I Feel Better In Europe

This one of the saddest of the more than 1,000 columns I have written.

I am writing in Budapest after spending four days in Warsaw last week and four days in Munich two weeks before that.

To put this in context: I have traveled abroad every year since I was 18 years old -- except for 2020, because of the "experts"-induced destructive, irrational, police-state lockdowns.

Thanks to all that travel, I have visited 130 countries.

All of my life, traveling abroad prompted ever more appreciation of America and ever more gratitude for living here. Every time I returned to the USA, I felt a surge of patriotism when I saw the American flag at passport control.

Something I could never have imagined has happened in the last few years. I have begun to envy Europeans. With few exceptions -- most notably the U.K., the one English-speaking country in Europe -- few of the pathologies that are destroying America are present to any analogous degree in Europe.

Here is an example: My wife and I and another couple hired a driver and an English-speaking guide in Warsaw. The guide was a woman of the left. Though we never raised any political subject, like leftists tend to do, she let us know her negative feelings about Poland's conservative president, Andrzej Duda, Hungary's conservative prime minister, Viktor Orban, and, of course, America's former president, Donald Trump. She let us know that she hated all three of them.

But when I asked her if anyone she knew would say that men give birth or that children should choose their own sex, she gave me a confused look. "Who does that?" she asked.

Europe's leftists loathe conservatives as much as the left in America does, are as anti-nationalism, are just as prepared to shatter the economic life of their countries in the name of environmentalism, support ever-growing state and EU power, and supported mandatory COVID vaccinations as much as the American left. But they are not prepared to tell first graders they can choose their "gender," remove the healthy breasts of girls who say they are boys, or have "all-gender" (as distinguished from unisex) bathrooms.

Few, if any, European countries are wracked by the trans tensions -- such as whether sex is binary, whether children should be exposed to drag queens and whether they should be given hormone blockers -- that are wracking American life. Even England has barred trans women swimmers from competing against women swimmers. As reported by Openly News, an LGBTQ news organization, "Swim England follows similar rulings by World Athletics, Scottish Rugby, FINA, England's Rugby Football Union and the International Rugby League, all of which have banned trans women who transitioned after puberty from competing in female categories."

The Wall Street Journal recently reported that a male JetBlue flight attendant wears a skirt while working on flights. That is also the policy of the British-based airline Virgin Atlantic, though I have not seen a photograph of a male Virgin Atlantic flight attendant wearing a skirt as I have a JetBlue flight attendant. And surely other U.S. Airlines will follow. Will this take place on board European airplanes? Perhaps. But if you people-watch on the streets of European capitals, let alone in small cities, you will find that far more European women -- including young women -- dress as women than do women in America.

In other words, no matter how left the politics of European countries, few deny the male-female distinction as much as America does. In fact, in Europe, they appear to value it.

There are other ways in which life in Europe seems less tense than in America. In Munich, Warsaw and Budapest, I saw virtually no homeless people -- and certainly no homeless encampments, no tents pitched on city sidewalks. Nor are children in European countries taught to loathe their own society as American young people are. And Europeans still venerate their statues.

Two years ago, even the woke New York Times acknowledged that Europe's left is different. Under the headline "Will American Ideas Tear France Apart? Some of Its Leaders Think So," the article began:

"The threat is said to be existential. It fuels secessionism. Gnaws at national unity. Abets Islamism. Attacks France's intellectual and cultural heritage.

"The threat? 'Certain social science theories entirely imported from the United States,' said President Emmanuel Macron.

"French politicians, high-profile intellectuals and journalists are warning that progressive American ideas -- specifically on race, gender, post-colonialism -- are undermining their society. 'There's a battle to wage against an intellectual matrix from American universities,' warned Mr. Macron's education minister."

During the lockdowns in states such as California that were ruining small business, the economy in general, and the precious and irretrievable years of children's youth in particular, I wrote a column about how I, a Californian, felt on a visit to Florida where businesses were open, people ate in restaurants without masks, and my grandchildren attended school and other activities of normal childhood. I wrote that in Florida, I felt like I did during the Cold War when I returned to the West after spending time in communist countries.

