First Time Traveler Tips/Hints/Suggestions/Tricks and Guide

[wilson49332]

I thought this would be a good idea for those of you planning a trip to Europe. Since this is the start of the semester, I have a little extra time to throw some of my thoughts in, and I would appreciate others ideas as well.

So here are some thoughts of mine, and I will add to them as I find time, or get your suggestions.

1. First off- dont worry about the unknown. Live a little. Most Americans worry about what it will be like in Europe. Trust a seasoned vet who has lived there- its not much different then here. The food is not much different, they still have almost all of the American fast food joints, and you can even shop at Walmarts! The roads are no different, they have freeways, gas stations, etc. I have had people ask me things like do they have electric!! Come on- the only major difference between the US and Europe is the buildings are older. Other then that, I didnt see too much. Thats not to say dont visit- thats just saying dont be afraid to visit.

As to Safety- Its safer in most of Europe then the US. Just beware of pickpockets- but so long as you dont ask for trouble- you wont get it. So yeah, dont worry there. See my post later on on the safety topic.

2. One drawback- you will always spend more then you plan- so just be prepared for more. Its expensive, and especially in the bigger cities, dont forget the exchange rate is worse. ESPECIALLY in London- where prices are high anyways, but the exchange rate is almost 100 dollars to 50 pounds!

3. Stay in Hostels unless you wish to go first class. They allow for better social hours given you meet people from all over the world, including the US.

4. Try not to do it all in a week! I always say quantity over quality, but there are two sides to that. If you do too much, you will be tired, and also wont get to feel like a true European- a must when in Europe to try to fit in.

5. Buy Excellent walking shoes. Europe's bigger cities are NOT too car friendly, so expect to walk a lot! No matter what you do. Lines are also a must- expect them no matter when and where you go. Especially in the summer.

6. Be prepared for all weather. It snows, its hot at times, its cold at times. Of course it changes like the US. Dress appropriately too. In churches, make sure you arent in shorts or holy jeans etc.

7. Buy small maps, nothing that will make you look like a tourist. Also buy a small waistholder, to carry money, etc in. Dont look like a tourist- it will allow for a better trip anyways- it will make you feel right at home.

8. Copy everything, especially your passport. Make sure you know where that is at ALL times. I would buy a ISIC card as well. That is only like 25 bucks and serves as your identity card. That card kept me out of a German jail! (PS- dont get cought riding a bus or train without your ticket. I did, and they let me buy a regular fare ticket because I showed them my identity card. I forgot my bus pass.) This card is buyable on isic.org and also comes with some international phone minutes, and whats best is it comes with extra health insurance abroad.

9. Make sure someone knows where you are at all times. I would let family know or someone so they know that if you get sick or out of contact, they know where to reach you in case of emergency. This is comon sense anyways.

10. As far as language goes- most everyone in Europe speaks English. Police are everywhere, dont be afraid to ask them if you get lost. Otherwise, most anyone will be glad to help. They love tourists- especially Americans. But yeah, when in doubt ask an official or someone at a ticket booth or what not, or ask a kid. Most countries in Europe have the kids learn English starting in 1st grade, so they know it well usually. BUT- try to learn a few key phrases just in case. They love Americans when trying to speak broken language, they find it funny I guess. It also shows that you respect the fact that you are a visitor to there country- they HATE snobby Americans who think that just because they have money, they can treat the country like its USA Senior. NOO!

11. Avoid political debates. They hate Bush, its a given. It can get very heated, trust me!

12. Take the Eurail- its a great way to get around! Cheaper too.

13. Contiki is good for tours in the normal sense, but I myself prefer self guided tours. More independence to do as you please. That all depends on who you are as to which way you go- on your own or on a guided tour.

14. Safety issues you may have? I could do an entire post on this. But to keep it simple. Dont go loking for trouble. Use common sense. Dont go just cuz you want to drink legally if your 16-20. Thats stupid! They dont go easy on offenders to public drunkeness, even if your American. Drink, fine, but do it with caution. (I sound like a parent now- sorry!)

