Some last minute tips...
--Keep $100 or so hidden in your wallet or a secure place for an emergency.
--Check your ATM/debit card (especially if you just got a new one) before we leave to activite it. Remember there is a transaction fee each time you use it, so in Europe avoid a lot of fees by not drawing out a lot of small amounts, but a subsantial amount at a time. It also saves time by not having to stand in the line at the ATM. Know your ATM code before you leave! Just a note: when I contacted my bank to tell them to expect foreign transactions in France and England, I found out that my ATM card is no longer accepted in Italy, although I used it there 2 years ago. Just check to make sure yours is good in the countries we are visiting.
--Wearing slide-on shoes at airport check in will save time and hassle.
--Also at the metal detectors, you may want to empty your pockets before you get there into a ziploc bag including your keys, coins, wallet, jewelry, cell phone, and belt. Just put the bag in the tray and it keeps your belongings together and speeds through security.
--Also to save time, try to print your boarding pass at home before heading for the airport. If it will not print, then try printing at the kiosk in the airport lobby. However, if you are going to check baggage, then you must go to the check in counter anyway.
--Have your boarding pass and passport ready at security...it saves time.
--Avoid the seduction of watching in flight movies all night. Hours of cinema might sound tempting, but sleep will undoubtedly prove more rewarding. We have a full day of excitement when we land in Paris. But if you do watch in flight movies, then here's what's playing...Last Chance Harvey (to Paris) and Fool's Gold (from London). Choose the month and route traveling from the drop down menu.
--During the flight do isometric exercises, eat light meals, and keep hydrated, but avoid sugary, alcoholic, or cafeinated drinks.
--Travelers to Europe can recoup a percentage of purchase price on goods in the form of value-added tax (VAT). If you are going to purchase a substantial amount, then it might be worth your while.
--Just like makeup and toiletries, carry-on food should be contained in a clear, quart-size ziploc bag if you want to zip through security. Try to get snacks in packages of 3 ounces or less. But you won't need a whole week's worth of snacks. Try those at various stops to get a more authentic taste of our destination...just imagine all the pastry shops in France!
--Don't forget an extra outfit, including toiletries, underwear, and socks in your carry-on in case of delayed baggage. And try packing one set in your roommate's bag...precautionary.
--Bring a large ziploc bag. If small items need washing, put them into the bag, add some soap (shampoo even), shake it up--holding the top closed and voila! Your own little agitator. Allow time for drying. We are in some hotels 2 nights.
--If you carry a small backpack for sightseeing on a day trip, then take twist-ties to secure the zippers together to help prevent pickpocketing.
--Remember that water is free with meals as it is in the states. If you request bottled water, wine, or soft drinks, you will be responsible for payment at all meals.
____
