With a bit of foresight and these simple tricks up your sleeve, you’ll spend less time queuing, and more time sipping cocktails on your European summer holiday.

Whether it’s sipping Aperol Spritz in Rome, people-watching in Parisian cafes, or beach hopping in the Greek islands, a summer holiday in Europe sounds like the ultimate dream. But with the dream comes reality — crowds, scorching heat, and queues that stretch longer than your patience. Airports are jam-packed, popular sights book out weeks in advance, and even finding a decent table for dinner can feel like a mission. The good news? A little planning can save you a lot of stress. Here’s your go-to guide for a smooth, sun-soaked European summer holiday — packed with practical tips, seasoned advice, and a dose of travel-savvy smarts.

Here Are 13 Travel Tips For Your Next European Summer Holiday:

1. Embrace The Siesta Mentality

First of, accept that Europe loves its leisure time. It’s not just Spain that slows down in the afternoon heat. Many shops and cafes in Southern Europe shut from around 1-4pm. Don’t panic — it’s normal. Use that time to recharge in your hotel or chill with a gelato in the shade. Then head back out when the locals do, usually around 5 or 6pm, when the cities come back to life.

2. Get Your Travel Documents In Order

Post-Brexit, UK passport holders can only stay in the Schengen Area for 90 days within any 180-day period. Your passport also needs to be less than 10 years old and have at least three months’ validity left from your planned return date. Double-check visa requirements too if you’re heading outside the Schengen zone, like to Croatia or Bulgaria.

3. Book Trains And Flights Early

It’s no secret: summer is peak season in Europe. And while spontaneous travel has its charm, it’s not your friend during July and August. European train tickets — especially high-speed ones like Italy’s Frecciarossa or France’s TGV — can sell out weeks in advance and get pricier the longer you wait. Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet also hike up prices fast. Try booking at least 2-3 months out for the best fares.

4. Stay Hydrated

Europe has some of the safest tap water in the world. Cities like Rome, Zurich, and Vienna offer free public fountains — some dating back centuries — that still flow with fresh, drinkable water. Bring a reusable water bottle with you, save money, and cut down on plastic waste.

5. Time Your City Visits Carefully

Paris in mid-August? You might find more tourists than locals. Italians, Spaniards, and the French often head out of the cities and close up shop for their own holidays. This can mean fewer crowds in big cities, but also more limited restaurant and shop options. The best compromise? Late June or early September-still sunny, but with fewer crowds.

6. Use Local Transport Like A Pro

Skip the Ubers and pricey taxis. Public transport in Europe is clean, safe, and well-connected. Grab a travel card in cities like London, Berlin or Lisbon, or download transport apps like Citymapper and Moovit for real-time updates. Don’t forget to validate your train or tram ticket before boarding in places like Italy and Germany. Or you can rent up a bicycle and explore the city like a local. Bliss!

7. Be Wary Of Tourist Traps

Avoid restaurants with menus in ten languages and flashing photos of paella. A good rule of thumb: Walk a few streets away from major landmarks to find more authentic (and affordable) food. Also, always check Google or TripAdvisor reviews before booking anything major — from guided tours to boat rentals.

8. Learn A Few Key Phrases

Even if you butcher the pronunciation, locals appreciate the effort. Knowing how to say “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” in the local language goes a long way. It’s respectful, and in some countries (hello, France), it can actually make a difference in the service you receive.

9. Pack Light, Pack Smart

You won’t enjoy dragging a massive suitcase over cobblestone streets in 30 degrees Celsius heat — promise. Go for a compact, carry-on-sized suitcase or a good travel backpack. Stick to breathable fabrics (linen, cotton), neutral colours, and layers. Most places have laundry facilities, and you’ll thank yourself every time you walk up a flight of stairs in a centuries-old building with no lift.

10. Watch Out For Pickpockets

Major tourist hubs like Barcelona, Rome and Paris are known for skilled pickpockets — especially in crowded metro stations and around landmarks. Keep your bag zipped, wear a crossbody, and never put your phone or wallet in your back pocket. A cheap money belt or anti-theft bag is a smart shout.

11. Ditch The Foreign Transaction Fees

Many UK banks charge for every purchase or ATM withdrawal overseas. Save money with a travel-friendly card like Monzo, Starling or Revolut. They offer fee-free spending and real exchange rates, plus handy budgeting tools.

