Ever since my 19-year-old self first stepped onto the polished stones of a cobbled Parisian street and took her first scrumptious bite into a loaf of a “real” French baguette, I was hooked on Europe.
Beyond the quaint hill towns and fashionable cafés that make several European countries the most popular destinations among American travelers after Mexico and Canada, it’s the European lifestyle that keeps me going back for more.
Europeans choose to spend their time in lively public squares rather than hunkering down in big houses and fenced-in back yards.
They don’t obsess about fad work out regimens or diets, yet still manage to stay fit.
They savor every bite of their fresh, non-processed food and use mealtimes to focus on conversation with family and friends.
In a nutshell they understand portion control – whether it be food, clothing, housing, or cars – and they prioritize community well-being over personal freedom.
Now I realize Europe is far from perfect in a lot of ways that are simply too complex to delve into here, and by no means is every country in Europe cut from the same cloth. Still, there’s a lot to admire about this part of the world.
If you’re suffering post-vacation blues after a recent overseas trip, here are some ways to inject a little European flair into your everyday life.
Walk more, drive less
There’s nothing more American than the automobile – SUVs, pick-up trucks, jeeps – the bigger the better, right?
If you want to feel a little more European, make a commitment to using alternatives to your personal vehicle more.
Can you walk to a train or bus station and then hop on public transit to your job?
Maybe your downtown area or local farmers’ market is nearby, so instead of taking the easy route by hopping in your car, ride your bike or walk. Even though it may take more time, it doubles as a workout, is a great stress reducer, and is far more enjoyable.
Buy better butter
European butter is creamy and delicious, a far superior alternative to bland American brands. Sure, they’re a bit more expensive, but it’s a small price to pay for a taste of Europe.
Same goes for olive oil, and there are plenty of domestic brands out there that will do the trick.
Up your coffee game
I have to admit, I have no issue launching my day with a big cup of American Joe. In fact, when I first arrive in Europe (or anywhere outside of the US for that matter), I usually spend the first day or two lamenting the lack of grandé “to-go” coffee options.
Eventually though I come to appreciate my morning latte or cappuccino ritual. Served in a proper cup with saucer, usually in a lovely café, it feels more sophisticated and less of a rush job.
Fortunately, there are plenty of spots here in the US where you can replicate that coffee vibe. You could also grind your own coffee beans, use a French press, or make a bigger investment in an espresso machine for frothy lattes whenever you want.
Clear the fridge of bottled salad dressing
I was first introduced to “non-bottled” salad dressing in the late 80’s by my host mother in France who served a simple, homemade dressing consisting of olive oil and Dijon mustard – that’s it.
Traveling in Europe, I don’t think I’ve ever had bottled salad dressing like they serve in the US–you know the zesty Italians, creamy ranches, and ever-so-luscious Thousand Island. Instead, you’ll usually find a bottle of olive oil and some kind of vinegar at the table, next to the ash tray and sugar packets.
Why even bother with bottled dressings anymore? Put your money toward a high-quality olive oil to drizzle on your greens along with a few splashes of balsamic vinegar or fresh-squeezed lemon juice, et voilà,, you’re halfway to Europe!
Simplify your wardrobe
In France and Italy especially, I’m always in awe of how the most basic clothing staples can be combined to create a look that is utterly chic.
The key to this je ne sais quoi European fashion sense is quality and a “less is more” philosophy – think basic black dress accessorized for night or day, or a crisp, white button down accented with a punchy scarf or nice piece of jewelery.
In America we tend to fill our closets with trendy, “fast-fashion” pieces, creating outfits that can’t be mix-and-matched easily, that we wear just a few times, and that fade quickly from style if they don’t fall apart first.
To achieve that timeless, European look and ultimately extend the life of your wardrobe, buy higher-quality items focusing on blacks, grays, and neutral tones.
If all else fails in your quest to bring a little bit of Europe to your life, you can always start planning your next trip abroad!