What do you wish you'd known?

18 Jul 2007 ashleightara asked

I'm curious to know what ppl wish they'd known before they went on their trips, and only discovered afterwards...

For example,
Did you miss something in a town you wish you'd known about?
Did you pack something, and never used it?
Did you NEED something you didn't pack and had to go in search of it?

In particular, looking for different advice to what is already available on the board...share you experience so others can learn from you 'mistake'.

Thanks

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• Answer this question 753 answers so far

• 30 Sep 2012 Georgie said

  

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  • 0 people like this

• 30 Sep 2012 Jessica said

  

  Hey Georgie,
  I’m not sure whether it is acutally an issue (unless you are smuggling drugs back accross the border), but I wasn’t about to risk anything. I flew out of London the next night and still had the smell of marijuana stuck in my hair (despite washing it several times) and I didn’t smoke or take anything.
  In saying that. I also knew that any drug offence would result in me automatically losing my job and my registration with the health department. I also come from a family of cops who have drilled into me time and time again about drugs and customs and how risky it can be when you’re coming from a place well known for smuggling (amsterdam, bali etc…)

  So this might just be me being unnecessarily cautious, but I prefer to lose some clothes rather than risk my career. Other people might have a different opinion.
  Jess

  Hey Georgie, I'm not sure whether it is acutally an issue (unless you are smuggling drugs back accross the border), but I wasn't about to risk anything. I flew out of London the next night and still had the smell of marijuana stuck in my hair (despite washing it several times) and I didn't smoke or take anything. In saying that. I also knew that any drug offence would result in me automatically losing my job and my registration with the health department. I also come from a family of cops who have drilled into me time and time again about drugs and customs and how risky it can be when you're coming from a place well known for smuggling (amsterdam, bali etc...) So this might just be me being unnecessarily cautious, but I prefer to lose some clothes rather than risk my career. Other people might have a different opinion. Jess or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 30 Sep 2012 emily7 said

  

  Hey everyone
  So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn’t in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour.

  I wish
  I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It’s too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills.
  I wish I’d packed for summer!! I’m an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees!
  I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye!
  I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I’d recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour.
  I got really sick from the ‘contiki cough’ although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone’s sick so everyone shared.
  I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn’t want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days.
  I wish I didn’t do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn’t.

  I’m glad
  I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we’re awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find
  your own way to a restaurant.
  I’m so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups.
  I’m absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn’t have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here!
  I’m glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights

  There’s probably a lot mores could say, but I’ll leave it for now

  I want to do another tour next year, I’ll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night.
  I’d recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well.
  Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around.

  Hey everyone So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn't in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour. I wish I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It's too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills. I wish I'd packed for summer!! I'm an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees! I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye! I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I'd recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour. I got really sick from the 'contiki cough' although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone's sick so everyone shared. I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn't want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days. I wish I didn't do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn't. I'm glad I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we're awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find your own way to a restaurant. I'm so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups. I'm absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn't have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here! I'm glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights There's probably a lot mores could say, but I'll leave it for now I want to do another tour next year, I'll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night. I'd recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well. Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around. or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 30 Sep 2012 emily7 said

  

  Hey everyone
  So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn’t in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour.

  I wish
  I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It’s too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills.
  I wish I’d packed for summer!! I’m an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees!
  I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye!
  I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I’d recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour.
  I got really sick from the ‘contiki cough’ although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone’s sick so everyone shared.
  I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn’t want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days.
  I wish I didn’t do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn’t.

  I’m glad
  I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we’re awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find
  your own way to a restaurant.
  I’m so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups.
  I’m absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn’t have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here!
  I’m glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights

  There’s probably a lot mores could say, but I’ll leave it for now

  I want to do another tour next year, I’ll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night.
  I’d recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well.
  Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around.

  Hey everyone So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn't in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour. I wish I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It's too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills. I wish I'd packed for summer!! I'm an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees! I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye! I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I'd recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour. I got really sick from the 'contiki cough' although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone's sick so everyone shared. I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn't want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days. I wish I didn't do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn't. I'm glad I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we're awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find your own way to a restaurant. I'm so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups. I'm absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn't have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here! I'm glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights There's probably a lot mores could say, but I'll leave it for now I want to do another tour next year, I'll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night. I'd recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well. Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around. or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 30 Sep 2012 emily7 said

  

  Hey everyone
  So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn’t in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour.

