July 9, 2025 • 34 mins
From packing strategies to cultural etiquette, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for a magical European adventure.
1. Packing Light and Smart
- Pack less than you think - You'll be navigating cobblestones, stairs, and trains
- Choose neutral-colored clothing for easy mix-and-match options
- Invest in comfortable, versatile shoes for extensive walking on stone surfaces
- Don't forget multiple EU plug adapters (different from UK adapters)
2. Embracing European Pace
- Dining is slower - tables are yours for the evening, not rushed turnover
- Shops may close midday and reopen later, many close Sundays
- Public transportation varies by country - allow extra time to figure out systems
3. Money and Payment Systems
- Euros accepted in most continental Europe (except UK uses pounds)
- Credit cards widely accepted - notify your bank before traveling
- Use bank-affiliated ATMs for better exchange rates and security
- Public restrooms cost €0.50-€1.00 (often accepting cards)
- Choose dynamic currency conversion at ATMs for better rates
4. Staying Connected
- WiFi is common throughout Europe
- Download essential apps: Google Maps offline, translator, WhatsApp
- Screenshot important information in case you lose service
5. Cultural Etiquette
- Learn basic greetings in the local language
- Be curious, not critical about different customs
- You're a visitor - adapt to local customs, not the other way around
6. Flight Expectations
- Overnight red-eye flights are standard (7-10 hours)
- Jet lag is real - expect to feel off for 1-2 days
- Hydrate well and bring travel comfort items
Expert Tips
- Plan laundry service rather than overpacking
- Don't plan everything - ask locals for restaurant recommendations
- Build in extra days when arriving and returning home
- Consider guided tours with companies like Adventures by Disney or CIE Tours
- Work with travel advisors for ETA applications and country-specific requirements
Visit Wonder and Beyond Travel at wonderandbeyondtravel.com for personalized Europe travel planning.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:00):
Hello, and welcome to all Things
travel.
Traveling to Europe is a must doexperience, but there are
certainly some tips to make thistrip more magical.
Don't worry, we have you coveredwith what you need to know when
traveling across the pond.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:16):
Listen in with travel advisors and
destination experts, Ryan andJulie.
He is your travel professorteaching you everything you need
to know to have a magicalvacation.
And I'm a Disney loving Marylandmom of three and a specialist in
family travel.
whether we're discussingincredible destinations, top
vacation tips, or sharingpersonal stories, it's always
(00:37):
all things travel.
Ryan has been to Europe multipletimes.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:45):
yes.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:46):
been to Europe, but
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:47):
No,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:48):
the biggest question that I always
get is what do we need to knowabout going to Europe?
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:54):
right.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:54):
I tend to rely a lot on Ryan and research
and end up sending my clientsthis whole know before you go
document.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:02):
Sure.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:02):
it'd be a great idea to, go over this and
lead with Ryan's expertise.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:07):
I mean there are, there are certainly
some things that make the tripeasier to know ahead of time.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:14):
Mm-hmm.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:32):
of looking at this with a North
American traveling to Europeslant when we talk about flights
and kind of what to expect mymost recent trip was this past
spring I did a solo trip toGermany for the river cruises.
I don't know when I'm gonna goback, but I've got some ideas
percolating.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:50):
You do, and I have my first trip planned
for next summer.
so this will still be helpful tome.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:58):
Great.
before we start to talk aboutthat, remember sports fans Last
week we talked all about sportstravel and how you can either
participate or spectate yourfavorite sport while traveling.
All right, Julie.
we have several tips today.
what's the first one
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (02:16):
The first one is about packing, so pack
light and pack smart.
pack less than what you think.
You're gonna be traveling on allsorts of surfaces,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (02:27):
I.
j_1_07-01-2025_15 (02:28):
cobblestones, stairs, trains.
You wanna be mindful of thatwhen you're packing you don't
need to have all these fancyoutfits.
I like to tell clients.
neutral colored clothing becausethen you can mix and match quite
a bit easier.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (02:45):
Yeah, I like that mix and match idea.
especially if you're thinkingabout a trip, if you're gonna be
there for a week or 10 days,you're probably gonna be wearing
the same things over or gettingthings wandered, so you don't
need as much as you think.
And I agree with you a hundredpercent about being mobile if
nothing else.
You have to be able to get yourluggage from point A to point B.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:08):
Yes.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:09):
lot of times your hotels may be off the
main street, so they'll let youoff on the main street and then
you've got, half a block whereyou need to carry stuff.
if you're on a train or asubway.
let's say you fly into Heathrowand decide to take the train in,
that's an easy way to do it.
But it's a 45 minute train ridewith your bags.
how do you manage all of thatkind of stuff.
(03:31):
And I tend to overpack to behonest with you.
So I, I would always have aroller suitcase that always
works okay.
But sometimes it's a struggle.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:41):
And you say,'cause I have asked you this
question in the past, you alwaysrecommend doing laundry.
Either your hotel is going tohave a laundry service or
there's going to be somewherethat
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:52):
Yeah,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:53):
correct.
I've
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:54):
yeah, I've done it both ways.
I've left stuff with the hotelor I've just found a laundry,
that will do a bag for a certainamount of euros and just go pick
stuff up.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:04):
And I think that's a great idea, and I
can understand that there mightbe some hesitation, like some
nerves associated with that.
I also like to remind clientsthe please not wear anything
flashy, huge name brands, sportsjerseys, things like that.
I tend to say not a great ideato wear this.
Number one, it really makes youstand out as a tourist.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:26):
Yeah,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:26):
is a
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:27):
and,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:27):
thing you can be a really big target for.
For wearing those things.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:31):
and I don't mind playing the tourist
card, but I want to be able todecide when I can do that.
like asking directions andstuff.
Other than that, even in the USwhen I'm in different places, I
tend to try to be a little lowkey.
so yeah, watching what you wear,Americans just dress more casual
than a lot of Europeans.
especially not in the summermonths.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:54):
around in leggings.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:56):
Yes.
When I used to take the collegestudents, I remember we did run
into that because in the UnitedStates leggings and yoga pants
and all that kind of stuff isgood to go.
And in Europe, we actually hadseveral places we could not go
because that's what people werewearing.
so just keep that in mindful youdo not have to dress up, but you
(05:17):
know, you, you, you're not
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:19):
some pants.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:20):
Yeah.
Athleisure is not a term inEurope.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:24):
yeah, absolutely.
I remember trying to explainthis to clients
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:27):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:27):
they had teenagers coming and they wanted
me to do a call with just theteenagers
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:32):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:32):
them what to know about Europe.
the other thing along with thatis to double check any tours or
things that you may have booked.
For example, something like theVatican or any churches
ryan_1_07-01-2025_1510 (05:42):
Covering your shoulders.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:44):
They're gonna have some stricter
guidelines, making
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:46):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:47):
that.
you wanna have some versatileshoes, something that looks nice
but is comfortable to walk in.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:53):
yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:53):
some shoe shopping
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:54):
Going to Europe, especially as a soon
to be 48-year-old your kneesfeel that, not only are you
walking more, but you're walkingon, stone sidewalks, you're
walking on cobblestone.
I would opt for versatile,comfortable shoes over anything
fancy.
I think it's a must.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:12):
I'm not saying fancy.
I'm saying like
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:13):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:14):
looks nice, that's gonna be neutral,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:16):
Yep.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:16):
the majority of your outfits and not
make you
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:19):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:19):
dressed down.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:20):
But I,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:21):
my running shoes.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:22):
right.
It's not, nobody's gonna mind ifyou're wearing those.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:27):
I have a question about packing, and I
don't know if this is later inthe episode, but what are your
thoughts on, including a plugadapter,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:34):
Yes.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:34):
in Europe.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:36):
yes.
packing several, because I'vehad the situation before where
I've plugged it in and it'spopped immediately.
