Breakaway Destination Guides (International)

Europe:

Europe is conventionally considered one of the seven continents. It is the world's second-smallest continent in terms of area, and is only just larger than Australia.

Boasting a host of unique and fascinating destinations, Europe is a continent that offers something for everyone, from its rich history and diverse culture to its beauty, recreational opportunities, amazing entertainment, and incredible attractions. From the beautiful Mediterranean to countries steeped in history and culture, you will find plenty.

 Germany - The Blue Danube, Rhine and the Octoberfest
The Celts are believed to have been the first inhabitants of Germany. They were followed by German tribes at the end of the 2nd century B.C. German invasions destroyed the declining Roman Empire in the 4th and 5th centuries A.D.

Germany is Europe's most industrialized and populous country. Famed for its technological achievements, it has also produced some of Europe's most celebrated composers, philosophers and poets.

 Netherlands - The land of Dykes and Windmills
The Netherlands' name reflects its low-lying topography, with more than a quarter of its total area under sea level.

The monarch is the titular head of state. The Queen's function is largely ceremonial, but she does have some influence deriving from the traditional veneration of the House of Orange, from which Dutch monarchs for more than 3 centuries have descended. Her influence also derives from her personal qualities as Queen and her power to appoint the "formateur," who forms the Council of Ministers following elections.

 United Kingdom - 'A Green & Pleasent Land - This Scepter'd Isle'
The United Kingdom, consisting of Great Britain (England, Wales, and Scotland ) and Northern Ireland. Together twice the size of New York State. England, in the southeast part of the British Isles, is separated from Scotland on the north by the granite Cheviot Hills; from them the Pennine chain of uplands extends south through the center of England, reaching its highest point in the Lake District in the northwest. To the west along the border of Wales, a land of steep hills and valleys, are the Cambrian Mountains, while the Cotswolds, a range of hills in Gloucestershire, extend into the surrounding shires.