ultimate partner for travel advisors by offering unmatched expertise, tools, and support.
🔹Cultivate a thriving workplace where team members learn, grow, and achieve the extraordinary.
🔹Safeguard our data with industry-leading security.

🌍 Parik’s Recent European Adventures
From exploring Greece during the Advisor Appreciation Trip to soaking in the rich culture of Turkey and savoring the magic of Italy and Greece last year, Parik’s travels inspire his leadership every step of the way!

Parik's excited to kick off 2025 with passion, purpose, and a commitment to making travel unforgettable!

01/02/2025

Did you know pre- and post-cruise experiences can transform a great trip into an unforgettable one? Europe Express gives travel advisors the tools to help clients explore beyond the port, avoid travel stress, and immerse themselves in iconic destinations with small-group or private tours.

From Rome to Athens, your clients can uncover hidden gems, enjoy more flexibility, and make the most of their time on land. Ready to elevate their journey?

Learn how Europe Express can help you create seamless, stress-free pre- and post-cruise experiences for your clients: https://www.europeexpress.com/travel-blog/maximize-your-clients-cruise-vacations-with-europe-express/.

Europe Express provides carefully curated pre- and post-cruise experiences to enhance your clients' cruising adventures.

01/01/2025

🌟 Happy New Year from Europe Express! 🌟

As we welcome 2025, we're reflecting on an incredible year of partnership, growth, and unforgettable journeys. Parik Laxminarayan, our CEO, shares a heartfelt message of gratitude to our amazing travel advisors, recapping 2024’s accomplishments and previewing exciting projects ahead.

Start the year inspired—read Parik’s message here: https://www.europeexpress.com/travel-blog/an-end-of-year-message-from-our-ceo/.

Here’s to a bright and successful 2025 filled with growth, collaboration, and endless European adventures! 🥂✨

#2025

An end of year message from our CEO on all we accomplished together in 2024 and what is on the horizon for 2025.

12/26/2024

🌍✨ Our 2024 Familiarization Trips Wrapped! ✨🌍

Another year, another series of unforgettable journeys! This year, we hosted six familiarization trips, including our very first Annual Advisor Appreciation Trip. From exploring breathtaking landscapes to curating standout itineraries, these experiences showcased some of the best of European travel.

As 2024 comes to a close, our sales leadership and Business Development Managers are reflecting on their favorite moments from these incredible adventures—and the tailor-made itineraries inspired by them.

Catch the full recap and relive the highlights here: https://www.europeexpress.com/travel-blog/our-2024-familiarization-trips-wrapped/.

As 2024 draws to a close, our sales leadership and Business Development Managers share their favorite moments from our six familiarization trips of 2024!

12/25/2024

🎄 Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from Europe Express! 🎁

However you choose to celebrate this season, we’re wishing you warmth, joy, and a successful end to your year.

May the holidays be filled with cherished moments, festive cheer, and a touch of wanderlust for the adventures ahead in 2025! We look forward to crafting more amazing European adventures for you and your clients.

If you haven't already, read our recent message from our CEO on our successful year and what is on the horizon for 2025: https://www.europeexpress.com/travel-blog/an-end-of-year-message-from-our-ceo/.

12/19/2024

✨ A Message from Our CEO ✨

As 2024 comes to a close, Parik Laxminarayan, CEO of Europe Express, shares a heartfelt thank you to our incredible travel advisor partners. This year has been all about you—from expanding our team and enhancing service to creating tools that make your job easier.

Parik also gives a sneak peek at what’s coming in 2025, including exciting new projects designed to help you better deliver unforgettable European journeys to your clients.

Here’s to another year of growth, collaboration, and amazing adventures together! 🌍

You can read the message here: https://www.europeexpress.com/travel-blog/an-end-of-year-message-from-our-ceo/

#2025

12/17/2024

✈️ Heads up for UK-bound travelers in 2025! 🇬🇧

Starting January 8, 2025, all travelers to the UK must complete an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)—think of it as a quick, electronic visa.

Key Details:
🔗 Official Site: Apply for an ETA here (avoid third-party sites that charge extra!): https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.
💷 Cost: £10 GBP ($12 USD).
⏳ Validity: 2 years or until the attached passport expires.
📋 Pro Tip: Travelers must apply before boarding flights, though approval isn't strictly required pre-flight—airlines may enforce this, so better safe than sorry.

Insider Hack:
📱If using the mobile app, US travelers should scan the inside of the back cover of their passport (not the front) to read the NFC chip. Hold your phone steady on the last page, and you're set!

Fast & Easy:
✅ You can complete the process in minutes. Approval often comes back quickly—ours took under 5 minutes!

Coming Soon:
⚠️ Schengen countries will introduce their own ETA system (ETIAS) later in 2025—more updates to come!

This process mirrors the US ESTA system (since 2009) and Australia's e-visa program for Americans.

💡 Add this to your toolkit to keep clients informed and travels stress-free!

12/13/2024

📸 Congratulations to Our Photography Competition Winners! 🇵🇹

During our unforgettable familiarization trip to Portugal this past November, our travel advisors captured some truly stunning moments. A huge thank you to everyone who participated and shared their incredible perspectives!

🥇 1st Place: John Cinnamon – Douro Valley's breathtaking beauty
📸 Instagram:

🥈 2nd Place: Amelia Phillips – An artistic toast with wine glasses
📸 Instagram: .laid.back.traveler

🥉 3rd Place: Cheryl Cassie – The charm of Braga
📸 Instagram:

Congratulations again to our winners for beautifully capturing Portugal’s magic!

12/10/2024

🎄 Step into the festive magic of Europe’s Christmas markets! From the centuries-old stalls of Munich and Vienna to the enchanting streets of Berlin and Prague, these markets are brimming with twinkling lights, handcrafted treasures, and the mouthwatering aromas of mulled wine and seasonal treats.

Whether it’s wandering through vibrant city squares or indulging in local delicacies on a guided food tour, travelers will uncover the heartwarming traditions that make these markets so special.

Offer your clients a shared or private experience to immerse themselves in the charm and cheer of the holiday season—because unforgettable memories await at Europe’s most iconic Christmas markets.

✨ Ready to bring their holiday dreams to life? Let’s make it happen!

See our Christmas Market experiences here: https://www.europeexpress.com/christmas-markets-throughout-europe/

Europe’s Christmas markets are a timeless celebration of tradition, charm, and festive magic, offering travelers the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.

12/05/2024

🎁 Inspire Your Clients with the Gift of Travel

This holiday season, offer the ultimate gift: unforgettable European adventures. From Paris’s romantic strolls and Barcelona’s vibrant art scene to wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, these journeys are designed to spark wanderlust.

Highlights include:

🏛️ Rome’s cultural treasures
🌊 The scenic charm of the French Riviera
🏰 The historic capitals of Central Europe

Each itinerary blends breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and world-class cuisine to create memories that last a lifetime.

Use this guide to inspire your clients to plan their next adventure—or surprise loved ones with the ultimate holiday gift. Let’s make their vacation dreams a reality!

🔗 See Our Most Popular Itineraries ➡️ https://www.europeexpress.com/6-of-our-most-popular-itineraries/

Inspire your clients for their next vacation with six of Europe Express's most popular sample itineraries to iconic European destinations.