Everyone close to me knows I have been talking about taking a trip to Europe for several months now. I recently turned 29 and I am contemplating what life is all about. I grew up in S Florida and haven't left the states for any significant period of time. I have had this feeling lately that there is more to life. I have decided to shed all the material possessions that I have at home and take nothing more than a backpack and my flip video on an expedition to Europe.
The purpose of my trip is to meet people raised in different countries, that have different outlooks and perspectives on life, and embrace what makes sense to me. I plan to fly into Rome in the beginning of April and home from Dublin sometime in May. I don't have a "set in stone" itinerary but I plan to visit cities in Italy, Greece, Slovenia, Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic, Holland, Germany, France, Spain, England, and Ireland.
I am currently planning my trip and setting a budget. If anyone has any suggestions please don't hesitate to post them, but this is what I have so far:
1. Get a guidebook- Europe on a shoestring & Rough guide to first time Europe.
2. Use ATM card for funds while traveling (easiest way to get local currency.
3. Youthhostels.com (cheapest rates.. thanks Franco)
4. Upgraded to Amex Platinum card for Concierge service (get assistance from any payphone) will come in handy if lost, cant speak native tongue, or need a last minute room.
5. AT&T reprograms cell phones for European use. Just find an AT&T when I arrive.
6. Purchase a Eurail Global Pass (15 travel days in 2 months)
7. Take a garmin GPS for navigation by foot around Europe.
8. Backpack smaller that 45 linear inches (for size restrictions due to travel)
9. Pick a few must see spots
a. Vatican & Colosseum in Rome
b. Berlin Wall location
c. World famous caves in Slovenia
d. Danube River in Budapest
e. Nightclubs & natural hot water springs in Prague
Now there is so much more to see and for those of you that have been to Europe I am open to suggestions. These are just a few places that I will not miss.
As soon as my flight is booked and I have moved to the next phase of planning I will post an update. I also plan to update this blog twice a week while abroad.
