Tuesday 24 July 2012

RANDOM TRAVEL TIPS

On the assumption that you are about to leave the country here are a few thoughts.
1. Best High St exchange rate is Debenhams rather than M and S.
2. Buy pharmaceuticals and toiletries here. Ibuprofen 33p Superdrug , £8 in Venice.
3. Some shops and restaurants give you the option of paying by card in pounds rather than euros or dollars.Don't do it. It seems sensible but the catch is that the vendor will convert into local currency at a rate of their choosing which will not be favourable. Pay in euros or whatever and you get the mainstream bank exchange rate which is better for you.
4.If off to Paris on the beloved Eurostar you can buy French Metro  tickets with English money or euros at St Pancras customer services on the right after security. Do it. The queues to buy at Gare Du Nord are long and some dubious types lurk there.
5.If taking a taxi from Gare Du Nord ignore the taxi sign telling you to go right .Instead , turn left and exit the station via the enormous glass doors near platform 16. There is a rank opposite without any queues.
6. Dont drink a flagon of red wine in Provence all by yourself. It will scar you for life.