Airline Policies & Advice on Flying with Your Pets

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Tips To Prepare Air Travel With Pets

Traveling the world can be one of the most fulfilling things in life – even more so if you can travel with your beloved pets. Today’s blog is a special guest post from a pet lover and pet co-traveler.

Your pets can board the plane in three ways. Aside from being with you in the cabin, they could also be transported as a checked baggage cargo or a manifest cargo.

Bringing pets on board planes shouldn’t be a hassle for you, especially if you’re flying to for a vacation. You don’t need unnecessary stress right? Then, check out these handy tips to remember to make air travels with your pets easier.

Pet Travel Tip #1. Booking tickets

Firstly, look for pet-friendly airports that will accommodate you and your pet with less hassle. As much as possible, try to book your flight ahead of time.  It’s because some airlines only allow about two passengers with a pet on every flight.

You also would probably have to purchase your tickets in person or over the phone. There wouldn’t be an option for bringing pets through online bookings.

Bringing your pet with you can cost an extra fee that ranges from $75 to $200.

If your budget permits, it is much better to book a direct flight than a connecting one to avoid stopovers. Moving a lot could be very stressful for your pets.

Pet Travel Tip #2. Training them to travel

Weeks before flying with your pet, you can slowly ease them into traveling. Pets who aren’t used to be cooped up in the carrier can be a problem.

Try placing them in the carrier regularly and drive away.  Soon enough, they’ll get used to the feeling of moving around.

Practice placing your pet in the carrier and put it in your car while driving. You can also toss in an old shirt inside the carrier so your smell can calm it down.

Pet Travel Tip #3. Veterinarian checks

Your vet should provide a go signal that your pet is fit to travel. Not only that but it’s also necessary that it is complete/updated in vaccinations.

The airline may require a couple of certifications from your vet. Get a copy of your pet’s medical records, as well as a Veterinary Health Certificate which is valid for a month.

Pet Travel Tip #4. The Carrier

It is one of the most vital equipment to have when traveling with your pet. Carriers should be on the size and type approved by the airline and compliant with International Air Transport Association specifications.

It should provide proper ventilation in all sides, a spring lock door, steel fasteners, as well as food and water containers near the door.  On the outside of the carrier, there should be a label that indicates that there’s a live animal on it.

There can be a problem if your pet isn’t used to be inside the carrier so it is important to make it a part of the furniture; not some foreign contraption.

Pet Travel Tip #5. Burn that energy

Keeping your pet as active as possible up until boarding can help it burn off too much energy and anxiety.

Pets can get antsy if they are in a closed-off space for a long time. If they are tired enough, they can just nap during the flight and forget about the stress of flying in the first place!

You might think of just giving them a sedative to make things easier. But in reality, you should not give them some unless directed by your vet.

The American Veterinary Medical Association says that dogs should not be given sedatives prior to flying for it can create health problems as your pet is exposed to high altitude pressures.

Pet Travel Tip #6. Getting there

If you’re a frequent flyer, you’re probably used to coming at the airport earlier. However, if ever you ’re with your pets, you should arrive at least 1 additional hour earlier than when you’re alone.

Take note that some airlines collect pet fees during check-in and not over the phone. Ask the airline employees on where you should load your pet if it isn’t staying in the cabin – most likely the cargo area.

Pet Travel Tip #7. Food and water

Although a little water is fine, it is best to avoid giving your pet food about 5 hours before the scheduled flight. This is to limit the potty breaks and other messes.

It’s alright to let it travel on an empty stomach and just feed it after the flight. Pack just a serving of food just in case there’s a delay.

The infographic above is not constantly updated, so do check with your airline before you fly to check on their current policies.

Don’t forget these things if you want to include your pet on your next travels. For more travel tips and knowledge, check out these blog posts and videos.

11 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit Amsterdam

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Eleven Shocks of Amsterdam Culture

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today we’re posting from Amsterdam. We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks of your Amsterdam vacation.

Amsterdam Culture Shock #1: Aggressive Beggars

The first thing you notice when you emerge from the train station in Amsterdam are the aggressive beggars. The beggars are more aggressive in Amsterdam than most other places we’ve been; thanks to Amsterdam’s party culture, they know travelers are more likely to give up  money. Be ready for this, and they will make you feel uncomfortable.

Amsterdam Culture Shock #2: English is Spoken Well

You will be shocked at how great everyone’s English is in Amsterdam. You don’t even have to try speaking Dutch; everyone here speaks English really well, even the beggars.