  I wish
  I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It’s too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills.
  I wish I’d packed for summer!! I’m an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees!
  I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye!
  I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I’d recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour.
  I got really sick from the ‘contiki cough’ although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone’s sick so everyone shared.
  I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn’t want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days.
  I wish I didn’t do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn’t.

  I’m glad
  I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we’re awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find
  your own way to a restaurant.
  I’m so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups.
  I’m absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn’t have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here!
  I’m glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights

  There’s probably a lot mores could say, but I’ll leave it for now

  I want to do another tour next year, I’ll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night.
  I’d recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well.
  Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around.

  Hey everyone So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn't in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour. I wish I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It's too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills. I wish I'd packed for summer!! I'm an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees! I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye! I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I'd recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour. I got really sick from the 'contiki cough' although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone's sick so everyone shared. I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn't want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days. I wish I didn't do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn't. I'm glad I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we're awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find your own way to a restaurant. I'm so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups. I'm absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn't have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here! I'm glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights There's probably a lot mores could say, but I'll leave it for now I want to do another tour next year, I'll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night. I'd recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well. Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around. or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 30 Sep 2012 emily7 said

  

  Hey everyone
  So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn’t in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour.

  I wish
  I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It’s too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills.
  I wish I’d packed for summer!! I’m an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees!
  I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye!
  I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I’d recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour.
  I got really sick from the ‘contiki cough’ although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone’s sick so everyone shared.
  I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn’t want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days.
  I wish I didn’t do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn’t.

  I’m glad
  I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we’re awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find
  your own way to a restaurant.
  I’m so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups.
  I’m absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn’t have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here!
  I’m glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights

  There’s probably a lot mores could say, but I’ll leave it for now

  I want to do another tour next year, I’ll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night.
  I’d recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well.
  Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around.

  Hey everyone So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn't in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour. I wish I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It's too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills. I wish I'd packed for summer!! I'm an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees! I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye! I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I'd recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour. I got really sick from the 'contiki cough' although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone's sick so everyone shared. I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn't want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days. I wish I didn't do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn't. I'm glad I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we're awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find your own way to a restaurant. I'm so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups. I'm absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn't have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here! I'm glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights There's probably a lot mores could say, but I'll leave it for now I want to do another tour next year, I'll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night. I'd recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well. Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around. or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 30 Sep 2012 emily7 said

  

  Hey everyone
  So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn’t in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour.

  I wish
  I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It’s too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills.
  I wish I’d packed for summer!! I’m an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees!
  I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye!
  I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I’d recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour.
  I got really sick from the ‘contiki cough’ although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone’s sick so everyone shared.
  I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn’t want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days.
  I wish I didn’t do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn’t.

  I’m glad
  I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we’re awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find
  your own way to a restaurant.
  I’m so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups.
  I’m absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn’t have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here!
  I’m glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights

  There’s probably a lot mores could say, but I’ll leave it for now

  I want to do another tour next year, I’ll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night.
  I’d recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well.
  Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around.

  Hey everyone So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn't in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour. I wish I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It's too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills. I wish I'd packed for summer!! I'm an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees! I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye! I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I'd recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour. I got really sick from the 'contiki cough' although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone's sick so everyone shared. I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn't want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days. I wish I didn't do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn't. I'm glad I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we're awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find your own way to a restaurant. I'm so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups. I'm absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn't have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here! I'm glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights There's probably a lot mores could say, but I'll leave it for now I want to do another tour next year, I'll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night. I'd recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well. Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around. or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 30 Sep 2012 emily7 said

  

  Hey everyone
  So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn’t in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour.

  I wish
  I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It’s too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills.
  I wish I’d packed for summer!! I’m an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees!
  I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye!
  I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I’d recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour.
  I got really sick from the ‘contiki cough’ although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone’s sick so everyone shared.
  I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn’t want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days.
  I wish I didn’t do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn’t.

  I’m glad
  I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we’re awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find
  your own way to a restaurant.
  I’m so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups.
  I’m absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn’t have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here!
  I’m glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights

  There’s probably a lot mores could say, but I’ll leave it for now

  I want to do another tour next year, I’ll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night.
  I’d recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well.
  Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around.