And so you wanna make sure thatyou have several I.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:45):
what does popped
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:47):
like it, like it blows the circuit.
yeah.
And so I have some that arenormal plugs.
I have some that are plugs thathave the USB ports, I have some
that have both.
So just what are your pluginneeds?
a couple things to think aboutis a EU adapter is different
than a UK adapter, so makingsure you have the correct one.
(07:07):
And in a lot of hotel roomsthere are fewer, plugs.
Although that's getting better.
So, you know, maybe thinkingabout bringing a, an extension
cord or longer charging cords
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (07:20):
Right.
I agree.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (07:22):
But as far as power goes, I have
charged my computer, phones,used my CPAP machine.
There's no problem with that,you just have to have the right
adapter.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (07:32):
Got it.
So one more note, one morecallback to.
How much luggage you're taking.
We talked about having to carryit from one
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (07:43):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (07:43):
to the next, but also considering the
fees that you could incur withsome checked luggage, not only
on your flight, but also if youare taking a certain type of
private transfer taxi train.
I know you had a situationrecently where you had to book a
specific transfer for yourclients in order to fit their
(08:04):
luggage.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (08:05):
Yeah.
and they were not doinganything, they were not doing
anything outside the ordinary.
It was just the situation ofwhere they were and needing to
get to the port.
and again, like you said,thinking about trains, There's
not always gonna be a place tostore the bags away from you.
So what can fit up in an uppercompartment the moral of the
story is packing less and beingable to be mobile will be your
(08:27):
friend on these types of trips.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (08:29):
And that's why I plan to do a
cruise.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (08:33):
So number two, embracing the pace.
This is one of the things that Ilove about going to Europe is
it's just different.
Dining is slower.
coffee shops are slower, and Idon't mean slower service, I
just mean slower pace.
you may have shops depending onwhere you are, that will.
Close for some time in themidday and then stay open later
(08:56):
in the evening.
You'll have a lot of shops thatwill close on Sunday, although
if you're in a big city, that'sless and less.
but I will say the two thingsthat people get annoyed with are
dining and coffee shops.
when you dine in Europe, yourtable is your table, and they're
not trying to turn that tableover like they are in the United
States.
And so you could sit there andhave a two hour dinner if you'd
(09:18):
want to have it, and it'sperfectly fine.
In fact.
It's harder to get the server'sattention because they're not
paying as close attention to youas they are in the United
States.
they also aren't working ontips.
I've had a situation in Spainwhere we had to basically hunt
down our surfer to get ourcheck.
And it's not that she was beingrude, she was letting us have
our dinner.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (09:39):
Wow.
mentioned, uh, that diningthere.
I know that I have been doing alot of dining reservations for
my clients that go to Europe.
Is that something that you tendto recommend?
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (09:52):
I don't tend to dine at those
places necessarily.
I would say if there is a placethat is a must dine.
absolutely do that.
Especially if you are wantingto, dine at a specific
restaurant because it's part ofthe reason you're taking the
trip or if you tend to dine atmore upper level places.
(10:12):
That's just not where I tend todine when I go to Europe, but it
doesn't hurt at all.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (10:17):
these aren't even all upper level
places.
I think it's more so the peaceof mind that they've
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (10:22):
Yeah, sure.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (10:23):
for the reason you said that, like it's
a slow pace.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (10:27):
and obviously the concierge at your
hotel or your hotel staff canhelp with that too if you're
unsure.
And I would say, when you go toEurope, and the same as when I'm
in bigger cities, don't planeverything out because you're
gonna want to ask folks, Hey,where should I get this?
Or, I'm really hungry for thistype of food.
Is there a place around thecorner, walkable that I can get
(10:48):
you'll find some really neatplaces.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (10:50):
yes, I agree with that.
But it around to my type ofclients I work with, it's mostly
families.
So I think having younger kidswith you.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (11:05):
Yeah,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (11:06):
You're not as likely to do something
like that.
You wanna know where you'reeating and make sure it's got
something the kids are gonnaeat.
So I think that's where I runinto a lot more
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (11:15):
sure.
I hear that.
I hear that.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (11:17):
Okay.
What's your last, you gotanother couple more tidbits on
here about embracing the pace.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (11:23):
public transportation is always great,
but each country has a littlequirk making sure that you give
yourself enough time if you'regoing to the subway or the train
for the first time to figure itout.
you know, always use.
The train system as far aspaying for tickets, you can even
(11:44):
do that online most of the timenow.
they're very, they're veryefficient.
a lot of times now you can justtap your credit card.
I've done that in Amsterdam.
I hear That's how you do thetube in England and you're just
tapping in, you're tapping out.
and don't be afraid to askpeople if you really don't know
what you're doing, just findsomebody and ask them.
(12:06):
and it's perfectly fine.
the last thing I would say withthat is.
Don't expect the same 24 7service that you're gonna get in
other places.
I, and overall don't expect thesame, things that you have in
the United States because you'renot in the United States.
So it's okay to embrace theslower pace.
I remember I was sitting inGreece in Nap Leo, on a Sunday
(12:30):
afternoon, with several friendsand the, the wife was almost
uncomfortable.
Because she's like, she wasseeing families, like families
were having dinner and coffeeafter church, and the kids were
just playing and she's like, dothese people just sit here and
this is what they do?
And I'm like, yeah, welcome.
she's like, I don't understand.
why people would just sit aroundI'm like, let's breathe.
(12:53):
this is our job today.
we get to sit in the square andjust relax and embrace that.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (12:59):
she sounds like me.
I have a hard time relaxing, butthis kind of goes along with
embrace the pace something I doalways try to caution clients
with is the hotels and, most ofthe places you're going.
They're not new.
It's
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:15):
No.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:15):
You're not gonna have the most modern
looking or the newest, Softgoods in your hotel.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:22):
and lets you specifically book a
brand that you're loyal to A lotof them are gonna be the three
star type places, and they'reperfectly fine.
They're just not as up to date.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:33):
yes.
I just wanted to mention itbecause I think a lot of times
people are like,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:37):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:37):
oh, this looks a little, and I'm like,
you have to remember, thesebuildings are very old, and
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:42):
Yeah,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:42):
the charm you're looking for here.
You're not looking to stay atthe Four Seasons, in the US it
just isn't like that.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:50):
Tip number three, Julie is a biggie.
We get questions about this allthe time.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:55):
Yes.
understanding money and creditcards and how this works.
euros versus local currencies,go ahead and elaborate on that.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (14:03):
Well, I mean, if we're going to
Europe, most of the countrieswe're gonna be in either their
currency or Euros, or they willtake euros.
The only one we really have toworry about is the UK where they
take pounds every other place.
If you're in continental Europe,they're going to take Europes.
they may not give you the bestexchange rate, but if you're in
(14:24):
a tourist location, they're usedto that and most likely you're
gonna be using your credit cardanyway.
But if you're just going to acoffee shop to get a pastry or a
cup of coffee let's say you'rein Switzerland for the
afternoon, and you just say, doyou take euros?
They're gonna say yes.
knowing what the exchange rateis usually in my mind, I kind of
look at it as for every seven.
(14:47):
Euros.
I'm paying one extra dollar, soit's pretty close.
you look confused.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (14:54):
Yeah, no, I just had to think that one
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (14:55):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (14:56):
second.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (14:57):
So it's pretty close to, the US
dollar.
It's not that much different.
Pounds is a different story.
Pounds is higher so you do haveto take that into account.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (15:05):
Okay.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (15:06):
As the years that I've traveled to
Europe, have gone on creditcards are more and more
accepted.
this last time I was in Europe,it's almost expected that you're
paying with a card.
I would say have small cash forsome of those smaller things if
nothing else, because you may bedinging yourself with a little
card transaction fee back home.
(15:28):
but really you could get throughmost of Europe other than
tipping.
That was the only thing, like iftipping guides and stuff like
that, I kind of ran outta cashat the end and that was really
the only thing that was astruggle.
other than that, I could use mycredit card for anything.
