Europe Trip Summer 2011

[nrbarens]

Hey All!

This summer I plan to study abroad in Italy for two weeks, but when my class leaves I plan to stay there with one other student for the rest of the summer. This is my first time doing something like this ... although I have traveled Central America a few times. One concern or question I have ... is there a time limit that I'm allowed to stay in Europe?? I remember hearing or reading somewhere that there is a 90 day travel limit, but I'm not sure if that's specific to the countries I visited in Central America. Also ... is it cheaper for two people to get the group rate for the Eutrail or buy them individually? We're both 21 and I wasn't sure if we're allowed the youth rates. Lastly, how important is traveler's insurance?

Thanks for your help!

[nrbarens]

To clarify ... we aren't staying in Italy. We will be backpacking all over Europe. We have a tentative list of countries and cities as of right now, but we need to figure out a definite time limit before we plan it out any further.

Thanks again!

[Eagle]

nrbarens,

Welcome to the Boards!

First of all, the information you heard regarding the length of time you can stay in Europe is correct. Under the terms of the Schengen Visa, tourists are allowed 90-days in the Schengen zone, which includes most of the countries in western Europe. Penalties for over staying the limit can be severe!

If this is your first trip to Europe, I'd highly recommend pre-reading the Guidebook "Europe Through The Back Door" before you leave. That will provide you with lots of information on the things you'll need to know for travelling in Europe.

A Railpass is a good idea in some circumstances, but it's important to have a general idea of your Itinerary before deciding on that. Railpasses are not the value they once were. One important point to keep in mind is that Passes do not include the reservation fees that are compulsory on some trains (usually the fast trains such as the TGV in France or the EuroStar Italia / Alta Velocita in Italy). Those must be paid separately "out of pocket". Especially in Italy, DON'T be caught without a valid reservation on a train that requires one, as you'll be fined on the spot! I noticed this year that many Conductors are now carrying portable Terminals, so the fine will be removed from your account before you get off the train!

Good luck with your planning!