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While a lot of people choose to visit Europe using a group tour, that doesn't mean that this is the best choice for you! In fact, individuals and families who plan their own European vacations often report that they wouldn't have it any other way. In addition to the benefits of being in control of your own schedule and activities, planning your own European vacation also means that you will save quite a bit of money. However, the key to a successful European vacation is all in the planning. The more you can plan, the more likely you are to have an enjoyable and trouble free stay.
Start Planning
Once you decide that you are going to go to Europe, you should start your vacation planning at least six months in advance. This planning should consist of first choosing a destination and a length of your stay. Once this is determined, immerse yourself in a guidebook or travel website with information about where you will be staying. This is also the best time to start researching different hotels and secure your reservation. If you are feeling even more outgoing, you might even want to start learning the basics of the language of the area where you will be visiting. Six months is plenty of time to learn some conversation basics!
Airfare and Passports
Purchasing your airfare is something that you should take care of about three months in advance of your travel date. When you purchase a few months in advance, you are more likely to get the best deals. Plus, you will have better options when it comes to direct flights and flight times. If you don't already have a passport, now is the time to apply. Without this important document your vacation will never even get started!
Transportation
Once the larger tasks are crossed off of your to-do list, you can start concentrating on the smaller items, such as how you will travel when you get to Europe. You can rent a car or take public transportation, but these arrangements are best made before you leave. Beyond this type of transportation, you will also be doing a lot of walking while you are in Europe. This means that if you don't have a comfortable, sturdy pair of shoes, now is the time to go shopping. Look at the weather forecast and try to determine the type of weather that you will be experiences. If you need any additional items, it is much cheaper to purchase them now and then take them with you rather than try to buy them while you're on vacation.
Other Items to Think About
Before you leave, you also need to determine how you will carry your money. One of the most secure ways to travel is to take traveler's checks. These checks can be replaced in case you run into trouble and lose them. Make sure that you only take the checks and credit cards that you must have; don't take additional cards that could be easily stolen or lost.
Pack your bags a few days before you leave so you have time to remember items that may have been overlooked. Some people find that it is helpful to write a list of items that need to be packed and then check off the list as each item is placed in your suitcase.
Most important: Get ready to have fun! All of this planning was done to make sure that you have a great vacation, so get ready to enjoy yourself!
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