Rick on Public Radio: 2007
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Comments on the radio show
I listen to Rick Steve's radio show in Philadelphia, PA. The radio show comes on at 5 AM in the morning on Sundays. I love waking up early on Sunday mornings.
I travelled to Europe quite extensively, as a backpacker when I was a student, and then as a business traveller, a corporate "suit". Of all the ways of traveling, I like the backdoor style the best.
I have been to many of the places that Rick discuss in his show and am always quite entertained by his description of the places that I have been. I am also very entertained and enlightened by his description of places that I have yet to experience.
I like the fact that he talks not only about the buildings and monuments but also about the people, the customs, the culture and the history of the places he visits.
I am writing just to let you know how much I appreciate the show. Thank you.
Jia Li <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Sun 12/30/2007
Ireland in December on Honeymoon? Are you Crazy?
Hi Rick,
When you were in Chicago a couple of weeks ago on your book tour, I told you I was headed to Ireland on my Honeymoon this month. The way I remember it you gave me a baffled look & had an expression that can be described only as "Are you insane"?. Well I just wanted to check in towards the end of the trip & let you, and all of the readers of the blog know that, Ireland in the winter is wonderful.
My new wife & I have a couple of thoughts about why this time of year is a nice time to travel.
1. Plan for the worst hope for the best: we expected rain & biting winds everyday (we stocked up on books and booked places with peat fireplaces as well as packed accordingly) ... it turned out that only 3 days of our trip were like that. Otherwise it was dry and chilly (about 40-50 degrees... not bad at all) the other 10 days.
2. It was dirt cheap to get here. Because of the exchange rate the dollar doesn't go too far in Europe. While it didn't offset the cost of traveling, we were able to book our flight on Aer Lingus from Chicago for about $350 a person (including fess and taxes). Every little bit helps...
3. Traveling in the down season is great if you want to chat with the locals and move at your own pace. My wife and I got a free bump up to a suite in a great hotel because the bookings were so light & we were on honeymoon.
Its been a great trip & we're looking forward to getting home.
Brian
Brian Schwartz <email>
Chicago, IL USA Thu 12/13/2007
Fantastic Companion to Work and Back
I listen to Rick Steves' podcast on my way to work and back -- I start the day with the first half and finish it with the second. I always enjoy the variety, the expertise, and the Rick's skillful interviewing. Although I was hesitant to listen to non-Europe topics, little did I know the extent of Rick's travels...but his guests are charming and insightful! My favorite episode so far was the panel discussion (which could have been recorded in an East European Bar from the camaraderie) was "Eastern Europe: Then and Now." Thank you for providing the podcasts!!
Scott V.
Austin, TX USA Sat 12/08/2007
Rick's show plugged
Rick's Radio show gets a compliment from Robert Wright (author of The Moral Animal and Non-Zero) on this video conversation about the spiritual feelings that foreign travel can inspire:
http://bloggingheads.tv/video.php?id=463#2916 (copy and paste the link into your browser if you want to watch).
S Hatchett
Sacramento, CA USA Tue 11/20/2007
D-Day and WWII sites
A few comments on D-Day and other WWII Sites from a WWII "buff". Read the history before you go. Then, take your time at each site, and don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with an older person. You will meet WWII vets, who will open up to a stranger and relate things they have never told their families. Remember to give respect at all the sites...even the German Cemetery. Also, don't be afraid to take children. We did(ages 6-10) and they are very anxious to go back.
Sue Cicherski <email>
Dallas, Tx USA Mon 11/12/2007
Italian Cuisine and Rome
Discovery Italian Cuisine-Take in the neidhgorhood "cafe". They are the best....no matter where you are in Italy. And, for the best tour in Rome...trust Rick and good walking shoes.
Sue Cicherski <email>
Dallas, Tx USA Mon 11/12/2007
Travelling as an American
I'm listening to Rick's podcast with Don George about travelling as an American and telling people that you're American.
I went to Egypt in May 2006 and everybody told me not to go because of the war and how Americans were percieved by Arabs. But I wanted to see it for myself and as an Asian American, I figured that if things got bad then I can say that I'm a Japanese traveler, and thankfully I never had to do that.
Egypt was one of the friendlist countries that I've ever visited. The people are incredibly warm and hospitable. They may not know much English, but everywhere I went (from Cairo to Luxor to Aswan) I hear "Welcome to Egypt!!!" It was so heartwarming to be received so well.
I also met many locals who wanted to talk abot politics. At first, I was reluctant, but I quickly realized that they know that you do not make your country's foreign policies. I had many many delightful and insightful conversations with locals, and at the end of every conversation was "Thank you for visiting. Welcome to Egypt!"
A. Guo
Walnut, CA USA Wed 10/31/2007
Kindness of Strangers
I just discovered the awesomeness of Rick's podcasts! My favorite part
of the casts are the sessions where travelers talk about the kindness of
strangers, so I wanted to share my stories.
Back in 1997, my friends and I spent one month backpacking around Western Europe. In Paris, my friends and I were unaware that we had to weigh and price our own fruit in the supermarkets. A very very kind old lady noticed that we were carrying our fruit (unpriced!) to the check out line. She stopped us and weighed our fruit for us.