  Hey everyone So I did the European horizon tour in may this year. It only goes for 10 days and at the time I thought that was good for me as I wasn't in Europe for long, next time ill do a longer tour. I wish I wish I packed lighter. I brought a lot of pairs of shoes, 2 ballet flats, one walking shoes, 2 heels and boots! No one on my tour wore heels, even on our fancy Parisian dinner. It's too hard walking on the cobblestones and hills. I wish I'd packed for summer!! I'm an Aussie so I have a lot of summer clothes, but I went to England before contiki and it was freezing there and raining all the time. I assumed Europe would be the same. We had days of 25-35 degrees! I wish I moved around more on the bus and had gotten to know people earlier! I made some good friends at the end of the tour and then had to as goodbye! I bought more food for the bus, everything was expensive at the petrol stops, so I'd recommend buying food from supermarkets or before going on tour. I got really sick from the 'contiki cough' although its more like bronchitis!!! Be extra prepared and then prepare some more!! I had basic cough and cold stuff, Panafon etc. that lasted no time at all, especially since everyone's sick so everyone shared. I wish I did the Switzerland mountain trip! It was about 250swiss francs, but everyone who did it loved it. I was really sick at that stage so didn't want to risk getting sicker plus I wanted to feel better for Paris and our last days. I wish I didn't do the Parisian cabaret show, it was boring but I think I was comparing it to a sex show, as we did that first. Only half the tour did this optional and most of my friends didn't. I'm glad I did most of the optionals, the ones I did we're awesome! The water a rafting especially! The optional dinners were okay during some of them I was too sick to eat anyways, but it was easier than having to find your own way to a restaurant. I'm so glad that I climbed the Eiffel tour at night, the view was spectacular and we missed the huge lineups. I'm absolutely ecstatic that we found a back entrance to the louvre and didn't have to line up at all. If you are lucky enough to have a British or euro passport you get in for free here! I'm glad I tried everything in Amsterdam, this was our first tour night and got to know everyone here! Was one of the best nights There's probably a lot mores could say, but I'll leave it for now I want to do another tour next year, I'll do a longer one though, as I hated having to ride on the bus for so long, and being in one place for sometimes barely more than a night. I'd recommend going with friends, but getting to know everyone as well. Also bring a double euro adapter as some Americans found that their straighteners wattage was too high and blew the fuse on theirs! So I lent my straightener and adapter around. or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 15 Oct 2012 Steveybaby said

  

  i wish i got to know my group faster
  i wish i got some more vans shoes
  i wish i took more photos

  i wish i got to know my group faster i wish i got some more vans shoes i wish i took more photos or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 15 Oct 2012 Steveybaby said

  

  i wish i got to know my group better
  I wish i braught some vans shoes
  i wish i took more photos

  i wish i got to know my group better I wish i braught some vans shoes i wish i took more photos or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 15 Oct 2012 JulieK said

  

  My tour: European Escapade May-June 2012, 28 days

  I wish I had known…

  That my straightener would blow. Canadians and Americans, don’t bring your expensive straighteners! If you love straightening
  your hair, just buy a European one. I wish I did, the GHD’s looked amazing so I would have loved to own one anyway. Instead,
  I just borrowed from everyone the whole trip which got frustrating.

  That we would go out almost every night. Whether it was to a random Karaoke bar, a fancy dinner, a sex show in Amsterdam, or
  the Monte Carlo casino… there was always a requirement for a nice outfit. Girls! I’m not saying heels. But skirts, dresses, nice
  flats… I ended up wanting a new outfit every time, so me and the girls would go insane when we saw an H&M or Zara… my
  suitcase doubled in size, all for the sake of looking nice when I went out. I wish I would of known to START with lots of nice
  clothes. The Europeans do dress very nice! But again, personal style & taste.

  That I wouldn’t have time to load my photos, or write blogs, etc.. etc… It was just a go-go-go. Instead I gaurded my memory
  cards like a hawk. I’m still not entirely sure what an alternative to keeping my photos safe would have been. And as for
  keeping up on the internet, a quick message home and a status update on facebook is reasonable based on the amount of
  spare time you have!

  That I WOULD get sick. I’d heard about the Contiki cough, thought it might be a myth. I was smart enough to bring Vitamin C,
  Halls, painkillers and Cold FX – but I wish that I had gone to my doctor and specifically asked for antibiotics. See, for me, when I get
  sick it inflammes my glands causing painful swallowing and pain in my ears. I should have known. But oh well, what can you
  do? Everyone just kept on going – your only in Europe once, swallow the pain and just keep going!

