Something useful
Travel Tips: Europe Edition
"I live in a very nice place, why would I want to go anywhere? - Love it here" - Eeewww, that's a very common example of stupid bullshit. Read this post to avoid visiting the same park or square in your town/city over and over again.
Hi Sunshine! How are you doing?

I am eager to share some helpful tips that can facilitate your European travels and living experiences, whether you are seeking budget-friendly options or not. Make sure to save these suggestions for future reference, as they apply to all European countries except for Azores or Faroe Islands, where the prices may be steep but the natural beauty is unmatched.

To begin, let's explore the convenience of traveling within the Schengen zone, where a single visa or residence permit allows for unrestricted movement. For more detailed information about visa requirements click here. Despite Norway, Switzerland, and Iceland not being members of the European Union, do not be deterred as they are still included in the Schengen area. This means that having a morning tinder date in Oslo and a dinner date in Zurich on the same day is perfectly feasible.

Prior to delving into the recommendations, it's important to emphasize that not all trips should be centered around cheap, time-pressed itineraries or rushed one-day tours of popular destinations like Paris. If your goal is to unwind and savor your surroundings, consider booking a quality hotel and taking the time to explore the surrounding area over several leisurely days. That being said, if you're embarking on an adventure tour, a brief weekend excursion spanning 1-2 days may be ideal so as not to disrupt your work or academic commitments. Personally, I relish traveling alone to obscure locations, as these trips provide me with valuable insights (particularly about myself); however, they require an open mindset for meeting new people and embracing novel cultures, which can be challenging at times.
apps? -apps!
Before we travel - we always use our phones, tablets or laptops to search the best options for our upcoming trip. Let's begin with the essential apps!
  • Skyscanner & Aviasales
    These two are flight ticket searching platforms. There you can compare the fares and set price alerts for required flights. When buying a ticket - you will be redirected to the ticket selling website.

    skyscanner.com | aviasales.com
    1
  • Ryanair
    The low-cost carrier based in Dublin, Ireland. Operates to all of the European countries with prices starting at 7,99EUR per person. Yes nothing else is included but you'll get where you need to!

    ryanair.com
    2
  • Wizz, EasyJet, Norwegian
    Other low-cost carriers doing an amazing job on the European market. Before buying tickets I recommend to compare prices among all of them as one may be cheaper or have a better schedule.

    wizzair.com | easyjet.com | norwegian.com
    3
  • KIWI
    Kiwi is a wonderful app to find amazing deals for flights all over the world. As well as you get an opportunity to book a car or an apartment. They offer cool deals for several-day trips anywhere.

    kiwi.com
    4
  • Booking.com
    Needs no introduction. The classics of booking accommodation of any type. Works everywhere on earth (except for Russia and North Korea) and helps millions of people on daily basis.

    booking.com
    5
  • Airbnb
    An amazing place to book a stay, mostly rented out from regular people. This may be a room, whole apartment or a medieval castle. Very often at fair price. Looking for a dream stay?

    airbnb.com
    6
  • FlixBus
    Low-cost bus services available in almost every country in Europe. Super convenient connections and comfortable busses themselves. Free WiFi, bar at the driver, reclining seats and a washroom on board.

    flixbus.com
    7
  • OMIO
    One of my favourite apps/websites to book a train trip or compare train/bus/plane prices. This Berlin based startup works great and builds very convenient connections if a trip requires one.

    omio.com
    8
  • BlaBlaCar
    Hop on a trip with some stranger in their auto! Sounds scary but each driver has a rating and reviews + proved personal data, so don't worry and enjoy the comfortable ride! You also can choose the car and pricing.

    blablacar.com
    9
Dating?
Most often, before some of the trips, I find new acquaintances who tell and show local things and give recommendations for visiting. Where to find them?
  • Dating apps
    A very nice option meeting someone even before you came to the place. Use "friendship" mode or some similar app function to communicate with locals!

    tinder.com | bumble.com
    1
  • Facebook groups
    Search for groups of Travellers on FaceBook or any other social media platform you're using. Lots of people are excited about sharing their travel experiences with others.

    facebook.com
    2
  • Recommendations from Bloggers
    Listen to the Influencers you trust (sometimes the recommendation may be overrated but still). Be careful with promotions/sponsored content as they can be a scam.

    youtube.com | instagram.com | twitter.com | facebook.com | pinterest.com
    3
  • TikTok
    It is not a joke now! TikTok is an amazing place to share trip advices and ideas. Please, do not underestimate the social platform and its users.

    tiktok.com
    4
try locals
We've covered well-known apps, websites and ideas. But what if I tell you, that there are way more options that may be cheaper and more convenient to use.
Let's talk about the "Starbucks theory". You know the drill - you're in a new place and you need a quick caffeine fix. So what do you do? Head straight to the nearest Starbucks, of course. It's like a comforting hug from a long-lost friend, even if the coffee isn't exactly mind-blowing.

Well, the same goes for transportation and accommodation. Stick with the tried-and-true options that you know and trust. But, if you're feeling adventurous, go off the beaten path and try out some local options. Who knows, you might end up with a fancy latte from a boutique coffee shop, or a cozy B&B with a quirky owner who gives you free hugs.

When it comes to transportation, it's like a game of roulette. You never know what you're going to get, but you hope for the best. Stick with the well-known options, like Uber or public transportation systems, for a reliable ride.

But, if you're feeling daring, try out some local options. Sure, you might end up in a rickety old taxi with a driver who doesn't speak a word of English, but hey, it's all part of the adventure!

Now, let's talk about some of the big hitters when it comes to travel destinations. These countries are tried-and-true favorites for a reason, and they also happen to have some fantastic local transportation options. So, whether you're in the bustling streets of Berlin or cruising down the Seine in Paris, you'll be able to find a reliable way to get around and explore.
  • Austria
    ÖBB, Wiener Linien (Vienna), VOR AnachB (Lower Austria), Wegfinder (whole Austria)
    AT
  • Germany
    DB, BVG (Berlin), MVG (Munich), HVV (Hamburg)
    DE
  • Italy
    Trenitalia, Trenord (Northern Italy), myCicero (Rome), ATM Milano (Milan)
    IT
  • Switzerland
    SBB, ZVV (Zurich), TPG (Geneva), öV (Bern)
    CH
  • France
    SNCF Connect, Bonjour RATP (Paris)
    FR
  • Spain
    Renfe, Metro de Madrid (Madrid), TMB (Barcelona)
    ES
Well folks, we've reached the end of our travel tips extravaganza. I hope you've enjoyed this wild ride of budget hacks and app recommendations.

But seriously, traveling can be a blast if you know how to do it right. And by right, I mean cheap and comfortable. Who wants to spend a fortune on a stuffy hotel room when you can couch surf for free? Not this gal!

And let's talk about these apps. They're like a secret weapon for the savvy traveler. You can compare prices, book tickets, and even find the best route to the nearest toilet. Yeah, it's that good.

So, in conclusion, travel smart and travel often. Don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. And remember, when in doubt, just ask the locals. They usually know where the good stuff is hidden.

Now go forth and conquer the world! And don't forget to send us a postcard.

BYE <3