The Sojournicle team love to travel, and half the fun is in the planning. Research is key and below we share our tips for a well planned holiday. We use a shared spreadsheet (Google docs) and create multiple versions of a trip until we get something that completely works. Grab a cup of tea, your note book and pen and read on.
TripAdvisor
When planning a trip, TripAdvisor is an essential tool providing reviews about accommodation, restaurants and tours. Focus on reviews from travellers who have contributed multiple times, rather than those who have only reviewed once. TripAdvisor also allow you to create Trips, which is useful for creating wishlists and itineraries. Use their map to ensure you are located where the action is. We like to search reviews for keywords: noise and breakfast. Note that a hotel with noise problems doesn’t mean all of the rooms have noise issues. Be sure to ask for a quiet room if you’re a light sleeper, or a room with a view if you enjoy observing the local activities. Always have earplugs as part of your travel kit.
Booking hotels
Hotel booking websites such as Expedia or Agoda might offer some great deals on hotel rooms, but contacting the hotel directly may be even better. Don’t be afraid to ask if they can match or better the price. You’ll be surprised at how many hotels will accommodate your request.
Airbnb
When travelling for longer periods (e.g. 4 weeks +), booking an Airbnb apartment can be a good way to break up hotel stays. It is usually more cost effective, especially for extended stays and families, with the added benefits of amenities you simply cannot get at hotels. We usually book a short AirBnb stay after a week or two of travel to avoid having to visit the laundromat.
Small group tours (<15 people)
Smaller group size means you see more sights, and spend less time waiting around for others to gather back at meeting points.
Private tours
Private tours are more expensive, but perfect for those who prefer a flexible schedule. If you’re travelling as a family or a small group of friends, it is actually fairly economical as you typically pay a fee for the vehicle, not per person.
Free walking tours
Absolute must! Get your walking shoes on and enjoy a local tour… it’s a great way to familiarise yourself with a new city. There are many free walking tours available… and don’t forget to tip generously!
One-way day trips
Essentially a day tour that gets you from one city to the next, without the inconvenience of flight travel. It’s leisurely, scenic and the drivers are knowledgeable and entertaining. You get to visit attractions between cities that you might not have otherwise been able to reach easily. Day trips are great in getting you to that next destination!
Restaurants
Reserve a table. It’s a good idea to make a reservation at the more popular, highly-rated restaurants in busier cities as walk-ins often get turned away. Dine earlier, you’re much more likely to get a table walking-in. Less crowded. Less noise. Be aware that many restaurants in some cities such as Paris will not open until 7pm, whilst restaurants in cities like Helsinki will be busy at 4pm in winter.
Transport
Uber is available through most of Europe. Budapest and Athens do not offer Uber, you should be wary of taxis in these cities. Where Uber is unavailable, private transfers are a good option, book with a reputable company ahead of time. Always ask the driver for their local recommendations.
Flights
Use Skyscanner to browse for the best flight deals. Be sure to check baggage allowances. Many European low cost airline carriers are available and reliable. Except Wizz Air – avoid this airline like the plague, as they carefully sneak avoidable costs onto your tickets, adding hefty fees after you arrive at the airport. Note that the cheaper airlines usually require you to catch a bus onto the runway, boarding in open air, which can be rather bracing in winter, or heavy rain.
Trains
High-speed trains are awesome! Book a seat to ensure comfort. Loved travelling first class on the TGV in France.
Phone/data services
For safety while travelling, it’s important to have access to a working phone. Purchase a prepaid data plan prior to departure. Adjust your mobile settings, so you’re using WiFi when available, this will keep your data costs down. Also consider a travel SIM that works in all of the countries that you’re visiting.
Communication
Before your trip, spend a little time learning essential phrases such as hello, goodbye, thank you, where is, how much, etc. European cities often offer multiple languages, though the locals appreciate it when you make an effort to converse in their native language. And it’s so satisfying when the locals compliment your accent! WhatsApp is very popular and was useful when communicating with private tour operators and Airbnb hosts.
What’s your travel style? Do you plan ahead or are you more of a spontaneous traveller? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
