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Europe Deconstructed (113)
Europe Deconstructed is a great resource for first time European travelers. Consider bookmarking this page!

European Travel Tips:

Europeans do not measure time by a.m. p.m., they recognize the 24-hour clock which is also used by the U.S. military.
It's a good idea to learn how to say the following phrases in the language of the country you are visiting:
- "Do you speak English?"
- "Where is the ____?"
- "Please."
- "Thank you."
- "Hello."
- "Goodbye."
Avoid traveling during August.
Most Europeans are on holiday and are not as readily available to accommodate tourists.
Bring clothes that are a tad bit more dressy.
Some hotels require a tie and many cathedrals frown on wearing shorts.
Check for U.S. travel advisories

Planning the European Trip:

Consider traveling by yourself or with a small group.
Organize your trip around a theme like history, food, wine or theater.
Or, start in larger more western cities and work your way to the countryside.
When traveling around Europe, it's wise to take planes between countries and trains within countries.
- In Greece and Turkey railroads aren't developed to be a good option.
- England's bus system is better and less expensive than the trains.

Currency:

ATM's are the best way to get money, offering the most competitive exchange rates.
Many countries add a value-added tax of 25% to most goods; however, you may be able to receive a refund of this tax by filling out paperwork. See Global Refund for more information.
European Currency
The Euro

Safety Smarts:

Use good common sense.
Keep your eyes open.
Try not to call attention to yourself.
Carry money and credit cards in your front pocket or carry your purse over your shoulder.
If you plan to drive, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP), available through AAA.
Check with your car insurance company about International coverage.

Health Smarts:

Apprise your doctor of your travels to see if he or she recommends any necessary vaccinations. A list of health precautions is provided by the Centers for Disease Control for different countries including:
- Eastern Europe
- Western Europe
Check with your insurance company about coverage before you travel.
Refill prescriptions before you travel and check for restrictions, e.g., Codeine is banned in Greece.

Jet Lag Tips:

The faster you get on local time the better you will feel.
Try to arrive in the morning and stay up until at least 8 p.m. sans a lot of caffeine.
Choose activities that keep you moving on this day.

Resources:

Books:

Lonely Planet Read this First: Europe
by Paul Harding

Fodor's Upclose France
by Donna Cornachio (Editor)

Fodor's Upclose Italy
by Nancy Van Itallie (Editor)

Places to Stay:

George V
31, avenue George V
Paris, 75008 France
33 1 49 52 7000
www.FourSeasons.com/Paris

Attractions:

Buckingham Palace
London SW1A 1AA
www.royal.gov.uk