Central Europe, Scandinavia & Russia Know Before You Go

A step by step guide to your Trafalgar trip. Your insider’s journey begins…

Thank you for choosing Trafalgar to show you the insider’s view of Central Europe, Russia & Scandinavia. A wealth of experience has taught us that your journey begins well before you leave home. So we have compiled this guide to provide you with as much information as possible to help you prepare for your travels. We look forward to welcoming you on the trip of a lifetime!

Stavangar, Norway

2 Before you go…

Travel Documents Trafalgar’s Express Check-In

A couple of weeks prior to your vacation you will receive your Please register as soon as possible after making

Trafalgar wallet with your travel documents and literature. your booking.

These documents are valuable and contain a wealth of advice By registering with Trafalgar’s Express Check-In, you are and essential information to make your vacation as enjoyable ensuring we receive all the essential information we need to as possible. Please read them carefully before your departure. better anticipate your needs while on your trip. Passports and Visas Other benefits include:

You will require a passport valid for six months beyond the • You won’t be required to show your passport at each hotel conclusion of your trip, with appropriate visas. Some itineraries • Your Travel Director will have all your important may require multiple-entry visas for certain countries. You details immediately must contact your travel agent or applicable government • You’ll receive useful information and tips before you go authorities to get the necessary documentation. It is the sole and compelling offers from our partners responsibility of each guest to have a valid passport and It should take less than 10 minutes to register and you necessary visas, as well as to comply with entry, health or other should have the following information ready: requirements of the countries visited. • Your booking number and last name Travel Insurance • The passport details of everyone on your booking • The emergency contact details of your nominated person Travel insurance is a must have! It is imperative that you take (should an unlikely event arise) out a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers you the entire time you are away from home. Your policy should Please note, if you check in within 15 days of departure, we cover the following: cannot guarantee your Travel Director will receive your details. In this instance, please print your completed registration • Trip cancellation or curtailment form and present it to your Travel Director at the start of your • Loss or damage to property and baggage vacation. All of your details are kept secure. • Loss of cash, traveler’s checks, etc. 1. Go to www.trafalgar.com/express • Medical costs and personal accident Don’t forget to pack a copy of your policy, contact phone 2. Enter your Booking No. and Last Name numbers and instructions on how to claim in the unlikely event 3. Answer all questions and click 'submit' that it is necessary.

Airport Transfers in Europe On many itineraries, we offer complimentary group arrival transfers from the airport to your Trafalgar hotel at set times. (Please check your relevant itinerary page in the brochure for full details). If your flight times do not coincide with the shuttle presents Central Europe, bus transfer timings you may choose and book a private Russia & Scandinavia transfer. It is very important that your travel agent provides us with all your arrival and departure flight details and we must be advised if your flight is changed for any reason. If we are not informed, no refund will be given for the cost of your taxi to the hotel.

3 Luggage anyone unknown to you to carry on board the aircraft. There are strict airport security regulations on items that Luggage Allowance may be carried on board aircraft such as liquids/gels and This is restricted to one large suitcase per metal objects. Please consult your airline or travel agent person with dimensions not exceeding regarding these and other restricted items and how they must 30x18x10” (76x45x25 cm) and a maximum be displayed at airport security checkpoints. We suggest 30” weight of 50 lb (23 kg). Hotel porterage you pack only essential items for daytime use in your hand- of this luggage is included in your baggage, both for your flight and while on the coach. For vacation price. example, your camera, medicines, anything that you use frequently or is particularly valuable. Expensive jewelry, clothing, etc. should be left at home for your peace of mind. 18” Clothing & Footwear Hand Luggage Hand luggage should be one piece per For information on suitable clothing and footwear, please person and small enough to fit under your refer to the listings under each country. However, a general coach seat or on the small overhead shelf tip would be to make sure you bring comfortable walking compartment. This is your responsibility and shoes as a number of cities in Europe are developing as should be carried on/off the coach with you. havens for pedestrians. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the What to Bring overhead compartment of the coach and This will depend upon your personal preferences, where you cannot be accepted as carry-on luggage. are traveling to and the time of year you are traveling. We generally recommend casual, lightweight, drip-dry clothing Your understanding and cooperation is appreciated, particularly that requires little or no ironing. Laundry facilities are available as it is necessary for your safety and comfort. If a second suitcase is at most of the places we stay, however, take sufficient clothing carried, or if it exceeds the permitted weight and /or dimensions, it to last for about a week. Below is a list of items to consider is subject to capacity of the coach and may be declined or incur a packing for your Trafalgar vacation: fee. Please see the full booking terms and conditions on the inside Clothing back cover of the brochure your trip relates to. Swimsuit Undergarments Airlines may have additional restrictions and may impose Sandals Socks additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please Hat Sleepwear contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information Shorts/skirts Jeans/trousers regarding airline’s checked baggage policies. Warm jacket Pullover/cardigan Waterproof jacket Shirts/blouses Please note that airport porterage at the beginning and end of Good walking shoes your guided vacation is not included. Loss or damage to luggage or any of your belongings is at your own risk, so please protect General Items yourself with appropriate insurance. Spare batteries/charger Camera/memory cards Medications Power plug adapters/converter Packing & prescriptions When traveling as a couple, pack each suitcase with day and Toiletries Collapsible umbrella evening clothing for each person, so that in the unlikely event Insect repellent Sunscreen one of your suitcases is mislaid on your flight, you’ll still be Travel sewing kit Pocket calculator able to manage. Plastic bags Travel alarm clock Water bottle Sunglasses Ensure that your personal and vacation details are written on a (screw top lid) label inside each suitcase (including name, address, telephone Sachets of Money belt or holster number, departure and return flight details). Write only your washing powder name and destination address on outside labels. Essentials Make sure that your luggage is in good secure condition, and Passport (& Visas) Travel insurance policy use a TSA approved lock for US security checkpoints. When Trafalgar documents Airline tickets carrying fragile items, use a rigid style suitcase for protection. Credit cards/pre-loaded currency cards Check-in only your own suitcases. Do not carry items packed by other people. Never accept packages or articles from

4 NB Do not pack your passport or money in your suitcase. £30 per day. You should budget for drinks with meals and Tip: Weed out your wallet prior to leaving. Only take the refreshment stops during the day. Non-alcoholic drinks cost essential identifiers like your drivers license and just two credit approximately €2-€3/£1.50-£2.50 each. cards - one to carry, another to be locked in your hotel room safe. Do not carry your social security number on you. Optional Excursions Health Experience has shown us that most guests participate in these excursions and you should therefore budget for them See individual country information for any specific health in advance. Optional excursions are operated by third party requirements or recommendations. If you are on a regular suppliers, but have been approved and endorsed by Trafalgar. course of medication or there are medicines that particularly These may be purchased direct from your Travel Director who suit you, we recommend that you bring an adequate supply will accept payment in cash in most major currencies, such as for your entire trip. Identical brands may not be available US Dollars or Canadian Dollars as well as major credit cards elsewhere, but also bring a copy of your prescription. (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). Full details and prices For easy access when traveling, please keep all your are shown in your itinerary leaflet or on the guided vacation medication in your hand luggage, not in your suitcases. itinerary pages on the Trafalgar website. Carry prescription drugs in their original package to avoid customs questions. We respectfully suggest older passengers Money and those suffering from any existing medical conditions Since 2002, the Euro has been the currency throughout much should have a thorough check-up with their doctor prior to of Europe. Please see the individual listings under each country departure. If you wear eyeglasses, you may wish to bring an for the applicable currency. We strongly recommend that you extra pair or set of contact lenses in your carry-on luggage. buy a small amount of each currency, particularly Euros, before arriving on the continent, since there may be no opportunity to If you have any existing medical conditions, dietary exchange money as you enter a country. This enables you to requirements or disability that should be brought to our make your initial purchases until you manage to get to a bank. attention, it is essential that you inform us via your travel agent. Medical attention can be very expensive outside your It is also possible at some banks and ATMs to draw cash on own country, so be sure to take out adequate insurance. presentation of your credit card, though this may incur fees/ interest payments – check with your bank before departure. It is Vaccinations a good idea to deposit sufficient funds into your accounts prior Please contact your doctor or healthcare provider before to departure and then use your Personal Identification Number traveling to determine which vaccinations are recommended. (PIN) to access them. Check with your bankcard company regarding possible ATM availability. Even if you are planning Make Friends Before You Go to use your credit card, you may also like to arrange a Prepaid When you travel with Trafalgar you will have the opportunity to Currency card before you leave home. These are available in meet new and interesting people from around the world. You Euros, Pounds Sterling and other major currencies and allow can meet up with your fellow traveling companions by visiting you to pre-load any amount you wish. They can be used at Trafalgar’s Online Community. Read posts from fellow travelers ATMs as well as in shops and restaurants across Europe. Further in our Online Forum and register for My Community, your information can be found at www.cashpassport.com private travel group portal. Visit www.trafalgar.com/community Please note that we don't recommend the use of travelers and click on the links at the bottom of the page. checks as these are increasingly difficult to change and often Budgeting incur fees. Trafalgar itineraries include many features that will save you money on your trip – if you study your itinerary pages in the Trafalgar brochure you will see how many highlight visits and other sightseeing is included, as well as meals and entertainment. For personal items such as souvenirs, gifts, taxi fares, laundry and gratuities, we suggest you allow €9-€11 per day in Europe and £8- £10 per day in the UK. In addition, we recommend you budget for the following extra expenses per person: Meals Lunches are usually not included and individual requirements vary, but we suggest you allow €10/£9 per day. Where evening meals are not included, the cost will depend on the type and locations of restaurants used. As a guide, allow €25-€30/£22- 5 Credit Cards If you have a credit card, we strongly recommend that you bring it with you, since this gives you extra financial flexibility while traveling. The major international credit cards, especially Visa or MasterCard, are accepted by many restaurants, shops and hotels. The bill you sign will be made out in much the same way as at home, except that the total will be in the local currency. This will be converted into your home currency by the credit card company and invoiced in the usual way. Here are some further tips on using credit cards while traveling.

• Check the expiry date of your credit card and the amount of credit available to you (do not forget any credit card purchases made just before you leave). • Call your credit card company to advise them you will be traveling, as some companies will block the credit card when they notice unusual charge activity. • Ensure you memorize your Personal Identification Number (PIN); do not write it down.