And now, for the first time in my life, I feel freer in Europe than in America.

That's why this is one of the saddest columns I've ever written.

The 15 Best Styles To Pack For Summer Europe Trips Under $50, According To A Writer In Paris

From comfy white sneakers to a pickpocket-proof crossbody, these are my go-tos.

© Provided by Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

As a travel journalist, I'm on the road the most in summer, both for vacation and for work when I cover seasonal hotel openings in the Mediterranean. After a decade living between the South of France and Paris, and traveling everywhere from Scandinavia to Sicily in summer, I've finally mastered my packing list with wardrobe staples that can easily transition from cobblestoned cities to the coast (and boats to boutique hotels).

I've found that a few stand-out pieces can go a long way, so I pack light with pieces that I can layer or wear for multiple occasions — and easily wash in a hotel sink. When I'm cruising around Croatia island hopping, a shawl becomes a skirt, dress, or blanket on the beach. In Copenhagen or Amsterdam, a flowy dress and crossbody bag are my "uniform" as I cycle around town and stroll along canals. And at home in Paris, when the weather gets balmy and we linger on café terrasses from late afternoon well past sunset (which is close to 10 p.M.), I'm in the same maxi dress and sandal slides that I've run around town all day in — and which transition perfectly for night. 

You don't need to spend a fortune to curate a look you won't get tired of, even if you wear the same dress multiple days in a row. From a vintage-inspired pair of sunnies that are only $24 to the most comfortable (and versatile) white sneakers I own to a seriously useful lightweight scarf that will cover your shoulders in churches, I've rounded up a list of 15 items to pack for a summer trip to Europe that will be just as stylish (and practical) in cities like Berlin and London as they are in jet-set locales like Saint-Tropez or Ibiza. Best of all, they're all $50 and under.

Related: I'm a Travel Writer, and These Are the 10 Under-$30 Amazon Belt Bags I'm Eyeing Ahead of My Next Trip

Keds Canvas White Sneakers © Provided by Travel + Leisure Zappos

Almost anywhere you're traveling in Europe, you'll be walking on cobblestones or up hills or strolling through parks or along rivers, and while some sandals can be comfortable enough for a day of walking, I always pack a pair of lightweight white sneakers. These round-toed Keds are similar in style to more expensive looks from brands like Superga — and just as fashionable. The Softerra footbed guarantees comfort even when you're sightseeing for hours, and since there's high tracton, you won't slip on slick, marble staircases like the Spanish Steps in Rome. As one shopper raved, the sneakers are "great for summer, washable, and break in."

What I love about these shoes is that the slight platform gives them a more fashionable look, so they can pair with anything from a maxi dress to a fitted romper, jeans, or shorts. They're also a good footwear option for a long-haul flight, since they're comfortable enough to run through an airport (and won't buzz when going through security, if you have TSA PreCheck) and slip off  easily on the plane.

To buy: zappos.Com, $49

Caslon Linen Pants © Provided by Travel + Leisure Nordstrom

Whether you're in a city or by the coast, linen is one of the best solutions for tackling a European summer. The unofficial wardrobe of the French Riviera and Greek islands, linen sets are easy and effortless yet still look put together. This blend from Caslon is machine washable, so it travels well (and dries quickly in warmer, humid climates like the Mediterranean) and pairs beautifully with a variety of other fabrics, from linen shirts and cotton tees to silk crop tops.

The draw string and mid-rise, relaxed fit suits body types like mine that are on the shorter, curvier side. As shoppers have said, they're "soft, fluid, and cool" and "fit true to size." I'll often wear these to dinner in Santorini or Sicily with a fitted, textured halter or one-shoulder top with a pop of color and pair of sandal heels to elevate the ensemble.

