Top Tips for Traveling in Europe: A Handy Guide

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Pam MacIntyre

Maple Grove, MN

Australia & New Zealand Specialist

New Zealand

In all my years as a Travel Professional, I’ve asked countless people, “What’s on your must-see list?” And without fail, New Zealand is always at the top! Honestly, who wouldn’t want to experience this majestic ...

New Zealand

In all my years as a Travel Professional, I’ve asked countless people, “What’s on your must-see list?” And without fail, New Zealand is always at the top! Honestly, who wouldn’t want to experience this majestic part of the world?

I was fortunate enough to visit both the North and South Islands, and what I love about New Zealand is that it offers the perfect blend of laid-back charm and action-packed adventure, all while being nothing short of epic.

The country is home to endless national parks, a rich Maori culture, and unforgettable experiences like sailing through the sounds while dolphins playfully follow your yacht. And let’s not forget the awe-inspiring moment of witnessing a sperm whale off the coast of Kaikoura—talk about jaw-dropping beauty!

Oh, and did I mention wine? If you’re a fan of great wine (and who isn’t?), New Zealand is a must-visit for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and more. How do I know? Because I couldn’t resist visiting a winery or two during my travels!

Honestly, I could go on and on about the magic of New Zealand, but if you’re reading this, you already know you want to explore this incredible part of the world. Let’s work together to create your perfect New Zealand adventure!

Australia

Let me start by saying, I’ve wanted to visit Australia since I was a child. Why, you ask? Well, to pet a kangaroo, of course! And yes, I did! Not only did I pet a kangaroo, but I actually fed FOUR at the same time. Childhood dream come true, right? And I can’t wait to go back for round two.

While I was in Sydney, I had the chance to experience the spectacular Vivid Sydney Festival, celebrating its 10th year. It was honestly WOW! Never in my wildest dreams did I think Australia would be so perfect to visit during their winter season. But coming from Minnesota, their “winter” felt more like our fall—absolutely ideal! Seeing the Sydney Opera House light up during the festival was something I’ll never forget.

And then there’s the Blue Mountains region—so lovely to explore on foot. From there, we ventured to Hunter Valley (known to the locals as "The Hunter"), where wine flowed freely, and every glass was more delicious than the last.

Australia’s size is truly hard to grasp until you’ve experienced it firsthand. To put it in perspective: Sydney would be in Florida, Cairns (home of the Great Barrier Reef) would be in Maine, Uluru (Ayers Rock) would be in Kansas, Melbourne would be in New Orleans, and Perth would be in Los Angeles.

Whether you're dreaming of visiting the world’s largest Great Barrier Reef, immersing yourself in Aboriginal culture, swimming with whale sharks, or gazing upon the majestic Uluru, Australia has endless possibilities waiting for you.

Let’s make your dream trip to Australia a reality—one that you’ll remember for the rest of your life!     

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Pam MacIntyre

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General Etiquette

• Start with a Simple Ask: Before jumping into conversation, check if someone speaks English. If not, no worries! Apps like Google Translate are lifesavers and can help you communicate.


• Polite Phrases Go a Long Way: Learning a few basic phrases in the local language shows respect and often earns you a warm smile. Even a simple "hello," "please," or "thank you" makes a difference!

Dining & Restaurant Tips

• Tipping: Tipping customs vary. While some countries include service charges, others appreciate a few euros for excellent service. A quick Google search can save you the guesswork.


• Watch for Price Variations: In many places, the price for a coffee or snack may differ depending on whether you stand at the bar or sit at a table. In Portugal, those little breads and butters on the table often come with a charge. France, though? Free bread is the norm.


• Reservations Recommended: Popular spots fill up fast, especially near tourist sites. Booking ahead is always a good idea.

Ask for the Check: In Europe, servers won’t rush you because they want you to savor your meal and enjoy the experience. When you're ready to leave, just ask for the check. Here’s how to say it:

• France: L’addition, s’il vous plaît


• Italy: Il conto, per favore


• Spain: La cuenta, por favor


• Germany: Die Rechnung, bitte


• Portugal: A conta, por favor


• Greece: To logariasmó, parakaló


• Netherlands: De rekening, alstublieft


• Sweden: Notan, tack


• Norway: Regningen, takk


• Denmark: Regningen, tak


• Poland: Rachunek, prosze


• Czech Republic: Úcet, prosím


• Hungary: A számlát, kérem


• Turkey: Hesap, lütfen


• Croatia: Racun, molim

That’s all you need—simple and polite! To hear how these phrases sound, search them online or use a translation app. Even if it’s not perfect, locals will appreciate the effort!

Driving in Europe

• Know the Rules: Some countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Double-check before you go to avoid any surprises.


• Speed Cameras & Restricted Zones: Europe loves its speed cameras. Also, watch out for ZTLs(Limited Traffic Zones)in many cities, which are often only accessible to locals.


• Parking Prep: Parking in major cities can be a challenge, so consider reserving a spot in advance using apps like Indigo(especially in France). Tourist hotspots tend to have pricey parking, so budget accordingly.

Transportation Apps

Sure, Uber is popular, but don’t miss out on Bolt—it’s often cheaper and widely available. FreeNow is also handy for rides, and for food cravings, check out JustEat.

Money & Currency Tips

• ATM: Choose the option to let your bank do the currency exchange when withdrawing cash for better rates. Always select to be charged in euros rather than your home currency.


• Bathroom Breaks: Depending on the country public restrooms could require a small fee, so keep some coins handy. Also, not all restrooms provide toilet paper, so stashing a bit of tissue isn’t a bad idea. The Flush App can help you locate nearby restrooms. 

Travel Necessities: Adapters & Converters

• When traveling in Europe, it’s essential to bring the right adapters and converters. Make sure to research the specific plug types and voltage requirements of the countries you're visiting to ensure your devices stay powered throughout your trip. 

Cultural Insights

• Mind the Dress Code: Religious sites often have strict dress codes, so keep a scarf or shawl with you to cover up when needed.


• Gesture Awareness: Not all hand gestures mean the same thing across borders. And heads up—in the UK, the term “fanny pack” means something very different. Call it a “bum bag” or "belt bag" instead.


• Dodge Tourist Traps: Hungry? Walk a few blocks from the major attractions for authentic cuisine at a fraction of the price.

Essential Travel Tips

• Stay Secure: A cross-body bag or a front-facing backpack is your best friend in crowded areas. Keep valuables close to avoid pickpockets.


• Packing Tips: Start with breathable base layers and layer on a jacket for added warmth. Opt for mix-and-match pieces in neutral tones. Select stylish yet practical shoes perfect for walking. Zinc Lozenges!


• Stay Connected: An international cell phone plan or a local SIM card will keep you online. Download offline maps from Google Maps before your trip in case you lose service.

Travel Documentation & Safety

• Keep Copies: Carry a photocopy of your passport instead of the original while out exploring.


• Register with STEP: The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program(STEP) lets the U.S. government assist you in emergencies. It’s a smart move for peace of mind.

Other Handy Tips

• Save on Sightseeing: Many cities offer museum and attraction passes for discounts. Book tickets online in advance for major spots to skip the lines. Ask me for details. 


• Know Store Hours: In smaller towns, stores may be closed on Sundays, and even some city attractions take a rest on Mondays or Tuesdays. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment. 

Happy travels! Europe’s got a little bit of everything, from charming villages to bustling cities. Embrace the adventure, savor the culture, and enjoy every moment!