Sept. 25 – London, England (day 2)

In the middle of the night last night, our new dorm-mates came in, turned on the lights and talked quite loudly. I guess they didn’t realize that we were in there. It takes a lot to wake me up, and because of the time change, I had a hard time falling asleep again. I woke up super tired, but I know this will eventually pass. On to day two of London!

By the Globe Theater and Thames River

Today we went to the rebuilt Globe Theatre where we learned about the history of it and how Shakespeare’s plays were performed. It was interesting to see how “all the world’s a stage” was reflected in the architecture.

Rebuilt Globe Theater

Man Shakespeare wrote a lot of plays...

"All the World's a stage."

After having a tour of the Globe, we started walking towards the bus stop so we could catch a tour of London. On the way we go sidetracked with a market with delicious food (we tried some “Proper” fish ‘n chips), and some sightseeing. I love getting lost in London. We then caught the tour bus and road to the boat terminal where we cruised up the Thames. I saw the Tower bridge for the first time – and it’s spectacular! When we finished the river cruise, we wandered around and also saw the Parliament building, Westminster Abby and St. Paul’s Cathedral. It got a bit chilly out, so at one point we stopped for hot chocolate at Starbucks (a little taste of home while abroad), then we headed back to Leicester Square to see if we could get some more theatre tickets for tonight.

"Proper" Fish 'n Chips from the market

Tower bridge

London Eye-sore

Big Ben

Parliament building

Found a human sun dial

St. Paul's Cathedral column...

After getting our tickets, we wandered over to Buckingham Palace for some pictures. Because it was later in the day we went, there was barely anyone there, so we had some fun taking fun pictures and exploring. We then did a bit of walking through Hyde Park, then headed over to the theater to see the show.

Buckingham Palace

Meeting the Queen - queen Rachel

We were very respectful on the property. Ok, maybe we weren't.

Mocking statues is what we do best.

Rachel loves ducks. She's an old man in parks.

Couldn't help myself.

Luckily we were able to tickets to see “Wicked” – and it was amazing – except the funny thing was, I had no trouble staying was awake all day, but once I sat down in the theater and the lights dimmed, I had the hardest time staying awake and ended up falling asleep and missing half of it! I was so disappointed! But the parts I did see was amazing, the singing was phenomenal and I’d definitely want to see it again (note: I am seeing it in Vancouver this summer).

London Theatre show #2- Wicked!

 

Tomorrow’s our last day in London, then on to Paris!

Sept. 24 – London, England

We just landed in London Gatwick and it’s so green and beautiful. It reminds me of how much I love England and London. Maybe it’s because my ancestors are from England so it’s in my blood, but there’s just something warm and welcoming about England. As if I’ve come home to a familiar place.

—-

What a fun first day we’ve had – we have survived our first day backpacking! It’s definitely different than staying in hotels, but I guess that’s the experience of it all!

After our plane landed we rode the train from Gatwick to London where we rode the Tube to our hostel by Hyde Park. It took us a little while and some wandering to find it as the directions we had were a little confusing and there was construction blocking street names. But getting lost is all a part of the adventure. We were exhausted, though, after carrying our bags – mine is approximately 22 lbs – and fighting jet lag.

Riding the train from Gatwick to London

We planned to get some sleep immediately after we checked in and got to our room. However, when we walked up to our room, since we were early for check-in, the room was still dirty from its previous occupants. The smell grossed me out. I think because I was so tired, everything seemed worse than it actually was. Our dorm has two bunk beds, with three beds stacked up vertically per bunk. Rachel and I had already claimed our beds when another occupant came in. We had booked an all-girls dorm room, so we were surprised to see that it was a boy who joined us. Luckily each of the beds had curtains for privacy, so wasn’t too much of a problem. He was a nice guy, was from Egypt getting training for his work. He ended up being a great roommate as he was always in bed before we got home and let us use the bathroom before he did in the mornings. Quite the gentleman.

Our first experience staying in a hostel.

So finally, after we got settled in we slept for a couple of hours (although I totally could have slept all day) then went to Leicester Square to see if we could get some tickets to one of the London Theatre shows. We had hoped to see Les Mis, but they only had premium seats left at 120 pounds per ticket, so we opted to see Billy Elliot instead.

After buying our tickets we wandered around and did some window shopping. It was tempting to buy so many things, but the realization that I’d have to carry it around with me all over Europe deterred me from buying anything. After shopping we went to the show. It was quite entertaining. I wouldn’t say it is my most favorite musical, but the boy who played the little boy Billy, was an absolutely amazing dancer – especially in ballet – singer, and actor!

