Europe String

This summer, I spent a week in Lisbon, Portugal looking for the perfect Pastel de Nata. The creamy custard tart is the official dessert of Lisboa, both sweet and creamy, with a crispy pastry shell and a hint of caramel. When done well, it is divine. This summer it became an emblem of everything wonderful about Europe—the little delights you find on your travels that cost you practically nothing. You find them everywhere when you travel. Whether it’s walking the gardens of the Louvre in Paris, or eating gelato on the shore in Croatia or learning how to pronounce the French word for Mussels in Belgium—it’s these little things that make exploring Europe (on any budget) the part-time dreams of most would-be nomads.

This summer I fell in love with Europe all over again. Since I first visited Barcelona, five years ago, I’ve had a crush on all things European. So when the opportunity to write for a Europe on a budget blog arose, I leapt at the chance. Luckily for me, it’s not just any site, but EuropeString.com, one of the top 50 travel blogs according to the latest T List. Luckily for you, it’s about to get even better.

We’ve made some changes around here, you’ll notice the new logo and colors, but we’re just getting started. What I’m really excited about, is the chance to share everything I know and everything that I can find about traveling in Europe, having an amazing trip and doing it all on a shoestring. This goes beyond generic advice about using hostels or getting a cheap flight. It’s about getting more out of your trip, discovering creative ways to stretch your budget and finding your own personal Pastel de Nata moment.

And I will be your guide. My name is Christine Gilbert. I am a full time traveler, writer and photographer, who most recently lived in Madrid, Spain. I also blog at my personal site Almost Fearless where I talk about the process of going from a Fortune 500 corporate manager to a freewheeling travel writer and vagabond. If you ever want to contact me, give me feedback (good or bad) or just say hello, you can reach me at christine.gilbert@gmail.com

Let’s Get Things Started Right

So in the spirit of a fresh start and new beginnings, I’m giving away a copy of Lonely Planet’s Europe on a ShoeString. All you have to do is comment on this post and you’re automatically entered. On 11/15/08 I will randomly pick a winner from those people who commented. How sweet is that!

So go, comment, and get a free guidebook. And welcome to the new EuropeString.com!

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