• Ensure that your credit card is kept in view at all times when paying for goods and services. • Ensure that the total amount of your purchase is entered on the sales voucher in the correct currency before you sign it. • Retain all copies of sales vouchers until you have verified them against your statements. • Insist that all ‘spoiled’ sales vouchers be destroyed in your presence.

• Make sure your credit card is carried on your person. • Never leave your credit card unattended in your hotel room, a vehicle or any other place. • Treat your credit card as you would cash. • Report immediately the loss or theft of your credit card.

Weather

The climate in Europe is moderately continental and humid in the summer. For weather conditions pertinent to your travel schedule, visit these websites: • www.weather.com • www.cnn.com/weather/ • www.bbc.co.uk/weather/world

Mail Prior to departing you should stop your mail or arrange for a neighbor to collect it. A full mailbox can be a treasure trove for hackers and identity thieves.

6 While you are traveling...

see all the main sights in the places visited. Trafalgar ensures you enjoy a full sightseeing experience in all major towns and cities visited on your itinerary. Local sightseeing is conducted by qualified Local Guides who are eager to share their vast knowledge and love of the local history and culture. In other places, your Travel Director will give you a brief orientation drive or walk to familiarize you with the locality, usually on the way to your hotel.

Optional Excursions Most of your sightseeing activities are included in your vacation price. However, there is a wide range of other exciting excursions available, both while traveling and in the gateway cities before and after your trip. To assist you with planning your budget, your travel documents will include a comprehensive day-by-day itinerary with full details and costs of the optional excursions available. Some optional excursions Your Travel Director and Coach Driver cannot be paid by credit card. Your Travel Director will advise Throughout your Trafalgar guided vacation you will you. Please note that optional excursions are operated by be accompanied by a professional Travel Director and third parties and Trafalgar accepts no liability. All optional experienced Coach Driver. A Trafalgar Travel Director is excursions are undertaken at your own risk. more than just a guide. They are seasoned and experienced travelers, specially selected for their in-depth knowledge of Trafalgar Noticeboards the regions you will visit. They will enrich your experience with During your trip, your Travel Director will post a daily notice informative commentary on the history, culture and natural with details of the program schedule. Please check this landscape of the region and reveal the hidden places that only regularly for the most up-to-date information and be ready at an insider would know. They will also introduce you to your the specified times. traveling companions and make you feel welcome. Trafalgar’s Coach Drivers are fully licensed, qualified and experienced Europe is different! professionals who are selected for their impeccable driving Visiting Europe is a totally new and different experience skills and record. from life back home. You will find different people, food and customs and a completely different attitude and way of life. Lost/Damaged Baggage While many of its customs may seem strange to a visitor, they If upon arrival at the airport after your flight, your baggage are, after all, what makes Europe ‘Europe’. So our advice is to fails to arrive or arrives damaged, go immediately to the keep an open mind and enjoy the unfamiliar. airline representative (often situated in the Arrivals Hall before you go through customs) and report your loss/ Hotels damage. They will ask you for the numbered baggage At Trafalgar we pride ourselves on our superior hotel receipts given to you when you checked your baggage in selection. Our hotels are centrally located and close to major for the flight. They will then commence a search for your attractions. As we travel from major cities to remote regions, baggage, and may award you some compensation to buy the standards can vary, but you can rest assured that the essential clothing until your baggage is found. You should hotels we have selected are the best available. also contact your travel insurance assistance company, as they may help with the recovery of the bag and offer some Europe has a tourism industry which has developed over monetary compensation depending on the length of time several centuries and across many different countries, each the baggage remains missing. with its own culture and traditions. The hotels often reflect that, so don’t expect European hotels to be the same as those Your Vacation back home. Not all hotels are air-conditioned, for example, since in parts of Europe the climate does not usually warrant Trafalgar’s philosophy is that it’s your vacation and you should it. All Trafalgar hotel accommodations have private facilities, have the freedom to enjoy yourself as you wish. However, a but again, this will vary. Most bathrooms have a bathtub with great deal of planning goes into your itinerary to ensure you 7 integrated shower, but occasionally only a walk-in shower. made for your laundry with hotel housekeeping (at your cost). Room sizes in Europe, the UK and Ireland are generally smaller Please note laundry services are not available on weekends or than in other parts of the world, and can vary within the same local holidays. hotel, particularly where the hotel is a historic building. Lost Property Twin rooms usually consist of two single beds while double rooms contain one matrimonial bed. Triple rooms may consist Once something is lost it is often difficult to find. Trafalgar of one double-bed and the third bed may be a rollaway bed. cannot accept responsibility for property lost anywhere, Single rooms in European hotels are generally smaller than although we will do our utmost to try and recover lost items. If twin-bedded rooms, and may contain one single bed. you notice the loss while on your trip, you should immediately report it to your Travel Director who will complete a lost You are strongly advised to book all your pre and post trip property form and give you a copy for insurance purposes. hotel accommodations before you travel. In large cities rooms If you wish Trafalgar to trace any lost property for you – once are constantly in demand for tourism and business purposes. your trip has ended – you should contact Trafalgar’s London NB Trafalgar contracted your trip accommodations many Reception Centre or Hotel Service Desk. Any lost property months ago. However, on occasions the hotel may need to found will be returned to you at your own expense. relocate its guests into alternative accommodations. This can happen particularly when special events such as major conferences or exhibitions are taking place. It is beyond Trafalgar’s control, but we will always do our utmost to Your Coach minimize any inconvenience and you can rest assured that all Modern, air-conditioned coaches have been carefully selected sightseeing inclusions will be unchanged. by Trafalgar with your comfort, safety and scenic viewing in Facilities mind. Your Trafalgar team will explain all the safety features of your coach at the beginning of your trip. For the comfort of All hotel rooms are clean and well serviced. Tea and coffee all travelers, Trafalgar enforces a no-alcohol and no-smoking making facilities are provided within most hotels rooms in the policy on board the coach. Our coaches are equipped with UK, however this is uncommon in European hotels. Rooms DVD and/or CD players. usually contain STD/ISD phone and a television, and may have a mini bar, room service and in-house movies. Wherever Please note that antiseptic, bandages and other over-the- possible we select establishments that offer additional counter medications such as aspirin are not carried on the facilities too, such as swimming pool, sauna, restaurants coach. Your Travel Director will be able to direct you as to and bars. Please refer to the itinerary in your travel wallet for where these items may be purchased locally should you information regarding accommodations at each stop. need them. Allocation of rooms Porterage Trafalgar does not allocate the rooms in any hotel – this is Your coach crew is always there to lend a hand and to done by the hotel staff – nor can we guarantee the position of liaise closely with hotels to ensure efficient handling of your room within any hotel. If you are on your guided vacation your luggage. and you feel that you are receiving a disproportionate number Seat Rotation of smaller rooms or rooms without a view, please inform your Travel Director. Where appropriate, our seat rotation scheme ensures you get to know your fellow traveling companions and enjoy the views Hotel Check-in & Check-out from a different vantage point each day. Arrangements are made to ensure that check-in and check- A Clean Coach out at hotels run smoothly, and your Travel Director will advise you in advance of the procedure before arriving at each hotel. Your driver is responsible for the coach inside and out. Please On departing the hotel, always remember to return your room assist by eating and drinking on board as little as possible. key to reception before boarding the coach! No Smoking Personal Hotel Expenses For the comfort of all travelers, smoking is not permitted on Any additional costs incurred during your stay at the hotels board our coaches, but smokers need not worry – frequent (for example, laundry, telephone calls and bar bills) are your comfort and relaxation stops are made along the way. responsibility. Please ensure that your account is settled on Onboard Restroom the evening before you leave to ensure a smooth and speedy Coaches on all itineraries in Europe are equipped with departure the following morning. restrooms. While you are free to use this facility whenever Laundry Facilities required, your Travel Director will suggest that you make use When there is a two-night stopover, arrangements can be of the facilities available at our frequent comfort stops.

8 Meals • We are confident that by the end of your trip you will have come to appreciate the important role your Travel Breakfast Director and Coach Driver have played in giving you Your vacation includes daily breakfasts following local the best possible vacation experience. If you have been traditions. Please note that in London, breakfast is only pleased with their services, you may wish to express this included if you have stayed in the hotel on the preceding satisfaction with a gratuity, as is customary throughout night and booked it through Trafalgar. Check with Trafalgar the world. Since this is a matter of a private and individual in London as to how your breakfast will be served at your nature, you should seal your gratuity in an envelope to London hotel on the morning of your trip departure. present to each of them separately at the end of your vacation. In Britain and Ireland, and on the majority of our Europe itineraries, you will enjoy a cold or hot buffet style breakfast. • Suggested tipping rates (per person traveling) for your Please refer to your itinerary pages in the relevant Trafalgar Trafalgar team in Europe/UK are €4/£3 per day for your brochure for full details. Travel Director, €2.50/£2 per day for your Coach Driver, and €2/£1 per half-day for a Local Guide.