Our first show in London - Billy Elliot

Inside the theatre watching Billy Elliot

First day in London – awesome! And this is just the beginning…

Sept. 23, 2010 – Flight to London, England (part 2)

About a half hour into the flight I looked out the window and thought to myself, “That looks like Kamloops.” On closer reflection I saw that it actually was Kamloops, the town were I grew up and where my brother, his wife and my parents currently live. Nice to have that friendly reminder and see a familiar place out the window. The sky is that beautiful blue that goes on forever, with a blanket of clouds padding the space below us. I love flying, there is such an exhilaration about it. I love taking off and that feeling when your stomach drops for that one second. It’s amazing that you can travel across the world in a matter of hours and drop into a completely different culture. Europe is so exciting because of all its history, scenery, architecture, food and wonders. It’s going to be exciting learning about all these cultures and eating all the delectable food. I downloaded the book, “North and South” onto my iPhone and am quite enjoying it so far.

I’m excited to try Italian pasta and gelato – people rave about it. it’ll be a good thing I’m doing a lot of walking and carrying my backpack, it’ll burn off all the food I eat.

One thing that is funny about sitting in the very last row on the plane is the line up of passengers waiting to use the washroom – all doing that “I-have-to-pee-really-bad” dance. I wish I could take a pictures of it, but it might creep them out. One strange lady is doing stretching right beside Rachel and so poor Rachel has to lean towards me to get away from the protruding body parts meandering into our row. Weird.

——

It’s starting to get dark outside my window, the pink haze rising above the clouds. I keep looking to see if we’re flying over the ocean, but after looking at my watch, we’ve only been flying for three hours, six more to go. Hopefully I’ll sleep some tonight so that jet lag won’t be as bad. I went to bed late last night hoping that would help me sleep better on the plane. I’m staring to feel sleepy, so I’m guessing I will. Funny what you write about when you have a lot of time on your hands and nothing but vacation days looming up before you. I haven’t been on a long vacation like this since I was eleven, when my family and I drove down to Disneyland. It’s exciting!

When I first decided to go on this trip, I knew it was the perfect time because everything fell into place: finances were there, had a friend to go with, and had enough time to take off of work. Originally we had planned to go for 2.5 weeks, but my boss suggested that I take another week off, so who can fight against that? So I extended my vacation and I’m sure it won’t feel long enough, but I’m excited for the time I will have there. London and Paris are so great in their own ways, and I’m excited to experience Zurich, Munich, Austria, Venice, Florence, Rome and Cinque Terre for the first time. I wish I could spend months in Europe, just gallivanting around, visiting museums, soaking in the culture and enjoying what it has to offer. But I’ll get to do a bit of it on this trip. Maybe one of the nights in Paris we’ll eat dinner at 8pm and dine the night away. In North America we rush through our meals, not savoring each bite – I’d love to do that, just sit and enjoy a meal. Soak in the cafe and the people, etc.

——

(a few hours later…)

When we flew over Iceland it was stunning! There was a full moon and when you looked at the water, the moon was perfectly reflected in it. When we flew over the coastal line of Iceland, the full moon, ocean and dark coastal lines were beautiful. The stillness of the waters was peaceful and the whole view was just mesmerizing. It was if it was straight out of a movie. A gorgeous, scenic movie scene.

——

(yet another few hours later…)

We’re just about to land – let the adventures (and maybe some misadventures) begin! We didn’t sleep much on the flight, and seeing that it’s 11pm our time, we might be in for a nap when we hit our hostel. Apparently our hostel is right across the street from the LDS church building, so it’ll be fun to attend that on Sunday. I forgot to bring a skirt, so some London shopping is probably in order. I’m excited to see all the fashions as they’re ahead of us by a few years. Last time I came to England, the fashion didn’t make any sense to me – so I’m hoping it’s better this time. But I will say, though, my understanding of fashion has improved since I last went, so I think it’ll be more like being a kid in a candy store – want to get everything in sight! It’s good that I only brought a backpack to store my belongings, it will help in curbing any unnecessary purchasing. I’d love to get some artwork from Paris or Italy, will have to see. They’d look nice hung in my little place.

Now it’s time to do some bashing around London!

Yay, we’ve just landed in London!

