Living in a flat will give you privacy (unlike a hostel), a kitchen, and the opportunity to explore local bars and restaurants. Some flats come with free Internet access, but don’t expect a washing machine. Many flats have a minimum stay of six or twelve months. If you’re staying in Europe long-term, this shouldn’t be an issue. Most flats in London come furnished.

London’s rental market is quite competitive nowadays. Here are some tips for renting a flat:

• Decide on a budget and stick to it (make sure to include bills)
• Start your search early (most flats are advertised one month before availability)
• Keep an open mind (don’t make your search too narrow)
• Be watchful for scams (especially online)

Give yourself plenty of time to search for the perfect flat. You’ll probably have to take a few days off work in order to visit different flats, fill out paperwork, and meet with landlords/agents. It’s a good idea to explain your criteria to a local estate agent. He or she can help you find a place with everything you’re looking for. Keep in mind that London is one of the world’s most expensive cities in which to live. It may appear cheaper to live outside the city, but transportation costs can be exorbitant. Let your agent know to which locations you will most frequently travel.

Don’t let someone talk you into a contract about which you feel unsure. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If you are asked to pay via money transfer or Western Union, it’s probably a scam. Did you know that private landlords are not regulated? Even so, there are many benefits if you choose to rent from them. For example, private landlords are usually more flexible than rental companies (this is great if you don’t know how long you will be in London).

Before you sign the contract, there are some questions you should ask your landlord/agent. First off, ask who manages the property so you know who you’ll be dealing with if problems arise. Are bills included in the rent? Ask if there is or will be a noisy building site nearby. When you view the room, ask what is included and what belongs to the current tenant. Take inventory of all fixtures in the flat and inquire about access to private gardens.

Stick to your budget and remember that you will have to pay a deposit when you sign the contract. You must also provide a bank statement showing that you have sufficient funds to cover the first few months’ rent and a letter from your employer stating your salary. Ask your agent what the total cost will be – including fees. There are three government approved Tenancy Deposit Protection Schemes; make sure your deposit is paid into one or you won’t be able to dispute issues with your deposit later.

With a Schengen Visa, you can stay in the area for more than 90 days. Countries outside the Schengen Area all have different Visa requirements. You can learn about the requirements for US travelers from the US State Department.

If your parents or grandparents are European citizens, look into the process of obtaining an EU passport. Otherwise, here are some ways to prolong your stay without obtaining a Schengen Visa:

• Visas: Working Holiday, Long-Term Tourist, or Self-Employment/Freelance
• Stay in a variety of countries
• Become a student
• Teach English

To obtain a Working Holiday Visa, you must be a citizen of New Zealand, Australia, or Canada and be between the ages of 18 and 35. Unfortunately Americans are not able to acquire this Visa. Many European countries (such as France) offer a Long-Term Tourist Visa that is usually valid for one year. You will not legally be allowed to work during your stay and you will need to prove that you have the funds to sustain yourself for one year. You might be eligible for a Freelance Visa or a Self-Employment Visa if you are self-employed. Again, each country has its own list of requirements. Berlin, Germany is the most accommodating.

One of the easiest ways to stay in Europe for more than 90 days is to simply move in and out of the Schengen Area. For example, travel to Ireland when your 90 days are up. After 90 more days, you can travel back into the area.

If you’re interested in furthering your education, consider applying to a European university. Full time students are presented with a Visa that allows them to travel anywhere in Europe. Universities often charge foreign students the same tuition as citizens (it’s cheap!). Some young people actually enroll, obtain their Visa, and travel Europe without attending class. If you’re just interested in learning a new language, you can find language classes that grant you a student Visa. These courses are full time and fairly expensive. There are many options available; some institutions allow their students to work part-time.

If you’re interested in teaching English, look into getting your TEFL certificate. Virtually every European country needs English teachers. There are also positions available as a language assistant in government-run programs. For this position, you should know the local language. Expect to make about $1,000 per month with ample time to travel.

