Europe’s peaceful summer escapes

When you take your summer holiday, isn’t the point to see new places, meet new people, and learn about a different way of life? And oh yes, rest and recharge, thanks to melting stress levels? Exploring  Europe’s quietest corners is just the ticket. Take time to delve into the “secondary” cities that offer peace and calm that the largest cities can’t pull off. Look beyond the most famous sites — definitely exciting and certainly crowded — to find treasures that locals know about and most travelers overlook. You’ll wind down at the same time that you enrich your understanding of Europe, by going really local, very slowly, and having all the time in the world to stop and smell the roses. And the baking bread. And hear the local church choir. And chat with the cheese seller. Who invites you to meet her husband the winemaker. After a morning hike, a leisurely lunch, and an afternoon nap. Get the idea? Take your time on your next trip to Europe.