-Try to have a cell phone at all times- rent one if yours wont work in Europe. Of course be nutty about locking luggage, and keeping money out of site. Use credit cards a lot- they are usually free or cheaper then exchanging money, and are easy to get replaced if lost or stolen. BUT- do keep some money in hand- some places wont accept plastic. Use Visa, not Mastercard.

-Try to travel in groups, but if alone stay in the tourist areas. Try to be back before dark as well, but if not, like I said stay in well lighted areas where other people are visible. Those are the same things you would do in the US- its not much different except even more so.

15. Do your research first, plan as much as you can here. But, BE FLEXIBLE!!! It will change- thats ok! Buy a tour book, and try to plan a day, but also know there will be things like long lines that you cant plan for.

16. They get very mad when taking some pictures- watch that. I took a picture of some jewels in London at the Tower (DO IT in London too!), and I was forced to delete them and leave. They were not nice at all on that aspect.

17. BRING your own small first aid kit. ESPECIALLY some asprin. It is not sold over the counter in Germany and some other countries in Europe as they feel you should need a prescription for it. So yea, you dont bring it, you deal with the headache in Germany!! Its more expensive there anyways.

18. Mostly- ENJOY!!!

I will be adding to this like I said- it is a work in progress as you can see- but please post replies with other ideas- we welcome your thoughts!


Some Great Websites for more info too: (I dont copy there info here and call it my own, everythign I write is from my own or friends own thoughts), but will try to get a list going as well:

1. [link]
Great source of info on budgeting, packing, safety, hostel reviews, etc....
2. [link]
International Student Identity Card Site- also has some more hints and tricks too. Great on discounts you get with the card too.
3. [link]
What dont they have? Mostly geared for UK, but is good for everywhere too.

[chinh9]

You said use credit cards - I've heard there are surcharges for using credit cards in Europe...how will we know if there is one or not?

[ivybell]

The best thing to do would be call your credit card company. I use a Mastercard debit card and am charged 1% per transaction. That's very little and the exchange rate is better than elsewhere.
_________________
In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: It goes on.
Robert Frost

[lancemaria]

You're tips are really very useful!

[politicslovr]

Here are some tips for riding trains in France:

Step-by-Step Guide to Having Your Way With the SNCF

Before listing the steps, I'd like to answer any questions you may have:

Q. What's the SNCF?

A. La Societé Nationale de Chemins de Fer Français, or the National Society of the French Paths of Iron, is the French National Railway Company. In other words, US:Amtrak::France:SNCF.

Q. Why do I need to have my way with them?

A. First of all, trains are an enormously popular form of transportation in Europe. They connect people. France itself boasts about 32,000 miles or rail lines, with high speed lines linking destinations all over the country. It's quick. It takes 3 hours tops to travel from Paris to destinations at the bottom of the country. Second of all, trains are easy to use. No check-in, no hauling suitcases through terminals - you just show up before it leaves. Third of all, it's reliable. There are no traffic jams, and time delays are rare. Other than being on a train that lost power four times in the middle of the French countryside, I've never had any worries. If you're going to be interacting with the SNCF fairly often, you need to know how to make every encounter advantageous for you!

Q. Which Rail Passes are valid in France?
A. Lots! Here are your choices:

1. Eurail Global Pass
2. Eurail Select Pass, with France as one of the countries
3. Several Eurail Regional Passes
* France - Switzerland
* France - Spain
* France - Germany
* France - Italy
* Benelux - France

With a Rail Pass, you only need to pay a reservation fee (3-5 euros) - and only in these three circumstances: 1) you absolutely need to take a specific train at a specific time; 2) you're taking the TGV (high speed train); 3) you're taking an overnight train. If these three don't apply, you may board any train at the station.