So make sure your credit cardknows that you're traveling.
If you're gonna take money out,if you're using an ATM card,
(15:51):
make sure your bank knows thatyou're gonna be traveling.
speaking of that, let's talkabout, ATMs
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (15:59):
Mm-hmm.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (15:59):
Always use an ATM that's associated
with a bank.
you're less likely to getscammed.
And more likely to have a betterexchange rate.
you can use the counters, butjust be a little wary.
I've always used an ATM andfound that to be better, but
I've used a counter a coupletimes.
One time I was ripped off andthe other time, was perfectly
fine.
(16:20):
the main thing is if you don'tknow the exchange rate and you
don't pay attention to the fees,that's when there's gonna be a
problem.
One thing to keep in mind withATMs is a question that will pop
up do you want dynamic pricing,or dynamic currency conversion?
the answer is yes, because thatis a more favorable exchange
(16:40):
rate because they pay it in thelocal currency.
You're not gonna get ripped offif you say no.
it's just basically gonna giveyou the dower worth of that, of
that amount.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (16:51):
it.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (16:51):
And then when you get home you may
see, small fees for yourdifferent transactions.
So keep that in mind, as you'regoing along.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (16:59):
Mm-hmm.
Mm-hmm.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (17:01):
And this is a biggie.
This is one that we have troublepublic restrooms.
You often pay a euro or 50 centsfor public restrooms.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (17:12):
That is so silly to me.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (17:13):
And you can use credit cards too.
the idea is they're nicerbecause you pay to use them.
Oftentimes if you're in a storeor a shopping center, you can
get, validated for that.
for instance, I was, on our busride to Vienna.
I used the toilet, but then Icould take that to the coffee
shop and reimburse that part fora cup of coffee.
(17:36):
other places you can show yourreceipt, but yeah, that's
something that we're just notused to at all, but.
It's part of it and you just,you know, you kind of chuckle
about it the first time you doit and then it's kind of like,
well, if I've gotta use thebathroom, I'm gonna pay a euro.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (17:49):
Wow.
Interesting.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (17:50):
Julie, so before we talk about our next
couple tips, I wanna talk aboutwhere in the world is all things
travel.
This week when I looked at newlocations that popped up for us
lacrosse, Wisconsin popped up.
La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Looks like a beautiful placealong the Mississippi River.
(18:13):
I want to meet our listener atGranddad Bluff.
It's a bluff providing panoramicvistas of the Mississippi River
Valley and the tri-state area.
It features a picturesque driveand sheltered picnic spots.
I think it'd be really fun,especially in the fall, to check
out the Mississippi River Valleyand just enjoy everything having
(18:37):
to do with Lacrosse, Wisconsin.
Well, hey listener, Reach out tous at Wonder and beyond
travel.com and you can contactus'cause I would love to send a
little thank you gift tolacrosse for being featured on
today's show.
All right.
Just as money has changed,Julie, other things have
(18:58):
changed.
What's the next tip when itcomes to visiting Europe now?
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (19:04):
Staying connected smartly.
So wifi is pretty common inEurope,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (19:10):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (19:10):
and your cellular plan can help you
navigate, translate,communicate.
So it is important to make surethat you are, are doing that in
a smart way, that you're notincurring a lot of unnecessary
fees.
You have a couple options.
You can use an internationalphone plant, an eim, or a local
SIM card.
I don't really understand thesim thing.
(19:31):
My plan is to ask my husbandwhat to do.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (19:33):
Yeah, I mean, I, I used to not travel
with anything, so I would justlive off of wifi and I just both
for my job and personally, Ineed to be more connected than
that when I travelinternationally.
So I just factor in theinternational phone plan as part
of my travel and it's, veryeasy.
when I turn my phone offairplane mode, when I land, it
(19:56):
just says, congratulations,you're in another country.
and it charges me 12 hours a dayand it caps it at$120.
basically at 10 days.
and I can use my phone just likeany other time.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:10):
if you needed a laptop you could
probably hotspot
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:12):
that's what I do.
I, if I'm not on wifi, once I'mat my accommodations, I just
hotspot off my phone.
I've never had any trouble,especially when you're in these
smaller towns using Google Mapsand the walking directions are
really, really helpful.
So I just factor that into thecost of my travel now.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:31):
I really love this next tip to download
apps that you want to have
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:35):
Yes,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:36):
So apps like Google Maps, the Translator
app, WhatsApp WhatsApp might bewhat you use to communicate with
others in your party there, orpeople back home.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:47):
Well, most outside the United States,
most people use WhatsApp.
anytime you're connecting with arestaurant or your hotel or
something like that.
Yeah, what WhatsApp is gonna be,so, so you should have that
anyway.
and then what I do too, Julie,and this is me being kind of a
geek, is if I have a, a app thatI know I'm gonna be using a lot
(21:08):
I always change the home screento have that right in front.
whatever airline I'm on, I justhave that stuff.
If for nothing else, then I cansee the notifications pop up if
I need to.
yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:19):
some of the trains have apps.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:22):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:23):
like that you might need.
with our new agency and our newback office, we also have an app
available that you could accessyour itinerary, so
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:31):
Yeah, everything will be right there.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:33):
And beyond the apps, something else
that might be helpful if you arein a situation where you don't
have service is to screenshotthings and save them to photos.
So if you pull up and mapsomething and you're worried
about losing that service, goahead and screenshot it.
maybe if you wanna screenshotany of your reservations or
flight information,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:52):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:53):
as a screenshot.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:54):
And speaking of Google Maps, You can
actually download maps to beoffline.
You obviously can't search newthings, but you can have
sections of maps that you canget to.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (22:05):
Okay.
I'm just gonna follow whoeverI'm with.
I am not a map person.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (22:11):
tip number five, and this one is
near and dear one to my heart.
You learn some local etiquetteand I guess by that.
Be a good traveler.
Again, you're not in the UnitedStates.
I was with a group of people andone of the guys in our group was
so frustrated in a Greek airportthat he could not use his TSA
(22:33):
pre-check.
He just didn't understand why hehad to do all this stuff.
And I'm like,'cause you're notin the United States.
we as.
Folks from the United States, weare always the loudest in a
restaurant.
We always take up the most spacein the subway.
So just kind of think about, howyou are and you can, talk back,
(22:53):
well, you know, I shouldn't haveto accommodate, but I.
you kind of do, I mean, you're avisitor to their country, so,
thinking about how to say Goodmorning or hello or thank you in
the, language that you'revisiting.
it just helps.
And I just think I really getfrustrated when I see,
especially Americans, because wehave a bad reputation when it
(23:18):
comes to visiting Europe.
it really bothers me when I kindof see that play out.
And so I really try to not bethat way and folks that I travel
with not be that way because Ithink You not only learn more
and observe more, but I thinkyou just have a better
experience when you're justtrying to go with where you are
rather than a square peg in around hole, if you will.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (23:40):
that's helping you be more immersed in
where you are.
You want to feel like you're apart of that culture for a
little bit.
You're there to experience it.
You're there to learn about it.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (23:50):
What is our last tip, Julie?
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (23:54):
So know what to expect with your
flights.
Most flights from the US toEurope are overnight red eyes.
you leave in the evening UStime, and arrive in the morning
Europe time,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:07):
Right.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:07):
the middle of the night for
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:09):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:09):
is something I always stress to my
clients when we're booking ourflights.
If you are.
Check in date for your hotel is,you know, July 1st.
Book your flight for June 30th,not July 1st.
You will
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:24):
Yep.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:24):
depart on the 30th and arrive on the
first.
jet lag is very real.
expect to feel a little off forthe first day or two.
That doesn't mean that you'renot gonna enjoy yourself.
Just expect that you're gonnafeel a little bit different, and
that's okay.
And.