From Paris we went to Beaune, and I forget why, but we were very very late arrive at the hotel. The hotel owners were concerned for us and they kept their restaurant opened late. When we arrived, they cooked up a fabulous meal and didn't charge us extra for keeping them open.
In Brussels, my friends and I were hopelessly lost. We had just arrived and tired from an overnight train ride. One passerby not only gave us directions, but went out of her way and walked us to the hotel.
I never forgot the kindness of these people.
Just wanted to share!
Keep on Travelling!
Angel
Los Angeles, CA USA Thu 10/25/2007
Sicilian genaological records
Visiting Sicily. I enjoyed your program on looking up ancestors in Sicily, but wondered why you did not advise those planning such a trip to try looking up the Mormon record library before setting out. I understand that the Mormons have the most extensive records from all over Europe. I feel shure that any records available in a parish church in SIcily would long ago have been entered in the Salt Lake City records
I Scott
Cincinnati, OHIO USA Sat 10/20/2007
european drug laws
loved your article .one" large"mistake though! Last year[2006]there were 850,000 marijuana arrests in the U.S. alone[see MPP{marijuana policy project] figures].the figure you sight is the number of federal arrests NOT the state/local numbers.see,you under reported the problem by 90%
ross Dormon <email>
tallahassee, fL USA Tue 10/16/2007
today's program
Rick was right about saying Bonjour in Paris. I was late and ran up to a ticket window at a train station to demand a ticket. The clerk said to me,
Dit-moi bonjour!! She was right. I was rude and she had to power to make me miss my train. I've never forgotten
Ruth K Meyer
Covington, KY USA Sat 10/13/2007
Baja
On the recent radio show on Baja California...your guest apparently missed telling you that besides the Sea of Cortez route (eastern side,mountains) to La Paz from Cabo San Lucas, you can also return west down the Pacific Coast side and through Todas Santos. We leave Cabo early and get to La Paz around 11 a.m. Have a leisurely malecon lunch and return via Todas Santos (it's faster) and enjoy dinner in Cabo.
San Jose del Cabo is much more peaceful and laid back. We visited most of the small pueblos all over southern Baja south of La Paz. Friendly people! Have made several friends we see every so often. Really enjoy going down there.
Dana V <email>
Wildomar, CA USA Fri 10/12/2007
France & Belgium
My Mother and I went to Northern France, Brussels and Paris. Had a wonderful time. Used Rick Steves Book in Paris which was extremely helpful. Thanks from everyone who encouraged to buy Carte Orange and Museum Pass both which saved lots of euros. We used all of Paris' mass transportation several times each day. Advise anyone going to Paris, to do Bus 69 route first to become oriented to city. Met another couple on Bus who were also carrying Rick's book. Took taxi from CDG which was great. Cost 40 euros but driver gave us a tour on the way to hotel which was really nice. The French people were very helpful and went out of their way to assist us. I found if you attempt to speak the language, they will do anything for you. Also, if you want to see rural France, would encourage to book a Castle hotel, rent an auto and get out & explore the areas. People there also will speak English if you try to speak French. We booked on the Eurostar for a day in Brussels. Ladies - hold onto your purses. Two men came into MacDonalds and took my Mother's purse from my side as I sat in the booth. After loudly demanding they return it they disappeared. So be wary of people who come sit beside you with shopping bags and no food. They will try to distract you so they can steal from you. No one else saw this because of the way the two men were sitting to block the view from the other customers. Never had a problem in Paris. Thanks to Rick and his staff for all the info to make our vacation a wonderful experience.
Vickie <email>
La Quinta, CA USA Sat 09/22/2007
London, Windsor, Edinburgh
I just got back from a trip to London, Windsor and Edinburgh. My Mom and I took your books for Great Britain 2006 and London2007. They were invaluable. We stayed in places recommended,,, Winchestor Hotel in London, Dunedin in Edinburgh and loved both. Fun trip. Even though the exchange rate is bad the trip was worth it.
Patricia Moore <email>
Irvine, CA USA Tue 09/18/2007
Carp pe Diem
Steve, I can not believe that you ate the sperm from a Carp. I am a very adventurous eater, but I'd draw the line before that I think. You must have nerves of steel!
I love you, your crew and your family. Please keep the DVDs coming!
Sandra Paquin
Woodbine, GA USA Fri 09/07/2007
Bad Lands
I am really disappointed on how misinformed the guest and the host of this episode are. Mentioning Albania as a runner-up to the Axis of Evil countries is a factual travesty.
I am an Albanian-American and am astounded by this misinformation; Albania does not compare with those countries what so ever:
Albania has a democratically elected and secular government and a well-educated people.
Albania has never supported international terrorism or has links to terrorist organizations.
Albanian soldiers are fighting terrorism alongside US soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Albanians share many aspects of their couture and religion with the western countries.
Albanians could easily be considered the best friends of this country in whole Europe - as it was demonstrated during the recent visit of our president.
Rick Steve's Europe got it terribly wrong this time!
