Beth Anderson

Hi, <BR> <BR>Bette, you are so right girlfriend! something I learned REALLY early on - even if you do not "need" it - take advantage of the clean restrooms, always. You can always at least neaten up & rinse off some of the "road dust" from your face and hands (some of the bigger cities can seem rather sooty or something, after a while...) <BR> <BR>I would also second the journal idea - but I would take it each time! I usually buy one of those college-ruled-writing-spiral-bound-botebooks-with-pockets - they are excellent, all the writing space you need, and you have a place to store those odds & ends you pick up - brochures from the TI Office, wine price lists from the wineries, you get the picture. You might also be the sort who likes to save ticket stubs (I do, sometimes - they end up on a corkboard...) I don't just use my to jot down experiences - I buy mine well in advance of my trip & start off by taking notes I have gleaned from various places - they all go in that notebook. websites, tips, offbeat ideas, etc. when the trip is over you have a nice memory book and something to refer to for later trips. (when you realize that darn, you didn't have time to take that hot air balloon ride, you at least know where to find the place for the next time...) <BR> <BR>another good tip, if you have the time - try to make a point to hit the tourist info office before you hit the streets (especially more so in the smaller towns). They have a wealth of info, typically have good street maps (nice for walking tours) and also might point out attractions you would not know about, especially if it is a really small town and it is an unplanned stop... it seems that just about every little town over there has one!

Robin

I want to second Howard's suggestion to explore as if you're coming back. Especially if it's somewhere you've always wanted to go, you probably WILL love it, so it will reduce pressure considerably if you get rid of the idea that you have to do everything (and do it right!)this time. Note the wonderful restaurant that you can't get reservations for, the market that you arrive at fifteen minutes before closing, the museum that's having a strike... and start planning the next one. It's a different type of travel flexibility that works wonders.

elvira

Assume that nothing will be "like at home", and be really glad it's not.

elaine

Here is one hint I'll pass around about cameras and film. I have a small camera that I love. It is basically a point-and-shoot, although it does have a 35-70mm zoom feature that comes in very handy for closeups. I always buy more film in the U.S. than I think I need, and I always end up using it all. Film is expensive in Europe, but it is available. Before I go I take the film out of the boxes and mark each plastic canister with a number (scotch tape <BR>and a magic marker work fine). I use the film in numerical order, and when I finish a roll I put it back in its numbered canister. When I take my pictures in for developing at home, I mark the roll number somewhere on the film envelope, just for my own reference. That way when I get the pictures back, if I'm not sure what I'm seeing, I can remember it from the order in which I saw things by referring to the number of the roll. Since I also keep a travel diary, this also helps me match the pictures to what I did on a particular day. If you're planning on putting together an album, this is invaluable help. <BR>

Zack

Wow, you guys are a big help! Any more info is still appreciated, thanks soooo much!

steve

I have a small, collapsable bag which opens up to become a small carry-on. I go on my trip with one carry on bag, but when I return I check the larger one and take the smaller one(then filled with purchases) on the plane with me. <BR>Totally agree with the "buy it when you see it" mantra-several times I've tried to go back to find that certain item and can never find the shop again.

Kari

We are soon going to Germany...Munich and Heidelberg. Can anyone give me advice about tipping, paying the check as soon as they present it, etc.? Thanks!

Beth Anderson

Hi, <BR> <BR>This is not my BEST travel tip, but I thought I would throw it out there anyway: <BR> <BR>wear the heavier/bulkier pieces of clothing you are taking, on the plane (both ways if you can). <BR> <BR>In other words, if you are taking hiking boots - don't pack 'em, wear 'em while traveling & save the little sandals/sneaks for your luggage. if you are taking one of those mondo huge champion sweatshirts which fold up into a nice bulky 2 foot by 2 foot package - wear that or at least tie it over your shoulders for the plane ride. <BR> <BR>this might seem too obvious to post, but I will say luggage seems lighter when you are wearing it versus carrying it. (plus those sorts of things take up way too much room in a pack/suitcase, IMHO.) <BR> <BR>another thing - this might peg me instantly as El Dorko among some of you - but I do find that hiking boots (the *good* ones - not the ones which are only a fashion statement) are a good compromise for footwear. To me, they look a lot better with walking shorts than a pair of Nikes, and they also go well with jeans. Good ankle/arch support too. <BR> <BR>Even in summer, they are a good bet. They are waterproof (if it rains, you surely aren't going to sit in your hotel room and grouse about it are you? take footwear which will keep you dry!) and I really didn't ever feel too "hot" to wear them with shorts in the summer. <BR> <BR>have fun! <BR> <BR>

Mary Ann

I had to smile in reading the posts, because each one is so right for traveling. Here are a few I did not see: <BR>1. Bath & Body Shop condensed room freshener. About the size of a travel hair spray. Although every place we stayed was clean, sometimes plumbing (so old) or people need some help. <BR>2. Shout Spots -especially when wine tasting in a cave, so easy to carry. <BR>3. Newspaper bags for shoes. We all try to limit how many shoes we take, but it becomes tough if you need evening, walking and maybe sandals. If your newspaper comes in a bag, they are a great size and you can clearly see which shoes. <BR>4. Before we leave home, we get a list of cyber cafes in cities we are planning to visit for a quick reference to keep in touch. <BR>5. Pre print postcard labels for each person (including the number you plan to send that person). It will save time and you will not worry you forgot an address or forgot to sent to someone. <BR>When you peel off that last one, you're done! <BR>All the tips make me want to start packing. i just love the expandable carry ons!!!

