Best of Europe 21 Day-Scardy Cat

You'll be fine. Stop stressing. A dream is coming true.
Why be scared?

Being scared is normal. Being excited also is normal. It is something new and different. You will be fine. Plan your trip from the airport to the hotel as best you can from a distance so you know exactly what you need to do when you land. That will ease some of the anxiety. Once you get there you will be fine, the fear disappears and the awe takes over. Have fun.

This is normal (for some people). You will be fine. I've been going to Europe for almost forty years, and I still get really anxious before a trip. Everyone has different things that trigger anxiety. If it is the trip from the airport to the hotel, you can get a certified taxi at the taxi rank and have it take you directly to the hotel. I also suggest you call the RS counselors to see if anyone else from your tour will be arriving around the same time and could join you. In one week, you'll be a pro.
Have a great trip.

First of all, yes, being scared is normal. But, with the information that you should have from RS about how to get to the hotel, you shouldn't have any problems. Enough people will speak English that you can always find someone to help you if needed. And if you are arriving at the tour hotel a day in advance, you have plenty of time to correct any mistakes you might make. Second, the RS tours tend to full of very friendly people who will include you in their plans for dinner/free time touring. Relax and have a great time.

It is normal, and even experienced travelers can suddenly be anxious or second guess themselves right before a trip. I had already been to Europe and Mexico many times, but halfway over the Pacific Ocean heading towards my first destination on a year long round the world trip I suddenly thought "What was I thinking?!". It went away as soon as I landed. You are going on a guided tour that is designed to help first time visitors get acclimated in a very safe, supportive environment. If you are still really anxious about that short span of 1 day before you join the tour, don't try to push yourself to do much. You will likely be tired from jet lag. Get your initial stash of Euros from an ATM. Grab a taxi, get to your hotel and relax for a few hours. Check with the hotel to see if there is a hop-on/hop-off tourist bus you can buy a ticket for that has guided commentary in English. It can help you familiarize yourself with your first city. Have dinner someplace close to the hotel. If you are scared to dine solo in a restaurant, get takeout and eat it on a park bench or do room service at the hotel. Get to sleep early and by the next morning you should find after a bit of sleep and a decent breakfast you'll feel better about exploring a little more until its time to meet the rest of the tour.

Natalie,, its normal to have pre trip jitters, even experienced travellers get that feeling " did I forget something" or " will my plans go as smoothly in reality as I have them laid out",, don't sweat it.. just reassure yourselve that you have done what you need to do. And , it really helps to remember this, all you NEED to make sure arrives with you is your passport and a credit and ATM card,, after that, ANYTHING else forgotten can be purchased! The RS tours are so well run,, you will immediatly feel relief once you meet your guide and other tour goers.. you are going to have a wonderful time,, really,, I almost would bet my first born on that, lol .

Natalie, As the others have said, it's perfectly normal to feel nervous before a trip. I often have a range of emotions ranging from being nervous to wondering if I really want to go. These feelings always dissipate on the flight to Europe, as my thinking begins to change to "holiday mode" and anticipation of the adventure. The Tour department will have provided good instructions on the travel method to get to your first Hotel. On that tour, you'll be arriving at Amsterdam Schipol, and then heading directly for Haarlem. Who will your Guide be? Have you got all details sorted regarding things such as ATM cards, any electronic devices you'll be taking along, etc.? After a few days on the tour, you'll be much more comfortable with travelling around Europe, and at the end of your farewell dinner in Paris, you probably won't want it to end. If you're like many of us here, you'll start planning the next tour as soon as you return home! Happy travels and happy 50th!!!