Let’s be honest, some visitors simply don’t leave after 90 days. Penalties vary: some countries will ban you from Europe for years while other will simply give you a warning. Don’t risk it! If you “accidentally” stay in the Schengen Zone for more than 90 days, try to leave from Greece, Italy, or France. These countries are the most lenient.

What is a Medical Spa?

The term “medical spa” is a little misleading. Is it a fancy hospital or a spa for sick people? Turns out, a little bit of both. A medical spa (or “medi-spa”) combines a traditional, relaxing spa experience with techniques and procedures you’d normally find in a doctor’s office. A licensed health care professional is on-site at all times. The staff is committed to improving the overall health of their patients by use of alternative and holistic medical therapies. The use of medical spas and alternative medicine has increased drastically over the past 20 years.

Some medical spas are built around natural springs or have their own source of natural minerals. These spas offer hydrotherapy treatments, which use water for pain relief and treatment. The physical properties of water, like pressure and temperature, are used to stimulate blood circulation and treat diseases.

Popular Treatments

A thermal spring bath is great for those with circulation disorders, spinal column issues, arthritis, paralysis, metabolism disorders, osteoporosis, gynecological problems, and recovering from surgery. Europe’s hot springs contain lots salt and sulfur (a “universal remedy”). Minerals dissolve in saltwater, which eventually comes to the surface from deep underground. Thermal springs are cooled down from their natural temperature of about 160 degrees. When used for medical treatment, minerals are absorbed through the skin and deposited in certain areas of the body. As you relax into a thermal spring bath, you will find muscle and join pain relieved. You can find  a thermal spring at the Hotel Drei Quellen Therme in Germany.

If you suffer from a nervous disorder, joint disease, spinal pain, gynecological issue, arthritis, or simply want to rejuvenate your skin, consider a moor mud bath. Europeans have been using warm moor mud since the 14^th century. Also called “therapeutic peat,” moor mud is a combination of organic remains from grass, herbs, and flowers. Deposited at the bottom of a swamp, these materials did not decompose completely due to lack of oxygen. Over time, these remnants slowly become peat. The peat is exposed and removed when moorlands are drained. The peat is then cut into small pieces and combined with purified water, forming a thick paste. When the mud is heated, a combination of acids, minerals, vitamins, hormones and trace elements are released, absorbed into the skin, and deposited into certain parts of the body. You can find this treatment at the Tree of Life Spa Resort in the Czech Republic.

Other popular treatments include water cure therapy, climate therapy, fango mud, Kneipp therapy, thymus/fresh cell therpy, stanger bath therapy, aslan therapy, and cryotherpay.

Some of Europe’s best medical spas:

• Schloss Elmau Luxury Spa & Cultural Hideaway (Germany)
• Viva Mayr and F.X. Mayr & More (Austria)
• LeFay Resort & Spa (Italy)
• Grand Resort Bad Ragaz (Switzerland)

What’s so great about a riverboat?

• Luxurious
• Fine dining
• Countless amenities
• Easy access to the heart of many cities

You might want to look into budget airlines because you’ll be shelling out more than $3,000 per person for any of Europe’s luxury river cruises. Relax from your cabin, the deck, a dining area, or the pool as you watch the fairytale countryside of Europe pass you by. You’ll see famous cities, vineyards, and majestic cathedrals all without buying tickets or standing in line. This is sightseeing at it’s best! DouroAzul, Avalon Waterways, and Viking River Cruises offer many different excursions including themed and holiday trips. We’ve picked our favorites.

#3 – DouroAzul: Douro River Valley

DouroAzul is Portugal’s largest river cruise operator. They just released two new ships, the AmaVida (holds 106) and the Queen Isabel (holds 118). Wine lovers will enjoy this cruise through the heart of Portugal’s wine country. Onboard the Queen Isabel you will find a spa, fitness center, heated pool, and gourmet restaurant. The cruise is seven days, departs from Porto, Portugal, and ends in Salamanca, Spain. The Douro River Valley excursion is available between the months of April and November. Excursions ashore expose guests to the region’s finest wines. The cruise takes guests to five UNESCO (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage Sites including Porto’s Ribeira district and the Alto Douro wine region. The price includes three nights in Lisbon, Portugal prior to embarkation.

