In the summer of 2016 I went on the trip of a lifetime. I went to 6 different countries in 17 days, and it forever changed me and my outlook on life. Not only did it change my perspective, but it changed some of my vocabulary! For example, when describing something as chaotic, one would say "It's like Piccadilly Circus in here!". Also, a term of endearment I learned from my tour director was "schnoofie".
In addition to that, I have become more of a food critic since I came back. I don't really know what it is, but in Europe the food is out of this world. It's more fresh, organic, and non GMO. If you have never left the country, I highly suggest you do, not only for a bit of a change, but also for the food. If I had the chance to move to Europe just for food, I would be gone within a week! The food in each country was different, but each one had one food that really blew me away. In Germany, I had white sausage with sweet mustard, and I am still craving it. In Austria, the wiener schnitzel was amazing. In Italy, the tiramisu and gelato kept me awake at night. In Switzerland, I craved these small meringues that were dipped in chocolate. I ate 12 of them within 2 hours! In France, the croque monsieurs were perfect. There were also these cute little rose candies I bought, and I still have some at home! In Britain, their meat pie was so lovely. No matter how much amazing food I devoured or how many new words I learned, there were a lot of important lessons to be learned.
1.) Pickpockets, pickpockets, pickpockets. You would not believe how many people would try to steal from you. There would be one person talking to you as a distraction, then there would be an accomplice that would "bump" into you, while actually taking your wallet or phone. I tell you this not to scare you, but to warn and prepare you. Luckily, I used an anti-theft purse, which was slash proof, and the zippers had clips so it would make it very hard for someone to steal from you. If you go to Europe, just be sure to be aware of your surroundings!
2.) Lock your windows/doors at night. It might seem silly if you are on the 5th floor, but people will actually climb up the building and into your room. While I was on the trip, this one group of girls left their door open without pulling down the metal barrier, and people came into their room while they were sleeping and took all of their money. Luckily, the bank was able to cancel their credit cards, but my tour director still had to report it to the police, which led to the hotel owners to get mad at our tour group, which was a pain in the butt. Just be aware, be smart, and protect yourself.
3.) If you see a bathroom that you don't need to pay for, use it. Otherwise, always carry Euros with you. It might seem silly, but you will probably need to use the bathroom a lot. Always have some sort of currency on you, or else you will be crossing your legs for hours.
4.) Wear comfortable shoes/clothing. It might seem obvious, but sometimes your "comfortable" shoes won't be comfortable after continually walking for 5 hours straight. In Europe, there is a lot to see, and you won't want to sit down for very long.
5.) Be polite. In Europe, people are very friendly, and they will come up to you and start a conversation. Don't intentionally blow them off, because that is how they genuinely are.
If you ever plan on going to Europe, just remember all of these tips and have a great time! I know I did.