Producer's Note: This comment is in response to a 30-second promotion of a radio program with Tony Wheeler, author of "Bad Lands". Listen to the promotion here. The entire program will air over Labor Day weekend on most stations. We invite you to tune into your local radio station this weekend to listen to our entire interview with guest, Tony Wheeler.
Kris Nika <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA Fri 08/31/2007
Cheap Travel in Germany
Another option for travel in Germany/Europe is renting an RV. My German boyfriend and I rented a midsize RV ("wohnmobile" in German) for only $50 a day in 2001 -- half what a comparable one cost in the US! Campgrounds are everywhere, often even in the middle of big cities, and cost us only $15 or $20 per night. I admit, I didn't have to worry about the details at all, as he was a German citizen and had a driver's license "to operate everything from motorcycles to Army tanks", but the more adventuresome travelers may want to look into it.
Melanie Cline <email>
Dallas, TX USA Sat 08/25/2007
Japan
Good work on tough topics cf. bullfighting in Spain and "the troubles" in Ireland.
Here's a challenge for you---Japan! Because I taught social studies, I'd like to see how you handle that assignment. Your podcast only gets a C+. Even today Japan is rather off the beaten path and sort of out of your bailwick. It is a great country to travel in by train. Group travel is really the way to go unless a person has unlimited time and/or money. That's what the Japanese do themselves.
gladys Li <email>
Tuckahoe, NY USA Sun 08/19/2007
North & South Italy
Just a comment about your show today.
I am from Seattle and recently returned after living in Puglia for 2 years. My husband's family is from Rome and Milan, so my previous experience in Italy was mostly between these two. I found the South to be very culturally rich, full of amazing people, and the food beyond incredible. There was no more concern for safety than anywhere else in Italy.
Economically, I saw young people returning to open businesses and invest in Puglia, that previously they may have gone North and not returned.
I was extremely taken by Puglia and look forward to returning quite a bit throughout my life.
Kathleen
Seattle, WA USA Wed 08/15/2007
Hiring a guide & car in Angkor Wats
I was listening to your program about Cambodia and a caller had asked about hiring a guide and car. We visited Siem Reap in June of 2006 and had a very knowledgeable guide, Saron, who spoke very good English. He grew up in the camp and learned English from the UN peace keepers there. He can be reached via e-mail at: Soeun Saron [mailto:saronan@camintel.com]. His services included free airport transfer to our hotel in town. His rate was so reasonable and we learned so much about his country and the art in the temples that we ended up giving him a huge tip at the end of the trip.
We had a 3 day pass and this allowed us to visit some of the temples that weren't close to town. One that I would highly recommend is Banteay Samre. The details in the carvings are quite extraordinary.
I would also recommend staying at the Auberge Mont Royal Hotel. It is close to the center of town and a block away from the towne market. We found the silk shawls and tops to be cheaper than the ones in the Bangkok markets. There is a restaurant in the towne center (Khmer Kitchen or Khmer Family Restaurant) which was featured in one of the airline magazines. The restaurant serves authentic Khmer dishes and each dish cost us $2! We ate there a few nights while we were in Siem Reap. The menu was varied enough to allow sampling of different dishes during each visit.
Patricia Lim
Beaverton, OR USA Tue 08/14/2007
Weather Date for trip planning
During the show of 4 August a caller asked for a source of historical weather data for a ski area in Chile. I was not able to call in from my car with the information that historical weather data for most of the world can be found in the trip planner tab of the Weather Underground. http://www.wunderground.com/
Jeffrey Poster <email>
Arlington , TX USA Sat 08/04/2007
Route 66
I'm a new subscriber to your podcast and have just finished the show on Route 66 and loved it. It made me remember a vacation my husband and I took in 2004 for our one year Wedding Anniversary. We flew into Vegas, rented a car and drove Route 66 from Vegas to Williams, AZ where we took the Grand Canyon Railway to the Grand Canyon. It was a fantastic trip and our favorite part was Route 66. We saw some amazing things and ate some of the best homecooked diner food ever. One of our favorites was the Copper Cart in Seligman, AZ. It's family owned and when you enter you are made to feel like family. I'll never forget during our meal we heard a woman yell from the kitchen, "I thought I'd make some rice pudding. Would anybody want any?" Everyone in the place raised their hands. It was the best rice pudding ever. We can't wait to one day share this trip with our daughter.
Kelly Driver
Hilliard, OH USA Tue 07/31/2007
Cuba - Food
I traveled to Cuba legally with the Semester at Sea program in 2002. My friends and I met a young man who said he would take us to a great "house restaurant" if we bought him some milk in return. We agreed, thinking this a more than fair deal.
After we ate, we went to buy the young man his milk. It cost $11 a gallon! I heard this was because of strict food rationing, which made food in traditional restaurants VERY expensive.
Thanks, this show is reminding me of my great time in Havana!
Jenna
Seattle, WA USA Mon 07/30/2007
US Marshalls at Canadian airports
We have a friend that was arrested by US Marshalls in Canada. They were held until they paid a fine of $7,500.
The Marshalls were wating in the boarding area of flights arriving from Cuba. Appearantly they were questioning anyone that looked like they may be Americans.
Jeff W
USA Mon 07/30/2007
Cuba visits...what was he thinking?
