What is the European Union?

The European Union is confusing to some people.  It was to me, so I decided to do a little research on the subject.

It’s not a federal government like the United States, nor is it a continent.  It is often described as ‘a family of democratic European countries, committed to working together for peace and prosperity”.

Although it is relatively new, most people don’t realize how long it’s been in the works.  It was first proposed by French foreign minister Robert Schuman way back in 1950 and originally it consisted of six countries: Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.

Today, there are 25 EU member states. 

SwedenHungary
FinlandAustria
EstoniaSlovenia
LatviaItaly
LithuaniaFrance
PolandSpain
DenmarkPortugal
United KingdomBelgium
IrelandLuxembourg
NetherlandsGreece
GermanyCyprus
Czech RepublicMalta
Slovenia 

Not all of them opted to use the Euro, Sweden, Denmark and Great Britain still use their own currencies.  In total, 12 states and territories use the Euro.

There are an amazing 20 official languages across the 25 states!

Romania and Bulgaria are slated for 2007 admission. 

So take your family to this ‘family of democratic European countries’ and go on a Virgin Vacation today!

Posted by on 11/21 at 11:57 AM

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