Travel Hacks For A Smooth Continental Expedition

Traveling by plane to Europe for the first time might have its advantages and disadvantages. Even though you will always cherish the once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as riding a gondola through Venice`s canals or viewing the Eiffel Tower at night, if you are ill-prepared, these wonderful memories may be marred by rookie errors. With the greatest travel advice for Europe, we`ve outlined exactly what not to do when traveling abroad to prevent all of that from happening. You may reduce the stress of flying and save time and money by knowing these beginner blunders before you leave.

1. USING A TAXI

Not even from the airport, sorry. Please take advantage of the public transit as soon as you arrive in most major European cities, as it is usually dependable. For instance, the train is the quickest route to the city center in Amsterdam and Paris. Another practical and surprisingly quick option is shuttle buses, like Barcelona`s Aerobús, which will take you into the city in less than forty minutes. You`ll not only get a better sense of the neighborhood, but you`ll also save money by avoiding expensive taxi charges. Additionally, if you have the opportunity to stroll and can do so, take advantage of the chance to explore the old streets.

2. PURCHASING TICKETS LATELY

It`s a poor idea to wait to purchase tickets for a museum or other popular destination while you`re there. Last-minute scrambling, particularly in Paris or Rome, will likely result in extremely long lines or, worse, the arena filling up, and you might not be allowed entry at all. Make sure you reserve your tickets for everything you want to see. Multi-day sightseeing passes in big cities might be an excellent option to book tickets in advance for the main sites. There is a daily cap on the number of visitors that can access the most popular tourist destinations, such as Barcelona`s Sagrada Familia, so you can get your timed-entry ticket as soon as you know when you are traveling there.

3. MAKING YOUR WAY TO THE FIRST EATERY YOU COME ACROSS

If the prix fixe offered by the tourist crowd isn`t as good as you`d hoped, don`t be shocked. There are no shortcuts when it comes to eating. Make separate meal plans with reservations to popular local restaurants based on your study; these will be less expensive or worthwhile. You may uncover new and old eateries to arrange your trip by checking out local blogs and social media accounts. In case you are in a situation when you are extremely hungry but you are in the busiest area of the city, try to steer clear of eateries that have multilingual menus and be prepared to say "no thank you" to the servers who are standing outside to serve hungry and disoriented guests.

4. BRINGING A BUNDLE OF CASH

You probably have a credit card that doesn`t impose fees for foreign transactions, so don`t worry; many shops genuinely accept credit cards. (If not, consider registering for one.) Carrying some cash is a good idea, but avoid having a lot with you. Pickpocketing is rather widespread, particularly in tourist-heavy locations, so if at all possible, try to avoid carrying significant sums of cash on you.

5. NOT GOING OUTSIDE OFTEN ENOUGH

Take inspiration from the Europeans who like dining and drinking al fresco. Pack a picnic blanket, stop at a grocery shop for some drinks, and eat one meal at a plaza or by a river. It`s an enjoyable and inexpensive way to mix things up and stop eating out constantly.

6. NOT CHECKING YOUR PHONE PLAN

International roaming is becoming included in more cell operators` plans. Check to see if you have data abroad by reading through the specifics of your plan or giving the business a quick call a few days before you depart. Make sure you keep access to your Google Maps application.

7. PLACING EVERY BREAD AND WATER ORDER

Although they seem like a given, they`re sometimes free at restaurants and can significantly increase costs. Once seated, make it a point to decline the bread basket unless you`re positive you want it.

8. FAILING TO REQUEST A REFUND

You can be qualified for a VAT refund if you made a lot of purchases in Europe. You must request the appropriate paperwork from the merchant and present it to the appropriate airport officials

9. IGNORING THE TIME OF DAY

We advise setting your phone to 24-hour or military time if you`re on a schedule or have important plans to ensure you don`t miss anything.

10. PLAYING DOWN YOUR COMFORT

No matter where you`re going, you`ll be walking, so make sure you pack appropriately. It`s hardly fun to explore in uncomfortable clothes or shoes. Avoid becoming the person who constantly complains about their clothes and causes other people to slow down