I always try to accommodate forthat when I'm planning
itineraries for clients, notdoing anything super crazy that
(24:44):
first two days, kind of waitingtill that third day, maybe for
the really big tour, not doingany long tours that first full
day in country.
your flight times are gonnarange anywhere from seven to 10
hours, depending on departure,destination, cities, any lay
layovers you have.
Typically, if you're having alayover, it's gonna be London,
(25:06):
Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam.
I've had a couple in Viennarecently.
maybe you have enough of alayover that you can go explore
outside of the airport.
when you're on the plane andyou're on this long overnight
flight, try to sleep if you can.
bring things like a travelpillow, eye mask, earplug,
something like that, and beaware of others around you.
(25:29):
Like if you're trying to watch amovie or put on a sound machine,
please put on your headphones.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (25:35):
I actually.
On a flight like this, I willwear my noise canceling
headphones, the entire flight,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (25:42):
I
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (25:43):
even if I'm not listened to anything
just for noise reduction.
And it really helps me relax.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (25:48):
Wow.
You obviously don't travel withlittle kids.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (25:53):
I hardly ever sleep on a flight.
Unless I'm completely exhausted.
So for me, any sleep is bonussleep.
this last trip to Germany, Ididn't sleep at all.
but I knew that first day if Itried to sleep during the day,
it was gonna throw me all off.
j_1_07-01-2025_1510 (26:10):
Absolutely.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:11):
on a trip several years ago to
Amsterdam, I woke up at six inthe morning in Indiana.
I went to bed at midnight thenext day in Amsterdam, I just
powered through.
But the advantage to that is bythe second day and definitely
the third day, you're really onEuropean time.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:34):
that is good.
along with that, build into yourschedule don't try to do this in
a short trip.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:41):
I know
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:41):
your
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:41):
you're thinking about how do I do this
with littles and I don't havethe answer to that.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:45):
Build into your schedule an extra day
when you
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:49):
Yes.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:49):
in the new country and an extra day or
two when you come back home,come home on like a Friday.
So you've got that Saturday andSunday for you to recover, your
kids to recover, before schooland work and all those things
start.
that's a real big help.
you also wanna make sure you'rehydrating on your flight.
Don't have heavy meals, bringlots of snacks
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:13):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:13):
I know it's tempting, but skip the
alcohol.
You're just not gonna feel greaton the first couple days if you
don't do those things,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:19):
on the flight, the times I have been
able to sleep, I haven't eatenthat evening meal
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:24):
Mm-hmm.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:24):
not gonna serve it till like 10
o'clock.
your clock is completely off and
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:28):
Yeah.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:29):
feed you a meal And then they turn
the lights out and like threehours later they're like, it's
morning time and the lights comeon and it's breakfast time.
I know you're ready to startyour vacation, but just think
about what's the best way to,uh.
Kind of regulate your eating anddrinking before you get there.
Alright, Julie, I talked aboutmy top six tips here.
What other questions do you havewhen you're thinking about
(27:51):
either your family or folksheading to Europe for the first
time?
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:55):
Something I hear all the time is, should I
get one of those under theclothes belt bags?
What is your thought on that?
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:03):
When I first traveled to Europe, I
always had one.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:05):
Mm-hmm.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:06):
Now I just keep things hidden.
so like if I'm wearing, I don'ttend to go in the summertime, so
I always have a coat on.
I'll have my, wallet and stuffin an inside pocket, and I've
never had any trouble with that.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:21):
is someone's first time and they
are going in the summer, do yousuggest those belt bags.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:26):
I prefer to have the ones that
hang over the neck.
They're just more comfortablethan the belt bags, but
something that can conceal whereyour money is because
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:33):
Got
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:33):
you know,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:34):
You know?
ryan_1_07-01-2025_1 (28:34):
pickpockets are real.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:36):
Yeah.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:36):
But what I would say too with that
is I might keep some cash andmaybe even one of my cards.
In a zipped pocket because Idon't wanna always be reaching
into that concealed bag.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:52):
Got it.
That makes sense.
the other thing I wanna mentionis the ETA applications.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:58):
Yep.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:59):
just putting together a client
packet.
so there's a couple differenttypes of, applications that are
starting to pop up.
This is not something outta theordinary just for our guests to
know.
It's not outta the ordinary.
A lot of countries do this.
it is just like filling out acustoms form.
Basically, when you go to a newcountry, it's that they want you
to do it online before you go.
(29:20):
So there's a UK ETA.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:23):
as of right now, there's uk but
there's not eu.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:27):
But what's odd, Ryan is the client
packet I was just working on wasfor Italy it came directly from
the supplier and had all thatinformation on it.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:37):
Okay.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:37):
Okay.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:38):
Well, and that's one of those things
where, you know, they say it'scoming, they say it's coming,
they say it's coming.
So as a traveler, you need to beon top of that or work with, an
advisor who's on top of that.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:49):
Yeah.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:49):
I know all of my folks who have gone to
the UK said that applicationprocess was simple.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:55):
Yes.
Very simple.
Just make sure you're going tothe correct websites.
and that goes for country you'regoing to,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:02):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:02):
just Europe, because there are a lot
of different options that aregoing to potentially charge you
different than what is actuallyrequired.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:09):
And ignorance is not, an exception.
They don't care if you say youdon't know.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:15):
Yes.
This whole episode makes me sayyou cannot understand the
benefits of working with atravel advisor.
Like we cannot say them enough.
Right?
I'm not just saying that becausewe are travel advisors.
If I was not a travel advisor, Iwould be terrified to go to
Europe for the first
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:33):
or you would be reading, 10,000
Facebook groups and blogs andmaybe you're not getting the
right information.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:40):
yes.
Because like I said, even thoughI have not been for my clients,
I'm doing all sorts of research.
I'm making documents for them toknow before you go.
not only are we there for you asa resource, but if you're on a
tour or working with a specifictour company and you have a
guide with you, that's someoneto literally help you step of
the way while you were there.
(31:01):
And it just like, you cannotdiscount the help that that can
be working with a company.
I'm thinking of Kensington, I'mthinking of CIE tours.
adventures by Disney.
Somebody who has a guide withyou as you go to, to assist you
and.
Give you money for the publicrestroom or tell you
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (31:17):
A,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (31:18):
for dinner,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (31:19):
and they do, you know,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (31:21):
know?
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151 (31:21):
Traveling with my family with Adventures
by Disney.
they've got the Euros for thebathroom, they've got the shawls
for the Vatican, if you forgotthem.
I mean, they know that stuff.
And they specifically work withmostly North American guests.
so they kind of know what someof these stumbling blocks could
be.
j_1_07-01-2025_1510 (31:41):
Absolutely.
if you are any sort of nervoustraveler, reach out to us and we
will provide you with all thisinformation.
I have a lot of clientstraveling to Europe this summer
specifically, it's been a verypopular destination and with all
of them, we've had a lot ofphone calls, a lot of emails,
text messages exchanged aboutvarious questions that they have
(32:02):
as we get closer and.
happy to be able to ease theirnerves when that happens.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:09):
So Julie, you talked about your
next, plans for Europe travel,or your first plans rather.
What are they?
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:18):
Currently we have booked to go on the
Disney Dream on a Mediterraneancruise for next summer.
I hope it happens.
we'll see.
it's a long way off still.
but.
is probably the number one placethat I want to go.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:36):
Sure.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:36):
has a lot of heritage there and I mean, it
just looks beautiful.
It's so historic.
it's just number one on mydestination list I
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:44):
right.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:44):
to.
Uh, as a family with young kids,a cruise seemed like the easiest
right now.
We don't have to pack up, goanywhere.
The kids have familiar food oncethey get back on the ship.
we've been on a Disney cruise,so it takes out that guessing
factor of what are ouraccommodations gonna be like.
It just eases a lot of things, Ithink, to do that.
(33:05):
and of course Disney because.
