This page gives a few general hints and tips about traveling in Europe.

This basic advice should be commonsense, but nonetheless, needs to be considered before you take a trip.

If you live in the UK or other country that drives on the left, take special care when turning at junctions or leaving service areas and car parks.

If you are in a right-hand drive car, overtaking will be more difficult because of limited vision. It's also worth bearing in mind that different cultures have different driving habits. get used to the local 'rules' for overtaking or other manoeuvres in order to avoid road rage!

In most European countries the Drink Driving limits are stricter than in the UK. Remember that you may be hot and tired on holiday ... And the effects of cumulative drinking throughout the day (by the pool?) can have a dramatic effect on your abilities behind the wheel.

The wearing of seatbelts is compulsory throughout Europe - Failure to abide by this, and other laws, can and will result in on the spot fines.

Speed limits are policed vigorously in many parts of Europe with radar traps in operation.

In France, anyone caught traveling at more than 25km/h above the speed limit can have their licence confiscated on the spot!

It is rumoured that there are only two motorway patrol bikes in the whole of France. Apparently they use secret hidden tunnels so they can ride up and down appearing at different places - thus making you think that there's more of them! (OK - it is only a rumour!) <<<<< A clever photo of Gendarme patrol bikes, presumably taken with the use of mirrors if the rumours are to be believed!

It's also worth noting that in many countries you must carry your driving documents with you at all times. You must also carry sufficient cash/cards to pay for any fine or risk losing your car on the spot.

Traffic police are MUCH more vigilant when it comes to the Highway Code especially Stop signs - you have been warned!