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Home/Blogs/Australian Teachers/Travel Smart in Europe

Travel Smart in Europe

For many of the teachers we help, heading to the UK to teach is their first trip overseas or at least to destinations in Europe. Living and working in the UK has been a right of passage for Canadian, Aussie and NZ teachers for decades. Basing yourself in England and working as a teacher offers you secure employment and lots of travel time to explore Europe.

Traveling alone in the UK and Europe is a fantastic experience, but safety is essential, especially for solo travellers.

Here are some tailored tips for Aussie, NZ and Canadians heading to Europe, so you can stay safe and experience an amazing adventure:

  1. Research Your Destination
  • Understand Local Laws & Customs: Each European country has its own rules and norms. For example, some places have strict drug and alcohol laws, and in others, you may encounter more conservative customs around dress.
  • Check Travel Warnings: Visit Smart Traveller for the latest travel advice, including any risks related to political events, health alerts, or security concerns in specific areas. You can access a subscription service which gives you push notifications on alerts and updates for places you are travelling in and there is an URGENT HELP link on the website for urgent support for Aussies. In Canada you can access advice through Travel.gc.ca. In New Zealand use the Safe travel website. These sites allow you to register and share your travel plans, which is fantastic in a natural disaster or if you go missing for any reason.
  1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
  • Avoid High-Risk Areas: Research any neighbourhoods with high crime rates, especially in major cities. Avoid poorly lit or isolated areas, especially at night. Do some research and avoid dangerous spots.
  • Be Aware of Pickpockets: Cities like Barcelona, Paris, and Rome are notorious for pickpockets. Keep your valuables close and use a secure bag with anti-theft features if possible. There are many ways pick pocketers target people. Here are some of the most common scams and how to outsmart the thieves. The best thing you can do is keep your phone and wallet close to your body and not in easy to access backpacks or pockets or your hand.

  1. Keep Essentials Handy
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is a must. Choose one that covers medical emergencies, theft, and cancellations. Check your insurance fully covers you for all medical scenarios including for the need to repatriate you for medical reasons or death with unlimited or very high amounts. You will need to make sure your insurance covers all activities you undertake and for current medical issues you have. You also need to make sure you are not travelling to places where your insurance is currently null and void due to political unrest or natural disasters. Check out our article on travel insurance while you are in the UK and abroad.
  • Emergency Contacts: Save local emergency numbers, the Australian consulate details for each country you visit, and keep a backup of important documents like your passport and travel insurance.
  • Backup Finances: Keep some cash and a secondary credit or debit card in a different location in case your wallet is lost or stolen.
  • Copies- Make sure you have colour copies of your ID documents in case you lose or have them stolen. Email yourself copies so you can access them when needed.

  1. Secure Accommodation
  • Choose Reputable Places: Use well-reviewed accommodations from trusted platforms. Look for options with good security measures, especially if you’re staying in hostels or Airbnbs.
  • Share Your Location: Inform someone you trust about where you’re staying, and if possible, use tracking apps like Google Maps or Apple’s Find My Friends.
  1. Stay Connected
  • Get a SIM Card or eSIM: Having mobile data helps you navigate, access translation apps, and call for help if necessary. Consider getting a local SIM or using an international data plan. There are cheap sims you can buy and use for your trips to Europe which will be cheap and easy to set up. Sim Corner has reviewed many options. We are not affiliated.
  • Connect with Fellow Travelers: Platforms like Meetup or Couchsurfing (for meeting locals only, not staying) can be good ways to connect safely with other travellers or expats, providing social interaction and safety in numbers when exploring.
  1. Blend In
  • Dress and Act Like a Local: Avoid standing out as a tourist. Try not to carry large cameras around your neck or have guidebooks open in busy areas, which can make you an easy target.
  • Know a Few Key Phrases: Learning basic phrases in the local language can be helpful for asking directions or getting assistance.
  1. Be Mindful of Transportation
  • Avoid Unmarked Taxis: Only use official taxi services or apps like Uber where available. Unlicensed taxis can be risky.
  • Plan Late-Night Travel: If you’re out late, check public transport schedules or arrange a safe ride home in advance. It is always best to have a friend to go out at night with and keep your wits about you and don’t overdo it at the bar/ club especially if you are alone.
  1. Stay Safe When Socializing
  • Watch Your Drink: Be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers and keep an eye on your own drink in bars and clubs to avoid potential drink-spiking incidents.
  • Don’t Overshare: Avoid discussing personal information like your travel itinerary or accommodations with people you’ve just met.

  1. Trust Your Instincts
  • Follow Your Gut: If a situation or person feels off, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the area. It’s always better to be cautious than regretful. That might be crossing a road, walking into a shop if you don’t like who is behind you or spending more on a taxi rather than walking through a dodgy park at night.

  1. Know Your Rights and Resources
  • Embassies and Consulates: Familiarize yourself with where the nearest embassy or consulate is located in each country.
  • Medical Assistance: Know that European countries often have emergency numbers (e.g., 112 for the EU), and access to healthcare may vary. Your travel insurance should provide you with emergency assistance contacts as well.

Bonus Tip: Stay Flexible

  • Have Backup Plans: If a destination becomes unsafe, consider alternative cities or routes. Always check local news and travel advisories while on the road.
  • Check in regularly with at least one person, so they can confirm your trip is on track and you are well.

With a bit of caution and preparation, solo travel in Europe can be safe, fun, and incredibly rewarding! We help teachers from all over the world find a great job in England and tick off their travel bucket list.

Click here to make contact and talk to a teacher Consultant from Teach in.

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