Chip Cards in Europe

“Smart cards,” also known as “chip and PIN cards,” are increasingly commonplace in Europe. Such cards incorporate microchips that are programmed with user information and security data. Normally, you’ll need to enter a four-digit Personal Identification Number, or PIN, when you make a purchase. This makes it tougher for thieves to use stolen cards or card numbers.
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Don’t assume you need a rail pass…

The days of the cheap unlimited Eurail pass are long gone.   What was once true in the 70s, 80s and 90s is no longer.  Generally, point to point tickets will be a better buy.

The first 3 months of our trip takes us from Portugal, Spain, France, Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, Brussels and the Netherlands.

Our first thought like most people was to just buy a Eurail Global pass…

$0.00 airfare

Sometimes you have to wonder how Air Canada can charge so much and still be losing money while Ryanair is practically giving away airfare and is still profitable?

Take for example our flight from Porto to Madrid.

From Porto (OPO) to Madrid (MAD)
PASSENGERS

1. MR MONKEY 2. MRS ROOSTER
PAYMENT DETAILS
*********0.00 EUR Total Fare
********20.00 EUR Taxes, Fees & Charges
********10.00 EUR Passenger Fee: CC
********30.00 EUR Total Paid

French, Italian, German, and Spanish Phrases

A traveler’s cheat sheet on how to say the basics and ask important questions in  French, Italian, German, and Spanish

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