To buy: nordstrom.Com, $40 (originally $59)

Zara Printed Mini Dress © Provided by Travel + Leisure Zara

A breezy mini dress is one of my favorite summer staples because I can wear it day to night and dress it up or down depending on the occasion. A bohemian print like this in a subtle jade shade adds enough vibrancy without being too distracting, while the lace detailing and flounced hem give the dress a layer of femininity and elegance. The V-neck front and loose, elasticized cuffs mean you won't have to worry about cotton sticking to your skin on a sweltering summer afternoon, and if you want it to feel even more airy, wear a white lace bralet or bandeau underneath and leave some of the buttons undone. 

When I'm traveling in the Greek islands, I'll often wear a dress like this with a denim jacket or white shawl on cooler days or in the evening. For dinner, step the look up a notch with statement earrings, a woven clutch, and wedges.

To buy: zara.Com, $49

Steve Madden Slide Sandals © Provided by Travel + Leisure Nordstrom

In the summer, I rarely bring a pair of heels while I'm traveling. They take up too much room and aren't practical on cobblestone streets or strolling along the sand. Since the sun sets so late, most of my days blend into nights and I don't have time to go to my hotel or Airbnb in between sightseeing and dinner. A comfortable pair of slide sandals like these from Steve Madden have a flexible, padded footbed, so your feet won't get too sore while sightseeing around a city like Paris or London all day, yet they still look put together enough for anything from a gallery visit to a nice dinner.

The raffia gives these sandals a beach club feel, but the gold hardware adds a layer of elegance, so they can easily be worn somewhere chic like Le Club 55 in Saint-Tropez or on a boat cruising around Greece or Croatia. The slight heel gives it a more sophisticated look, so these sandals are great for night when paired with a black silk maxi dress or two-piece linen ensemble. 

To buy: nordstrom.Com, $48 (originally $80)

Anrabess Tiered Sundress © Provided by Travel + Leisure Amazon

In the summer, even when I travel for two or more weeks, I hardly ever need more than a carry-on, since most of the items I pack are lightweight and can be worn day-to-night. A maxi dress is one of my staples, and once I find my go-to, I end up wearing it most days. This smocked, tiered sundress from British brand Asos Design is a great addition to a summer wardrobe since the style is flattering and won't wrinkle or take up too much space in a suitcase.

The dress is so popular that it's quickly going out of stock, so I suggest grabbing this similar highly rated sundress at Amazon for even less. During the day, I wear maxi dresses with strappy sandals or sneakers, and in the evenings, you can dress the look up with chunky gold hoops, bangles, and a patent leather clutch. Simply handwash it in the sink while you're traveling and continue to rewear it. 

To buy: amazon.Com, $40 (originally $51)

Iristide Summer Scarf © Provided by Travel + Leisure Amazon

Whether I'm traveling by boat, train, or plane, a light scarf is a must-have any time of the year — especially in summer. This oversized shawl on Amazon is easy to throw in a straw beach basket and use as a sarong at the beach or wrap around your shoulders at night when dining or having drinks outdoors. Pro tip: It'll also come in handy for visiting European churches that require you to cover your shoulders.

You can wear it in a variety of ways, doubled around your neck and shoulders like an infinity scarf or even twisted and knotted into a dress if you're on an island. Lightweight and breathable, this cotton shawl is easy to handwash while traveling and also helps protect against sun exposure — an added bonus. As one shopper commented, this is "perfect for when even a necklace feels like it adds heat to one's body." And if you opt for white, you can tie-dye it for an entirely new look.

To buy: amazon.Com, $15

Aire Rectangular Sunglasses © Provided by Travel + Leisure Nordstrom

Retro shades are always stylish, but, depending on the style, the look might appear too costumey. What I like about these rectangular sunnies from Aire is that the subtle, rounded edges give the '50s-style shades a 21st century touch, so they won't feel dated.

Black or dark tortoise shell sunglasses can sometimes be too harsh for summer, especially if you're wearing linen and shades of white, but this lighter tort with barley tint pairs perfectly with resortwear. Great for strolling through fashionable cities like Milan or Paris, or lounging on a beach club in Capri, these sunnies will instantly make your ensemble look put together. They're on sale right now at Nordstrom, so it's a good time to add them to your summer wardrobe.

