10 Tourist Mistakes to Avoid in EUROPE | Things to Know Before You Visit Europe

Planning a trip to Europe? Avoid these 10 common Europe Travel Mistakes that could cost you money, waste your time, and even make you look rude without even realizing it!
If you've ever had questions about how to get cash to pay for things (without being scammed), navigate the language barrier, or use the right transportation in Europe, this video is for you. Discover how to save money, have a more authentic local experience, and make the most of your European adventure. Don't miss out on these essential travel tips before you visit Europe!
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⏰ Timecodes ⏰
0:00 Don't Make These Europe Travel Mistakes
1:00 Mistake #1: How to Get Cash in Europe
3:05 Mistake #2: Not Attempting to Learn Language
5:17 Use Google Translate
5:37 Mistake #3: Not Using Europe's Public Transportation
7:00 Mistake #4: Overstuffing Your Europe Travel Itinerary
9:04 Mistake #5: Not Planning Enough
10:37 Mistake #6: Not Expecting Cultural Differences
12:07 Mistake #7: Not Researching European Customs and Norms
12:24 Tipping in Europe
13:53 Mistake #8: Assuming Europeans are Rude
15:18 Mistake #9: Not Leveraging Local Europe Travel Guides
16:45 Mistake #10: Bringing the Wrong Kind of Bag for Europe

[@dimitrinastoycheva3147]

I am a Bulgarian, we have amazing food and nature, and we are always kind and helpful to tourists :) So, if you haven't been here - don't miss it! :)

[@lynnleipold2617]

I’d love to!

[@denisebell5515]

I am planning another European trip for 2024 and haven't considered where yet but will consider Bulgaria.

[@llwil2003]

Heading there! Can’t wait!

[@manhahashim9769]

Will come there soon!

[@mgentgen]

I loved Varna. And Bulgaria has the best tomatoes I have ever eaten. Romania was a close 2nd.

[@LICENSETOGRILL]

Wow, spot on. Also control your volume! We were in a cafe having breakfast in Athens talking quietly and a group of eight women came in all trying to talk over each other. Our waiter rolled his eyes and actually apologized to us. Everywhere we have been in Europe the conversations are much more muted and not like eating in a Fridays

[@R0swell5104]

I have met quite a few American tourists and I can honestly say that not one of them was rude or arrogant in any way. Just one thing, and it may sound ridiculous to you but please don't ware your hat or cap indoors and certainly not at the dining table as it's considered very rude.

[@MR-or6yv]

It was considered rude here, as well, until recent years. I'm not sure when it changed, exactly, but you do see it now (in casual places, at least). When I was a kid... never.

[@plentinough7222]

Agreed and yes what happened?

[@debrawoodings4498]

​

[@chelaamador3879]

Is good to know, I have a friend he is 82 years old and he likes to were a hat . I never see him with out.he is very nice man. My fiend invite him for her wedding and she told him Not to were a hat.

[@R0swell5104]

​@@chelaamador3879Yes I can understand why especially if he habitually wares it indoors or at the dining table. Lots of people still find it disrespectful and off-putting whilst they are eating.

[@mares81]

I am from Greece and I think American people are probably the best tourists Very kind and smiley people. Thank you😊

[@patchan6625]

I’m a Singaporean living in Italy, totally agrees with ‘Humility and us being guests’, I guess the bottom line is Respect begets respect.

[@aminor7476]

I have learned that a bank’s ATM inside a bank is safer than any, ATM outside! There are lots of scams with ATMs not in a secure location, like a bank office.

[@hankl1118]

Using local greetings and short sentences are key signs of humility and respect, and it's phenomenal what you will achieve by doing so!

[@fsetor1]

As Europeans (Irish) our experience of US visitors both to our country and the numerous ones we visit is overwhelmingly positive. The only issue is the speaking volume - The times I had to put on noise cancelling headphones while reading to help drown out a conversation from several rows behind me on the trains is still fresh in my mind from our most recent trip

[@lisaalexander450]

Frank, thanks so much for this reminder! I am on my way to Ireland for the first time, and I'll be sure not to get too carried away with my voice, even though I'm super excited! Cheers!

