Do you want to take a dream vacation in Europe? It’s time to get your ducks in a row and start making your lofty travel plans a reality. Check out these simple tips and you – and those itchy feet – are well on your way.
Get a Budget
If you want to have a successful European trip you’ll need to begin with a budget. How much can you realistically spend without breaking the bank upon your inevitable return? Sure, it might be the trip of a lifetime but chances are you’ll still have financial obligations after the experience has ended.
In some situations you might want to consider taking out a small loan from a lending agency. Typically, better credit status will allow you to secure low interest rates and better financing options.
Get Legal
International travel will require legal documentation. Do you still need a passport? This crucial precursor to your voyage generally requires four to six weeks from the time of your application, although expedited services are available for an added fee. Already have a passport? Verify the expiration date so you aren’t stranded on foreign soil.
Get a Destination
When you begin planning your trip to Europe you’ll need to narrow down the country/countries where you want to devote your attention. Are you looking to experience everything Germany has to offer or are you determined to pack Belgium, Denmark and France into one outing? Where you travel may also determine if you require additional legal documentation like a temporary visa.
Get There
Your actual travel expense will likely be the most expensive portion of the trip – it pays to do your research here. Come to the table armed with hard dates and travel schedules, mindful of stretches where airfare prices spike and are discounted. GoEuro can minimize your searching with all-in-one tickets for rail, coach and air.
Get Lost in Translation
Perhaps the best travel advice we can give anyone bound for a European vacation is to become fully immersed. Create a rough travel itinerary that allows you to get lost in the city and explore – you don’t always need to know where you’re going, provided you are taking your own safety into account.
Get Some Sleep
Adjusting to a completely different time zone will generally take a full day or two – make sure you start your European trip on a mellow note. The real adventures should be waiting for you after your internal clock has been properly set. Jet lag can really slow you down.