Amsterdam
Do I need to speak Dutch to get around?
It’s always great to learn a few basic Dutch phrases, but most locals in Amsterdam speak English fluently, so getting around without Dutch won’t be an issue.
Should I purchase travel insurance?
Travel Insurance is not required but it is recommended. You can purchase travel insurance here
What is common to eat in Amsterdam?
Traditional Dutch foods include stroopwafels, herring, bitterballen, poffertjes, and Dutch cheeses like Gouda and Edam.
What language is spoken in Amsterdam?
Dutch is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
Do I need a rental car?
No, you don’t need a rental car. Amsterdam has excellent public transportation, including trams, buses, and trains. It’s also very bike-friendly, with bike rentals widely available.
Is tipping expected in Amsterdam?
Service charges are typically included in the bill, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated.
What is the currency in Amsterdam?
Can I drink tap water in Amsterdam?
Can I drink tap water in Amsterdam?
Yes, tap water in Amsterdam is safe to drink and of excellent quality.
What is the dress code in Amsterdam?
Casual attire is fine for most activities, but if you plan to visit upscale restaurants or venues, smart-casual clothing is recommended.
Is Amsterdam safe for tourists?
Yes, Amsterdam is generally safe. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and follow traffic rules, especially when cycling.
Can I use my credit cards in Amsterdam?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Amsterdam. However, some smaller establishments may only accept local debit cards or cash, so it’s good to carry a small amount of cash.
What public transportation options are available in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam has a reliable public transportation network, including trams, buses, ferries, and metro services. You can purchase single-use tickets or a multi-day travel pass.
Is Amsterdam a good destination for families?
Absolutely! Family-friendly attractions include the Artis Zoo, NEMO Science Museum, and canal cruises.
What is the local etiquette when dining out?
It’s polite to greet restaurant staff with "hallo" (hello) or "goedemiddag" (good afternoon) when entering. At the end of your meal, it’s common to ask for the bill by saying "de rekening, alstublieft."
Is Wi-Fi available in Amsterdam?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, restaurants, and public spaces. The city also offers free Wi-Fi at some hotspots.
Do I need a Visa to visit Amsterdam?
If you’re from a Schengen Agreement country, no visa is needed for stays under 90 days. For others, check your country’s visa requirements here
Scotland
Should I purchase travel insurance?
Travel insurance is not required but highly recommended, especially for activities like hiking, cycling, or exploring remote areas. You can purchase travel insurance here.
Is Scotland safe?
Scotland is considered to be very safe for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and locals are generally friendly and welcoming.
Is Scotland expensive?
Scotland can be expensive, particularly in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow. However, with careful planning, it’s possible to enjoy the country on a budget, especially by staying in hostels or budget accommodations and eating at local markets.
What kind of food is eaten in Scotland?
Scottish cuisine includes dishes like haggis (a savory pudding made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs), salmon, Scotch eggs, and neeps and tatties (mashed turnips and potatoes). Traditional breakfast items include porridge and a full Scottish breakfast.
Is a rental car the best option when traveling to Iceland?
A rental car is a great option if you plan to explore rural areas and the Highlands. Public transportation is excellent in cities, but renting a car offers more flexibility for seeing remote locations and scenic routes like the North Coast 500.
Can I drink tap water in Iceland?
Yes, tap water in Scotland is some of the cleanest and safest in the world. It is perfectly safe and delicious to drink.
What is the dress code in Iceland?
Dress casually and comfortably, but always be prepared for unpredictable weather. Layering is key, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Waterproof and windproof clothing is essential for outdoor activities, especially in the winter months.
Can I use my credit cards in Iceland?
Yes, credit and debit cards are widely accepted across Scotland, even for small purchases. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash for use in remote areas or small villages.
Is Iceland a good destination for families?
Yes, Scotland is an excellent destination for families. Activities like exploring castles, hiking, visiting museums, and taking boat tours are perfect for all ages. Cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow also offer family-friendly attractions.
What is the local etiquette when dining out?
When dining out in Scotland, it’s customary to greet the staff upon entering a restaurant. It’s polite to wait to be seated if it’s a formal setting. Tipping is common, generally around 10-15% of the bill if service is not included.
Do I need a Visa to visit Iceland?
U.S. citizens can visit Scotland (part of the United Kingdom) for up to 6 months without a visa. For a full list of countries that are exempt from a visa, visit the UK government’s immigration page. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Check requirements here.
London
What is the official language in London?
English is the official language in London, and it is widely spoken by locals..
What is the typical food eaten in London?
Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding, shepherds or cottage pie, fish and chips ( to be bought from a fish and chip shop, not a pub), full English breakfast and more!
What currency is used in London?
The official currency is the British Pound Sterling (£).
What are the main transportation options used in London?
The London Underground (Tube) is the most efficient way to get around. Buses, black cabs, and rideshare services like Uber are also popular. Walking and cycling are great for shorter distances.
Are there any tipping customs in London?
Tipping in London is optional but appreciated for good service. At restaurants, 10–12.5% is customary if service is not already included in the bill.
What kind of weather should I expect in London?