#2 – Avalon Waterways: The Legendary Danube

Avalon Waterways announced the launch of their sixth ship in May 2013: the Avalon Expression. This 166-passenger luxury ship has all the amenities you’d expect from a five-star hotel. Floor-to-ceiling windows give guests a great view from practically anywhere on the ship. Cabins include open-air balconies from which guests can watch the landscape flow by. The Legendary Danube varies slightly each year. The 2014 trip departs from Nuremberg, Germany and ends in Budapest, Hungary. The price includes three nights in Prague prior to departure during which you can explore places like the Jewish Quarter, Hradcany Castle, and Wenceslaus Square. The seven-night cruise passes through the medieval cities Regensburg, Passau, and Vienna. Guests have the opportunity to attend events in each city.

#1 – Viking River Cruises: Rhine River

Viking River Cruises is consistently at the top of the charts. A cruise on one of their new Longships is like staying in a five-star hotel (not to mention the Longships are equipped with hybrid engines and solar panels). With a disciplined Swiss staff and a team of chefs that prepare meals onboard (they even have a herb garden on the ship), all your needs will be taken care of. The Rhine River cruise is the perfect romantic getaway. The trip takes up to 190 guests through five countries. Guests glide by the magical castles of Black Forest, Germany and are treated to a fun stop in Amsterdam. Without worrying about taxis or trains, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view.

Before you pack your bags, consider the following:

• How long do you want to work in Europe?
• In which country do you want to work?
• Will you need to take language classes?
• Are you able to/do you need to acquire a work permit?
• Are you interested in teaching English?

Seasonal & Short-Term Jobs

Great for backpackers, these jobs usually don’t require a work permit and pay in cash. Farms and vineyards are always looking for short-term employees. If you want to visit Europe during the summer months, consider being a camp counselor. This is a fun, rewarding job that allows you to work with kids. As a bonus, counselors are usually provided with food and a place to stay free of charge.

If you’re young, you should definitely consider being an Au Pair – a foreign individual hired to care for children and do housework. As an Au Pair, you will have food, a safe place to stay, and money. Living with a family will completely immerse you in the local culture. You might even have the opportunity to learn a new language. European parents are always eager to hire English-speaking Au Pairs.

If you don’t like kids or farm work, look into hostels, bars, and tour companies. You will probably have access to a free room if you work in a hostel. It’s an easy way to make cash – as long as you don’t mind cleaning toilets! Bars, on the other hand, are great places to meet the locals (and snag a few free drinks). If you like speaking in front of a group, consider being a tour guide. Sandeman’s New Europe Tours, one of Europe’s most famous tour companies, operates in cities such as Amsterdam, London, and Berlin. Tour companies often require you to have a work permit. If they are unable to sponsor you for a work permit (but still want to hire you) you might be in danger of exploitation.

Long-Term Jobs

Teaching English is the most popular long-term job available to Americans. You’ll want to earn your TEFL certificate before you leave. You can teach at a private language school, work on a freelance basis, or work with an agency. For more information on teaching in Europe, click here.

If you’re looking to further an existing career, consider an internship (Europeans call them “mini-jobs”). Unfortunately, many internships are unpaid. On the plus side, most interns are sponsored. Magazines and tour companies are the best places to look for an internship. Once again, be wary of exploitation. It’s a good idea to ask other employees about their hours and paychecks. Don’t let yourself be exploited just because you’re thankful for the opportunity to work with the company!

Online is the best place to start looking for work. Check out StaTravel and WorkAway.

Thinking about the delectable dishes and fine wines of Europe might make your mouth water, but did you know that some people actually travel to Europe to lose weight? Staying at a weight loss spa is pricey, but we guarantee you’ll return home relaxed, rejuvenated, and a few pounds lighter.

