There is a wide range of climates and landscapes in Europe, from the warm and sunny Mediterranean to the moderate central region and the cold and snowy northern countries. What you'll need to pack depends on a wide variety of conditions such as where you are going and when you are going. Packing for Switzerland or Germany is going to be different from packing for Italy or Portugal. More so, what you bring to Europe in August varies greatly from what you bring in December.

Port wine, seafood, surfing, and azulejos? Those are just a few of the things that come to mind when someone mentions Portugal. Some visitors, even if they are unfamiliar with the term, may have mental pictures of glazed ceramic tiles. Numerous stunning examples of these tiles can be found all over Portugal due to their widespread use and veneration in the country's architecture and culture. The use of tiles in Portuguese homes and buildings is one of the country's most defining cultural traits. Tiles can be found covering the floors of public spaces, buildings, train stations, and even some private homes. They can merely serve as decorations, but they can also help to teach us about our past or simply illustrate stories that are significant to the area where they are found. It is impossible to discuss Portugal, especially its capital Lisbon without mentioning azulejos, which in English is more commonly referred to as "tiles."

Now that we are well into the month of December, the transition into the brand new year will only take a matter of days. The beginning of a new year also means the beginning of many new resolutions, new plans, and new experiences. Your travel plans for the upcoming year should be one of the top points on your new year's vision board. This is especially important if you are a travel enthusiast like myself. However, regardless of where you plan to go, the local climate has the potential to either enhance or detract from your overall travel experience. It is essential that you are aware of the best destinations to visit at different times of the year in order to have a satisfying vacation. Some events may only take place during particular seasons, and pleasant weather can only be expected during particular months of the year.