Do you have a trip to Europe on your bucket list? Have you been asked by your manager to make a business trip to Europe to meet with a prospect, client, vendor or remote office? If this is your first opportunity to travel to Europe, you’re in for a treat. Like with any undertaking, advance planning is often the key to a successful outcome. Follow these basic recommendations from the professional travel agents and travel gurus to ensure your trip is a huge success.

The first step in planning any trips out of the country is to check the expiration date on your passport. Many European countries will not allow entry if there are not at least ninety days remaining on your passport prior to expiration after the date of departure on your return ticket. Allow at least two to three months to process applications for passport renewal and new passport applications. This can be longer during the months leading up to the busy travel season. Appointments to submit applications and the necessary paperwork can be made at your local post office. Pay special attention to the document requirements for minors under the age of 18.

Take the time to order Euros from your local bank branch. It may take up to two weeks for them to arrive for pick up. While you can certainly exchange dollars for Euros upon arrival in your European country of choice, exchange rates will be more favorable at your local branch than in kiosks located in airports and train stations in Europe. Know that many smaller establishments in Europe do not accept credit cards. Europe is still much more of a cash economy than the United States.

Finally, book your flights and hotel accommodations at your earliest possibility. The earlier you book the great the selection will be and you’ll have increased chances of securing discounts. Check out the awesome deals offered by Groupon coupons and enjoy reduced rates for both package pricing and individual flight rates from the experts at Priceline.

Pack comfortable walking shoes. Most European countries are designed for pedestrian traffic and exploring on foot is truly the best way to take in the sights, sounds, people and joys of smaller, family dining establishments.