Planning a trip can be a tedious undertaking. You have to ensure that you have the latest information and that the information you are getting is real and reliable, not biased at all. Whether you are travelling to a nearby region within Europe or are coming from some place far away, you are certainly going to benefit from this tips and ideas on how to make the entire process more fun.
1. Off-season bargains
Some of the best times where there are numerous offers are generally after the rush for Christmas and New Year. There are numerous deals as this translates to an off-peak season. Flights are cheaper and that hotel you have been yearning to stay in but could not initially afford is now within your grasp. A great idea is to take advantage of the January spiral as most tour operators suspend their deal during the rush hours, but revive them around mid January. Snagging a deal during this period is a breeze as it’s like shooting fish in a barrel.
2. Get a Schengen Visa
Getting a European tourist visa in some instances may be the most complicated and difficult task during planning for a trip. This is common mostly in people who are located outside USA, UK, Australia and Canada. Fortunately when you are intending to travel to several countries during your trip you apply for a Schengen Visa, which assist you during you particularly visit West Europe and a couple regions in Eastern Europe. In order to attain this Visa, all you need to do is to show a confirmed flight and hotel booking receipt.
3. Stick to a budget
Once you have an idea on the current going price for your flights, taxi and hotel(s) during your travel period, it is time to come up with a fixed budget for the entire trip. During this stage, you need to set aside the costs for your flight, visa, rail/road pass. You should also set aside a daily budget catering for the entire duration during your stay, this should include: accommodation, meals and fees for sightseeing. Having a budget is of importance as it is very easy to spend a fortune during your trip.
4. Be careful
Always keep in mind the location of your luggage, and ensure that your most valuable commodities such as your passport and visa are always near you. For the ladies, be keen as to always keep your purse or handbag close to you as you move around the cities. Another thing to observe is to avoid is if possible, do not use bags with zippers as this may in turn offers easy access to your property to thieves.
5. Use technology
Having applications on your smart phone, iPhone or iPad such as 24/7 weather application come in handy. Such an application may save your lives as you get real life updates of the weather. You get warning on torrential rains, tornadoes and at times earthquakes. Another great application is E-tracking. This application alerts you on any changes concerning your flight plans via email. This allows you to put in place necessary measures and changes. You could also chance your arm with a gamble with technology by visiting http://sports.williamhill.com/bet/en-gb/events/cheltenham-ladies-day on Cheltenham Ladies Day, amongst other important sporting occasions.
6. Avoid the skies
A great way to save money and to see a little more of the countryside on your travels around Europe is to avoid flying and instead avail of the numerous bus, train and ferry services. Interrailing is an especially popular and cost effective way to get around the continent. Ferries are and a great option if you’re traveling between England and France. For more info, click here for ferries from Dover to Calais.
7. Change your currency
This is particularly necessary if you are visiting Europe from outside countries. There have been cases of visitors who have been stranded in the airport not due to lack of cash but rather because the currency is not usable in the country. So before boarding that aircraft ensure that you have the suitable currency.
8. Double check everything
Check whether your passport is still valid. Ensure that your visa is right and all your bookings are in check. With current technology, you may do this within the comfort of your home. If you have used a travel agent, call them prior to confirm all the necessary bookings. The last thing you need is a disappointment which leaves you and your family in a foreign land.
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