The kids will be comfortablethere.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (33:09):
I totally agree.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (33:10):
But I know I'm going to be leaning on
Ryan as we get closer asking allsorts of random
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (33:15):
Y you know, for a very modest fee.
I'm happy to, um, to travelalong.
And by modest I mean allexpenses paid.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (33:26):
You're too much.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (33:27):
The world is full of wonder and your
next great adventure is waitingat Wonder and Beyond Travel.
We work with you to create a oneof a kind journey, taking the
stress off your plate so you canfocus on the joy of exploring
and the memories that will lastyou forever.
If you're ready to startplanning or you just wanna dream
a little bigger, head over toWonder and beyond Travel, we
(33:50):
would love to help you getstarted.
You can reach us at Wonder andbeyond travel.com.
We look forward to talking toyou next week on All Things
Travel.
When we discuss nostalgic WaltDisney World,
Hello, and welcome to all Things
travel.
Traveling to Europe is a must doexperience, but there are
certainly some tips to make thistrip more magical.
Don't worry, we have you coveredwith what you need to know when
traveling across the pond.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:16):
Listen in with travel advisors and
destination experts, Ryan andJulie.
He is your travel professorteaching you everything you need
to know to have a magicalvacation.
And I'm a Disney loving Marylandmom of three and a specialist in
family travel.
whether we're discussingincredible destinations, top
vacation tips, or sharingpersonal stories, it's always
(00:37):
all things travel.
Ryan has been to Europe multipletimes.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:45):
yes.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:46):
been to Europe, but
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:47):
No,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:48):
the biggest question that I always
get is what do we need to knowabout going to Europe?
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:54):
right.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (00:54):
I tend to rely a lot on Ryan and research
and end up sending my clientsthis whole know before you go
document.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:02):
Sure.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:02):
it'd be a great idea to, go over this and
lead with Ryan's expertise.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:07):
I mean there are, there are certainly
some things that make the tripeasier to know ahead of time.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:14):
Mm-hmm.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:32):
of looking at this with a North
American traveling to Europeslant when we talk about flights
and kind of what to expect mymost recent trip was this past
spring I did a solo trip toGermany for the river cruises.
I don't know when I'm gonna goback, but I've got some ideas
percolating.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:50):
You do, and I have my first trip planned
for next summer.
so this will still be helpful tome.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (01:58):
Great.
before we start to talk aboutthat, remember sports fans Last
week we talked all about sportstravel and how you can either
participate or spectate yourfavorite sport while traveling.
All right, Julie.
we have several tips today.
what's the first one
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (02:16):
The first one is about packing, so pack
light and pack smart.
pack less than what you think.
You're gonna be traveling on allsorts of surfaces,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (02:27):
I.
j_1_07-01-2025_15 (02:28):
cobblestones, stairs, trains.
You wanna be mindful of thatwhen you're packing you don't
need to have all these fancyoutfits.
I like to tell clients.
neutral colored clothing becausethen you can mix and match quite
a bit easier.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (02:45):
Yeah, I like that mix and match idea.
especially if you're thinkingabout a trip, if you're gonna be
there for a week or 10 days,you're probably gonna be wearing
the same things over or gettingthings wandered, so you don't
need as much as you think.
And I agree with you a hundredpercent about being mobile if
nothing else.
You have to be able to get yourluggage from point A to point B.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:08):
Yes.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:09):
lot of times your hotels may be off the
main street, so they'll let youoff on the main street and then
you've got, half a block whereyou need to carry stuff.
if you're on a train or asubway.
let's say you fly into Heathrowand decide to take the train in,
that's an easy way to do it.
But it's a 45 minute train ridewith your bags.
how do you manage all of thatkind of stuff.
(03:31):
And I tend to overpack to behonest with you.
So I, I would always have aroller suitcase that always
works okay.
But sometimes it's a struggle.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:41):
And you say,'cause I have asked you this
question in the past, you alwaysrecommend doing laundry.
Either your hotel is going tohave a laundry service or
there's going to be somewherethat
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:52):
Yeah,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:53):
correct.
I've
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (03:54):
yeah, I've done it both ways.
I've left stuff with the hotelor I've just found a laundry,
that will do a bag for a certainamount of euros and just go pick
stuff up.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:04):
And I think that's a great idea, and I
can understand that there mightbe some hesitation, like some
nerves associated with that.
I also like to remind clientsthe please not wear anything
flashy, huge name brands, sportsjerseys, things like that.
I tend to say not a great ideato wear this.
Number one, it really makes youstand out as a tourist.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:26):
Yeah,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:26):
is a
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:27):
and,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:27):
thing you can be a really big target for.
For wearing those things.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:31):
and I don't mind playing the tourist
card, but I want to be able todecide when I can do that.
like asking directions andstuff.
Other than that, even in the USwhen I'm in different places, I
tend to try to be a little lowkey.
so yeah, watching what you wear,Americans just dress more casual
than a lot of Europeans.
especially not in the summermonths.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:54):
around in leggings.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (04:56):
Yes.
When I used to take the collegestudents, I remember we did run
into that because in the UnitedStates leggings and yoga pants
and all that kind of stuff isgood to go.
And in Europe, we actually hadseveral places we could not go
because that's what people werewearing.
so just keep that in mindful youdo not have to dress up, but you
(05:17):
know, you, you, you're not
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:19):
some pants.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:20):
Yeah.
Athleisure is not a term inEurope.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:24):
yeah, absolutely.
I remember trying to explainthis to clients
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:27):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:27):
they had teenagers coming and they wanted
me to do a call with just theteenagers
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:32):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:32):
them what to know about Europe.
the other thing along with thatis to double check any tours or
things that you may have booked.
For example, something like theVatican or any churches
ryan_1_07-01-2025_1510 (05:42):
Covering your shoulders.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:44):
They're gonna have some stricter
guidelines, making
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:46):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:47):
that.
you wanna have some versatileshoes, something that looks nice
but is comfortable to walk in.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:53):
yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:53):
some shoe shopping
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (05:54):
Going to Europe, especially as a soon
to be 48-year-old your kneesfeel that, not only are you
walking more, but you're walkingon, stone sidewalks, you're
walking on cobblestone.
I would opt for versatile,comfortable shoes over anything
fancy.
I think it's a must.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:12):
I'm not saying fancy.
I'm saying like
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:13):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:14):
looks nice, that's gonna be neutral,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:16):
Yep.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:16):
the majority of your outfits and not
make you
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:19):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:19):
dressed down.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:20):
But I,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:21):
my running shoes.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:22):
right.
It's not, nobody's gonna mind ifyou're wearing those.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:27):
I have a question about packing, and I
don't know if this is later inthe episode, but what are your
thoughts on, including a plugadapter,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:34):
Yes.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:34):
in Europe.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:36):
yes.
packing several, because I'vehad the situation before where
I've plugged it in and it'spopped immediately.
And so you wanna make sure thatyou have several I.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:45):
what does popped
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (06:47):
like it, like it blows the circuit.
yeah.
And so I have some that arenormal plugs.
I have some that are plugs thathave the USB ports, I have some
that have both.
So just what are your pluginneeds?
a couple things to think aboutis a EU adapter is different
than a UK adapter, so makingsure you have the correct one.
(07:07):
And in a lot of hotel roomsthere are fewer, plugs.
Although that's getting better.
So, you know, maybe thinkingabout bringing a, an extension
cord or longer charging cords
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (07:20):
Right.
I agree.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (07:22):
But as far as power goes, I have
charged my computer, phones,used my CPAP machine.
There's no problem with that,you just have to have the right
adapter.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (07:32):
Got it.
So one more note, one morecallback to.
How much luggage you're taking.
We talked about having to carryit from one
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (07:43):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (07:43):
to the next, but also considering the
fees that you could incur withsome checked luggage, not only
on your flight, but also if youare taking a certain type of
private transfer taxi train.
