If you have ever taken a vacation and felt that there was not enough time to quench your thirst for travel, an extended European trip might be what you’re looking for in a getaway. Europe is the perfect continent to spend an extended amount of time exploring. The varied geographical landscape, various transportation options between regions, and close proximity of so many different countries make this area an ideal place for a long vacation. Here are some things you need to know before you take off on your epic European adventure.
It’s Absolutely Worth It!
With a continent as vast and diverse as Europe, you do not want to shortchange your time in this exciting region of the world. Planning a trip of at least a few weeks will give you the time and flexibility to see a variety of places. You’ll also want to build some looseness into your travel itinerary so that you can spontaneously satisfy your wanderlust. You won’t regret giving yourself plenty of time to be immersed in what this corner of the globe has to offer.
Pack Wisely
One of the greatest joys of an extended European vacation is the freedom that it provides to indulge your travel whims while exploring. In order to take advantage of this flexibility, you need to pack wisely for your trip. Stick to neutral colors that you can mix and match so that you have versatility in your wardrobe. It is also a good idea to pack items that can be layered or dressed up or down depending on the occasion. You’ll want to bring along clothes that don’t wrinkle easily, and choosing lodging accommodations with laundry facilities will allow you to travel more lightly. You’ll be walking a lot, so remember to wear comfortable shoes.
Consider Food
Your food and drink costs can add up when traveling on an extended trip. Unless you’re on an unlimited budget, you are going to want to research ways in which you can cut your food costs. The key to saving money is to eat like a local. Shopping at local markets and piecing together your own meals is a fun way to embrace the culture and give your wallet a break at the same time. When eating out, be sure to avoid the touristy areas and focus on those restaurants that are off the beaten path. Not only will you save money, but you will also have a more authentic dining experience.
Travel Insurance Is a Necessity
When taking an extended vacation, it is absolutely essential that you purchase adequate travel insurance. With so much time and money on the line, you are going to want to make sure that you are protected from potential delays and cancellations. Contact your medical insurance company well before the trip and ask them some very pointed questions about your coverage overseas. You do not want to be stuck in a precarious situation without the medical coverage that you need.
Spending time abroad will expand your horizons. You’ll soak up history and culture, see and try new things and discover how other people live. It’s also an opportunity to improve your foreign language skills. In short, it’s an adventure, and the longer an adventure lasts, the better. Just take these tips into consideration before you go. They’ll make the road a little smoother.
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