[@stevemathis3092]

WHAT??? I can't hear you because you're whispering!😊

[@jo-vf8jx]

I have the same problem and I live and am from the USA

[@davidmccormack99]

Agreed. In the most part, visitors from the US are very warmly received here, but speaking volume is one thing that almost universally irritates people here in Ireland and in the UK. Unlike other harmless cultural differences (e.g. transferring the fork to your right hand) this one does have the ability to cause upset.

[@cleopatrabonz]

@@davidmccormack99…If European folks have an issue with how you use your utensils when you eat, then they need to get a life. Americans don’t care when they eat in a restaurant here or how they eat.

[@heatherfruin5050]

I don't mind paying for ice or going to the toilet. What puts me off going to the US is the tipping culture. It's a pity US employers don't have to pay employees a living wage. I'm Australian. Thanks so much for your advice. Great video.😊

[@515aleon]

I agree, I think our system in the US is not fair to people who really work hard.

[@TheSoaphippo]

Tipping culture gives a better service when you get a quality server, had very few hourly servers that compare to tipped servers

[@Obfluss.S]

​​​​​@@TheSoaphippo ever been to Japan or any other countries that don't have a tipping culture? Are they all rude to you? I would argue hospitality voluntarily displayed when living wages are provided is much more geniue than the service you try to buy.

[@florencealidu1530]

I'm from England and paying for ice sounds luicrous. Curious to know what countries charge for ice?

[@aidanmays7825]

​​@@Obfluss.SYeah but the Japanese culture is very different from America. Trust me. In a lot of places the promise of a tip is the only thing keeping some people civil

[@georginajennie7563]

It drives me nuts when Americans don’t change to the local currency and think that all countries should accept American dollars.

[@Monica-vm3dm]

HUMILITY! We've traveled all over Europe over 25 years, and have never had any hostility towards us as Americans. Nik's advice is on point!

[@wd1598]

Well said

[@leslie-annepepin8927]

What bothers me is Americans using Canadian flags on their backpacks so they aren’t identified as Americans. And usually those are the ones that give a bad name. As a Canadian it ticks me off. And good tip, leave your arrogance at home and everyone will have a better trip.

[@garywilliams8870]

@@leslie-annepepin8927 Agree. That also ticks me off, as an American. If one is American, own it, for better or for worse, and don't pretend to be anything else. And I'll go a step further and say that if one is arrogant, don't just leave it at home, but change your attitude both at home and abroad, full stop. That goes for everyone, no matter where you're from.

[@RedwoodGeorge]

Learning the local culture and customs is a big, big step toward having a better experience. A colleague of my is French and before my first trip to Europe, she told me that it's basic courtesy to say hello ("bonjour") to the shopkeeper when you enter the shop. It's actually rude to ignore them and just walk in and start browsing. It actually makes sense, you're elevating them from being a servant to being a peer by recognizing them and saying hello. I did this every time I walked in a store and got a pleasant "bonjour" back. I'm sure they're used to American tourists not saying hello but they appreciate it when you make the effort.

[@richard_ager]

Hi Nik, just pointing out that you don't pay for water in a French restaurant if you simply want tap-water. Ask for "une carafe d'eau" (a jug of (tap) water). Pronounce "d'eau" like "dough" that is used to make bread!

[@awaytogether]

Another CLUTCH phrase to learn in any language. Great point. I try to always do this. And usually, unless we're in a touristy area, it works!

[@richard_ager]

@@awaytogether Forgot to say that you should finish off the sentence with "s'il vous plait" which means "please" and is pronounced "see-voo-play". The French would think you're rude, or at least abrupt, if you omit it.

[@claudiaphillips7063]

You can ask for tap water in the UK too. It’s free.