Along with traditional spa services, weight loss spas also offer detox programs, exercise classes, nutritional advice, and medical procedures. Personal trainers and nutritionists are on hand for advice, personal meetings, and lectures. Some of these institutions focus on relaxation and detox while others put guests through rigorous exercise.

All of Europe’s luxury health care facilities focus on:

• Long-term lifestyle changes
• Detox
• Relaxation
• Exercise
• Nutrition
• Feeling young

What better place for a spa than Europe’s majestic landscape? Both you and your waistline will enjoy vacations to these outstanding weight loss spas:

Clinique La Prairie (CLP) in Montreux, Switzerland

Located right on Lake Geneva, CLP has gained worldwide fame due to its anti-aging technology. Using “CLP Extract” (sheep cells), the institute offers rejuvenation treatments that can be found nowhere else on the planet. These treatments are recommended for guests over 40. Results last for about two years. Just 17-minutes of “Corpotrim” produces results similar to one hour of aerobic exercise. “Corpotrim” was developed to help keep astronauts in shape without the help of gravity.

CLP isn’t a fat camp. The machine-based BeautyMed program lasts 12 days and is ideal for individuals aiming to lose just a few pounds. Each guest undergoes a daily electro session in which the muscles and skin are stimulated and lymphatic drainage increases. Guests have access to a wide variety of electro and laser therapies. A slew of professionals are available for advice and to help you form a personal exercise routine.

CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa in Anguilla, British West Indies

This intimate beachfront resort is located in the curve of Rendezvous Bay. The 10-day program is available to only 20 guests at a time. In the morning, participants enjoy a relaxing walk on the beach followed by classes such as aerobics and yoga. There are also many traditional and unique spa treatments available (like Aquatherapy) in the famous Venus Spa. Meals consist of nutritious foods made with ingredients from the resort’s hydroponic farm. In addition to fitness classes, guests will also undergo a health assessment and attend lectures about fitness and nutrition.

Visitors uninterested in spa treatments or weight loss can take advantage of the resort’s championship golf course, fine dining, and of course the beach.

Stobo Castle in Peebleshire, Scotland

Prepare to be pampered. Just 20 miles north of Edinburgh sits a gorgeous castle featuring a Japanese water garden, tennis courts, a unique Crystal Steam Room, and a hydrospa. The indoor, glass-roofed spa offers over 80 different treatments. At Stobo Castle, guests can float in mineral-rich water in the Dead Sea Flotarium. You’re sure to lose a little weight from the haggis-only diet. In case you don’t know, haggis is a pudding-type dish that contains sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs. These ingredients are minced with spices, suet, oatmeal, stock, and onion. Despite the description, haggis makes for a savory meal with a great nutty texture.

If you’re on a budget, drugstores will be more than adequate for your beauty needs. Lots of European drugstores allow you to sample their products. This is a great feature lacking in US drugstores.

Bourjois is one of Europe’s most famous cosmetic brands. With a focus on the particular glamor of 19^th century Paris, this brand can proudly claim to have created the first powder blush. If  you’re looking for a makeup remover, go for Bioderma Crealine H₂O. For a great moisturizer, try Embryolisse.

If you’re visiting Europe during the summer, you’re going to need sunscreen. La Roche-Posay Anthelios AC is recommended for oily skin and those suffering from acne. Unlike sunscreens that claim to be “oil free,” this one really is!

In France, look for Monoprix and luxury brands Galeries Lafayette and Printemps. When visiting Sephora stores (you can find these in France, Italy, and Spain), look for eye shadow and blush by Fred Farruggia. Sephora stores also carry Makeup For Ever products and drugstore brands like Maybelline and L’Oreal. Sephora often has sales on their more expensive products during the summer. Another French brand to look for is Lollipops.

If you like perfume and you’re visiting Paris, you’re in for a treat. Visit a boutique called Serge Lutens at the Palais Royale. Inside you can sample a gigantic array of perfumes.

