Here are a few interesting facts about the Waldensian christians of Northern Italy.

1.) A lineage tracing back to the early church 

While it’s popular today to believe that the Waldensians only go back to the time of Peter Waldo in the 12th Century, it has been well proven from many historically sound sources that the Waldensians can trace their roots back to at least the to the 4th century when they split off from the Roman church after the election of Pope Silvester (A.D. 285-335). Reinerius Saccho, (c. A. D. 1250) who was involved in the inquisition, wrote against these early christians saying that they were one of the most dangerous of heretics. 

One of the reasons he stated for their great danger to the papacy was due to their very long existence. He writes the fact that is was stated by some that they had “endured from the time of Pope Sylvester; others from the time of the Apostles.”1 Even their enemies were of the opinion that they had existed back to a very ancient time.

2.) Missionaries sent to as far away as Latvia! 

It is documented that the Waldensians sent missionaries to nearly every country in Europe. They always sent missionaries two-by-two with one older man teaching and training the younger in missionary labors. Here’s a list of some of the countries they entered into, Italy, France, German, Spain, England, Scotland, Czech Republic, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Bulgaria, Turkey, and Croatia. Places like Latvia are almost 2000km (1200 miles) from the Western Alps where the Waldensians most famously called home.

3.) They possessed the Bible in the spoken tongue long before the Reformation 

The Waldensians greatly valued the Bible. They early translated the Scriptures into the language of the people. Additionally they committed large passages of the Word of God to memory. Not only the missionaries and preachers, but even the women would memorize whole chapters and books of the Bible! They were really people who loved to live by the Book! 

In those days though there were no printing presses so the Waldensians needed to copy the sacred passages by hand. As the missionaries traveled throughout Europe they would hide a few pages of the scripture sewn inside their clothes. Then they would present these valuable treasures to those who they met who were interested in the truth. Often these passages were copied down from the memory of these faithful servants of God. After all it was very dangerous to have portions of the Bible in the language of the people.

4.) Their missionaries often traveled disguised as merchants 

Traveling openly as missionaries or preachers would have called down the wrath of the local priests and bishops. So often the missionaries would travel as tradesmen or merchants, selling valuable goods that could not often be found on the normal markets. This gave them entrance to may a place where the would have otherwise not been able to enter. 

Others from among them would enter into the universities of Europe and enroll in a course of study. Through this they were able to mingle with other students and spread the gospel seed! 

5.) Thousands of them were put to death for their faith

Many of these faithful Christians were put to death and their lands and possessions confiscated by their enemies only because they refused to bend the knee to Rome and sacrifice conscience and go along with the crowd. Often those who were sent to persecute the Waldensians were criminals promised absolution (forgiveness of sins) for taking part in these crusades against these true Christians. 

How these people were treated is almost beyond description. They were thrown off of cliffs, impaled with spears, burned at the stake, tortured by inquisitors, or forced to march hundreds of kilometers through the snow in the winter. Worse than this their children were often kidnapped and taken away to Catholic monasteries never to be seen by their parents again.

6.) They defended themselves agains huge armies 

Owing to their position in the Alps of North-western Italy the Waldensians were able to defend themselves quite well against large invading armies. Often a handful of men were able to hold off thousands. God provided for them a fortress in the alps. Even at times it is recorded that God intervened in miraculous ways to defend His people from almost certain destruction. 

7.) These Early Christians welcomed the Reformation 

After so many years of Papal supremacy in Europe, finally, the seed which had been sown by the Waldensians Christians brought forth fruit in the Protestant Reformation. The Protestants were surprised to find these faithful people who had held out so long in such great spiritual darkness. The Waldensians were also surprised and overjoyed to hear about how much of Europe was awakening to the truths found in God’s word. It was not long before these two groups began to exchange and share in their common love of the truth. The Waldensians even help to finance a translation of the Bible into French in collaboration with the Reformers. 

Saccho, Contra Waldenses, found in Maxima Bibliotheca Veterum Patrum, vol. 25, p. 264

Planning an upcoming trip? But worried that you will forget something important? Well we have put together a few things that can be useful when traveling to have along with you.

1.) Rain Jacket

Unless you know for sure that it won’t be cold, rainy or windy where you are going it’s probably good to have a rain jacket, poncho or windbreaker with you just to keep your spirits up should the weather turn sour. It doesn’t need to be anything special, just the more compact the better, so that you don’t lose much space in your bags.