London has a temperate climate with mild winters and summers. Rain is common year-round, so packing an umbrella or waterproof jacket is a good idea.
Can I use public Wi-Fi in London?
Yes, public Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, restaurants, and transportation hubs. Many parks and public spaces also offer free Wi-Fi.
Is travel insurance necessary?
It is recommended but not mandatory. Purchase travel insurance here https://www.travelexinsurance.com/homepage?location=44-0110&go=bp
What are the Visa requirements when traveling to London?
Be sure to check personal Visa requirements here https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions
Switzerland
Do I need to speak German, French or Italian to get around?
It’s always great to learn a few basic words in the local language, but many Swiss locals speak English, especially in cities and tourist areas.
Should I purchase travel insurance?
Travel Insurance is not required but it is recommended. You can purchase travel insurance here https://www.travelexinsurance.com/homepage?location=44-0110&go=bp
What is common to eat in Switzerland?
Some must-try dishes include fondue, raclette, rösti, Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, Swiss chocolate, and Swiss cheese specialties.
What language is spoken in Switzerland?
Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. The language spoken depends on the region.
Do I need a rental car?
No, transportation will be provided to activities and the public transportation is fantastic.
Is tipping expected in Switzerland?
Service is usually included in restaurant bills, but it is common to round up or leave a small tip (5-10%) for excellent service.
What is the currency in Switzerland?
The currency in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF).
Can I drink tap water in Switzerland?
Yes, tap water in Switzerland is among the cleanest and safest in the world.
What is the dress code in Switzerland?
Casual attire is fine for most tourist activities, but people tend to dress neatly. If dining at upscale restaurants or visiting luxury venues, dressing more formally is recommended.
Is Switzerland safe for tourists?
Yes, Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world. However, always stay aware of your belongings, especially in busy tourist areas.
Can I use my credit cards in Switzerland?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas or small shops.
What public transportation options are available in Switzerland?
Switzerland has an excellent public transportation system, including the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), trams, buses, and boats. The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited travel on public transport.
Is Switzerland a good destination for families?
Absolutely! Switzerland has many family-friendly attractions, including the Swiss Transport Museum, Jungfraujoch, Mount Pilatus, and scenic train rides like the Glacier Express.
What is the local etiquette when dining out?
It’s customary to greet staff upon entering a restaurant by saying “Grüezi” (in German-speaking areas), “Bonjour” (in French-speaking areas), or “Buongiorno” (in Italian-speaking areas). Waiting for everyone to be served before eating is also polite.
Is Wi-Fi available in Switzerland?
Yes, many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi. Switzerland also has Wi-Fi hotspots in certain areas, including train stations and city centers.
Do I need a Visa to visit Switzerland?
If you are from a Schengen Agreement country, no visa is needed for stays under 90 days. If you're from outside the EU, check the visa requirements specific to your country. https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions
Brussels, Belgium
Do I need to speak French or Dutch to get around?
It’s helpful to know a few basic phrases in French or Dutch, but most locals in Brussels speak English, especially in tourist areas, so you’ll have no trouble getting around.
Should I purchase travel insurance?
Travel Insurance is not required but it is recommended. You can purchase travel insurance here
What is common to eat in Brussels?
Popular local foods include Belgian waffles, moules-frites (mussels with fries), Belgian chocolate, stoofvlees (beef stew), and fries with a variety of sauces.
What language is spoken in Brussels?
The official languages are French and Dutch. French is more commonly spoken in the city, but many locals speak English as well.
Do I need a rental car?
No, a rental car is not necessary. Brussels has an efficient public transportation network, including trams, buses, and metro services. Walking is also a great way to explore the city’s central areas.
Is tipping expected in Brussels?
Service charges are typically included in bills, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
What is the currency in Brussels?
The official currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to carry a small amount of cash.
Can I drink tap water in Brussels?
Yes, tap water in Brussels is safe to drink and of high quality.
What is the dress code in Brussels?
Casual attire is fine for most activities, but smart-casual outfits are recommended for upscale restaurants or cultural venues.
Is Brussels safe for tourists?
Yes, Brussels is generally safe, but be aware of pickpockets in busy tourist areas and on public transportation.
Can I use my credit cards in Brussels?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted. However, smaller establishments may prefer cash or local debit cards, so having some Euros on hand is helpful.
What public transportation options are available in Brussels?
Brussels has a reliable public transportation system with trams, buses, and metro lines operated by STIB/MIVB. Multi-day passes and contactless MOBIB cards are convenient options.
Is Brussels a good destination for families?
Absolutely! Family-friendly attractions include Mini-Europe, the Atomium, and the Brussels Comic Strip Center.
What is the local etiquette when dining out?
It’s polite to greet staff with “bonjour” (French) or “goeiedag” (Dutch) when entering. To request the bill, say “l’addition, s’il vous plaît” in French or “de rekening, alstublieft” in Dutch.
Is Wi-Fi available in Brussels?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, restaurants, and public spaces. The city also offers free Wi-Fi hotspots in certain areas.
Do I need a Visa to visit Brusseks?
If you’re from a Schengen Agreement country, no visa is needed for stays under 90 days. For others, check your country’s visa requirements here