Sept. 23, 2010 – Flight to London, England

Today my friend Rachel and I are heading off to gallivant across Europe! We’re currently on the plane, flying to London, England (Gatwick). I’m pretty excited, the last time I was there was 5 years ago, when I went traveling with my mom and grandma throughout the UK. This time we’re just staying a few days in London where we plan to do some sightseeing and shopping. Our hostel is booked, we’re staying at the Smart Hyde Park View Hostel, which promises a basic stay – which I’m alright with since it’s cheap but clean. It’s also in a pretty good location (well, it seems like it, we’ll have to found our for sure when we arrive).

When we went to check-in at the airport earlier, we heard that the flight was overbooked (we were flying Thomas Cook) and they were offering Air Canada flights plus $400 credits if we gave up our seats and went on Air Canada. We don’t have anything urgent and didn’t mind waiting the 3 hours to get on a better flight and get the $400 credit. We were hoping everyone who purchased tickets would come so we could do that – especially since Air Canada seems like a better airline. Unfortunately, ten people didn’t come, so we ended up going on the flight we originally booked with Thomas Cook. But now, after sitting here on the plane, the leather seats are comfortable, we each have personal tvs, blankets, water and a pillow – how… “exciting”, haha.

One thing happened when I was going through security: I had forgotten to remove the lock I had purchased for securing my bag on trains (especially in Italy, or so I read) from my carry-on bag, and since it had a hand-cuff looking thing on one end of it, the had to confiscate it. They gave me an option to store it for $12 for the first day, then $2 after that, or mail it to myself for $12. I decided it wasn’t worth it, but I kicked myself for not putting it in my checked baggage. Oh well, it’s just a lock, I can purchase one in Europe if I really need to.

So many exciting things planned for this trip: London, Paris, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and then my dream…. Italy! Ever since my last trip to the UK I’ve wanted to see the Roman ruins – I can’t believe it’s happening this soon!

It’s my first backpacking trip, so it’ll be interesting to experience staying in hostels, riding the rail and planning my own itinerary. Rachel’s a good traveling companion, up for doing anything and it seems like we both have similar traveling styles.

Here’s to Europe! Will be in London in 9 hours!

See you in three weeks Canada.

The REAL Backpacking Across Europe Packing List

Before I left for Europe on my first backpacking trip, I had written the previous post of what I was suggested to bring on my trip. After going on my trip, I’d like to revise the list to the following list below.

As I know each person who goes backpacking comes from different points of view, I want to give a bit of a background on the type of backpacker I was so you can decide whether the list I give below will reflect what you would need as well.

• I was not interested in sharing dorm rooms in hostels.
• I only stayed in hostels nice enough that I wouldn’t need a slipsheet for my bed.
• I was only gone for 25 days.
• I was okay spending a bit more money to stay in private rooms versus dorm rooms.
• I usually need to shower everyday. Sometimes I didn’t and that was okay with me.

I would like to echo the advice given before I went, with a special emphasis on the first item:

1. Travel LIGHT. You will have to carry everything around with you. Keep it simple and light!
2. Travel small.
3. Make copies of important travel documents.
4. Anything you forget, you can always buy it there.
5. Pack everything you think you need, then remove half of it.
   “When writing out your own packing list remember the traveling light motto:  Gather together everything you think you’ll need and get rid of half of it.  Do not bring things just because they might come in handy.” Amen.

Suggested packing list (for traveling in September/October)

• 1 Carry-on Duffel Bag/Backpack
  Although good support is important in a backpack, make sure it doesn’t add excessive amount of weight to your bag. Mine was a little heavy and when you’re walking long distances, or running to catch a train, it can easily bog you down and you’d be willing to dump it on the street if you could.
• Day Pack
  I brought one and it was perfect for our water bottles, souvenirs, cameras, maps, phone, train tickets, etc. I especially liked having a day pack with a hidden wallet section for valuables. The one I had came with my big backpack so it was easy for me to attach it when needed.
• Smart Phone
  This was a life savor. I downloaded music, tv shows (thanks to iTunes I was able to catch up on the ones I was missing while on the trip), audio guides, city maps, train maps, games, travel books, language translators, recreational novels, and apps that allowed me to book hostels in other towns (i.e. Hostel Hero). I could also keep in touch with friends in any Wifi spot through email, texting or facebook. It also acts as a great alarm clock. This also saved a lot of weight and space in my bag!
• 3-4 Long-sleeved/Short-sleeved T-shirts (can buy more in Europe if needed)
  I brought too many shirts, I’d suggest 2 short-sleeved shirts and 2 long sleeved shirts in dark colors. And also, being in Europe, you buy more there anyhow.
• Pajama Shirt/Pants
  I brought yoga pants so I could wear them both as pj’s and on the train. It was brilliant.
  