2.) Adapter for Electronic Devices

Traveling to a foreign country? Make sure that you have an adapter for your electronic devices otherwise you may end up with a dead battery. They aren’t expensive and there are even universal adapters that work with any plug. Better purchase these adapters before your trip or else you may end up paying more than you wanted to when buying one at the airport. 

(NOTE: Make sure to check your electronic devices to make sure that they will work in your destination country. Different countries have different voltage, and you can end up with your electric gadgets getting fried.)

3.) Power Bank

Almost as important as an adapter is a power bank. More than ever we are dependent on our portable devices to perform a whole slew of tasks. Nothing worse than traveling in a foreign country and needing to use google maps on your phone to get somewhere and you only have 1% battery life. Talk about unneeded stress. 

Power banks really aren’t that expensive and don’t take up that much space. Just make sure that you do your research because not all of them have the same amount of charging capacity. 

(Note: Make sure that you charge your power bank regularly after use, otherwise you’ll end up kicking yourself when you have a dead phone and a dead power bank.)

4.) Small backpack O

ften we need just a small bag to carry our water bottles or rain jacket. A small backpack won’t cost much and will be well worth the space it takes up in your suitcase. Just make sure to find one that isn’t too bulky. 

5.) Hand Sanitizer/Wipes 

Pretty self-explanatory. Buses, planes, terminals, taxis, etc., are not always the cleanest place. Who knows who touched that armrest last?

6.) Basic First Aid Kit 

At least a few band-aids in your wallet would be good, but a small first aid-kit would be better. Doesn’t take up much space and you are ready for any minor injuries that come your way. 

7.) Plastic Bags or Ziplock Bags or Both 

Just trust us on this one. These super cheap travel items come in handy in many ways. You can use them to separate dirty laundry from the clean, collect sea shells on the beach, or use them as a trash bags for take-out containers. Also, it’s not a bad idea to put your shampoo in a plastic bag just in case… You never want to end up at your final destination with everything full of soap. 

8.) Sunscreen & a hat 

Even if you don’t usually wear these things on a normal basis, it can be important to have them for your health. Remember you are on vacation. Your schedule might be a little jumbled up, and you might end up standing out in the sun right at the hottest part of the day (10:00am - 2:00pm). Believe us, your skin will thank you.

For sure there are other necessary items to bring with you on your trip, but hopefully this helps you get started! Happy Traveling!

So you are traveling again, and you are trying (unsuccessful) to get your suitcase closed. What things do you really need on your trip abroad, and what things can you leave at home? Well there is no clear cut answer for everything, because every trip is different. Going to be hiking and sleeping in a tent on your trip? Then you probably need different gear and clothing than if you are staying in a 4 star hotel in Venice.

So while we can’t give you all the answers, here are a few suggestions of things NOT to bring:

1.) Books & Magazines

Who doesn’t like a good book, or two… or three. Yet how often have you traveled and not even opened up one of the books you brought. Try to limit how many you take with you to the bare minimum, like maybe one, unless you are really an avid reader on your vacations. Books end up taking not only a lot of space, but they add a lot of weight to your luggage too.

If you really need to bring more books, consider bringing a Kindle, Nook, or other e-Reader. This can really cut down on how much weight you have and you can download more books than you could ever read in your week of vacation.

2.) Five Pairs of Shoes

Often we pack things “just in case” and most of the time never end up using them. This is often the case with shoes. Do you really need hikers? Or will you be fine with a normal pair of sneakers? Try to bring shoes you have that are more versatile.

Maybe try waterproofing your sneakers instead of packing sneakers and rain boots, unless you plan to be walking through lots of puddles. Try in general to try to limit the shoes you bring to two, or maximum three pairs. You’ll save space and weight in your luggage.

(Note: also don’t take new shoes that you haven’t broken in. You’ll most likely end up with blisters on your feet.)

3.) Ten Outfits

Worried that you won’t have enough clothes? What happens if a shirt or pair of pants gets dirty? What about if your skirt rips? Too often we plan for the “what if” that never happens. You can always wash your clothes in the sink if you need to and hang them up to dry. If a pair of clothes rips or tears, then unless you are deep in the bush in Kenya you can probably find somewhere to buy a new article of clothing

Some people can get by with just three outfits, others need five but just test and see what things you can cut out. Also try to cut down on bulky items such as jeans if you need to pack more outfits for some reason. Going to Morocco then you probably don’t need a rain jacket. Hiking and camping in the Alps in the summer, yes make sure you have a warmer jacket just in case.

