European Travel Tips & Practical Advice

Here are some recommendations and tips to help travelers to Europe prepare their trips & enjoy them safely.

Ø  Currency:  Euros are used in most every country except the United Kingdom.  We generally get some Euros before leaving home, but we also use ATMs in Europe (where the exchange rate is better).  American Express cards are not as widely accepted as they are in the U.S., but Visa and MasterCard are accepted almost everywhere.  Be sure to have a four digit PIN number. Many ATMs in Europe, as well as subway token dispensers, require a credit/debit card with an embedded chip.  Unfortunately, this type of card is uncommon in the States.  The only card issued in our area that includes a chip is from the State Employees Credit Union.

Ø  Notify your credit card company that you will be in Europe. 

Ø  Make copies of your passports and credit cards. Leave one copy with family or friends.

Ø  Pickpockets are common throughout Europe, especially in tourist areas.  Do not keep a wallet in your back pocket; wear a secure money holder. 

Ø  Toilets: In Europe the bathrooms (or WCs aka water closets) can be a challenge. Always have a few coins of local currency with you, as you may be charged for the privilege of using the WC.  Of course, my favorite option is to locate a cafe, pub, trattoria, or bistro and stop for a glass of local wine, beer, or caffe & then there is no charge for the WC!  You may find a toilet seat or you may find a trough type toilet that you are supposed to squat over. If you are lucky you will find toilet paper, but often as not, you must provide your own. I always carry a small pouch of Kleenex with me for this purpose. Once you complete your business, it can be a challenge figuring out how to flush the toilet. You may have to push, pull or wiggle any type of handle you can find within arm’s (or leg’s) reach.

Ø  Check with your insurance company to make sure your medical insurance covers out of country expenses.

Ø  Internet service:  Internet cafes are inexpensive & easy to locate.  Wi-Fi is generally available at McDonald’s restaurants worldwide.

Ø  Cell phone:  if you plan to use one, check with your provider regarding international calls.   We purchased an international cell phone online from Mobal. The cost of an international phone is as low a $29 and there are no further fees or charges unless you make or receive calls.  Note that this phone will not work within the U.S. and calling rates are reasonable. 

Ø  Clothing:  Comfortable shoes are a must.  You could walk a lot and there are many cobblestone streets throughout Europe.  In cathedrals, knees & shoulders should be covered; open-toe shoes and sandals are fine.  I pack a shawl in my backpack. 

Ø  Baggage Allowance:  Check with your airline; most airlines allow each passenger to check one bag of up to 50 pounds each and one carry-on. 

Ø  Packing:  What to wear for the overseas flight?  Be comfortable as what you wear will also be your jammies for the night!  Wear layers so that when you arrive at your destination you can be comfy there too!  (Your hotel room may not be ready).  Wear shoes that are easy to remove when going through airport security.  I generally take a large purse and a rolling carry-on.  Be sure to pack your medications, jewelry, airline tickets, passports, camera & accessories, laptop, Ipad, and other valuables in your purse or carry-on.  Take a book to read and eyeglasses; don’t forget your sunglasses!    Mark your checked luggage well with colored tape, ribbon, etc. so that you can easily identify it & be sure that your name & address information is on the bag. Don’t take good jewelry; it’s fun to purchase locally made jewelry as souvenirs.

Remember “The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.”
St. Augustine