[@rsaya3048]

You hit the nail on embracing new experiences and unique differences l. I hear Americans all too often missing the whole point of travel and beauty of a country by comparing it to their home town. I feel sorry for people like that. They’re missing out!

[@jandamskier6510]

And stay away

[@AnaSanchez-dc2gi]

Typical Americans 😂

[@johnweddel687]

I have heard "It's not like that at home'. .....then why did you travel if you don't want new experiences?!?!

[@aszechy]

Hungarian here, I live and work in the center of Budapest, so I encounter many tourists daily and have also worked occasionally as a guide. I have absolutely nothing against Americans - they are generally very friendly and while they might not know too much about my country they usually seem genuinely interested to learn which for me is a big plus. Most of the tips in this video are spot-on. Regarding the currency, proper, bank-affiliated ATMs will charge a withdrawal fee but will give you a good exchange rate, whereas at change booths, the rate will be worse but there is no one-off charge. So try to get by with one or two large ATM withdrawals and use the exchange booths for small amounts if you miscalculated things and need just a bit more cash. A big yes to the public transport as well, and I would like to add: don't limit yourself to the metro! The metro will definitely be the best option in Paris or London where there are dozens of metro lines and the surface traffic is horrible. But in Budapest and many other Central-European cities, we have trams that also avoid traffic and are much more dense than the metro network, and some will even be a great sightseeing experience. (Buses are of course also an option.) So you're making a big mistake if you try to go everywhere by metro just because you don't want to bother figuring out the other options. The only thing in the video I actually disagree with is the usefulness of learning the language basics. While I certainly appreciate the intent, and it might be a fun thing to do anyway, learing to say hello or sorry in the native language will have zero practical added value - these things can be understood from the context and for anything more complex you will need to find an English speaker anyway (which is not difficult to do in any big city in Europe). Oh, and about the water: while they certainly won't give you any free mineral water in restaurants in Europe, you're perfectly entitled to ask for tap water (which in the vast majority of Europe is perfectly fine to drink). They don't advertise it, and you might even get a disapproving look from less polite waiters, but they can't really say no. I've decided to stop paying for mineral water I don't need years ago and never have problems with this - you just have to work up the nerve to ask. Although, on second thought, this might not be an option for Americans who are generally not willing to drink anything that's above freezing point, even in winter 😅

[@johnmacali4236]

I am an American and really enjoyed reading your comments. I lived in Paris for almost 25 years. I traveled all over Western, and Eastern, Europe. Your last comment about us Americans drinking cold beverages at almost freezing kevels even in winter amused me so much that I couldn't stop laughing because it is so true. Thank you for making me laugh at myself and other fellow Americans.

[@sarahfisher3217]

Another American here, I also laughed out loud at the last sentence!! My roommate requires the ice bucket in the freezer to be filled at all times (I'm far more tolerant of room temperature beverages). Good tip re the water. I tend to prefer tap to mineral in general, so this is information I will definitely use. Thank you for the info!

[@david.janovsky]

As a Czech citizen (living in Prague) I fully agree with you comment regarding public transportation in our cities. Our metro systems are very good but this is not the only option. Trams in both cities (Budapest & Prague) are also on the high level and offer probably the best way how to see, discover and meet the city.

[@sonjagatto9981]

@@johnmacali4236 I am smiling with you. I am German living in Canada...same here! I don't get it. Mostly to cold for me...but I drink it. 😉Cheers❣

[@labtechsuperstar]

I cheered when Nik mentioned Pimsleur! I swear by that program. Not only do you learn important words and phrases, but you learn great pronunciation. I took their course in Czech for a trip to Prague and people there thought I was Czech. I have taken their European Portuguese (which I will likely repeat) and currently doing their Spanish course for an upcoming trip to both Portugal and Spain. No, I'm not paid by them to say this, just a very happy customer. By trying to speak in the language of the place you're visiting, even if it's not very good, you will be treated so much better than someone who shouts and expects to be served in English.

