We were first-timers on our trip to London/Paris/Madrid/Tirana, Albania. Each city had something unique to offer and we loved each one for different reasons. Our trip went so smoothly. I am a planner by nature and my husband is not. I was afraid we’d have issues, but there weren’t any; he was just as much into it as I was and we had a great trip. He was even asking me what I had on our agenda for the day, which totally surprised me. He was one that wouldn’t even discuss our trip before we went. He figured he’d look things over on the plane rides, which he did.
Throughout our trip, we were able to see and do 95% of the things that were important to us, so that made me feel great. I’d made ‘destination packets’ for each city and they were great. I’d written down a suggested itinerary of must-sees for each day, but of course it was flexible. Our packets included torn out parts of guidebooks, maps/directions and info printed from the internet, as well as essential phrases for the language of that city. I packed them in ziplock baggies to keep them dry and then discarded them as we left for a different city. I carried them around in my day bag and referred to them often.
I can’t recommend enough having the appropriate travel clothing. Since we traveled in the ‘shoulder season,’ the temp varied from 45-60 degrees F and rain was inevitable. We had bought 2 pair of travelex pants from Eddie Bauer (we shopped there frequently for many of our travel supplies) and they were great - waterproof (a must if rain is expected), lightweight and wrinkle free. Also wool socks and waterproof shoes worked great. We layered as recommended on this website and had waterproof jackets. We stayed snug, warm and dry! Thanks so much for all your recommendations. This website and your knowledge and input made our trip a success!