Travel Europe Like A Local
Written by Susan Eliuk for Total Advantage Travel
I have always wanted to do more exploring in Europe. Most people think they cannot afford to travel to Europe and enjoy it. Perhaps I was one of those individuals as well. An opportunity arose, and I seized it with great anticipation of where my European adventure could begin, to explore and immerse myself in the two weeks I had available.
I decided to choose countries that I wanted to see. Everyone wants to visit Italy, then Croatia, the Montenegro UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the hopping city of Amsterdam. I encountered no disappointments at any of the places I toured. How was I going to get the most out of all these countries? It was to immerse myself as if I were a local.
Venice, Italy, and Amsterdam
I rode the bus system, the metro, the train, and the fast train, and took the water taxis in Venice and the water boats in Amsterdam. It wasn’t just about using the transportation means, but also about talking to the people, asking them where they like to eat, and how they get from one point to another. By just being friendly, you can fit in like the locals, going to their favourite restaurants. Asking the right questions can help reduce expenses. In Europe, especially in Italy, the cost of dining at restaurants frequented by tourists is significantly higher. Learn to stand up and have your cappuccino; you’ll pay a lot less. Go off to the side streets for great restaurants with reasonable prices, and talk with the locals to learn more about the history, hidden treasures, and sights that you would miss otherwise.
Visit downtown tourist attractions, where you can book a guided walking tour online and pay a fee to meet a local guide. This tour will provide an in-depth look at the city’s history and highlights. Walk on streets you wouldn’t otherwise see, and learn where to eat. The local guides get paid by your generous donation, so they are going to give you a tour that you will enjoy, for sure. You won’t be disappointed with the tour because of their passion for their country and the place they call home.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
I highly recommend that when you are in Italy, don’t miss the Amalfi coast; the views are spectacular. The lemon groves, you have never eaten lemons like an apple until you go there and see the 400-year-old lemon groves. Take the boat off the coast to see the cliffs, with buildings staggered on top of the rocks, displaying a vibrant array of colours. Eating their fresh seafood is fantastic. I would go back in a heartbeat.
Croatia
Croatia boasts its unique beauty. Hiking up Mount Srd, which stands over 450 meters high, is breathtaking, offering a view of over 60 km of the Adriatic Sea coastline, Old Dubrovnik below, and the Mediterranean Sea glistening in the sun. For those people who count daily steps, you will be well over your average, but you won’t regret it. That hike was special because we were able to meet an older lady out on her balcony after our long hike, and she shared with us stories about the area, the war she had survived, and why she loved it there. That’s what makes these kinds of adventures so special: the people you meet and hear the local stories, and what and how their lives have changed with the things they endured.
Montenegro
Montenegro, the adventure was on a coach with lots of space, but to travel the winding roads along the shoreline, seeing the glass fjords, I highly recommend it. Visiting Kotor is a must, especially for hikers, to climb to the top of the walled city, winding your way up the mountain. Cobblestone streets, shops of wares you wouldn’t see anywhere else. There is a reason why it is called a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam, another city like Venice, travels on its canals, which are over 1700 in the surrounding area. It is known for its waffles of many flavours and any topping you can imagine, as well as its museums, Heineken Brewery, the Lookout, and bikes – they have more bikes than people. The bikes have the right of way, so watch out. Yet, every street you go on, you can find that picture-perfect shot.
Travel Europe Like A Local
Don’t be afraid to plan a trip to Europe. Reach out to us, Travel Pros; we are here to help you have an awesome experience and not miss the sites you should see and enjoy! Let us get you started on your adventure! 🟢
Travel Europe Like A Local
Photos courtesy of Susan Eliuk
Read more from our Travel Experience Blog:
Older Adult and Senior Travel in Italy – A Rewarding Experience
Italy Travel – The Ultimate Bucket List Destination – Top Attractions
Getting a Travel Agent to Book Your Next Trip – Why is it Important?
Athens – Exploring the Greek Capital
