[mnemonicj]

Ok, the R34 is something else...

The R34 is the latest version of the Skyline since the late 90's. The R33 and the R32 preceeded it.

[Stryker762]

Make sure to pack some necessities in your carry-on bag, because you never know. I have had my bags lost before, and I was stuck with the cloths on my back for two days. Have copies of all your paperwork (especially traveling overseas) and learn some local activities before you go (customs, etc.) It will make the trip abroad much more enjoyable!!

[mnemonicj]

Make sure to pack some necessities in your carry-on bag, because you never know. I have had my bags lost before, and I was stuck with the cloths on my back for two days. Have copies of all your paperwork (especially traveling overseas) and learn some local activities before you go (customs, etc.) It will make the trip abroad much more enjoyable!!

Yeah, very good idea. I had a friend that had his luggage misplaced for 3 days while we were in Brazil. He had to buy clothes there otherwise he would have to wear the same underwear for those three days.

Also make sure you don't pack anything with a sharp edge in your carry on. No knives, scissors, pocket knives, or even nail clippers. Also, there are new laws forbidding lighters on the plane at all so make sure you aren't packing any.

Be prepared to empty your pockets several times during your trip and it may come to removing your shoes. I made the mistake once of wearing shoes with metal clasps so I had to remove them everytime I went through a metal detector. If you wear a belt with a metal clasp they may ask you to open your belt so they can pass the wand over your waist.

[ginogsm]

France might not be so bad as long as you don't act like their idea of a typical arrogant American. Just be nice and be polite and you should get by just fine.

I agree... though depending on your French, this might be harder than you think. I've found in my own travels (which have not been to Europe) that the more non-touristy you act, the better. It was very clear to me in both Hawaii and Alaska (around natives of each area respectively) that they did NOT like touristy acting people.

I think you'd enjoy Germany's mountains better. I've seen photos and they just blew me away. And my GF loves Russia... so I'd consider it too, though I have no personal experience on that.

I totally agree. I live in country that a respectable percentage of its income comes from tourist activity ( unfortunately ) and I can tell you that if you don't act like a tourist the better the food you'll get , the better the prices you'll pay and the better the info you will receive. Also make sure you point to them that you are coming from Europe and also make sure you have learnt some basic French. It is not likely that you'll find someone in France that will speak to you in English , no matter if he speaks or not ( the same applies for Spain and Italy too at least and it has started over here too ). Finally get some really good info about which areas/restaurants etc to avoid.

[Stryker762]

my parents are going to Italy in two weeks, and they have spent the past few, reading all that they can, and talking to others who have been before to get a good idea of good shops, eats, places, and how to treat the locals. If you seem educated enough, most of the time locals will treat you with respect, because you have taken the time to learn about their home.

[Odais]

lol good luck with it and providing a decent depositum for insurance.

Hmm...

Me: Hello. I'd like to rent this Porshe here.
Man: Okay, just let me have your driver's license and the insurance deposit and it's all yours.
Me: No problem! I just left my wallet inside the Porshe's glove compartment. Can I borrow the keys just to open it?
Man: Sure!


Back to the topic. Educating myself about the locals and their customs seems to be a great idea. I've got a little bit of French myself so that shouldn't be too bad.

I never thought about taking some stuff in my carry-bag, so that's a very good idea. Thanks for that!

[peu obscurit]

Also heading to France this summer. Don't be put off by the 'French are rude' idea. Why belive someone who judges a whole nation on a few experiences...

Anyway copying the passport is a great idea. If you've taken that kind of precaution you're more likely to be taken seriously if you need the help.

In France last year n it was great. They're proud of their culture and there is always loads going on. Its appreciated if you make an effort with the French speaking which is half the fun!!

[Infinityeye]

France might not be so bad as long as you don't act like their idea of a typical arrogant American. Just be nice and be polite and you should get by just fine.

I agree... though depending on your French, this might be harder than you think. I've found in my own travels (which have not been to Europe) that the more non-touristy you act, the better. It was very clear to me in both Hawaii and Alaska (around natives of each area respectively) that they did NOT like touristy acting people.

I think you'd enjoy Germany's mountains better. I've seen photos and they just blew me away. And my GF loves Russia... so I'd consider it too, though I have no personal experience on that.

I totally agree. I live in country that a respectable percentage of its income comes from tourist activity ( unfortunately ) and I can tell you that if you don't act like a tourist the better the food you'll get , the better the prices you'll pay and the better the info you will receive. Also make sure you point to them that you are coming from Europe and also make sure you have learnt some basic French. It is not likely that you'll find someone in France that will speak to you in English , no matter if he speaks or not ( the same applies for Spain and Italy too at least and it has started over here too ). Finally get some really good info about which areas/restaurants etc to avoid.

@ the restaurants,

Look in the toilets first, if they are dirty, the kitchen won't be better

And very important, learn French if you don't already know it. Much of the sings are in French. Also try to think in French, this will help improve your french.

If you go to Paris, buy a drink at the Bar, and don't install yourself on the terras/at the street. There the drinks can be 2 Euro's expensiver.

[Odais]

Dia duit / Bonjour Peu Obscurit