I can't believe so many experienced travelers have responded to my "fear post" so quickly. Thank you! Keep in mind; I am from Wyoming; the least populated state in the US. If there is a wild animal...moose, antelope, grizzly bear, rattlesnack...I know what to do. But, large metropolis'.....well...I'm at a bit of a disadvantage. My biggest "crowd experience" is a trip to Denver 250 miles away! I fear that I will have "Hick/Tourist" emblazoned on my forehead and will easily be taken advantage of. But, I want to experience as much of the local culture as possible in the short time I am alone. I could take the taxi, but want to try to be brave and follow Rick's suggestion by taking the bus from the Amsterdam airport to Haarlem. I have plotted and planned a million times but worry about having change for the bus when I get there. I am going to follow all the advice on these boards: I get the money belt/stay aware concept loud and clear. (Now I worry I will appear TOO paranoid . LOL). I appreciate the advice on staying safe and remembering that passport and cards are the all important keep safe items. I come from a very blue collar family whom I adore and I am so very humbled that they have given up a whole lot for me to realize my dream. I just want to be so very sure that I do THEM justice by not having any problems along the way. We don't have a whole lot to bail me out with - but they will if need be. They trust me...so I should trust myself. Thanks again: I am still scared but, you have helped me to move out of the "petrified" side to the "excited and can't wait" side of the sliding scale!

Here's another thing to consider: with the tour you're taking, the 21 day Best of Europe, I highly doubt you'll be the only one who has never previously visited Europe. The tour has been designed as a highlights trip of Europe. I would also suggest you stop thinking that if you make a mistake you're letting the people at home down. Many of us are seasoned travelers and you know whatwe still make mistakes. We're human. The key is to be able to either laugh at yourself or brush it off when it happens and just keep going. I'll tell you a funny story. Many years ago I was flying from London to Los Angeles and was sitting next to two, shall I say, massive guys. Their job was to collect rents at council flats in London. (Basically, if someone didn't pay, they were sent to get the money.) They were big and they looked mean. We started talking and they asked if it was safe to walk around Hollywood during the day. They were really scared about that since they heard it could be dangerous. I assured them that at the main tourist sites it would be fine. So, you see, anyone can get a little nervous or scared when entering unchartered territory. Sometimes the unexpected turns out to be the most fun. Relax and plan on having a great time.

As you stated you want to try and do it by following Rick's advice. thats great. As a back-up plan have a good map of your arrival (and departure ) city. have your hotel's name and address on a piece of paper (in the local language if you can)., just in case you get stuck and need to fall back on a taxi. Although English is widely understood (and spoken) in Europe (especially in Holland) you cant always expect taxi drivers to be able to understand you. I always feel more comfortable (and confident) if i can find places on a map. And know where I am- even if its not where i want to be

My 2 pieces of advice: Use Google Earth street view to look at the areas of town where your hotel is located, the bus stop, etc. Then go to YouTube. I can pretty much promise there will be videos of all the areas you will be in. This gives you a good idea of riding buses, trains, walking around, and then it won't all be so strange & foreign. Wear a messenger bag, cross body, as well as your money belt, so you don't have to do the "tourist clutch" with your purse. It lets you appear to be relaxed, as well as keeps your items handy. Go shopping at a neighborhood store your 1st day and buy a cloth shopping bag for 50 cents or a euro. Use this to carry around light items, to help you "blend", plus you have a great souvenir after your trip.

Natalie, Another point to mention is that it's not uncommon to experience a few "bumps in the road" on holidays. As you'll be on a tour, that likely won't be a problem, but something to keep in mind for future trips. Another aspect that I often have problems with is waiting for departure, once all the arrangements have been made. (BTW, we have Rattlesnakes here too, but don't see them too often - Here's a photo. - they're protected by law here as an "endangered species")

Natalie, all good advice. I've traveled to Europe many times. My big fear is leaving something undone at home (I usually take long trips), so before I leave for the airport I have a little checklist to be sure everything is in order (usually involves unplugging the coffee pot). I'd want you with me if I encountered a rattlesnake! When you arrive, ask the hotel staff for a restaurant recommendation. You will be fine, great tip about finding out if anyone else on the tour is arriving early - they might even be on your flight!

Natalie, I think one of the hardest things to get used to, especially here in the Western part of the US where there is no public transport, is that in a huge city people's sense of personal space is a lot smaller than ours is. It's not good or bad, just different. You will be surprised and kind of awed at how many people you will run in to who speak English especially in the airport. Are you staying your first night at the same hotel as the tour? If so, the staff there is doubtless used to 1st timers and will be able to give you suggestions on where to eat and how to get any place you want to see. I hope to be taking that trip in 2013! (PS I'm a total Yellowstone geek...can never get enough of Wyoming, altho I haven't been as far over as Casper since, oh, 1960?? lol)

I think your feelings are absolutely normal for a first-timer. I hope that helps you to let these absolutely normal jitters just wash over you, because I think that first day before the tour will be a piece of cake. As I understand it, the best-of tours begin in Amsterdam. This is an exceptionally easy airport with great connections to Haarlem and Amsterdam. And, everyone speaks English. Have a blast!

