…Without feeling like a total hobo. From trains, supermarkets to water bottles, here are 5 things you need to know while prepping for a trip to Europe.
5. Supermarkets are your best friends.
From take away risotto in Rome to Maison Octave apricot jam in Paris, supermarkets will always have it for cheaper. Most European supermarkets have a really good deli and bakery section, so why not save on breakfast by skipping that overpriced bakery featured on your Lonely Planet guide? Supermarkets are also perfect for thrifty souvenir hunting (particularly food-related kinds–think: Italian pasta and olive oil for the parents; little pots of English jam for your co-workers,) and more and more supermarkets are expanding their reparatory to things like postcards and little trinkets. Next time you’re looking for a souvenir, ask yourself this question: “Can I get it in a supermarket?”
4. Bring a water bottle with a filter-top.
In some parts of the world, water isn’t free. Europe is included in that part of the world. In fact, Europe is a part of the world where water is not only very expensive everywhere one goes, but also difficult to access. If you drink a lot of water like me, and particularly if you’re not a fan of sparkling water, it is best to carry your own. Fill your bottle up before leaving in the morning, and at every sink or fountain you lay eyes on. If, however, you are like my friend from high school who claims to be “allergic to tap water,” buy your mineral water in bulk at a supermarket to save a few bucks (See above tip.)
3. Make use of night time trains.
Don’t regard transportation as an added cost or waste of time, but as an opportunity to save bucks on unnecessary accommodation. In this light, you begin to see that 10-hour regional train ride as a better option than the 1-hour plane flight or 3-hour express train ride. Just wear a warm hoodie and bring a pillow – your seat is transformed into a makeshift bed for the night! Besides, there’s some romance and old-school European charm to traveling by train that just can’t be replaced.
2. Stay at a convent – they’re the new youth hostel.
European cities are full of churches and convents, many of which offer accommodation at a very small price. Though the comforts are very basic (usually you stay in a bed with a room containing 4 to 6 other beds, and gain access to showers and bathroom) it’s a unique experience that can definitely add flavour to your vacation. Unfortunately however, convents only accept women in most cases, so this tip doesn’t really apply for the men-folk.
1. Smile and look presentable.
Not only will you feel less like a hobo and look better in all of your photos that you post on Facebook later, but you also never know who you might meet during your travels. Not that you should trust every creepy-looking stranger, but that hottie in the red shirt just might save you a few bucks for lunch and buy you a free meal. So pack at least one pair of nice heels or dress shoes, and do a quick hair fix before you leave your hotel. You won’t be sorry!
Written by Chihiro Isozaki.