[@lynnleipold2617]

I even did that with Romanian before we went there. The people appreciated it so much

[@Gabrielarmm]

Thanks for sharing that, I didn’t knew that app. Does it have a free option, please?

[@rockstarricci]

I third the Pimsleur comment! There’s so much repetition and real world examples it’s almost hard not to learn, and I get compliments on my pronunciation as well!

[@jaybey7940]

Completely agree about not over stuffing your itinerary. So tempting - for us to get to Europe from New Zealand where we live is such a big commitment but the best memories from a trip to Italy was of things we found while just wandering the streets. If you do book things it's a good idea to make them early in your day leaving the rest of the day with no timetable.

[@susanwestfall2051]

We always, whenever possible, make it a point to visit a local grocery store. It’s interesting to see what is different, and surprising to often see US brands there as well. We often take things back to our hotel room to try.

[@MR-or6yv]

I get a huge kick out of seeing American brands with local flavors. In Spain, the number and variety of "ham-flavored" potato chips from American companies was great! It was fun to try!

[@lynnleipold2617]

We’ve always done that too

[@joecesa]

Me too. I plan a picnic of some sort wherever I travel--a great experience. Another culture and maybe discovering another food I didn't know.

[@sandraankenbrand]

​@@MR-or6yv be aware - a lot of worldwide known brands are actually European 😊

[@lizlaughin7806]

Yes I stock up on chocolate and reusable bags they are serious about their reusable bags being cute in Europe ♻️ 🌎 I wish Americans used less plastic it's almost significant how much does not get recycled

[@kevlarcardhouse252]

I think the different restaurant/cafe/bar atmosphere also kind of contributes to the "Europeans are rude to Americans" myth. They are used to the North American way of doing things where restaurants want customers to eat quickly and leave so they can use the table again, and where staff are reliant on tips. When you grew up expecting everything being very quick and waiters being over-the-top in friendliness and chatter and are constantly asking you if you need anything, in Europe it can come off as bad service, slow, or cold and aloof.

[@awaytogether]

Totally agree! Now when I'm in a restaurant in the US, I always think "why are you coming to my table so much? Just let me eat!"

[@idnwiw]

Very true, and I'm missing another important tip here: We Europeans use our "inside voice" in lots of public places in order to not disturb people. American tourists who's conversation can be understood from the other end of the train compartment or the other end of the breakfast hall come across as rude, and are treated likewise. Best think off all those places as "like in the library" and you will fit in nicely.

[@sandraankenbrand]

In the US I get nervous when they constantly ask something... I have a full mouth and shall answer?

[@Rentheflower]

I’m from the US and I feel the same way, and asking for the check here always feels rude. Since the wait staff is working so hard and I don’t want to interrupt them. It’s part of why I like fast casual dinning where you order you food and then are served it at a table. So are restaurants super quiet? Something I struggle with in the US is that I have auditory sensitivity and usually find restaurants here so loud and the music is always deafening

[@ronv6637]

That is a highly refined talent to make sure someone has just taken a bite before asking if everything is okay. Hard to complain but if there is a problem no bite no questions

[@elena_a-2023]

This is so helpful! Thank you.

[@christineveals1639]

This is an excellent video! Thank you so much for all the great tips!

[@petergeorgerey]

Sir, your videos are awesome... thank you, and keep them coming.

[@UrbanMiller]

Great video man!!

[@elainejarvis1863]

one of our best experiences was in Barcelona, we walked into a local restaurant and asked the waiter to tell us what to eat it was fabulous. We tried all kinds of foods and wines we would not have thought to order and the waiter was so nice to us. Try the local cuisine!

[@karimaberrada5466]

I agree 💯. Great approach to the subject.

[@officeemail6196]

Having just finished my first Europe trip. I totally agree to whatever you said

[@1eurolatefee]

Being loud on a train is very annoying. In Japan, they don‘t like loud conversations neither.