• While on your guided vacation, tips and service charges are included for your included meals, accommodations and porterage, but at other times we suggest the Dinner following as a guide to general tipping practices in Europe/UK: While Trafalgar encourages hotels to provide meals that feature local flavors, most offer fairly plain international fare • Room service waiter: €1/£1 (We recommend that you carry that caters for the broadest range of tastes. If you have a some small change with you, as it is not usual to ask for more adventurous palate, you will still have a number of change when tipping.) opportunities to sample local specialties throughout your • Taxis: 10-15% of the fare on the meter. vacation, either during your free time or on our unique Be My Guest dining experiences and other Highlight • Restaurants & bars: 10-15% of the total bill. If a service dining occasions. charge has already been added, there is no need to tip as much or at all. Freedom at Meal Times Trafalgar’s philosophy of a careful mix of free time and Photography organized activities extends to your meal arrangements, Bring extra batteries and memory cards. Depending on the and only a limited number of lunches are included on our destination, use re-sealable plastic bags to protect camera itineraries. We believe you should be free to spend your time equipment from dampness. Never leave a camera in a hotel at lunch stops in your own way, maybe trying a local dish or room or elsewhere unattended. taking a light snack and using the extra time for additional sightseeing or shopping. Occasionally, our daily itinerary may Staying In Touch require us to make a lunch stop at a recommended roadside eatery. In certain cities, dinners are not included, giving you an Phoning home from hotels can be expensive. All hotels will opportunity to dine out on your own, sample regional dishes add a service charge to the cost of any phone calls you make and eat in typical local restaurants. Your Travel Director will be from your room. This charge can be very high. It is always able to offer advice to help you choose. cheaper for you to use public telephones (pay phones). Your Travel Director will advise you how to use the telephone if you Drinks are unsure. Alternatively, you could use an eKIT phonecard. When not specified on an included meal, drinks are always at your own expense. In some European cafés/bars you pay one What is eKIT? price to drink at the bar, and a higher price to sit at a table. eKIT is your global phone card and web communication service Alcoholic drinks can be much more expensive if purchased in designed to keep you in touch with family and friends while hotel bars. you’re traveling. Water eKIT provides: While tap water is perfectly safe to drink in many European • Low cost international calls countries, we suggest you drink bottled water where available. • Send and receive voice mails You may also wish to carry a small bottle of water with you • Free email service throughout the day to ensure you are sufficiently hydrated. • Send SMS text messages from the web • An online travel vault for secure storage of important Tipping documents (e.g. passport number)

9 • 24-hour customer service. Security For more information check out the Trafalgar eKIT phone card It is important that you take precautions when traveling in your travel wallet or go to www.Trafalgar.eKIT.com anywhere. If hotel security boxes are available then we How do I join? recommend you use them for all your valuables. Do not leave these items in your hotel room. Prior to leaving home, purchase Use your credit card to set up an account at a shoulder or neck holster or a money belt to carry items such www.Trafalgar.eKIT.com or call 24-hour customer service. as your passport or extra money – make sure it is not visible Join before you go and receive a Trafalgar eKIT joining bonus! under your clothing. Be wary of pickpockets! Wallets and How do I use it? purses should be kept out of sight in front/inside pockets; carry Your account number and PIN gives you access to all the your handbags and backpacks around your front. phone and web based services. To make a call, simply use the We also recommend that you photocopy your passport and toll-free access numbers for the country you are in, which you credit card details and leave them in your suitcase in case of will find listed on your eKIT card, or at www.Trafalgar.eKIT.com loss. If you are unsure about security while on vacation, your How long does it last? Travel Director will provide you with the best advice. If you need to make cash withdrawals, ATMs in bank lobbies are less eKIT is a rechargeable service – simply recharge your account vulnerable to devices that capture your credit card information - using your credit card at www.Trafalgar.eKIT.com or call their 24- as they generally have camera surveillance. hour customer service. Ask about the monthly recharge bonus. Doctors Is it competitive? If at any time on your guided vacation you require a doctor, Yes – you may find cheaper phone cards in major cities – but please inform your Travel Director who will arrange this for you can only use them in the country of purchase and may not you. If you are staying at a Trafalgar hotel prior to your guided be in a language you understand. vacation commencing, please ask the hotel concierge to call The advantages of eKIT: the doctor. Ensure that you keep receipts for the doctor’s • It can be used from 70+ countries. visits, medicines and any other expenses incurred, as you will • You can call over 200 countries. need them to claim on your insurance. • You can recharge the card as you travel. • You can use any balance remaining once you get home. Public Holidays and Changes During local or national holidays, certain facilities such as Emailing Home museums, sightseeing tours and shopping may be limited, so Many hotels have wi-fi in the public areas as well as in the we sometimes have to make slight itinerary adjustments. We rooms and there is usually a charge for this. Some hotels also advise you to check with your Travel Agent before selecting a have one or two computers in the reception area for the use departure date so that your enjoyment won’t be diminished. of guests. Internet cafes are also available in many cities. Also, local holidays, closing days and other circumstances may change the day of the week for scheduled dining out, gala Tip: Be careful with hotel computers. Do not access financial dinners, sightseeing and other included activities. data on hotel or public computers or on public wi-fi networks. Guest Feedback Shipping Your feedback is always welcomed. Towards the end of If you plan to purchase heavy items, we would recommend that your trip, your Travel Director will hand out a feedback you have them shipped to your home address, as airline charges questionnaire. We ask that you answer the questions, make are high for excess baggage. This can either be arranged by any relevant comments and hand it back to your Travel the shop where you make your purchases, or you can make up Director. The questionnaires are sealed and returned to our a parcel and ship it home. Our Reception Centre in London can Head Office. Every sheet is read and a summary of each advise you of some companies who specialize in this service. vacation is given to management, and where necessary, Note: appropriate action is taken to rectify any problems. • Goods may take several months to reach your home. • You will be liable for import duty on all goods shipped to your home – personal duty-free allowances only apply to goods carried home personally. • You are strongly advised to insure goods being shipped in case of breakage or non-arrival.

10 Austria Capital: Vienna Population: 8.3 million Location: Central Europe Land area: 83,858km2 (32,378mi2) Language: German Famous for: Apple Strudel, Mozart, Sound of Music

Money Matters Apfelstudel (Apple Strudel) and Sachertorte (a 2-layer chocolate sponge cake with apricot jam in the middle, The currency used is the Euro. Euro coins are issued in 2, 1, covered in dark chocolate icing). Local beers are excellent 50c, 20c, 10c, 5c, 2c, and 1c and notes in 500, 200, 100, and reasonably priced. White wines are popular (Riesling, 50, 20, 10, 5. ATMs are widespread in Austria and are Veltliner), but there are some good red wines. Schnapps liquor called Bankomat. is found in most German speaking countries and is made by Geography distilling various fruits. Austrian water, which comes from the Syrian Alps, tastes mountain-fresh. However, if you come across It is a landlocked country with a major river known as the a sign ‘Kein Trinkwasser’ the water is NOT fit for drinking. Danube. Austria is mainly an alpine country two thirds being mountainous. Best Buys Climate and Clothing Cameras, glassware/crystal, chinaware – Viennese local handicrafts, dirndls (traditional Austrian dress), embroidered The climate in Austria is a moderate continental climate. blouses and lederhosen, woodcarvings, dried flower pictures, Summer days are warm with cooler evenings and winters Viennese petit point, winter sports equipment. are cold. Even in summer you will need a cardigan or jumper for the sudden cooler evenings. Shopping Hours Manners and Customs Shops are generally open Monday-Friday 9am to 6pm. Many shops close at 12 noon or 5pm on Saturdays and Austrians tend to be formal in both their social and business are closed on Sundays. dealings. One should shake hands when greeting or saying goodbye. It is considered impolite to leave a restaurant or Postal Information shop without saying ‘Auf Wiedersehen’ – Goodbye. Tipping is Stamps can be purchased at post offices and tobacconists. not high but widespread. On restaurant bills 10-15% is added, Post boxes are painted yellow. and it is usual to leave only small change. Telephone Food and Drink The country code is +43 (dialling in) and international access Austrian food is distinctive and is traditionally of the stodgy, 00 (dialling out). Telephones are recognised by a sign with a hearty ‘meat and dumplings’ variety. Traditional dishes include black receiver in a yellow circle on the door and the word Wiener schnitzel (veal in breadcrumbs) and Goulash. Many of ‘fernsprecher’. All booths have multilingual instructions. Directory the simpler meals are often made with rice, potatoes and assistance is 118200. Many post offices also have telephones dumplings (Knödel), with delicious sauces. It is renowned for where calls are made and paid for at the counter afterwards. its pastries, desserts and cakes; the most famous ones being eKIT The access number for Austria is 0800-291-018. Public Toilets In general you will need to pay to use a public toilet. Toilets will either be staffed by a toilet assistant or will be ‘slot’ machine operated. Prices range between €0.20 and €1. Toilets may be labelled with symbols of a man and a woman, the initial WC with ‘Damen’ (ladies) and ‘Herren’ (gentlemen).

Salzburg, Austria

11 Belarus Capital: Minsk Population: 9.7 million Location: Eastern Europe Land Area: 207,600km2 (80,154mi2) Language: Belarusian and Russian Famous for: 1991 – USSR was dissolved

Money Matters pancake served with pickled berries). Stews, sausages, bread and vegetables such as cabbage are commonly found on The currency used is the Belarusian ruble (BYR). Bank notes menus. Alcoholic drinks include beer and vodka and non- are issues in 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5000, 1000, 500, 100, 50, alcoholic drinks include herb teas and coffee. Tap water 10 and 5 denominations. There are no coins in circulation. should be filtered and boiled before drinking; we advise There are numerous bureau de change in Belarusian cities to drinking only bottled water. change foreign currency to Belarusian roubles. There should be no problem with exchanging US dollars, Euros and Best Buys Russian roubles. Wooden caskets, trinket boxes, straw items, decorative plates Bank opening hours and other handicraft items are good buys. Typical Russian Monday – Friday 9am to 5.30pm. souvenirs like the wooden matryoshka dolls and original samovars are also available. Antiquities, valuables, works of art Geography and manuscripts other than those offered for sale in souvenir Belarus is a landlocked country bordered by Russia to the shops require an export license. Scarina Avenue is the main northeast, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west and Latvia street in Minsk with antique shops and two department stores. to the northwest. It has large areas of flat land and around Only Belarusian rubles are accepted. However, nearly every 11,000 lakes. shop has a currency exchange counter. Climate and Clothing Shopping Hours Shops are generally open Mondays to Saturdays, 9am to 7pm. The climate is moderately continental and humid with In big cities shops are open daily and many open 24 hours temperatures averaging -6°C (20°F) in January and +18°C a day. (64°F) in July. Medium to heavyweight clothing is required in winter. Waterproofs are advisable throughout the year. Telephone Manners and Customs The country code is +375 (dialling in) and to make international calls (dialling out) it is necessary to dial 8, wait Handshaking is the usual form of greeting. Hospitality is part of for a tone then dial 10. Calls from Belarus to some countries the tradition and people are welcoming and friendly. must be booked through the international operator. Public telephones take phone cards. Grey phone booths are for Food and Drink internal calls and blue ones for international calls. Traditional cuisine includes borscht (a soup made with beetroot, which is served hot with sour cream), dracheny, (a tasty potato dish with mushrooms) and draniki, (a potato

Medieval Castle, Mir

12 Belgium

Capital: Brussels Population: 10.8 million Location: Western Europe Land Area: 30,500km2 (1,783mi2 ) Language: Flemish, French and German Famous for: Chocolates and mussels