Natalie, you're going to have a great time. It is normal to be scared. But take heart, you're going to one of the most English-speaking corners of continental Europe. Amsterdam airport is easy to navigate and the locals are used to hoards of Americans coming to visit. Once you make it to Haarlem, you'll be saying to yourself, "I can do this!"

Your post is so timely --I am leaving for a three week trip and I am suddenly feeling quite anxious. I have been to the Caribbean many many times and travel the US alot even Hawaii but something about going to Europe --not speaking the language, what if I get sick--or need a dentist which has happened to me before...I am planning for it all as other posters say.. to reduce the anxiety but I do think its normal as you are going out of your comfort zone.. It was good to hear that it was not just me:) Have a great trip and the good thing is you are with a tour-and so there are experience people who know the lay of the land so you will be fine
We are doing this all on our own so that is part of my anxiety!

Ditto what everyone else said above, especially what Jo recommended about doing Google Earth street view - I can't tell you how reassuring it is to know what you're looking for when you arrive jet-lagged. I'm heading on my fifth trip to Europe (my fourth alone) and I know that departure day will have some of the same jitters I had on the very first trip. Bon voyage and have a wonderful trip - you're going to love it!

Natalie, after reading both of your posts I'm sooo excited for you! How awesome of your family to give you this trip!!! All good advice from the others. I've done the bus from Amsterdam Airport to Harlem on my first big trip, and I don't remember it being too difficult. The only advice I have to add is - DON'T be afraid to ask for help! Almost all of the locals there will speak english, and will most likely be happy to help you find the right bus etc. Let us know how your trip was when you get back. I'm sure it will be absolutely terrific!

If you ask me a week before any international trip I take "Do you want to go? Are you excited?" I'd say "No..... what was I thinking, it could be a disaster..... nothing will work out, I'll get stuck, robbed, sick, crash etc. etc. I could have just stayed home and relaxed." However, for me, those thoughts go out the window as soon as the trip starts..... literally. When the taxi pulls up, or I put my bags in the trunk..... they are gone. I wondered if that was normal and asked about 25 or so friends who have traveled internationally 5 or more times. Only one person said they were excited the entire time and never got fears or jitters. Some people had them early on.... most of the time the jitters start just prior to the trip. Interestingly (to me) they went away at different times for people. For my one friend it was as soon as he landed in a foreign country, for another, as soon as the airplane was in the air, for another sometime between the airport and landing. I'd like to be a person with no fear..... but I'm not. However, I have learned that, for ME, this anxiety just prior to the trip is normal....and I've always had a great time. It will not keep me from traveling. Enjoy your trip!!

I get nervous every single time I travel, and it's usually centered around how I'm going to get from the airport to my hotel. In fact, I'm doing the GAS tour this year and am nervous about how to get from Frankfurt airport to Trier. But I know that once I'm on the ground, it'll be totally easy. As someone else mentioned, use Google Maps to figure out your walking route from the bus stop in Haarlem to your hotel. Then when you're on the ground, things will look familiar and you'll feel comfortable. One thing you've got going for you is that Schiphol is very well signed and the Dutch in general speak good English. Keep an eye out for the signs and don't be afraid to ask questions. Also, it might help if you go to www.schiphol.nl (click on the British flag in the upper righthand corner) to get an idea of the airport layout and where the buses are. You'll have no problem at all and you are going to have SO MUCH FUN! Your family is amazing for sending you on this trip.

