How To Stay Safe On Your European Business Trip

EHIC Card Renewal 

There's nothing like the life of an international business person, jet-setting to a plethora of countries and cultures on a daily basis and collecting your frequent flyer miles. It looks like its all fun and games in films like 'Up In The Air', but in reality, travelling for business can be an absolute pain. We've compiled a few top tips to make arranging your trip a little less stressful.

Passport

This will seem like a no-brainer, but frankly, you won't get very far without it, so check it, double-check it, and make sure it has at least six months to go and at least two blank pages. It's also useful to leave a photocopy behind with a friend, spouse or administrative assistant in the off chance anything should go wrong.

Health

Mainland European countries always have a different water system than you may be used to and often have different standards when it comes to cleanliness. So make sure you take a few precautions to prevent you from feeling ill. Even if the locals tell you it is OK, never drink the water. While German water is just fine from the tap, your body isn't used to the different mineral content. So, even if you don't have a problem with microbes, you could still have an upset stomach. Keep free or reduced medical bills in mind when renewing your EHIC card just in case you should become sick. You should also avoid raw and uncooked foods like vegetables, meat or fish. Wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitiser or carry a pack of wet wipes to cleanse your seating area on the airplane or surfaces in the hotel room.

Electrical Adaptors

Being able to charge devices while on a business trip is critical. Because electrical outlets and currents vary, it's important to have the appropriate adaptors. Every year, thousands of guests turn up at hotels and assume that their hotel will provide all the necessary adaptors. Remember what Samuel L Jackson said about assumptions? Do your research and find out what adaptors you need long before you go, and don't leave it until you get to the airport before buying one, unless you're willing to pay a lot more.

Local Culture

Somewhere down the line you will inevitably have to make small talk with a local, be it the taxi driver who picks you up from the airport or the hotel receptionist when you check in. Take the time to brush up on the culture, their customs and even the latest news, it will help you to have a little knowledge about them. It's also polite to pick up a few basics phrases from their language, nobody's expecting you to be fluent, but "hello", "please" and "thank you" would be good manners, and manners go a long way.

Enjoy

Most importantly make the most of it. There are many people who rarely get to travel outside of their hometown, let alone their country, and they would kill for the chance to visit other countries. Yes you're there on business, but there's nothing wrong with enjoying your time there and having some time to yourself.