I know you had a situationrecently where you had to book a
specific transfer for yourclients in order to fit their
(08:04):
luggage.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (08:05):
Yeah.
and they were not doinganything, they were not doing
anything outside the ordinary.
It was just the situation ofwhere they were and needing to
get to the port.
and again, like you said,thinking about trains, There's
not always gonna be a place tostore the bags away from you.
So what can fit up in an uppercompartment the moral of the
story is packing less and beingable to be mobile will be your
(08:27):
friend on these types of trips.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (08:29):
And that's why I plan to do a
cruise.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (08:33):
So number two, embracing the pace.
This is one of the things that Ilove about going to Europe is
it's just different.
Dining is slower.
coffee shops are slower, and Idon't mean slower service, I
just mean slower pace.
you may have shops depending onwhere you are, that will.
Close for some time in themidday and then stay open later
(08:56):
in the evening.
You'll have a lot of shops thatwill close on Sunday, although
if you're in a big city, that'sless and less.
but I will say the two thingsthat people get annoyed with are
dining and coffee shops.
when you dine in Europe, yourtable is your table, and they're
not trying to turn that tableover like they are in the United
States.
And so you could sit there andhave a two hour dinner if you'd
(09:18):
want to have it, and it'sperfectly fine.
In fact.
It's harder to get the server'sattention because they're not
paying as close attention to youas they are in the United
States.
they also aren't working ontips.
I've had a situation in Spainwhere we had to basically hunt
down our surfer to get ourcheck.
And it's not that she was beingrude, she was letting us have
our dinner.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (09:39):
Wow.
mentioned, uh, that diningthere.
I know that I have been doing alot of dining reservations for
my clients that go to Europe.
Is that something that you tendto recommend?
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (09:52):
I don't tend to dine at those
places necessarily.
I would say if there is a placethat is a must dine.
absolutely do that.
Especially if you are wantingto, dine at a specific
restaurant because it's part ofthe reason you're taking the
trip or if you tend to dine atmore upper level places.
(10:12):
That's just not where I tend todine when I go to Europe, but it
doesn't hurt at all.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (10:17):
these aren't even all upper level
places.
I think it's more so the peaceof mind that they've
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (10:22):
Yeah, sure.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (10:23):
for the reason you said that, like it's
a slow pace.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (10:27):
and obviously the concierge at your
hotel or your hotel staff canhelp with that too if you're
unsure.
And I would say, when you go toEurope, and the same as when I'm
in bigger cities, don't planeverything out because you're
gonna want to ask folks, Hey,where should I get this?
Or, I'm really hungry for thistype of food.
Is there a place around thecorner, walkable that I can get
(10:48):
you'll find some really neatplaces.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (10:50):
yes, I agree with that.
But it around to my type ofclients I work with, it's mostly
families.
So I think having younger kidswith you.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (11:05):
Yeah,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (11:06):
You're not as likely to do something
like that.
You wanna know where you'reeating and make sure it's got
something the kids are gonnaeat.
So I think that's where I runinto a lot more
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (11:15):
sure.
I hear that.
I hear that.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (11:17):
Okay.
What's your last, you gotanother couple more tidbits on
here about embracing the pace.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (11:23):
public transportation is always great,
but each country has a littlequirk making sure that you give
yourself enough time if you'regoing to the subway or the train
for the first time to figure itout.
you know, always use.
The train system as far aspaying for tickets, you can even
(11:44):
do that online most of the timenow.
they're very, they're veryefficient.
a lot of times now you can justtap your credit card.
I've done that in Amsterdam.
I hear That's how you do thetube in England and you're just
tapping in, you're tapping out.
and don't be afraid to askpeople if you really don't know
what you're doing, just findsomebody and ask them.
(12:06):
and it's perfectly fine.
the last thing I would say withthat is.
Don't expect the same 24 7service that you're gonna get in
other places.
I, and overall don't expect thesame, things that you have in
the United States because you'renot in the United States.
So it's okay to embrace theslower pace.
I remember I was sitting inGreece in Nap Leo, on a Sunday
(12:30):
afternoon, with several friendsand the, the wife was almost
uncomfortable.
Because she's like, she wasseeing families, like families
were having dinner and coffeeafter church, and the kids were
just playing and she's like, dothese people just sit here and
this is what they do?
And I'm like, yeah, welcome.
she's like, I don't understand.
why people would just sit aroundI'm like, let's breathe.
(12:53):
this is our job today.
we get to sit in the square andjust relax and embrace that.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (12:59):
she sounds like me.
I have a hard time relaxing, butthis kind of goes along with
embrace the pace something I doalways try to caution clients
with is the hotels and, most ofthe places you're going.
They're not new.
It's
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:15):
No.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:15):
You're not gonna have the most modern
looking or the newest, Softgoods in your hotel.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:22):
and lets you specifically book a
brand that you're loyal to A lotof them are gonna be the three
star type places, and they'reperfectly fine.
They're just not as up to date.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:33):
yes.
I just wanted to mention itbecause I think a lot of times
people are like,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:37):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:37):
oh, this looks a little, and I'm like,
you have to remember, thesebuildings are very old, and
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:42):
Yeah,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:42):
the charm you're looking for here.
You're not looking to stay atthe Four Seasons, in the US it
just isn't like that.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:50):
Tip number three, Julie is a biggie.
We get questions about this allthe time.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (13:55):
Yes.
understanding money and creditcards and how this works.
euros versus local currencies,go ahead and elaborate on that.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (14:03):
Well, I mean, if we're going to
Europe, most of the countrieswe're gonna be in either their
currency or Euros, or they willtake euros.
The only one we really have toworry about is the UK where they
take pounds every other place.
If you're in continental Europe,they're going to take Europes.
they may not give you the bestexchange rate, but if you're in
(14:24):
a tourist location, they're usedto that and most likely you're
gonna be using your credit cardanyway.
But if you're just going to acoffee shop to get a pastry or a
cup of coffee let's say you'rein Switzerland for the
afternoon, and you just say, doyou take euros?
They're gonna say yes.
knowing what the exchange rateis usually in my mind, I kind of
look at it as for every seven.
(14:47):
Euros.
I'm paying one extra dollar, soit's pretty close.
you look confused.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (14:54):
Yeah, no, I just had to think that one
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (14:55):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (14:56):
second.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (14:57):
So it's pretty close to, the US
dollar.
It's not that much different.
Pounds is a different story.
Pounds is higher so you do haveto take that into account.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (15:05):
Okay.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (15:06):
As the years that I've traveled to
Europe, have gone on creditcards are more and more
accepted.
this last time I was in Europe,it's almost expected that you're
paying with a card.
I would say have small cash forsome of those smaller things if
nothing else, because you may bedinging yourself with a little
card transaction fee back home.
(15:28):
but really you could get throughmost of Europe other than
tipping.
That was the only thing, like iftipping guides and stuff like
that, I kind of ran outta cashat the end and that was really
the only thing that was astruggle.
other than that, I could use mycredit card for anything.
So make sure your credit cardknows that you're traveling.
If you're gonna take money out,if you're using an ATM card,
(15:51):
make sure your bank knows thatyou're gonna be traveling.
speaking of that, let's talkabout, ATMs
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (15:59):
Mm-hmm.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (15:59):
Always use an ATM that's associated
with a bank.
you're less likely to getscammed.
And more likely to have a betterexchange rate.
you can use the counters, butjust be a little wary.
I've always used an ATM andfound that to be better, but
I've used a counter a coupletimes.
One time I was ripped off andthe other time, was perfectly
fine.
(16:20):
the main thing is if you don'tknow the exchange rate and you
don't pay attention to the fees,that's when there's gonna be a
problem.
One thing to keep in mind withATMs is a question that will pop
up do you want dynamic pricing,or dynamic currency conversion?
the answer is yes, because thatis a more favorable exchange
(16:40):
rate because they pay it in thelocal currency.