Money Matters Food and Drink The currency used is the Euro. Exchange offices are open Mussels and ‘frites’ (French Fries) are the Specialty but other Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 12 noon and 1pm to 5pm. These delicious dishes include ‘waterzooi’ (chicken or seafood offices, together with the banks, give a far better exchange cooked in cream sauce with vegetables), ‘Anguille au vert’ (eel rate than hotels, shops and restaurants. Major credit cards are flavored with sorrel, sage and parsley), and ‘carbonade’ (beef widely accepted. casserole cooked with onions and beer). The best known dessert of Belgian origin must be waffles, but ‘crêpes aux Bank opening hours pommes’ (apple pancakes) are definitely worth trying. Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 12 noon and 2pm to 4pm/5pm; some banks are open 9am to 12 noon on Saturdays. With almost everything the most common drink is Belgian beer of which there are over 500 varieties. The water in Geography Belgium is safe to drink. The majority of West European capitals are within 1,000km (610 miles) of Brussels. Best Buys Lace, glass and crystal ware, pewter, leather goods, antiques Climate and clothing and Belgian chocolates - said to be the best in the world. From the coast inland to Brussels, the Belgian climate is Shopping Hours temperate maritime, similar to south-east England. The Shops are generally open Mondays to Saturdays 9am to 6pm. Ardennes have more continental weather, with warmer Some shops close between 12 noon and 2pm. summers and colder winters. The average temperature is lowest in January at 3°C (37°F) and highest in July at 18°C Postal Information (64°F). Rain can be expected at any time of year and so a Look for the words Postes/Posterijen in shiny white letters on a light raincoat would be very useful. red background. Opening hours are 8am to 5pm or 9am to Manners and Customs 6pm. You may also purchase stamps at many news stands, bookshops, street kiosks and vending machines. Mail boxes Belgians are generally friendly. Muster your school French or are red and are generally wall-mounted. dabble in Dutch and you’ll find locals will appreciate your efforts and respond. On the other hand, it won’t take you Telephone long to meet a resident English-speaker in Brussels’ The country code is +32 (dialling in) and international access cosmopolitan world. 00 (dialling out). Away from the hotels the TT Téléphone- Télégraphe/Telefoon-Telegraaf) office is the place to make international and reverse charge (collect) telephone calls. eKIT The access numbers are Belgium 0800-49943, Brussels economy 02-400-6848 and Nationwide economy 078-160-170. Public Toilets Public conveniences can be found in the larger metro and railway stations, museums and department stores. If there’s an attendant on duty, a few cents’ tip is customary. The rare and less than salubrious street facilities are best avoided. If toilet doors are not marked with the usual silhouettes, you’ll see the inscriptions WC, Toilettes/Toiletten, Dames (ladies) and Messieurs/Heren (gentlemen). Manneken Pis, Brussels

13 Croatia

Capital: Zagreb Population: 4.5 million Location: South East Europe Land Area: 56,542km2 (21,830mi2) Language: Croatian Famous for: Neckties/cravat and Marco Polo

Money Matters cheese filling). Croatian beer (pivo) is of a high quality and of the light lager variety. The regional wines (vino) are good The currency used is the Kuna (kn). It is divided in 100 lipa and cheap. Try Croatia’s favorite brandy sljivovica, made (1 kuna = 100 lipa). Coins are issued in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 from plums or travarica, a herbal brandy. Italian espresso is lipa and 1, 2, and 5 kuna and notes in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, also popular. Mains water is normally chlorinated, and while 500 and 1000 kuna. relatively safe, may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled Bank opening hours water is advisable. Mondays to Fridays 7.30am to 7pm. Best Buys Geography Croata kravata (Croatian cravats – ties), Maraschino (cherry) The vast majority of Adriatic Sea islands lie off the coast liqueur of the Zadar region, Pag island lace is a handcrafted of Croatia; there are approximately 1200 islands. decorative work from the island of Pag, silk embroidery of Konavle and Morcic´ jewelry are the main souvenirs in Rijeka. Climate Tourists can reclaim VAT on expenditure of more than K500. Croatia has a varied climate, with continental climate Ensure all receipts are retained after any purchase is made, conditions (hot summers and cold winters) in the north as the authorities do have the power to fine visitors without and a pleasant Mediterranean climate on the Adriatic relevant documents. This is to prevent VAT evasion coast (hot dry summers and mild winters). by shopkeepers. Shopping Hours Manners and Customs Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 8pm and Saturdays, 8am to 2pm. People normally shake hands upon meeting and leaving. Some shops in cities may now open on Sundays. Smoking is generally acceptable but there are restrictions in public buildings and on public transportation. Postal Information Post offices (posta or HPT) are open Monday to Fridays, Food and Drink 7 or 8am to 7pm and Saturdays, 8am to 1pm. Stamps (marke) There is a varied and distinctive range of cuisine on offer in are also available at news stands. Croatia. The Adriatic coast excels in seafood: Regional dishes include scampi, prstaci (shellfish), and Dalmatian brodet Telephone (mixed fish stewed with rice). Inland look for specialties such The country code is +385 (dialling in) and international access as manistra od bobica (beans and fresh maize soup) or struki is 00. Public telephones use magnetic cards (telekarta), when (baked cheese dumpling). Traditional dishes from the area making long distance and international calls, it’s usually easier around Zagreb include purica z mlincima (turkey with pasta to go to the post office, where you’re assigned a cabin and noodles), and strukli (ravioli-like pasta dough balls with a given the bill afterwards. Useful website www.croatia.hr

Zagreb Cathedral

14 Czech Republic

Capital: Prague Population: 10.5 million Location: Central Europe Land Area: 78,864km2 (30,332mi2) Language: Czech Famous for: Beer and author Franz Kafka

Money Matters side dishes, and are even stuffed with fruit as a dessert. The best-known Czech beer is Pilsner Urquell (Plzensky Prazdroj The currency used is the Czech Koruna (CZK). It is divided into in Czech), which claims the title of the original pilsner beer. 100 haler (1 Koruna = 100 haler). Coins are issued in 50h, 1, 2, Every Czech town of any size will have a brewery; they’re 5, 10, 20 and 50 korun (20 korun is more commonly found as almost all good. Moravia is a wine growing region, and while coins, whereas 50 korun is more common as a banknote) and it may not rank among the world’s best, it is very drinkable notes in 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000 and 5000 korun. and very affordable. Tap water is normally chlorinated, and Bank opening hours while relatively safe, may cause mild stomach upsets. Bottled Generally Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 6pm. Some banks close water is available and advised. early on Fridays. Best Buys Geography Souvenirs include Bohemian glass, Czech crystal and porcelain, It is a landlocked country, with two low-lying river basins beaded jewelry, Czech marionettes and puppets made by surrounded by forest clad hills. With the fall of communism Czech artisans, wooden folk carvings and handmade wooden the local industry has had to adhere to stricter environmental toys. Other special purchases include pottery (particularly from standards. This has improved the state of the rivers and forests. Kolovec and Straznice) and geyser stone carvings from Karlovy Vary, delicate lace and needle embroidery from many Moravian Climate and Clothing towns and blood-red garnets and semi-precious stones The Czech Republic has a moderate climate with great local from Bohemia. diversity throughout the year. Generally winters are cold and Shopping Hours summers mild. The hottest months have the highest level of Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 6pm, Saturdays 8am to 12 noon. rainfall. A raincoat is recommended. The number of shops also open on Sunday is constantly increasing. Manners and Customs Postal Information Dress should be casual but conservative, except at formal Stamps are available from the post office and news stands. dinners and at quality hotels or restaurants. Letters go in the orange post boxes around the city. There is a 24-hour service at the main post office in Prague at 14 Food and Drink Jindrisská Street, Prague 1. Czech cuisine is considered heavy and very filling as meals are mainly meat and starch based. Long and cold winters do not Telephone allow for a variety of fresh vegetables. The meat dishes (beef The country code is +420 (dialling in) and international code is goulash) are commonly served with knedlíky (dumplings), 00 (dialling out). There are public telephone booths, including brambory (potatoes), or rýe (rice). Dumplings are popular special kiosks for international calls. Most of the public telephone boxes take phone cards, which can be purchased at all Telecom points of sale and at newsagent and tobacconist shops. eKIT The access number for Czech Republic is: 800-142-069.

Charles Bridge, Prague

15 Denmark

Capital: Copenhagen Population: 5.5 million Location: Northern Europe Land Area: 43,094km2 (16,638mi2 ) Language: Danish Famous for: Hans Christian Andersen, Lego

Money Matters specialty for lunch is ‘platte’, which is a selection of cold meats and salads or ‘smorrebrod’, a type of open sandwich with The currency used is the Danish Krone (DKK). It is divided into many fillings and pickled herring. A traditional food includes 100 øre (1 Krone = 100 øre). Coins are issued in 25, 50 øre, 1, frikadeller (fried meatballs, often served with potatoes and 2, 5, 10, 20 kroner and notes in 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 kroner. various sorts of gravy) and marinated fish such as herring ATMs are in widespread use. and plaice are also popular. Popular drinks include beer and Bank opening hours aquavit, a local spirit distilled from potatoes or similar starch Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9.30am plants. Tap water in Denmark is safe to drink. to 4.30pm, except Thursdays 9.30am to 5.30pm. Best Buys Geography Porcelain, pottery and glassware. A quarter of the population lives in greater Copenhagen. Shopping Hours Over 20% of electricity is supplied by wind turbines across Mondays to Thursdays, 9.30am or 10am to 5.30pm, Fridays from the country. 9.30am to 7 or 8pm and Saturdays from 9.30am to 4pm. Climate and Clothing Postal Information Denmark has a temperate climate. Cool summer days with Post offices are open from Mondays to Fridays 10am to an average temperature of around 17-23ºC (64- 74ºF) and 5.30pm. When buying postcards from souvenir shops, summer nights are often chilly. A sweater or wrap is essential. you can get the appropriate stamps on the spot. A light overcoat or raincoat is also useful. Telephone Manners and Customs The currency code is +45 (dialling in) and international access The Danes are often frank and informal in their attitudes. 00 (dialling out). In many places there are full automatic phone A smile and a friendly interest should be taken as such and boxes taking 2 x 25 ore, 1 krone or 5 krone coins. Use only nothing more, and a straightforward remark should not be the smallest coins available as the automatic machines do not taken as rudeness. Tipping has almost been abolished and return coins if the number dialled is engaged. Several calls can any tipping should only be as recognition of good service. be made if some credit remains in the telephone. Dress is informal. The smoking ban in Denmark restricts smoking in restaurants to separate smoking rooms. eKIT The access number for Denmark is 8088-1909. Food and Drink Public Toilets Like its Nordic neighbors Finland, Norway, Iceland, and Sweden, Danish cuisine consists mainly of meat and fish. A Indicated by a symbol, alternatively they are marked WD, ‘Toiletter’, ‘Damen/Herrer’ (Ladies/Gentlemen) or just D/H. There is no charge unless marked otherwise. Useful website www.visitdenmark.com