Amsterdam Culture Shock #3: Marijuana Smoke

Even if you don’t go straight to the red light district, as you walk anywhere in Amsterdam, you’ll be shocked at the pervasive smell of marijuana. You will smell it everywhere, and there are coffee shops all over town with marijuana menus that you can order from.

Read: 12 Things Tourists Should Not Do When Visiting the Netherlands

Amsterdam Culture Shock #4: Red Light District

Amsterdam’s Red Light District is world famous, but it’s still shocking when you see it for the first time. You will see women in windows, trying to entice customers inside. Although this is shocking, don’t take their picture. What’s also shocking to some visitors is that this is only a small slice of Amsterdam, it’s not something you see everywhere in town.

Amsterdam Culture Shock #5: Abundant Culture in Amsterdam

Outside of the Red Light District, the city of Amsterdam is full of culture. The Rieks Museum is world-renowned for its art collection. There’s an entire museum devoted to the work of Van Gogh. You might notice that most art museums have a “Dutch masters” section and that’s because a lot of art has come from the Netherlands.

Amsterdam Culture Shock #6: The Line to Visit Anne Frank’s House

If you don’t buy tickets online, you will be shocked at how long the line is to visit the Anne Frank house in Amsterdam. It can take hours to get inside, and many travelers just give up at the thought of spending so much time in line. It’s very moving and an experience worth having; just plan ahead to save yourself some time.

Amsterdam Culture Shock #7: Traffic Near-Misses

Don’t be surprised if you are nearly killed by a bicycle or a tram at least once a day in Amsterdam. Just think: “Red=Dead.” The red lane is for bicycles only, and pedestrians should stay out of them, or pay close attention when crossing the red lane. If you have a chance to ride a bike in Amsterdam, do it, it’s a quintessential Amsterdam experience. They even have bike tours you can take.

Amsterdam Culture Shock #8: Canals & Architecture of Amsterdam

There are canals everywhere in Amsterdam, and they are beautiful. With so many bridges, there are dozens of scenic viewpoints around town. And the architecture of Amsterdam is amazing to look at and photograph. Even though canal tours are super touristy, they are totally worth it for the views.

Amsterdam Culture Shock #9: Expensive Accommodation

You’ll be shocked at how expensive Amsterdam hotels are, especially on weekends. For a fraction of the price, you can stay in Haarlem or another small town just outside the city center.) Generally, when you visit Amsterdam, you won’t spend much time in your room as you’ll be out exploring, so don’t worry too much if you rent a small room.

Watch: Free Things to Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam Culture Shock #10: Hotel Stairs

If you stay at a smaller, independent hotel, expect steep, narrow stairs to reach your room. This is a great reason to pack lightly, as you’ll have to lug your suitcase up these narrow, steep stairs. For older travelers, or those with mobility issues, be sure to check your accommodations ahead of time to see if you’ll be scaling any steep steps. The larger chain hotels will likely have elevators if you need them.

Amsterdam Culture Shock #11: Drunk and High Tourists

It’s worth mentioning again that Amsterdam is still a prime party destination, especially on the weekends. You will see very drunk people and very stoned people in the streets of Amsterdam. Many come here and don’t know their limits and tend to go way overboard. Do your best to avoid any large groups of partiers that you might see walking around. If you want to see the red light district but want to avoid these types, try to go earlier in the day.

We hope these eleven tips help you prepare to visit Amsterdam, and lessen the shocks you have upon arrival. Have you been to Amsterdam? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

11 Culture Shocks for Visitors to Ireland

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Eleven Things That Will Shock You on Your Ireland Vacation

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today we’re posting from Ireland. We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks when you visit Ireland.

Ireland Vacation Shock #1: How Much the Irish Cuss

Whether you are walking down the street, or grabbing a pint in a pub, when you hear the Irish people around you talking, you’ll be shocked at how much they cuss. No matter if they are young, old, upper class, middle class, it seems everyone in Ireland loves to use curse words!

Ireland Vacation Shock #2: Irish Apologies

Another surprise is how often the Irish apologize and say “sorry.” Whether they bump into you on the street or just look at you the wrong way, you’ll likely be on the receiving end of many Irish apologies throughout your vacation. As a traveler in Ireland, it’s important to mirror this and also be very polite, using “please” “thank you” and “sorry.”

Ireland Vacation Shock #3: How Friendly the Irish Are

People in Ireland are so friendly! The bartenders, waiters, and even just people you meet on the street are all so friendly. They’re so helpful; they will stop what they are doing to help you or make recommendations of local things to see and eat. Every time we come to Ireland, we meet the most amazing Irish people.