Q. How do I buy tickets?
A. In most, if not all French train stations, the SNCF has these incredibly handy yellow electronic stands that kind of look like ATMs in convenience stores. Unfortunately, they only accept credit cards with chips, and most American credit cards use the black stripe. Although you can't actually purchase the tickets, you can go through the motions to check out train timetables. Write down your preferred route(s) and approach the ticket counter (guichets). If you have a rail pass, show it, or tell the person you have one. If your pass isn't validated, ask the person to do that!

Q. How do I buy tickets before I leave for France?
A. Follow these steps:

1. Go to the TGV Europe site.

2. Click "More Criteria."

3. Enter the cities of departure and arrival. If there are multiple stations in the city you enter, the site will ask you to choose one. If you are unsure, just select the city itself on the list - e.g. Studentown(23).

4. Choose the days with the calendar. Click the little calendar icon. NB: In France, the week begins on Monday.

5. For times, select the hour ahead of your desired time. For example, if you want to leave at 17h30 (5:30pm), select 17h.

6. Under Section 3, change the passenger information from Adult to Young Person if you are under 26.

7. Leave the country of collection at FRANCE.

**At this point, the page may be in French. Ne vous inquietez pas! (Don't worry!), the versions ask for the same information in the same boxes. I will include the French terms for your convenience.**

Click "Search Now." You will be redirected to the SNCF site. Double check your information, then click "Search Now"/"Rechercher maintenant" again.

8. Choose your ticket....but not without looking at a few details:

-Best price table. If you don't have any specific times in mind, this table is your best friend. Good prices are in green. But WAIT - there's a 20h16 train that costs 24E! The "steals" are in orange.

-Train type. TGV = high speed train. Lyria = high speed train. ICE = high speed train. If this says Corail or TER, you're on a slow/local train.

-Journey Time/Durée. Some trains make more stops, which translates to a longer ride. Some of the local trains make less stops than TGV trains, meaning the "slow" train will sometimes beat the high speed one.

-First Class Promotions. Sometimes First Class is cheaper. Look out for these.

-PREMs. PREMs are your friends. These early-bird specials are great deals. Can be available in First or Second Class. NOT exchangeable or refundable.

-Loisirs. Semi-cheap fares. After PREMs, they're your best bet.

9. Choose your place. After selecting the radio button next to your preferred ticket, the words "Choisir Ma Place" will appear under the ticket's section (next to "Choose Your Outward Journey"). Personally, I like window seats on the top deck, but you may indicate your own preferences here. If you're traveling a friend who has already purchased a ticket, you may request a specific seat number next to your friend in the spaces provided.

French Train Seating Vocab:
fenêtre = window (seat)
couloir = aisle
salle haute = upper level - for "double decker" TGVs (French: TGV duplex)
salle basse = lower level
solo = single seat by itself, as opposed to...
duo côte à côte = seat that's next to another seat...or...
duo vis à vis = seat across from another seat (vis à vis = face to face)

You may see more choices than these, but the remaining ones are just combinations of the ones above. For example, my favorite is "Salle haute - Fenêtre" - window seat on the upper level.


TGV Duplex in CDG airport.

10. Confirm your choice by clicking "Choose Your Outward Journey"/"Valider Cet Aller."

11. Review your order. Reject the insurance. ("Je ne le souhaite pas.") Click the little green arrow to continue.

12. Sometimes, it gives customers the option of picking up the tickets at the ticket window, or printing them out at home. These options are preferable. If you don't see one of these options, choose "collect your ticket from an automatic ticket machine" As discussed before, the machines don't accept black stripe credit cards, so you'll have to retrieve your tickets at the counter (=guichet).

Imprimez votre billet vous-même... = print out your ticket at home
Retirer votre billet en borne libre service = collect your ticket from an automatic ticket machine
Retirer votre billet aux guichets = pick up tickets at the SNCF counter

NB: Pick up tickets a few days before your trip. There will be LONG LINES at the guichet. Wouldn't it be tragic to watch the train leave while you're standing in line?

13. Fill out the contact information. Surname = Last Name. Check the box to acknowledge the conditions of sale, then click the little green arrow to continue.

