rissama
Senior Travel Member
"What is hodie Latin for?" "Today." "What's a good way to remember that?" "Ho. Die. Today."
Posts: 78
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Post by rissama on Dec 1, 2007 21:32:15 GMT -5
I can't really think of much to do until I actually go to Europe, other than get passports. We already planned a lot, so I don't know what else there is to do. Any suggestions?
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Post by me on Dec 1, 2007 23:25:28 GMT -5
depending where you're going, it might help to learn a few important words & phrases in the applicable languages.
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Post by pointofnoreturn on Dec 1, 2007 23:52:10 GMT -5
Photocopy the relevant pages of guidebooks into a notebook? That way you don't have to waste time leafing through thick books to get the information for an attraction you want to see. Plus, the notebook is handy to write down cool stuff or whatever
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Post by herrbert on Dec 2, 2007 8:00:13 GMT -5
A small study of the history and cultures of the places, is always a good idea. It will make you understand the city and the people living there.
I agree with David, only if you know a few words,you make a whole different impression on the 'locals.' It is also a sign of respect and courtesy to at least try.
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rissama
Senior Travel Member
"What is hodie Latin for?" "Today." "What's a good way to remember that?" "Ho. Die. Today."
Posts: 78
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Post by rissama on Dec 2, 2007 22:07:15 GMT -5
I don't think the photocopying thing will come in handy for a while since im going in 2011, but it is still a good idea. Learning the languages and culures is good. Got Spanish down, I take Latin right now, so I know the history of Italy, and my uncle said that Latin actually helped him in the countries that speak romance languages, but it couldn't help to learn some more. Got any other ideas? p.s. nshs2010 wants to bring an electronic translator instead of learning any of the languages. she told me she doesnt want to lug around phrasebooks. If anyone watches gilmore girls, i bet something from the end of the 3rd season is flashing across your brain right now. and btw i just had a can full of caffeine for the first time since like......june?
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Post by me on Dec 2, 2007 23:01:27 GMT -5
as we've never met, i don't know what shape you're in. if, like so many Americans, you're something of a couch potato - it would make the start of your trip easier if you did something to build your walking endurance.
- d
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Post by MuvverRussia on Dec 11, 2007 8:19:32 GMT -5
2011? Wow, that's ambitious planning . Personally, a lot of things are likely to have changed between now and then, so keep on top of what's going on, especially regarding EU expansion, the Euro and visa requirements. I wouldn't buy anything too expensive at this stage either - guidebooks quickly go out of date, backpack technology changes pretty quickly etc. As for the language, you'll probably be ok with just English. It's nice to have a few local words such as thank you etc too though.
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