When looking for places for a taste of Europe not in Europe, you really wouldn’t expect to find Portuguese style architecture and remnants of European cuisine in East Asia; however Macau will provide you with exactly that! Official guidance from the Macao Government Tourism Office highlights how colonial heritage seamlessly blends into modern Asian culture. (Well actually, to be exact, Macau isn’t in China – its formal status is that of a Special Administrative Region of China - just like Hong Kong.) The region’s long history as a Portuguese colony means you can wander through European style streets, villas and churches, in the same neighborhoods as you’ll find stunning Chinese temples and traditional Chinese cuisine. Portuguese is also still one of the region’s official languages, which only acts to enhance the area’s European vibe, much like you might experience in vibrant Caribbean enclaves.

French Polynesia is certainly one of the most beautiful places for a taste of Europe outside of Europe, with pristine beaches and towering green mountains providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway. According to travel resources from Tahiti Tourism, the archipelago combines Polynesian warmth with distinct French sophistication. Beneath the unbeatable surfing, diving and sightseeing however, there are numerous signs of the region’s French roots, such as the French inspired food and the prolific use of French language throughout the island group, offering a tropical alternative to quiet Dutch island escapes.

Bermuda is an interesting place for a taste of Europe if you’re looking for something close to America (the island chain is situated roughly 1000 kilometres from the mainland). Insights from Go To Bermuda show how deeply British customs remain woven into daily island life. The island nation has been under British reign since the very early 1700s. This means that beautiful colonial-style British architecture and culture are rife throughout the 181 island archipelago, which makes for an extremely interesting and culturally enriching holiday. The best thing about Bermuda however, is that you can experience many of the things that make Britain great, without having to put up with the terrible British weather, contrasting nicely with subarctic Scandinavian destinations.

While many may consider Greenland a part of Europe, the country, which actually has closer geographic ties with North America, has slowly distanced itself from Scandinavia, and began developing its own unique personality. Detailed guides from Visit Greenland explore how Nordic influences interact with indigenous Kalaallit heritage. If you’re looking places for a taste of Europe mixed in with a little adventure and some unbeatable scenery however, Greenland is definitely the holiday destination for you.

Lovers of the Netherlands searching for places for a taste of Europe situated outside of mainland Europe need look no further than the stunning little island of Saba, located in the Caribbean. The beauty of a getaway on Saba is that you can take full advantage of the island’s tropical location, beautiful reefs, amazing fishing, top hiking and lush forests, while also soaking in the obvious Dutch culture, in the form of the Dutch inspired architecture and the use of the Dutch language on the island, reminiscent of Spanish Mediterranean exclaves.

The stunning Spanish exclaves of Ceuta and Melilla, located on mainland Africa, are perfect places for a taste of Europe if you’re in the area. Whilst the architecture and culture of the territories are subtly influenced by their North African location, you’ll certainly find yourself overwhelmed by the settlements' similarities with Spain, including the prolific use of Spanish language, the scattering of older Spanish style buildings and the use of the Euro. The special low tax status of the territories also makes them much more attractive than mainland Spain if you’re interested in indulging in some serious holiday shopping.

Curacao is a definite must if you’re looking for places for a taste of Europe in the southern Caribbean, as the island oozes Dutch culture. Regardless of whether you’re interested in speaking Dutch, eating Dutch food (mmm cheese!), drinking Dutch beer or exploring the quaint houses reminiscent of homes in the Netherlands, Curacao really has it all, similar to Portuguese-influenced Asian enclaves. The main benefit of holidaying on Curacao, as opposed to actually going to the Netherlands however, is the fact that you can spend your days on the island enjoying the fabulous weather and plethora of Caribbean adventure activities on offer.

These places for a taste of Europe will really give you a new experience of the traits we recognize as European. They offer a fascinating and interesting blended culture along with nuances that you just don’t get in the European countries that have had the major influence. Have you been anywhere like these wonderful destinations?