Transport
Choosing a night-train seat, couchette or sleeper
A simple guide to overnight comfort in Central Europe, including shared cabins and the costs beyond the ticket.
Article reviewed 8 Sep 2026
Travel writer and destination journalist
William Bernard
William Bernard writes about European destinations, rail and overland routes, and the costs and connections involved in planning an independent trip. He is based in Lisbon, Portugal.
- Based in
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Languages
- English, Portuguese, Spanish
Background
Before becoming a travel writer, William spent six years in logistics and supply-chain analysis in Manchester. A three-month trip through the Balkans led him to investigate an outdated bus timetable in Bosnia and publish the corrected route information.
Over the following decade, he travelled through Europe and Southeast Asia, often returning to the same regions in different seasons. His destination research includes Portugal, Spain, Italy and the Balkans.
What he covers
- European rail and overland travel
- Trip budgets
- Destination planning
- Transport logistics
- Slow travel
How he approaches a guide
William looks at how the whole trip fits together: stations, connections, booking choices, daily costs and seasonal changes. His guides favour time in fewer places and routes that avoid unnecessary backtracking. Prices and schedules can change, so readers should check the sources and review dates beside the relevant information.
Guides by William Bernard
Accommodation
Hostel private room or budget hotel?
Compare a hostel’s private room with a simple hotel using bathroom access, kitchen facilities, noise and the total price for your group.
Article reviewed 8 Sep 2026
Budget Strategy
Tallinn, Riga or Vilnius: choose the Baltic break that suits you
Compare the walks, museums, arrival points and pace of Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius before choosing one city or linking all three.
Article reviewed 13 Sep 2026
Visas & Entry
Liechtenstein borders: Swiss customs and Schengen travel
A clear visitor guide to Liechtenstein's Swiss customs union, the difference between goods rules and Schengen entry, and receipts and declaration basics.
Article reviewed 13 Sep 2026
Food & Dining
Simple foods to try in Puglia
Use bakeries for an easy lunch and make time for a few regional dishes without expecting the same menu across Puglia.
Article reviewed 11 Sep 2026
Transport
Berlin transport zones: AB, ABC, BER and 2026 fares
Choose AB for trips within Berlin or ABC for BER Airport and Potsdam, then compare single, four-trip and 24-hour tickets using current 2026 fares.
Article reviewed 21 Sep 2026
Budget Strategy
When refundable travel bookings are worth the extra cost
Compare the cost of flexibility with what you could lose, and learn to distinguish a cancellation deadline from your rights when a service is disrupted.
Article reviewed 8 Sep 2026
Budget Strategy
Choosing a SIM or eSIM for Europe
Compare phone-data plans by countries, validity and actual needs, with dated Airalo and Orange examples and practical checks before installation.
Article reviewed 8 Sep 2026
Budget Strategy
Comparing travel costs across Europe
Use countries as a starting point, then compare the actual cities, dates and style of trip you are considering.
Article reviewed 8 Sep 2026
Budget Strategy
Georgia or Armenia for your first visit
Choose a manageable route through Georgia or Armenia based on scenery, city time, transport and the season, rather than a blanket price comparison.
Article reviewed 20 Sep 2026
Transport
Norway by Train: Booking Oslo, Bergen and Flåm
Choose the right trains for Oslo, Bergen and Flåm, with clear advice on Myrdal changes, fjord cruises, overnight stops and ticket conditions.
Article reviewed 14 Sep 2026
Visas & Entry
Nicosia and Ledra Street: Planning a Green Line Crossing
Prepare for a walking visit across the Green Line in Nicosia, with document checks, arrival choices and a complete day plan if you prefer not to cross.
Article reviewed 13 Sep 2026