The idea of going to Europe was from the irresistible package deal at Travezoo – 999 dollars includes airfare and accommodation to Ireland. After I was told Ireland couldn't really represent Europe in terms of the culture and history, I changed my mind and decided to go to my dream destination – Provence, France. Using Provence as the center point, Bavaria German and Interlaken Switzerland were taken into the route. It was a unforgettable fun trip and I really had great time. What I put down here are my personal experiences and feelings from my own perspective. I am not going to take any responsibility on anything in my article that make you unhappy or the incorrect/inaccurate/outdated information :). However, your friendly comments are more than welcome!
Summary of the trip
Travel Date: 9/14/2012 -9/26/2012
Travel Route: Denver-Philadelphia-Brussels-
Trip Planning Reference: Rick Steves' Best In Europe
Hotel Booking: www.booking.com
Airline: US Airways
Europe Railway Pass: 5 days 3 countries (6 days would have been a better option for our trip). To maximum the benefit of the EuRail Pass, it is better to select a hub to stay then the pass to travel around the surrounding areas. We ended up staying at different hotel every day so mostly of the days, we only used the pass to travel from one place to another place - kind of a waste. But using the pass did save us some time and gave us much comfortable first class seating. Do keep in mind there are many routes require reservation, which means extra expenses and efforts. During the time we traveled, I personally don’t think the reservation was necessary but I believe it could be a complete different story during the peak season. One more thing, don't forget to validate the pass at any ticket office/counter before you start using it.
Luggage: 1 carry-on and 1 day trip backpack. It is always a good idea to pack light!
Clothing: layers are highly recommended. T-shirt and Jeans for mostly of the time but sweater and jacket (waterproof jacket is very useful, otherwise umbrella) were essential at night in the mountain area, e.g. Interlaken.
Currency: EURO, Swiss Franc
Cash: Keep it minimal to pay for small items only
Credit Card: Visa card without foreign transaction fee. Ask to be charged in the local currency
Paper Map: Not necessary. Free maps are easily attained at the local tourist offices and hotels. However, you do need to know how to get to the tourist office or hotel first. You can easily download maps to the smart phone or Ipad from the websites.
Most helpful resource: Tourist offices and hotel front desk
Phone: smart phone with international text message package. Used Skype for free phone calls
WiFi: most hotels/Hostels provide free WiFi. The most expensive WiFi we paid was 9 Euro for 12 hours in Ulm.
Must have item: Power Adapter Converter for all electronics you own
Taxi: the charge is usually a flat rate within the city area. Otherwise it will be calculated with a fee meter in the car.
Tips: Not necessary unless you really like the service. Taxes are included in the price although you would see the break down on the receipt. It usually takes longer to be served at the restaurants because of the no-tip tradition?
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