Nyhavn, Copenhagen

16 Estonia

Capital: Tallinn Population: 1.4 million Location: Eastern Europe Land Area: 45,226km2 (17,461mi2) Language: Estonian Famous for: Folk dancing

Money Matters and often the best part of the meal. Local specialties include sült (jellied veal), täidetud vasikarind (roast stuffed shoulder of The currency used is the Kroon (EEK). It is divided into senti veal) and rosolje (vinaigrette with herring and beets). Braised (1 Estonian Kroon – 100 senti). Coins are issued in Kr5 and goose stuffed with apples and plums is also a Baltic Specialty. 1, and 50, 20, 10 and 5 senti and notes in Kr500, 100, 50, 25, The Estonian restaurant scene is now amazingly diverse, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Credit cards are widely accepted and there especially in Tallinn. Produced in Estonia is the sweet liqueur are ATMs in most towns. Vana. It is very strong and is best served in coffee, over ice Geography with milk or, if you feel up to it, in a champagne cocktail called Hammer and Sickle. Some cafes and bars serve tasty, warming Estonia is on the north-eastern edge of the European Union, hõõgvein (mulled wine). Estonian vodka (Viru Valge brand) is bordering Russia and Latvia. The mainland terrain is flat, very fiery! Saku Originaal is the best brand of national beer. boggy, and partly wooded and offshore lie more than 1,500 islands. Best Buys Climate and Clothing Typical Estonian handicrafts include pottery, woollen items and leather goods (purses, wallets and belts). Amber and Estonia’s climate is temperate, with four seasons of near-equal local folk art are good buys, along with the high-quality length. The warmest month is July and the coldest months hand-knitted sweaters, which you see everywhere. As in are January and February. Estonia’s climate is relatively mild other eastern European countries, Soviet and pre-Soviet because of its proximity to water. Even in summer, you should memorabilia, such as coins and medals, are readily available, take along at least a sweater for the cool evenings. as are caviar and vodka. Manners and Customs Shopping Hours Mondays to Fridays, 10am to 6pm, some on Saturdays Handshaking is customary. Normal courtesies should be 10am to 5pm, and department stores from 10am to 8pm. observed. Estonians are proud of their culture and their national heritage, and visitors should take care to respect this Postal Information sense of national identity. Post office hours are Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 7pm, Food and Drink and Saturdays from 9am to 5pm. Fish features on many Estonian menus, with a specialty being Telephone smoked fish, especially trout (suitsukala). Other typical foods The country code is +372 (dialling in) and for international include blood sausages (verivorst) and sauerkraut, which is access (dialling out) dial 8, wait for the long tone and then served in most traditional Estonian restaurants. Black rye dial 00. An English directory enquiries service is available on bread accompanies most meals. Hors d’oeuvres are very good 8 1182. Public telephones, which are plentiful, are operated by phone cards available from kiosks.

Old Tallinn

17 Finland

Capital: Helsinki Population: 5.2 million Location: Northern Europe Land Area: 337,000km2 (30,115mi2) Language: Finnish and Swedish Famous for: Saunas, Lapland, Santa Claus and reindeers

Money Matters liqueurs and ciders are also popular, along with Kahvi (coffee). Tap water is perfectly safe to drink, and restaurants serve The currency of Finland has been the Euro since 2001. ATMs inexpensive mineral water (kivennaisvesi). are widely distributed and credit cards are widely accepted. Postal Information Geography Mailboxes are painted yellow with the traditional post-horn The population is concentrated on the small south western in black. Stamps can be bought at stationery shops, hotels, coastal plain. railway stations and yellow stamp machines. Post office hours Climate and Clothing are from Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 5pm. Finland has a temperate climate. Summers days are generally Best Buys long and sunny, but rarely uncomfortably hot, average Leather goods, fabrics, footwear, furniture, clothing temperature is 21ºC (70ºF). Light clothing is recommended, (particularly sportswear) are recognised for their consistently though sweaters prove useful for chilly evenings. Winters are high quality. A wide variety of glass and ceramics – best known cold and snowy; warm woollen clothing is essential. factories are Arabia (ceramics and china), Nuutajärvi, Littala Manners and Customs and Riihimäki (glass). Shopping Hours A general guideline is that you tip for good service, but it is Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 5/6pm, shops open on Saturdays not expected as hotel and restaurant bills tend to include and close at 1 or 2pm. service charges. Food and Drink Telephone The international country code is +358 (dialling in) and Fish and shellfish are excellent, together with juusto (cheese) international access is 00. and sweets such as Mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie) and Raparperikiisseli (rhubarb pudding). Finnish specialties include eKIT Hernekeitto (pea soup with pieces of pork), Kalakukko (a thick The access number for Finland is 0800-112-010. loaf of rye bread baked with a filling of fish and pork) and Karjalanpiirakka (a thin shell of rye dough filled with rice or potato). Restaurants also serve reindeer and bread is a firm favorite. Finland is traditionally a beer drinking country. Berry

Old Town pier, Helsinki

18 Germany

Capital: Berlin Population: 83 million Location: Central Europe Language: German Land Area: 357,021km2 (138,846mi2) Famous for: The Berlin Wall, OktoberFest, Rhine wines

Money Matters drink is beer - Germany has over 1,200 breweries. In Frankfurt, try the local cider (Apfelwein). Tap water is safe to drink. The currency used is the Euro. Foreign currency can be changed at ordinary banks or savings banks (Sparkasse), and also Best Buys at travel agencies and hotels although at less favourable rates. Clocks, music boxes, beer steins, cameras, porcelain and local Bank opening hours costume items such as lederhosen, dirndls and Tyrolean hats. Mondays to Fridays, 8.30am to 1pm and 2.30pm to 4pm (on Thursdays until 5.30pm). Shopping Hours Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 6.30pm and Saturdays, 9am Geography to 2pm. Germany has several geographical regions including lowlands Postal Information in the north, uplands in central parts and the Black Forest and Bavarian Alps in the south. Open Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 6pm and Saturdays, 8am to 12 noon. They also handle telegrams and telephone calls. Mail Climate boxes are painted yellow with a black post-horn. Post offices in train stations are often open later. Most of Germany has a temperate seasonal climate with hot summer and cold winters. Rain is not uncommon in the Telephone summer so don’t forget an umbrella. The country code is +49 (dialling in) and international access Manners and Customs code is 00. Telephone booths are glass boxes with yellow frames displaying a sign with a black receiver in a yellow While the people are generally friendly a formal culture is square. Calls abroad can be made from booths with a green present. Good manners and being polite when addressing disk marked ‘Ausland’. people is important. Both married and older women are addressed as ‘Frau’. Customs for formal dress are comparable eKIT to Britain. The access numbers are Germany 0800-100-6492, Frankfurt economy 069-6677-75528. Food and Drink Public Toilets You will find pork as a standard item on most menus. It is prepared in many different ways, and just about every part There is usually a charge to use public toilets. Some are of the animal is eaten. Specialties include Rippchen mit staffed; others have a slot machine on the door or at the Sauerkraut (pickled ribs of pork) and Bratwurst (grilled entrance. Have coins ready (10c, 20c or 50c pieces). Toilet sausages) are the most popular snack. For dessert you cannot signs may be a man or woman symbol, the initials ‘WC’, go past the world famous Black Forest Gateau. The national or ‘Herren’ (gentlemen) or ‘Damen’ (ladies).

Berlin, Germany

19 Hungary

Capital: Budapest Population :10.3 million Location: Central Europe Land Area: 93,030km2 (35,919mi2) Language: Hungarian Famous for: Inventions like the Rubik’s cube, ballpoint pen

Money Matters Best Buys The currency used is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Coins are Traditional purchases include embroideries, Herend and issued in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 HUF and notes in notes 200, 500, Zsolnay porcelain, wooden toys and national dolls. Food 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 HUF. products such as caviar and foie gras, and Hungarian wines and spirits are also a good buy. Money can be changed at any Ibusz desk (at airport, hotels, main railway stations and at local offices) and banks. It is Shopping Hours strongly recommended that you change your money before Mondays to Fridays 10am to 6 or 7pm, Saturdays 10am to leaving Hungary. All exchange receipts must be kept and only 1pm. Shopping centers have longer hours and some shops 50% of changed money (up to a maximum of £50) can be re- are open on Sundays. exchanged. ATMs are found in Budapest. Postal Information Bank opening hours Mondays to Thursdays, 8am to 3pm and Fridays, 8am to 1pm. Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 6pm and Saturdays, 8am to 2pm. Post offices handle mail, telephone, telegraph and telex Geography services. Stamps can also be bought at tobacconists or where postcards are sold. Post boxes are painted red and usually A landlocked country. The north-south flowing Duna (Danube) decorated with the postal horn. and Tisza Rivers divide the country into three large regions. Climate and Clothing Telephone The country code is +36 (dialling in) and international access Hungary has a continental climate with cold winters and is 00 (dialling out). Pay phones are usually green and yellow warm to hot summers. Temperatures can fluctuate – average or white aluminium glass-front kiosks. Self-explanatory July temperatures are around 27ºC (81ºF) but the weather instructions are displayed in all phone boxes. International can suddenly change into a very brisk chill, so pack for all calls are best made through the hotel switchboard or at a eventualities and bring a raincoat. Be prepared for snow and post office. The number for directory enquiries in foreign bracing cold in the winter. languages is 172-200. Manners and Customs eKIT The Hungarians are a hospitable people, well-known for their The access number for Hungary are 06800-17053 or informal social life. English is not widely spoken outside cities, 06800-15970. although some knowledge of German is useful. Public Toilets Food and Drink In Budapest, there are public toilets in metro stations, parks, Hungarian dishes are often rich with sour cream, onions, eggs, squares and museums. The toilet sign may say ‘mosdo’ or butter and wine. Dishes are usually flavored with paprika. ‘WC’ (pronounced vay-tsay). If not illustrated by symbols, ‘ferfi’ Specialties include paprikas ponty (carp in paprika sauce), means gentlemen and ‘noi’ means ladies. pisztrang tejszin martasban (trout baked in cream), gulysleves (goulash soup) and of course the famous Hungarian goulash. Sweets are a specialty and who can resist the microscopically thin pastry of retes (strudel) or delicious tortes.