Ireland Vacation Shock #4: The Natural Beauty of Ireland

They call Ireland the Emerald Isle because it is so green and beautiful. As you drive around Ireland, you will want to stop and take photos every ten feet. From the Ring of Kerry to the Cliffs of Moher, and so many other amazing viewpoints, you will be shocked at how gorgeous Ireland is. Yes, all that green comes from a lot of rain, but it doesn’t rain all the time in Ireland. To truly see the best of Ireland, you’ll need to rent a car rather than rely on public transportation.

Ireland Vacation Shock #5: Irish Drive on the Left, so Look Right

When you first arrive in Ireland, it’s a bit of a shock to adjust to driving on the left. As a pedestrian, you also have to keep this in mind when crossing the street; be sure to look right before crossing. There are signs everywhere to remind drivers to stay on the left. When you rent a car, you might also be shocked to learn that most rentals are manual transmission cars with a stick shift. If you aren’t familiar with a stick shift, expect to pay a significant upcharge for automatic transmission.

Ireland Vacation Shock #6: Narrow Roads in Ireland

As you drive around Ireland, you’ll be shocked at how tiny the roads are. The motorways are fine, but as you explore the backroads of Ireland, the roads are incredibly narrow. When you have a truck approaching you on these narrow roads, you may understand why the Irish swear so much! Driving in Ireland can be a shock to your system. Don’t rush, it’s OK to take your time while driving around.

Read: Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Car and Driving in Europe

Ireland Vacation Shock #7: Irish Food

Irish food gets a bad rap, but it’s actually gotten way better in recent years. You will eat really well in Ireland. Irish cuisine has expanded beyond potatoes, and foodies have gotten their claws into Irish cuisine. Lamb is an Irish specialty, but you’ll also find great seafood beyond the usual fish and chips.

Watch: What to Eat in Ireland

Ireland Vacation Shock #8: Pub Culture in Ireland

The pub in Ireland is more than just a bar. The pub is where locals gather to watch sports, talk politics and drink beer. It’s really a community gathering place, and for visitors to Ireland, it’s a great place to meet locals and get insider trips for your travels. Many pubs will have live music on the weekends, too.

Ireland Vacation Shock #9: Quality of Guinness in Ireland

Guinness is a popular beer, and it tastes fine anywhere in the world, but once you’ve had Guinness in Ireland, you’ll see what you’ve been missing. It’s so fresh in Ireland and it tastes so much better, you won’t believe you’re even drinking the same beer that you know from back home.

Ireland Vacation Shock #10: Castle Ruins Around Ireland

There are so many castle ruins around Ireland. Even Blarney Castle is just ruins, there are no rooms and furnishings like you might see in other popular European castles. Some of the castle ruins in Ireland date back to the 5th century, and you can also find Neolithic ruins in Ireland.

Read: What to Know About Visiting Blarney Castle in Ireland

Ireland Vacation Shock #11: Cheap Airfare to Ireland

It’s shocking how affordable flights to Ireland are. Whether you are flying from Europe or the US, there are always flight deals to Ireland. Consider a $500 flight from Chicago to Ireland vs a $1200 flight from Chicago to Paris at the same time. With low-cost carriers like RyanAir, flying all over Europe, you can fly to Ireland cheaply, then have easy access to the rest of Europe. The money you will save on airfare to Ireland will give you a few extra dollars to spend during your Ireland vacation.

We hope these eleven tips help you prepare to visit Ireland, and lessen the shocks you have upon arrival. Have you been to Ireland? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Culture Shocks Tourists Have When They Visit Austria

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Ten Things That Will Shock You on Your Austria Vacation

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today we’re posting from Salzburg, Austria. We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks when you visit Austria.

Austria Vacation Shock #1: Austria is Not Germany

Austria and Germany are not the same country, and Austrians really don’t like being lumped in with Germans. Yes, both countries speak German, but Austrian German is different than the German spoken in Germany. If you want a hot dog, you have to order a Wiener in Austria, but a Frankfurter in Germany. The culture and people of Austria are unique from German culture and people.

Austria Vacation Shock #2: The Desserts

Austrians love their desserts, and it’s immediately clear when you see all of the pastry shops around town. From cakes to tortes to streudel to pastries, you better bring your sweet tooth to Austria! The number of bakeries and cafes is shocking when you visit Austria!

Austria Vacation Shock #3: Excellent Tourist Infrastructure

The tourist infrastructure in Austria is really well developed and well run. Hotels, B&Bs, trains and public transport all make traveling in Austria very easy, even for English-speaking travelers.