You're not gonna get ripped offif you say no.
it's just basically gonna giveyou the dower worth of that, of
that amount.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (16:51):
it.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (16:51):
And then when you get home you may
see, small fees for yourdifferent transactions.
So keep that in mind, as you'regoing along.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (16:59):
Mm-hmm.
Mm-hmm.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (17:01):
And this is a biggie.
This is one that we have troublepublic restrooms.
You often pay a euro or 50 centsfor public restrooms.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (17:12):
That is so silly to me.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (17:13):
And you can use credit cards too.
the idea is they're nicerbecause you pay to use them.
Oftentimes if you're in a storeor a shopping center, you can
get, validated for that.
for instance, I was, on our busride to Vienna.
I used the toilet, but then Icould take that to the coffee
shop and reimburse that part fora cup of coffee.
(17:36):
other places you can show yourreceipt, but yeah, that's
something that we're just notused to at all, but.
It's part of it and you just,you know, you kind of chuckle
about it the first time you doit and then it's kind of like,
well, if I've gotta use thebathroom, I'm gonna pay a euro.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (17:49):
Wow.
Interesting.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (17:50):
Julie, so before we talk about our next
couple tips, I wanna talk aboutwhere in the world is all things
travel.
This week when I looked at newlocations that popped up for us
lacrosse, Wisconsin popped up.
La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Looks like a beautiful placealong the Mississippi River.
(18:13):
I want to meet our listener atGranddad Bluff.
It's a bluff providing panoramicvistas of the Mississippi River
Valley and the tri-state area.
It features a picturesque driveand sheltered picnic spots.
I think it'd be really fun,especially in the fall, to check
out the Mississippi River Valleyand just enjoy everything having
(18:37):
to do with Lacrosse, Wisconsin.
Well, hey listener, Reach out tous at Wonder and beyond
travel.com and you can contactus'cause I would love to send a
little thank you gift tolacrosse for being featured on
today's show.
All right.
Just as money has changed,Julie, other things have
(18:58):
changed.
What's the next tip when itcomes to visiting Europe now?
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (19:04):
Staying connected smartly.
So wifi is pretty common inEurope,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (19:10):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (19:10):
and your cellular plan can help you
navigate, translate,communicate.
So it is important to make surethat you are, are doing that in
a smart way, that you're notincurring a lot of unnecessary
fees.
You have a couple options.
You can use an internationalphone plant, an eim, or a local
SIM card.
I don't really understand thesim thing.
(19:31):
My plan is to ask my husbandwhat to do.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (19:33):
Yeah, I mean, I, I used to not travel
with anything, so I would justlive off of wifi and I just both
for my job and personally, Ineed to be more connected than
that when I travelinternationally.
So I just factor in theinternational phone plan as part
of my travel and it's, veryeasy.
when I turn my phone offairplane mode, when I land, it
(19:56):
just says, congratulations,you're in another country.
and it charges me 12 hours a dayand it caps it at$120.
basically at 10 days.
and I can use my phone just likeany other time.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:10):
if you needed a laptop you could
probably hotspot
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:12):
that's what I do.
I, if I'm not on wifi, once I'mat my accommodations, I just
hotspot off my phone.
I've never had any trouble,especially when you're in these
smaller towns using Google Mapsand the walking directions are
really, really helpful.
So I just factor that into thecost of my travel now.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:31):
I really love this next tip to download
apps that you want to have
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:35):
Yes,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:36):
So apps like Google Maps, the Translator
app, WhatsApp WhatsApp might bewhat you use to communicate with
others in your party there, orpeople back home.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (20:47):
Well, most outside the United States,
most people use WhatsApp.
anytime you're connecting with arestaurant or your hotel or
something like that.
Yeah, what WhatsApp is gonna be,so, so you should have that
anyway.
and then what I do too, Julie,and this is me being kind of a
geek, is if I have a, a app thatI know I'm gonna be using a lot
(21:08):
I always change the home screento have that right in front.
whatever airline I'm on, I justhave that stuff.
If for nothing else, then I cansee the notifications pop up if
I need to.
yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:19):
some of the trains have apps.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:22):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:23):
like that you might need.
with our new agency and our newback office, we also have an app
available that you could accessyour itinerary, so
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:31):
Yeah, everything will be right there.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:33):
And beyond the apps, something else
that might be helpful if you arein a situation where you don't
have service is to screenshotthings and save them to photos.
So if you pull up and mapsomething and you're worried
about losing that service, goahead and screenshot it.
maybe if you wanna screenshotany of your reservations or
flight information,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:52):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:53):
as a screenshot.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (21:54):
And speaking of Google Maps, You can
actually download maps to beoffline.
You obviously can't search newthings, but you can have
sections of maps that you canget to.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (22:05):
Okay.
I'm just gonna follow whoeverI'm with.
I am not a map person.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (22:11):
tip number five, and this one is
near and dear one to my heart.
You learn some local etiquetteand I guess by that.
Be a good traveler.
Again, you're not in the UnitedStates.
I was with a group of people andone of the guys in our group was
so frustrated in a Greek airportthat he could not use his TSA
(22:33):
pre-check.
He just didn't understand why hehad to do all this stuff.
And I'm like,'cause you're notin the United States.
we as.
Folks from the United States, weare always the loudest in a
restaurant.
We always take up the most spacein the subway.
So just kind of think about, howyou are and you can, talk back,
(22:53):
well, you know, I shouldn't haveto accommodate, but I.
you kind of do, I mean, you're avisitor to their country, so,
thinking about how to say Goodmorning or hello or thank you in
the, language that you'revisiting.
it just helps.
And I just think I really getfrustrated when I see,
especially Americans, because wehave a bad reputation when it
(23:18):
comes to visiting Europe.
it really bothers me when I kindof see that play out.
And so I really try to not bethat way and folks that I travel
with not be that way because Ithink You not only learn more
and observe more, but I thinkyou just have a better
experience when you're justtrying to go with where you are
rather than a square peg in around hole, if you will.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (23:40):
that's helping you be more immersed in
where you are.
You want to feel like you're apart of that culture for a
little bit.
You're there to experience it.
You're there to learn about it.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (23:50):
What is our last tip, Julie?
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (23:54):
So know what to expect with your
flights.
Most flights from the US toEurope are overnight red eyes.
you leave in the evening UStime, and arrive in the morning
Europe time,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:07):
Right.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:07):
the middle of the night for
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:09):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:09):
is something I always stress to my
clients when we're booking ourflights.
If you are.
Check in date for your hotel is,you know, July 1st.
Book your flight for June 30th,not July 1st.
You will
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:24):
Yep.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (24:24):
depart on the 30th and arrive on the
first.
jet lag is very real.
expect to feel a little off forthe first day or two.
That doesn't mean that you'renot gonna enjoy yourself.
Just expect that you're gonnafeel a little bit different, and
that's okay.
And.
I always try to accommodate forthat when I'm planning
itineraries for clients, notdoing anything super crazy that
(24:44):
first two days, kind of waitingtill that third day, maybe for
the really big tour, not doingany long tours that first full
day in country.
your flight times are gonnarange anywhere from seven to 10
hours, depending on departure,destination, cities, any lay
layovers you have.
Typically, if you're having alayover, it's gonna be London,
(25:06):
Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam.
I've had a couple in Viennarecently.
maybe you have enough of alayover that you can go explore
outside of the airport.
when you're on the plane andyou're on this long overnight
flight, try to sleep if you can.
bring things like a travelpillow, eye mask, earplug,
something like that, and beaware of others around you.
(25:29):
Like if you're trying to watch amovie or put on a sound machine,
please put on your headphones.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (25:35):
I actually.
On a flight like this, I willwear my noise canceling
headphones, the entire flight,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (25:42):
I
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (25:43):
even if I'm not listened to anything
just for noise reduction.
And it really helps me relax.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (25:48):
Wow.
