On every adventure we have learned something new. These are a few of the must-know tips we've come across.
- Grab a map of the area with a transportation map as well. Public transportation buildings, info centers, hotels and tourist shops all have them available. You can always dip into a nearby hotel for a free tourist brochure or city map.
- In a city, keep your belongings closely guarded. Carry your purse in tight hand or wear a cross body handbag in the front of your body. Keep an eye out for your backpack(s) as well and do not place any important items or documents in the front easy access pockets! Keep pickpockets and purse grabbers in mind at all times. Men, place your wallet in your front pocket or wear a money belt underneath your pants. Waist belts, money belts, leg belts and neck wallets are all available for your belongings. Remember to wear them underneath your clothing, not above!
- Driving in Europe? Remember to bring along your International driver's license, passports and any other important id verification. Be prepared.
- Dining near a tourist attraction is not recommended. Any travel pro will agree. The prices will be much higher with low quality food. Many of these restaurants will have menus outside in at least five different languages. Waiters will flag you down and attempt to convince you to sit down. They're banking on the fact that you won't be returning.
- European restaurants have the menu on the outside of the building near the door. Take your time to check and do not feel rushed, pressured or un-comfortable while reading.
- In Europe, menu specials of the day are purchased fresh that morning for the day. Quite opposite from our US version of using up almost spoiled items...
- To save on the food budget substantially, stop at a nearby grocery store or market. Sandwich supplies, meats, cheeses, snack items and fresh fruit are the easiest to work with. Everything will seem so different with packaging and language but it's all the same and much higher quality. Be adventurous and try new things!
- Local delicacies, cheeses, candies, chocolates and more can be picked up at much lower costs than at the tourist shops. We love picking up the local beer and wines. Food and drinks are our favorite souvenirs from a trip.
- Carry along snacks and drinks to avoid high costs while out and about. Most of our budget goes to food during our stay. From snacks, treats, drinks and restaurant meals, it really adds up fast!
- Most cities have quick outdoor "imbiss" shops or carts. The food is fast and good quality if you don't want to stop at a restaurant. Turkish Doner Kebab shops cover Europe along with many other quality fast food stops.
- With the current World situation, try to blend in as much as possible. I'll say, us Americans really stick out, and after living in Europe for a few years, we can spot one a mile away. With that said, please don't wear US printed or labeled clothing while on tour. Honestly, it's practically a bullseye mark and frequent safety briefings restate this fact. Name brands are sold World wide and are relatively safe to wear.
- Photography is my favorite souvenir on vacation. Come prepared with extra SD cards, batteries and battery charger. I always carry 3-5 extra batteries along with two large capacity SD cards for just in case. Even an extra camera is a live saver! I have had the misfortune of breaking one while on a trip without a backup. I cried all night, seriously!
- The WC! Public bathrooms aren't always easy to find depending on where you're visiting. You can always stop into a cafe or restaurant and ask to use theirs. Sometimes a drink purchase is expected for use. Fast food franchises are great places to pop into for a free pit stop. Bring along tissues, tp is in high demand & rarely stocked! Hand sanitizer as well on that subject. I usually use my kids as an excuse, who can deny a wee one? ;) Always carry spare change for the public bathrooms. Many have attendants, require a payment of ,20 cents to one Euro and are usually clean. Desperate? Walk into a hotel as if you were a guest who knows where they're going. Nod to the doorman as you enter. Or walk confidently into a restaurant, usually the bathrooms are in the back and smile at the servers or bartender.
- Comfortable clothing and shoes are a must while touring. There's a lot of ground to cover in Europe and cobblestone streets kill the feet and back.
- Don't expect every location to accept credit cards. Try to keep enough cash on you for a day. ATM's are abundant but with high withdrawal fees. Your banking company can also charge an exchange fee. Make sure you're aware of your charges. Scammers are popular in many tourist destinations. Card readers are used often to gather your info and swipe identity. We've had many friends experience this first hand! If anything, try to avoid a popular ATM within a touristic area.
- For USAA banking members: The World card is a great option with reward points on every purchase and an extremely low International exchange fee.
- Check with your cellular company for overseas charges. Some plans charge a different rate per country and can be quite pricey. We only carry pay-as-you-go Vodafones on vacation with free inbound calls for the people who need to get a hold of us. Each country will have a different minute cost which you will be notified about once you cross the border.
- Winter & cold weather: Little hand and toe warmers are our family's life saver while visiting the Christmas markets. Once exposed to air, the small pouch becomes very warm and stays that way for up to six hours! Keep them in your pockets to re-heat your hands when needed or in mittens. Thermals are a must and I'm a huge fan of Under Armour. Wool socks seriously keep your toesies uber warm while out and about. For us overseas folks: Backcountry.com is an excellent APO shipper with fantastic service.
These are just a few. If you have anything to add, please comment.
Thanks =)
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