Tips for Traveling To and Around Europe

Tips for Traveling To and Around Europe

by Terry Miller

Europe is one of the most heavily traveled continents for people coming from North America. There are so many famous countries that offer excitement, culture, learning experiences, and an overall enjoyable time. After choosing the country within Europe that you would like to visit, or if you plan to visit multiple countries on your vacation, you should be aware of the following tips.

Getting into Europe is not as easy as it used to be, so you'll want to come prepared. You must have a passport to enter any country. Consequently if you are traveling through several of them, it is wise to have your passport and/or visa ready at all times to show to the various customs offices. You also need to be aware in advance of items and products you can and cannot bring into other countries as you travel from one to another.

There are 320 mixed languages spoken throughout Europe, so try to learn a few key phrases based on the primary languages of your destination nations. The majority of Europeans speak several languages in addition to their mother tongue, so it should suffice to learn just a bit of the major ones. A high percentage of people also speak at least a little English as well, depending to where you travel.

When renting a car, be aware of different national laws. Some such as Ireland, Cyprus, and parts of England require driving on the left hand side of the road, so be cautious if you plan to drive. (If you are uncomfortable with that arrangement and fear making a critical driving error on the wrong side of the road, you might alternatively consider taking a taxi instead of driving yourself.) Seatbelts are required everywhere you travel in Europe and for everyone in the car, so don't be negligent. Additionally, the speed limits change and can be much higher than those in the US; drive safely and move to the far side of the road if you plan to motor at a slower pace.

Finally, you need to know that electrical currents differ in Europe from that the United States. There are special adapters you can purchase before your departure so that you can plug in your hair dryer, iron, and other electrical necessities you may bring on the trip. If you do not have an adapter, ask your hotel concierge to provide one since the power will ruin anything using electricity without using an adapter.

Planning your trip thoroughly is a good idea. If you do this, you will minimize your hassles as you travel throughout these beautiful countries. It will be truly a positive experience you will never forget.