I LOVE you guys. It’s not like asking my son, who feels it necessary to say, “Okay, Boomer…” when I ask for help. I have to answer him, “DUDE…I’m gonna be 63; it doesn’t come naturally!” So, thank you so much for explaining everything clearly, so that I’m less overwhelmed!
Boo on your son! It's only appropriate to say, "Okay, Boomer" to the people who are dismissive of learning something new... especially when they won't look things up to try to find information for themselves. You're here, Googling that $h!t and figuring it out-that's what it's all about! 👏🏼
We are headed to Europe for the first time since we left our duty station in Germany in 1989. It's a whole new world! I find your videos very helpful. I am not annoyed by the music and I don't think you talk to much. :)
I’m not sure if this was mentioned but an agent at my cell carrier told me to always use airplane mode when using WhatsApp because if there is a drop in Wi-Fi, it may move into international calling mode so you don’t loose connection but then you get a bill by surprise later.
Just an add on. Maybe before leaving for trip, add some Uber cash (or other rideshare for that country) to account in case there is some mix up or issue with the credit card. this buys you time to correct the issue after you get to where you need to go. Recent experience of mine.
I have to add to your list. You definitely need your Global Health Insurance company app. I work for GeoBlue/BCBS Global and now, post-pandemic, I couldn't imagine seeking healthcare overseas without assistance. Many providers outside of the USA want to have guarantee of payment so you may have to hand over your credit card before you're seen. We (and others) can help avoid that by working with the providers on a direct basis. Individual trip policies are cheap. Your domestic plan might not be adequate.
Great recommendations. Just saw this, and your other video on cellular international plans. Will definitely take advantage of your travel tips. Traveling in a week, so your channel showed up on my feed in the nick of time. Subscribed ! Thank YOU .
Extremely informative video - I use all these apps too (yes, Grab is that helpful in SE Asia) and would also add Couchsurfing as a way to connect with locals or other travelers.
Google Translate was very useful during our trip to Japan. Use the microphone feature to listen to overhead announcements and have it instantly translated to your language, especially if it may involves your transportation changes in airports or train stations.
I travelled for decades without them just fine. And if I run out of service areas I still have the mental tools to problem solve unlike most any men under 35.
thanks for the vides!! i just saw 3 in a row!! even do I know most of it, I can now send my friends and students to look for other info! I am a new follower!!
When in Europe prior to COVID we used Travel Wi-Fi in Paris and another company in Spain and Gibraltar. We’re going to Amsterdam for 3 days prior to our cruise to Iceland, Ireland and UK and was wondering did we need to go this route again or is there something newer and an alternative way. Thank you
I am currently in Istanbul. I downloaded offline maps and also saved places in lists before the Turkey trip. The lists don't work properly when you dont have data and google maps just gives you the immediate area with no proper navigation function but you can see which way you are facing (It worked better prior to trip in Italy when I switched data off to test but here in Turkey its doesnt work so well)
Thank you so much for all your advice and hard to work. It has really helped. Now I’ve got to show this to my daughter so she can put all these apps on her phone. And put them online to Ha ha. Thanks a lot.
I also use TripIt. It’s free and holds our itinerary. Includes maps and amenities close by. Also the safety risk. It recognises that we’ve organised day trips and automatically adds them. We can also share this with family back home. Thx for all your great tips. Cheers from 🇦🇺
I drive charter buses so whether I’m on my own vacation or someone else’s TripIt is awesome. I can always go back and revisit past trips. I love the fact I can make a hotel/flight/etc reservation or buy tickets to an event and it automatically gets added to “the trip it’s supposed to go to” as soon as the email confirmation comes in.
Nik: For Surfshark, do you recommend also getting the Alert/Antivirus/Search bundle when I purchase the 24 (+2 mos. free)??? I already have Norton on my iPhone, but I’m not sure it will work on my iPhone in Europe???
Great info thanks. How about apps for hotels and apartments etc? Do you have a favorite or make sure to download the apps where you have already booked accommodation?
Great tips, especially about the local ride sharing app. I wish I would've watched this video 3 months ago. We were in Barcelona in June. One time we had difficulty finding a subway station that serviced the line we needed. The ones that did service the line we needed were closed for various reasons & the other nearby stations we could've used would require transfers and we were too tired to figure it out. So we decided to take a cab and then had a hard time getting a cab! Of course that type of stuff always happens when you're so tired the only thing you want to do is just lay down!
