This is a list of ideas and supports we used to facilitate more efficient travel and, in essence, made our lives much easier.
- Guides: Accurate, up-front information and research online is essential to a trip like this for me! I downloaded to the i-pad Triposo Apps for each of the cities we visited. I also used Fodor Madrid/Lisbon iBooks in the planning which served us well. We also used audio guides at several attractions which were very helpful. However, I have to say that my most valued tips were from a couple of Rick Steves videos for Madrid and Portugal, such as the tapas scene and Museo del Jamon in Madrid and the Gulbenkian in Lisbon.
- Passes: In Madrid we purchased Paseo del Arts passes that enabled quick entry to Madrid’s three big art galleries. In Lisbon we purchased Lisboa Cards (1 each) which enabled unlimited use of public transport for above and below ground and free or discounted access to multiple attractions (from a list), quicker lines, and easy access. They were very good value for our busy trip and easy to use.
- Money: Always let your card company know you are traveling before leaving so they know the card may be used abroad. They may close it otherwise, suspecting fraudulent activity. Further, order foreign cash at your bank before you depart, as last minute attempts to purchase currency risk amounts not being available. We took pounds and euros, and used affiliate banks to withdraw euros while in Europe. We secured, through our choice of traveler’s credit card, medical insurance while abroad and felt very safe.
- Packing: We traveled in an incredibly light manner. Small knapsack each. Although space was limited, our ability to move around the city (and especially through airports and customs) was greatly improved. No checked luggage- this is key! It pays to be less occupied with fashion and more in tune with comfort (Although we did meet a pair of travelers two days in a row and Janie was slightly amused or perhaps embarrassed to be wearing the SAME shirt!). Further, don’t screw with the airlines… make sure you’re following the latest security procedures. A comfortable, tried pair of shoes is essential (we literally walked miles in some of the art galleries let alone in city streets).
- Booking Accommodations: We booked everything online, well in advance. We looked for several specific things; A/ Reasonable price, B/ proximity to railway station, major transportation links, and attractions, C/ an included breakfast, and D/ free wireless. Knowing what you are looking for helps as the choices in this tourist rich market are endless.
- Organization: Create for yourself a log book to warehouse your important travel documents. My book had an itinerary, budget, checklist, attraction and ticket confirmation numbers, copy of passports, reservations, specific maps as well as on site information to support visits (ie: Items we wanted to see). We made our train ticket reservations/purchases early to ensure sleeper car access. With our trusty book we always look and feel very organized.
- Communication: We trekked with an i-Pad and i-Phone this trip… used face time, internet, social media and email with family at home. And yes… it was all free as we selected accommodations with free wireless!!! Further, the i-Pad was a storage space for copies of important documents (should the worst occur) and I used it daily and during travel to make the notes I used to inform this website.
- Food and Eating: Our budget requires that we avoid most “fine dining” options (not so comfy eating posh in jeans and t-shirts anyway). Accommodations covered most of our breakfast requirements. We found, during this excursion, that we probably ate at pubs / bars more than usual. The tapas eating was worth the cost… we were cool with that! We got to sample, and very much appreciated the service we received.
- Transportation: Having a handle on transport is essential when visiting over a 9 day March Break. We closely followed train and airline schedules, and had accurate schedules for public transport options in each of these cities. Our friends at Air Canada were tardy at Pearson and we were delayed several hours Saturday night. However, we got home safely which was really the only concern. As a final word of advice, travel light, have travel information ready, follow security procedures, and don’t panic… things you have control of will fall into place.