Having a European Summer in Locally
Lori Harvey via Lori Harvey Instagram
Last year, I felt that it was very on trend to have a “European Summer” where vacationers would leisurely travel through Europe. Travel is not available to all of us right now but I still wanted to reclaim my summer and have a European summer without leaving town.
Based on a few websites I read, a European summer typically includes italian pizza oven pizza, canal rides, hiking, vineyard tours and wine tasting, castle tours, gelato and an orchestra. With a bit of creativity, I decided to bring these things to me and explore my city in the process.
Authentic Pizza
When people go get pizza in Europe, it seems to always be fresh, homemade and straight from an outdoor pizza oven. Luckily there are a few local and affordable pizza restaurants that use pizza ovens.
Boat Ride
Canal rides are popular in Europe. We dont have any canals I know of but we do have boat tours and some tours even have themes and dinners.
Nature Hike
Hiking in the mountains is another popular thing. I tried to find some trails in a good location with good views and lots of vegetation and a trail I havent been on ever. I think lots of greenery can trick me into thinking I escaped the country.
Wine Tasting
Outdoor wine tasting is a staple for all the girlies traveling in Europe. It always looks so serene and beautiful to sip while looking over the vineyard. Its a level up from indoor wine tasting in my opinion.
Castle Tour
We do not have castles where I live as far as I can tell but we do have mansions to tour. They are usually old and are owned by foundations or states but it might be interesting and if not, it will at least give me ideas for my future mansion.
Gelato
Gelato is the italian word for “ice cream” but they use more more milk than American ice cream, less cream than American ice cream and no eggs. Its also churned slower and is much thicker than our traditional ice cream. I have never had gelato before but I have always wanted to try it.
Classical Music
Something else that is recommended for all European Summer travelers is to see a live orchestral show. I do not think it is concert season in the summer at least where I live so if I do not find something I will settle for live outdoor music played by bands. Live music is always a treat but its elevated when the weather is enjoyable as well.
I am putting these ideas on my calendar. I want to have fun this summer and these are great weekend activities. I plan on going solo but I could also see these being good friend dates or family activities. I am very excited and I am probably more excited for the outfits I plan to wear. I hope you got some ideas on how to have a European summer without even going on a plane.
Ciao xo