Tips for the interested traveler

Here are a compilation of tips along my way:

1) The packing equation - Lay out all the things you "think" you need and then multiply by 0.5. That, is how much you really need. It will make moving about the country with all your gear much more feasible. As a corollary a one day trip only requires one set of clothes.

2) Although you might have the munchies, refrain from eating food from street vendors in the very early morning hours (like 2:30 AM). Your stomach will thank you later in the day.

3) It's cheaper to purchase tickets in bulk or all-day passes if you are going into town for the day.

4) An even cheaper mode of transport for anyone between the ages of 12-25 & 60+ is to rent a bike. For me, renting a bike cost 15 euro + 90 euro deposit (returned when I returned the bike).

5) Purchase train tickets early. The longer you wait the higher the prices can go, though not always. If you are okay with getting odd seats in the train, then you can purchase tickets close to your date of departure.

6) Beware the foreign transaction fees. It's better to pull cash out of a sponsored bank (no withdrawal fees). Also not all stores have machines that accept credit cards with a magnetic strip. Most accept cards with SMARTcards.

7) The red and green lights are only suggestions. You'll see people J-walk a lot. But be careful of cars, not all will slow down if they see you crossing.

8) Hostels are fun places to meet people (this can be both good and bad, but more good for the experience).

9) Food: While in France, you must try the cheeses, saucisson, and wine. In Belgium you must try the frites (fries), Belgian waffles, and chocolate. In Germany, try the kebabs, many types of sausages, sauerkraut, and potatoes.

10) Travel, travel, travel. You might only get to see places once.