20 Things That May Surprise Americans When Visiting Europe
Wanting to visit somewhere in Europe? This is a fun and informational episode to help you get ready for an amazing trip with a few key tips!
Europe has so many amazing countries with endless experiences for you to enjoy. This week I want to share some general tips for visiting European countries, while helping you be prepared to go explore!
Hotels/Airbnb
Accommodations tend to be smaller than U.S. options. It can sometimes be difficult to find rooms with multiple beds. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but just something to think about if you are traveling with a family.
Bathrooms usually don’t have outlets. You’ll typically need to blow dry, curl, or style your hair in the main room. Make sure that the blow dryer is the correct voltage for the country (often hotels will provide one).
Food
Dining is much slower all over Europe. Servers will not hurry you and you will spend a long time at restaurants.
Don’t be concerned if you go long breaks without seeing your server. This is totally normal.
Take this meal time to relax! If you go into it with the mindset of relaxing and connecting with your group, it will be more enjoyable.
When you are ready to leave, you will typically need to ask for your bill.
Generally, dinner dining times are much later than the U.S. I’m talking about dinner starting at 8 or 9 PM.
If you go earlier, there might be less of a wait.
Most European countries don’t serve ice with their drinks. You will have to ask for it if you want it, and even then they might not have any.
If you really need ice, McDonald’s is a great place to go.
The food quality in Europe is superior to U.S. food! It really is so amazing. Savor it!
Restrooms
Be aware that public toilets typically cost a Euro or so. I like to have some coins on hand for this reason.
If you pay admission to a museum or other venue, there should be public restrooms available.
Restaurants also have bathrooms, but for customers only.
Public transportation
Our family LOVES public transportation in Europe! It is so easy to use and fairly inexpensive.
All you have to do is put your destination on Google Maps and it will tell you how to use public transportation to get there.
Google Maps is so smart! It knows which train, bus, or metro lines you will need to take.
You can also take trains between countries! It’s so easy to see new countries via train.
Most European cities are very walkable. Our family loves the walking we get to do!
Laundry
When washers and dryers are available, they are very small. Just be aware of this if you’ll be doing laundry.
I like to bring laundry sheets with me since they are super packable.
Our family likes to pack super light and do laundry throughout the trip. For this reason, I like to look for Airbnbs with a washer.
There are not very many dryers in Europe. Just be aware that you’ll probably have to air dry your clothes.
The People
Our family has had amazing experiences with Europeans. Everyone has always been so kind, understanding, and helpful.
For example, the unkind French stereotype has never been true for us.
Don’t be afraid to ask for directions or suggestions of things to do!
Most people in Western Europe speak English! They are so culturally aware and willing to help.
Culture
Every country in Europe has its own unique culture and people.
They have their own foods! We love visiting grocery stores and trying local cuisine.
Every country has its own traditions, landscapes, and mannerisms. Europe is such an amazing place to visit and see so many walks of life in such close proximity.