Natalie, I recommend assuming that you will encounter a problem. Think about how you will cope. Then, you will either be prepared, or be pleasantly surprised when the problem doesn't appear. On my first trip back to Europe after a span of 20+ years, I was taking my 9-year-old daughter and trying to navigate several subway changes from the airport to the London suburb where we were staying. I didn't expect any problems because I had step-by-step directions from a native. Unfortunately, the directions didn't cover what to do when a station or route was closed because it was a weekend and they were doing repairs. I was exhausted and couldn't figure out where I went wrong on the directions I had. We sorted it all out eventually, but if I had been a little less certain I had the right instructions, I would have sought help earlier. It was something like my first trip to New York on my own as a teenager. I had directions to fly into Newark and then take a certain bus to Penn Station. Only problem was the bus didn't run on the day I arrived. Getting from Newark to N.Y.C. isn't really a problem, but I had to be willing to abandon the instructions I was given and use a little common sense to get there. I am sure your instructions from Rick Steves will be correct, but be flexible about how you reach your goal and you will be fine. Plan to take the bus, but don't feel bad if you decide you have to back up and take a taxi instead.

Paul's advice is really good. There's no reason to panic: a gazillion Americans who don't speak "the language" go to Europe every day. They make it, so can you. I have family from Wyoming, although most of them are in South Dakota. My grandmother and great-grandmother live in the Sturgis area. Like you they are not at all "big city" people! Yet they have been to Europe 3 times, and on the last trip, visiting me here, my grandmother was able to navigate the local transit system by herself without a problem. It was the first time she'd ever taken public transit of any kind in her life! Things can be confusing and frustrating - expect that. But you will be surprised to find how helpful locals can be, so don't be afraid to ask for help! Try to memorize the phrase "do you speak english?" in the local language, that will go a long way. I was just in Frankfurt the other day and trying to buy tickets for the U-Bahn, and couldn't figure out how to find my destination on the machine. Within 30 seconds a woman walked up to us and asked us if we needed help. This has happened to me while looking at a map in Marsielles, France, looking for a hotel in Munich, Germany - all over really. Europeans are generally polite and helpful, despite rumors to the contrary. You'll be fine!

So you can see you have a whole rooting section cheering you on. Any "bumps in the road" become great stories and, as you can see, everyone makes it back home. Personally, I think Europeans are much better at sensing when people need help and stepping in than we are with people visiting the US. My biggest issue is not getting visually overwhelmed once I'm there (I have this trouble in the US if it's a new place). I've decided that from now on I'm going to through all the photos of an area I'm visiting before I go. There are lots of pics on the RS website as well as Trip Advisor. One of the best things I did when we went on the RS trip starting in Florence was map out the route from the train station to the hotel and know exactly which way to turn when. Lots of people post these details or can help you out if you ask.

Natalie, Lots of good advice here. I would only add that you should expect some things to be different. In fact, hope for things to be different. What's the point in going if it's all the same? Travel is much more fun if you look at everything that's done differently and say "That's interesting" rather than "That's wrong." Soon you're focusing on how much is actually the same instead of what isn't and you feel right at home. And just think....in about a month's time you'll be back on these boards as an experienced traveler answering other newbies' questions!
Have a great trip.

Natalie,, it would be really nice if you do post when you come back,, let us know how it went!

joining all the above to say what you are feeling is normal and understandable.. after all you travel to leave your bubble of comfort whether it is Casper WY or NYC ... you are going on a big, wonderful adventure.. and you will find good people who will help you should you need it.. in my travels I have found Americans are all small town people when they are in other countries... talk to people ..be friendly... expect something to go wrong... that will be a great story in the future.. Happy Birthday... Bon Voyage have the time of your life

Just chiming in with everyone else at this point, but to repeat, you are not alone. I get really nervous before every trip. I am three weeks out from my next trip now and it is like Ray noted above-I am thinking everything will go wrong, what was I thinking, I could have just stayed home. Even though I feel this way before every trip, it goes away as soon as I get there. Never once after a trip so I feel regret for going. As others have said, expect some things to go wrong. Usually when they do, it isn't as bad as you expected. You will be fine! And thanks to everyone for posting and thanks for asking the question. It helps me, too, to see that I am not alone in pre-travel anxiety!!

