Oh, the joys of a European escapade! Having recently returned from an extended stay in Athens at the end of February, I’ve got a few insights and anecdotes that I thought I would share. This adventure marked my third long stay in Europe over the last six years, each visit stretching beyond the four-week mark. And oh, the things I’ve learned! I’m eager to share some invaluable tricks that promise to ease your travels, whether you’re venturing for a week or basking in the European charm for six months.
Navigating the Streets with Rideshare Apps
Not every European country has Uber, but fear not, my dear clients! In Europe, rideshare apps frequently collaborate with local taxi services, providing a seamless way to get around without the hassle of cash transactions. Plus, there’s the added peace of mind of knowing that your journey can be tracked by you or a partner.
A little tip: try to set up your payment information in the app before you leave. Trust me, fiddling with credit card setups abroad can be more than a little frustrating because of that extra layer of security from your bank or credit card company.
eSIM Revolution
Nowadays, staying connected seems non-negotiable. Gone are the days of pricey airport SIM cards; hello, eSIMs! These digital marvels have revolutionized how we stay connected abroad, particularly useful for country hoppers. eSIMs leverage software instead of a tangible card, a move that’s quickly becoming the norm among phone manufacturers.
Our go-to? UBIGI. Their user-friendly setup process had us online in no time, and service reliability hinges on the destination’s network. Bear in mind that eSIMs are typically data-only, but with apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime, you can get away from traditional texting and calling. For the globetrotters among us, IP phone services such as Ring Central or Google Voice are game-changers, requiring nothing more than a data connection.
The Magic of Credit Cards
It’s unexpected how few times we had to rely on cash during our six-month European journey, with our credit cards being accepted almost universally. We opted for a Scotiabank Visa, a savvy choice that sidesteps those pesky foreign transaction fees, which often hover around 2.5% per transaction. And the cherry on top? Six complimentary lounge visits per year.
Know Where to go When you’ve Gotta go.
Flush is a user-friendly app that helps you quickly find nearby restrooms with ratings and reviews. With its intuitive interface and community-driven approach, it’s your go-to solution for on-the-go relief. It’s Google Reviews but for bathrooms!
May these tips usher you into a world of seamless European adventures, leaving you with nothing but the joy of discovery and the thrill of the journey.
Here’s to your next European adventure.