Austria Vacation Shock #4: Huge Austrian Influence on European History

The Holy Roman Empire and the Hapsburg family were a key part of Austrian history, and the Hapsburgs had a huge impact on history throughout Europe. You’ll see familiar architecture in Budapest or Bratislava, where the Hapsburgs also ruled.

Austria Vacation Shock #5: Quaint Town Centers in Austria

As you travel around Austria, you might be surprised at how quaint the town centers are. Even the smallest towns are super cute, in part because of Hapsburg money that was poured into the region during their rule. The town centers are also really well preserved, so the history lives on through the buildings.

Watch: Top Ten Towns in Austria

Austria Vacation Shock #6: Service in Austria

Service in Austria is not great; they aren’t friendly or helpful when you eat out in Austria. On top of that, it’s still expected that you tip around 10% for your server. They will answer any questions you have, but won’t volunteer additional information or assistance.

Watch: Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Austria

Austria Vacation Shock #7: Austrian Pride

Austrians love their country and culture; so much so that they are sometimes seen as nationalistic. It’s almost as if everyone is a tour guide, with a lot of historical knowledge and pride. This national pride is really evident in the quality and quantity of art museums, opera houses, and other museums.

Austria Vacation Shock #8: The Austrian Countryside

Many travelers who visit Austria will see Vienna, and perhaps Salzburg, but the countryside of Austria is really breathtaking. The Austrian Alps and lakes, whether it’s Innsbruck or Hallstatt, are stunning and well worth taking a few trips away from the cities of Austria. Outdoor adventure travelers love Austria for the endless hiking and skiing opportunities.

Austria Vacation Shock #9: The Wine is Better than Beer

Unlike neighboring Germany, beer isn’t that great in Austria. The wine is actually much better than beer, especially white wine from Austria. (Another example of how Austria is not Germany!)

Austria Vacation Shock #10: Culture in Austria

There is so much rich culture to see and experience in Austria. There are so many museums, historic sites and cultural attractions. Salzburg has several Mozart sites, and music is a large part of Austria’s culture. Even a backpacker traveling on a budget can experience culture in Austria; the Vienna Opera House offers standing room tickets for only four Euros!

We hope these ten tips help you prepare to visit Austria, and lessen the shocks you have upon arrival. Have you been to Austria? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Culture Shocks of Visiting Sweden for Tourists

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Ten Things That Will Shock You on Your Sweden Vacation

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today we’re posting from Sweden. We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks when you visit Sweden.

Sweden Vacation Shock #1: Buying Alcohol

If you want to buy alcohol in Sweden, you have to go to a special store, called the System Bolaget. You can buy beer at convenience stores, but liquor in Sweden is only sold at the government-run stores, which have very inconvenient hours. Don’t wait until evening or the weekends to buy alcohol in Sweden.

Sweden Vacation Shock #2: Swedish People Aren’t Actually Reserved

At first, the people in Sweden seem so reserved, but once Midsummer arrives, or any festival, the Swedes go crazy and love to sing along at festivals. The Swedes really loosen up at the festivals, which is a shock if you are used to the normally reserved nature of Sweden’s culture.

Sweden Vacation Shock #3: Natural Beauty of Sweden

As you travel around Sweden, you will be shocked at the natural beauty of Sweden. From the archipelagos to the forests, lakes and summer homes, Sweden has so much natural beauty. So, make sure you leave the cities during your Sweden vacation, and see all that Sweden has to offer.

Watch: Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Visiting Sweden

Sweden Vacation Shock #4: Extremes of Daylight in Sweden

Depending on when you visit, you’ll notice an extreme of daytime and nighttime in Sweden. If you visit Sweden in the summer, the sun is up before 5am and it stays light out until 10 or 11pm, even midnight around Midsummer. The flip-side is that winter in Sweden is very dark. The payoff for all that darkness, though, is the chance to see the Northern Lights.

Sweden Vacation Shock #5: Quiet Public Transport

If you take public transportation in Sweden, it’s shocking how quiet it is. People don’t really talk on the trains and buses in Sweden, and if you are being loud, locals may ask you to be quiet.

Sweden Vacation Shock #6: Attractiveness of the Swedes

It is really shocking how attractive everyone in Sweden is. The men and the women in Sweden are gorgeous. They also have a really keen fashion sense, and Sweden is known for cool design. So don’t be surprised if you feel like a schlub when walking amongst the beautiful people of Sweden.

Sweden Vacation Shock #7: Nudity is Normal

The Swedes are not prudes; they will often strip down nude to jump into the lake or the sauna. Obviously, this is more common in the summer, when it’s warm, but expect that you might see some nudity in Sweden.