[@chollypaderanga307]

Perfectly said Thank you heaps

[@againstallodds404]

Had to hit the replay n save. Ty for the money info

[@Keith_Aerotrunk]

Spot on - embracing new experiences and distinctive differences. 10 common travel mistakes that can be easily avoided. Great tips and very helpful. Keep that content coming.

[@etteluuap]

Agree!! Really good tips. Thank you :)

[@1221mediaent]

Love your words on virtue and respecting the country! Priceless!

[@Eric-Marsh]

You guys have some good stuff. I'm sharing this (and other's of your) videos in some Facebook groups.

[@jkrieger2595]

Couldn't have said it better. Thank you!

[@Toon81ehv]

Dutchman here - number 8 is absolutely SPOT ON. Just chill out and be a nice person (not the same as being polite!) and you'll be fine. It's like visiting someone else's house: if you try to keep your prejudices at bay and respect their house rules, you're probably going to have a good time and get along great. People know you're in a different country across the globe, so as long as you're making an effort, you'll find them willing to forgive what might technically be a faux pas otherwise.

[@frosenesacco9209]

Great philosophy and well presented information. Buon viaggio!

[@luke.warm.tea69]

love the part about humility, well said

[@rubasubei8924]

Love ur videos! Thanks 🙏🏻

[@marlev1973]

wow! Very interesting. I have listened to several of your vlogs and they are all full of interesting and relevant information. Thanks for the life lessons on how to be with the locals. I completely agree with you. I’m a french Canadian so I hope that my english traduction was ok. 😅THANKS

[@Ray__E]

Great tips and advice. I love the point you made about being humble and kind when visiting another country. Our family visited NY for the first time last year. I remember some people saying how "rude" New Yorkers were. That couldn't be further from the truth. We had a great experience and some of them even helped us out when we needed directions or wanted recommendations. Don't judge people or have a preconceived bias because of what others have said. We're taking a trip to Europe and Asia in a few months. We can't wait to embrace the local cultures, cuisines, etc...

[@dianamonroydecalle6295]

Your videos are amazing. Thank you! I’m planning to visit Europe in the next month. You are teaching more than tips to travel you are offering a positive message for the people to enjoy the life, be happy to have this great opportunities to travel and be kind and open to others.

[@thisisfareen]

🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 LOVE this. Thank you for the tips on currency - though the entire video is bang on.

[@1bestsellingauthor537]

We have watched a couple of your videos and YOU DO AWESOME!!! We also wanted to tell you, you hit the nail on the head about Americans or other tourists not embracing the cuture or the full experience of what a country has to offer. Being nice, smiling, being humble etc., We have seen so much entitlement when we travel......leave it at home. Thank you for your honesty as a whole in all your videos!!! We are subscribed!

[@sarahphilbricksandhage1443]

Great video! Lots of wonderful advice that I hope people heed. I like to do a lot of research and always study on Duolingo prior to my trip.

[@ellybea68]

Great advice!

[@wendy2269]

I haven’t traveled to anywhere but England, but I am planning to visit Europe in my retirement. Such great points from you! And your point about being humble sold me on your whole approach to traveling. Such a GREAT point!!!!!

[@daftirishmarej1827]

Definitely take your time about Rome! I've been about 40 times (I lived in Abruzzo) and I still find new things to see!

[@dinnes3375]

Keep the great, informative, thoughtful videos coming. You are so well suited to communicating successfully this way. Best Wishes.

[@khadijahmmasorong]

I'm watching from the Philippines 🇵🇭 Thanks for the video!!

[@c.greystone9825]

Nik, thanks for your concise, clear and helpful tips in this vid. Will check out your other travel vids. Subbed!

[@awaytogether]

Thanks so much! Welcome to the channel!

[@MindfulMidLifeTravel]

Great tips!

[@LatinJck]

Great tips. I used Viator all the time. When I traveled to the Netheralands and visited Amsterdam and then when I visited Spain and Portugal - I used Viator a lot and made my experience amazing. Easy to go to events, save tickets on my iphone, etc.