I was troubled by your program on Cuba that aired 7/29 on WLRN in Miami. I missed the beginning of the program, so the issue may have been covered, but your guest seemed to be advocating travel to Cuba by US citizens. While travel to Cuba on a US passport may be legal, in the absence of a license from the govenrment, mostly given to scholars, jounalists and those participating in religous or charitable travel, it is illegal for US citizens to spend money in Cuba. How did your guest propose that Americans eat in restaurants, stay in hotels or buy the cigars that he admitted had to be smoked there becuase you can't import them back into the US? Substantial fines can be imposed (and apparently US authorities monitor returning flights from Cuba into Nassau and Mexican airports to find Americans who are returning from Cuba) and prosecutions are not unheard of. How can you responsibly permit a guest to advocate breaking US law? I have lived in Miami nearly all my life, am a bilingual non-Hispanic, grew up with the first generation of Cuban exiles and have long desired to visit the island...but won't at the risk of prosecution. Except for the one phone call from a Miami exile woman, the pain and loss of the exile community which motivates their opposition to the Castro regime and to Fidel (and now Raul) was misportrayed. I believe the embargo is a failed policy and that some kind of engagement would be desirable, but the emabargo is not the cause of the depressed economy in Cuba...it is a failed system, a former satellite of the USSR, another failed system, that has been unable to make itself work and has found the embargo to be a useful excuse for its failures. I know from what my friends have told me that it is a beautiful country with terrific music and warm, friendly people...I hope to visit one day when all are free to come and go there, including the Cubans who live on the island.
Marc Sternbaum
Miami, Florid USA Sun 07/29/2007
Cuba
We went to Havana to experience all the wonderful things we imagined Cuba to be, people, culture, food, music. Havana looks like New Orleans after Katrina. It was depressing and the lack of freedom was overwhelmingly evident. Americans should be allowed to see what Communism is all about.
Jolanda
CA USA Sun 07/29/2007
barge traveling in France
Rick: Enjoying the show with Bill Higgs.
My wife and I hired our own barge and spent a week on the Burgundy Canal between St. Florentin and Montbard. Our barge traveled at a flank speed of aprox 3 mph and was so easy to manage. The barge was our transportation, lodging and entertainment for 7 days. We tied up at a quay each night, where (in France) water, electricity were available at no charge, had dinner at a local restaurant, shopped there for the next day, had breakfast at a bar the next morning and pic-nicked each noon. Locks close for an hour every day from noon, so we tied up and ate at that spot, sometimes meeting people walking the tow paths and sharing our noon meal with them. Bicycles are available to rent with the barg and we enjoyed that, too. With a barge, you can stop where you please, enjoy whatever appeals to you. We loved the trip and will do it again this year. Barges are very easy to operate. No one should hestiate to rent a barge for that reason. Locks, too, are very negotiable.
I'll mention a couple books in my library on the subject of barge travel, which are quite helpful. Cruising French Canals and Rivers, by Hugh McKnight, Seven Seas Press, Inc ISBN 0-915160-82-X (Book Trade distibution by Simon and Schuster, and France - the quiet way, by John Liley, Stanford Maritime Limited, 1975. ISBN 0-540-07140-4.
Both are excellent and full of detail.
Tom
Springfield , IL USA Wed 07/18/2007
podcast on Japan
I was very pleased with the recent podcast on Japan ... FYI, you briefly mentioned Koyasan, this is the home and eternal resting place of the Kobo-daishi, the man largely responsible for spreading Buddism actoss Japan. Many still celebrate him by walking the 88 temple pilgrimage on the island of Shikoku. Koyasan is in Wakayama.
I must say, though, that no trip to Japan is complete without a trip to Kamakura! After 11 years living in Japan, I am still exploring!
Sean B.
Japan Tue 07/17/2007
Mary King's Close
My 3 daughters(12,15,20) and I went to the Mary King's Close Tour when we visited Edinburgh in March of 2004. My 20 year old daughter, a then student of the University of Aberdeen, had read a book called "Mary King's Close," so when we saw the tour entrance we decided to do it. It was enjoyable and informative for all 4 of us at our different ages and was not a "ghost tour," although the tour did include odd and unusual happenings that had been observed. The guides were dressed in period clothing and talked according to the manner of the 15th and 16th centuries. Thank you for your show.
JF
Yucaipa, CA USA Sun 07/15/2007
A Midsummer's Guide to Sweden
Living in the UK, I really enjoyed your programme on Sweden having visited there and Norway several times. I often describe Scandianvia to people as 'Europe's Big Country' - it's one of very few parts of Europe with big open landscapes and where nature still rules, but with local culture and communities as well. Mountain walking is widely available with excellent trails and reliable huts. Getting around is easy and if you're worried about hotel costs don't be afraid to try the youth hostels. Most of them also have private rooms and the standard of facilities and food is reliable and high.
Always refreshing to have a view on our continent from further afield - enjoy your travels.
