So my mother is just the sweetest lady in the whole world. I already knew this but it's always nice to be reminded when she does little things like this. I have traveled quite a bit but it's been awhile and my parents travel all the time. Like All. The. Time. So she was very kind and thoughtful to put together a little bag for us of things that we would need for our trip.
I've also been trying to collect tips from people who have been to Paris or Amsterdam before. You know, favorite spots to eat, dos and don'ts of Parisian society, and those touristy traps to avoid. I have one Instagram friend who sent me a myriad of wisdom about Paris and her numerous trips there. It is going to be super helpful to us.
Along with planning for our trip, I also try to stay inspired by reading, watching films, and listening to music....all French or Dutch inspired. The book below has been a fun little read but all the while I've just reminded myself it is a secular read so there are parts that are not the greatest morally. Take the fun, helpful tips and throw out the rest.
Here are some of the things my mom collected in a little gift bag for us that would be great to remember if you are planning a trip overseas or even a mini road trip:
-crackers (or granola bars)
-favorite candy
-tissues
-clorox wipes
-lysol spray
-gum
-mini toothpaste
-toothbrush holder
-mini shampoos/lotions/body wash
-mini soaps
-hand sanitizer
-lint brush roller
-tide to go pen
-tide detergent packets
Also, some things I have added to our list to pick up...
-power converter/adapter
-mini pillows & pillowcases (to sleep on the plane and in Airbnbs...I'm weird and like my own pillow)
-bottled water
-snacks to eat in-between meals to save money
-bandages for feet (for all the walking you do in Europe)
I snagged the sweetest book from Anthropologie the other day. I plan on carrying it around with me in my purse for quick referencing. So adorable and helpful. I've already learned the word for iced coffee.
Priorities.
Here are some other things my mother told me when traveling abroad...
-get crisp, brand new bills (some places are picky about cash)
-make two copies of your passport and leave one at home (with easy access to family) and pack one in your suitcase (even better store in the cloud) in case yours gets lost.
-make copies of all tickets, itineraries, etc. and don't just keep them on your phone
-make sure anything liquid in your carry-on is 3 oz. or lower and store in a quart size ziploc bag.
-arrive at airport in plenty of time (at least 2-2 1/2 hours before take-off).
-always, ALWAYS double check your gate (gates have switched on me several times right before a flight).
-bring an extra pair of socks for the plane (as the air circulates from the floor of the plane and your feet will freeze if you don't).
-pack an umbrella (no matter what Sabrina Fairchild says)
-pack bath cloths (most Europeans don't use them)
-don't over pack. (I need to read that about 20 times to myself).
One thing I decided to do early on was make a list in my trip planning journal of restaurants people recommended to me or I saw others rave about online. I researched them on Trip Advisor and added them to my list. Beside the name of the restaurant, I listed the address, their hours, and price range. Hopefully that will save us some time when deciding where and when to eat.
Anyways, I left some tips for you here passed on to me by some travel experts. Perhaps it will help you in your future trips. I know it is going to help me out tremendously when packing and planning.
Have a lovely weekend, friends!
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