Roundabouts

One of the best features of driving in Europe is the rarity of stop lights or stop signs. Instead, both in towns and in the country, they have roundabouts here.

When two roads meet they have a circular feature in the center of the intersection - often decorated with flowers or statues, or art works. Traffic proceeds to the right around the roundabout until they reach the road they want and then exit. When approaching the roundabout the traffic already in it (coming from your left) has the right of way. So all the driver has to do is look to the left, find an open spot, and then take off to the right in the roundabout. The traffic to your right will give you the right of way - so you really only need to look one direction.

Each exit from the roundabout (there are usually 4 when two roads meet, but can be more depending on the situation) has prominent signs telling the destination of the road. So if heading to Geneva you need to circle until you see the sign "Geneve" and then take that road out. It's simple and eliminates the need for stop lights and stop signs. A great invention!