To buy: nordstrom.Com, $24 (originally $39)

Asos Design Linen-Kissed Dad Shorts © Provided by Travel + Leisure Nordstrom

Unless I'm heading to the beach, I often skip denim shorts in Europe in favor of something more tailored, like these khaki-colored Asos Design slouch shorts, which can be dressed up with a blazer of a similar shade or worn more casually with a bikini on a boat. Throw on a thin leather brown or black belt with gold hardware and the ensemble instantly looks more put together.

The loose silhouette gives it a breezy, summery feel, and depending on how you pair the shorts — whether with a Breton striped shirt, crochet crop top, or lingerie-inspired tank and tailored jacket — the look can transition from day to night. Throw on a few chunky bangles and a pair of studded black ankle boots and you'll add enough edge to (maybe) get into a club in Berlin like Berghain.

To buy: nordstrom.Com, $35

Cupshe V-Neck One-piece Swimsuit © Provided by Travel + Leisure Amazon

Whether you're lounging on the rocky shores of Nice or the golden sand of the Algarve, you're going to need a solid swimsuit for your summer trip. This black one-piece earns points for its flattering fit with ruching detail and a stylish halter — you'd never guess it was from Amazon — and it's so versatile. You can even throw your shorts over it like it's a halter top and bike or stroll around after you're done with the beach.

To buy: amazon.Com, $34

Lacozy Linen Button-Up Shirt © Provided by Travel + Leisure Amazon

These are the kind of stripes that no one can argue won't look good on them. This is neutral enough to pair with a variety of fabrics and bottoms, like denim shorts and white linen pants, or even over a bikini at the beach.

The slouchy silhouette gives it a laid-back look, and you can play with the sleeves by rolling them up, keeping the shirt open over a white cotton tee or tank, or tying the shirt at the waist to turn it into a crop top. This style of shirt becomes my go-to on overcast days while touring around cities like Amsterdam or Athens, and it's a good piece to wear on a breezy boat day. For a short sleeve version, try this lightweight linen button-up from Madewell.

To buy: amazon.Com, $27 (originally $46)

Tassel Crossbody Bag © Provided by Travel + Leisure Amazon

Crossbody bags are great for traveling in Europe because they can be worn while cycling through cities or touring archaeological sites and monuments (the inside zipper also helps protect against pickpockets that are so prevalent here). They're an easy day-to-night bag, so you can leave evening purses or clutches at home. 

I love tan and brown bags in the summer because they match with my wardrobe of neutral and beach-toned clothing, and the tassel and gold hardware adds a boho-chic flair. You can adjust the strap so it sits right where you want it to on your side, and the flap is a pocket perfect for anything you may need to quickly reach. As one shopper raved, "I'm super picky about how straps sit and feel, and this one exceeds my expectations by a long shot."

To buy: amazon.Com, $26

Free People Woven Packable Hat © Provided by Travel + Leisure Free People

One accessory I struggle with is a hat, since it can be a pain to carry through an airport and on a plane — especially on long-haul flights, where the potential of a hat getting crushed is high. But once I land, it's the first accessory I want to wear. This packable woven hat from Free People is the perfect solution, since you can throw it in your suitcase or beach bag and it'll unfold and never lose its structure.

The wide brim offers just the right amount of sun protection, and the woven design gives it a cowboy feel that's great for both the beach and touring around town. Plus, if you don't have time to do your hair or want to rock beach waves after a day by the sea, this accessory instantly pulls an outfit together without having to try too hard.

To buy: freepeople.Com, $48

Toms Rope Espadrille Loafers © Provided by Travel + Leisure Zappos

There's a reason espadrilles have been a wardrobe staple in Europe since they were invented in Spain in the 14th century — they're an affordable, practical style that's versatile enough to be worn to work or around town. Styles today range from simple to super spruced-up, but this version from Toms is a nice middle ground.

