Things we learned by traveling through Europe

Things we learned by traveling through Europe &
Handy tips for when we go again (in no particular order):

• It is possible to communicate with someone when you can’t understand a word they’re saying.
• “WC” stands for “Water Closet,” and is a wacky way of saying “restroom.” Oddly (and luckily), WC is universal in all the European countries we visited.
• When in a restaurant, just go in and sit down. Don’t wait to be seated. The waiters are very confused by that.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for an English Menu! “Zwei karten auf englisch, bitte” seems to work well in German.
• Close your menu when you want to order. Your waiter will magically appear within moments.
• You have to ask for the check. It won’t matter how long you sit there. “Die Rechnung, bitte” is the way to say that in German.
• Buy small bottles of water and then refill them at the hotel. Carry those in your day-pack. The water is fine to drink in Europe, and it’s much cheaper to do it this way.
• “Wassa mit gas” is mineral water in German.
• Diet Coke is “Cola Light” or “Coke Light” in German.
• Buy food and drinks at the Hauptbahnhof (main train station) before getting on the train.
• Buy cheap razors and fingernail clippers there – since you can’t take them on the plane. Plus, it’s quite an experience in one of those stores.
• A detailed city map that costs 2 Euro is worth $500 (especially in Amsterdam). Buy it!!
• The Eurail Pass is the only way to see Europe! Riding the trains (especially the ICE) is the best!
• Only one bag allowed! Pack light! Pack an empty day-pack in your bag. Bring it home full of water and treats for the plane.
• Don’t forget your memory cards or the little adapter for your charger! Digi-cams are awesome!
• Finally…even if you completely lose your sense of direction, don’t ever lose your sense of adventure or your sense of humor. Sometimes you find the best places and meet the nicest people when you are completely lost.

You can read all about our trip to Europe, and about all our adventures in each city:

Munich, Germany
Salzburg, Austria
Vienna, Austria
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Brussels, Belgium