It has been several years since my last trip to Europe, yet I frequently receive inquiries about the captivating charm of traveling there. In my exploration of travel tips, I'm excited to share my insights with you.
It seems that many people are eager to travel to Europe lately, and who can blame them? The pursuit of “authenticity” in experiential travel remains strong, with culinary adventures being a key theme. Travelers are broadening their horizons, showing heightened interest in European beach islands like Mallorca, Ibiza, Crete, Tenerife, and the Azores, along with city and coastal itineraries gaining popularity.
Before you pack your bags, take some time to prepare. Here are some travel hacks she swears by before embarking on her overseas adventures.
Check the Time
Be aware of significant religious and bank holidays, as certain places may be closed at specific times or even entirely!” If you have your heart set on visiting a particular attraction, make sure to check their regular operating hours and any annual closures.
For instance, the northern lights are invisible during the summer in Iceland, and major French cities often slowdown in August as locals head to the beach.
Set a Flexible Pace
With Europe’s close proximity and accessible public transportation, including high-speed trains, traveling between countries is easy!
Consider day trips. Day trips can be convenient if you want a break from your main destination. This also means less packing and logistical hassle
Train to Travel
When exploring abroad, the excitement of new experiences can make the miles fly by. You may not notice the number of steps you’re taking, or the physical challenges posed by uneven terrain, like cobblestones, until it’s too late – and something starts to ache!
Begin walking regularly before your trip to acclimate your body and hips to a full day of walking. This preparation will help build your endurance and strength for sightseeing.
Get the Apps
Smartphones are essential travel companions for numerous reasons, and having the right apps can be a game-changer.
Use the Timeshifter app to combat jet lag
Download Google Maps for your destination in case you lose service or go underground.
Research public transportation and rideshare options ahead of time, as they can vary widely.
The TSA and Mobile Passport apps offer valuable information to streamline your travel. To ensure your belongings stay with you, keep your Tile, Airtag, or other tracking apps active on your phone.
Packing Right
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of fitting everything perfectly into your luggage as you prepare to leave. Leave extra room in your luggage for souvenirs or bring a compact duffel bag. This way, you can easily adjust your belongings to accommodate local treats like cheese, wine, handbags, and unique finds.
Tips on Tipping
While tipping is customary in the U.S., the opposite can be true in many European countries and parts of Asia. In fact, offering a gratuity might be considered rude in some places, such as Switzerland.
Most restaurants expect you to round up on your bill; servers typically won’t return with change if it’s only a few cents. Some places include a service charge in the bill, while others do not, so review your bill carefully to know what’s appropriate.
Save Money in-Destination
With the Euro's value closely matching the U.S. dollar, traveling in Europe is more affordable (especially since tipping may not be necessary!) To cut costs, book hotels that offer breakfast plans where possible.
Additionally, hotel chains like Hyatt often have club levels that provide all-day snacks and beverages, offering another way to save.
Finally, when heading out for the evening, certain countries have delightful aperitif hours. These are akin to happy hours in the U.S., but with the added bonus of complimentary snacks, making them a fantastic way to enjoy a social evening in Europe.
Let's talk about your ideas on travel to Europe. And if you need help planning your adventure, complete our planning form to get started.
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