12. Make Restaurant Reservations

In popular destinations like Florence, Santorini or Dubrovnik, the best spots get booked solid weeks in advance — especially for dinner with a view. Booking ahead not only guarantees you a table but also saves you from wandering around hangry at 9pm.

13. Don’t Try To See It All

Yes, you could technically do 7 countries in 14 days, but should you? Europe is best savoured, not rushed. Pick fewer destinations and stay longer — you’ll soak up more culture, find hidden gems, and won’t feel like you’re constantly packing and unpacking.

Eco-conscious travellers are increasingly seeking out destinations that combine natural beauty with sustainability.

As travellers become more eco-conscious, the search for greener, cleaner, and more sustainable destinations is on the rise. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a responsible tourist, or simply someone who finds peace in lush surroundings, the world has countless green gems waiting to be explored. Here are eight of the greenest destinations where nature’s beauty is matched only by a commitment to sustainability — places you’re bound to fall in love with.

1. Costa Rica

Known as one of the most sustainable countries in the world, Costa Rica is a haven for eco-travellers. With over 25% of its land protected by national parks and reserves, it’s teeming with rainforests, volcanoes, and biodiversity. From ziplining through Monteverde Cloud Forest to relaxing in the eco-luxury of Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica makes green travel effortlessly exciting.

2. New Zealand

From the fjords of Milford Sound to the rolling hills of Hobbiton, New Zealand’s natural beauty is matched by its dedication to environmental preservation. The country has bold sustainability goals, aiming to be carbon-neutral by 2050. Eco-lodges, organic farms, and clean energy projects make it a model of responsible tourism.

3. Bhutan

This Himalayan kingdom measures success through Gross National Happiness — and environmental sustainability is at its core. Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country in the world. Forests cover over 70% of its land, and tourism is tightly regulated to ensure minimal impact. Visiting Bhutan is like stepping into a serene, untouched paradise.

4. Slovenia

A rising star in eco-tourism, Slovenia blends sustainability with fairy-tale charm. The capital, Ljubljana, has been awarded Europe’s Green Capital, thanks to its pedestrian-friendly streets and green initiatives. From Lake Bled to Triglav National Park, Slovenia offers natural beauty with an eco-conscious soul.

5. Iceland

Iceland is a geothermal wonderland powered almost entirely by renewable energy. Whether you’re hiking glaciers, soaking in hot springs, or watching the northern lights, you’ll be doing so with minimal environmental impact. The country is committed to sustainable tourism through its “Icelandic Pledge” — encouraging travelers to respect nature and leave no trace.

6. Norway

Norway is a leader in clean energy and sustainable travel. With vast fjords, forests, and Arctic wildlife, the country is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The government invests heavily in conservation, electric transportation, and green innovation — making Norway one of the cleanest and greenest countries in the world.

7. Kenya

Kenya is pioneering eco-tourism in Africa. Its protected savannahs and wildlife reserves, like the Maasai Mara, are maintained through community-based conservation efforts. Many safari lodges now operate with solar power, rainwater harvesting, and low-impact design, offering travelers a responsible way to experience Africa’s iconic wildlife.

8. Finland

Ranked consistently as one of the world’s happiest and greenest countries, Finland is a forest lover’s dream. With over 70% forest cover and a deep respect for nature, Finnish culture embraces eco-living. Whether you’re enjoying the midnight sun in Lapland or forest bathing near a tranquil lake, Finland offers green travel with soul-soothing simplicity.

Falling in love with these green destinations doesn’t just mean admiring their beauty — it also means supporting the efforts that protect and preserve them. Whether you’re trekking through jungles, relaxing by pristine lakes, or learning from indigenous communities, these places remind us how travel can be both enriching and responsible.

Our simple steps will ensure a worry-free getaway so you can rest and relax, even in a foreign country.

Having a food allergy impacts many aspects of life, including travel. According to a study in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 90% of people with food allergy in the United States avoid international travel, with many of them avoiding certain modes of transport within the United States, such as airplanes. Apart from the risks of exposure on public transport, vacationers with food allergies are concerned about language barriers (including interpreting food labels), access to safe foods, and problems accessing medical services in an emergency. But safe travel is possible with a few smart steps.

