As someone who had never been out of the country prior to my study abroad, I made sure to do a lot of research before I left. However, there were some things not even Google could tell me. Here is a list of 10 things I wish I would have known before I went to Europe:
1. Pack Febreze
Until 2018, smoking is legal in all cafes and restaurants in many European countries. Not all cafes allow smoking, but the ones that do are usually filled in a cloud of smoke. I respect the European culture, but I don't like my clothes constantly smelling of the odor. So be prepared and pack a travel-sized Febreze and your clothes will smell fresher than before.
2. McDonald's is super fancy.
Okay, so when I first came to Austria, the last thing I wanted to eat was McDonalds. However, I stopped in one Sunday and found that the food is actually better quality and the restaurant is more upscale than the states. McDonald's in Vienna have both a cafe portion and customization meals. In a pinch, this "fast" food is still very practical.
3. Bring a canvas bag for shopping.
In America, everyone is used to baggers putting away their groceries and having either plastic or paper bags available for home use. However, in Europe, you need to bring your own bag for almost any kind of shopping. In the long run, this saves money for the company and helps save the environment
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4. Dress to impress.
Everyone in Europe dress nicer than America. I mean I've been here for a week and sometimes I feel self conscious going out in jeans. Buy some button downs and preppy sweater- you will sure need them.
5. Break down your bills.
While credit cards are easy to use, it is still important to bring cash. Most of the time when you take cash out of an ATM, it will only supply you with the biggest bill breakdown. Moral of the story: break down your bills before you come to Europe.
6. People are extremely reserved.
In the US, many people are used to small chit-chats on trains or at stores. In Europe, it is more common for people to keep to themselves.
7. Invest in a SIM card or texting apps.
You don't necessarily need to have an international plan when it comes to cell phones. However, it does help to either buy a pay a you go SIM card or just rely on Wifi.
8. Download transportation apps.
Each city has their own form of public transit that is most commonly used. As a way to stay updated, download that city's transportation app to learn more about practical use.
9. Not everyone native speaks the country's official language.
Europe is a fruit salad or a melting pot or whatever national analogy you want to use. Either way, just because you learn a country's national language does not mean that will be the most common one spoken.
10. Look up.
For most of the buildings in Europe, architects exampanded vertically rather than horiontally. So sometimes the most beautiful thing is right above you.
I hope these tips help prepare you for a great visit to Europe- safe travels!
