Most people that read my newsletters have done pretty significant travelling including Europe but there are some that haven't and tend to wonder whether the French really hate North Americans, or state that they might be interested in seeing Europe, but they are afraid they won’t be able to get around since they only speak English, or are afraid of the Euro, or think too many people smoke, or worry that they won’t be able to find any food that they like, or who knows whatever else...
The reality is that they may find that they really enjoy lingering for hours over dinner with wine and friends and not scarfing down a burger and rushing off to the movies. Or become very impressed by the intricate and on-time subway and train infrastructure in most large European cities. Or find themselves joining in the evening “passeggiata” or stroll through the streets of an Italian village before bedtime to visit with their neighbors, catch up on the gossip and maybe share a gelato. There is so much to love about the way Europeans do things.
Here are some of the most common fears about travel to Europe:
1. I’m afraid I won’t be able to communicate with anyone because I only speak English. In all except for the most remote villages in Europe, most everyone speaks at least enough English to be able to communicate with you, maybe with a few charade gestures thrown in for good measure. Most European citizens speak at least 3 or 4 languages very fluently, including English. Most restaurants have menus with English translations and the transportation maps and signs are usually printed in both the local language and in English. This, however, should NOT stop you from learning at least a few words of the local language to make an effort to fit in. “Please”, “Thank You”, “Hello”, “Good Bye”, “how much does
it cost?” and “where is the bathroom?" are always helpful. And remember…you are in their country. Walking into a shop and yelling “DO YOU SPEAK ENGLISH?” at the store owner will not get you great service…right? Can you imagine? The preferred option would be: “I’m sorry, but my French (or Spanish or Italian) is poor. Do you speak English?” delivered with an apologetic smile.
2. I’m worried I won’t be able to find anything to eat that I like. This is, by far, the worst possible excuse for staying home. Even the pickiest eaters can find plenty to fill them up in Europe…and I bet it will have fewer preservatives, more flavor and be prepared by someone who actually cares about the food. Picnic'ing is great fun in Europe…picking up sandwiches or cheese, fruit, bread and wine and sitting outside near some amazing view to enjoy a meal. There are fresh fruit & vegetable stands on every corner and even the local food trucks usually offer some incredible bites.
3. I’ve heard that service in Europe is slow and rude. In Europe, a meal is a time for enjoying great food and wine and each other’s company. Dinner is the entertainment for the evening. You won’t see many Parisians eating quickly so they can run and make their movie on time. They settle in for the night. European waiters are paid well and not anxious to “turn” their tables like here in North America. When you sit at a table in a café or restaurant, it is yours for the night. There is no hurry. If water and bread do not appear on your table within 30 seconds of sitting down...they will come. In Europe, slow service is GOOD service and the servers will not rush you. When you are ready to leave, you must politely ask for the check. It is considered very rude for a waiter to present you with your check before you ask for it…because they don’t want to look like they are rushing you.
4. I’ve heard that things are super expensive over there…. Some hotels, restaurants and tourist- trap souvenir stores can certainly seem overpriced. Stay away from obvious tourist traps…Connect with the local people and you will have tons more fun. Picnic or eat where the locals are lined up….not in a restaurant that has a neon sign flashing “WE SPEAK ENGLISH” outside.
Thoughtful travel engages us with the world. In these tough political and economic times, it can actually remind us what is truly important. By broadening perspectives, travel can teach us new ways to measure the quality of our life. Among your most prized souvenirs from your trip will be the memories of that amazing chocolate croissant, or the old gentleman who challenged you to a game of bocci in the town square, that incredible wine bar that you stumbled upon, or watching the local children play happily in the piazza while their parents enjoy dinner with wine and great adult conversation in the outdoor café. Enjoy!