Vegetarian options are limited. Hungary has 20 wine producing regions making a wide range of wines. Famous wines include the sweet white Tokaji Aszú and strong red Bull’s Blood (Egri Bikavér). Tap water is drinkable but it is advisable to drink bottled mineral water.

20 Latvia

Capital: Riga Population: 2.3 million Location: Eastern Europe Land Area: 64,589km2 (24,937mi2) Language: Latvian & Russian Famous for: Amber

Money Matters which is raspberry or cranberry filled pastry strips. Popular local beers include the dark bauskas Tumsais and the pale The currency used is the Latvian Lat (Ls). It is divided Gaisais. Or for something stronger try Riga’s Black Balsam a into Santimi (1 Latvian Lat = 100 santimi). Coins are in thick black alcoholic liquid, which has been produced since denominations of 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 santims and Lats 1700. It is drunk either with coffee or mixed with vodka. Kvass in coins of 2 and 1. Notes are in denominations of Ls500, and sparkling wine are popular and are refreshing summer 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. drinks. Do not drink the tap water. Bank opening hours Shopping Hours In Riga banks should be open between 10am and 5pm. Mondays to Fridays, 9 or 10am to 6 or 7pm and Saturdays, Outside the capital many banks close at 1pm and all banks are 9 or 10am to 4 or 5pm. Some shops may close over lunch, closed on Saturday and Sunday. while others are open 24 hours. Geography Best Buys Latvia lies on the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea between Look for local handicrafts, folk art, brightly colored woollen Estonia and Lithuania. Most of the country is composed of goods, mittens, scarves and sweaters and art objects. Other fertile, low-lying plains, with some hills in the east. typical gifts from the region are belts, purses, book covers, Climate and Clothing wicker work, earthenware and even jackets made from patches of leather sewn together. Riga is considered a fashion center Latvia has a temperate climate. Summer is warm with of eastern Europe, so have a look at the boutiques while you relatively mild weather in spring and autumn. Winter runs from are there. Amber is of high quality and a good buy. November to March and it is cold - expect snow. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year with the heaviest rainfall in Postal Information August. In summer light to medium weight clothing is worn The main post office is at Brivibas bulvaris 19 (open 24 hours). and in winter medium to heavyweights. A raincoat is necessary Post boxes are yellow. General post office opening hours are throughout the year. Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 6pm and Saturdays, 9am to 1pm. Manners and Customs Telephone Handshaking is customary. Normal courtesies should be The country code is +371 (dialling in) and international observed. The Latvians are somewhat reserved and formal, access 00 (dialling out). International calls can be made from but nevertheless very hospitable. They are proud of their telephone booths. Pay phones are operated by phone cards, culture and visitors should take care to respect this sense which are sold at kiosks, in post offices and in some shops. of national identity. Generally, taxi fares and restaurant bills include a tip although it is still customary to give extra for good service. Food and Drink Latvian hors d’oeuvres are delicious and are said to be the best part of the meal. The soups are especially satisfying in winter; try the skabu kapostu zupa (cabbage soup), sweetbread soup with dried fruit or sorrel soup with boiled pork, onions, potatoes and barley. Specialty dishes include kotletes (meat patties), smoked fish and piragi (pastry filled with bacon and onions). For dessert try an Alexander Torte,

21 Liechtenstein

Capital: Vaduz Population: 35,700 Location: Central Europe Land Area: 160km2 (61mi2) Language: German Famous for: Stamps, world’s largest producer of dentures

Money Matters Best Buys The currency is the Swiss Franc (Fr). It is divided into Rappen (1 Watches, cameras, jewelry and stamps, but always compare Swiss Franc – 100 Rappen). prices before buying. Due to low taxes Swiss chocolates are also a good buy. Bank opening hours Mondays to Fridays 8am to 12 noon and 2pm to 4.30pm. Shopping Hours Mondays to Saturdays 9am to 12 noon and 1.30pm to 6.30pm. Geography Along with Uzbekistan, it is one of only two doubly landlocked Postal Information (surrounded only by other landlocked countries) countries in The Principality’s mail and telecommunications are generally the world. It is noted for its fine vineyards. integrated with those of Switzerland although Liechtenstein does produce its own stamps. Post office hours are Mondays Climate and Clothing to Fridays, 8am to 12 noon and 1.30pm to 6.30pm and Liechtenstein has a temperate, alpine climate, with warm, wet Saturdays, 8am to 11am. summers and mild winters. Light to medium weight clothing is needed in summer and warmer heavyweights in winter. Telephone Waterproofs are needed throughout the year. The country code is +423 (dialling in) and international access 00 (dialling out). Simple operating instructions in four Manners and Customs languages, including English are featured on public phones. Has a hereditary constitutional monarchy, dating back to 1719. Handshaking is performed on meeting and parting. Food and Drink Strongly influenced by its Swiss neighbor. Look out for Bündnerfleisch (wafer-thin sliced air-dried beef), Leberspiesschen (skewered liver), Käseknöpfle (small dumplings with cheese) and Rösti (hash brown potatoes). Local and Swiss beers are popular and Vaduzer (red wine) is worth trying and often much better value than imported wines. Tap water is safe to drink.

Vaduz Castle

22 Lithuania

Capital: Vilnius Population: 3.5 million Location: Eastern Europe Land Area: 65,200km2 (25,173mi2) Language: Lithuanian Famous for: Baroque churches

Money Matters Food and Drink The currency used is the Litas (LTL). It is divided into centas Local specialties include skilandis (smoked meat), salti (1 Litas = 100 centas). Coins are in denominations of LTL5, barsciai (cold soup), cepelinai (made from grated potatoes 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 centas. Notes are in with a minced meat filling), vedarai (potato sausage) and denominations of LTL500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. bulviniai blynai (potato pancakes). Smoked eel is a famous Baltic delicacy. Rye bread is eaten every day with breakfast, Bank opening hours lunch and dinner. Local brands of beer and imported drinks Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and some banks are open are popular. A famous Lithuanian spirit is Mead (midus) a Saturday, 9am to 1pm. mild alcoholic beverage made from honey. Water supplies are generally reliable in cities, though it has a high mineral Geography content and can be cloudy. Bottled or filtered water is Fertile central plains are separated by hilly uplands that are preferable for these reasons. If traveling in rural areas, ancient glacial deposits. drink only bottled water. Climate Best Buys Summers are warm and the weather in spring and autumn Amber and Amber jewelry (fossilized tree sap), wood-carvings, relatively mild. Winter can be very cold and heavy snowfall is linen goods and local crafts are good buys. common. Rain is common throughout the year but heaviest Shopping Hours in August. Grocery shops open Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 8pm. Manners and Customs Telephone Handshaking is customary. Normal courtesies should be The country code is +370 (dialling in) and international observed. The Lithuanians are proud of their culture and their access 00 (dialling out). There are two kinds of pay phones: national heritage and visitors should take care to respect this rectangular telephones which take magnetic strip cards sense of national identity. Lithuanians are also known for their and rounded telephones which take chip cards. Phone hospitality and are outgoing by nature. They like to entertain and cards are sold at kiosks and post offices. Plans are be entertained; singing plays a large role in family gatherings. underway to introduce one type of phone card, compatible with both phones.

Vilnius old town Baroque church

23 Luxembourg

Capital: Luxembourg Population: 365,000 Location: Western Europe Land Area: 2585km2 (998mi2) Language: Luxembourgish, French, German Famous for: Michelin-star restaurants, governed by a grand duchy

Money Matters rou tou tou, an unusual vegetable dish made from potatoes and onions. Local cheese or perhaps a pastry such as the The currency used is the Euro. Tarte Aux Quetsches, which is made with small plums, is Bank opening hours often offered as dessert. Locally produced Mosel wines Mondays to Fridays, 8.30pm to 12 noon to 4.30pm. Although come recommended as do local beers (Diekirch, Mousel, or some banks have limited opening hours on Saturdays, most Bofferding), which are brewed without the use of chemical are closed on weekends. additives. Tap water is safe to drink. Geography Best Buys Luxembourg is landlocked and bordered by Belgium, Cast-iron miniature firebacks, called tak, which depict castles France and Germany. A third of the country is made up and coats of arms make interesting souvenirs. There is also of the hills and forests of the Ardennes, while the rest is delicately decorated porcelain, crystal and earthenware wooded farmland. pottery. Villeroy & Boch’s crystal factories in Septfontaines are open to visitors. Climate and Clothing Shopping Hours Luxembourg’s climate is temperate and mild. Summers Mondays 2pm to 6pm; Tuesdays to Saturdays, 9am to 6pm. are generally cool, with a mean temperature of about 63°F (17°C), warmest months from May to September. Winters are Telephone cold but seldom severe, average temperature being about The country code is +352 (dialling in) and international 32°F (0ºC), snow is also possible. access 00 (dialling out) followed by the number for the Manners and Customs country you require, the area code and then the subscriber’s number. Luxembourg may be small in size, but it is a country of eKIT considerable economic power - it should not be thought The access number for Luxembourg is 800-22026. of as part of Belgium, France or Germany. It is a very friendly country and while the locals like to use their foreign Useful website language skills they are also delighted when visitors use the local dialect for phrases of greeting and thanks. Over a third www.lcto.lu of the locals are immigrants, mostly Italians and Portuguese. Restaurant bills generally include a tip, however it is still polite to round up. Food and Drink Many describe the country’s cuisine as a blend of French finesse and German heartiness. Excellent crayfish, pike and trout comes courtesy of the Grand Duchy River and is available in modestly priced restaurants. Local dishes include Judd matt Gaardebounen (smoked collar of pork with broad beans), and Friture de la Moselle (small deep fried river fish). Other specialties include Treiben (black pudding) and sausages served with mash potatoes and horseradish, and delicious Ardennes ham. Frites (the local version of French fried potatoes) can be found everywhere and look out for

