Italy

1. Visit churches at off-hours. Some of the best art (like caravaggio in San Luigi dei Francesi) is free and uncrowded in the morning.
2. Order coffee like a local: cappuccino only before 11am, espresso after meals. Say: "Buongiorno! Potrei avere un cappuccino, per favore?"Do this only if you are up for the challenge.
3. Always validate your bus/train tickets. The fines are no joke.
4. Wear comfortable shoes! You will be doing a lot of walking.

France

1. In cities, especially Paris: learn a few key French phrases (even just "Bonjour, excusez-moi") before asking in English, it improves how the locals treat you.
2. Try regional specialties when outside Paris. Like galettes in Brittany or duck in the southwest. You will not be disappointed.
3. Always check for first Sunday of the month for free museum entries.

Ireland

1. Best pub music is not in Temple Bar. Head to small towns like Doolin, Galway, or Dingle.
2. Rent a car! Ubers are expensive.
3. Locals are super friendly. Chat with people in pubs. They want to talk to you.

Austria

1. In Vienna, coffeehouse culture is more "sit and stay for hours". Do not feel pressured to leave. Enjoy the moment.
2. Salzkammergut region (if you did not get to go) are underrated alpine lakes. They are way less touristy than Switzerland.
3. Always validate transport tickets. Vienna runs on an honor system, but fines are enforced.

England

1. Do not stand on the left side of the escalator. It is basically a London sin.
2. Free museums! Prioritize the Tate Modern,ritish Museum, or V&A, even for an hour or two.
3. Days trips that are worth it: Brighton, Cambridge, Bath or Windsor.

Czech Republic

1. Dinner in Prague is late. Do not expect restaurants to even open until 8:30pm.
2. Czech beer is cheaper than water. Try small local breweries like U Medvídků
3. Exchange money only at reputable places like eXchange.cz. Lots of scams near Old Town. Stay away!

Spain

1. Dinner is late in Spain! Like Czech Republic, restaurants don't open until 8:30 - 9pm!
2. Tapas are often free with drinks. What a great budget hack.
3. Sunday's are quiet. Plan accordingly as many places shut down.

Portugal

1. Wear good shoes: Lisbon and Porto have slick, steep cobblestone hills.
2. Use the tuktuks in Lisbon for hills but negotiate the price befre getting in.
3. Try a francesinha in Porto, and pastéis de nata everywhere else. Eat one that is warm and fresh.

Traveling is not just about checking countries off a list, it's about collecting experience, getting lost (on purpose), and learning how different but connected we all are. Wherever you go next, go deeper, stay longer, and always ask the locals what they love.