The first time I traveled internationally, USA to Germany, was my last (20 yrs ago) because it was such a nightmare that I never wanted to do it again. I'm going one more time but this time I'm getting schooled by people like Nik and Allie and should make it less of a nightmare. Thanks
Um, question. I don't use ride apps Uber, Bolt, at home. I uploaded the apps, but they ask for your phone number. If I won't be using my phone, except for data, how do you communicate with them? Also, do they need your credit card number, or can you just pay when you reach your destination, with your credit card? Thanks.
TFL transport for london have their own app now. handy for status updates as lines often closed for maintenance at weekends. National Rail app isnt great but warns you of issues with trains to/from airports like gatwick/ luton or stansted
@@robertwilliamson922 Doper? Really? Do you drink alcohol, at all, wine, beer or other? I could call you an alcoholic then. He things narrow minded Americans need to learn about other cultures and historically, why things are the way they are. European dissent is common for Americans but they know nothing about their history or their government and what it is why it is.
I have the express VPN but every time I turn it on, I get an email saying someone may be trying to get into my email. It happens every time, don't want to lose access to my email on my trip so kind of nervous about using it .
Another app to add is Google Voice. I have friends who don't use any messaging apps, only default texting on their phones. This allows them to send messages to me regardless of the local SIM card I am using. Plus it works on desktop should I be using a tablet back at the hotel.
While I agree using a VPN is advisable when using a public wi-fi, a better option might to be use an e-sim with a data plan. a 1 week 5 GB plan is very cheap.
SIM card you can get just about anywhere in a corner store kiosk, look for the signs advertising them. - just be sure to bring your passport. I did this last summer when I was in Greece. Enjoy!
Weather Spark. Must have to plan a trip. All weather data, any time frame. Average temp, rain fall etc for any day, month, year. Not an app but saves onto your home page like an app.
Tip specifically for Israel: Even if you use Gett, a lot of the taxi drivers will still try to run the “meter is broken, need a flat rate” scam. Take public transit whenever possible.
New to your channel, second video and really appreciating the content!! Not sure if it’s standard for you, but wanted to share that I found the music very repetitive, too loud and distracting. I think the info you’re providing is great on its own and hope not to find the music on every video. BUT that’s just my opinion, so big ol’ grain of salt! 😁
Google Translate and MS/Bing are my best friends when out of America. I have had a small conversation using just these apps. I am not a fan of "What's App, but 1 million % agree, in Europe everyone uses it. But for phone calls and text for example to my parents in their 80's they got FB, so not going to ask them to learn something new. So for back home conversation FB Messenger is the way to go. I have noticed a lot of business ate even using FB as a means to contact them. I have called & text several companies FB, so they could call me and then we could talk care of my business. I hope more companies do this or find their own wifi access to phone and text messages.
Everyone uses WhatsApp everywhere, except the USA. Americans just need to get over their dislike of WhatsApp and get used to it. Facebook Messenger the assumption is you want to be Facebook friends. Which may not be suitable. Many people at least in Europe only check Facebook messenger from a laptop.
little feedback I would show the most interesting apps first, about to click off when I heard google maps as the first one also curious if you have an external mic because your production looks great, but the audio sounds cam edit: the google app tips are great though. Just maybe start with I'm gonna show you stuff you DIDN'T KNOW you could do with Google Maps
Yes, I would Google “best rideshare app [country name]“. Joining Expat groups on Facebook for the country or cities you will be visiting can also be very helpful for things like this.
Thanks for this video, super helpful. I discovered that the currency converter app isn't free anymore - you have to pay to use the basic function of the calculator : /
I LOVE you guys. It’s not like asking my son, who feels it necessary to say, “Okay, Boomer…” when I ask for help. I have to answer him, “DUDE…I’m gonna be 63; it doesn’t come naturally!” So, thank you so much for explaining everything clearly, so that I’m less overwhelmed!
Do yourself, and your son, a favor by back-handing his oral cavity. Doing this will cure his sarcasm whilst also installing a healthy amount of fear.
Boo on your son! It's only appropriate to say, "Okay, Boomer" to the people who are dismissive of learning something new... especially when they won't look things up to try to find information for themselves. You're here, Googling that $h!t and figuring it out-that's what it's all about! 👏🏼
We are headed to Europe for the first time since we left our duty station in Germany in 1989. It's a whole new world! I find your videos very helpful. I am not annoyed by the music and I don't think you talk to much. :)
I’m not sure if this was mentioned but an agent at my cell carrier told me to always use airplane mode when using WhatsApp because if there is a drop in Wi-Fi, it may move into international calling mode so you don’t loose connection but then you get a bill by surprise later.