In Italy and France, look for Kiko stores. Kiko is known for its wide selection of products, great prices, and sales. The Italian store Limoni Perfumeria has a wide selection with great packaging. Look for inexpensive brands Pupa and Collistar.

In London, look for EU-exclusive Illamasqua shades.

In Germany, look for brands Astor and P2. Both brands can be found in common drugstores. Their products are inexpensive and of good quality. P2 makes great lip products. Catrice (a little more expensive) and Essence (a little less expensive) are two more great drugstore brands found in Germany. Catrice has a reputation for wonderful nail polish. You can also find hair treatment tools, serums and creams there, wonderful for post curling or straightening treatment.

Germany is known for its focus on organic makeup and skincare. In Denmark, visit stores Matas and Magasin to find a great selection of products. If you see the name Nilens Jord, check out the mascara and eye shadow. All Nilens Jord products are free of paraben and perfume. The Danish brand GOSH is not recommended.

In the Netherlands, drugstore Kruidvat en Etos is recommended for beauty supplies. They carry aforementioned brands Catrice and Essence. They also carry MNY. Essence can also be purchase in Switzerland’s drugstores.

In the United Kingdom, visit House of Fraser. Look for brands Illamasque, Butter London, Sleek, 17, Models Own, and Barry M. International travelers often say that in regards to makeup, the UK is similar to the US.

In Spain, look for Agatha Ruiz de la Prada perfume and try out some skincare products from Instituto Español de la Piel.

While it is true that everyone looks to live many years, the actual process of aging is dreaded around the world. But old age is not the only dreaded stage in life, puberty with all its awkward changes as acne and skin spots can be just as devastating while middle age has more than a fair share of troubles which manifest themselves in wrinkles and fine lines. And with appearance coming at such a premium these days, we are every day confronted by promotions touting all sorts of magical remedies for skin defects on mainstream media as well as online. After trying dozens of them with little to show for it, many people have given up altogether in their bid to reverse signs of aging and skin damage. However, there is a product that calls for more than just a second glance: the Derma Roller.

Derma What?

The derma roller (or microneedle) is an innovative skin care device designed to stimulate the production of collagen underneath the skin which rejuvenates the skin resulting a smooth, youthful appearance. The small , handheld devices are not so impressive when you look at them first. Indeed, the fact that they have a roller on which there are dozens of tiny microneedles can be intimidating especially for those who are queasy. Treating your skin with a microneedle is easy. All you need is to roll its microneedles over your face, tummy, thighs or other affected areas of the skin for about 10 minutes, all the while ensuring that you repeat the motion for about a dozen times over particular problem areas.

It is recommended that microneedling (the process of rolling the device on the skin) is carried out at night or when one is not required to appear in public. This is because often microneedling leads to puffiness or redness of the skin. Some users in fact experience mild bleeding. However, all these symptoms are temporary and will disappear within 6 to 10 hours.

Using the Derma Roller to Remove Acne Scars

One of the more popular applications of the microneedle is in eliminating scars left on the skin as a result of cystic acne. Even where other remedies have proved ineffective in getting rid of the redness and the and the unsightly scars resulting from an acute case of cystic acne, microneedling proves effective all the same. To begin with, the rolling stimulates the skin to produce collagen which then aids in the healing process and gradually the spots, scars and skin discoloration are no longer evident.

As is the case with other cosmic solutions for skin defects, patience is of essence when using the derma roller. However, some improvements on the skin such as a reduction in discoloration can be noted within days of beginning microneedling. There are no universal standards as it all depends on how acute the case of acne scarring is as well as the brand of microneedle used.

Microneedling and Stretch Mark Removal

While the effectiveness of derma rolling in the removal of acne scars has been well documented, not so much is known about the device’s effectiveness in getting rid of stretch marks. This is something of a mystery since so many women(and a significant number of men too) have to grapple with the problem of these unsightly body marks. As it is impossible to always keep the stretch marks hidden away under clothing all the time, their presence can cause a loss of self esteem for both men and women. However, with the rise of skin needling, this predicament needs not be a cause for concern anymore.

