Emily Pogue reflects on her six-month European adventure, sharing lessons learned and offering tips for future travelers looking to make the most of their journeys.
Traveling around Europe for six months was an unforgettable experience. From the bustling streets of Paris to the serene landscapes of the Czech Republic, I had the chance to explore new cultures, historical landmarks, and vibrant cities. However, looking back, there are a few things I wish I had done differently to enhance my trip. Here are five lessons I’ve learned for my next adventure.
1. Use Voice Notes to Document Experiences
As a writer, I thought journaling would be second nature to me. Yet, by the end of the trip, I found myself too exhausted to write consistently. Instead, I discovered the convenience of voice notes. Recording quick reflections on my phone during walks back to my hotel helped me capture the day’s details more naturally and effectively. On especially memorable days, like attending the Summer Olympics in Paris, voice notes would have preserved the magic of the moment. In the future, I’ll rely more on voice notes to document my travels in real-time.
2. Account for Train Delays
As an American, I had always been impressed by Europe’s rail system. However, traveling by train during the busy summer season introduced new challenges. Train delays became a recurring issue, which led to frustratingly long and complicated travel days. One of my longest days involved switching between six trains due to a delayed connection. I learned the importance of leaving a buffer time between train transfers. Next time, I’ll ensure I have at least 30 minutes to avoid stressful situations and give myself more time to relax between journeys.
3. Attend More Concerts and Festivals
While in England during peak music-festival season, I didn’t fully take advantage of the live music opportunities around me. A local mentioned seeing Hozier perform just down the street on the very day I was leaving. Unfortunately, my rigid travel schedule meant I had to miss the show. On future trips, I’ll research upcoming concerts and festivals beforehand to ensure I don’t miss out on experiences like this.
4. Indulge in More Local Desserts
With a major sweet tooth, I found myself surrounded by tempting pastries and desserts in nearly every country I visited—Victoria sponge cake and scones in England, macarons in France, and kolaches in the Czech Republic. Despite my cravings, I sometimes convinced myself that I didn’t need to splurge too often. Now back in the States, I regret not sampling more of the local treats, as food is an essential part of any culture. Next time, I’ll be sure to indulge more in local desserts without feeling guilty.
5. Wake Up Early to Explore a City in Peace
I’m not naturally a morning person, but I learned the value of getting up early to explore cities before they’re overrun with tourists. One of my most memorable moments was waking up before dawn in Prague to catch the sunrise on the Charles Bridge. The bridge was eerily quiet, and I had the whole place to myself. Experiencing a city in the early morning light provided a peaceful and unique perspective, and it’s something I’ll definitely do more of in the future.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my six months in Europe were a dream come true, but these small adjustments could have made my experience even more enjoyable. By incorporating these lessons into future travels, I’ll be better prepared to fully embrace every moment and create even more unforgettable memories.
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