Three Words That Can Ruin Your Trip to Europe…I Didn’t Know
Updated: 12/15/2021
You are so excited, you have landed in the country of your dreams, you check into your hotel, and just want a quick shower so you can explore. You try to plug in your blow dryer and …uh oh…? Did you know the outlets take round prongs? So, let’s take you through a few tips for traveling to Europe so things like this and a few more, don’t happen to you.
Voltage Converters and Adapters
You may need a converter and/or an adapter if you plan on bringing small appliances with you like shavers, blow dryers, curling, or flat irons. The converter will convert our 120 volts to 220-240 volts. Adapters will not convert voltage, instead they allow you to plug our 2 flat progs (or 3 prongs) into European outlets. Most converters come with extra adapters, therefore, you may not need to purchase both. Some appliances can be purchased with a dual voltage setting, a blow dryer or curling iron are examples.
Most cell phones, laptops, tablets, and battery chargers only require adapters and not converters. The small print on the label will usually say Input 100-240V, 50-60Hz which indicates you only need an adapter. Check your labels. Always check the country for both volts and prong type before you purchase anything and most importantly before you leave for vacation. Cruise ships vary as well so you will want to verify this before sailing in Europe as well.
Phone Service and Internet
Many carriers offer a daily fee to allow you to use your phone in select foreign countries as if you are in the US. The fee usually begins when you use your phone for the first time and
lasts 24 hours from that point. Programs vary, not all countries are included and visiting multiple countries per day may have separate fees. Check with your provider before leaving the country.
You can also consider a local SIM card. Contact your service provider ahead of time to see if your phone can be unlocked. Once unlocked, you are free to buy international SIM cards (just make sure you purchase one with included data) and use them as needed. If you do this, your phone will use the local phone number associated with the SIM card.
Another option is to purchase in international plan but may not be worth the cost given the other options mentioned. Check costs with your provider.
Airports and international chains such as Starbucks may have open public Wi-Fi available, free of charge. Your cell-phone provider may also have international hotspots available for you to use, contact them ahead of time to find out more information. If on a cruise, you usually have to pay for Wi-Fi but it may be worth it, compare it to the other options before you decide.
Currency
It is always a good idea to bring a small amount of foreign currency for the coffee shops, or smaller towns you will visit. Markets like Christmas Markets or bazaars will want local currency so it is best to be safe rather than sorry when you can’t purchase that cute little craft for a friend because you only had US or a credit card. Keep in mind, not everyone is
on the Euro so check the currency of the country before leaving the US.
Exchange rates
The best way to get the best exchange is to know the current exchange rate. Generally, ATMs using your bank card will give you the best exchange rate. However, keep in mind that both international ATMs and your home bank may charge you a fee at the ATM, so better to limit the number of transactions. Check with your bank to see what their exchange rate is as well. Many will send the money to your home or you can request it and go pick it up before you go. Allow a few days to get the money, specially when you order a less common currency. When charging a purchase, always select the currency oof the country you are in if offered. The store may charge a fee to convert it tacked on to other fees so save yourself a few dollars.
Credit Cards
Always let your credit card company and bank know your travel plans ahead of time. Ask about international fees or the need for a pin number when using credit cards. So far, I have not needed a pin but this may happen. If you have a travel credit card, you are ahead of the game as they come with perks and may not have fees. Some banks no longer request that you report your travel to them so check with you bank. This can usually be done on your bank app..
Smart Traveler App - STEP
Always enroll in the STEP program. The app can be downloaded for apple and android phones. This will let the nearest US Embassy or Consulate know where you are and notify you if there are any emergencies in your area. Visit the website here: https://step.state.gov/
Your Passport
The name on your passport is who you are when traveling. Robert will not be Bob no matter if you never use the formal name. When booking travel, always, and I can’t stress this enough, always use the name on your passport. You can be denied boarding if any of your travel documents do not match.
Never pack your passport. It is best in your bag or carry-on luggage as long as you have easy access to it. Make 2 photocopies of your passport. Leave one with a family member or a friend. Or at least someone that can get in your house to get it if needed. The second copy goes with you along with your physical passport just in case you lose it.
Hotels
Some hotels will only allow check-in until a certain time of day but may be willing to make exceptions if you let them know ahead of time. Don’t be shocked when you get to your room. Standard room sizes may be a bit cozier than what you are used to at home, and beds may be much closer together - this is all part of the authentic European experience! And always check for air conditioning. It may not be standard in the country you are visiting particularly in historic buildings.
Save Your Hotel Address
Grab a business card from the lobby, take a photo of the address, or write it down somewhere - in case you get truly lost, you can hop in a cab and just give them the address. This is especially useful if you do not speak the language of the country you are visiting.
Identification
Most accommodations in Europe will ask to see your Passport. Some may even ask to hold on to it, so you may want to keep that copy you made before you left home handy.
Transportation
Get a metro or bus map, have the Uber app if the country has Uber, keep a taxi number handy. Always have local currency in case the cab will not take credit. Getting lost can be part of the fun if you have an easy way out!
Using Public Transportation
Many countries in Europe have a public transportation system that operates on the honor system. They trust you to buy a ticket and will have officers double checking once-in-a-while. Bigger cities with be like home where you must purchase a ticket or pass and enter through a turnstile. Check what "regions" your ticket is appropriate for; some tickets are only valid for certain zones, while more expensive options are more inclusive. If you are crossing the border this is critical.
Download Offline Maps
While connected to Wi-Fi, use Google Maps to make your directions available offline. You can also download offline map applications such as CityMaps2Go, which gives you one free map download per account. This uses GPS rather than data so you can track your location without being connected to the internet.
Food and Drink
The water is fine to drink in many countries but not all so it is always good to check first. Since sparkling water is preferred to non-sparkling in some European countries, you may have to clarify that you want non-sparkling when placing your order.
Tipping
Tipping in many European countries is not expected, but generally appreciated. Your best bet is to check what is expected in the country. Sign up for the weekly newsletter and receive the complimentary “Tipping Guide to Europe” here: www.vibranttravelco.com/subscribe
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