24 Netherlands

Capital: Amsterdam Population: 16.6 million Location: Western Europe Land Area: 41,526km2 (6,033mi2) Language: Dutch Famous for: Anne Frank, Vincent Van Gogh, tulips, windmills

Money Matters change and small notes should be left as a tip. The water is safe to drink. The currency used is the Euro and ATMs are widely distributed. Best Buys Geography Delft Blue pottery, national costume dolls, silverware from One fifth of the country is below sea level as a result of Schoonhoven, crystal from Leerdam and diamonds from being reclaimed by the sea. It is generally flat and level Amsterdam. Edam and Gouda cheeses and traditional and is criss-crossed by rivers and canals. wooden clogs are also popular souvenirs. Climate and Clothing Shopping Hours Mondays 11am to 6pm, Tuesdays to Fridays 9am to 6pm, and The Netherlands has a maritime climate. Summers are Saturdays 9am to 5pm. Shopping malls are open on Sunday. generally warm but not extreme. In summer a light sweater or wrap may be needed in the evenings. Winters are fairly cold Post Information and rainfall occurs throughout the year. Pack a raincoat for those spontaneous showers. Post offices are generally open Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 5pm. When buying postcards from stands and souvenir shops, Manners and Customs you can usually get stamps on the spot. Post boxes are either red or red and grey, and are mounted on walls at eye level. The Dutch people are polite and courteous and prefer In Amsterdam they have two slots, one marked ‘Amsterdam’ formal greetings on first meetings. The Dutch are a nation of and the other ‘overige bestemmingen’ (other destinations). cyclists and in Amsterdam 540,000 people have bicycles – not surprising when you consider how flat the land is. The use of Telephone soft drugs is allowed, and even sold at ‘coffee shops’ – in the form of cookies. The country code is +31 (dialling in) and international access 00 (dialling out). Food and Drink eKIT You will find a variety of international food, from ethnic to The access numbers are Netherlands 0800-023-3971, Italian and of course traditional Dutch food. Potatoes feature Amsterdam economy 0207-133-472. prominently in dishes. Local dishes include Poffertjes (small pancakes traditionally served warm with powdered sugar Public Toilets sprinkled on top), Patat (French fries with mayonnaise), Haring There’s a lack of public toilets in Amsterdam. Most department (raw herring fish with raw onions) and Vlaai (pastry with a fruit stores have smart and clean public toilets, usually with an filling). Dutch beers can be very good and are quite strong. attendant on duty. A tip is expected. Bars are open all day and also serve tea and coffee. Only

Tulip field, Amsterdam Delft canal, Delft

25 Norway

Capital: Oslo Population: 4.9 million Location: Northern Europe Land Area: 324,220km2 (125,181m2) Language: Norwegian Famous for: Vikings, cross country skiing

Money Matters Food and Drink The currency used is the Norwegian Krone (Nkr). It is High quality fish, meat and dairy products are easily available divided into øre (1 Norwegian Krone = 100 øre). Coins are in Norway. Norwegian meals are often large with an emphasis in denominations of NOK 20, 10, 5 and 1 and 50 øre. Notes on fish and seafood specialties. A typical specialty is a are in denominations of NOK 1,000, 500, 200, 100 and 50. ‘smørgasbord’ meal, a vast selection of meat, fish, salad, hot dishes, puddings and cheese. Specialty dishes and ingredients Bank opening hours include Lutefisk (a hot, highly flavored cod fish), smoked Mondays to Thursdays 9am to 4pm, Fridays 9am to 5pm salmon, cod, herring, sardine products and mackerel. Popular and Saturdays 9am to 12 noon. meats include reindeer, lamb and fowl. Liquor laws are very Geography strict and in some parts of the country alcohol is not available at all. Where it is available it is very expensive. The water in About two-thirds is made up of mountains, there are Norway is safe to drink. approximately 50,000 islands off its much indented coastline. It has one of the longest coastlines in the world. Best Buys Pottery, sports equipment, enamelled ware, sportswear, Climate and Clothing pewter, silver and knitwear. If you like the unusual, a hand Given the extreme northerly position, the mainland climate painted troll is something to add to your collection. Tax-free in Norway is surprisingly mild. This is mainly because of the is available for tourist from shops displaying a ‘Tax free for trade winds and warm currents. Lightweight clothing generally tourists’ sticker. Tourists save 11-18% of the price paid by suffices in summer, however evenings can get chilly, so it is residents. Refunds are paid in cash at airports, ferries, cruise always a good idea to take along a sweater or wrap. If you ships and border crossings. are here in winter, you will definitely need an overcoat, scarf, Shopping Hours gloves and warm shoes/boots. Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturdays, 9am to 1pm or 3pm. Shops are often open late on Thursdays. Manners and Customs Norwegians are not class conscious and are very polite. Postal Information Handshaking is popular, dress is informal. Tipping is expected Generally open Mondays to Fridays, 8.30am to 4pm and however waiters don’t expect more than 5-10% of the bill. Saturdays, 8am to 1pm. Stamps can also be bought at tobacco Cross country and downhill skiing are popular sports and a shops, kiosks and hotels. Postboxes are painted red. Nordic specialty is ski jumping. In the last 50 years Norway has won more Olympic gold medals in Nordic skiing than any Telephone other country. The country code is +47 (dialling in) and international access 00 (dialling out). The telephone service is operated by the state Telecommunications Service, Televerket. Telephone booths are painted red or grey. For the English speaking operator dial 093. eKIT The access number for Norway is 800-15794. Public Toilets Located at stations, department stores and in some of the squares and parks, may be marked Toaletter, WC, Damer (female) / Herrer (male) or D/H. Useful website Stavanger, Norway www.visitnorway.com 26 Poland

Capital: Warsaw Population: 38 million Location: Central Europe Land Area: 312,658km2 (120,728 mi2) Language: Polish Famous for: Chopin, Andrzej Wajda, Pope John Paul ll

Money Matters sauce. Bread and sausages are also very popular. Faworki pastries (pastry twisters) and chocolates are definitely worth a The official currency is Zloty (PLN), divided into 100 groszy. try. Beer is becoming increasingly popular and of course there Currency may be exchanged at exchange desks in hotels, is vodka, which is served chilled before, during and after meals. banks and kantors (money exchanges). Travelers checks can If you like vodka then try ubrówka (bison vodka). It is advisable generally only be exchanged at banks. Most credit cards are to drink bottled mineral water which is widely available. accepted in tourist areas, however note it is mainly a cash society. It is a good idea to travel with US$ in small denominations. Best Buys Geography Glass and enamel ware, handwoven rugs, silverware and handmade jewelry, dolls in regional costumes, wood carvings It is mostly made up of a flat plain with mountains along the (from Polish mountains), sculptures and traditional ceramics southern border. from Boleslawiec. Try the bazary (market places) for other Climate and Clothing interesting items. Shopping Hours In general Poland has a temperate climate with cold winters In general shops are open from Monday to Friday, 10am and warm summers. In summer light clothing will suffice with to 7pm, and for limited hours on Saturday and Sunday. a cardigan or jumper for the evening. Winters are usually cold with snow in the mountains. Temperatures are often below Postal Information freezing and you should pack woollen garments accordingly. Post office hours are from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, and Manners and Customs some are open until 2pm on Saturday. The Polish are very friendly. Social life is reasonably informal Telephone and casual wear is recommended. Be careful when crossing roads as jay walking is an offence and is punishable with a fine. The country code is +48 (dialling in) and international access Smoking is quite common. Tipping is only really expected in 00 (dialling out). Public telephones take coins and telephone restaurants and is approximately 10-15% of a restaurant bill. cards but are not plentiful. eKIT Food and Drink The access number for Poland is 00800-111-3535. Typical Polish meals are hearty and generally meat based. Local dishes include Bigos (sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, onions Public Toilets and meat), kotlet schabowy (breaded pork cutlet) and klopsiki There are many public toilets in Poland; ladies toilets are (meatloaf with tomato sauce). Poland is also a good country marked by a circle and gents by a triangle. It is most likely that for fish such as carp, which is served in sweet and sour jellied you will have to pay one zloty to use the facilities. Useful website www.polandtour.org

Wawel Castle, Krakow

27 Russia

Capital: Moscow Population: 140 million Location: Northern Asia Land Area: 17,075,200km2 (6,592,768mi2) Language: Russian Famous for: Ballet, vodka, caviar

Money Matters Best Buys The official currency is the Rouble (R). It is divided into Kopeks Traditional matryoshkas (painted wooden dolls within dolls) (1 Rouble = 100 Kopeks). Coins are in issued in RUB 10, 5, 2 and and dymkovskaya igrushka (pottery figurines based on folklore 1, and 50, 10, 5 and 1 kopeks. Notes are issued in RUB 5,000, characters) make excellent souvenirs. Engraved amber, 1,000, 500, 100, 50 and 10. Money may be exchanged at the cameras, vodka, watches and Faberge eggs (although you may currency exchange desk in the hotel. Hours vary from place to have to settle for a reproduction!) are also a good buy. place but they are open longer and are considerably easier to Shopping Hours deal with than banks. You must always have your passport and Tend to vary but usually are Mondays to Saturdays, 9am to 6pm. currency control certificate with you when exchanging money. Most shops close for lunch for an hour. Tourist centers have Only small amounts of money should be changed as most foreign currency shops (berioska) where you can buy a wide purchases are made in hard currency. It is a good idea to travel range of goods for Sterling, dollars or other hard currency at with small denominations of Euro. favourable prices. Bank opening hours Generally from Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. Postal Information Post offices are generally open Mondays to Fridays from 9am Geography to 7pm. Most major hotels have their own post office branch, It is the largest country in the world in terms of land area, but much which sell stamps and accept telegrams. of the country lacks the right soils and climate for agriculture. Telephone Climate and Clothing The country code is +7 (dialling in) and international access Weather conditions are varied due to the size of the country. 810 (dialling out). When dialling the Russian Federation from Summers are generally short and for the most part, comfortably abroad, the 0 of the area code must not be omitted. For warm. In all other seasons you are advised to pack some extra outgoing calls dial 810 followed by the relevant country code jumpers or cardigans as it is cold. (e.g. 81061 for Australia). Long distance calls may be made from your hotel and it is best that these are booked in advance. It is Manners and Customs not possible to reverse the charges for calls from Russia. Russians have a strong cultural history of literature (Tolstoy, eKIT Chekhov, Dostoevsky), ballet and music. It is customary to shake The access number for Russia is 8-10- 800-2174-1012. hands when greeting someone. To avoid pick pocketing it is best to keep jewelry, watches and cameras out of sight. A 10% Public Toilets tipping policy should be adhered to. Doors are usually marked M for men and X for ladies, or may Food and Drink also be advertised by the letters WC. Public toilets may be in short supply, so try places like McDonalds which are free of Specialties include traditional borscht soup (beetroot soup charge. It is advisable to carry packs of tissues in case no toilet served with sour cream), beef stroganov (creamy beef stew), paper is available. pelmeni (meat dumplings) and kasha for breakfast (porridge). Russians have a very sweet tooth so try their desserts, especially ponchiki (hot sugared doughnuts). Vodka is popular and is often served straight or can be flavored with herbs and spices such as zubrovka (a variety of grass) and pertsovka (hot pepper). There is also nalivka which is a sweet liqueur made from fruits. We recommend that you only drink bottled mineral water, which is always the carbonated variety.

