The time to enjoy a European trip is about three weeks after unpacking.
To insure peace of mind ignore the rules and regulations.
It is not time for mirth and laughter the cold gray dawn of the morning...
If it were not for the presents an elopement would be preferable.
My wife and I just prefer Seattle. It's a beautiful city. Great setting. You open your front door in the morning and the air smells like pine and the sea as opposed to bus exhaust.