European Roadtrip

Expats living in Britain–or anywhere else in Europe, who want to go on holiday this summer should consider a European driving holiday. Here’s some of the best reasons why:

1. Ferries or Eurostar are easy to book and often good deals can be found if you’re happy to travel at odd times.
2. Many lovely destinations are within an easy day drive from Britain.
3. Alternatively, road trip across Europe!
4. Or plan on a bit of both, spend several days on the road, then stay for a week somewhere before doing the same journey back—or a new journey back, completing a circle and seeing many places in Europe along the way.
5. Most hotels or B&Bs can be booked in advance (and where possible, try to do so), but sometimes if you arrive early enough and are willing to search you can keep your plans more flexible and find a place as you go. The local Tourist Information will often have lists of places to stay. If you find yourself in a location too small for a Tourist Information, then look for signs for B&Bs and knock—if they’re full they may recommend other places. You can also ask at post offices, grocery stores or markets. Someone usually knows someone who can help you.
6. If you are driving a British car onto the continent you’ll possibly need to put decals on the headlights to protect the eyes of the drivers in the oncoming traffic.
7. You will also want to get European breakdown cover to cover the rare emergencies.
8. If you are taking a train to the continent and renting a European car breakdown cover should be included in the rental price, but double check.
9. Don’t forget travel insurance.
10. Googling locations you want to visit is good, but be sure to remember to print off the information or buy a travel guide. Some people prefer to print off only the relevant information, as it is easier than a heavy guidebook to bring with them on day outings.
11. Travelling across borders has been made much easier with the introduction of the Euro so all you need to worry about is changing pounds to Euros. The best deals are probably done at your bank or the post office but it is always best to double check when you come to change money.
12. Ensure that you have a secure place to keep all your financial valuables, such as a pocket worn under clothes. You may question this because as an expat you feel you are already in the traveller mode, but when in a location you aren’t used to you will be distracted by new surroundings.
13. Don’t forget the camera! Documenting your adventures while living overseas will be a great record for you to look back on one day.