8. Tolls
If you want to drive through Western Europe, be prepared to pay as much in highway tolls as you would on your car rental – if not more. And if you happen to enter Switzerland from the south, you will be forced to pay to use both their highway system and a tunnel that they decided to carve through the Alps. This privilege will set you back about $100. I suggest you bring lube if you decide to venture into Switzerland.
7. Pedestrian Rights
In Belgium, a driver will throw himself on the proverbial sword to allow a pedestrian to cross anywhere he pleases. In France, a driver will attempt to stop at a crosswalk if he so happens to be looking in front of him at that particular moment. In England, drivers aim for you, hoping to blame your death on your continental bias. There is no continuity. Cross with care. And a crucifix.
6. Speed Limits
The German autobahn is clearly the most famous of all European highway experiences. Not to be entirely outdone, the French allow limits of up to 130km/h, which is quite respectable. Furthermore, the French post their speed limits in front of every highway entrance and exit in huge red text. In Italy, you won’t find a single speed limit sign. But there are speed cameras every mile or so. Seriously…
5. Single Lane Dual Carriageways
Due to the age of many European towns and villages, many are not able to accommodate modern vehicles. Nevertheless, this doesn’t impede local traffic whatsoever. The first one through is, well, the first one through. A winning strategy is to turn off your lights at night so as to be able to see oncoming traffic from a reasonable distance. Surprisingly, not a single dead body was visible anywhere.
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So true – I’m experiencing the thrills of most of these on the road in Europe just now.