I am deeply aware that traveling is a great privilege, especially now more than ever. Several countries had imposed travel restrictions resulting in tons of trips cancelled or postponed. Inevitably, people became frustrated. Imagine reorganizing your long awaited holiday or chasing down the travel agencies to get your money back. I, for one, still have pending refunds since February, but that’s another story.
Considering the fast evolving situation of the virus, travel restrictions can change in a heartbeat. That’s why, it was of utmost importance that I was extremely spontaneous with my travel plans. The best way to travel around Europe spontaneously and efficiently is by trains. Europe’s extensive train network is extraordinarily impressive. I used an Interrail pass (Eurail for non-EU residents/citizens) to maximize my train travels. Honestly, it’s the best thing there is when traveling around Europe on a reasonable budget and hassle-free.
After months of worldwide lockdown, a beam of light sparked hope for avid travelers and optimistic holiday makers. Last July, most countries in Europe gradually opened their borders to travelers originating from select countries. Being a resident in France, I grabbed this opportunity to explore Europe on a strange new perspective… with a mask.
I had a one-month unlimited pass which means I could hop on any train that doesn’t require prior reservation. And, in case I miss a train, I can always hop on the next one or change my direction completely. The beauty of having an Interrail pass is having the flexibility to modify my plans without any repercussion. At some point of my European trip, my next destination was determined by the weather forecast. That was how spontaneous I could be!
In hindsight, traveling around Europe in the “new normal” was not as bad as I thought. For someone like me who values personal space, it worked to my advantage. Passengers are seated apart and trains are operating at a reduced capacity. I was actually ecstatic with this arrangement when I was travelling on the night trains in Norway because I could then have the entire row to myself and get some proper sleep.
For me, traveling in the new normal was a breeze overall. I easily adapted to the situation and left everything to the last minute. The only difference now is the mandatory wearing of masks, distancing and some entry restrictions as per Reopen EU.
So, if you are hesitant to travel around Europe, don’t be. It is easier than you imagined. As long as you follow the rules of travel, you will definitely have a good time!
Europe is much safer. And I liked how you have put out the points and mentioned the details.
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I agree and thank you for appreciating the details 🙂
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Thanks for sharing, Sarah! I live in Tbilisi and the situation has been similar here. Happy (safe) travels to you!
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Thanks Melanie! I hope to visit Georgia soon. 🙂
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Thank you for sharing.I miss traveling so much. We go to Ireland every summer, and didnt get too go this year. We were so sad!! Ivknow when we go next year it will be different, this info will be helpful.
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That is indeed disappointing but better safe than sorry. I’m sure you will have a blast next time! 🙂
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Traveling during a pandemic is definitely challenging but possible if you follow all the guidelines and rules.
Antonia || Sweet Passions
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Indeed, as long as you follow the rules, it can be done during this time of pandemic.
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I miss travelling so much! Interesting to know what its been like through this year! happy and safe travels!
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Hopefully, things will loosen up soon so we can travel like ‘close’ to what it was like before the pandemic.
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Thanks for the reassurance that traveling to Europe is safe!
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My pleasure! I would not have risk it if it was not allowed nor safe.
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Take care, Sarah. At 26, You’re brave quitting your corporate job and travel the world. (I’ve read your “About” I wish I had the courage to do the same.
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Thanks Oscar! It’s only difficult in the beginning. Once you find your footing, everything else is a lot smoother. Please have a read at my recent post as it talks about how I came to be a digital nomad. I’m sure it will be interesting for you.
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Thank you for sharing this, everything is so strange right now! I can’t wait to get back to traveling but due to work I am stuck in place.
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Just a little bit more patience… 🙂
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Good to hear! Like everything, we do adjust. I have to make a long international plane trip with my family in 10 days and I am dreading it. I think this is really the perfect time to just stay put or make short trips like you did. Nice!
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You will be alright! Just think like it is a normal flight…
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I haven’t been brave enough to use public transportation yet. The United States is still a big mess. Sounds like Europe is doing much, much better.
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I think US is completely different story. I wouldn’t risk using public transport there.
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Wow, your travel was really good. Currently for me travelling is not feasible but really look forward to it soon as the situation is better.
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I haven’t travelled outside my country yet after since the whole pandemic began. A lot of boarders are open within the EU but I’m still skeptical.
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Travelling now is very daunting, but can be achieved successfully if you follow all the necessary guidelines.
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I miss traveling so much. I used to get to experience so much, not anymore with the pandemic =(
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Hopefully soon!
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I don’t know if I am quite ready to travel again yet, but kudos to you for doing so safely!
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As long as you follow the rules and avoid crowded places, you’ll be alright 🤗
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I can’t wait to travel again, and the additional safety is alright with me. I guess the next travel trend will make travelers more mindful and responsible.
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Exactly!
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I am afraid to travel right now. Knowing my luck I would catch something. I will eventually have to push myself to go because I need to go see my cousin in New Jersey again.
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One day or another, we will travel again. We need to do some precautions and pay attention to the rules. It will be fine.
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Thanks for your post! It makes me excited to travel again!
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I’m still a bit wary to travel during this pandemic. I live in Europe as well and have had numerous friends go to France and Portugal for summer vacation and go sick or knew someone that did. Be safe out there!
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Thank you for the concern!
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I’m glad you’ve been able to get back to traveling. I think I’d love the reduced capacity trains as well. I don’t like have a lot of people right on top of me so these new social distancing things have been pretty nice. I hope continue to enjoy your European travels.
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Right, the reduced capacity on public transport is working on my favor 😀
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The new normal is not that bad i think, wearing a mask and social distancing while travelling is not bad at all for our own safety especially if it’s means we can travel again, oh I love to keep travelling. I think the one month unlimited pass on the train is a good idea.
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If we respect the rules and improve our hygiene, we can probably continue traveling without any hassle.
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