The continent of Europe is a precious gem. Every nation, from the far west to the far east, is distinct from the ones that came before it in terms of its traditions, architectural styles, and must-see tourist destinations. The fact that the vast majority of Europe is landlocked makes it very simple to travel throughout the continent. As a result, rather of merely visiting one nation and then returning the following year to visit another, many individuals choose to travel across the continent on extended vacations.
Even though going from one nation to another might seem like a simple process, there are a few things you should be aware of before you do so. When traveling to a country in Europe such as Ireland, it is imperative that you make a reservation in advance with a trustworthy airport transfer operator.
If you are considering going on a journey throughout Europe, make sure that you keep these ten pieces of advice in mind before you set out on your adventure.
1. Variations in the Currency:
Alterations to the time zone are a given, but alterations to the currency are not. You would be excused for assuming that the majority of European countries utilize the Euro; however, this is not the case. There are certain countries on the continent of Europe that do not participate in the European Union (such as the UK, Norway, and Turkey). Even if a nation is a member of the European Union, it does not automatically follow that it will adopt the Euro as its primary currency. Countries such as these include:
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Hungary
• Poland
• Romania
• Sweden
You should be aware of the currency of the countries you are going to be visiting and make a note of the exchange rates. It is always a good idea to bring some Euros with you, even if the country doesn’t typically use that currency, because some countries will accept it as a form of payment even if they don’t normally use the euro.
2. Business Hours and Times (Siestas)
It is highly likely that you will come across opening hours that are different from what you are accustomed to, depending on where you are from and where you are going. This rule is most strictly adhered to in warm nations, such as Spain, where it is customary for the citizens to take a nap in the middle of the day when the temperature is at its highest. As a direct consequence of this, many firms are forced to close for two hours at midday. It’s possible that this won’t be the case in tourist destinations and resort locations because businesses there are trying to maximize their profits. On the other hand, in hidden gem areas that are off the main path, it’s more probable that this time-honored custom will be upheld. You should therefore make sure that you are aware of closing times and societal opening hours before you find yourself in a situation in which you are short on supplies and in urgent need of some, but you are unable to obtain any.
3. Variations in Temperature:
The distance from the east coast to the west coast of Europe is 1,339 miles, and the distance from the north to the south is 2,076 miles. Europe is a very diverse continent. Even though it’s one of the smallest continents on Earth, it has both subarctic and desert landscapes on its territory at the same time. It is highly likely that you will experience all of these temperatures at some point during your trip if you are going to be traveling from the west to the east or from the north to the south, so you will need to pack appropriately for your journey.
When you get to Rome, you might be able to get away with wearing shorts, a t-shirt, and sandals. However, when you get to Russia, you will most certainly need to have sturdy boots, wooly mittens, and a large parka coat. The last thing you want is to suffer from hypothermia (or hyperthermia) and be forced to buy an entirely new wardrobe for each of the countries you visit.
4. Don’t Overpack:
We have just advised you to pack for any and all contingencies, while at the same time reminding you to pack lightly. Carrying about two suitcases that each weigh 20 kilograms can be exceedingly challenging in Europe due to the region’s maze-like streets, winding roads, and quaint services. Because it is quite possible that you will be using multiple modes of transportation and will be continuously traveling from one location to another, the last thing you want to do is pack up your entire life every other week and drag it down some impractically small cobblestone streets.
Instead, you should carry two of everything, including sufficient clean underwear for a week’s worth of wear. That includes things like two sweaters, two pairs of trousers, two skirts/shorts, two dresses, and so on. There are going to be a lot of laundromats in the area that can wash your clothes for you, and while the idea of going to the laundromat every week might not sound like the most pleasant thing in the world, neither does the idea of dragging your entire wardrobe down the winding, single-file streets that are cobbled in Greece.
5. Transportation Via Land:
To a large extent, Europe is an island-free continent (with the exception of some islands and parts of Scandinavia). As a result of the widespread use of trains as a mode of transportation in Europe, the continent’s nations are often effectively connected to one another by means of railway lines. If you are going to be traveling around Europe, the best mode of transportation to choose is the train. It is inexpensive, it is quick, and it provides you with the opportunity to take in a lot greater amount of the natural beauty that is found on the continent.
Ferries are a mode of transportation that can frequently be more cost effective than flying when it comes to getting to islands such as those found in the United Kingdom and the Mediterranean. Taxis are your best buddy when it comes to traveling to spots that are difficult to access. Taxis are plentiful in Europe and are not difficult to flag down, regardless of whether you choose to use Uber or an independent provider like Place2Place. After you have arrived at your location, you may want to consider renting a car with the assistance of a website such as StressFreeCarRental.com. This will provide you the flexibility to explore the island at your own leisure and go exactly where you would like to go.
6. Shoes that are Easy on the Feet:
As was previously said, Europe is home to a great number of winding alleyways, uneven cobblestone pathways, and steep inclines. This is one continent where, no matter where you go, you won’t be able to appreciate it in a pair of heels, so make sure you take a comfortable pair of trainers or flats because there is a LOT of walking to be done.
7. Seating Arrangements:
Because tourists swarm across most of Europe at any given season of the year, nearly all of the continent’s restaurants are typically overflowing with patrons virtually all of the time. If you tend to eat out of the blue, you’ll need to adjust your dining habits as soon as possible. The Europeans conduct their business on the basis of reservations. Due to the high volume of customers, some bars even require patrons to make seating reservations in advance. Make sure to call up a day in advance to book your location; if you don’t, you’ll end up eating at McDonald’s instead of a typical dish from the area, which would be a total waste of your time and money to travel there in the first place.
8. Water from the Tap:
Because the quality of the water that comes out of the tap in Europe can change depending on where you are, it is recommended to avoid drinking it. The consumption of bottled water has a significant negative impact on the natural environment; yet, drinking tap water in Europe may have a significant negative impact on your digestive system; therefore, it is important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each option. By this, we refer to the possibility that the water’s mineral content will undergo a significant shift, which may result in abdominal distress or diarrhoea.
It is essential to keep in mind that the tap water in Europe is completely safe to drink and is subject to stringent monitoring; nonetheless, the quality of the water varies from location to location, which means that your stomach may experience some discomfort as a result of the water. You should keep this in mind moving forward.
9. Food Attractions That Lure Tourists:
Earlier on, we touched on the need of making reservations, but it’s also essential to remember to steer clear of eateries that prey on tourists. The restaurants and coffee shops found in close proximity to major attractions, despite their convenience, are typically more expensive and of lower quality than comparable establishments in the surrounding area. If you are willing to travel just a little bit further, you will find some lovely locations that are brimming with regional specialties that are much more expertly prepared and are selling for much more reasonable prices.
10. Flight Compensation, Regulation (EC) 261:
The good news is that you are protected by EC 261, which is a flight compensation program, in the unfortunate event that you decide to travel across Europe by airplane. If your flight is delayed by three hours or more, is canceled, or if you are denied boarding, you are entitled to compensation, and the airline is required to offer accommodations where appropriate. If your trip is delayed by less than three hours, you are not eligible for compensation. This rule applies to any and all flights that depart from or land in European countries, regardless of whether or not the airline in question is based in one of the countries that makes up the EU. If circumstances take a turn for the worst, this provides a nice little piece of security for you and your family.
If you are interested in fantastic possibilities for day tours, then reserving a spot with Collins Day Tours is a fantastic idea for you to consider.
These are just ten recommendations for traveling throughout Europe, but the most important thing to remember is to ENJOY YOURSELF!