[@bekahwalker1765]

Thanks for this. Thanks for letting me know I'm not crazy for doing all my research and planning. I begin obsessing over MONTHS in advance of my trip. :)

[@chocolateacids]

This is really fun and interesting to listen to as a European (Scandinavian) and, yes, regarding #8. Exactly what you said. I couldn't care less what country someone is from, as long as they're being respectful and nice. I'd also say that even if some of us - depending on the country - may seem unapproachable at times most Europeans will stop and try to help/answer questions regarding direction, restaurant recommendation, culture, etc. if you just ask us. But, as you said, the chance of getting help will go way up if you begin with e.g. "Excuse me, do you speak English?" in the local language - whether it's a random person on the street or a store clerk - 'cause it's just a nice gesture. Personally I only remember having met one American tourist in my life and he was really nice. Edit: In Sweden, if you order coffee, a lot of places (not all, but you can just ask beforehand) will not charge for a refill. There's even a word, "påtår", which means to getting a refill after you've finished your first cup of coffee.

[@Olivier-GM]

I learned basic swedish before a nice trip in Sweden (west coast). It's fun to test your phrases, people are super nice when you make an effort and it's a gate to a new culture. Sverige är så vackert. I'll go back to Sweden for sure ! 🇨🇵 ❤ 🇸🇪

[@musikkimies]

Nik, I've watched several of your videos and am very impressed by your recommendations and ability to communicate clearly, thoughtfully, and respectfully. Fantastic work. I'm impressed that your videos aren't about "look at how cool my wife and I are because of our travel," or "buy this thing we get a commission on." Instead, your videos and approach are (kind of like Rick Steves) very inviting with the desire to help people have wonderful cultural experiences. Bravo!

[@chocolate_chip21]

I thought your tip to be humble is great! That could really help if you were lacking in some other aspect of preparation. Who wants to help an arrogant tourist. Thanks for the great video!

[@jamesjackson3293]

after 5 trips to Europe, this video I totally agree with!!

[@dorisgilman920]

WOW you nailed it.

[@j9348]

I did Pimsleur for my first trip to Romania. For my second time I did Duolingo. You understand the language with Duolingo, but for just traveling and site seeing, Pimsleur was just fine! I’m going to do Pimsleur for my trip to Belgium

[@krcal3020]

Great tips! We have traveled extensively in Europe and always try to focus on a smaller area for 2 weeks. And, we no longer rent a car. Trains and buses will get us most places. When we wanted to get to smaller locations, we have been able to use taxis or hire a driver (the hotel can often help). While expensive, it’s still cheaper than renting a car. Also, in Sicily, we did something called a « tour-transfer ». The driver transferred us between cities, but made several stops at interesting sites along the way.

[@TheNycpearl]

Lots of great advice here - truly appreciate the etiquette for American tourists tips especially. 🙏

[@alesagrant1087]

Humility. YES.

[@annb6324]

One of the best videos I’ve watched on European travel. You hit the nail on the head 100% Hubby and I have had so many wonderful experiences when we just try to communicate with the locals. Sometimes it’s worthy of a really good laugh! But so worth it.

[@sewforthandsewon]

Beautiful, heartfelt video! Thank you! You are a passionate, compassionate human being! I appreciate and respect you my friend! ❤🦋

[@awaytogether]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to write!

[@joecesa]

I'm new on your page, and enjoying hearing your suggestions. I've traveled but I think there's always something to learn by hearing another persons view. I especially loved #8: Yes yes yes. Be humble, you're a guest in their home country, leave your arrogance before boarding. Be open minded of their way of eating, drinking, playing, living. As an American, I think many of my countrymen have this paranoia that everyone is out to get them, take advantage, hates them. There are scams and pickpockets, but I have rarely ever felt concerned--never afraid--of who I was with or around, or where I was walking or riding transit. At all hours. Be sensible but open your eyes and enjoy. Keep creating, thanks.

