Traveling's 101/ Things I never want to forget
Tips for Anywhere
- Have an extra set of batteries for your camera. One set just isn't gonna cut it.
- Have a general idea for what you want to do each day. If your plan deviates, just go with it.
- Bring headphones. They double for earplugs if you are desperate!
- Have a budget.
- Bring a sleeping sheet and microfiber towel. They are lightweight and scrunch up tight but they sure are nice for when a hostel is trying to charge you an extra 15 Euros.
- Shop at the grocery store. It is so much cheaper.
- Get a map. Make the map your best friend.
- Bring a water bottle while traveling Europe. Water is like buying gold.
- If you buy a water in a restaurant, make sure it isn't carbonated water. Yuck.
Tips per country
Oslo, Norway
- Go to Vigeland Park. It is beautiful. I wish I spent more time there
- Do NOT buy an Oslo pass. If you want to go to museums, pick which ones you want and pay for them. You can sneak on all of the public transportation if your conscious will allow you.
- Do not eat at McDonalds. It isn't cheap like it is in America. It is a fancy pants expensive restaurant.
- See the viking ships. They are cool.
- Don't spend all your time in Oslo. If you can get up to Bergen or see the fjords somewhere else. Oslo is great, but it is expensive for what you get out of it.
- There are the nicest people ever in Oslo. If you need anything, don't be afraid to ask. Almost everyone speaks wonderful English, and they will go out of their way to help you. Norwegians ROCK.
Stockholm, Sweden
- All subways and trams will require a ticket unless you distract the guard.
- The Skansen open air museum is AWESOME. Spend a lot of time there.
- The Vasa is AWESOME. Get a tour guide and watch the film. It makes it even better.
- There are postcards for 1 SEK if you look hard enough.
- Bring an umbrella if you are there during fall/winter. When it rains, it pours.
- Buy a round-trip ticket back to the airport. It is cheaper.
Vilnius, Lithuania
- If you are going to hike the hill of three crosses, there is an easy way, and a hard way. One side has a paved trail, whereas the other has steep stairs of death. You choose.
- The museum under Gedimina's tower is a must see. The entrance is on the side of the Cathedral.
- Eat the gelato. It is really good.
- Visit the KGB Museum. It will give you a whole new respect and insight on Lithuanian people and their culture.
- St. Annes Church is the cutest one.
- Pay the 7 litas to visit the top of Gediminas tower. With that beautiful view of Vilnius, you won't regret it.
Riga, Latvia
- Get a map of Riga and check destinations off as you go. You should be able to see just about all of it in 2 days.
- Do as the locals do. Something fun was always going on if you just follow the crowds.
- The Medieval Restaurant is well priced, a fun atmosphere and a fair price. I recommend it.
- People in costumes are going to ask for money if you want a picture. It is like Vegas all over again.
- Visit the market. There is something for everyone there.
- Go out at night. I have never seen so many fun local performers.
Copenhagen, Denmark
- Take a boat tour. They are amazing.
- Walk around and see the street art.
- If you have a layover, there are lockers for your bags. They are cheap too.
- The airport has a subway right to the city.
China
- Arrive to the Great Wall plenty early. Take the toboggan down. It is so fun.
- Go to Yangshuo. It is the best place ever.
- When in Yangshuo, the "American" food does not taste like it does in America.
- Do not see the bird show down the Yangshou river. It is NOT worth it.
- Always have extra food in your backpack on trains. You never know when you will be getting off.
- Toilet paper and hand sanitizer is a must.
- If you cannot use a squatter, normally there will be a handicap toilet that is western.
- Take pictures with the Chinese. It makes their whole day.