Don’t want to be tourist trapped and pay too much? We have been handing out plenty city guides and travel tips but thought we might let you in on some simple tips on how to prepare for a city trip.
1. DO YOUR HOMEWORK
While we totally support the whole go-with-the-flow vibe when backpacking, we recommend the opposite when you’re going on a short 3-4 day city trip. Plan ahead, know what you want to see and what you do not want to miss. Off course, be open to spontaneous stuff but be well informed before you go. Ask friends for tips, do research (instagram is great for that). Make reservations at the restaurant you’ve heard great stories of. Book the theatre and museum tickets ahead and online so you don’t have to queue.
2. DECIDE ON YOUR PLACE TO STAY
Hostels are affordable, great for meeting people and getting the latest hot spots and event tips from likeminded others. Like most cool hostels, the Amstel House Hostel Berlin staff will be more than happy to help you with some personalised tips and tricks for exploring Berlin.
3. PLAN
When the homework is done, create one of those nerdy but super handy Google Maps list with all the hot spots you want to visit. It’ll be like your own personal travel guide! The map helps you create an overview of the city and how to explore the city most efficiently and it helps you cut and budget your transportation cost. Can you rent a bike? Is public transportation your best bet to cover your itinerary?
4. TRAVEL LIGHT
You often use less than half of what is in your suitcase, so only pack the essentials and travel light. Travel with only hand luggage and you will save cost and scarce time on most budget airlines. You also avoid the risk of your luggage gone missing on the flight and you having to wait for one crucial day of your short holiday.
5. MONEY MATTERS
In most cities, the number of pickpockets are on the rise so go easy on the cash. You can pay with the larger amounts with a bank card or credit card almost everywhere so there’s really no need to carry around a lot of cash. Paypal and Apple Pay are becoming more popular means of payment as well. Check before you go what means of payment will suffice. O and check if your bank card is unlocked for foreign ATMs. You wouldn’t be the first to discover that AFTER your arrive…
Happy travels and hope to greet you in the coolest hostel in Berlin some day soon!
Xoxo Amstel Staff