• 6 Pairs of underwear
  You can probably survive on 5 pairs if you’re worried about space. but in the end 6 pairs worked just fine as well.
  
• 8 Pairs of Socks
  Like underwear, 5-6 pairs is fine.
  
• 1 Jacket/Windbreaker/Rain Coat
  For cooler weather travelers:  layering clothes is more effective than hauling around bulky sweaters or coats. I brought a short black lightweight rain/wind jacket that was perfect in the cold, wind and rain, yet small enough to roll up and put in my bag when it was hot in Italy.
• 1-2 Pair(s) of Jeans
  You only need one. I had brought two. One too many.
  
• 1 Sweatshirt
  I didn’t really use my sweatshirt, just having my long sleeved shirts and jacket was fine, but I guess it depends on what type of dresser you are.
  
• 1-2 Button Down Shirt(s)
  I brought 1 and it was amazing! I wore it all the time.
  
• Small liquid laundry detergent packs
  Handy for those days where you need a quick wash of your clothes. I really recommend these. I bought them in the travel section in the cosmetics section of Walmart. You won’t regret it because sometimes you might be one day off from being able to find laundry and being able to do a quick wash in your hostel room is worth it.
• 1 Small Bottle of Shampoo/Conditioner (each)
  Hostels don’t give you shampoo. This is a must.
  
• 1 disposable Razor Blade
  I bought mine in Europe. Since I was gone for 25 days, I definitely needed a few shaves along the way, also just to keep my sanity.
  
• 1 Soap & Soap Container
  Again, not all hostels give you soap. I can’t shower without soap, so I’m glad I brought some with me.
  
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
  Bring travel sizes, they’ll take up less room.
  
• Miscellaneous toiletries
  Hand wipes (for those icky moments in public, on the trains, eating food, etc.), Q-tips, Kleenex, floss, deodorant, face/hand cream, lip balm, etc.
• Toiletry Organization Bag
  I’m glad I brought one because I could just grab it and jump into the bathroom without having to grab a bunch of stuff from different places in my bag. It also helped keep the lotions from spilling on my clothes. I bought a light weight one so it didn’t add too much weight to my bag.
  
• 1 Brush/Comb
  Again, bring a travel size. Less space used and lighter.
  
• 1 Travel Towel (thin cotton/quick drying)
  This one I could have survived without because we only needed it when we stayed in dorm rooms in hostels. Because we stayed in mostly private rooms, they provided towels for us, otherwise I could have rented some from the hostel and saved having to cart it around with me and it would have saved me space in my bag. Note taken.
  
• Contacts, Contact Solution/Eye Glasses
  Always good to have a backup.
• Make-up (as needed)
• 1 Money Belt
  You can carry all your important documents in your wallet or you can buy a money belt, which is allegedly safer. There are a couple of types of money belts: one is like a belt that you put under your shirt, the other is a pouch that hangs around your neck. You can decide what you feel more comfortable with.
• 1 Health/Travel insurance card
• First Aid kit
  (pain medicine, anti-nausea medicine, anti-diarrhea medicine, Band-Aides, Vitamins, Antacid and anything else you think you’ll need)
• 1 Driver License
• 1 Passport
• 1 ATM Card
• 2 Credit Card(s)
  (Visa, MC, and remember your cash advance PINs just in case something goes wrong with your ATM card, also bring your card theft notification phone numbers.)
• 1 Padlock & 1 Luggage Lock
  I ended up ditching both my locks because I stayed in private rooms. But even nowadays, most dorm rooms have locks on each locker too, so if you do need one just buy one there. They are too heavy to carry around with you.
• 1 Photocopy of passport
• Camera (with extra batteries and SD card)
  You will see very few backpackers with a video camera. And I doubt you want to carry both on your shoulders.
• 1 Pen and Notebook (for writing down thoughts)
• 1 Pair of good walking/hiking shoes (sneakers/walking shoes/boots)
  I’d like to emphasize the word GOOD. You won’t regret it.
• 1 Pair of Flip Flops
  Trust me, you won’t want to not bring flip flops. They’re perfect for hostels, jumping in the shower, and relaxing your feet after a long day of walking.
• 1 Pair Earplugs
  People snore. People talk. People party. If you feel like falling asleep during the thunderstorm, take ear plugs.
• 1 Eye mask
  Nothing like having an eye mask to help you get over jet lag or early morning trains.
  
