Shopping
Whether it's making a once-in-a-lifetime purchase at a famous store or hunting for bargains at an open-air market, shopping in Europe is not only fun but often provides insights into a city's history and culture.
You'll be a savvier shopper abroad if you research the various specialties offered in the countries you will visit.
Stores in some Mediterranean countries close for two hours or more during midday or close in the afternoon some days of the week.
VAT Refunds
Most European countries levy value-added taxes (VAT), a form of sales tax that can run up to 25 percent of the total price. It is included in the purchase price of an item, not added on at the cash register, and so is virtually undetectable.
In most countries, foreign visitors may be able to receive a refund of the tax. Always ask at the store, which can also tell you what the country's minimum-purchase requirements are for a refund.
Usually, you fill out a form at the store, showing your passport. Upon leaving the country, you submit all forms to customs for approval. (They may ask to see the goods, so have them handy.) In some instances, you can get the refund before departure; otherwise, it will come by mail.
If you are visiting two or more countries within the European Union, you submit forms only on departure from the last EU country.
VAT rates and refund procedures vary from country to country. For individuals, VAT refunds generally are available on goods only, not services.
Look It Up
When you've decided which country or countries you wish to visit, contact the national tourist office(s) for free up-to-the-minute news, maps and information. Go to a library or bookstore for regional and special-interest guides as well as videos. The more you know, the easier it will be to make up your own "must see,do" list.
Passports
Passports are required of U.S. citizens visiting Europe.
First-time applicants 13 and over must fill out an application form (see below) and appear in person at a U.S. Passport Agency office, or at a designated courthouse or post office. Bring your birth certificate or proof of citizenship, a photo identification and two recent identical "head shot" photos, 2" x 2". Children ages 13 to 17 must appear with a parent. If you are applying for a child under 13, the child need not appear.
Most Passport Agency offices now serve only those departing within two weeks and require that you make an appointment in advance. Others will be directed to U.S. Post Offices and local courthouses that take passport applications.
Passport, visa and U.S. travel-advisory information is available from the State Department's Consular Affairs site at
http://travel.state.gov. You can download passport application and renewal forms, and locate the nearest Passport Agency, or designated post office or courthouse.
You can also call the State Department's new automated National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778.
Visas
Visas are not required for American tourists on short-term visits by most member countries of the European Travel Commission covered on this site. For an up-to-date listing of visa requirements and detailed explanations pertaining to visas, please refer to the Foreign Entry Requirements website.
http://travel.state.gov/foreignentryreqs.html Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for overseas travel. A comprehensive travel insurance plan should include coverage for Trip Cancellation & Interruption, Medical Expenses and Emergency Medical Transportation, Loss and Damage to Baggage, and a toll-free, 24-hour travel assistance hotline. Travelers should read any policy carefully, know what is covered, and consider the following tips:
— Medicare does not extend beyond the borders of the United States — travelers on Medicare and other restrictive managed-care health plans can protect themselves with comprehensive third-party travel insurance.
— Weigh carefully any travel protection offered directly by a tour operator or travel supplier — a comprehensive third-party travel insurance plan will cover the traveler's travel investment in the event of a travel carrier's financial demise.
— Extensive weather and security delays can impact travel itineraries and baggage — travelers should look for coverage of Delayed Baggage and Travel Delays when considering any travel insurance plan.
For more information on travel insurance, and for a free travel advisory featuring travel, safety, health and weather information on a particular European destination, travelers can visit the site of Travel Guard International, America's largest travel insurance provider.
Travel Agents
Once you've decided where you want to go and how much you want to spend, consult with a knowledgeable travel agent. Computer systems and industry contacts give agents immediate access to a wide range of Europe's offerings, so they can quickly track down good deals and book your entire trip.