All packed and ready to go, this time tomorrow, we will be on the streets of Paris, 65 degrees and sunny.
Oh my, even though we like to think we are experienced travelers, there is always something unexpected and new to learn. We planned to spend 3 months in Paris, a few weeks visiting a collection of small Eastern European countries, and then wrap up this 8-month segment in Italy. But then we learned about the Schengen Agreement.
This consortium of European countries does not mirror members of the EU or even include all of Europe. It is a group among 29 European countries that have a reciprocal international agreement that virtually abolishes border controls among its members. Formerly, each country had its own border and VISA requirements. Now, it is as if members of Schengen have one large “border.”
This is great news for Schengen citizens because it allows them to travel and work freely throughout its member regions. However, it means complications for foreigners and even Europeans from countries that are not a part of the agreement. US citizens and people from non-Schengen countries in Europe are allowed to stay in the broad Schengen area for a maximum of only 90 days within 180 days. That means our original plan to stay 90 days in France, and 90 days in Italy with 60 days in between seeing Slovenia, Albania, Bulgaria, etc., will not work.
It took a bit of doing, but we adjusted and found a workaround. Now, between our extended stays in France and Italy, we will leave Schengen countries and get this, the adjustment is a gift in disguise! The first stop will be Ireland, then the good part comes. . . amazing, exotic, and ancient, countries like Serbia, Cyprus, Jordan, Israel, Egypt, and Morocco. While these very varied places are not high on most travelers’ hot list, they will surely be interesting and will introduce us to a mish-mash of fabulous languages and cultures.
Come on with us! This adventure may be one of the best.
I know you guys are so excited to be traveling again. Paris is an incredible start!
We are flooded in right now. Impassable right now but by the grace of God, our house is safe!
You guys stay safe as always and I look forward to your posts! I love you guys!!
Wow! All that rain! I’m so sorry but still thankful your house is dry. Please stay that way! Our flight is at 8 pm tonight — right in the middle of the storm. We are hoping there is no weather delay, cancellation, etc. But we will just deal with it if we have to. We just want everyone safe!
Just know that we love you very, very much! Au revoir!! A bientot!
Safe travels. Sorry we never were able to get together this time around. Maybe next time. Sounds like a fabulous trip.
Hi Miriam, Yes we will see each other next time or possiblu even before as our mutual travel ways cross each other. Blessings to you and John.
Safe travels. Sorry we never were able to get together this time around. Maybe next time. Sounds like a fabulous trip.
Can’t wait to see you two in Paris!!! 🥰
Hello Sis and Stan…
I haven’t been in touch lately and I am sorry.
I spent two weeks at MD ANDERSON HOSPITAL in Houston, Texas during the middle of April for bladder surgery and returned home on April 19…recovery was a chore but two pain meds and 2-3 antibiotics have helped me move forward. I am getting better, stronger and uglier with each passing day…I am thankful to God for helping me through the surgery and for allowing me to continue along my earthly path until I go home to Heaven.
I pray you and Stan will have fun and be protected by the loving arms of Almighty God as you continue your adventures of life…
I love you guys …
Rick
Rick, To be sure, we love you too! It makes me sad that you have had to endure so much pain and concern but it also makes me happy that you have had the best of care. It makes me happpy too that you are recovering and getting stronger every day. You can do this!! Don’t ever let this stuff get you down!!! Ok, bear with me, I am going to go into my Mom role: Stand yourself up straight and keep putting one foot in front of the other. I believe in you and I love you too!! I know God blesses you every day and he blesses us too. For that I am grateful, eternally grateful.