[laumars]

That must have been quite some time ago because Europe has had open borders for years.

I've had road trips across Europe and not had my passport requested even once; let having it stamped and having myself and property searched.

[eCa]

There can still be mandatory passport checks at internal borders even with Schengen. This is a while ago, but back in 2001 I crossed the border from France to Italy a few days before the G8 summit in Genoa [0]. Passport checked, questions asked about itinerary, and a French couple on a motor bike was turned back due to not carrying their passports.

On the other hand, that is the only time of quite a few crossing where this have happened.

[0] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/27th_G8_summit

[bane]

Getting into Shengen is where you encounter the friendly border people. Once you're in, you can get around as you please.

[laumars]

He gave examples where he was already in Europe and crossing borders. (eg Germany -> Italy)

[bane]

I'm "he". And I was entering Shengen in Germany and then flying to Italy within the zone.

[laumars]

Ahh ok. That makes more sense now. Sorry :)

[bane]

No problem. It's confusing.