European travel is an experience that every traveler dreams of. From the wine country, to the historic and modern cities, to the stunning architecture, there is no place like Europe on this earth. So let’s get started and discuss about European travel!
Know the European travel
1. Getting there is easy.
If you live in the United States, you can take flights from many of the major cities to Paris, London or Rome. Most European cities have low-cost carriers that will fly you directly to their city. If your trip involves multiple countries in Europe, we recommend taking the train (Eurostar), which is comfortable and has great service.
2. First things first – a phone or a SIM card?
If you are going to be based in one country for several weeks or months and won’t need SIM cards, then it might make sense to buy an unlocked phone through Amazon (Amazon also sells unlocked phones, though they may not be designed for navigating Europe). However, it may not be worth the money, as you would need to buy a local SIM card anyway. It is also possible to buy a phone from inside any European country.
3. Cash or credit?
Credit cards are used in Europe mostly for day-to-day purchases, but not for big ticket items. We suggest having at least some cash on you (€100s or €500s) for the small expenses such as buying a ticket at the train station, a coffee in a cafe, and so forth.
4. Wonder no more – Europe has trains!
European train travel is very efficient and easy. If you have ever ridden in an American train, you will find that European trains offer similar services with one exception: seating is reserved only on regional trains and not on long-distance trains (aside from a few high-speed electric railways).
5. Trains are no longer the only means of transportation.
In fact, there are several companies that offer services similar to those offered by airlines. Car hire can be a very comfortable experience. We recommend renting a car through Europcar (click here for more information). Although this may be more expensive than other options, you don’t have to worry about paying tolls and on-the-spot fines like you would with public transportation.