However, before anyone resorts to the use of rollers to treat stretch marks, there are few factors one needs to consider. To begin with, just about every user posting reviews on the effectiveness of the roller on stretch marks the device is good in making the stretched skin lighter but cannot remove the scarring entirely. As such, the remedy is only satisfactory for individuals with light skin. It is also worth considering that compared to fine lines and acne scarring, stretch marks take more time to develop and show on the skin.

Derma Rolling and Hair Regrowth

While it is true that fine lines and scarring are the aging issues which cause the most concern in women, for men it is hair loss that is more dreaded. Considering that the same principle of cell regeneration applies to healing scarred skin as in growth of hair, derma rolling has been tried and found marginally effective in treating premature hair loss. The efficacy of microneedling stems from the principle that it encourages the body to produce collagen which is crucial in the process in which the body grows hair. One needs to note that derma rolling on its own may not prove much of a solution though. For the best results, it makes sense to apply the process needs to be combined with application of a proven hair growth serum as a topical application. The microneedling helps the active ingredients in the topical application to penetrate deep and encourage growth of hair from the follicles.

Scientia Derma Roller

This specially designed microneedle is manufacture in the UK. It is effective for all the skin treatment solutions for which microneedles are famous for including:

• Acne induced scars

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Stretch marks

• Cellulite

• Hair loss

• Hyper-pigmentation

First time users of this roller invariably report improved results compared to other treatment options they tried in the past. A good number of these users report considerable changes after just a single microneedling treatment. For others, it may take a couple of treatments before they observe any changes. Moreover, users have remarked on the effectiveness of the roller across all categories of skin problems. The most popular of the Scentia range is the one with the 192 1mm microneedles. The roller is safe enough to use even up to five times a week. For the best results, the manufacturers recommend the roller be used alongside certified anti-aging creams and facial serums.

According to  a select number of user reviews, applying more force than is called for can cause skin damage. However, for consistent users, any swelling or bleeding was minimal and disappeared within a matter of hours. Indeed, after careful scrutiny it is obvious that any worrying side effects did not result from poor design or ineffectiveness of the roller but rather as a result of poor usage by the consumers themselves.

The Verdict

Derma rollers represent an innovative approach to the treatment of skin defects. Despite their novelty, they have come to be widely accepted due to their effectiveness and convenience of use. Part of that popularity has also ridden on the fame garnered when these devices were featured on such TV programs as the Rachael Ray Show. While the wide range of applicability of microneedles is without question, people who bleed easily may need to forego their use. the same applies to those who have a low pain-tolerance threshold.

However, if a little pain is not a big deal, then the use of derma rollers is a highly recommended skin defect remedy. It is a solution which is certain to deliver marked results for problems like acne-induced scarring, fine lines and hyper-pigmentation. For the best results, users are advised to microneedle regularly and also apply topical anti-aging creams and serums. If you still need further information on how to find the best dermarollers, Aquilah.com’s review of dermarollers is a resource you might want to check out.

A business degree will:

• Teach you skills useful for any career
• Improve your teamwork, time management, problem-solving, and leadership skills
• Give you opportunities to travel
• Prepare you for life
• Help you structure your personal finances

Whether you want to go for a basic accounting degree or pursue an MBA, earning a business degree is never a bad idea.

Earning a degree is a different experience in Europe than in the US. Whereas US applicants are pressured to show uniqueness, European applicants are asked to show why they are interested in a particular subject. Along with standardized test scores, European schools look at leadership skills and motivation. If you mention an extracurricular activity, it better be related to your intended field of study.

European schools are focused on education – there are no mascots, school colors, or football teams. This “no frills” approach to learning enables universities to be cheap (sometimes free!). While American professors are easily approachable and viewed as mentors, European professors lecture in great halls while standing on a raised platform. Which school you attend should depend on your personal goals.