[@marthamryglod6892]

I visited Ireland and took every bus and train and just got off and enjoyed exploring wherever I was. Saw everything and met wonderful people!

[@gerard4613290]

Love your approach..

[@alicehughey1719]

I'm an American who really appreciates your comments about being polite and cultivating humility. We need to be good citizens of the world and curious about and respectful of other cultures if we want people to like us!

[@tracimorgan3695]

Thanks for the tips, we leave for Europe this weekend Whoot Hoot!!!!

[@jimeagan]

Great tips. Thanks

[@s.d.m.1840]

Thanks a Million for this vlog... very informative and a lot to consider. I've subscribed! :D

[@awaytogether]

Thanks for the sub!

[@gracebergeron949]

your video very helpful. I am a straight shooter, love your video. no fluff.

[@mariojsworld]

Nicely presented.

[@saskiapanter]

You are so right, it's exactly what I hope for. Just act normal, and treat people the way you want to be treated. I've been to the USA and I did exactly the same, and I've heard from my guy that I made a very good impression on them. So happy that I did. I will share this one with him for he's coming to Spain with me, when I'm on holiday there. Can't wait😃

[@vino140]

Excellent !!

[@gmnewlook]

Thanks for the tips! This will be our second trip to Paris and I'm looking forward to experiencing more of the food (we'll be avoiding all the fast food chains we have here in Canada) there and I'm sure to find inspiration when we go to the grocery store and boucherie and all the other shops in the neighbourhood our Airbnb is in. Last time we were there, everyone was so friendly and we even met a restaurant owner who was from Quebec like us.

[@cch255]

If you don't know it, there is an wonderful Jewish Deportation memorial just behind Notre Dame. So awesome! Closed mondays.

[@gmnewlook]

@@cch255 thanks for the tip! We're supposed to do our itinerary this weekend, which is a long weekend here in Canada, Victoria Day is on Monday.

[@audreyjumpp1687]

We tipped in UK and Greece and they were surprised and very thankful

[@FaithBetta]

I’m going to Italy for 2 weeks this summer and I’m soooo excited! I’ve never been out of the US and I love Italy’s culture and language so it’s the perfect place for my first trip

[@noelshirleycartwright7659]

I have found the kindest people by a simple smile and use of a bit of their language. I’ve had hotel people offer to do my laundry free of charge (of course I tip them). They have helped to negotiate the metro ticket machines and offer their seats to us older tourists.

[@skeller61]

I appreciate that you emphasize humility. After all, when you travel to Italy, for instance, it’s about the size of Georgia and Florida combined. But they produce Ferraris, Maseratis, and Lamborghinis! That’s just one industry in one country. When you see cultures that are several times older than the US, it is amazing! I haven’t been since the 1960’s (my parents rented a VW camper for a month and it was one of the most memorable months of my life). I’ll retire in a couple of years and am looking forward to spending some time there. I’m watching videos like yours to get me prepared and looking forward to great experiences. I’m thinking along the lines of taking a 14 day river cruise, then getting a two week Eurail pass. Thanks again for your videos. I appreciate the way you present information.

[@loripaulus566]

Wonderful video and extremely helpful. Doing a Danube Christmas Market river cruise later this year. This will be my first time to Europe.

[@harryscott5993]

Your videos are so comprehensive, my friend! Thank you for sharing your insights! Even the quality is noteworthy! I’m wondering what the e audio would sound like if you were to use a lapel. Keep up the great work, and keep sharing your advice and tips!

[@awaytogether]

Thank you very much Harry! I upgraded my mic since this video was filmed and hopefully it has improved the experience. We will keep working to up the quality!

[@harryscott5993]

@@awaytogether Excellent! Also, as a professional voice actor, I will tell you that you also have a clean speaking voice: very good pacing and pitch.

[@awaytogether]

@@harryscott5993 Wow that means a lot coming from you! Much appreciated.

