Preparation for the group workshop

Here is a well-organised list of things to consider when travelling to Paris:

1. Money:
   The French currency is the Euro (€), the same as in the Netherlands. Card payments are possible everywhere, including contactless payments. ATMs are easy to find, and there are usually no extra charges for cash withdrawals with a Dutch bank card.
2. Sockets:
   France uses the same sockets as the Netherlands (type C and E). So you do not need an adapter.
3. Water:
   Tap water in Paris is safe to drink. However, many people prefer bottled water because of its taste.
4. Time zone:
   Paris is in the same time zone as the Netherlands: Central European Time (CET) and Central European Summer Time (CEST) in summer.
5. Public transport:
   The metro network is extensive and fast. You can buy tickets separately or use a navigation map such as the Navigo. RER trains connect the suburbs to the centre and are handy for trips to places like Versailles and Disneyland Paris.
6. Traffic:
   Paris can be hectic with traffic, especially scooters often riding on pavements.
7. Language:
   French is the official language. In tourist areas, people sometimes speak English, but basic French is often appreciated.
8. Climate:
   Paris has a temperate climate. Summers can be hot, while winters are cool and humid. Bring an umbrella, especially in spring and autumn.
9. Healthcare:
   The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) gives you access to French healthcare. Check with your insurer that everything is properly covered.
10. Telephony and internet:
    Roaming charges within the EU are the same as in the Netherlands, so you can use your phone at no extra cost. Free wifi is available in many cafes, restaurants and public areas.

Here is a well-organised list of things to consider when travelling to Prague:

1. Money:
   Czech crown (CZK). View the current exchange rate here. Many places accept credit cards and contactless payments, but cash is still common, especially in smaller shops and markets. ATMs are available everywhere, but be aware of exchange rates and possible transaction fees.
2. Sockets:
   The Czech Republic uses the same sockets as the Netherlands (type C and E). You do not need an adapter for your Dutch devices.
3. Water:
   Prague's tap water is safe to drink, but many people opt for bottled water because of its taste.
4. Time zone:
   Prague is in the same time zone as the Netherlands: Central European Time (CET) and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during the summer months.
5. Public transport:
   Prague has an excellent public transport system. You can use metro, tram and bus with one ticket. Make sure you buy a ticket before boarding. Day passes and multi-day passes are available.
6. Traffic:
   Prague has many car-free streets and squares, especially in the historic centre.
7. Language:
   Czech is the official language. In tourist areas, people often speak basic English, but learning a few Czech phrases can make your stay easier.
8. Climate:
   Prague has a continental climate. Summers are hot and winters are cold, with regular snow.
9. Healthcare:
   The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) gives you access to Czech healthcare. Check with your insurer what exactly is covered.
10. Telephony and internet:
    Within the EU, the same rates apply for mobile usage, so you can use your Dutch SIM card at no extra cost. Free wifi is available in many cafés, hotels and public areas.

Here is a well-organised list of things a Dutch person should consider when travelling to Zurich:

1. Money:
   Swiss franc (CHF). View the current exchange rate here. Some places accept euros, but the exchange rate is often unfavourable. Credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted, but cash is also widely used. ATMs are easy to find. Note the exchange rate and any transaction fees for exchanging to Swiss francs.
2. Sockets:
   Switzerland uses type J sockets, which differ from Dutch ones (type C and F). The voltage is 230V, the same as in the Netherlands, but you will need an adapter for your Dutch appliances.
3. Water:
   Tap water in Zurich is safe to drink and of excellent quality. You can even find drinking fountains throughout the city.
4. Time zone:
   Zurich is in the same time zone as the Netherlands: Central European Time (CET) and Central European Summer Time (CEST) in summer.
5. Public transport:
   Public transport in Zurich is reliable and efficient. You can use a single ticket or a Zurich Card for unlimited travel and access to certain attractions.
   Taxis are available, but public transport is usually faster and cheaper.
6. Traffic:
   Especially in Zurich's Old Town, there are many car-free zones.
7. Language:
   German is the official language in Zurich. Many Swiss also speak English, especially in tourist areas. However, the local dialect, Swiss German, can be difficult to understand.
8. Climate:
   Zurich has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. In winter, it is wise to bring warm clothes as it can snow.
9. Healthcare:
   The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows you to access necessary medical care. Switzerland is not an EU member, but has agreements with the EU on the EHIC.
10. Telephony and internet:
    Note that Switzerland is not part of the EU, so roaming charges may be higher than in EU countries. Check with your provider for rates. Free wifi is available in many cafés, hotels and public areas, but bear in mind that access is limited in some places.