Here are the top three business schools in Europe:

#3: Saïd Business School (Oxford, UK)

Here’s a fun fact: just three months after they graduate, the average alumni is earning six figures (maybe these are people staying in Europe’s luxury golf resorts later in life)! Oxford’s prestigious business school is known for producing programmers. The school is divided into three sections: Business, Finance, and Management. Graduate students can earn their MBA in one year at SBS. In 2006, SBS launched a series of programs in which students can earn one of three diplomas in just 18 months. In 2013, SBS’s MBA program was ranked 24th in the world, 3rd in the UK, 6th in “The Best International MBA Programs” (Forbes), and 5th in “International Business Schools” (Business Week).

#2: London Business School (London, UK)

LBS is the UK’s top business school. It is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 business schools in the world. A competitive school, LBS offers many different business degrees including MBAs and PhDs. Sloan Masters in Leadership and Strategy is perhaps the school’s most famous degree. It is a master’s program developed for senior executives and professionals. Most Sloan Fellows have 15 years of experience under their belts before they start the program. The degree is full time and takes one year to complete. LBS also has a campus located in Dubai.

#1: INSEAD (Paris, France)

It’s not easy to get into INSEAD. Students must score 702 or higher on the GMAT (one point higher than the score required to get into LBS). This global graduate school is famous for its MBA program. It also offers a Master of Finance, a PhD in Management, and many other executive programs. Because INSEAD has campuses in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, students have the unique opportunity to study in three different continents. Alumni have endless opportunities because INSEAD shares career services with Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, and Kellogg School of Management in the US.

Golf was banned several times throughout the 1400’s, but finally spread from Europe to the United States in the 18^th century. It was firmly established in Europe by the end of the 19^th century. In 1880 there were only 12 courses in England; by 1914 that number had risen to 1,000. Golf became incredibly popular in the US during the 1920’s. When an American won the British Open Championship in 1992, the US claimed dominance over the sport – a status they still hold today.

The history of golf is preserved worldwide in these famous museums:

• British Golf Museum (Fife, Scotland)
• US Golf Association Museum (New Jersey, US)
• World Golf Hall of Fame (Florida, US)
• Canadian Golf Hall of Fame (Ontario, Canada)

Today, Europe has become a destination for wealthy golfers. The rolling hills and mild climate are perfect for the sport. Luxury golf resorts aren’t just about golf; they focus on attitude, prestige, exclusivity, and landscape. Most important, they place guests in the very lap of luxury. Here are two of Europe’s best luxury golf resorts:

Verdura Golf & Spa Resort, Sicily

On Sicily’s south coast you’ll find a resort boasting discreet exclusivity (there are only 203 rooms). The grounds contain a private beach and every room has a view of the ocean with a private terrace. The resort’s two golf courses were designed by Kyle Phillips, a leading golf architect. When playing The East Course, golfers will travel along a meandering route that brings them to the sea twice. The 18th hole is located alongside the cliffs and the end of the course brings you to an elevated, tumbling landscape. The West Course is less diverse but touches the Mediterranean in the middle and is capped with a magnificent seaside finale. Both The East Course and The West Course make ingenious use of the natural terrain and make for a fulfilling experience.

Vidago Palace, Portugal

A long ago destination for those seeking Vidago’s legendary mineral waters, Vidago Palace is a resort fit for kings. With Belle Epoque charm, the resort combines the grandeur of a palace with the coziness of a cottage. There are only 70 rooms in the palace. The resort is nestled in the mountains and surrounded by woodlands. The lush atmosphere, mineral water, and tranquil setting make for a magical, restorative vacation.

Vidago Palace’s championship golf course was built in 1936 (a Mackenzie Ross original). Redesigned by Cameron and Powell according to USGA specifications, the course will remind you of the sport’s inherent beauty and is an exhilarating challenge even for experienced golfers. Great contrasts in landscape evoke a respect for the palace’s natural surroundings. The course is located in Centennial Park, presenting players with magnificent views of rolling hills and small villages. The middle of the course dips into the historic Oura Valley. The course also includes a driving range, chipping area, two putting greens, and a golf school.