4.) At Towel

Most hotels, Airbnb rentals and friends have towels that you can use. Maybe you need one for going to the beach, but only if you really plan on swimming. Towels though, often take up a lot of space that could be used for other things that you won’t find so easily. In a pinch you can use a tshirt if you really don’t have anything else (as long as you don’t have too long of hair to wash), or for a few dollars you can buy a cheap towel to use on the trip.

5.) Expensive Things

It may go without saying, but keep the expensive and breakable things at home. You never know if you’ll lose a suitcase on your way to your destination. And you’ll end up worrying more about your things than focusing on your trip and enjoying yourself. 

For sure there are other things that you should refrain for packing, but that will depend on you. Maybe you don’t think you’ll ever be able to travel with just a 45L backpack, but at least maybe you won’t have to sit on your suitcase to get it zipped closed.

Let’s see some of the best ways to pay for things in a European country without getting burned on the on fees and bad exchange rates. (Some of these principles will apply to other countries as well)

For starters though most countries in the west and center of Europe use the Euro. This makes things easy for traveling between these countries because you won’t need to change money every time you cross a border

But then, the UK uses the British Pound, Switzerland uses the Swiss franc, and then most of the Nordic and Eastern European countries also use their own currency. (This is just so you are aware and aren’t surprised when you drive from Austria to Czech Republic and find out that you cannot pay in Euros.

1.) Currency Exchange Booths

While this might be a convenient way to exchange your cash into a foreign currency, beware, the exchange rate they offer is usually low and you can end up losing a lot of money that you would like to use on your trip. Usually, you see these booths in airports or in the tourist areas of large cities. There is a reason they are stationed where they are, to make money off of tourists who need to exchange to get cash.

Basically, try to avoid these booths.

2.) Order Foreign Currency from your Bank

If you need cash before arriving at your destination you can always contact your bank about ordering foreign currency. Always check the exchange rate that they have, and see if there are any hidden fees or costs for delivery. Also, check how long it takes to get the foreign currency you need. 

If you have time to plan before your trip and really need to have cash then this might be the way to go.. 

3.) Using your debit card

Generally most debit cards nowadays work when you travel. You can use them to make purchases or to withdraw cash from an ATM. (It’s safer and usually cheaper to use a bank ATM) Just check and see what costs your bank or the bank running the ATM charge in fees. It’s better to check this with your bank before traveling. Sometimes your bank will charge a specific fee of a few dollars or a certain set percentage of the money you take out. If it’s a set fee that doesn’t change with the amount you withdraw it’s probably better for you to withdraw larger amounts of cash less frequently to pay less fees.

Most debit cards are accepted in most stores across Europe (and elsewhere also), but some smaller retailers may not accept payment with a foreign debit card for small purchase of 1-5€. This is because the fees they may incur do not justify the sale. Just be prepared if you need to make small purchases.

Also some vendors at places like open-air markets may not accept cards, though more and more of them are as technology makes it easier for them to do so. In some countries the citizens prefer to use cash more than card. For example, Germans love to pay with cash and this can make for some uncomfortable situations at some small shops once you get away from the tourist areas. As the years go by though even these places are feeling the need to modernize.

Other countries such as in Sweden or Denmark hardly use cash anymore and are preparing to go cashless. So in countries like these you should have no problem getting around with just your card.

If you are asked if you want to make a payment in the local currency or $USD opt for paying in the local currency as you will better avoid bad exchange rates.

In general debit cards are a safe and easy way to get around and make purchases in Europe

(NOTE: Make sure to contact your bank before you travel to let them know that you will be abroad and in which countries. Otherwise it is possible that your account might be frozen if your bank thinks your information has been hacked or the card stolen.)

4.) Credit Cards

What about Credit cards? Well there are definitely some benefits to using them during travel. You can get some cards that have a 0% foreign transaction fee which makes shopping a bit more like at home (that is without extra fees). Also if your card is stolen the thieves don’t have private information which could help them access to your bank account.

You can also use the most credit cards to get money out at ATMs if you need some cash. Only thing is you aren’t withdrawing money from your bank account, its like you make a purchase with your credit card.

Often credit cards also give you points or rewards for when you spend, this can be useful for getting free flights or hotel rooms if you use the card a lot.

Of course it goes without saying that if you get behind on your payments an have to pay a lot of interest you might end up losing money and not saving. Then you might even be better of going and exchanging your cash at the airport. So be careful not to go over your budget!