With their rounded toe and breathable fabric lining, they're comfortable — especially in the height of summer — but they're also an easy shoe to travel with thanks to the slip-on style. Great for the airport, walking on cobbled streets, and beach days, they're a stylish, versatile staple. Shoppers say they're a great fit, true to size, and comfortable all day, even if you're walking around for hours.

To buy: zappos.Com, $48

Free People Reversible Top © Provided by Travel + Leisure Free People

If you're planning to visit a few different destinations in Europe, the best items to pack are ones you can layer and mix-and-match. This white tank from Free People is a great wardrobe staple, since the reversible neckline allows you to wear it in multiple ways. The billowy silhouette is flattering on different body types, and the twisted straps add a subtle detail that makes it stand out from the typical white tank.

Easy to pack and textured enough so you won't need to worry about spotting wrinkles, you can pair this with anything from harem pants or a flowy maxi skirt to structured, printed shorts. Tuck it in, leave it out, pair with a blazer or cardigan; there are tons of ways you'll weave this into your wardrobe. One of my favorite ways to style it? Over a bikini top at the beach when I need a break from the sun.

To buy: freepeople.Com, $48

Asos Design Oversize Denim Shacket © Provided by Travel + Leisure Nordstrom

If you haven't heard the term "shacket" yet, don't worry, you're not alone. The concept is simple: It's a shirt comdbined with a light jacket, and you'll want to adopt the trend if you haven't already. This non-stretch denim jacket from Asos Design has a shirt-inspired silhouette, so it can easily double as both. The faded black also makes it more stylish than traditional blue denim.

The oversized look, button cuffs, and spread collar add edge to a classic ensemble, like a simple white ribbed tank and pants. I wear mine as a jacket with skinny black jeans and mules or slides, but you can pair it with an entirely different texture, like boxy, loose-fit linen pants, a leather mini skirt, or over a sundress. And if you decide to wear it as a jacket and it gets too warm, tie it around your waist for a '90s look that's definitely back in fashion in Europe.

To buy: nordstrom.Com, $50

Free People Convertible Open Back Sweater Tank © Provided by Travel + Leisure Free People

A sweater at the beach? Mais oui! When I went sailing a few summers ago in Sweden, a light knit sweater became my everyday go-to. What I love about this play on a classic knit tank is that the straps are adjustable and convertible, so it'll look like you're wearing a new top every time. Criss-cross the straps around your neck and it turns into a halter, tie the straps around your waist, and you have a belt. 

The honey tree shade of gold is versatile enough to match with most prints and stripes, so you can go elegant with silk pants, don a daytime look with a flowy maxi skirt, or wear it to the beach with linen or jean shorts. One shopper purchased the top in two colors, saying they "got so many compliments" when they wore it, that they "just purchased the second color for vacation."

To buy: freepeople.Com, $40

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SZA Serves Curves In A Sheer Pink Dress

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Source: Christopher Polk / Getty

SZA is serving body on the gram, and we love to see it. The singer, who is in currently on the European leg of her tour, posted a few pictures from her stop in Paris.

The curvaceous crooner posed on a balcony in a sheer, pink halter dress by Sammie Styles for Kiki Riki. She partnered the look with a pair of Tabi shoes that she changes out of by the second slide.

The comment section was pleased with her ensemble, and so are we! Stylist Jason Rembert left two fire emojis, while JT share a few love struck emojis. Summer Walker left her stamp of approval as well. "esssssss BUMBACLOTTTTT," she wrote.

"YESSS LOVE THOSE HEELS!!! THE OUTFIT! THE HAIR!!" one fan wrote.

The singer will make nine more stops in Europe before heading across the pond to the states. And while her tour is making headlines, her recent interview with Elle has the streets talking. The SOS singer told the publication, "I always wanted a really fat ass with less gym time. I didn't succumb to industry pressure. I succumbed to my own eyes in the mirror and being like, No, I need more ass."

"I treat my butt like a purse," she said. "It's just there to enhance whatever else. And that's why I paid for it, because it works all by itself."

Heard you, SZA! Your purse looks ahh-mazing.

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