Can't Make It to Europe This Summer? Here's How to Bring a European Picnic Home Instead

Cycle in style with a destination in mind: a picnic in the European countryside. Photo courtesy of My Dutch Bike.

By Jeralyn Gerba for Fathom | Pretend you're on a European vacation. Get into the bike lane and ride like the wind.

1. Tour de fill-in-the-blank.

There's no better way to get around winding canals and cobblestone streets than on the Cadillac of two-wheeled cruisers: a top-quality, sit-up-straight Dutch bicycle. A handmade leather bicycle wine rack snaps to the frame, waiting for a ride to the next dinner party. Affix roll-up panniers to the rear tire as a classy carryall solution on long jaunts.

2. Host a proper picnic.

Spread a vintage tartan blanket on a grassy knoll. Have a tasting tour on a cheese board: a French triple-crème, tallegio from Northern Italy, goat cheese from England, and Scotch biscuits, French waffles, and a crusty baguette. Italian glass storage containers keep crudité in place. A perforated cotton napkin roll make for easy packing. Disposable bamboo utensils are lighter than silverware and feel better than plastic.

3. Keep it on your person.

Keep your balance by traveling light. Track time with a minimalist Danish watch. Mop a brow with a Marimekko handkerchief. Pedal around in clogs.

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Jeralyn is Fathom's co-founder and editorial director and NYC's biggest fan. You can follow her at @jgerba on Twitter , Instagram , and Pinterest . She travels for the ancient ruins and the future relics.