Why I Chose a Topdeck Tour

2015 was a year of many firsts for me. Having started the year with a bang, my 18th and skydiving from 14000ft, I felt compelled to continue the year at the same pace. I'd long suffered from a major case of wanderlust and I thought there'd be no better way to quench that thirst, than a 49 day tour across Europe. Insert the Topdeck Mega European! I'm frequently asked about my experience, so I thought I'd share it with you all here. So, here is 7 frequent questions I'm asked about my Topdeck Tour:

1. Why I did I choose Topdeck?

After researching a lot of different companies like Topdeck, as well as, hop on-off buses and even solo train travel, I decided that Topdeck would be the one for me. I found they were reviewed to have less alcohol consumption than other similar companies, which was great for teetotaller like me! Other tours seemed focused on getting wasted every night and feeling sorry for yourself the next morning... No thanks. They included more extras and options for travellers, which was great because it's not hard to overlook some really amazing things when on the road for 49 days. I liked that all accommodation and travel was pre-planned... Imagine trying to book 20+ hotels across Europe! More value for money... I was on a tight budget, but really wanted to explore all of Europe. With Topdeck, they included over half my meals, had at least one free activity in each town and all for a very decent price. $6500 for my 49 day tour ( excluding optional extras).

In the end my main reason for choosing Topdeck was because I was a young, solo and a female traveller... I was quite clueless when it came to travelling. Topdeck was a great introduction and allowed me to meet up with other travellers, who later became some of my best friends!

2. What tour did you go on?

I chose the 49 day Mega European. I had limited funds and time, but a major case of Wanderlust! The 49 day tour allowed me to sample many of Europe's best countries in a relatively short amount of time.

3. How did you feel about being stuck on a bus for 49 days?

I honestly didn't mind. Sure, there were people who annoyed the crap out of me and there were times I wish I could just get off the bus.. But the majority of the time it was fine. I listened to music and read up about the next town. Be aware, there will be a couple of 10 hour or more bus days, but don't worry, you'll be so worn out from exploring the previous town, you'll sleep majority of the trip!

4. Were there many solo travellers?

Honestly yes. I wouldn't put it at quite 50/50, but there was a lot! Everyone on my group was so easy to talk to and they were all more than happy to let me tag along with them for the day. So if you're worried about travelling solo, fear not!

5. How much spending money did you take?

For my 3 month holiday I took $2500... It was a tight budget and I did have to watch what I spent, but I did everything I wanted to. I ate all the best street food and went to all the local attractions, plus, a couple of big splurges.

6. What was your favourite Country or town?

This question is completely dependent on the person, however these were my favourites! (Excluding London and Paris)

- Italy! We visited Verona, Venice, Pisa, Florence, Orvieto and Rome. There wasn't a town I didn't fall in love with. The history, the culture, the people and the food was what made Italy so special for me.

- Plitvice Lakes, Croatia. I've visited a fair few national parks in my life, but nothing compares to the beauty of this one! The colour of the water and plants was so vivid, that even photos didn't do it justice. Even after a hip replacement I walked 17km!

Switzerland- The small towns and giant mountains! I loved the buildings in Interlaken, I felt as though I should be rugged up in front of a wood fire. I also loved how beautiful the snow on the mountains were.

Turkey- I feel in love with Turkey in less than 10 minutes. The people were so friendly, Istanbul so full of character and culture, and let's not forget history! There is something for everyone here... I personally loved the mosques and markets. But you can also experience a Turkish bath or visited the many museums or archeological sites.

( other honourable mentions include: Prague, the city of a thousand spires. Absolutely beautiful to wander around! Amsterdam, from innocent bike rides to the red light district, a sure eye opener.. And Barcelona, Park Güell is somewhere I could sit for days!)

7. Would you do it again?

Yes! Why not? I'll admit you do feel a little sight-seen out towards the end of your tour, but every second is absolutely amazing! You're able to tick off many bucket list items, as well as many other amazing sights. I had the time of my life on this tour and would do it again in a heart beat! Feel free to ask me any other questions you have about Topdeck in the comments!

Titanium Tip: Don't be disappointed when you don't get a stamp in your passport at every border. I ended up with a few, but definitely not as many as I thought.