Tim Searle <email>
Worcester, England, UK Fri 06/29/2007
Foreign Affairs
I've been meaning to drop you a line about this for ages. Today's the day. Your radio show is the best thing on the air about foreign affairs. It is NOT "just" a travel show. Heavens no. You ask important and unexpected and amazingly probing questions of your guests that enlighten and broaden Americans' understanding of how the rest of the world thinks and works. Your questions today about the EU and what ordinary Eastern Europeans think about the big change they're going through were a perfect example of what I'm talking about. Thank you! If only the pundits OFFICIALLY "responsible" for such questioning did half as good a job as you do. You're amazing.
Nurmi Husa
Vancouver, WA USA Mon 06/11/2007
Harping on Communism in East Europe
Love your program on WLRN, Steve, but do take exception to your continual harping on the brief communist era which most people want to forget. I though you would be above the US idea that history goes back only as far as a person's lifetime. The News media currently talk the same way (while reporting on the missile defence shield), as if eastern Europe really should belong to Russia and was not taken over by force for a mere 50 years out of centuries of history. Talk to a Scot about whether England's domination of Scotland for a brief 25 years at the time of "Braveheart" was not also a time to forget. I have worked in Cuba with many Eastern Europeans, and my wife and I (she is of Lithuanian heritage) visited Lithuania after Independence and found that any memories of Russian domination in both places are high on the list for elimination.
These are not "former communist block countries", but simply "European Countries" still recovering, if you will, from the aftermath of the 2nd world war.
Our daughter is soon to travel around Eastern Europe with her Scottish cousins, so thanks again for your very informative programs.
Nigel MacDonald <email>
Plantation, FL USA Sun 06/10/2007
Turkmenistan and Nicaragua
I have really enjoyed listening to the programs. I want to thank Rick for covering several areas.
The story today about Central Asia really touched me. My husband and I hosted a high school exchange student from Turkmenistan in 2000/2001 school year. It was a marvelous experience. We are still close after all these years - We hope to visit soon. (By the way-We are told the new president is improving things - the dictator passed away months ago.) Friends are hosting a boy from Kazakhstan this year. Please tell your listeners that hosting exchange students is an amazing way to learn about a foreign culture and to share our culture as well.(We now have 14 “sons and daughters” from various countries - We have family now all over the world.) We use Youth for Understanding but there are others. There is a great need for host families now - Please tell listeners to check it out - they won’t regret it.
The other story I appreciated was about Nicaragua. I ( a 50+ year old women) went to Nicaragua by myself and attended a language school in Granada. This is a very inexpensive and safe way for individuals and families to visit Central America - As someone once said - “It is cheaper than staying home”. You have school, excursions, a wonderful family to live with and 3 meals a day for less than $200 a week. I loved this trip and hope to do it again. Again- Check it out - one won’t regret it. For more info about Spanish language schools/Immersions check www.123teachme.com
Thanks again for the great programs.
Valerie Lynch
Indianapolis Indiana
Valerie Lynch <email>
Indianapolis, IN USA Sat 06/09/2007
my 3 favorite episodes of Travel With Rick Steves.
I really love rick's show and my favorite episodes are Arthur Frommer, To tour or not to tour, and Ask the piolt about flight saftey. Rick has a great show.
Babak Pakravan
Lawrence, KS USA Wed 06/06/2007
server not responding
server wasn't responding today. couldn't listen to archived episodes.
JB
Forestville, CA USA Tue 06/05/2007
Bull Fighting
On the June 2nd show Mary said that bull fighting was going to continue in Spain. That is not entirely true. When in Barcelona 2 weeks ago a young woman told me that bull fighting was going to be banned in Barcelona in I believe it was September. Rick we are the couple that you talked to at the alley along side the cathedral in the Barri Gotic while your crew was doing a shoot.
Joseph Valls. <email>
San Francisco, Ca USA Mon 06/04/2007
John Kennedy's comments
Today, June 2, Rick let Mary Murray Bosrock make that old canard that John Kennedy called himself a jelly donut in his famous Berlin speech. He did no such thing! She said, "In Berlin, a jelly donut is called a Berliner." And that's false. It is in New York City that the jelly donut is called a "Berliner." In Berlin and the rest of Germany, that same donut is called "an Americaner." Think about it: it's derogatory. No one would call themselves a derogatory term. Some New York reporter heard JFK say, "Ich bin ein Berliner." and sarcastically said, "He called himself a jelly donut!" Well, the joke's not on Kennedy! It's about time this old slur was put to rest.
Pat F.
Fort Worth, TX USA Sat 06/02/2007
Emjoy the show
I was trying to catch up on recent podcasts, and while listening to the Sicily podcast from 4/7/07, I just had to comment. Your guest speakers were so infectiously friendly, funny and informative, they had me giggling through the whole thing. I forgot their names, but they certainly have me not only craving another trip to Italy, but specifically to make it down to Sicily next time. I truly hope that their offer to help Rick write a book on Sicily inspires him to actually go through with it!
Heather P.
USA Thu 05/31/2007
Packing Light
I am a retired flight attendant (30) years of mostly international travel. I feel your packing light pod cast was right on target. I use a 3/5 system for my husband and I. Three bottoms and 5 tops plus a sweater and jacket. We wear the bulkest jacket. I pack a light weight large scarf usually wool challis for dress up and airplane blanket as well. I buy a pair of flashy inexpensive earrings for dress up and black hose to wear for opera or evening concert.
