Quote:
Originally posted by Pandora
I would sincerely appreciate any travel tips for Europe, especially for the Netherlands. First time abroad ever and I am eager, but oddly nervous.
If anyone is willing to share travel tips for lone females or just in general, I would be very grateful. PM's welcome.
1. exchange my currency here or over there?
2. like the first-aid FAQ, is it wise to bring over-the-counter meds along? (Advil, gravol, immodium)
3. websites say drinking tap water in Holland is okay - opinions on this?
4. I will have to navigate to the train system after landing in Amsterdam - any pointers?
5. Is it acceptable or inadvisable to wear flags in this area or not?
I am admittedly shamed in asking such naive questions. I truly would appreciate any input you have time to offer. My
co-workers who have been are long on "sites to see in between work" and short on practical advice.
Respectfully submitted,
Pandora
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1. Use a credit card, the exchange rates are among the best. Take only "walking around money", and keep it divvied up among several pockets. Avoid wearing flashy or expensive jewelry.
2. Bring OTC and prescription meds in the original packaging. I would say that the Dutch are not too concerned about drugs of any kind, based on my observation (more later on this).
3. I suspect that the water is fine. If worried, drink/brush with bottled water. Do not use ice!
4. Euro transport is usually pretty much self-explanatory and user friendly. Having said that, if you see a group of Moluccans get on board, or see a train headed to De Punt, take another train. Do not loiter in unsecure public transport areas. Arrive in time to get oriented, buy your tickets, and board shortly before departure. Leave quickly after arrival at your destination. Try to travel with at least one friend.
5. Given the political atmosphere, the presence of large numbers of Muslims, recent terrorist attacks on mass transit in Europe, I would avoid wearing flags or any U.S. identifiable clothing items there. Dress like the locals, try to look unimportant, and dress like everyone else as much as possible.
Unsolicited advice: Robbery and pickpocketing are much more of a problem than you would think. Be careful of where and when you go out. Keep your head up and moving, aware of your surroundings at all times. Maintain Condition Orange, minimum at all times there. Prostitution and drugs are legal in the Netherlands. Be careful. Retain your awareness of your level of intoxication and do not accept drinks from anyone you do not know, or return to drinks left unsecured, when you return from the Ladies' Room, for example. Be cognizant that you may be searched upon your return to the U.S., and possession of items legally purchased there may be illegal here. There is also a rash of hotel robberies, including armed room intrusions. Be careful. Nuff said.
Good luck, and have a nice trip.
TR