Provides useful tips for newcomers, as well as travel and entertainment information for U.S. military members stationed in Europe.

A message from the Editor

Dear Readers:

When my husband received orders to Germany, courtesy of the USAF, for me it was like a dream come true. I had traveled during and after college and fallen in love with the European way of life. I found the people, culture and customs exciting and exotic. Of course, a lot of that time was spent on a shoestring budget, carrying a backpack and sleeping in hostels. This time around, I was packing my entire life and wardrobe to embark upon three years of European living. It was thrilling, yet there also loomed a lot of unanswered questions. What would I do for work? Where would we live? How about the language barrier? An overseas assignment is what you make of it. And there are classes, support networks, and friendly faces ready to help with your transition.

Living overseas opens many possibilities, some obvious and others hidden at first. It is a chance to explore foreign countries, test your tongue with new languages, shop like a local, develop international friendships and grow as a person and family.

The Welcome to Europe magazine is a resource providing you with the knowledge and inspiration to get out there and experience the best Europe has to offer. This issue features European Travel Tips; let us know if you have any to add. Learn what AFN Europe has to offer and give your feedback. Stay healthy overseas at one of the five Army Wellness Centers. Live like a local and learn about quirky customs. Get the scoop on events, opera and club listings. This is just a taste of what Welcome to Europe has to offer. Hopefully, it will answer some of your questions and help make your stay in Europe a fulfilling experience.

Wishing you a memorable assignment overseas,

Heather Ann Cosimo

Stars and Stripes Special Sections Writer