Don’t Let Your Food Allergies Cancel the Trip

The mere thought of traveling abroad with food allergies might be daunting, but you don’t have to miss out. “With research, careful prep, and some planning ahead, people with food allergies can safely enjoy the sights, tastes, smells, and experiences of traveling the world,” says Westchester, NY-based registered dietitian nutritionist and National Peanut Board partner Malina Malkani, R.D.N., who is the author of Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention. You can’t leave your food allergies at home, but these expert tips have got you covered.

Do Your Research

The more you plan ahead, the more comfortable you’ll feel heading to foreign locales. If you’re staying at a hotel, Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) recommends emailing reception to let them know about your allergy. It’s likely that someone who works at the hotel speaks English, but you can use an online translation service for emails if that’s not the case. Ask about allergy-free meal options and find out if there are local doctors who specialize in allergy. It’s important to know if they’ll be able to write you a prescription for extra meds or epinephrine auto-injectors if you need them.

Create an Allergy Action Plan

When you’ve done your trip research, put together a personalized allergy action plan. Work with your doctor and/or registered dietitian nutritionist to ensure you don’t miss anything important. “The plan should detail what your allergens are, what your prior reactions have looked like, and what medications have been prescribed to you,” says Kelly Cleary, M.D., senior director of education and support programs for FARE. “Don’t forget to list an emergency contact with a phone number,” Dr. Cleary adds. To make this super simple, FARE has a downloadable emergency care plan template you can print out and complete with your details.

Pack Your Anti-Allergy Essentials

As well as your regular allergy meds—and let’s face it, you’re unlikely to venture far without those—make sure you pack extra epinephrine auto-injectors for severe reactions (and be sure to check the expiration dates!), says Malkani. Take some allergy-safe snacks for your journey, plus a list of names of your offending allergens in the languages of the areas you’ll be visiting and of course several copies of your allergy action plan. Ideally, include copies of your plan translated into the language of your destination country, Malkani adds.

Keep Emergency Items Close

Nobody wants to lose their luggage while they’re traveling, but this can become a life-threatening situation if you have a food allergy and get separated from your emergency essentials. “Keep copies of your action plan and at least two epinephrine auto-injectors with you at all times—not in checked luggage or overhead bins,” says Malkani. “Having these items within reach and in a language that those around you can understand saves valuable time in the event of an anaphylactic emergency, which is important because airlines can’t guarantee allergen-free flights and language barriers complicate things,” she explains.

Don’t Assume the Worst

One study review carried out by the U.K.’s Civil Aviation Authority found that for a typical food-allergic passenger on a commercial flight, the risk of having a reaction is around 10 to 100 times lower than when “on the ground.” Why? Anxious food-allergic passengers are likely to take significant precautions to reduce the risk of in-flight reactions. The study found wiping the tray table and seatback was effective for reducing risk. “Numerous studies have shown that airborne peanut protein has a very low risk for causing allergic reactions,” Malkani adds. “Also, research doesn’t support skin contact or airborne peanut butter exposure as a source of anaphylaxis.”

Research Allergen Labeling Laws

Food allergen labeling laws in your destination country may be different from what you’re used to, so it’s crucial that you do your due diligence. “Learn how to read your allergen on labels in the language so that you are able to identify it quickly,” says Dr. Cleary. “I always plan ahead when traveling by looking up nearby grocery stores and checking food allergy travel boards to see tips posted from others with food allergies who have visited my destination.” Visit FARE for helpful lists of travel tips from countries represented by the International Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Alliance.

Create Your Own Chef Cards

Dining out can be one of the most pleasurable parts of foreign travel, but planning is key. “Before you leave, research just as you would for a local eating establishment,” says Dr. Cleary. “Check out menus and when making special requests, give as much lead time as you can to restaurant staff. Dining off-peak may help you get the attention you need. Don’t be shy about asking questions and confirming that your allergies are understood.” FARE provides illustrated chef card templates that you can download and complete to make it easier to communicate with restaurant staff in other countries.

Enjoy Your Trip

Naturally, living with a food allergy means taking more precautions than other people (and possibly experiencing more travel-related anxiety). But if you take all the important steps you’ll feel prepared—and safe. Don’t forget to let your primary care doctor or allergist know you’re traveling. Having them available to call, email, or fax you a prescription that you can use in your destination country for extra auto-injectors gives you an extra layer of comfort. Finally, don’t let your food allergy stop you from enjoying your trip!

It’s that time of year when the weather’s perfect and you have a ton of free time to do whatever you want. Yes, we are talking about summer break. And what better way to make the most of it than planning an epic getaway with your friends?