Just wanted to address some of your subsequent comments about other things you are anxious over: As for being "brave and following Rick's suggestion by taking the bus from the airport". If the thought public transit& finding your way to a hotel is causing you anxiety, don't beat yourself up - just hail a taxi. You'll be learning all about public transit from your guide during orientation. If you are stressing about the right change for the bus, break a few bills at the airport by buying a bottle of water or magazine after you go to the airport ATM. Or change money at your local bank before you even leave - yes, there is a higher fee for the convenience, but the fee isn't astronomical & if it relieves anxiety over having the right currency in your pocket as soon as you land, then it's worth the price. And while you are at the bank, be sure to notify them you are going to Europe, give them the dates & countries so they know not to freeze your account for what they may think are fraudulent ATM withdrawals. Afraid you will look like a "hick/tourist" in the big city? Kind of unavoidable if you are in a group following a guide around major sights. But when you have free time on your own to wander about, you can look a little less tourist-like if you look like you know where you are going (even if you don't). Avoid pulling out a giant map in the middle of the sidewalk. I will often look at a map in the morning at the hotel or during lunch/coffee break to jot down a few notes about nearest metro stops or quick walking directions from one sight to the next. Pickpockets prefer people who look lost or distracted, not people glancing quickly at a Post-It note. Relax about disappointing the family & expect there will be 1 or 2 bumps along the way.

Natalie, what a beautiful birthday gift (and a wonderful family)! I'd strongly suggest doing anything to minimize sources of anxiety. Forget sbout using public transport from the airport if it worries you. That's the one time I ALWAYS take a taxi. When I'm tired and confused, I don't want to be trying to figure out buses/trains, nor do I want to hassle with finding my way from a bus/train stop to my hotel. I want to be dropped off at the hotel's doorway. You might also think about getting some Euro before leaving the US, so you don't have to worry about finding an ATM right away. American Express offices typically sell Euro, and your bank could order them for you (if you have enough lead time). I find that being completely packed a week or so ahead of time also helps me relax, as does a written packing list (so I'm certain of what went into my luggage). And, as has been said before, as long as you have your passport, credit card, prescription meds, and a little cash (and ideally, a printout of your plane ticket), you'll be fine... you've got the essentials. Putting all those things someplace easily identifiable brings me a sense of calm.
Enjoy!

Natalie, Departure time must be getting near! You didn't mention which method was recommended by the tour for travel from Schipol Airport to Haarlem. One of the easiest methods is the #300 Bus, which travels to Haarlem in about 40-minutes. There appears to be two #300 (Zuidtangent) routes, so confirm with the the Driver when you board. You can buy a ticket from the Driver (€5.40?), so you may want to either obtain some Euro's before you leave home, or visit an ATM when you arrive. That's the method I'd use. Cheers!

5 years ago I took my first solo trip, to Greece. I was so nervous, trying to solve every problem before it occured in Greece (needlessly I might add.) It wasn't a Rick Steves tour, so I was allowed to pack every imaginable thing in a huge heavy suitcase, "in case" I needed it, because good heavens I might be somewhere where I couldn't buy what I need, speak to anyone who understood me, etc. Of course I didn't use half what was in that suitcase which was such a drag to lug around, everybody spoke english, and I could buy whatever I wanted. My only crazy scary experience was making a connection in Los Angeles at LAX (i.e. not in Europe!) where I was SO lost and couldn't find anyone who spoke English to direct me. In LA!!! I'm taking the 14 day RS Best of Europe tour solo in mid Sept and am glad Rick won't let me overthink, overpack, and overfret the whole trip. Thanks Rick! Have a great time, and I also anxiously await your tour report!

Natalie, Have a great trip. We took our first trip to the continent in celebration of my 65th birthday. I would have gone a lot sooner with what I know now. BTW. Our first ETBD tour was the 21 Day Europe extravaganza.
What a fabulous trip!!! As for the trip from Schipol Airport to Haarlem, we took the train and had no trouble getting assistance from the non-English speaking train travellers. (I believe we were on the train for 3-4 stops). Relax and enjoy the trip of the lifetime. I'm sure we will hear about it soon ;-)

