Travel Tips

I put these together for Jerry and his friend Kevin who hope to take a tour this summer.

- always learn hello, thank you, do you speak English and more in the local language
- ask for help - especially in the train station, finding better connections, etc.
- figure out the local transit - various choices, some underground, some ground level trains (trams) & busses. intercity trains do what they say.
- get a list of youth hostels for the cities you're visiting - it is better once you have a place to sleep and stow your stuff
- consider couch surfing
- use internet cafes for communication with your people, especially your parents
- bottled water is no gas, like you know and with gas which is carbonated. check.
- watch out for traffic, trams, busses, bikes, cars, taxis, etc. It can lull you into a comfortable stance and it just takes one time, walking before you think. Don't do it.
- be ready to get off the train and on the train, they tend to leave when they should so it works fine, if you're ready. Pack up your stuff 10 min. before you are due to arrive. Try to get to the right track, it is often confusing, as early as practical - say 20 minutes. If you have 30 you have time to find the wrong track twice and still make it. I have done this.
- plan at least a couple of days in advance where you plan to stay, but be ready to change if something better presents itself. The biggest hassle is trying to find a decent place that won't break your wallet on a daily basis. Planning equals better room at less cost. Dumping your bag and then getting to it, is nice.
- talk to locals, find a reason, helps if you know a couple of words, you will probably remember the people you meet and the conversations you have as the best part of the trip. Force yourself to do it. It isn't easy to start but once you do start, it is easy. Take their picture, get their email. Make friends.
- Take some St. Louis post cards - you can get them in the airport - then when you are telling people about your home, show them one. Leave it with new friends.
- It is really fun to anticipate the trip. Reading tour books, watching travel shows on TV and getting ideas for your trip are very worthwhile and will help you have a great time.
- Think about visiting family. They will really enjoy it and you will probably have a great time.
attraction
- There are often city passes that get you museums, transit and attractions at a very low price, if you are doing a bunch of stuff in one place.
- Train time is eating time (pick up something in the station - don't forget your water or other drink), reading time (whatever you like - including info on the upcoming city), writing time (your journal, post cards, etc), relaxing, talking and listening to music. Just don't forget to know where you are and what station you want off at.

- The open busses that run you around a town can be nice if you go by things/places you want to visit.