Carefree in Europe

I believe to really know the people, I must mingle with them. If there are tourists around, the towns people are accustomed to certain questions and answers. If I go into areas where the tourists do not frequent, then I have a better chance to meet the Europeans I have been hoping to meet. This takes stepping out of the norm. Having a vehicle rather than travel the trains, busses, tour transportation would give us more opportunity to see the Europe I hope to fall in love with. I feel that this is a more carefree lifestyle and people would be more comfortable with getting to know us. Pat C