You’ve decided to travel to Europe and ride the rails across the continent. Train travel can be a richly rewarding experience – unparalleled scenery, contact with local cultures, departure and arrival at quaint villages and towns. A few tips about traveling to a new place will help you enjoy your Europe trip better.

Before you leave for Europe:

• Try and find personal contacts in the places you are going. Your friends or family might know people in Europe and may be willing to share their phone number with you. It’s good to know some people in a new place.
• Take some time out to learn the basics of the languages spoken where you will be going. Learn phrases like “Hello”, “How are you?”, “Thank you”, “Good bye” and “How much is that?”.  A few basic sentences will help you get around a new place.
• Read about the unique qualities of the cultures you will be visiting. Salutations, eating habits, and basic etiquette can vary from one country to the next. Some places are more religiously or socially conservative or expect more restrained behavior.
• Learn some of the fundamentals about international travel. Know about train travel (ticket purchasing), have the right travel documents (passport, visas, etc.), know what to do in an emergency (are you covered?) and how to call home.

During your Trip:

• Use the personal contacts you were given, as well as any you make while on the road. A phone call never hurts anyone and could result in a terrific adventure.
• Don’t be shy and don’t be harsh. It’s a good idea to behave with poise and a sense of purpose. Be open to new people and cultures, but at the same time trust your instinct.
• Use the basic phrases that you’ve learnt. You will probably end up speaking English anyway, or playing charades, but your first effort at meeting local people more than halfway will always be rewarded.
• Know the local laws and rules, and respect them.