  For me, personally, I wish I had known to go single. Unless your with your partner, or you have a serious partner you trust that
  your leaving behind. I ended up becoming single two weeks in, and it was such a relief to just relax and enjoy these people
  that you might never see again without worries of staying loyal. Yes, Contiki has rumors of being hook-up central. But it was
  a bit more deep than that, you form bonds with everyone and “fall in love” with everyone in a way. In my opinion it’s quite smart
  to go Contiki without any ties unless you have a serious relationship back home.

  Bring ziploc bags for your toiletries, but ALSO bring a proper makeup bag. You will appreciate it once your there. I disliked
  using out of ziploc bags for a month very strongly. OH, and remember a toothbrush holder, or else all your makeup etc. will get soggy!

  Brought more warm clothes. I misunderestimated Europe in May. Another pair of sweats, socks, and a big comfy hoodie would
  of been greatly appreciated. Mitts and scarves as well, and even snowpants and boots if you plan to go up Jungfrau Mountain in Switzerland.

  Stick with the same type of drink all night.

  That a “special brownie” in Amsterdam is not smart if you don’t do marijuana often. It will course through your body much too
  uncontrollably, stick with a joint! Plus mixing it with drinks is a horrible idea. I passed out on the boardwalk, thankfully I had
  50 friends to take care of me.

  I’m glad I….

  Took nights off. Some nights, I would skip out on the clubs or the pubs and opt for an 8 hour sleep, in order to be rested for a
  big day + huge night the day after. Never regretted it, except for missing the Eiffel Tower at night.
  In Barcelona, I’m particularly glad I stayed in. A few people who went out into the wild Barcelona night got mugged. Barcelona is bad
  for that. Be extra extra careful. Losing cameras/phones were devastating to people.

  Left room in my suitcase. Enough said.

  Bought things for myself, for around my apartment. I will forever be reminded of this trip.

  Did not spend too much on drinks, or cabbing. But I guess I’m lucky as I’m a lightweight.

  Went with an open mind – I hoped to make a couple friends, I ended up making 50. Completely stepped out of my comfort
  zone and took on the world with a whole new perspective. I’m glad I went out a lot, I didn’t expect to be interested in partying
  but once you know the people, it is an amazing time.

  Forced myself to stay awake until evening when I got to London. It was necessary to get my body back on a routine, even though
  I fell asleep a few times riding the hop-on hop-off bus around the city.

  Brought a purse that zips shut, and straps across my chest and sits on my hip, so that I could hold it at all times under my arm.

  Left my camera behind on big crazy nights out. Drinking + valuables is never a good idea.

  Had a travel pillow. Enough said. Soo comfy for those long hours on the bus, and looong hours on a plane. Your neck will
  never be sore again! And I’m talking about those bean-filled u-shaped ones. Everyone wanted one.

  Found some local cafes out of the way. Eating lunch there was more authentic, and cheaper! I’m not one for busy touristy places.

  Stay in the buddy system. If your not comfortable with transit, take a cab. You won’t regret it. Don’t talk to people or go into
  places your not comfortable with. Always be respectful and learn the basic greetings.

  Brought an umbrella and windbreaker.

  What I wish I did…

  The first night in Paris, I was exhausted and went to bed early. A few girls ventured out without me and ended up getting onto
  the Eiffel Tower with no lines – apparently it was beautiful! Sad. Oh well..

  Forced myself up for the Vatican Tour. Would of loved to see the Sistine Chapel… however, most people said it was a four hour
  tourist trap and you could barely hear the guide. So I’ve reconciled with myself for sleeping in that day. I needed the sleep.

