Your First Time in Europe, Episode 213

On today’s episode, Annie shares 10 tips for people who are traveling to Europe or France for the first time. After spending time in Germany and England recently she noticed a several things that are likely to throw you off if this is your first time in Europe. And, of course, all of these differences apply in France as well as the rest of Europe!

Click here to see the full Show Notes for this episode.

What You Need to Know Before Your First Time in Europe

If you haven't visited Europe before or if it's been a long time since your last visit, you need to listen so you're not caught off guard! It's pretty easy to handle, we give you a list of a few things to put in your suitcase so you don't have to go running off to the store as soon as you arrive!

#1 Hotel Beds Won't Have a Top Sheet

Instead of a top sheet and blanket you'll get a comforter with a duvet cover. If you get too hot with the heavy comforter you may want a top sheet.

#2 No Toiletries in Budget Hotels

Budget hotels will have zero toiletries for you when you arrive. Not even a stick of soap. You can usually tell if you read the reviews, but just in case, bring travel size toiletries.

#3 No Washcloths in Hotels

Bring your own wash cloth because unless you're staying at a luxury hotel, there will not be a washcloth for you in the room. No loofah either!

#4 Hotel Rooms Are Tiny in Europe!

Everything in North America is over-sized. When you arrive in France or England or Germany, you will think you've landed in the land of Lilliput!

#5 Turning Things On in European Hotel Rooms

In England you have to turn every plug with a switch. In France and Germany you have to insert your hotel magnetic card into a reader before the lights or heating/cooling will work.

#6 Open Windows for Ventilation

In Europe we often don't have fans you can turn on for ventilation. Some hotel rooms will have constant ventilation, some have none and you're supposed to open the windows.

#7 No Carpet in Most Hotel Rooms in Europe

Hotel rooms in Europe usually have wood floors, tile, or linoleum. You may find short commercial carpet, but it will be the exception, not the rule.

#8 Security Searches in Europe

There will be security lines everywhere you go in Europe. Travel light and plan on opening your bag for security!

#9 Check to See If You Need a Power Converter

Depending on what you bring on your trip, you may or may not need a power converter. Check your charger with a magnifying glass!

#10 You Need Travel Plug Adapters!

Your US/Canada plug will not fit in any socket in Europe. Bring a travel plug adapter or two so you can charge your phone as soon as you arrive.

Answer to a Listener Question What to Do If People Cut In Line in Front of You in France?

At the end of the episode, Annie also answers the age-old question: what do I do if people cut in line in front of my in France? This is not a common problem, but it can happen. No need to get into a fight, you can fix it really easily!

Learn More: First Time in Paris, France How-to