Europe is that continent we all want to visit at least once. Its history, culture, and landscapes, blending past and present, have an almost irresistible appeal to anyone who loves to travel. But like any place, it's always necessary to know beforehand, even if it's just a few travel tips, especially if it's your first time visiting Europe.
Beyond the country you've chosen for your school trip, there are basic notions that apply to the entire continent and it's good to know them to approach the journey with greater confidence. These kinds of experiences may only be lived once and they will begin to shape your future, so it's important to undertake them with as much information as possible. These tips will help you travel through Europe for the first time much more confidently and safely.
Destinations and duration of the trip
These two topics go hand in hand: based on how much time we plan to stay and the amount of free time we have, we will decide how many places to visit. A normal proportion is to dedicate four days to each city you want to explore. If you have less time, it's ideal to inform yourself well about what you shouldn't miss and focus on those places.
The time of year also influences the trip. For example, January and February are very cold months for cities like Berlin, London, Paris, or Amsterdam, and July and August are extremely hot in Madrid and Rome. The ideal is to travel during an intermediate season; April/May or October/November.
Internal mobility
Europe has a relatively small territory where many countries with different traditions, customs, and histories are concentrated. Seeing such diversity in America would take three times as long, simply because of the time it would take to travel from one country to another. For the same reason and because of the integrative impact of the United Europe project, countries are connected by all possible means of transportation: impeccable roads, comfortable, modern, and fast trains, and round-the-clock air bridges.
In terms of trains, the continent enjoys an enviable network. Open packages are available that allow you to visit a wide variety of destinations, always about the weight you want to give to each of the visited cities.
The great advantage of the train is that it takes you to the city center but it is proportionally more expensive than "low-cost" airlines and if you travel at night, the ticket becomes more expensive as it replaces a hotel.
Low-cost airlines are ideal for speeding up the trip and also, as their name suggests, for paying very competitive transfer prices. However, airports are generally far from the city center and what you save on the ticket is lost in moving to the city.
For those traveling by train, bus, or plane, internally the cities of Europe have developed a spectacular public transportation system that mixes urban trains, subways, and buses. They all have very convenient passes that combine all the possibilities and allow you to get off one mode of transport and onto another with the same pass.
Enriching cultural experience
Exploring the cultural richness of Europe is an essential part of any trip. Dedicate time to learn about local traditions, try typical cuisine, and participate in festivals or cultural events. This cultural immersion not only enriches your trip but also allows you to connect more deeply with each place you visit.
Remember that a very important part of a school trip is to learn about the history and customs of the place you visit. Immersing yourself in the everyday life of your new city will make the experience a thousand times more enriching.
Don't make too many plans
Traveling to Europe for the first time is very exciting, and you'll want to visit as many places as you can. The Old Continent is indeed full of many destinations that are must-sees, but it's still better not to try to see everything in one trip, especially if you won't have much free time.
Europe is very large, and each country is so different that even if you stayed in one city, it would give you plenty to see and do. Take your time, you can always come back another time.
Public restrooms
In Europe, it's normal to pay to use public restrooms. Prices usually range between €0.50 and €1.50, with Venice being the most expensive place to use them (€1.50).
Not only will you have to pay for public restrooms, but also for restrooms in places like McDonald's, for example, with a price of 50 cents usually and constantly monitored by an employee. In many other places, going to the bathroom is conditioned on purchasing a return.
Some large cities, such as Paris and London, have coin-operated WCs on street corners. After you insert the money, the door opens, and you have 15 minutes of toilet use. After you leave, the chamber disinfects itself.
Local language
Knowing at least how to say "thank you", "please", "yes", "no", and "I'm sorry" can be crucial and can help people understand you and be more willing to talk to you. There are some countries, like France, that respect their language so much that they won't use another, not even English.
Nowadays, it's easy to use translation apps and have the Internet everywhere, even in public spaces, so make sure you have them.
Take photos, eat local food, and take a break to have a coffee. Document all your travels with photos and videos to share with family and friends. These memories are priceless, and you'll enjoy them more as the years go by, thus fueling your thirst for travel.
While in Europe, focus on living each moment to the fullest, you should feel like a resident, imitate their customs, respect their values, and savor their cuisine. Don't leave anything of what you most desire undone. Think of this trip as an unforgettable experience and that's how you should live it.
