Seven Secrets for Successful Travel

Author: Karen Bryan

Article:
Independent travel in Europe - Seven Secrets for Success

One: Do not try to see and do too much.

You may end up actually seeing very little. I think it is better
to see more of fewer countries/regions and see them properly.
You may not want to stay in one location for your whole trip.
However if you choose carefully it may be possible to do several
day trips from one central location. If you do decide to tour,
consider spending at least two nights in some of your
destinations. It can be quite tiring being on the move every
day, packing and unpacking.

Two: Decide on mode of transport.

Driving will give you more flexibility but can be daunting at
times and is not recommended if you mainly wish to visit cities.
You may decide to take your own car if you live in Europe. If
you fly you can hire a car. Beware of extra charges for
additional drivers, insurance excesses, airport charges, out of
hours charges etc. I always book a hire car through a UK
company, with no excess. If you use a budget airline try to only
book direct flights. If you book a two let journey, the budget
airlines will not assist you, as they only operate a point to
point service. Public transport is pretty good in most of
Europe. There are also several budget airlines you can use
between countries e.g. Ryanair and Easyjet.

Three: Be aware of security of possessions.

Use a money belt, hotel safe etc. Do not have all your
money/cards in one purse or wallet. If you lose it you are in
trouble. This happened to me when I was in Milan: I was
travelling alone and was left penniless. My credit card company
did transfer funds to me but it took 24 hours! I had to borrow
10 euros from the hotel receptionist. Make sure you have travel
insurance and if there is an incident get a written report from
the local police station, to enable you to make a claim.

Four: Try to learn at least a few words of the language.

This will be greatly appreciated. My French is what you might
describe as school girl (that was 25 years ago) but I do try
when in France. Often I receive the reply in English but at
least I tried. I always apologise if I cannot speak the
language. I don't assume that the person I am talking to should
speak English, I ask in their language if they speak English.
As I do have a Scottish accent, I try to speak more slowly and
clearly than usual, certainly not raising my voice.

Five: Don't be too structured.

You should allow some time just to wander around, enjoy a
leisurely lunch. You do have to plan an itinerary, or you can
just waste a lot of time, but it doesn't have to be written in
stone! Allow yourself the opportunity to be spontaneous.

Six: Don't just stick to tourist traps.

Try to visit some authentic local restaurants, markets,
villages, etc. where you will meet local people, rather than
just other tourists. Surely part of the reason for going abroad
it to experience at least a little of the local flavour, not
just spend all your time with other tourists.

Seven: Book your accommodation in advance.

This may mean that you miss out on a charming establishment you
come across in your travels, (you could always stay there on
your another trip). However it will mean that you don't waste
precious time going from hotel to hotel trying to find a room,
having to arrive early enough at your next destination to look
for accommodation. I am not even convinced that you save money
by last minute searches.

About the author:
Karen is a travel consultant and writer, specialising in travel
in Europe. Her site is www.europealacarte.co.uk.