Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy something through them—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend things I’ve actually used and loved, usually while dragging a suitcase through a European train station. When I’m traveling in Europe, I want to look like I belong—or at least not like someone who just got off a cruise and is about to ask where the Starbucks is. These are the things from Amazon I actually pack and wear. They have all been tested by me on planes, trains, cobblestone streets, and at least three boulangeries. And yes, every item here helps me blend in a bit more and makes travel way more comfortable. Let’s start with the MVPs… Kindles: All of Them I travel with my Kindle Paperwhite, but I also own the Colorsoft and the mini one because I have a problem and I’m not sorry. Whether I’m on a flight or sitting in a café pretending to journal while actually reading spicy novels, one of these is always in my bag. Kindle Paperwhite (glare-free display and weeks of battery life) Kindle Colorsoft (everything you love about the Paperwhite, but with a color display) Babyass Kindle (lightest and most compact, and most-likely to be thrown in my bag) The Cardigan That Makes Me Feel Like a Parisian Aunt A simple v-neck cardigan is basically the French woman’s version of a hoodie—chic, effortless, and perfect for layering. I throw it over a tank dress or pair it with jeans and a scarf and suddenly I’m sipping wine and judging people in the best way. I have this in brown, black, cream, green, and burgundy. v-neck cardigan This Square-Neck Jersey Dress Stretchy. Flattering. Doesn’t wrinkle. Looks cute with sneakers or sandals or boots. Basically the dress version of a croissant: soft, versatile, and always a good idea. Square-Neck dress The Scarf That Screams “Oui”

Thinking about retiring early in Europe? One of the biggest reasons people make the leap is simple: your money stretches further. But how much further, exactly? Let’s break down the key expenses — housing, healthcare, groceries, and more — to see if life in Europe could give you more for less. 🏡 Housing – More Charm, Less Cost Housing is usually the biggest expense, so let’s start there. In most major European cities, rent and home prices are significantly lower than in comparable US cities. - New York City vs. Paris – A one-bedroom apartment in NYC averages around $3.5k/month, while in Paris, you could find something similar for around $1.5k. - Los Angeles vs. Lisbon – Rent for a central Lisbon apartment averages around $1.2k/month — less than half the cost of a comparable place in LA. And if you’re open to small towns or countryside living, the savings are even bigger. In parts of Spain, Portugal, and Italy, you can rent a charming village house for under $1k/month. 🩺 Healthcare – High Quality at a Fraction of the Cost One of the biggest financial shocks for Americans moving to Europe is how affordable healthcare is. Most European countries offer universal healthcare, which means you’ll pay little to nothing for doctor visits and procedures. - A standard doctor’s visit in France: €25 (about $27). - Prescription medications are often subsidized or capped at low rates. - If you opt for private insurance, it’s usually around $150–$300/month — a far cry from US premiums. 👩‍🌾 🍽️ Groceries and Dining Out – Eat Well for Less Groceries in Europe tend to be cheaper, especially for fresh produce, bread, and local specialties. Plus, the culture of shopping at local markets means you’re eating higher-quality food at a lower price. - A loaf of fresh bread in France: €1–2 ($1–2) - A bottle of decent local wine in Spain: €5 ($5.50) - Dining out? A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant in Italy: €20–30 ($22–33) — including wine! 🚂 Transportation – Ditch the Car, Take the Train

Tell us your favorite place in France! I was recently charmed in Dordogne by the village of Montignac. Best known for the Lascaux prehistoric cave drawings (which were truly awesome and reminded me how ephemeral our lives are in the grand scheme), Montignac also hosts adorable and friendly cafes and restaurants at incredibly affordable prices. On my way out of town, I grabbed un café creme, un croissant, un pain au chocolate (chocolatine), and un pain au raisin for 6€! I've paid more for a single latté in LA! Not only was it affordable, but fantastically delicious. You all know I'm a sucker for pastries. 🥐 😘 Montignac also shows off its age and history with moss-dappled stone village buildings, colorful shutters, and friendly cats who enjoy posing for photos! What's your favorite country village in Europe?

Where in Europe will you be retiring? Let’s go on that bureaucratic journey together!