(NOTE: Just like with a debit card make sure to contact your credit card company to let them know that you will be traveling and to which countries you will be traveling that you don’t have the inconvenience of having your card blocked.)

Worried about if your electrical devices will be ok when traveling to Europe? Here are a few tips to help you keep from “frying” your gadgets on your trip

1.) Check the Voltage

The voltage that you have in your house in the America when you plug in your devices is 110V, while most of Europe uses 220V. It’s super important to check your devices to see if they will work with an increased voltage of 220V. Most devices or appliances will have it written somewhere on them that tells you what voltage they are able to receive. Usually you can find this information on the cable or power brick.

Good news is that almost all phone and computer chargers are made for voltage ranging from 110-220V or even more. The biggest challenge is when it comes to some other appliances such as curling irons, hair dryers or electric razors, especially when these devices are a bit older. Always double check your charging cables just to be sure that you do not destroy your appliance. 

If your appliance is not rated for 220V then you need a converter (sometimes called a transformer) which will convert the voltage from 220V to 110V. But these are often expensive and just anther thing to add weight to your suitcase. Consider just buying another curling iron or hair dryer which work with 220V.

2.) Adapters in Europe 

It’s also important to take note that if you don’t have an adapter, your American devices or appliances will not work in Europe. You will need to buy an adapter before arriving. (If you wait until you get to Europe either you will need to spend time searching for one, or will end up paying way too much at the airport to purchase one.) You can usually find adapters at a store like Walmart, or order one online with good reviews.

It’s possible to get converters that only work with European sockets or if you plan to travel to other parts of the world or the UK you might opt for a universal adapter

The United Kingdom is special with their own giant plug which is not in any way compatible with the other sockets from other European nations. So if you plan to travel to both the UK and EU it’s probably better to buy a universal adapter so that you don’t have to carry two. In general be aware that not all adapters have the same quality. Some are more robust than others.

(Warning: an adapter only allows you to plug your device into another socket, it DOES NOT change the voltage!)

Are you looking to go on an adventure but having trouble finding a good flight ticket? Feeling  overwhelmed with the choices and ever fluctuating prices? Here are a few tips to help you find a good deal on a flight.

1.) Search in Private Mode 

Have you ever noticed that every time you go to look for a flight ticket somewhere online  the price keeps going up every time you search? Well, sometimes this has to do with the fact  that you are getting closer to the date when you want to fly, but more often than not, this can be  because of cookies in your browser. These cookies mark that you have searched for a specific  route multiple times, and thus the prices go up because the cookies “know” that you are very  interested in that trip and most likely will pay even if the price is high.

Opening a private window with your browser will help keep your searches from being tracked by  and saved by cookies, and thus will show you a more anonymous price, not one matched to  your search history.
 
 When you search in incognito mode or open a private window, all the cookie settings are reset so  that you can start afresh, and more easily find yourself a good deal!

2.) Use Flight Search Engines 

Although not always guaranteed to give you the best price for your flight, flight search 
engines are very useful tools for shopping around without needing to go to each individual  airline’s website to compare. Often, the prices found on these sights are cheaper than those  found on the airline’s website itself.

Some recommended sites include: Kayak, Momondo, Kiwi and Skyscanner.
 
All of these sits will do the job, though sometimes you might even need to check multiple sites to  find the best price. Another great thing about these websites is that you can often put in  different departure and/or arrival airports at the same time to compare between locations. This  is a very helpful tool if you are a bit flexible with your travel plans.

3.) Fly to or from a different Airport 

Are you flexible with your flight plans? Why not consider driving an hour or two to another airport  and taking a flight from there? Doing this could save you hundreds if you are willing and able to  do this! Just be careful to tobe sure that you include in the cost of parking, find free parking, or have someone who can drop you off and pick you up.

It’s not only possible though, to pick another airport for your departure, but what about your arrival? Check and see if there are cheap bus or train tickets from that airport to your final destination. (This is often true in Europe, where public transportation is usually quite good, especially between cities.) It’s important though, that you research this well if you are traveling in another country, especially when you don’t know the language.

4.) Change the dates of arrival 

If you can be flexible with the dates of your travel consider looking for flights a day or 
two earlier or later in the week. Sometimes this can mean a drastic difference in price. Generally, flights during the week tend to be cheaper than those on weekends.

Or if you can plan your trip in the off-season when fewer people are most likely to fly. Try to avoid holidays and school vacation periods. Also, in general, booking your flights a few months in advance should help you to find cheaper flights than if you book at the last minute. So if you have the possibility start early looking for a good deal!