from Natalie: Tomorrow morning starts my BIG ADVENTURE! I must tell ALL of you how very grateful I am for your support. It has meant so very much to me. All of you have given me valuable advice! Ken was so kind and gave me all the detailed info I worried about to get on that #300 bus as suggested in Rick's arrival info. I went to the bank and got a few Euro so I don't have to worry about getting to an ATM right away. The advice of Google Earth from Jo and others was terrific and totally reduced my concern about the walk to the hotel! I really hope that is the way I get to Haarlem. (BTW Ken - Guide is to be Daniela Wedel.) But, if I should just feel too tired and confused once I arrive in Amsterdam, I'm not going to beat myself up for taking a taxi. Tonight, I'm still nervous but mostly....I'm SO EXCITED I just know I won't sleep a wink! Again, I thank you all for making a huge, huge difference in my week of final preparations. I can promise you a full follow-up report!

We arrived very early in the am and caught the bus to Harlaam and we figured it out. It was early on a Saturday and all the vendors were setting up and they pointed us in the right direction when we got there. Part of the fun for me is figuring it out. If you miss the right bus another will come. Don't be scared its a great adventure.

Natalie, You're about to embark on what will probably be one of the most incredible and memorable experiences of your life! When you get to the farewell dinner in Paris, I'd be surprised if there aren't a few tears shed. I haven't travelled with Daniela but like all of Rick's Guides, I'm sure she will be outstanding! If possible, keep some time open for a trip to Seattle in mid-January for the annual Tour Alum reunion. If you have time during the tour, post a note to let us know how you're enjoying it. Buon Viaggio!

Congrats on your first trip to Europe. You may catch the travel bug, and it's not curable.
I grew up taking 3 week vacations in the family station wagon with my 4 brothers. Something always went wrong, flat tires, trips to ER, running out of gas, getting lost, etc. etc. What I learned was that the "stories" from any vacation, whether good or bad, and providing you look at it as an adventure, are the best memories that you'll remember for years.

Natalie, sorry, but forget Rick's advice. He has done this a dozen times. For peace of mind, take a certified taxi from the airport (I think they have initials on them TSA??) or similar. Personally worrying about trying to find the right bus, have the right money etc. will cause unecessary stress. When you find your feet after a few days, you can 'act like a local'.
I will never forget my first trip overseas. I arrived in London at 4.00pm in the afternoon on my own. Got to the hotel, had a shower and hit the sights. I took the underground from Gloucester Road Station to Piccadilly Circus. I will never forget the feeling of sheer terror as I came up the escalator and found myself right in the middle of Piccadilly Circus. It was the middle of summer on a Saturday night. I took a deep breath. Just wanted to get back to the safety of my hotel. Spotted the ho ho bus down the road, hopped on, and after and hour or so, was completely comfortable and beside myself with excitement.

Natalie : So I already am learning about bumps in the road. After loading and unloading a few times in Denver, they got us a new plane to Chicago. But, I missed the connection to Amsterdam and there is nothing to get me there faster than waiting 24 hours for the same flight Saturday. So, after 12 hours to get 1000 miles I found myself fumbling to the shuttle for the comped room at OHare. So, I have no doubt now I'll take that taxi to Haarlem. I just want to get there. But, it was the advice i got here that kept me from tears at OHare; its the journey! And, all is not lost: I found myself in the middle of an international Japanese Animation conference and had great fun at dinner taking photos of kids dressed as their FAV characters. My son is So jealous! Making lemonade out of the lemons on the road! Natalie

Natalie,, thanks for keeping us d,, can't wait to hear how your tour goes,,, when you finally get to it! Aren't you glad you booked to fly in a day ahead of tour,, so smart .. On our tour a family missed the whole first day because they planned to arrive day of tour start,, and plane was delayed! They were experienced travellers and forgot to take unforeseen and uncontrollable circumstances into consideration,, and you ,, who are just new to travel did better then them,, you may surprise us all.. PS yup, take a taxi,, you've had enough adventure for this leg of the trip, lol

Hi Natalie, Good for you for already "making lemons out of lemonade". The idea to take a taxi should be very stress-relieving! I can't wait to hear more about your grip once you get there. Keep us posted! And, Holly, aren't you the person who posted a while back about being nervous to go on a tour by yourself? Glad to see you decided to do it, just like Natalie! I can't wait to hear about your trip in September! Good luck to you both!