julie cabral

Zack- everyone has given you great tips. Mine is of a more basic nature: Immodium. It can save your trip.Julie

stacey

Zack - Julie is exactly right! Pepto Bismal is a constant companion wherever I go. They come in chewables or tablets and absolutely can save the day. <BR>Also, don't forget that a lot of European money is 'change' as opposed to bills. Plan for something to hold it in, it can get very loud (and heavy) rattling around loose in your pockets.

Thyra

Hi Zack, so much great advice and I agree with it all, but I will add my one most important tip. Bring along a small bottle of waterless hand sanitizer. Start using it the minute you get on the plane. Every time you touch a surface especially when using all the public transportation, you are exposing yourself to germs that the local population may have more resistance to. Nearly every person I know, including yours truly, has contracted some kind cold while overseas. Nothing puts a damper on your trip experience like feeling lousy.

Bets

Thyra's tip prompts me to ask a question: Does anyone have any tips for warding off germs from the plane's lousy air system? Someone once told me that you can help prevent cold germs, for example, by lubricating your nostrils with an edible oil, like olive or almond. I've contracted colds every time I've taken an overseas flight, but I'd rather not resort to the surgical mask just yet. Any advice? <BR> <BR>Oh, and my own best travel tip for Europe is to see what you really want to see, and not be put off by someone else thinking the lines are too long or the site's too touristy....If you're interested in the Leaning Tower of Pisa--see it! If you're longing to look at "Primavera"--get in line! Let your crabby companion(s) do their thing while you explore your interests. There are times in life when "too cool for school" can cost you a precious memory.

Bill

Save all your old hole-ee rat-ee underwear prior to going abroad. <BR>Then use them in Europe. I have pitched my dirty underwear in almost all the countries of Europe. I favor no country!! <BR>Your luggage gets lighter by the day! <BR>You could even use the extra space for things that you buy in Europe.

Thyra

Bets, I saw a television documentary a few years ago, that stated nearly all germs on airplanes come from touching the surfaces and then touching your face. I choose to believe this because *knock on wood since we have been using the sanitizer we have been *double knock... triple knock* sickness free... <BR>However I have a hard time buying that really because I know that airlines don't circulate the air properly and I remember being on an American Airlines flight seated next to a man who must have been suffering from the worst most nasty cold in history! All the time I kept longing to put a scarf over my mouth to "prevent his germs" from attacking me. I also would love to know if anyone has a trick or some inside knowledge to protect oneself from air borne beasties on airplanes.

Al

Yes, we can help with the airborne germs problem. 1) Drink lots of water aboard the plane--take along a bottle. Keeps you hydrated, keeps the mucous tissues of your mouth, nose, and throat moist and thus less of a bed for germs; 2) use Purell or any other waterless hand cleanser; 3) take off your shoes, roll away from those who have colds, pretend to sleep or wear earphones. Don't face them. Avoid their breath and their sneeze-spray. We've traveled the world and have had good luck with the dry air within airliners' cabins. Sometimes all that sneezing results from allergies and tension. Sometimes it's nasal dryness. It helps to have good luck, too!

dodi

Take your smile, your best manners and remember to not be so loud!! lol

Debbie

Concerning the germ issue-best tip is to drink lots of water BUT be sure and take some type of decongestant before you board(no antihistimine) such as Drixoral 12 hour,Tussin gelcaps or Sudafed to keep your nasal passages open. Trust me-this always works.Your arrive in your destination not feeling like you have a cold,stuffed ears,etc. If you take a decongestant only/no drowsy formula you will have no problems!Other obvious tips on the plane-don't walk around in just your socks or barefoot(floors have interesting bacteria and germs? ) and wash your hands every time you can.Order an orange juice occasionally for the vitamin C. Have a nice flight! Debbie

Bets

OK, gang--I'm taking your advice to heart. I've got my Sudafed, a big ole bottle of water, and some Purell. My flight's this week; I'm ready to see if I get can to (or from) Europe without bringing back a head cold as a souvenir. Thanks for all the good tips. I'm keeping my fingers crossed (and sanitized)....

steve

1. Flents Wax Ear Plugs - especially if you are into cheaper hotels in big (noisy) cities. <BR> <BR>2. Don't just take ratty underwear to toss, take any old clothes you have. On my recent trip, I tossed 3 pair of pants, 4 shirts, 4 pr underwear, 3 pr socks, and one pair shoes! <BR> <BR>3. If you want something, buy it. My travelling companion thought he could save a buck or two on a CD of Irish songs, so he didn't buy it at an isolated tourist shop - he couldn't find it again, even in Dublin. He had to settle for one he didn't like as well. <BR> <BR>4. Diarrhea can be a big problem, but so can constipation. Take some Metamucil (or capsules of Psyllium) <BR> <BR>5. If you've given up sweets for Lent, don't schedule a trip for then