Travel Tips
01 Pack Light
Pack light wherever possible. Once you have all your essentials compiled, I would recommend doing a practice pack before you head off for your adventure. If you don't think you'll use an item, you probably won't, so don't be afraid to leave it at home. Every trip and scenario is different of course, but in the case of this trip, I took a swimsuit but didn't end up using it. See if you can fit most items in a carry-on sized piece of luggage. This will save you on those pesky airline luggage fees!
Please Note: I did come with a carry-on...
02 Shoes!
Find one, preferably two good pairs of solid shoes and break them in a bit before you go. You'll be glad you did.
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03 Something new, peut-etre?
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If you're visiting a country or region that is new to you (St. Jean de Luz pictured here), and you aren't familiar with the language, find a phrase book that might be helpful to aid in learning some basic phrases. The Basque region is so unique in this regard, there is no other modern equivalent to it -- lord knows I like a challenge! A few months before I went, I found a nice lesson book that helped me learn some basics. I also had my trusty Rick Steves French phrase book with me, just in case. Most everyone native to the area, that me and the rest of the group encountered was very kind and patient with us. I knew just enough to get around, or get into 'trouble'!
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04 The unexpected could possibly, but hopefully not happen
It's hard to plan for a thousand scenarios that may or may not happen, but life is indeed like a box of chocolates. You never know what could happen - something could go wonky, but it hopefully won't. I did have a hiccup during my trip, and nearly missed my flight home due to a throng of people at the Frankfurt passport control checkpoint. I didn't miss the flight thanks to the willingness of Lufthansa to wait forty minutes for 80 passengers (so I heard) to board, including myself. Remember to get travel insurance!
05 Have fun!!
I am in fact having fun in this picture... how could I not, I'm literally standing by the ocean. It's my relaxed face, honest! I hope tip number four hasn't deterred you from having a blast on your Rick Steves tour! Go, have fun and take lots of pictures!