  My tour: European Escapade May-June 2012, 28 days I wish I had known... That my straightener would blow. Canadians and Americans, don't bring your expensive straighteners! If you love straightening your hair, just buy a European one. I wish I did, the GHD's looked amazing so I would have loved to own one anyway. Instead, I just borrowed from everyone the whole trip which got frustrating. That we would go out almost every night. Whether it was to a random Karaoke bar, a fancy dinner, a sex show in Amsterdam, or the Monte Carlo casino... there was always a requirement for a nice outfit. Girls! I'm not saying heels. But skirts, dresses, nice flats... I ended up wanting a new outfit every time, so me and the girls would go insane when we saw an H&M or Zara... my suitcase doubled in size, all for the sake of looking nice when I went out. I wish I would of known to START with lots of nice clothes. The Europeans do dress very nice! But again, personal style & taste. That I wouldn't have time to load my photos, or write blogs, etc.. etc... It was just a go-go-go. Instead I gaurded my memory cards like a hawk. I'm still not entirely sure what an alternative to keeping my photos safe would have been. And as for keeping up on the internet, a quick message home and a status update on facebook is reasonable based on the amount of spare time you have! That I WOULD get sick. I'd heard about the Contiki cough, thought it might be a myth. I was smart enough to bring Vitamin C, Halls, painkillers and Cold FX - but I wish that I had gone to my doctor and specifically asked for antibiotics. See, for me, when I get sick it inflammes my glands causing painful swallowing and pain in my ears. I should have known. But oh well, what can you do? Everyone just kept on going - your only in Europe once, swallow the pain and just keep going! For me, personally, I wish I had known to go single. Unless your with your partner, or you have a serious partner you trust that your leaving behind. I ended up becoming single two weeks in, and it was such a relief to just relax and enjoy these people that you might never see again without worries of staying loyal. Yes, Contiki has rumors of being hook-up central. But it was a bit more deep than that, you form bonds with everyone and "fall in love" with everyone in a way. In my opinion it's quite smart to go Contiki without any ties unless you have a serious relationship back home. Bring ziploc bags for your toiletries, but ALSO bring a proper makeup bag. You will appreciate it once your there. I disliked using out of ziploc bags for a month very strongly. OH, and remember a toothbrush holder, or else all your makeup etc. will get soggy! Brought more warm clothes. I misunderestimated Europe in May. Another pair of sweats, socks, and a big comfy hoodie would of been greatly appreciated. Mitts and scarves as well, and even snowpants and boots if you plan to go up Jungfrau Mountain in Switzerland. Stick with the same type of drink all night. That a "special brownie" in Amsterdam is not smart if you don't do marijuana often. It will course through your body much too uncontrollably, stick with a joint! Plus mixing it with drinks is a horrible idea. I passed out on the boardwalk, thankfully I had 50 friends to take care of me. I'm glad I.... Took nights off. Some nights, I would skip out on the clubs or the pubs and opt for an 8 hour sleep, in order to be rested for a big day + huge night the day after. Never regretted it, except for missing the Eiffel Tower at night. In Barcelona, I'm particularly glad I stayed in. A few people who went out into the wild Barcelona night got mugged. Barcelona is bad for that. Be extra extra careful. Losing cameras/phones were devastating to people. Left room in my suitcase. Enough said. Bought things for myself, for around my apartment. I will forever be reminded of this trip. Did not spend too much on drinks, or cabbing. But I guess I'm lucky as I'm a lightweight. Went with an open mind - I hoped to make a couple friends, I ended up making 50. Completely stepped out of my comfort zone and took on the world with a whole new perspective. I'm glad I went out a lot, I didn't expect to be interested in partying but once you know the people, it is an amazing time. Forced myself to stay awake until evening when I got to London. It was necessary to get my body back on a routine, even though I fell asleep a few times riding the hop-on hop-off bus around the city. Brought a purse that zips shut, and straps across my chest and sits on my hip, so that I could hold it at all times under my arm. Left my camera behind on big crazy nights out. Drinking + valuables is never a good idea. Had a travel pillow. Enough said. Soo comfy for those long hours on the bus, and looong hours on a plane. Your neck will never be sore again! And I'm talking about those bean-filled u-shaped ones. Everyone wanted one. Found some local cafes out of the way. Eating lunch there was more authentic, and cheaper! I'm not one for busy touristy places. Stay in the buddy system. If your not comfortable with transit, take a cab. You won't regret it. Don't talk to people or go into places your not comfortable with. Always be respectful and learn the basic greetings. Brought an umbrella and windbreaker. What I wish I did... The first night in Paris, I was exhausted and went to bed early. A few girls ventured out without me and ended up getting onto the Eiffel Tower with no lines - apparently it was beautiful! Sad. Oh well.. Forced myself up for the Vatican Tour. Would of loved to see the Sistine Chapel... however, most people said it was a four hour tourist trap and you could barely hear the guide. So I've reconciled with myself for sleeping in that day. I needed the sleep. or Cancel
  • 6 people like this

• 23 Oct 2012 tanya86 said

  

  hey guys im going on my first contiki with camping im stressed about phone chargers and camera chargers is there ways you can charge your stuff and s;eeping stuff what to take????

  hey guys im going on my first contiki with camping im stressed about phone chargers and camera chargers is there ways you can charge your stuff and s;eeping stuff what to take???? or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 3 Nov 2012 Megz said

  

  I just wanted to ask, ive read a few times in here that contiki is strict about the weight of your luggage at the start of the tour, but how strict are they about suitcase height. I know they say height of 29’ but mine is 30’ will that be ok?