28 Slovenia

Capital: Ljubljana Population: 2 million Location: Central Europe Land Area: 20,273km2 (7,827mi2) Language: Slovenian Famous for: Mountain sports, Lake Bled

Money Matters Food and Drink The currency used is the Euro. Major credit cards are accepted Slovenian food definitely has a German influence with at upmarket establishments, however cash is mainly preferred. sauerkraut, sausage and apple strudel generally appearing on Travelers checks are accepted however they should be in menus. Breads are another popular accompaniment; try the currencies such as Euros, US dollars or Pounds Sterling. strukli (stuffed with meat or vegetables) or a dessert called potica and there is the ever popular goulash. White wines Bank opening hours such as Laski and Renski Rizling or red karstteran are popular. Mondays to Fridays, 8.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 5pm. Slovenian beer is also excellent. Tap water is considered safe Some are open Saturdays, 8.30am to 11am. and drinkable, however we advise you stick to bottled water. Geography Best Buys It has a short coastal strip on the Adriatic, an alpine mountain Local gifts include crystal glass, bobbin lace and Specialty wines. region adjacent to Italy and Austria, mixed mountains and valleys with numerous rivers to the east. Forest covers 57% of Shopping Hours its land area. Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 7pm. Some shops are open on Saturday mornings. Climate and Clothing Slovenia generally has a continental climate with warm Postal Information summers and cold winters and a Mediterranean climate on Post offices are generally open from Mondays to Fridays, 8am the coast. We suggest medium weight clothing and heavy to 6pm, and Saturdays, 8am to 12 noon. Stamps can also be overcoats in winter and light weight clothing and raincoats for bought at bookstalls. the summer. Telephone Manners and Customs The country code is +386 (dialling in) and international Slovenes are generally very friendly and shaking hands is the access 00 (dialling out). Calls can be made with magnetic normal form of greeting. Usual European social conventions phone cards. apply and informal dress is widely acceptable. It is customary to give a 10% tip in hotels, restaurants and for taxis.

Ljubljana Castle, Ljubljana Lake Bled

29 Sweden

Capital: Stockholm Population: 9 million Location: Northern Europe Land Area: 449,964km2 (173,732mi2) Language: Swedish Famous for: Ikea, ABBA, Volvo and Saab

Money Matters pea soup or ärtsoppa (yellow peas and pork) served with thin pancakes (pannkakor), pickled wild strawberries and The currency is the Swedish Krona (SKR). It is divided into cloudberries unique to Scandinavia. Coffee and milk are very Ore (1 Krona – 100 Ore). Travelers checks are generally only popular, along with lager. Aquavit is the local spirit, usually accepted at exchange bureaux. ATMs are in widespread use. drunk chilled. Wines and spirits are very expensive. The water Bank opening hours is safe to drink. Mondays to Fridays, 9.30am to 6pm. Best Buys Geography Sweden is renowned for its quality modern designs. Glassware and crystal, jewelry, silver and pottery. Women’s Sweden is mostly flat and has gently rolling lowlands with and children’s clothes are also good buys. Nordic sweaters mountains in the west. are a Specialty. Climate and Clothing Shopping Hours In general Sweden’s climate is of a temperate nature. Summer Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 5pm, and Saturdays, 9am to 1pm. weather is warm with low humidity and winters especially in the north are very cold. Summer evenings can be a bit cool, so Postal Information we suggest packing a sweater. Post boxes are yellow in Sweden. Stamps and aerograms are also on sale at most bookstalls and at stationers. Manners and Customs Swedes are very environmentally aware and recycling is Telephone very popular. Midsummer is always celebrated – maypoles, The country code is +46 (dialling in) and international garlands, flowerdecked houses, dancing and special access 00 (dialling out). Phones are conveniently located in midsummer dishes typify this popular festival. glass-enclosed sidewalk stalls and in ‘Tele’ offices. Dialling instructions are in Swedish and English. Food and Drink Swedish food was made famous by the Smörgåsbord, the eKIT The access numbers are Sweden 0200-888-074, Stockholm Scandinavian cold buffet. A seemingly endless array of economy 08-5069-2159. delicacies from a number of herring dishes (sweet-pickled herring, pickled herring with onions), Swedish meatballs Public Toilets (köttbullar), smoked salmon, pies, salads, eggs, bread, boiled and fried potatoes and so on. Other dishes to look out for are Located in underground (subway) stations, department stores gravlax (salmon that has been specially prepared), traditional and some of the bigger streets, squares and parks. They are often labelled with symbols for men and women, or marked WC, Damer (ladies) or Herrer (gentlemen) or simply D/H. Some have slots for coins or an attendant to give towels and soap (for a small charge), but most are free and tips are not usually expected. Useful website www.visitsweden.com

Royal Palace, Stockholm

30 Switzerland

Capital: Bern Population: 7.5 million Location: Central Europe Land Area: 41,290km2 (15,942mi2) Language: Swiss German, French and Italian Famous for: Clocks, watches, Swiss army knives, chocolates, banking

Money Matters Fondue and Raclette (cheese dipping dishes), sausages and Rösti (fried potato), Bündnerfleisch (air-dried beef) and The currency used is the Swiss Franc (CHF). It is divided into Fondue Bourguigon (cubes of steak with various sauces). Swiss rappen (1 Swiss Franc = 100 rappen). Many prices may also pastries and desserts are excellent. A great variety of Swiss be displayed in Euro. Major credit cards are widely accepted wines are available throughout the country. There are also and ATMs are widespread. Exchange offices are situated at spirits made from fruit; the most popular are Kirsch, Pflümli airports and large railway stations. and Williamine. The water in Switzerland is safe to drink. Bank opening hours Generally open Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 12.30 noon Best Buys and 1.30pm to 4.30pm. Watches, clocks and cuckoo clocks, chocolate, music boxes and Swiss army knives. Geography Shopping Hours It is a landlocked country, has the highest elevations in the Usually Tuesdays to Fridays, 9am to 6pm (closed two Alps and 70% of the country is made up of mountains. hours for lunch); shops are closed on Monday mornings Climate and Clothing and opening hours vary on Saturdays. The climate varies with elevation. The temperature is Postal Information moderate with no real extremes of hot and cold. Summer Post offices are easily recognised by their distinctive sign is warm lasting from about June to September. It is best to showing a white cross on a red background and the letters be prepared for every eventuality and pack a warm sweater PTT. All offices handle telephone calls and stamps are also and raincoat. dispensed from vending machines outside. Swiss post boxes Manners and Customs are yellow. Post office hours are Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 12 noon and 2pm to 6.30pm, and Saturdays 7.30am to 11am. Etiquette and social customs are very formal. Swiss Germans tend to be extremely polite and hard working. Tips are Telephones generally included in the bills but you can add a small The country code is +41 (dialling in) and international access tip if the service was very good. Make sure you greet a 00 (dialling out). Complete and simple operating instructions shopkeeper when entering a store. in four languages, including English, are posted on all Food and Drink public telephones. eKIT French, German and Italian influences prevail in the regions The access numbers are Switzerland 0800-562-733, Zurich where those languages are spoken. Specialty dishes include economy 44-580-4354, nationwide economy 0842-000-004. Public Toilets There are clean, conveniently located public toilets across Switzerland. Look out for the sign ‘Toiletten’ or ‘WC’. You will also find ‘Damen’ or ‘Frauen’ for ladies’ toilets, and ‘Herren’ and ‘Männer’ for men’s toilets. Useful website www.myswitzerland.com

Matterhorn, Zermatt

31 Austria Austria Austria Austria

Rathstrasse 54 A - 1190 Wien Neustift am Walde Web: www.dasschreiberhaus.at Web: www.schreiberhaus-catering.at Salzburg, Austria Germany

ZIKO’s GRILL We guaranteeZIKO’s you an unforgettableGRILL evening Wein guarantee Berlin with you excellent an unforgettable food and music.evening in BerlinZiko’s with Grill excellent Inh. Lj. Milosavljevic, food and music. Kaiser-Friedrich-StrassZiko’s Grill 61A, Inh. 10627 Lj. Milosavljevic, Berlin-Charlottenburg Kaiser-Friedrich-StrassTel: 030-323 70 61A, 53 10627 Fax: 030-323 Berlin-Charlottenburg 77 53 Tel: 030-323 70 53 Fax: 030-323 77 53

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...cuckoo clocks, glassblower‘s workshop in the Black Forest

from Drubba family with compliments

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Gassan Diamonds, a family owned company, is located in a formerly steam driven diamond 7 days a week factory in the centre of Amsterdam. The company still concentrates primarily on diamond cutting, wholesaling and retailing in set diamonds, loose polished diamonds, gold jewellery and watches. Gassan Diamonds has a unique position within the diamond industry by introducing a new cut, the Gassan 121. Gassan Diamonds offers free guided tours in 27 languages, a own mooringsite, coffeeshop and a Diamondland boutique with a large collection fashion jewellery and brilliant souvenirs.

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45 Switzerland

2132 possibilities above sea level

113617_PIL_INS_90x240_Zahnrad_e_RZ1.indd 1 21.12.11 15:45