When considering driving in Europe, the image that comes to mind for many of us will no doubt be something like the infamous driving scene in National Lampoon's European Vacation: eternally trapped in a roundabout, surrounded by aggressive French (or Italian or British) drivers who won't let the timid Americans out. It's true that driving in a foreign country can be daunting at first, especially when you're unfamiliar with the driving rules in Europe, but driving is often a necessity for visitors renting a villa or apartment outside of the major cities. So unless you've managed to convince your companions that a full-time chauffeur is the answer to your European driving woes, you're going to need a little help. Here, for your edification, are some general guidelines about driving in Europe.

For the fortunate few, life isn’t complete without a backpacking trip through Europe. This right of passage is believed to further the maturation process of college students, according to sociologists. Of course, others have opined that copious amounts of alcohol, sun and Amsterdam have something to do with it.

Visiting Eastern Europe is an enjoyable step back in time and a top travel destination. Here’s the scoop on what you need to consider when trying to get there. Getting To and Around Eastern Europe Eastern Europe has been open to travel for roughly 18 years following the fall of the Soviet Union.

Much to the delight of travelers, Eastern Europe has proven to be an incredibly beautiful and charming slice of old world Europe. From Prague to Budapest and everywhere in between, Eastern Europe offers much to be admired and prices are cheap. Catching a plain to the far east of Europe isn’t particularly difficult, but it really depends on the exact destination you are trying to reach. Most countries are reached by first stopping in Western Europe, but direct flights can be found depending on your departure location.