I just pay $50 for one month European cell service with my carrier.
Good Stuff, thanks! Getting ready for my trip to Europe!
Love your channel and tips! Thank you!
Very helpful video! Thank you!
Just an add on. Maybe before leaving for trip, add some Uber cash (or other rideshare for that country) to account in case there is some mix up or issue with the credit card. this buys you time to correct the issue after you get to where you need to go. Recent experience of mine.
fyi, i had uber cash on my phone and it did not work internationally and i had to use the credit cards that were linked.
Just found your channel and am binging your content!! Really appreciate the direct and useful information
I have to add to your list. You definitely need your Global Health Insurance company app. I work for GeoBlue/BCBS Global and now, post-pandemic, I couldn't imagine seeking healthcare overseas without assistance. Many providers outside of the USA want to have guarantee of payment so you may have to hand over your credit card before you're seen. We (and others) can help avoid that by working with the providers on a direct basis. Individual trip policies are cheap. Your domestic plan might not be adequate.
Thanks for the info! I just downloaded a bunch of your recommendations!
Just great videos for traveling. Glad I found your channel!!!
Comprehensive list...thanks 💪✈️
Great video! Thanks for sharing❤. Citymapper worked really well during our trip in Europe. It’s more precise than google map for walking directions.
Headed to Egypt in May….great info. Thanks!
Thanks, lots of useful info for future travel!
Thank you for the great tips on Apps. Will certainly make my trip to Europe much more stress-free.
Enjoyed the tips. Thank you so much you go straight to the subject no long story telling other than some good old fashion explanation.
Extremely informative and helpful video, thank you so much!
Great job! Thank you very much!
Thanks this was super helpful!!
Thank you for the recommendations!
Super helpful. Thank you!
Great recommendations. Just saw this, and your other video on cellular international plans. Will definitely take advantage of your travel tips. Traveling in a week, so your channel showed up on my feed in the nick of time. Subscribed ! Thank YOU .
Very very good information! Thank you!
Awesome tips!
Thanks! Very helpful.
Extremely informative video - I use all these apps too (yes, Grab is that helpful in SE Asia) and would also add Couchsurfing as a way to connect with locals or other travelers.
Extremely informative!
Great info. Thanks
Google Translate was very useful during our trip to Japan. Use the microphone feature to listen to overhead announcements and have it instantly translated to your language, especially if it may involves your transportation changes in airports or train stations.
Brilliant. I hadn’t thought of it being able to do that! Ty
All of these are so essential! Love the recommendation at the end about ride sharing services. Totally different everywhere you go! 😅
Right?!? I wish we could hail tuktuks with Uber here in North America. Thanks for watching!!!
I travelled for decades without them just fine. And if I run out of service areas I still have the mental tools to problem solve unlike most any men under 35.
@@JodyOwen-we6oo you seem very kind.
@@awaytogether You are a class act.
very helpful into , thank you
Thank you so much! This is a game changer for us. Especially the use of the google maps feature
thanks for the vides!! i just saw 3 in a row!! even do I know most of it, I can now send my friends and students to look for other info!
I am a new follower!!
Great video - all are must haves for sure!
Very helpful. We are going on a 30 day trip to the Med/Holy Land and these and your other tips will be great! Thx!
Awesome informative video ❤️ Thank you Bro 😎
Cool advise man... Thanks
I like Moovit for public transit options in metropolitan areas (worldwide), including maps, schedules, etc
Amazing video. Tons of great info
Big value 🎉 you ROCK !
This is an outstanding video, thank you so much. I am downloading apps as I watch. The Google Map Lists is fantastic.
I recomend the local public transportation app as well. For traveling in Europe for example
Excellent information! Thank you!
Thanks!
never heard of downloading google maps before! amazing thank you
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Thanks, lots of great tips for our upcoming 5 weeks in Eastern Europe!
I also found some discount for european rail tickets on TRIP. It's always good to look out for deals that can make travel more affordable❤
When in Europe prior to COVID we used Travel Wi-Fi in Paris and another company in Spain and Gibraltar.
We’re going to Amsterdam for 3 days prior to our cruise to Iceland, Ireland and UK and was wondering did we need to go this route again or is there something newer and an alternative way.
