An expert on cruise ships has highlighted three major errors that Americans often commit when traveling to Europe.
When vacationing, especially on a cruise that offers a chance to visit multiple new destinations, it’s natural to want the best experience possible.
While one cruise enthusiast has shared certain guest behaviors that she finds off-putting, another seasoned traveler offers valuable insights for those venturing to Europe.
This advice comes from Matt Hochberg, a devoted Royal Caribbean fan and seasoned cruiser.
Matt is a member of Royal Caribbean’s Pinnacle Club, a prestigious loyalty program that reflects his extensive cruising experience.
Beginning his cruise adventures over ten years ago, Matt’s passion led him to create the Royal Caribbean Blog and a YouTube channel to provide tips and stories from his journeys.
This summer marked Matt’s inaugural cruise voyage in Europe.
After spending two weeks on the cruise and additional time in London, Paris, and Denmark, he has compiled advice to help fellow Americans avoid common pitfalls.
One major mistake is failing to learn basic greetings in the local language.
According to Matt, fluency isn’t required, but knowing how to say basic phrases like ‘hi,’ ‘thank you,’ or ‘goodbye’ can be very beneficial.
In places like France and Spain, even a simple ‘bonjour’ or ‘hola’ is valued.
“They do respect that,” Matt stated.
This effort demonstrates respect and helps dispel the image of the demanding tourist who assumes everyone speaks English.
Another frequent misstep revolves around being overly selective about food choices, Matt cautions.
While there’s comfort in familiar dishes, experiencing local cuisine is a key travel enjoyment.
Matt notes that European cities offer a variety of international foods like burgers and pizza, but experimenting with local fare can enhance your trip.
If uncertain about what to try, consult the staff for a mild local dish recommendation—they’re usually eager to assist.
One significant issue could complicate your vacation.
Many travelers err by arriving just before the cruise and leaving immediately afterward.
However, in Europe, it’s beneficial to plan extra days before or after the cruise.
Matt suggests that arriving early helps in acclimating to the time zone and experiencing the departure city, while staying later allows for further exploration without the stress of a rushed departure.
This approach also maximizes your airfare investment, which often constitutes a significant part of the trip’s expense.