Any help for a 'planning international travel' virgin

[Spaceflower]

I have traveled abroad before, though both times it was mostly organised by an institution/company. This summer I want to organise a short trip to Amsterdam. Does anyone have any pointers as to how I go about doing this and are there any pitfalls or unexpected problems to watch out for? Also advice on getting the best deal would be grateful. I will be booking hotels, travel, etc separately.

 

[lemonic]

If you want to travel to Amsterdam by train+ferry, there is a very good value ticket called the Dutchflyer which covers travel from any National Express East Anglia station to Harwich, the ferry from Harwich to Hoek van Holland and onward travel to any station in the Netherlands. This can be purchased online here http://www.stenaline.co.uk/ferry/rail-and-sail/holland/

You will also probably find the website www.seat61.com useful.

(BTW I am assuming you are travelling by train here, not flying.)

 

[WestCoast]

The Netherlands is a fantastic place IMO, most people speak good English and you will feel welcome. If you've never really had much experience with international travel, it's ideal and any of the EU countries are. Since you are treated pretty much as a citizen of that country and have rights/protection.

Well, if you are travelling by train in the Netherlands use this site...

www.ns.nl/en

It will give you times and fares. Tickets for trains in the Netherlands are much simpler than the UK, advance fares don't really exist and a single or a day return is pretty much the only options. There is a tutorial on how to use the simple TVMs. Very refreshing in my opinion!
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I notice your location is Durham.

There are several ferry options easier than getting down to Harwich in Essex.

DFDS Seaways sail from Newcastle Port to Amsterdam Port. www.dfdsseaways.co.uk for times & offers, plus you can book online.

If your flying there - KLM fly from Durham Tees Valley and Newcastle, although they are pricey. Jet2 offer cheap flights from Leeds/Bradford although that may be too far.

As for hotels - try www.Hotwire.co.uk - they offer brilliant rates if you are willing to book a "secret hotel" that is revealed after you book, subject to the star rating you book.

Also for named hotels try www.travelsupermarket.com/c/hotels/ - it compares prices from a variety of websites to get you a cheap deal.

If you need any more help, just ask! I will be happy to respond.

 

[185]

ICEC to London - Eurostar to Brussels - Thalys to Amsterdam would be the expected route but there are many other combinations using local trains.

Also, a Eurostar ticket London to Brussels Midi can be used with SNCB trains to any station in Belgium after arrival at Midi station.

WWW.DB.DE has a reasonably good journey planner which I use a lot whilst away.

The Thomas Cook Rail Map of Europe is a good £8 purchase to inspire you with ideas.

 

[lemonic]

Also, a Eurostar ticket London to Brussels Midi can be used with SNCB trains to any station in Belgium after arrival at Midi station.

Not any more. Tickets have to be to 'Any Belgian Station' now and cost a few pounds more if you want to go to any station in Belgium instead of just to Brussels.

 

[185]

Drat. That had been in place for ages too.