I always cross pack. With husband or a women friend I split up half and half per bag. I pack one shirt and change of underwear in each small carry on in case of luggage gone astray.
I carry a 7x9 inch journal for watercolor and notes and make lots of friends when I sit and draw. Espically kids and seniors. Your podcasts are a godsend and worth the price of an ipod. I recently had eye surgery and have 3-4 weeks of inability to read and see clearly so these are my eye candy.
I wish I could write poetry, but my little watercolors are my travel treats. I always make one for the tour guide and bus drives prior to our trip.
Thanks for the gifts and talents of your company. My friends sometimes ask in a "smarmy" voice "and what did Saint Rick say to do today?" I tell them to hush up and be on time, we have lots of fun things to do so don't be late.
Pat F.
Minden, NV USA Thu 05/31/2007
kindness of strangers
We arrived in Manrola on the Cinque Terra on the train. My husband has Parkinson's and moves at a slower pace. I have a bum knee so we looked like a gimpy couple. We were traveling with another senior couple. We climbed down from the train. A young couple took our luggage and carried it down the stairs and up again insisting that it was no problemand then up the hill. I had the bag with the wine for the other 3 people in my bag. I do not drink so ( I have been in AA for years)I gave this nice couple the wine much to the surprise of the other 3 I of course saved the choclate. Wine is everywhere I don't find choclate as easy to find.
Pat Frederick-Perona <email>
Minden, NV USA Sun 05/27/2007
Danger: Vagabond Internet Cafe Money Matters
Heard on VAGABOND. Great program. Liked when author said something like 'after you return home, walk around as if you are a sojourner there, too.'
In a few Internet cafes in Bangkok, the owners put in keyloggers and afterwards accessed the customers' accounts. Carry encrypted thumbnail memory sticks with your financial information while on the road.
Great podcast. Thank you, Rick.
Charlie Mac <email>
kobe, USA Sat 05/26/2007
vagabonding with children
In respsonse to the listerners' question about vagabonding with children, I can give two perspectives:
1. A new book "Bring Your Own Children: South America: A family sabbatical handbook" by Robin Malinosky-Rummel, Ph.D. 2007, Book Publishers Network, Bothell, WA. ISBN, 1-887542-48-5 describes this couple's year in S.A. with their 9 year old son who adds his own section to every chapter from his journal. Both a great travelogue and how-to guide.
2. When our son was 8 and daughter 4, we sold our house and belongings, bought a 25' travel trailer and vagabonded around the US for the next year, for 4 months we had very little itenerary and zigzagged from Oregon to North Carolina, the last 8 we wandered the SE US visiting family and exploring the sights there. We homeschooled for the year and ended up finding new jobs in a new location. We had a wonderful year that strengthened our family and felt as close to the vagabonding trips my wife Bonnie and I had taken in years past (e.g. a 6 mo. bicycle trip in Australia and New Zealand that was mostly guided by whom we met along the way and where they directed us; and living in Malaysia for 18 months followed by an 8 country vagabonding tour through asia, both quite magical).
Thanks for your fascinating show.
John
PS, Bonnie loved Rick's guide to Paris on her trip last summer with her sister and mom.
John White <email>
Forest Grove, OR USA Sun 05/20/2007
Amsterdam
Rick,
What a great discussion of Amsterdam (KUOW 4/28). I'm always impressed with the intelligence and balance you bring to whatever you are discussing.
Patty
Seattle, WA USA Mon 04/30/2007
Favorite Meals
Dear Rick,
My favorite meal was at the restaurant, on the first level, at the Eiffel Tower. It's about 1/3 of the way to the top. The food and scenery were impeccable, tasty beyond compare. It was about $100.00 for 2.
My second favorite meal was in Istanbul, Turkey, right down the road from Gianni's, as in Gianni Versace [top notch woman's coats]. It was in the section of town that has a lot of Russian immigrants, trying to make a living. Anyway, I ordered the ocean perch and it was delicious. Prepared exactly to my liking. I ordered the complete entree, a second time, while I was there. Only time in my life I've ever done that.
If you had a 24 hour radio channel, I think I would always be listening to it. I heard you on public radio today, WVXU Cincinnati, Oh.
Keep up your perfect tone in your voice, at all times.
David F
Covington, KY USA Mon 04/30/2007
Earth Day Show
We listen to your radio show and enjoy it very much, but as I listened to the "vanishing places" and wondered how one could justify getting on a plane (the worst kind of GHG emitter that characterizes an abhorrent human lifestyle) to see them. How do you reconcile this irony that tears me at my heart. How can we continue to enjoy an activity as travelers, perpetuating the denigration of the planet?
Alan Bender <email>
Volga, SD USA Sun 04/22/2007
Growing Up Under Communism
I recently got an i-pod and have been enjoying your current and past podcasts. I just listened to "Growing Up Under Communism" from the end of December. I was especially interested in your comment, Rick, about ice cream. My sister was a Russian historian who traveled to the former USSR quite often and even lived in Leningrad for six months in 1973. She always traveled on a scholar visa, was frequently followed and was treated quite lowly. She told me a story about being at a restaurant in the hotel in Leningrad where she was staying sometime around 1977. When she saw some American tourists at the table next to her being served ice cream, she asked for some. She was told with a severe face that they do not have nor serve ice cream. When she tried to pursue the request saying that the other people had some, the waiter repeated the same thing. She later found out that ice cream was only for tourists who they were trying to impress!So consider yourself lucky that you were served some!
