Hi Friends,

If you are a seasonedtraveler or preparing for your first European adventure these tips might behelpful.

1.    Be flexible! Even if you are a highly activetraveler, not every detail needs to be figured out in advance.  You will likely change your mind when you arethere.  It is great to research inadvance activities, tours, and restaurants so you are prepared with a list ofideas and options.  

2.    Packing can be tricky because you wanteverything you need.  You can always buythings when you are there, but it can be a pain and waste a lot of timeshopping for a necessity when you really want to be experiencing the culture.

a.    3 pairs of shoes!  Travel day slip on shoes, dress shoes andwalking shoes or boots.

b.    Binoculars

c.     Sanitizing wipes and gel for hands and everything,you will be in airplanes and all kinds of places where sanitizing wipes may beneeded.

d.    Lightweight backpack, small purse to wearunder your jacket to keep your money and credit card out of sight.  The weather apps are not reliable it isalways a good idea to have a jacket and umbrella in your backpack.

e.    Power converter, a universal travel adaptor.One with USB ports is nice.  Be sure tocheck the voltage requirements for your hair dryers, computers etc.

f.      Money – whatever the currency is where you aregoing.  The Euro, Czech Koruna, Romanianleu, etc be sure to change your money in the US!  Get small denominations for tipping, toilets,etc.  Surprisingly many small businessesdo not accept credit cards and there may be fees associated with ATMS.   Make sure you check in advance that yourcredit card does not have a foreign transaction fee.

                                              i.     Taxes – VAT This can be a bit confusing.  Some businesses will provide everything youneed to get a tax refund at the airport. Some countries such as Iceland will require you to physically show theitems and receipts while others might just take the receipts.  Bottom line it is best to research in advanceso there aren’t any surprises at the airport. If you a big shopper like I am it could save you a lot of money.  I think it saved hundreds of dollars when Ibought a good amount of crystal in Prague.

https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/guide-vat-refund-visitors-eu_en

3.    Cell phone carriers may charge different feesfor international calls and texts.  Notifyyour carrier that your will be doing international travel and find the bestplan for you.

4.    For transportation familiarize yourself withyour country’s ride share programs such as Uber.  For example, in Norway Uber is a luxury andtaxis may be preferred.  Publictransportation options may be more affordable and efficient.  Google Maps are essential.

It can take a lot oftime and energy to book and prepare your travel plans, but Perfect Events byJan is always here to help you pull it all together.

XOXO

Happiness andjoy, 
Jan 

Let's talk about yourperfect wedding.

Contact us:630-689-8749

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