EUROPE…A complex continent, filled with diversity and paradoxes, ancient history and modern conveniences, lush fields, pulsating cities, rocky beaches, and snowy mountains. Thanks to its charm, beauty, mystery, and sophisticated culture, Europe is one of the most desired destinations of many travelers. However, for the unseasoned tourist, Europe can be challenging, expensive, and a bit overwhelming without proper planning and guidance.

As I’ve been traveling extensively through Europe the past several months, I’ve learned first-hand some secrets that will help you navigate through transportation complexities, utilize the exchange rate to your advantage, and maximize your positive experiences. By following these few simple tips of the trade, your next European journey will not only be the adventure of a lifetime, but a surprising success as well!

Request a Meet and Greet Service

For American travelers, one of the most frustrating travel experiences is navigating customs upon arrival, especially if there’s a language barrier. After nearly 20 hours of flying over the water and being herded through one airport security line after another, anyone can feel pretty tired and jostled once they’ve reached their final destination.

To relieve some of the stress, I recommend requesting a “Meet and Greet” transfer service when booking your trip. These services are not expensive and are well worth the savings in time and energy!

A typical Meet and Greet service will meet you at the airport upon arrival, escort you through customs, help retrieve your luggage at baggage claim, assist in transporting luggage through the airport, and walk you to the transfer vehicle. From there, the service will drive you to your hotel where the bellman will pick up the luggage and escort you to check-in.

My wife and I have used a Meet and Greet service several times during our recent travels, and it has been one the most well-invested parts of our budget! We were even surprised at how quickly Queen of Clubs Concierge moved us through the express line at customs in London. Thanks to their friendly and efficient service, we shaved a good half-hour off our entry time. (To request a Meet and Greet transfer service for your next trip, simply contact my office.)

Book a Private Tour

Another recommended way of experiencing Europe is touring the city with a private guide. Many local companies (especially within the Virtuoso network) offer pre-packaged or customized private tours of your destination. The guides of such excursions are usually highly qualified locals who are trained, educated, and extremely knowledgeable of their city, its history, people, and culture. (Many of the guides we’ve worked with in Europe have a PhD and are fluent in multiple languages.)

Depending on availability and preference, private tours can consist of a walking tour, a driving tour, or a combination of both and can be booked for a few hours, half-day, or full day. Upon booking, the tour can be arranged with a meeting place in your hotel lobby or at a central location within walking distance of your hotel. From there, the guide will personally escort you through some of the best highlights of the city, providing a fully-researched commentary, personal anecdotes, and lively conversation. You’ll walk away from this experience being well-informed, enlightened, and just a bit more cultured than when you first arrived.

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Travel by Train

If you plan on booking a multi-city trip across Europe, I also recommend utilizing the train systems en lieu of airports. Not only is this mode of transportation far more comfortable and less stressful than flying, but the train systems on the continent are also highly developed and efficient. Within just a few hours, a commuter can travel from one capital city to another in a nearby country with very little effort. Need to work while in transit? No problem! The trains come fully connected, providing complimentary wifi to all passengers.

On our last trip to Europe, we opted for the three-hour train commute from Vienna to Prague. In addition to watching some pretty amazing scenery through our windows, we were able to make our time productive…both of us worked, contacted clients, and enjoyed breakfast and coffee from the dining menu. We arrived in Prague refreshed, accomplished, and relaxed!

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Visit Eastern Europe

Some of the most beautiful hidden gems of the continent are the former Soviet Union nations. Rich in history and diverse in culture, these destinations offer a better value market for the American dollar, gorgeous vistas, undiscovered sights, and valuable lessons in history. From the crystal green waters of Croatia to the bohemian vibe in Budapest, the former USSR countries are a must-see for both the non-experienced and well-seasoned European traveler. And if you prefer off-the-beaten-path adventures, Eastern Europe is definitely a destination well suited for your bold palette!

Since December, my wife and I have journeyed through Croatia, Prague, Budapest, and Warsaw, enjoying the sights, meeting the locals, touring several of the high-end properties, and hearing insightful stories of the people. One of our favorite off-the-road discoveries was the Plitvicka Lakes, a natural lake and falls reserve in central Croatia. Covering more than 73,000 acres, this UNESCO World Heritage site includes 16 lakes, dozens of waterfalls, and multiple rivers flowing through the mountains and ranging in jewel-tone green waters to sapphire blues streams. (If your adventurous heart just quickened with this description, contact me today and I’ll book you a package tour of Croatia!)

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Celebrate Something Special

Finally, who could leave Europe without making some special lifetime memories? If you’re celebrating a birthday or graduation, honeymoon or anniversary, promotion or another milestone, Europe is THE place to ring in those special moments.

If you plan on celebrating a special occasion in Europe, be sure to plan ahead. Bring a card or gift with you, make reservations at a special restaurant, book a dinner cruise, order room service, or even request flowers from the concierge. Any of these gestures will certainly add that extra special magic to your already memorable moment!

Last month, while we were checking out contacts and properties in Budapest, my wife celebrated her 37th birthday. To surprise her, I called concierge ahead of time and placed an order for flowers and a small chocolate birthday cake to be delivered to our room on the morning of her birthday. The friendly staff at the Four Seasons Budapest was happy to oblige, helping me make my wife’s birthday a very special day for her. (Bonus: If you’re booking a trip over a holiday or special occasion, be sure to let me know. I’ll work with you to plan some extra surprises during your trip!)

Whether you’re planning on visiting Europe to celebrate a momentous occasion or venturing out into the beauty of the continent, there are many ways to experience Europe like never before. Thanks to the current currency market and fantastic airline rates, now is the time to book your lifetime trip across the Atlantic. All it takes is a little planning, booking with the right advisor, and taking that step to make your European travel dreams come true!

PLAN YOUR LUXURY TRIP TO EUROPE TODAY!