• Small Flashlight/Headlamp
  You will find this handy for use when staying in the dorm rooms at Hostels as you might want to read a book or look for something when the lights are out.
• Foreign Currency
  Get enough cash from your bank for when you first arrive at your destination country. After that you can get your money from ATM machines there.
• Voltage Converter and adapters.
  Make sure you get adapters with the currency converter. Otherwise your devices will break.
  

Optional Items

• Swimsuit (if weather/location permits)
• Inflatable neck pillow
  I only used mine once, but I’m glad I had it as I had a much needed sleep with it.
• Sunglasses
  Or you can buy some there… mine broke on the trip over there and I never bought any new ones, although I had plenty of opportunities to. It was mostly cloudy on the trip, except for Italy, where it was bright and hot and sunny everyday.
• Hat/Sweat/Headband
  Most likely you will not need them in the summer—depends on where you are going. Hats or sweat/headbands are good for the Fall in case of rain or a bad hair day.

Backpacking Across Europe Packing List

One of the challenges for backpacking is knowing what I should bring as I don’t want to bring too much or too little. In doing some research, I’ve come to realize that if I do forget anything, I can just buy it there, it’s not like I’m going to the middle of nowhere.  Using these other packing lists as models, I’ve come up with the following guidelines and packing list:

1. Travel light.
2. Travel small.
3. Make copies of important travel documents.
4. Anything you forget, you can always buy it there.
5. Pack everything you think you need, then remove half of it.
   “When writing out your own packing list remember the traveling light motto:  Gather together everything you think you’ll need and get rid of half of it.  Do not bring things just because they might come in handy.”

Tentative packing list (for September/October)

This seems like a lot, but I’m sure I’ll be taking some of the stuff out or sharing with my travel buddy.

• 1 Carry-on Duffel Bag/Backpack
  If you feel like there is not enough space, you are over packing. Whether you are going for a couple of months or a couple of weeks, I believe this size backpack will be fine. If your trip is only a week or two weeks a 2600 cu. in. backpack may be enough.
• Day Pack
  Some backpacks come with a day pack attached. In any case, whatever you choose, day pack comes very handy. Take it!
• 3-4 Long-sleeved/Short-sleeved T-shirts (can buy more in Europe if needed)
  Choose dark (black, dark blue, purple, green, dark red) or neutral (all browns and shades of gray) colored clothing, so any dirt or stains acquired along the way won’t be too apparent. Try to stick to two or three colors, so that all your clothes mix and match.
• Pajama Shirt/Pants
• 6 Pairs of underwear
• 8 Pairs of Socks
• 1 Jacket/Windbreaker/Rain Coat
  For cooler weather travelers:  layering clothes is more effective than hauling around bulky sweaters or coats.
• 1-2 Pair(s) of Jeans
• 1 Pair of Pants (khakis, etc)
• 1 Sweatshirt
• 1-2 Button Down Shirt(s)
• 1 Bottle of Febreeze/odor absorber
  Put an odor absorber, scented drawer sachet or dryer sheets inside of your luggage to keep your clothes smelling fresh.
• Small liquid laundry detergent packs
  Handy for those days where you need a quick wash of your clothes.
• Small Clothesline
  For hanging your clothes to dry after washing them.
• 1 Small Bottle of Shampoo/Conditioner (each)
• 1 disposable Razor Blade (if doing carryon, might need to purchase in Europe)
• 1 Soap & Soap Container
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Miscellaneous toiletries
  Hand wipes, Q-tips, Kleenex, floss, deodorant, face/hand cream, lip balm, fingernail clippers, tweezers, etc.
• Toiletry Organization Bag
• 1 Brush/Comb
• 1 Travel Towel (thin cotton/quick drying)
• Contacts, Contact Solution/Eye Glasses
  Always good to have a backup.
• Make-up (as needed)
• 1 Money Belt
  You can carry all your important documents in your wallet or you can buy a money belt, which is allegedly safer. There are a couple of types of money belts: one is like a belt that you put under your shirt, the other is a pouch that hangs around your neck. You can decide what you feel more comfortable with.
• 1 Health/Travel insurance card
• Medical information (in case of emergency that hopefully will never happen)
• First Aid kit
  (pain and cold medicine, anti-nausea medicine, anti-diarrhea medicine, Band-Aides, Vitamins, Antacid and anything else you think you’ll need)
• 1 Driver License
• 1 Passport
• 1 ATM Card
• 2 Credit Card(s)
  (Visa, MC, and remember your cash advance PINs just in case something goes wrong with your ATM card, also bring your card theft notification phone numbers.)
• Guidebook
  Something like Lonely Planet, Frommers, Let’s Go, Rough Guides, Rick Steve’s, etc.
• English-Foreign language dictionary
  Your guidebook should have all words you need to know (optional).
• Book to read
  One light (paperback) book to read in your spare time is not a bad idea.
• 1 Padlock & 1 Luggage Lock
  If you plan to travel on train, I recommend a ski lock or something with a coil that can wrap around your bag and hook to a pole in your compartment. If someone really wants to steal something from your bag it’s not going to help, but it’s a deterrent against “curious” strangers.
  Also take a “Master” lock for regular lockers to store your stuff while staying in hostels.
• 1 Large Envelope (for copies of travel documents)
• 1 Photocopy of passport
• 1 Photo Camera (with extra batteries and SD card)
  You will see very few backpackers with a video camera. And I doubt you want to carry both on your shoulders.
• 1 Pen and Notebook (for writing down thoughts)
• 2 Pairs of Shoes (sneakers/walking shoes/boots)
  This is a very subjective area. Take whatever is more comfortable for you. Whatever you decide, don’t pack more than two pairs.
• 1 Pair Earplugs
  People snore. People talk. People party. If you feel like falling asleep during the thunderstorm, take ear plugs.
• 1 Eye mask
  
