<b>Croatia</b> is a fast-growing European travel destination, as Americans are becoming turned on to a destination that Europeans have visited for decades. It has some of the most popular beaches in Europe, with the numerous islands offshore considered to offer the best beaches. Croatia is also well-known for its history and geographic beauty. Croatia also offers to the tourist opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and mountain climbing at their many national parks such as Plitvice Lakes. Croatia also offers tourists the opportunity to learn about its history by visiting its many walled cities (such as Dubrovnik, Trogir, and Korcula), Roman-era buildings (of which Diocletian`s Palace is perhaps the best-known), and religious buildings such as Zagreb Cathedral in the country`s exquisite capital.

<b>Bulgaria</b> is known for its rich history, which stretches back over 6,000 years and is on display everywhere you look, ranging from sacred religious buildings with beautiful architectural styles and colorful art to the hundreds of fortresses and historic ruins, from which some famous legends and myths were born. Bulgaria is one of the most popular beach destinations in Europe, with hundreds of miles of glittering coastline. It`s also known for its winter sporting opportunities in some of the most glamorous and affordable ski resorts east of Switzerland.

The <b>Czech Republic</b> is perhaps best-known for its beautiful capital, Prague, although it is known for much more, such as its numerous castles and châteaux (over 1,200 of them!). It is also well-known for having some of the most delicious food and drink in Europe, in particular its wines and famed Pilsner-style beer. The Czech Republic has and had a very long Jewish tradition, which is triumphantly on display after the horrors and loss of World War II in such places as the Great Synagogue in Plzen, the third-largest in the world. Finally, the Czech Republic is well-known for its museums, educating visitors on everything from history and art to folk arts and crafts and even life in the former Communist Czechoslovakia.

Perhaps the first thing you think of when you think of <b>Hungary</b> is its delicious cuisine; after all, it is the country that gave us goulash and fisherman`s soup. It is also known the world over for its 1,000-year historical tradition which bred strong folk traditions. Hungary is also known for its spring and summer festivals, its thermal spas, stunning and varied architectural styles befitting `the crossroads of Europe`, and some of the most gorgeous scenery you will find on the continent. Be sure to visit the charming capital of Budapest, split by the Danube, and then travel further afield to Transdanubia and the Great Hungarian Plain.

<b>Poland</b> is a country that offers so many fun experiences for the traveler, from the cities to the countryside. Warsaw and Krakow are crossroad cities, where history and innovative progress coexist beautifully side-by-side, showcasing the nation`s past and future. The Tatra Mountains in the south are a picture-perfect wonderland in the wintertime, and is a popular ski resort area. The Baltic coastline of Pomerania offers respite to crowds in the summer wishing to escape the cities. Historic sites such as castles, palaces, and cathedrals can be found in all corners of Poland -- you really cannot go wrong no matter where you go.

<b>Romania</b> is well-known for its rich history, dating back before the time of the Greeks and Romans. Ruins from days gone by, ranging from Roman structures in Alba Iulia to remnants of Communism in Bucharest, are vivid illustrations of life in Romania through the years. Whether the museums are open-air or in exhibition halls, these are fun ways to learn more about Romanian history and folk culture.

<b>Serbia</b> is a fascinating country with a turbulent history. Its visitors will be surprised by the wide variety of architectural styles ranging from Romanesque to Gothic, from Renaissance to baroque. There are many great monuments including fortresses, ancient churches, Byzantine-style basilicas, and Roman amphitheaters waiting to be discovered by visitors. Tourism in Serbia is mostly focused on the villages and mountains of the country. The most famous mountain resorts are Zlatibor, Kopaonik, and Tara. There are also many spas in Serbia, one the biggest of which is Vrnjaeka Banja. The largest cities like Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Nis, but also in the rural parts of Serbia like the volcanic wonder of Davolja varos, Christian pilgrimage across the country, and the cruises along the Danube, Sava, or Tisza attract many tourists.

<b>Slovakia</b> is well-known for its impressive collection of historic castles. For such a small country, Slovakia has over 100 of them, many of which are situated along the Danube River. Slovakia is known for its opportunities for hiking and rock-climbing in the Tatra Mountains, located in Slovakia`s east. While in the Tatras, Slovakia`s remotest corner, take some time to tour the traditional Slovakian villages, where time has stood still for generations and Slovak culture is lovingly preserved. Then head south to Tokaj wine country, one of six wine regions in the country, and enjoy some farm-to-table cuisine with your vintages.

For such a small nation, <b>Slovenia</b>, at the crossroads of Central and Eastern Europe, offers so many distinct vacation opportunities. People who want a city getaway will fall in love with Ljubljana, the capital and largest city. Winter sports enthusiasts will be right at home on the ski slopes near Lake Bled and nearby Lake Bohinj. A countryside getaway wouldn't be complete without a tour of Styria and the culturally significant Lasko Valley. Finally, a summer getaway is easily within reach if you sun yourself on the beaches of the Slovenian Riviera in towns such as Koper, Piran, and Portoroz.