Thank you
GREAT TIPS❗️🎉
How wonderful!!! One of the very best videos for international travel ! Thank you!
Thanks so much, Linda! Glad it was helpful to you!
I am currently in Istanbul. I downloaded offline maps and also saved places in lists before the Turkey trip. The lists don't work properly when you dont have data and google maps just gives you the immediate area with no proper navigation function but you can see which way you are facing (It worked better prior to trip in Italy when I switched data off to test but here in Turkey its doesnt work so well)
Wonderful! 👍🏻
Another perfectly done video
Great info Didi in Mexico
Thank you so much for all your advice and hard to work. It has really helped. Now I’ve got to show this to my daughter so she can put all these apps on her phone. And put them online to Ha ha. Thanks a lot.
Great video! ❤
Thanks dude!!! 😭
Conversion apps for temperature and currency are pretty basic but were very helpful for us.
I also use TripIt. It’s free and holds our itinerary. Includes maps and amenities close by. Also the safety risk. It recognises that we’ve organised day trips and automatically adds them. We can also share this with family back home. Thx for all your great tips. Cheers from 🇦🇺
I was going to mention Tripit as well. Very handy. 👍.🇨🇦
This sounds very useful. Safety risk assessment would be great all by itself.
TripIt also keeps record of past trips so we can remember back. There are 13 trips on mine. The free version is all I need. Have fun.
I drive charter buses so whether I’m on my own vacation or someone else’s TripIt is awesome. I can always go back and revisit past trips. I love the fact I can make a hotel/flight/etc reservation or buy tickets to an event and it automatically gets added to “the trip it’s supposed to go to” as soon as the email confirmation comes in.
I’ll have to look into that. Thank you.
Nik: For Surfshark, do you recommend also getting the Alert/Antivirus/Search bundle when I purchase the 24 (+2 mos. free)??? I already have Norton on my iPhone, but I’m not sure it will work on my iPhone in Europe???
Xlnt video!
Great app info. I hope they all work.
Great info thanks. How about apps for hotels and apartments etc? Do you have a favorite or make sure to download the apps where you have already booked accommodation?
Very helpful. Do you know a good app for converting Imperial to metric?
Great tips, especially about the local ride sharing app. I wish I would've watched this video 3 months ago. We were in Barcelona in June. One time we had difficulty finding a subway station that serviced the line we needed. The ones that did service the line we needed were closed for various reasons & the other nearby stations we could've used would require transfers and we were too tired to figure it out. So we decided to take a cab and then had a hard time getting a cab! Of course that type of stuff always happens when you're so tired the only thing you want to do is just lay down!
Flighty is a must have
Thanks . For msg apps, Discord worked well for us in Europe
I have traveled, as well and did it, with kayak....
It didn't occur to me that Barcelona might not have Uber! Thanks for the tip!
I’m surprised you didn’t mention the convenience of global entry since at one point in your video you talk about how you detest long waits in lines!
i have apps for the Metros in Europe. Helps to plan how to get from airport or train station to hotel or hostel.
VPN this is what I need. I will download it. Thanks 🙏🏻
Great info! I loaded google translate but what language do I use for Tahiti? French? It’s French Polynesia. Please let me know. Thanks
Do you get a local sim card when you are travelling to different countries?
The first time I traveled internationally, USA to Germany, was my last (20 yrs ago) because it was such a nightmare that I never wanted to do it again. I'm going one more time but this time I'm getting schooled by people like Nik and Allie and should make it less of a nightmare. Thanks
TripIt is the best travel app for me
Um, question. I don't use ride apps Uber, Bolt, at home. I uploaded the apps, but they ask for your phone number. If I won't be using my phone, except for data, how do you communicate with them? Also, do they need your credit card number, or can you just pay when you reach your destination, with your credit card? Thanks.
I use xe for currency conversation and tip check
You might mention that the apps you mention are for Apple. Some of these are not available on Android.
Citymapper for London/UK is great for best travel directions and cheapest transport options
Not only for London but all major cities in Europe. Google Maps is a pain in the arse when it comes to using public transport.
TFL transport for london have their own app now. handy for status updates as lines often closed for maintenance at weekends. National Rail app isnt great but warns you of issues with trains to/from airports like gatwick/ luton or stansted
Rick Steves is definitely the most knowledgeable about Europe! Good recommendation!
Isn’t Rick Steves the doper European traveler? He’s missing out on a lot of the rest of the world.