Sweden Vacation Shock #8: Safety in Sweden

Sweden is such a safe country; we never worry about our safety when we visit Sweden. Unlike some other European countries and cities, you don’t have to be on high alert for pickpockets all the time, because nobody will bother you in Sweden. Of course, there are urban areas to avoid, and common travel sense must be used like anywhere else, but in general, Sweden is super safe.

Sweden Vacation Shock #9: Shopping on Sundays

A big shock for many travelers to Europe is finding many stores closed on Sundays. However, there are actually stores open on Sundays in Sweden, which is a nice surprise if you’ve gotten used to European shop hours.

Sweden Vacation Shock #10: Swedish Service

People in Sweden are very reserved, and it can be hard to get to know them. Likewise, the service in Sweden isn’t great. Servers in Sweden are paid very well, so they aren’t going above and beyond to get a tip from you. However, once you do get to know the Swedes, they are super friendly and helpful. (Knowing a few words of Swedish really helps!)

Watch: Tipping in Sweden

Sweden Vacation Shock #11: Swedish Line Culture

Queuing up in Sweden is a unique part of Swedish culture. When you get in line for something, you need a ticket just to wait in line, or your spot won’t count. Also, when you are in line, you really want to be right up next to the person in front of you. If you leave too much space, someone will fill it!

We hope these ten tips help you prepare to visit Sweden, and lessen the shocks you have upon arrival. Have you been to Sweden? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit Denmark

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Ten Danish Culture Shocks for Denmark Travelers

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today we’re in Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark. We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks for visitors to Copenhagen.

Danish Culture Shock #1: The Silence

As you travel around Denmark, you’ll notice how quiet it is. It’s practically silent on public transportation, and that’s because the Danes don’t really talk a lot out in public. They’re private people, so it seems they save their conversations for once they get home.

Danish Culture Shock #2: Rigid Rule Followers

The Danes are really conforming to rules, especially when it comes to cross walk signs. If there are no cars for miles, they still won’t cross on a red light. In general, it’s a very orderly society. For that reason, you won’t see many police officers around Copenhagen, either.

Danish Culture Shock #3: You Will Almost Be Killed By a Bike

There are bikes everywhere in Denmark, and you will inevitably have some close calls as you walk around town. Jaywalking can be dangerous because you have to look for more than just cars. Be especially careful when stepping out of a taxi or getting off a bus!

Danish Culture Shock #4: Babies Left Outside Shops & Restaurants

As you walk around Copenhagen, visiting restaurants and shops, you may notice baby carriages lined up outside. With babies inside the carriage! Copenhagen is super safe, so parents often leave their babies outside while they enjoy a meal indoors.

Danish Culture Shock #5: How Safe Copenhagen Is

As rule following people, Denmark is super safe. Many people don’t lock their bikes, and at the museums, you just hang your coat up. This is great for travelers, but can also be a shock if you’ve just come from other European capitals, like Paris, Rome or Berlin, where you’re always on high alert for pickpockets.

Danish Culture Shock #6: Outdoor Enjoyment (Even in the Cold!)

People in Denmark really love being outdoors, even in the winter. Whether it’s hiking, swimming, biking or skiing, there are loads of outdoor recreation opportunities. With only a few months of warm, sunny weather, the Danes take advantage of the outdoors year-round rather than waiting until summer to get outside.

Read: The Best & Worst of Europe in Winter

Danish Culture Shock #7: Danish Ambivalence

As you walk down the streets of Copenhagen, you’ll notice that there’s no eye contact. You won’t hear “please, thank you, excuse me” as you might in other countries. You will almost feel invisible sometimes. This applies to service at restaurants, too. Denmark is one of the happiest countries in the world, and the Danes are very content, which also means they aren’t going to go out of their way to provide stellar service.

Danish Culture Shock #8: Food Obsessions

You’ll notice an obsession with certain Danish foods. The Danes are obsessed with hot dogs, remoulade and Smørrebrød. Some things are worth the obsession: pastries are fantastic in Denmark, which is why we even have Danish pastries in the U.S. Remoulade is a yellow sauce they put on hot dogs, which is another obsession. Smørrebrød is an open-faced sandwich on rye bread, which everyone loves in Denmark.  

Watch: What to Eat in Denmark

Danish Culture Shock #9: Directness of the Danes

The Danes come across as rude initially, but they are really just very direct. You won’t hear a lot of “please” and “thank you’s.” They just don’t waste time on fluffy words and politeness. They are very efficient, and that includes conversation as well. 

Danish Culture Shock #10: Credit Cards are King!