  I just wanted to ask, ive read a few times in here that contiki is strict about the weight of your luggage at the start of the tour, but how strict are they about suitcase height. I know they say height of 29' but mine is 30' will that be ok? or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 29 Nov 2012 RJ1817 said

  

  ya, they don’t really care about the dimesions of your suitcase, as long as it isnt way over the limit. It’s weight that matters (just at the start of your tour though)

  ya, they don't really care about the dimesions of your suitcase, as long as it isnt way over the limit. It's weight that matters (just at the start of your tour though) or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 30 Nov 2012 Megz said

  

  Thanks RJ1817 I just got new suitcases and they are 29" so its good to know their not to strict on the dimensions. I leave July 12, 2013 and it can’t come soon enough

  Thanks RJ1817 I just got new suitcases and they are 29" so its good to know their not to strict on the dimensions. I leave July 12, 2013 and it can't come soon enough or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 4 Dec 2012 jimwilso said

  

  The list of things which were required but did not pack is a good question indeed :)

  The list of things which were required but did not pack is a good question indeed :) or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 11 Dec 2012 amanda said

  

  I was wondering, I am going on the ROAD TO ATHENS PLUS 7 DAY GREEK ISLANDS CRUISE on april 23rd 2013 with a friend from work.. anyone else going??
  also, did anyone bring their laptop and regret it?

  I was wondering, I am going on the ROAD TO ATHENS PLUS 7 DAY GREEK ISLANDS CRUISE on april 23rd 2013 with a friend from work.. anyone else going?? also, did anyone bring their laptop and regret it? or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 18 Dec 2012 Kristie1986 said

  

  @tanya86: there’s approx 4 australian power points on the bus that u can use, so with this in mind bringing a power board with u is pretty smart. I hear “charger parties” in the campsite bathrooms are how it’s mostly done. ie everyone sitting around drinking whilst charging. I also remember reading somewhere that there’s power points in the cook tent…maybe someone can verify?

  @tanya86: there's approx 4 australian power points on the bus that u can use, so with this in mind bringing a power board with u is pretty smart. I hear "charger parties" in the campsite bathrooms are how it's mostly done. ie everyone sitting around drinking whilst charging. I also remember reading somewhere that there's power points in the cook tent...maybe someone can verify? or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 18 Dec 2012 Kelsey said

  

  @kristie1986
  The power plugs on the bus are European on the European yours not Australian, and it depends on the bus driver but we weren’t allowed to use power boards on the bus because it would be too much power, but still bring power boards because they are good to use especially if you are in a cabin with 4 people and only one PowerPoint. And I can’t remember if there were powerpoints in the cook tent but no way are you allowed to use them if there were, the cook tents are strictly off limits unless you are in there helping with cooking/dishes

  @kristie1986 The power plugs on the bus are European on the European yours not Australian, and it depends on the bus driver but we weren't allowed to use power boards on the bus because it would be too much power, but still bring power boards because they are good to use especially if you are in a cabin with 4 people and only one PowerPoint. And I can't remember if there were powerpoints in the cook tent but no way are you allowed to use them if there were, the cook tents are strictly off limits unless you are in there helping with cooking/dishes or Cancel
  • 0 people like this

• 18 Dec 2012 Kelsey said

  

  @kristie1986
  The power plugs on the bus are European on the European yours not Australian, and it depends on the bus driver but we weren’t allowed to use power boards on the bus because it would be too much power, but still bring power boards because they are good to use especially if you are in a cabin with 4 people and only one PowerPoint. And I can’t remember if there were powerpoints in the cook tent but no way are you allowed to use them if there were, the cook tents are strictly off limits unless you are in there helping with cooking/dishes

  @kristie1986 The power plugs on the bus are European on the European yours not Australian, and it depends on the bus driver but we weren't allowed to use power boards on the bus because it would be too much power, but still bring power boards because they are good to use especially if you are in a cabin with 4 people and only one PowerPoint. And I can't remember if there were powerpoints in the cook tent but no way are you allowed to use them if there were, the cook tents are strictly off limits unless you are in there helping with cooking/dishes or Cancel
  • 0 people like this