@@robertwilliamson922 Doper? Really? Do you drink alcohol, at all, wine, beer or other? I could call you an alcoholic then. He things narrow minded Americans need to learn about other cultures and historically, why things are the way they are. European dissent is common for Americans but they know nothing about their history or their government and what it is why it is.
What an awesome video…so helpful and informative..especially for the generation I belong to……i.e.baby boomers..👍😁
I have the express VPN but every time I turn it on, I get an email saying someone may be trying to get into my email. It happens every time, don't want to lose access to my email on my trip so kind of nervous about using it .
Another app to add is Google Voice. I have friends who don't use any messaging apps, only default texting on their phones. This allows them to send messages to me regardless of the local SIM card I am using. Plus it works on desktop should I be using a tablet back at the hotel.
Google Voice is USA only. So not much use in Europe.
While I agree using a VPN is advisable when using a public wi-fi, a better option might to be use an e-sim with a data plan. a 1 week 5 GB plan is very cheap.
I looked into this and this is what I’m going to do on my trip to Paris 😊
Thanks for the great tips. We are going to Greece, and I was wondering if you have advice on how or where to get a SIM card. Thank you.
SIM card you can get just about anywhere in a corner store kiosk, look for the signs advertising them. - just be sure to bring your passport. I did this last summer when I was in Greece. Enjoy!
Use some esim apps, avoid kiosks at the major tourist hubs like airports.
do not forget a wallet app for your boarding passes on phone or ask hotel to print a copy, in case your phone dies :)
I'd definitely add some apps to manage getting an E-SIM, which makes local data much more affordable....
Do you know who to use for this?
@@cameronshackelton3404airalo is one!
Weather Spark. Must have to plan a trip. All weather data, any time frame. Average temp, rain fall etc for any day, month, year. Not an app but saves onto your home page like an app.
Google maps tells you what ride sharing company is there. Thats how I discovered Bolt when I was in Bratislava, Slovakia.
Tip specifically for Israel: Even if you use Gett, a lot of the taxi drivers will still try to run the “meter is broken, need a flat rate” scam. Take public transit whenever possible.
New to your channel, second video and really appreciating the content!! Not sure if it’s standard for you, but wanted to share that I found the music very repetitive, too loud and distracting. I think the info you’re providing is great on its own and hope not to find the music on every video. BUT that’s just my opinion, so big ol’ grain of salt! 😁
Going to the UK next year. Do you suggest renting a phone or using your own phone with international services?
Hi Sharon! There are plenty of ways you can use your own phone. I actually have a video about this coming out in a couple weeks!
I'm so sorry. VPN is only good to get round Geo fencing. That's it . Anonymity/ Security bits are all cow droppings.. love your content 👌🏽😊
Google Translate and MS/Bing are my best friends when out of America. I have had a small conversation using just these apps.
I am not a fan of "What's App, but 1 million % agree, in Europe everyone uses it. But for phone calls and text for example to my parents in their 80's they got FB, so not going to ask them to learn something new. So for back home conversation FB Messenger is the way to go. I have noticed a lot of business ate even using FB as a means to contact them. I have called & text several companies FB, so they could call me and then we could talk care of my business. I hope more companies do this or find their own wifi access to phone and text messages.
Everyone uses WhatsApp everywhere, except the USA. Americans just need to get over their dislike of WhatsApp and get used to it. Facebook Messenger the assumption is you want to be Facebook friends. Which may not be suitable. Many people at least in Europe only check Facebook messenger from a laptop.
Weird to dislike WhatsApp and then in the next sentence you like Facebook Messenger.
little feedback I would show the most interesting apps first, about to click off when I heard google maps as the first one
also curious if you have an external mic because your production looks great, but the audio sounds cam
edit: the google app tips are great though. Just maybe start with I'm gonna show you stuff you DIDN'T KNOW you could do with Google Maps
Is there an easy way to see what the local app is for rides?
Yes, I would Google “best rideshare app [country name]“. Joining Expat groups on Facebook for the country or cities you will be visiting can also be very helpful for things like this.
Just downloaded the lounge buddy app and it says that effective July 1, 2024 the app is being discontinued.
Thanks for this video, super helpful. I discovered that the currency converter app isn't free anymore - you have to pay to use the basic function of the calculator : /
Oh wow, really? Still works on my phone!
Might be a crazy question- but will these still be on your phone if you buy a sim card in Europe??
Yes!