In many European countries, cash is still king. Not so in Denmark. Nearly every place you go, you will be paying with a credit card. However, you have to have a PIN for your credit card in order to use it in most places. If you don’t have a PIN, you won’t be able to use your card, and we’ve run into several places that would not take cash, or who claimed not to have change.

We hope these ten tips help you better understand Danish culture, and lessen the shocks you have when arriving in Denmark. Have you been to Denmark? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists about Visiting Iceland

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Ten Things About Icelandic Culture that Shock Visitors

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re in Iceland! We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks of Icelandic culture.

Iceland Culture Shock #1: The Natural Beauty

The natural beauty of Iceland is stunning. Glaciers, fjords, lava fields and waterfalls are just the beginning of the beauty in Iceland. It is easily the most majestic place we’ve ever visited, in Europe, or anywhere else in the world.

Iceland Culture Shock #2: The Weather

You may think you’ll visit Iceland in the summer when it’s warm. Here’s the shocker: it never really gets warm in Iceland! We visited in July and it was 42 degrees. (Fahrenheit) No matter what time of year that you visit Iceland, bring lots of layers and warm clothes. Even if it’s warmer, there’s also a lot of wind, which makes it colder.

Iceland Culture Shock #3: Driving in Iceland

To really see what Iceland is all about, you need to drive around the country. The shock is the actual driving; from one lane bridges, dirt roads and very few guardrails, driving in Iceland can be an adjustment. If the weather changes, the roads can get a little slick as well, so be prepared for any road conditions.

Watch: Advice for Driving in Iceland

Iceland Culture Shock #4: Amazingly Friendly Residents

The people of Iceland are some of the nicest people in the world. Everyone we have met has been so helpful with recommendations and they are very thankful and appreciative of tourists. Unlike the countries of Scandinavia, where locals are usually reserved, in Iceland the residents are very outgoing and friendly.

Iceland Culture Shock #5: The OtherWorldly Feeling

Some of the sights in Iceland make you feel like you’re on another planet. The lava fields and moss-covered hills are unlike anything you’ll see anywhere else in the world. It’s really astounding.

Iceland Culture Shock #6: Hot Springs & Thermal Pools

There are thermal spas and hot swimming pools all over Iceland. Don’t forget your swimsuits because you have to experience a thermal pool while you’re in Iceland. There’s the famous Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik, but there are also many hot springs and thermal pools all over Iceland. 

Iceland Culture Shock #7: Safety in Iceland

Iceland is incredibly safe, unless you are messing around in nature and fall over a waterfall! In terms of crime, or lack thereof, Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world.

Iceland Culture Shock #8: Icelandic Sweaters

The Icelandic sweaters aren’t just for tourists. The locals love their wool sweaters, and they all have a story behind their sweaters. Jocelyn bought a sweater from a waitress; the sweater was woven by her mother-in-law with wool from sheep from the father-in-law. If you forgot to bring warm clothes to Iceland, Icelandic wool sweaters make a great, practical souvenir.

Iceland Culture Shock #9: Local Approach to Everything

For an isolated island nation, it’s shocking how much local production is used in the food and clothing you see around Iceland. Even produce is locally sourced around Iceland.

Watch: What to Eat & Drink in Iceland

Iceland Culture Shock #10: How Sparse Iceland Is

With fewer than 400,000 people living in Iceland, you don’t really find cities or towns around the island. Instead, what you find are small communities and villages that are spread far apart. For travelers, that means you won’t find hotels everywhere in Iceland. Most visitors stay in guesthouses as hotels are only found in a few cities.

Iceland Culture Shock #11. Sticker Shock

Iceland prices will knock your woolen socks off. From accommodation to food you need to be ready to pay a significant price premium on goods and services when you are in Iceland. So have your wallet ready.

We hope these ten shocks of Iceland culture make you want to visit Iceland, and lessen the shocks you have upon arrival. Have you been to Iceland? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit Norway

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Ten Things About Norway Culture that Shock Visitors

Greetings from Oslo, Norway! We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks of Norway travel.

Norway Travel Shock #1: The Cost of Norway Travel

Everything in Norway is so expensive, it is shocking for first-time visitors. Hotels, food, clothing, transport, etc. Norway is a once in a lifetime experience, because you can only afford it once in a lifetime!

Read: How to Save Money While Traveling

Norway Travel Shock #2: The Natural Beauty of Norway

Photos of Norway are impressive, but once you see the natural beauty of Norway in person, it’s shocking. The fjords are amazing, and a quintessential part of any Norway travel. It’s a great place to get out and explore nature, whether you are hiking, skiing, kayaking or just riding along on a boat cruise through the fjords.