Whether you’re dreaming of beach days or city adventures, a trip with your favorite people is hands-down one of the best ways to soak up the season.

However, group trips can go from fun to frustrating quickly if no one’s on the same page. That is why a little planning is a must. You don’t need to micromanage every second. But getting the basics down can seriously save you from the group chat chaos.

Here are a few tips to help you plan a getaway that is fun, chill, and full of memories.

#1 Settle on a Vibe

Before you even think about destinations or start throwing out Airbnb links, pause. What’s the vibe of this trip—decide that first. This guides every other decision.

What does your ultimate escape look like: beach relaxation, city exploration, mountain hikes, or a road trip? Everyone might have a different idea, so it’s important to talk about it early.

Hop on a quick group call or throw a poll in the chat. Make sure everyone’s expectations line up.

Picking a destination like New Orleans isn’t enough. You need to agree on the focus. Is it history tours and museums? Or hitting Bourbon Street for nightlife? Deciding the vibe clarifies these priorities.

Lock in the general vibe first, and choosing a location becomes a whole lot easier. You don’t need to agree on every single detail. But being aligned on the overall feel makes it way easier to plan stuff everyone will enjoy.

Compromise is key here. Maybe one person wants the beach, but another dreams of hiking. Could you combine elements of both? Perhaps a coastal town with nearby trails?

#2 Book Early, Stress Less

Summer is the prime time for travel.

Last summer, in particular, was a busy travel season for Americans. As many as 95% of respondents in a survey planned to travel, despite concerns about economic headwinds.

That trend hasn’t slowed. Flights, hotels, and cool rentals disappear fast. Waiting usually means paying more for fewer choices. Don’t risk missing out.

For domestic travel, book flights around 28 days before departure. Expedia’s 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report states that this hack can save you up to 24% more than booking at the last minute. Conversely, book your flight around 60 days in advance for international flights.

Hotels and rental cars are trickier. Use comparison websites, for they can help you compare options and find the best rates.

Choose options with free cancellations. This guarantees you have reservations. If prices drop significantly later, cancel and rebook the cheaper rate.

Managing group bookings needs a system. Designate one organized friend to handle the main bookings.

#3 Plan Out Some Activities Ahead of Time

Spontaneity can be fun on vacation. But winging everything with a group can lead to chaos. For a group trip, a basic plan is important.

You don’t need a minute-by-minute itinerary. But having a loose plan keeps things smooth.

Try to lock in a few key activities that everyone’s excited about—especially ones that need booking. Popular tours often sell out weeks or months ahead.

Let’s suppose you’re heading to San Diego. U.S. News & World Report states that the Californian city offers some of the best tours, including boat tours.

While whale watching is a must, you definitely won’t want to miss out on a booze cruise in San Diego. You get ocean views, great music, drinks, and solid vibes all in one.

But don’t assume you can just show up and grab tickets. Those cruises book out, especially in summer. It would be wise to book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Tickets on weekends are slightly pricier than on weekdays. But Tiki Time Bay Tours notes that you can get coveted group rates if your group consists of 10 or more people.

#4 Pack Smart, Not Like You’re Moving

The urge to bring your entire closet just in case is real. But dragging heavy suitcases around takes the fun out of travel. So, pack light.

Lay out what you think you’ll need—then cut it by, like, a third. You don’t need seven pairs of shoes for a five-day trip. Pick versatile stuff you can mix and match. Bonus points if it doesn’t wrinkle.

Pack for the destination, not your fantasy version of it. If you’re hitting the beach, you probably don’t need heels. Going to the mountains? Maybe skip the crop tops and pack a hoodie.

Shoes are space hogs! Limit yourself to two or three pairs max. Wear the bulkiest pair on the plane to save room.

For toiletries, use travel-sized containers. Remember, most hotels provide shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Coordinate with your friends. Can you share toothpaste or sunscreen? And don’t forget the essentials: chargers, meds, sunscreen, and your ID.

Go Make Some Memories!

Group trips aren’t always perfect—someone will be late, something will go sideways, and you’ll probably forget something minor. But if you go in with the right mindset and just a little planning, it will be the kind of trip you will all talk about for years.

So, rally the crew, settle the vibe, and get to planning. Summer won’t wait forever and neither will that perfect Airbnb with the hot tub.