- Plan your exit from a city upon arrival. Check the departure times and platforms for the trains going to your next destination. Make a reservation if necessary, or book a couchette if taking a night train. It is very unpleasant to check out of your room planning to take a night train and find that there are no more couchettes, or that there is no space at all.

- Buy a phone card if necessary - they’re usually available from tobacco or newspaper kiosks. There’s more on phone cards in Chapter 10, “Communications.”

- Hit the tourist office for maps, the dates of any festivals or events coining up in the local area, and any places in the city to avoid after dark (or altogether).