Anne Merritt <email>
Ojai, CA USA Sun 04/22/2007
To Tour or not to Tour Show
Dear Rick
I loved the show where you intervied one of your bus drivers Fantastic and interesting. great show.
Babak Pakravan
Lawrence, Kansas USA Sat 04/14/2007
Hinduism
Folks, about a week or so ago you had a great discussion on India. The discussion on Hinduism was in focus. I wanted to comment that some call it Hinduism, it is really called Sanatana Dharma.
Also, when one thinks of India and it's roots, there was no discussion on the Veda's, Upanishads, and various Shasta's...this is the core of India's spiritual lineage.
Also some notes on the following:
reincarnation - yet we belive this, but this is not desirable. We would rather achieve Moksha (a.k.a)enlightenment.
33 Million gods - we believe there is only ONE God ( Tad Ekam - That One). Where did the 33 million come from ( Some think 33,000 and outlined in the Upanishads)? We see creation as an expression of the Divine, So His work , the details can be seen as His expression and an extention of HIM (some say Her, Mother Divine). I am happy to write more about this, and develop any part of this conversation.
Thank and and hope you can have others discuss these topics.
Regards,
Frank In California <email>
CA USA Thu 04/12/2007
French Celtic Connection
look at "Tristan and Isolde" to understand the Celtic connection: Ireland - Cornwall - Brittany
Karen S
USA Fri 04/06/2007
Inuit/Eskimo
I was listening to your program on the Northwest Territories today. I find it great that you are spotlighting this area of North America; however I disagree with the commentator, Aaron Spitzer, about the usage of the term "Eskimo". I reside in Canada, and am acquainted with aboriginal people from northern Canada (Inuit people). As far as I am aware the term Eskimo is not considered politically correct, and can be offensive to some individuals.
Anonymous
Canada Sun 04/01/2007
Adventures outside of Europe
Bravo! I loved listening to today's fascinating segment on tourism in Iran. I am a regular listener to the show, but my biggest complaint is that it is all too often focused on European travel. Thank you.
KK <email>
Portland, OR USA Sun 04/01/2007
Camino de Santiago
I listened to your segment on the Camino de Santiago (3/31). I was disappointed that you chose a tour guide to cover this most beloved route to Santiago de Compostela. He talked about four star hotels, passing up the 'ugly' side of the Camino and carrying the luggage for these so called pilgrims. I walked the 800 km of the Camino in April/May 2005, starting at St. Jean Pied de Port, on the French side of the Pyrenees. Those of us who walked the Camino held the 'turistas' that you covered today in low regard. The places where we spent the night are called 'albergues', not 'huts'. They did not stink as your guest implied. They are staffed by volunteers called 'hospitaleros' who volunteer two weeks of their time to provide support to the peregrinos, staff the albergues and to keep them clean. I know because I have been trained as a hospitalera and my daughter, with whom I walked the Camino, served her two week stint last summer. Your coverage of the Camino would have been more informative if you had had an actual peregino (pilgrim) who experienced the entire route. It is an absolutely wonderful experience. Those who stay in four star hotels will miss the experience of staying in an albergue. Those who chose to eat at fancy restaurants will never know the delightfulness of sharing a communal dinner or of eating at one of the many bars and restaurants along the way. Those who chose to have their luggage carried for them will never have the satifaction of knowing that you have physically conquered this demanding walk. Those who have only walked the 'beautiful' parts of the Camino will never appreciate the meseta, the Pyrenees, the small towns, the big cities, O'Cebreiro, the small churches nor the smiles, hugs and encouragement of the people you meet along the way. Mr. Steves, the next time you cover the Camino, do it right. Have a real peregrino tell you about it. You and your listeners will get a completely different picture of the Way than they got today. Only a real peregrino can tell it like it is, not a turista, or a tour guide. Buen Camino.
Marie Lambe <email>
Fresno, CA USA Sat 03/31/2007
Subject: India
Dear Rick,
Your piece on Inida was intriguing, but a few corrections. The very first concept in Hinduism is "Prarabdha", often loosely called "fate". "Prarabdha" means predetermined course of life events that can be changed by your current behavior, but not completely. A good example of Prarabdha is your genetic make up.
You also failed to address the very basic idea of Hinduism, the concept of shapeless, formless God that can be experienced without any rituals.
Hinduism respects all other religions, the reason there are more Gods is that people see God differently and therefore should have freedom to see God as they can experience God.
I go to India every year, but I had an amazing experience after many trips because it was my Prarabdha to not experience this deeply spiritual experience till it was time. In some ways Time (Kaal as it is called) is more powerful than menifest forms of God. The unmenifested form is the one that is every where and we all are part of, that we cannot see and does not require any rituals to be a part of.
