Topic: Tips for Backpacking in Europe

[Zaider]

Hey Guys,

So im leaving in a little over two weeks to go backpacking around Europe for a couple months with my girlfriend. I've traveled a lot but never done the hostel/backpacking thing. Im looking for general advice on what to do, what not to do, how to avoid being robbed on a train by a curious looking thief named Alfonso, etc.

My itinerary is as follows:
Land in Paris and stay a few days
Train to Barcelona
Train to Madrid
Train to Porto, Portugal via Lisbon
Go to Lisbon, Sintra
Go to South Portugal (TBD exactly where)
Bus to Seville, Spain
Make our way to Ronda, Spain, then to Granada
Head somewhere in Spain (wherever is closest) so we can catch a train to Florence, Italy
See Tower of Pisa and take cheesy picture of me trying to push it back up
Go to Sienna, Italy
Go to Rome
Go to Venice (only for a night... its expensive!)
Go to Nice
Go to Lyon
End up in Paris

So basically im looking for advice about trains...hostels... things to bring...  travelling in general.. whatever you got.

Thanks!

[pistachoo]

http://lifehacker.com/software/how-to/travel-the-world-packing-under-10-pounds-278181.php

[STI_AL]

Don't watch the movie "Hostel" before you go...My piece of useless advice.

[Perfect Dark]

DO have fun.

DON'T come back without bringing me something

I have no good advice, I never got the chance to do something like this so I wish you all the best, and see you when you get back Z!

[TWRC]

Have fun and stay away from the people in Paris who are selling bracelets.  LOL

[Jack_Cracker]

DON'T be afraid to work a couple of hours at a hostle to pay for your room/board. You'd be amazed how quickly it can add up, especially if you're planning to spend more than one night.
You might also want to consider getting a membership with Hosteling International.
http://www.hihostels.ca/181/international_hostels___travel_travelling_abroad.hostel

Check with local clubs for suggestions/tips on how to make your trip more comfortable.
And there's always the Library.

Have fun!
~Bryce

[pistachoo]

oh and depending on how old you are, and if you are a student: http://www.istc.org/sisp/index.htm

[Zaider]

oh and depending on how old you are, and if you are a student: http://www.istc.org/sisp/index.htm

i've heard its not that necessary and that my student card (still valid!) will get me through.