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- Discovering Europe One Memory At A Time
Discovering Europe One Memory at a Time
Maria Shepherd
Syracuse, NY Travel Agent· 3 Years of Experience
Areas of expertise
Destinations:
France, Ireland, Italy, Spain, United KingdomInterests:
Adventure, Bucket List, Celebration Travel, European Culture, Global TravelAbout Me
Europe is one of the places that first made me truly fall in love with travel. My passion for European travel began while studying abroad in Spain during college, where I had the incredible opportunity to not only immerse myself in Spanish culture, but also travel extensively throughout Western Europe. Those experiences completely changed the way I saw the world and deepened my love for culture, history, food, architecture, and meaningful travel experiences.
What I love most about Europe is how every country, city, and even small village feels entirely unique. One moment you’re wandering through ancient cobblestone streets surrounded by centuries of history, and the next you’re sitting at a quiet cafe listening to church bells ring in the distance while locals gather for long, relaxed meals together. Europe has a way of slowing you down and inviting you to truly experience a destination instead of simply rushing through it.
Italy will always hold a special place in my heart and remains one of my favorite places in the world. I absolutely fell in love with the culture, the warmth of the people, the incredible food, and the feeling that beauty and history surround you everywhere you go. I loved exploring Rome with its ancient ruins and timeless energy, wandering the charming streets of Florence surrounded by art and history, and experiencing the magic of Venice with its winding canals, glowing evening light, and quiet beauty unlike anywhere else in the world.
I’ve also traveled many times throughout the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, and Ireland, and I continue to be drawn to their rich history, dramatic landscapes, and incredible charm. Ireland’s endless rolling green countryside feels almost dreamlike, while the Scottish Highlands offer breathtaking scenery that feels both peaceful and wild at the same time.
Some of my favorite European memories include experiencing the romance and beauty of Paris, wandering through museums in Berlin, tasting incredible chocolate in Switzerland, and soaking in the vibrant culture and energy throughout Spain. Spain especially feels like a second home to me after spending so much time there. I’ve explored cities including Madrid, Seville, Barcelona, Segovia, Salamanca, and Córdoba, each offering its own distinct culture, architecture, traditions, and atmosphere.
I love helping travelers experience Europe in a way that feels personal, immersive, and meaningful, whether that means sipping wine in a quiet Italian piazza, exploring castles and countryside in the UK and Ireland, enjoying fresh pastries in Paris, or discovering hidden local spots that make a destination feel unforgettable.
Europe is not just about seeing famous landmarks. It’s about the feeling of walking through history, hearing different languages around you, lingering over long meals, breathing in the scent of fresh bread and espresso from nearby cafés, and returning home feeling changed by the experience in the very best way.
Helping couples, families, and travelers experience that magic for themselves is one of my greatest joys as a travel advisor.
Areas of expertise
Destinations:
France, Ireland, Italy, Spain, United KingdomInterests:
Adventure, Bucket List, Celebration Travel, European Culture, Global TravelREVIEWS
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