All in all you did godd justice to explaining the other two aspects of Hinduism, namely Karma and Reincarnation. Cast system is just a vestige of bad things, although the same exists in all societies in form of classes.
nvasavada
USA Mon 03/26/2007
Hello Rick,
Even though I am Muslim, I hope you will allow me to offer a correction on an important part of your show this Saturday.
Hinduism does NOT have "millions of gods". Hindus believe in ONE GOD with many aspects to him. When they have gods looking like the Snake or Elephant or Cow, they are showing varius attributes of the ONE God; their belief is that since to a Cow, God must look like a cow, we can have the image of a cow representing God. Pretty logical, if you ask me.
If Christians can have thre aspects of God, why can't someone else have more?
Hinduism is indeed, a monotheistic faith, ask any Hindu priest.
Regards, Siddiqui
Jeff
Seattle, USA Mon 03/26/2007
North Ireland
How disappointing that your segment on Northern Ireland was so focused on sectarianism--as a travel attraction! Surely the Mountains of Mourne, the Antrim Coast, and the Giants' Causway still provide dramatic enjoyment for a visitor to that lovely land.
Janet Master
Doylestown, PA USA Sun 03/18/2007
Travel to Pompeii and Herculaneum
Rick and friend recently discussed the caution required when taking the Circumvesuviana train from Naples to Pompeii and Herculaneum. First: one can live and travel to these places happily without ever confronting this train, not to mention the enormous and often confusing Naples train station. Take a tour bus! There are many tours out of Naples and even Rome in roomy, air-conditioned buses. Another point: both of these ancient cities, esp. Herculaneum, are located in crime-ridden slums. As valuable remnants of the ancient world, they are valuable to experience. As modern cities, you don't need the "guai" involved.
A. DeAngelis
Coral Gables, FL USA Sat 03/03/2007
Buses in Mexico
I recently started listening to the "Travel w/ Rick Steves" podcast. For my first download, I picked the show with the couple--Carl & Lorena--who've documented travel in Mexico for 30 years. Since I lived in the DF in the early 80's I thought I might enjoy that episode.
It was a very informative show but I was surprised at how positive Carl & Lorena's comments were concerning bus travel. During my (high school) years in Mexico City, it was a joke among most people I knew--and probably even country-wide common knowledge--that the unofficial motto of the inter-city bus system was: "Mejor muerto que tarde". ("Better dead than late.") One only need travel outside any major city in a compact car--even slightly exceeding the speed limit--to see this work ethic in action; quite frightening on some of the mountain roads!
Anyway, I hope to travel around Mexico some day with my wife and son and I will definitely continue to listen to the show for current travel tips on Mexico and beyond.
Thank you.
Rob
USA Fri 03/02/2007
Cuban Exile Misunderstanding by Rick
Rick:
A while ago you did a show on Cuba and you made a comment that I felt was very inaccurate. Paraphrasing, you said that many of the Cuban exiles in Miami are wealthy and hoping to go back to reclaim property, and that is the motivation for alot of the negativity from Miami. I am the son of a Cuban exile, and while I do not agree with alot of the policies that many in the exile community here advocate, that particular assessment is way off. Most of the exiles I know are not wealthy, and were not wealthy in Cuba, and they are all fervently anti-Castro. Most have no property to go back to at all. I can tell you my own family left because of repression, and decided to leave on the day they thought my father had disapeared even though he was not political in any way. I think opening up Cuba has as good a chance as any to create a freer environment, but please do not put inaccurate motivations upon those of us who oppose the current Cuban government.
ClearHead
Miami, FL USA Thu 02/22/2007
Restaurant in Paris
We learned of a restaurant(the Rose de France) we loved from Rick and tried to go there this trip to Paris. However, that restaurant has been sold and the owners and chef have opened a new retaurant Les Tramways L'Est right outside the Gare de l'est metro stop. This restaurant is considerably bigger but is serving the same great food at good prices. The service is wonderful and your choice of french or english. They will accommodate whichever you prefer(even poor french).
Julia <email>
Concord, NH USA Sat 01/20/2007
Soviet soft-drink vending machines
I listened to the Eastern Europe broadcast of 6 January 2007. Unfortunately I have not been to Eastern Europe prior to 1989, but I did manage to visit the USSR in its last years of Communist rule (i.e. Gorbachev presidency). When I was in the USSR in July / August 1990, I remember seeing these soft drink vending machines where one washes the provided plastic cup with water, puts money in (10 or 20 kopecks in 1990 prices), takes the dispensed product and consumes it, then washes the cup and places it back for the next customer - seemed to be a good use of recycling because nothing is really disposed of. I’ve seen these in Latvia and Russia. Some offered "Tarhun" which is a green-colored cream soda (we got ours from a glass bottle instead). Are these still visible in Russia, Latvia, Ukraine, or Belarus? Were there any real health concerns about using these other than the water used to wash the cup in these machines?
Josh Hanz <email>
Frisco, TX USA Sun 01/14/2007
HAWAII
PLEASE MENTION THE "REVEALED" SERIES OF ISLAND INFO BOOKS AND V.R.B.O.
AND THERE ARE $39 INTERISLAND FLIGHTS.
BILL WESTPHAL <email>
YUMA, AZ USA Sat 01/13/2007