Norway Travel Shock #3: Liquor Laws

It is surprisingly hard to purchase alcohol in Norway. If you want a drink outside of a restaurant, you have to go to the state run liquor stores, which have very limited hours. Having a few drinks before you go out for the night is a great way to save money, but you have to plan ahead in order to purchase alcohol.

Norway Travel Shock #4: Norwegian Pride

People in Norway are very proud of their country and their Norwegian culture. This is most evident in the quantity and quality of museums throughout Norway. The Viking Ship Museum and the Folk Museum in Oslo, and you’ll find great festivals and museums all over Norway.

Norway Travel Shock #5: Extreme Light and Dark

If you visit Norway in the winter, it’s dark almost the entire day. The flipside is that summer in Norway means a lot of daylight, as the sun doesn’t go down until late in the evening. This can be a shock to your system, and throw off your sleeping schedule. Along those lines, the chill of Norway can also be a shock. It’s very cold in winter, and chilly the rest of the year. Make sure you bring layers of clothing and are prepared for cool weather year-round.

Norway Travel Shock #6: Beggars in Oslo

Norway is very much about equality and quality of life, but you will still see a lot of beggars in Oslo. Despite the “happiness factor” of Norway, Oslo still has the same problems as any major city, so be prepared to see street people asking for money in Oslo.

Norway Travel Shock #7: Equality in Norway

Despite the beggars you will see in Oslo, there is a shocking equality in Norway. Yes, there are high taxes, but there really aren’t huge disparities of income in Norway. (The Norwegians are the first to tell you that the beggars are not Norwegians.) This shows in many facets of Norwegian culture, including in conversations.

Norway Travel Shock #8: Skiing is Serious Stuff

You might be shocked at how much people in Norway love to ski. Norway always racks up the Olympic medals, most often in the winter sports events. Whether it’s downhill or cross-country, Norwegians really love to ski.

Norway Travel Shock #9: You Can Eat Whale Meat

It’s not an urban legend, you actually can eat whale meat in Norway. It’s not an everyday item on the menus in Norway, but it’s possible to find it if it’s something you want to try. If you didn’t know this ahead of time, it can be shocking to see it on a menu.

Watch: What to Eat in Norway

Norway Travel Shock #10: Lots of Paid Holidays

Pretty much the entire month of July is a paid holiday in Norway, and overall they get a lot of paid time off to travel or enjoy life. This is especially shocking for Americans who visit and only have a couple of weeks off per year.

We hope these ten tips help you prepare to visit Norway, and lessen the shocks you have upon arrival. Have you been to Norway? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit Normandy

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Ten Things That Shock Tourists who Visit Normandy, France

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today we’re in Normandy, which is most famous for the D-Day beaches. We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks for visitors to Normandy.

Visit Normandy Shock #1: The Moving Experience of the D-Day Beaches

When you visit the D-Day beaches and the cemeteries, it’s an incredibly moving experience. You really get a feel for what happened during World War II on D-Day. You can visit Omaha Beach, where the Allied troops landed on June 6, 1944.You learn the stories of the soldiers, and how much they sacrificed. You will tear up at the stories.

Tip: Visit some of the Normandy museums before you visit the beaches and the sites; you’ll have a better understanding of the background.

Watch: Visiting D-Day Beaches: Advice and Tips on Visiting the Normandy Beaches

Visit Normandy Shock #2:  The Number of Museums and Memorials

You will be shocked at how many D-Day and Battle of Normandy museums and monuments there are in the area. There’s an insane number of museums; it can be hard to decide which ones to visit. There’s one just about paratroopers, one about Operation Overlord, an Omaha Beach museum, a Battle of Normandy museum, and so many more.

Visit Normandy Shock #3: There are German Cemeteries in Normandy

When you think about D-Day, we usually think about the Allied troops, the Brits, Canadians, Americans and others. But Germans died at Normandy, too, so there are German cemeteries here.

Visit Normandy Shock #4: Your First Glimpse of Mont St. Michel

One of the most photographed places in France that is outside Paris is Mont St. Michel. Mont St Michel is an abbey on a rocky island, and it stands alone on the horizon. You can see it for miles as you approach, and it’s really cool when you get your first glimpse.

Visit Normandy Shock #5: Wine Isn’t the Drink of Choice

When we think of France, we think of wine. Surprisingly, the beverage of choice in Normandy is cider. If you want something a little stronger, there is Calvados, or apple brandy. For the kids, there is apple juice. You can find wine, but cider is definitely the local specialty in Normandy.