• Small Flashlight/Headlamp
  You will find this handy for use when staying in the dorm rooms at Hostels as you might want to read a book or look for something when the lights are out.
• Small Alarm Clock
  Or better yet, get a watch with an alarm.
• iPod/MP3 Player
  Download Rick Steve’s tour guides instead of paying money to rent the voice tour machines they have at the museums, attractions, etc. Also handy to listen to some music on the train rides, etc.
• Foreign Currency
  Get enough cash from your bank for when you first arrive at your destination country. After that you can get your money from ATM machines there.
• Voltage Converter with plugs
  

Optional Items

• Swimsuit (if weather/location permits)
• Sleeping sheet
  You get it for free in many hostels or you rent it for a small fee.
• Shower shoes
• Inflatable neck pillow
• Duct tape
  You never know when some duct tape will come in handy. Temporarily fix your backpack, shoes, clothes,  or anything else that unexpectedly breaks. Hey, you can even use it to remove lint off of your clothes, cover a blister, or hang up your laundry line.
• Sunglasses
• Hat
  Most likely you will not need them in the summer—depends on where you are going. Hats are good for the Fall in case of rain or a bad hair day.

Reference websites:

• The packing list for Backpackers in Europe
• Europtrip packing list
• Packing checklist – backpack Europe on a budget

Rail Passes, check. Backpack, check.

One of the fun new things I’m going to do on this trip is commute amongst cities and countries via train. In the past I’ve traveled via car, plane or bus, so it will be a fun adventure to learn the tricks of traveling by train. Of course it has been around for years in Europe, so I’ll be a novice but hopefully I’ll pick it up relatively easily. My guess is that if I can master flying, traveling by train will be manageable.

In looking at different rail passes and websites, I found that Rail Europe had the easiest website to use and provided me the cost of the rail passes in Canadian dollars, which helped with the fluctuating exchange rates, etc. And best of all – no tax! Living in a Province with 12% tax, this is a major perk! We ended up getting the Euro Select Pass for 5 countries and 10 days of travel. And luckily for us, we were also able to buy a train ride from London to Paris for only $55. Considering it’s regularly priced at $100-$130, this was a great deal! Good thing we bought it when it was on sale, as I just checked it again and it’s now back to regular price! Whew.

Now, let’s talk about the BACKPACK. I’m pretty excited. I first went to Wanderlust, a travel store located on 4th in Vancouver and was sorely disappointed in the lack of options and higher prices. Luckily we whipped over to MEC down the road and got there before it closed. I immediately went to the backpack section and found the ones designated to traveling. I loved the first one I tried on, but it seemed a bit large, but luckily they had a smaller version of the pack and after comparing prices and what I needed I went with the MEC Sojourn Travel Pack. My favorite feature is the ability to carry it like a backpack, duffel bag or suitcase. It’s nice to be able to tuck in the straps when flying, and have it small enough to use as a carryon. It also has a daypack which will be nice on the days where we are out and about. We also purchased headlamps and money belts. I still have a lot of things left to buy… good thing I still have eight days!

MEC Sojourn Travel Pack