Time apart while married is part of the CR-1 process, it's unavoidable for most couples given US immigration law. K-1 is the only way around that, but you have decided against it most likely because of the long period of time in the US for the foreign fiance/spouse, 6-9 months unable to work or leave the country during the AOS process. For the reasons others have mentioned, spending as much time together as possible is easier if it is outside the US, so focus on those options that allow you to work or study remotely in the EU. I would also add to the good advice you've already received that short visits to be together can work very well, and they don't have to be "few." I flew to Brazil 9 times to be with my husband during our CR-1 process. And if you're already very good at long distance, it should not be a problem if you really trust each other. In our case, I found that our long-distance relationship became stronger after marriage. Yes, it was a long painful wait, but we got lucky and it was only 11 months. Good luck! PS, I love the way you ended your message, "much love." All the best and congratulations on your upcoming marriage.
bmnics reacted to carmel34 in Living together on tourist visas while waiting for CR-1?