[@markthompson3398]

Always, always go to the local supermarket it’s fun seeing how something while so similar in concept can be applied so differently. Oh and in the gulf your tonic to go with your gin is not in the soft drinks section it’s in the health (tonic) section, butter is in the freezer, it all makes perfect sense. Buying some bread and sandwich makings or whatever the countries equivalent is can go a long way to making your trip a lot cheaper and the experience so much more valid.

[@chrisk5651]

Love love love Rick Steves!!!

[@peterrowley6016]

just found this channel , pretty good information , personally I like going to the pub when i travel , found some really good restaurants, shops etc from talking with the locals in the pub, yeah don't spend all day but they are a good source of local knowledge, I'm off to Nice and Lyon for the RWC so I'll be in a pub or 2 for sure , but good channel

[@melodia360]

Absolutely true..be a guest in their country, be respectful

[@mmady01]

Wow! As a fellow American here, you are spot on with these European travel tips. I have been going to Europe for over 20 years and these are accurate. Great video! 🙂

[@awaytogether]

Really appreciate you saying that!

[@barbarahallowell2613]

" it's on them that they didn't have a good time." Amen. THANK YOU.😊

[@lesf5792]

This is a great video. Thank you for taking the time to pull this info together. My wife and I have been travelling for 40+ years. 😮. Your point about rushing from place to place is so true. I think it’s better to focus than doing drive bys so you can tell your friends you “visited Budapest”. Manageable chunks are better. Also the home country charge card option always confused me. Thank you for that. As a Canadian, I do find some American travellers to be loud and obnoxious. But they obviously haven’t benefited from watching this video. 😂

[@cindywilkinson1610]

Love Pimsleur method for learning language

[@libertyc8688]

Wow, you are amazing. I am from Belgrade Serbia, but I live most of my life in Vancouver Canada. I am familiar with both cultures, and can tell you, you did excellent job on your explanation in this video. you are amazing, so detailed i was surprised , not sure if i would explain it better being from Europe. I have truly enjoyed it so i watch it twice. Thank you , that is for sure a great and a lot information. If you ever visit Serbia make sure to eat the food that known as very delicious.

[@hayleyscomet1]

Greetings from Sunny Cape Town South Africa. Love your videos. We made that mistake in 2022 , went to Italy and added Switserland and Germany. Lol. In 21 days. Well we leave in 32 days for Rome Florence Milan and Venice ONLY. ❤😮

[@JP-zk7ye]

Great tips!🇺🇸

[@TOMMY-NFPCCC.AU_DCSS.ORG.AU_JP]

SO AGREE WITH THE TIME AND LOCATION! This is my first ever international trip by myself, especially to Europe! That is why I am spending 2 weeks in London Central > 1 week in Scotland > 1 week TBC I do need help getting my activities planned hahaha.

[@user-zn2yg4ho3l]

YOU BEING THE TOUR GUIDE

[@annebarden4179]

Be in the moment...I've planned many holidays inspired by a booK or film which often means it is regional...very good video thanks, and I'm in UK these points apply to me too

[@stevedavis3527]

Great videos and explained well. I've travelled extensively through Europe. I've always been treated very well by all the people I've encountered. Don't over plan is advice I give to people who ask me for tips when they go to Europe. One summer I stayed in Europe for the entire summer, visiting 13 countries. I way over planned with tours and realized this early on. Fortunately, I booked many tours that allowed me to cancel. I then was able to have a day here and there where nothing was planned. Just able to walk around and enjoy the day doing whatever I wanted.

[@stevedavis3527]

I did the same thing. Sometimes you need a vacation from the vacation.

[@byronkerby6897]

Humility. Yes. My husband and I (early 70s) are planning to move from the U.S. to France in a few months, and your tips are awesome. Thank you so much for all the wonderful tips.

[@awaytogether]

Wow what part of France? Congrats! Thanks for watching.

[@byronkerby6897]

@@awaytogether Near the Plage de Mourillon in Toulon. Thank you!

[@jankro1]

Very good tips🇫🇮

[@billteeuwen4406]

Thanks!