Europe General Info
Europe, rich in cultural diversity and overflowing with natural beauty, is an excellent destination for the free-spirited independent traveler. From quaint fishing villages in Italy to medieval castles in Scotland, you will feel the history of many centuries, taste the decadence and struggles of rising western civilization and genuinely immerse yourself in the authentic lives of modern-day European culture.
As you travel, seek out the authentic not just the trendy: take day trips to towns outside the big cities; buy a picnic lunch from an outdoor market; and take the time to talk to the locals, even speaking a few words in their language. And, above and beyond all else, respect your host country. Be aware and appreciate (not violate or intrude upon) your surroundings and you will not only deepen your cultural experience, but defy any loud and intrusive stereotype often attached to tourists.
General Info
Planning your basic route is one of the smartest things to do. You can always change course once there, but first make a general outline of your itinerary taking into consideration your time and money constraints and the kind of experience you're looking for. Also, ask yourself what you are after…festivals and parties or a more culturally unique trip.
Based on your criteria, and to ensure that you're spending more time sightseeing and less time on a train or bus, select the most straightforward path to your desired destinations. There are numerous air, rail and bus options to choose from based on your time and money needs which are fully detailed in our transport section. Finally, don't cheat yourself by quickly hopping from one city or state to the next - you won't get a real appreciation for it. Traveling is about the quality of your experience, not the quantity of places visited.
Visitor Visas
Generally U.S., Canadian, Australian and U.K. citizens do not require a visa (only a passport) for visits up to 3 months in most European countries. For specific requirements please visit the websites below.
Health Insurance
Obtaining travel insurance covering medical expenses, theft and loss is highly recommended. There are many (youth and student) organizations that offer simple and inexpensive plans. Check with your local travel agent or on-line before taking off.
Should you require medical attention while abroad and you don't know where the hospital is, head to the nearest tourist information center. If you don't have the address or phone number of the nearest center, remember, there's usually one in or around the main train station of each city. Many times there is also a medical office in each major station.
Safety Tips
Many large European cities are known for their high incidence of pick pocketing and thievery. Travel smart: be on guard, yet be reasonable. Be curious, but trust your instincts. Here are a few tips:
- Keep your money and valuable documents (passport, airline/rail tickets) close to you body - preferably in a money belt that is strapped under your clothing to your body
- Keep a copy of your valuable documents (passport, tickets) and credit card emergency numbers in a separate place from the originals as well as leaving a set of copies at home. eKit offers secure document storage for no charge when you sign up for their free service.
- Don't get caught in large crowds (3 or more) where pickpockets can easily overwhelm you.
- Keep your luggage within eyeshot, or if you plan on sleeping on the train, fasten it to the rack with a padlock.
- If you have a day pack, keep it in the front of your body so that it cannot be zipped open without you knowing.
Money & Banks
ATM and credit cards are the best forms of payment abroad for a multitude of reasons, the number one being security and safety. Should you lose either one, it can be replaced. Also, when you buy something with a credit card, many times it is insured and can be reimbursed or replaced if stolen or broken. Credit cards are also recommended in case of an emergency, but more importantly you should have access to cash via an ATM card or have an emergency supply of cash tucked away with your valuables (passport, tickets etc). Also note that when using your credit card for payments, you often get a better exchange rate then if you change your money locally.
With the move to the Euro, the main currencies you may require on your trip include the Euro, the US Dollar (Eastern Europe and Turkey), Great British Pound or Pound Sterling, the Swiss Franc, the Hungarian Forint and/or the Czech Koruna.