You obviously don't travel withlittle kids.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (25:53):
I hardly ever sleep on a flight.
Unless I'm completely exhausted.
So for me, any sleep is bonussleep.
this last trip to Germany, Ididn't sleep at all.
but I knew that first day if Itried to sleep during the day,
it was gonna throw me all off.
j_1_07-01-2025_1510 (26:10):
Absolutely.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:11):
on a trip several years ago to
Amsterdam, I woke up at six inthe morning in Indiana.
I went to bed at midnight thenext day in Amsterdam, I just
powered through.
But the advantage to that is bythe second day and definitely
the third day, you're really onEuropean time.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:34):
that is good.
along with that, build into yourschedule don't try to do this in
a short trip.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:41):
I know
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:41):
your
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:41):
you're thinking about how do I do this
with littles and I don't havethe answer to that.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:45):
Build into your schedule an extra day
when you
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:49):
Yes.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (26:49):
in the new country and an extra day or
two when you come back home,come home on like a Friday.
So you've got that Saturday andSunday for you to recover, your
kids to recover, before schooland work and all those things
start.
that's a real big help.
you also wanna make sure you'rehydrating on your flight.
Don't have heavy meals, bringlots of snacks
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:13):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:13):
I know it's tempting, but skip the
alcohol.
You're just not gonna feel greaton the first couple days if you
don't do those things,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:19):
on the flight, the times I have been
able to sleep, I haven't eatenthat evening meal
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:24):
Mm-hmm.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:24):
not gonna serve it till like 10
o'clock.
your clock is completely off and
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:28):
Yeah.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:29):
feed you a meal And then they turn
the lights out and like threehours later they're like, it's
morning time and the lights comeon and it's breakfast time.
I know you're ready to startyour vacation, but just think
about what's the best way to,uh.
Kind of regulate your eating anddrinking before you get there.
Alright, Julie, I talked aboutmy top six tips here.
What other questions do you havewhen you're thinking about
(27:51):
either your family or folksheading to Europe for the first
time?
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (27:55):
Something I hear all the time is, should I
get one of those under theclothes belt bags?
What is your thought on that?
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:03):
When I first traveled to Europe, I
always had one.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:05):
Mm-hmm.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:06):
Now I just keep things hidden.
so like if I'm wearing, I don'ttend to go in the summertime, so
I always have a coat on.
I'll have my, wallet and stuffin an inside pocket, and I've
never had any trouble with that.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:21):
is someone's first time and they
are going in the summer, do yousuggest those belt bags.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:26):
I prefer to have the ones that
hang over the neck.
They're just more comfortablethan the belt bags, but
something that can conceal whereyour money is because
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:33):
Got
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:33):
you know,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:34):
You know?
ryan_1_07-01-2025_1 (28:34):
pickpockets are real.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:36):
Yeah.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:36):
But what I would say too with that
is I might keep some cash andmaybe even one of my cards.
In a zipped pocket because Idon't wanna always be reaching
into that concealed bag.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:52):
Got it.
That makes sense.
the other thing I wanna mentionis the ETA applications.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:58):
Yep.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (28:59):
just putting together a client
packet.
so there's a couple differenttypes of, applications that are
starting to pop up.
This is not something outta theordinary just for our guests to
know.
It's not outta the ordinary.
A lot of countries do this.
it is just like filling out acustoms form.
Basically, when you go to a newcountry, it's that they want you
to do it online before you go.
(29:20):
So there's a UK ETA.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:23):
as of right now, there's uk but
there's not eu.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:27):
But what's odd, Ryan is the client
packet I was just working on wasfor Italy it came directly from
the supplier and had all thatinformation on it.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:37):
Okay.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:37):
Okay.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:38):
Well, and that's one of those things
where, you know, they say it'scoming, they say it's coming,
they say it's coming.
So as a traveler, you need to beon top of that or work with, an
advisor who's on top of that.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:49):
Yeah.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:49):
I know all of my folks who have gone to
the UK said that applicationprocess was simple.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (29:55):
Yes.
Very simple.
Just make sure you're going tothe correct websites.
and that goes for country you'regoing to,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:02):
Yeah.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:02):
just Europe, because there are a lot
of different options that aregoing to potentially charge you
different than what is actuallyrequired.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:09):
And ignorance is not, an exception.
They don't care if you say youdon't know.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:15):
Yes.
This whole episode makes me sayyou cannot understand the
benefits of working with atravel advisor.
Like we cannot say them enough.
Right?
I'm not just saying that becausewe are travel advisors.
If I was not a travel advisor, Iwould be terrified to go to
Europe for the first
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:33):
or you would be reading, 10,000
Facebook groups and blogs andmaybe you're not getting the
right information.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (30:40):
yes.
Because like I said, even thoughI have not been for my clients,
I'm doing all sorts of research.
I'm making documents for them toknow before you go.
not only are we there for you asa resource, but if you're on a
tour or working with a specifictour company and you have a
guide with you, that's someoneto literally help you step of
the way while you were there.
(31:01):
And it just like, you cannotdiscount the help that that can
be working with a company.
I'm thinking of Kensington, I'mthinking of CIE tours.
adventures by Disney.
Somebody who has a guide withyou as you go to, to assist you
and.
Give you money for the publicrestroom or tell you
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (31:17):
A,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (31:18):
for dinner,
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (31:19):
and they do, you know,
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (31:21):
know?
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151 (31:21):
Traveling with my family with Adventures
by Disney.
they've got the Euros for thebathroom, they've got the shawls
for the Vatican, if you forgotthem.
I mean, they know that stuff.
And they specifically work withmostly North American guests.
so they kind of know what someof these stumbling blocks could
be.
j_1_07-01-2025_1510 (31:41):
Absolutely.
if you are any sort of nervoustraveler, reach out to us and we
will provide you with all thisinformation.
I have a lot of clientstraveling to Europe this summer
specifically, it's been a verypopular destination and with all
of them, we've had a lot ofphone calls, a lot of emails,
text messages exchanged aboutvarious questions that they have
(32:02):
as we get closer and.
happy to be able to ease theirnerves when that happens.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:09):
So Julie, you talked about your
next, plans for Europe travel,or your first plans rather.
What are they?
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:18):
Currently we have booked to go on the
Disney Dream on a Mediterraneancruise for next summer.
I hope it happens.
we'll see.
it's a long way off still.
but.
is probably the number one placethat I want to go.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:36):
Sure.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:36):
has a lot of heritage there and I mean, it
just looks beautiful.
It's so historic.
it's just number one on mydestination list I
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:44):
right.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (32:44):
to.
Uh, as a family with young kids,a cruise seemed like the easiest
right now.
We don't have to pack up, goanywhere.
The kids have familiar food oncethey get back on the ship.
we've been on a Disney cruise,so it takes out that guessing
factor of what are ouraccommodations gonna be like.
It just eases a lot of things, Ithink, to do that.
(33:05):
and of course Disney because.
The kids will be comfortablethere.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (33:09):
I totally agree.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (33:10):
But I know I'm going to be leaning on
Ryan as we get closer asking allsorts of random
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (33:15):
Y you know, for a very modest fee.
I'm happy to, um, to travelalong.
And by modest I mean allexpenses paid.
j_1_07-01-2025_151013 (33:26):
You're too much.
ryan_1_07-01-2025_151013 (33:27):
The world is full of wonder and your
next great adventure is waitingat Wonder and Beyond Travel.
We work with you to create a oneof a kind journey, taking the
stress off your plate so you canfocus on the joy of exploring
and the memories that will lastyou forever.
If you're ready to startplanning or you just wanna dream
a little bigger, head over toWonder and beyond Travel, we
(33:50):
would love to help you getstarted.
You can reach us at Wonder andbeyond travel.com.
We look forward to talking toyou next week on All Things
Travel.
When we discuss nostalgic WaltDisney World,
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