French terms:
Civilité = Title. Monsieur for males; Mademoiselle for single women; Madame for married women, older single women.
Nom = LAST NAME
Prénom = First Name
Adresse électronique = e-mail address
Confirmer votre adresse... = confirm your e-mail address. Type it again.
En cochant cette case, je reconnais... = In checking this box, I acknowledge the conditions of sale...

14. Enter your payment information. Pay. You're done!

French terms:
N° de carte (numéro de carte) = card number
Expire fin = expiration date
Code de securité = Security code. Visa/MC - last three digits on the back of the card. AMEX = last four digits on the front of the card.

Q. Anything else I need to know?
A. Trains are awesome. Also, this guide is completely unbiased.

The Traveler's Guide to the SNCF Galaxy

1. Compostez votre billet! Take your ticket and insert it (I'm still not sure which side) into the yellow machines. It stamps the date and time on the ticket, validating it for immediate use. If the billet isn't composté, you could be forced to pay the SNCF extra moneyé. Tickets printed at home do not need to be validated.

2. If there's a problem, find the controleur before he finds/fines you! Find the Big Cheese...er...Grand Fromage and let him know. The SNCF is much less likely to accuse you of wrongdoing if you initiate contact. "I'm a little confused" always beats "I'm trying to hide from authorities and be naughty, ergo I deserve a nasty fine."

3. Smile. Remember to use "please" (s'il vous plaît = seal voo play) and "thank you" (merci = mare-see) abundantly, even if the controleur isn't helping you. The French become instantly delightful when you are polite.

4. If you've really gone astray (i.e. boarded the wrong train), remember to use the patented tool of Puppy Face. Looking sad triggers a release of the 2.5 fl. oz. of sympathy that all French people keep with them. Seriously, they are a very understanding lot. Just don't forget #3.

5. BE ON TIME! BE ON TIME! BE ON TIME! I wouldn't type it three times in capital letters if it weren't important! Apparently, European trains pride themselves in being punctual. Departing time means departing time. If your train is scheduled for 9:15, the train will begin MOVING AWAY from the platform by 9:16. I've seen a man so desperate he jumped onto a parting train. Scary stuff. Be at the station at least 20 minutes before departure; arrive even earlier if you're unfamiliar with the station.

NB1: Eurostar trains REQUIRE you to check in 30 MINUTES before departure. Arrive an hour before to be safe.

NB2: Train stations in Europe use a 24-hour clock. (ex. 21h15=9:15pm - just subtract 12).

As a veteran of train travel in France, (including committing errors profound and numerous in nature) I can safely say that if you abide by this simple guide, your travel experience will be a pleasant one.
_________________
Certified Franceologist.

[del24]

great tips...

regarding copying everything... I send myself emails of the copies so i have access to them, as well as carying them on a spare, password protected USB!

[wilson49332]

Yes, its a critical step- make sure to copy because if you loose your passport, it will speed things up.

[shan467]

Hey guys,
I am a senior at Boston College and have studied abroad two semesters and therefore traveled and backpacked a lot as well! I went to Australia and Italy, and then traveled to all the surrounding countries. When I was studying abroad I traveled with a group during on of my school breaks because it was too difficult to plan everything myself so last minute with all the tests and partying ect. I went with Contiki and traveled to eight different countries in less than two weeks. I went with a bunch of my friends and met up with a group of about 25 other men and women my age. We traveled together for about two weeks, saw many different countries, partied, went site seeing, white water rafting, hiked, shopped....everything!!! We were sooo safe, had amazing tour guides, the freedom to do whatever (go on tours already paid for or not, tour ourselves)...we had tips from the guides, everything was prepaid and planned so we could go out til 4 in the am and catch a bus instead of go crazy to find a train (plus no train stikes). I could go on and on forever...it was seriously the best thing I could have done....let me know if you have any questions, but I seriously would recommend Contiki Tours...checkout the website or I made a blog...