Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/125295
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Europe may appear overwhelming for a first-time visitor, or even a seasoned traveler. The following information will help prepare you for your vacation: PASSPORT/DOCUMENTS Your passport must be current and valid for at least six months past your return date. Passports are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Europe for stays of less than 90 days. CURRENCY The Euro is the currency for most European nations (major exceptions are the U.K., Switzerland and Scandinavia). ATM's are prevalent, and are usually your best source for cash at the most current exchange rate. ADAPTERS AND CONVERTERS European voltage is higher than that in the United States (220 volts vs. 110 volts). A continental plug adapter and voltage converter are necessary. PHONES AND CALLING CARDS Every country has a unique country code following a plus sign (i.e. +39 for Italy). Instead of area codes, all countries use city codes that begin with zero. Some U.S. phone cards offer international service in Europe. Some U.S. cell phone service providers offer overseas service for higher rates, and American Express Vacations has a partner that provides free international cell phone rentals. TEMPERATURE Europe records its temperatures in Celsius. To convert to an approximate Fahrenheit temperature, double the Celsius temperature and add 30. TIME AND DATE • The 24-hour clock is used to denote timetables. To convert to U.S. time for 13:00 and over, subtract 12 and add "pm." For example, 18:00 is 6:00 pm. • Dates are written with the day coming before the month. For example, Christmas is 25-12-12. • Greenwich Mean Time (U.K.) is 5 hours, and Continental Europe is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. TIPPING A customary European tip is 10-15%. However, many places include service charges in the bill, in which case no additional tip is expected. PACKING FOR YOUR TRIP Check with your airline for luggage weight restrictions, as many local European carriers have their own rules. Your primary bag should be relatively light and not exceed 25 inches. CLOTHING Temperatures can fluctuate, so be prepared to dress in layers. Be aware that some popular attractions, such as the Vatican and other churches, enforce strict dress codes, and do not allow tank tops or shorts. 8 Know Before You Go TRAVEL HINTS: Customer Care Our dedicated customer care specialists are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week…from the time you leave for vacation until you return home. They will answer all of your travel-related issues and concerns and can help arrange alternate travel arrangements due to weather-related circumstances or other instances. Telephone Numbers The phone numbers on your vouchers include a country code and the local number. You do not need to dial the country code while you are in that particular country. Transfers If your arrival is delayed or changed at the last minute, please call the local transfer company listed on your vouchers. Departure transfers should be confirmed 48 hours before traveling. Please note that in some cities, transfer companies are not available by telephone over the weekend. Vouchers and Sightseeing Dates on your vouchers are the start dates from which tours are valid. If you wish to take a tour on a Monday, please contact the local sightseeing company earlier, as they are often closed on weekends. If you are traveling over a weekend, contact them from the U.S. before your departure. All necessary phone numbers are printed on your vouchers. Rail Tickets If you booked a rail ticket or pass with your package, make sure you have a separate ticket in your documents package. Vouchers alone are not valid for rail travel. To-Do List: • Travel with credit cards and an ATM card. • Keep a record of important numbers for credit cards, ATM cards and travelers checks in a separate location. • Make two copies of your bank cards, credit cards, driver's license, passport and return airline ticket. Keep one at home and bring one with you. • Leave an itinerary with a close family member or friend. • If you are going to a warm destination, bring strong sunscreen and a hat. Excessive sun exposure has ruined many vacations. • If traveling with young children, take along play activities for the airport and plane ride. • Medications, jewelry and other valuables should be hand-carried, not placed in checked luggage. • Place your airline tickets and other valuables in your in-room safe or hotel's safe deposit box. • Make sure your luggage has identification both inside and out. • Pack the following items: voltage converter and adapter plugs; calculator (for converting currency); camera with extra battery, memory cards and charger; pocket translation guide; comfortable walking shoes and rain gear. • Check with your airline several days before your departure date to reconfirm your flight. Do the same before your return. • Call your airline before leaving for the airport to check on any last minute delays. • Due to increased security, arrive at the airport early.