Eastern Europe is one big winner in this significant travel reshuffle. Countries like Romania, Bulgaria, and several Balkan nations are having a moment in the spotlight, and for good reason, thanks to several factors that have made this once-underserved region of Europe more appealing.

The decision was expected given changes in Washington's priorities, but roughly 1,000 U.S. troops will continue to be stationed in Romania, the country's defense ministry said.

Europe has fallen behind peers in clinical trial activity, though its central and eastern regions offer shoots of recovery.

Five-hundred shoeboxes have been filled with Christmas presents for children in Eastern European countries. Volunteers at St Mary's Church, in Brixham, Devon, have packed and checked boxes filled with toys, toiletries, clothing and other presents.