Visit Normandy Shock #6: Rustic Beauty of Normandy Landscape

If you rent a car to travel around Normandy, you’ll see amazing villages, with manor houses and stonework barns surrounded by nature and wildlife. It’s fun to see the unpolished, rustic version of France, especially in comparison to the polished, sophisticated France we usually think of. It can make you feel like you’ve gone back in time.

Visit Normandy Shock #7: Variety of Things to do Besides D-Day Beaches

Of course, the D-Day beaches are a main attraction for visiting Normandy. But you’ll be shocked at how many other things there are to do in Normandy. In addition to Mont St. Michel, there are cool towns like Rouen, where Monet painted the cathedral.  Or check out Honfleur, to see the fishing villages, or the beaches at Deauville. It’s shocking how much this quiet area of France has to offer.

Watch: What to See & Do in Rouen, France

Visit Normandy Shock #8: Seeing the Bayeaux Tapestry

This is the history of how William the Conqueror became King of England in 1066. The tapestry shows the Battle of Hastings, and shows the history of England over 70 meters. The whole museum is the tapestry wrapping around. The detail of the embroidery is amazing; and depicts battles in graphic detail.

Visit Normandy Shock #9: It’s OK if You Don’t Speak French

French is of course the official language here, and you won’t hear very much English spoken in this area. However, the locals will gladly help you, and they won’t give you a hard time if you don’t speak French. The people of Normandy are shockingly awesome! You might even have a stranger hand you a bottle of Calvados!

Watch: Learn French: Basic French Phrases for Tourists

Visit Normandy Shock #10: How Relaxed You Can Be

Often when you picture a vacation in France, you picture hustle and bustle, surrounded by tour groups, but Normandy isn’t like that. It’s so easy to relax, and much more laid-back than other destinations in France. There are good museums, great food, but most importantly, a very chill vibe that allows you to relax and enjoy your Normandy vacation.

We hope these ten tips help you better understand Norman culture, and lessen the shocks you have when arriving in Normandy. Have you been to Normandy? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit The Vatican

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Ten Things That Will Shock Vatican Visitors

Greetings from St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican! We love to help travelers prepare for their vacations, and other than telling you the best things to do, we love to share the things that will shock you upon arriving in a new destination. Today we’re sharing the top ten travel shocks for Vatican visitors.

Vatican Visitor Shock #1: You Are in Another Country!

When you visit Vatican City, you are entering a new country, so you’ll set foot in two countries in one day. You get two countries for the price of one!

Read: Eleven Things to Know Before You Visit Italy

Vatican Visitor Shock #2: Long Entry Lines

The line to get into the Vatican Museums is insane; up to three hours wait on a busy day. The best thing you can do is pre-book your tickets and/or sign up for a tour that lets you bypass the lines.

Vatican Visitor Shock #3: You Might Actually See the Pope

The Pope has an audience every Wednesday, so it’s possible that you will actually get to see the Pope in person. How cool is that?!

Vatican Visitor Shock #4: Amazing Art Collection

The Vatican Museums hold an impressive art collection, including the Sistine Chapel and some of the best work from Raphael, Michelangelo and others.

Vatican Visitor Shock #5: How Many People Fit in the Sistine Chapel

The amount of people that they squeeze into the Sistine Chapel is shocking. Those long lines all lead inside, and they really pack everyone in so that you can barely move on a crowded day.

Vatican Visitor Shock #6: How Many People Ignore “No Photos” Signs

Photos are not allowed in the Sistine Chapel, yet a shocking number of visitors still take photos even with flash.

Read: Twelve Don’ts of Visiting Italy

Vatican Visitor Shock #7: St. Peter’s is Huge Inside

When you actually go inside St. Peter’s Basilica, it is amazingly huge. The sheer size is shocking, and the interior is beautiful with light streaming through stained glass.

Vatican Visitor Shock #8: Badly Behaved Tourists

It’s shocking to see other travelers touching some of the statues and monuments. Some of the statues have been touched so much that they are disintegrating.

Vatican Visitor Shock #9: You Can Climb the Dome of St. Peter’s

You can actually walk up to the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica and take in an amazing view of Vatican City and surrounding Rome. It’s quite a hike up many stairs, but the view is worth it!

Vatican Visitor Shock #10: The Best Post Office in Italy is in the Vatican City

If you have postcards or things to mail, the best place to mail it is in the post office of Vatican City. They have much better service than anywhere else in Rome, and even seems to arrive sooner than if you mailed it elsewhere.

We hope these ten tips help you prepare to visit Vatican City, and lessen the shocks you have upon arrival. Have you been to Vatican City? We’d love to hear what shocked you; just leave a comment below! For more Wolters World travel tips, check out these blog posts and videos: