Rick on Public Radio
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Rick and Turkey
Dear Rick,
I live in Miami Beach, FL. I have been a close follower of your shows on TV, Radio and Podcasts. As a Turkish, I would like to say that you have been a great ambassador for teaching the history, the people, the culture, the sights and the facts of Turkey. I will propose to the MINISTRY OF TOURISM that you should be honored, recognized and awarded by our government for your stellar work. Our country could not get such positive exposure even if our government spent millions of dollars of advertising or marketing money on US soil. I am genuinely and greatly excited to see the outcome of my attempts to have you receive the recognition by the people of Turkey.
With respect,
Cem Onur
Cem Onur <email>
Miami Beach, FL USA 11/17/2008
art treasures
In listening to your program about collecting the art treasures reclaimed after WW II, I fondly recall my father-in-law's stories about being hired by the U.S. State Dept, to help collect treasures that were not located -- one being the Nefertiti.
His name was Johann (Hans) von Schmidt auf Altenstadt, and he was a prisoner of war in Indonesia and India during the war. In 1945 he was put on a ship and dumped in Hamburg, so he walked home to Frankfurt. Subsequently, he was hired by the U.S. State Dept to help collect art treasures. He found the Nefertiti in a cave and carried it out personally. Of course, today it is in Berlin.
After completing his job, he flew to Washington, D.C. to make his report. That was the end of his job. However, many new job offers awaited him. He chose the Portland Art Museum in Portland, Oregon, and worked for them for 25 years until his retirement and return to Germany. He never tired of telling that story. He died in the 1980's.
CvS
OR USA 11/10/2008
European Travel
I was introduced to Europe in 1993 at age 16 when I opted to go on a partial exchange that summer. I had been fortunate enough to express my travel wishes to my teachers at school, who helped me find AFS, which in turn awarded me a scholarship for a 6 week program abroad. What an eye-opener for a teenager from the midwest! I chose to go to "Eastern Europe," which included stays in Budapest, the Hungarian countryside, Bratislava, 2 smaller towns in Slovakia, Prague, and Olomouc, Czech Republic. My host family in Hungary (town of Pecsudvard) spoke no English, I spoke no Hungarian, but picked up a few words from my stay with them. They were very welcoming and nice people who had 2 teenage kids I assumed were close in age to me. I remember my trip there very fondly and would love to go back to Hungary, especially Budapest. My first trip abroad created a life-long love of travel, and I am lucky enough to have a husband who shares my enthusiasm. We took our honeymoon in Italy (with Rick's advice), and are planning a spring trip to France. So excited, and love reading all the travel stories on this site.
Shana
Chicago, IL USA 11/06/2008
Turkey: Beyond Istanbul
Greetings: I am listening to Rick and Meli talk about Turkey. Sadly, I cannot call in (the program is not 'live' today).
I just wanted to note that in addition to being an amazing tour guide Meli is an accomplished and published photographer. Two years ago I signed up for her tour of Ephesus - what a joy!
In our conversations over the two days I found out about her other talents. Discovering my interest in photography, she arranged our times around the 'best light' and 'best sight lines' - amazing!
I hope to go to Turkey this summer or next, signing on to one of her select photography tours.
Meli is the BEST!
Sheila
Sheila <email>
Cornelius (west of Portland), OR USA 11/02/2008
French Onion Soup
A big thank you to Rick and the team for making the radio show available on podcast. I'm a frequest flier, er, listener. Yesterday I listened to one of the earlier shows about European Comfort Foods, and enjoyed hearing Rick and Arnault discussing Parisian cuisine. My wife and I visited Paris for the first time and had dinner at Le Bosquet. No surprise that half the guests were Americans with their Rick Steve's guidebooks, so hopefully the waiters did not think too badly of me that I ordered the French Onion soup in June. I now understand how much of a cliche this was, but am all the richer for the experience. My first bite was heaven. One of those rare moments in life when everything was perfect - I literally forgot to breathe. That moment was and is one of the highlights of all my travels. While I will always try to be a "temporary local", for the onion soup, I will gladly be called a tourist.
Michael
Sacramento, CA USA 10/16/2008
Oct.11 Podcast
I'm Jones'n for the most recent podcast. Where is it? not on itunes.
Albert
USA 10/16/2008
Fred Plotkin
What a delightful surprise to find, in the recent archives, an entire hour devoted to this interesting author and Italian food authority. Back in 1995, I had the good fortune of meeting him rather serendipitously in the coastal village of Camogli while he was researching his book on foods of the Ligurian region of Italy ("Recipes from Paradise"). My traveling companion and I enjoyed two thoroughly enjoyable and memorable evenings with him: one at a restaurant in a neighboring village, where he educated our palates on the unique features of the foods of the region, and the next in his apartment overlookig the Camogli fishing harbor, where he used as us more-than-willing testers (and tasters) of a couple of his developing recipes. The food was memorable, as was the company. (And yes, basil was a featured element of both meals.) I can't wait to get this latest book!
Pat Hillegonds <email>
Kapaa, HI USA 10/14/2008
European Explorers of America
I was listening to Rick's radio show on European explorers and thought they left out one. When visiting north-central Minnesota, I found a small museum about a stone etched with old Norse writing in Alexandria, MN. It appeared true evidence that Norsemen were there more than 500 years ago. The writing was just about common things like the number of men and provisions, not anything crazy.
This seems ignored by historians of North America. Shouldn't this have been included in places to visit that show Europeans' early presence here?
I found my replica of the stone. It is called the Kensington Runestone, and is in the Runestone Museum in Alexandria, MN. It was found by a farmer in 1898. The stone has a date of 1362 on it. Very interesting, and I don't have a clue as to why it is ignored.
Joe
Columbus, OH USA 10/13/2008
Iran
I can't understand how a sign reading 'Girls above 9 must adhere to Islamic dress code' translates into 'We want women to be respected in our society'. It goes along the same line of thinking that blames the woman if she is the victim of rape.
I'm not from an Islamic country, although I can say my dad raised me with such an influence, I did not feel loved nor respected. It's more about the girl or woman representing the man, being his property if you will, and the man not wanting someone else looking at 'the goods'. It is not beautiful nor loving, for a girl to grow up in that environment is terrifying.
I think we have it right in America, crimes against females happen but I never was disrespected by someone in the street no matter what I was wearing (maybe in one or two occasions and all instances were men who were not American).
I live in Spain, and again, European men have never disrespected me in the street, I cannot say the same for men from Morocco, Egypt and Algeria (I speak from my own experience in Spain and France, sorry if I can't be politically correct).
This Islamic mentality is similar to some aspects of Christianity, blame the woman, because men cannot be held responsible for their actions.
Anon
Madrid, Spain 10/07/2008
Iran-and a what if question
Today's session on Iran answers the question what a Rick Steves visit to Nazi Germany in 1938 would have been...perhaps with Anne Morrow Lindberg as a guide.
Not any travel discussion...simply a gosh don't worry about their politics...
How naive!
C.R.
Bakersfield, CA USA 10/04/2008
Iran show
Interesting program about Iran but i dont agree with the somewhat rosey picture of that country painted by you and Abdi.Iran's government is on the verge of perpetuating another Holocaust in regards to the members of the Baha'i faith, the largest minority religion in the country.This is the first time since Nazi Germany that the State is going after a defenseless segment of the population with absolutely no recourse available to them. Simply advising the Baha'is to stay out of Iran was somewhat insulting Steve, I suggest trying to tell the 300,000 Bahai's currently living there under unimaginable hardship. My wife and I have been very loyal fans of your work for many years and do not travel without consulting your guidance, but I felt that you trivialized this issue in your show and I felt offended. I hope you can find a way to ammend your comments on this issue to your listeners,
Ali Agahi
Ali Agahi <email>
visalia , Ca USA 10/04/2008
Iran program
I can't believe you described Iran as "not wanting their women to be disrespected." Rather, they don't want their women to play an equal role in society!! They totally disrespect their women by not allowing them an independent existence apart from a man (who must be responsible for them)! This is the ultimate disrespect.
Sheila Quinn <email>
Gig Harbor, WA USA 10/04/2008
Iran and the environment
While the subjects of women and politics are fascinating I am interested in the environment - is there any sense of protecting it, are the birds and plant life species suffering? What about the stray animals - dogs and cats are they treated kindly. The owned animals - donkeys and livestock are well care for? Recently there was a "fatwa" about humane slaughter would like to hear more about that. Maybe not as bad in Iran but I read that in Saudi the men are so bored because there is no where they can for entertainment at night they drive around in their cars just to have something to do. With gas being 52 cents a gallon all can afford to do this. Is it as bad in Iran? May all countries protect the causes of women, children and the animals and environment as well. Inshallah!
Eileen Weintraub
Lake Forest Park, WA USA 10/04/2008
Iran programme
Visiting Seattle from the UK, Steve, and listened to your programme with great interest -- good show. Some of the comments already posted reveal how brain-washed Americans are about Iran because they only get their information from the rabble-rousing mainstream media which has a vested interest in whipping up fear and antagonism against Iran.
A couple of your remarks made me smile. You spoke of how university professors "kiss up" to the authorities in order to keep their jobs. Do you think academics in the US don't live under the self-same constraints? If they show dissent or buck the system how long do you think they'd last? A week at most. Americans (and UK citizens for that matter) prattle on about how "free" they are in comparison with countries like Iran -- and it's a fiction. US professors "kiss up" to the authorities as much as anyone else or they wouldn't have a job.
Also, you mentioned several times that Iran had made threats to Israel. Funny you never thought to mention that Israel has over 200 illegally held nuclear weapons (funded by the US) that could wipe out Iran in 48 hours. Imagine, Steve, that you lived next door to an unfriendly country that had all that nuclear arsenal that could obliterate you in a trice. How would YOU feel? Yet not a whisper on your otherwise excellent programme.
Keep up the good work.
best regards --
Trevor
Rochdale is in the UK, not USA
Trevor Hoyle
Rochdale, Lanc USA 10/04/2008
David Sedaris Show
It was a great idea to interview David Sedaris about living abroad. It doesn't hurt that he's one of the most engaging people alive, but Rick's ability to ask the questions that would interest the rest of us really made it such an interesting, entertaining, and informative show. All the programs are great, but departing from the usual format once in a while like this is terrific. Now, if Rick could only help me persuade my wife to move to France with me for few months...
Allen
Marietta, GA USA 10/01/2008
Berlin Music Tour!!!!!
Great section on Berlin...
If a music fan, check out www.musictours-berlin.com Fritz music tours, run by Thilo. Depeche Mode, Bowie, Iggy, Nick Cave, U2 Etc Etc Etc.
Tell him WIlliam from Legion Within in Seattle sent you.
William Wilson <email>
Seattle, WA USA 09/27/2008
Tour of Germany
My son and I just got back from traveling all over Germany. I can't thank Rick enough for highlighting the rooms in the Residenz in Munich. Room 95 with the relics was amazing and we would have never found it if Rick hadn't written what was in there which made me determined to find it. We did wish we had know more about Oktoberfest. First, reserve your seat in a beer tent for about 11:30am to 4 to 5pm before you leave the states it is so worth it. This will help make sure you get in and experience the real fun. Wear layers it gets hot in the beer halls. The parade ends at noon at the Oktoberfest grounds so it is best to see it there at the first beer tent because the bands leave the parade route and go into their own beer halls so there isn't live music before then. If you are older you may not want to go to the Hofbrauhaus beer tent because it is a lot of young people and very rowdy. We went and took pictures at every beer tent. If you forget to make your reservation get to the Oktoberfest grounds before 9am and stand in line and you might get in.
The beer halls are free. We made the mistake along with some friends to follow the crowd and we paid 25 euros each to get into the area we thought were the beer halls only to find out it was a home/farm show that was showing farm equipment, irons and vacuums etc.
I could go on and on about the different places we visited like Berlin which was amazing and has changed so much since I last visited it when I was 18. Buchenwald which you need at least two hours to visit. Linderhof Castle of Ludwig II and the fountains etc. The biggest language challenge was the menus to order food. Luckily several people spoke a little English nad I had Ricks German language book.
Thanks Rick
Warmest Wishes
Mary Langsdorf
Mary Langsdorf <email>
Wake Forest, NC USA 09/26/2008
David Sedaris interview
I wanted to express my gratitude and delight with your choice of David Sedaris for today’s show. Aside from some travel related things/tips, it mostly a fun romp and I’m sure that I, like most of your fans and clients, never thought that I would learn of the vagina’s gender through Rick Steves. It had me laughing out loud and curious about how much negative feedback it might draw. Hopefully none.
I used your guide books on my recent trip to Italy and just mailed my boss your Ireland book. He’s in St. Louis and had not heard of your company. Anyway, from your great travel books and your progressive mind, expressed on the public square to our benefit, I wanted to let you know that I consider you a real treasure. Keep up the great work!
Rob
Everett, WA USA 09/20/2008
Baron Alderdice
Thank you for conducting such a wonderful, insightful interview with Baron Alderdice. I lived in Northern Ireland for 3 years and I enjoy hearing from leaders from the region with positive, progressive views. I am very impressed that you, Rick, are so broad-thinking to have somebody like Baron Alderdice on your programme. Many Americans have no clue what is going on, or what did go on in the North of Ireland; your programme is a wonderful resource for learning about contemporary issues throughout the world. I love all of your radio podcasts-- especially the ones concerning Ireland!
Best wishes!
Courtney <email>
Austin, TX USA 09/14/2008
Lord alderdice
Poor choice of guests on this one. Lord Alderdice had nothing to do with travel.
That show was one big philosophy lesson, please get back to Travel.
Al <email>
Saginaw, MI USA 09/09/2008
Lord Alderdice
As an avid traveler i love your radio show. Your program with Lord Alderdice was especially interesting and i appreciate you having discussions beyond the "where to go and how to get there". His comment about Saddam needing to "save face" made an impression. Americans are so egocentric most don't take the time to find out how other cultures think. Our way is not the only way. Imagine how many lives we could have saved if we had approached the Iraq situation differently. To say nothing of the billions of dollars that could have been put into our failing intrastructure. Thanks for all you do.
Terry <email>
Oregon City, OR USA 09/07/2008
Trip to Itay
Dear Rick,
Thank you for your Italy book. My family and I traveled there at the end of July to the 1st of Aug. The only hotel that I did not pick from you book was the worst. The hotel in Venice, Hotel Campiello was just perfect. The hotel in Florence was more than we could ask for. Sergio and Lorenzo could not do enough for us. No matter what we asked they would either anwser it or find the anwser. The hotel il Villino was a dream come true. We also at a few resturants in Florence, for lunch Sergio told of a very good resturant just down the street, but for dinner we found the best in you book. It was Trattoria la Burrasca, we had the best time there. Thanks so much you made the trip so much fun and easy. The Spinelli's
Carol Spinelli <email>
Baden, PA USA 09/06/2008
Lord Andyce
Lord Andyce was a terrific guest. I recommend that he talk to our US congress and the 4 candidates. Because we do not need more war. Our economy is in such a slump now and we are spending needless money on it.
Joan Judge Mirabal <email>
Dallas, TX USA 09/06/2008
Alderdice
I am not a routine listener to your programs, but came across today's interview with Lord Alderdice. It was am amazing, and heartening, interview. I will be sure to tune in to future shows. Thank you for seeking out someone like him.
P. Dowden
Seattle, WA USA 09/06/2008
Lord John Alderdyce
I usually have your program on, largely because I tend to listen to NPR all Saturday long. Mostly I am vaguely aware of your show, and sometimes I learn a few helpful hints. But not today. I was riveted by your hour-long interview with Lord Alderdyce. I suggest you send a CD of today's show to both Obama and McCain.
Richard Karnes
Mercer Island, WA USA 09/06/2008
The European Union
Your show is usually full of helpful travel information but now I must protest that you are in danger of being carried away by your pro-EU
enthusiasm. You appear unaware that though many Europeans like and respect their neighbouring countries, they do not wish to be governed by a remote elite in Brussels, which is not elected and increasingly disregards democracy itself, refusing to accept the results of the few referendums allowed by some nation states on the continuing enlargement of EU power. Indeed in Britain, which you appear to know well, over 70% of the population view it negatively. Many cannot name a single Commissioner or even their own EU representative (MEP). The majority were (mis)led to believe the EU was "merely" an economic project to facilitate easier trading; not, as Monnet himself intended, an eventual total political union with all ruling powers accruing to the EU in Brussels - which would be "hidden from the people" for as long as possible by proceeding with small incremental steps, Previous attempts at European unification were tried by Charlemagne, Napolean and Hitler and many today believe the current artificial welding together of completely disparate nation states cannot endure for long against their peoples' wishes.
P.S. In describing the composition of the House of Lords, Lord Alderdice neglected to mention that many of today's members include political cronies of past and present govts.,(commonly called "Cash for Favors" and still under investigation by the Police) whereas in the more distant past, one of the questionable advantages of the hereditary peers was that they were far less likely to be "bought" by the lure of title, power or money.
alex
seattle, WA USA 09/06/2008
Why didn't Sadam say he had no nukes
Sept. 6 show - FYI...Your guest suggested that Sadam Husain did not want to be humiliated so he did not allow inspections. I heard elsewhere on NPR that he did not want Iran to know he didn't have WMD, fearing an attack from Iran...no bearing on US opinion/face saving
Thessalonika
Seattle, WA USA 09/06/2008
Travel in the Middle East show
Yesterday I listened to the show about the books written by a woman and a gay man who traveled in the Middle East.
The lessons and insights that they learned were could have been gained by reading about two Englishmen who found ways to become part of the Arab/Middle Eastern culture. Sir Richard Burton, not the actor :), and TE Lawrence learned these lessons many decades ago.
Last week I read Lowell Thomas's book 'With Lawrence in Arabia' and found that his insights about how women fit into the Arab culture at the time are mirrored by what the woman writer found decades later.
The Thomas character was written into the 'Lawrence of Arabia' movie as a reporter. Burton's biography is incredible! Both of these men passed themselves off as Arab. Burton could do a better job because he had dark eyes. Lawrence learned the customs and languages and earned respect.
In Thomas's book his last chapter, 'Art of handling Arabs' gives some great insights about how to be a good traveler. Heck, I learned some good things about being a better friend or supervisor too!
Tom
Tom <email>
Dallas, TX USA 08/31/2008
Where's McDonalds?
The recent podcast of budget travel tips overlooked a good source of meeting local residents while keeping costs down - eating at Subway, McDonalds, and its European counterpart Quick. I found that similar to the U.S., young people tend to frequent these places. They are friendly and eager to use their English. I've also gotten into good discussions about politics and day-to-day life issues. The prices are usually within $1 U.S., making it easy to remain thrifty. Of course, cafes and bistros so often advocated in the Rick Steves programs are wonderful but frankly, I've enjoyed my fast food dining experiences more. Try it on your next trip.
Michael <email>
Clearfield, PA USA 08/05/2008
NATURAL AREAS OF THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS
I wish to recommend NATURAL AREAS OF THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS (located in the Straits of Juan de Fuca in WA state and Canada) by Terry Domico, a biologist who has lived and worked in the islands for over 20 years.
Listed are sites which are accessible and defensible (so they can be respectfully enjoyed without destroying them) that guide the reader to uniquely native flora and fauna in some of the most beautiful locations in the islands.
Included are maps, photos, facilities, access (many by car or state ferries, some by boat or kayak) and an explanation about how nature lives with itself and with human neighbors.
E. Pawl <email>
Seattle, WA USA 08/02/2008
Jamaica Is Dangerous
I listened with dismay to the radio podcast interview with Oliver Hill, the author of the Moon handbook to Jamaica. Jamaica is a dangerous destination full of violence
targeted at tourists and a nation in which homophobic violence is totally out of control. The government of this island nation seems to turn a blind eye to the frequent violence and murder of gays and lesbians. As a travel agency owner I have implemented an office
policy of never arranging travel to Jamaica for any of my clients due to the safety concerns and instead refer them to a safer Caribbean destination such as the Virgin Islands or
Cayman Islands. My grandparents were the victims of crime in Jamaica when they were robbed at knife point by a taxi driver several years ago. Recently I had the chance to give an earful to a representative of the
Jamaica tourism industry at a local travel trade show and was informed that he often heard this same complaint about the danger to tourists but that there was little that he could do. Until the government of Jamaica takes a stronger stand to combat violence I will continue my boycott without apology. Avoid Jamaica!
Alex <email>
Chapel Hill, NC USA 07/30/2008
Olympics Wash State
The route 66 and Life book show failed to mention the Olympic Mountains in Washington. I just climbed Mt Townsend. The view from the top included Mt Rainer, Baker, Olympus, Victoria and other parts of Canada. It was magnificent. Hiku Golden Eagles, Mountains water, wild flowers, unending beauty
Ann Richey <email>
Bremerton, Wa USA 07/13/2008
Bad Advice from the Artist in Africa
In the "An Artist's Impressions of Africa," a caller asked where to find up to date information about the safety and security in Africa countries. The artist's horrible advice was to check with your travel agent! Not only was his advice awful, but I can't believe that Rick Steves did not correct him and advise listeners to check with the US State Deparment, an agency which maintains up to date travel warnings and advice.
Megan
An American in Hong Kong, HK HK 07/13/2008
Route 66 show
I LOVE your show, but I am utterly shocked that your guest during the Rte. 66 segment failed to mention Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman AZ. Nobody who's ever taken out of a Grand Canyon river trip has missed the chance to stop at Delgadillo's for ice cream or a burger, and for a big dose of corny 50's style decor and humor from the staff. It's about as "Mother Road" as you can get. It's too bad they don't have a website, but those guys are truly stuck in a bygone era!
Veronica
Durango, CO USA 07/07/2008
America the Beautiful
My vote for a worthy site for the America The Beautiful Life book is the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon. Not only is this a spectacular stretch of the Columbia River with spectacular waterfalls pouring off of lush basalt cliffs but it is also a significant part of the American west.
Lewis and Clark passed through here on their way to the ocean. But thousands of years before that Native American tribes lived here fishing the river for plentiful salmon and trading with tribes as far away as Idaho, at least until the Boneville Dam was built, burying Celilo Falls, their best fishing spot. This was also where emigrants following the Oregon Trail caught the downstream barges into the Willamette Valley. It is a beautiful spot where history from many directions collide the have impacted our country.
Jodi Lorimer
Portland, OR USA 07/06/2008
Tony Wheeler's Lonely Planet
I just want to say that the show with Tony Wheeler on Lonely Planet was fantastic I have read Unlikely Deatanations : The Lonely Planet Story best travel read ever, Lonely Planet is awsome my dream is to work for them someday.
Babak Pakravan
Lawrence, KS USA 07/03/2008
vaseline in the nose
A little-known fact of medical concern is that vaseline in the nostrils becomes its own medical hazard, according to published research. Putting it in a nose, protectively or for dryness, was mentioned in today's section on travel medicine.
Think of vaseline as thick oil. It slowly spreads out over the surface it is placed on. From the nostrils, some of it runs downhill along the breathing passages into the lungs. There it accumulates; it is not metabolized, and it doesn't easily become part of the mucus you cough up.
As you can imagine, over time it will fill up spaces. Perhaps dust and biological particles will stick to it. At its worst, a chemical pneumonia can result. This is a reason the Vicks Vap-O-Rub type products tell you not to put it in your nostrils.
Would one exposure hurt you? Unlikely, but over time it really has the potential to reduce your ability to breathe.
So, how to moisturize dry, sore nasal passages? Get your doctor's advice, but for starters, don't be rubbing at it repeatedly. Try breathing normally, but through a moistened (with water) bandana or hankie. (If it's dusty or otherwise hazardous, you can make a very effective mask by tying it around your noggin. You can even put a single thickness across your upper face and still see through it adequately for survival purposes.) (If you're using Vicks-type stuff, keep it outside your nostrils and the aroma will still be adequate to whatever actual medicinal value it will have.)
So there!
davy B, RN
david bockoven <email>
fresno, CA USA 06/28/2008
moistening your nose while traveling
Now that I think of it, breathing through a moist bandana isn't the only protective upper respiratory thing to do (but if your're doing it, remember to keep re-moistening as it dries out).
Along with washing your face, you can perform a nasal douche twice a day. This is unknown in the West, but a common hygiene practice in some places, such as South Asia. Flushing your nostrils this way has been shown to reduce the incidence of some illnesses like the common cold.
Use mildly salty water - the right proportion won't sting the way it stings when you get a blast of fresh (or hyper-salty) water up your nose. You can buy the bottled product ("Ocean Spray" or whatever) but I find it more pleasant to make my own salt water with warm tap water. Pour it into your palm, lean over the sink, snort it up, blow it out (don't hold one nostril closed or anything; just snort and blow), and repeat until it flows easy and no snot is returning.
I'll bet if you practice this twice a day - like after brushing your teeth - for a couple of weeks, you will have a more comfortable nose and fewer cases of flu. You'll think, "why don't we health-phobic Westerners already know about this?"
So there again!
davy B, RN
david bockoven <email>
fresno, CA USA 06/28/2008
Kalmar and Oland Sweden
My wife and took design tours to Sweden for a number of years. I think often this part is ignored for the more glamorous gloass district. There is so much to see there. Go the last Sat. night of September for the fall festival to find farms open with art exhibits. We had dinner with the cows in one farm with fine china and lace table cloths. There is the notion that the Swedes are boring and droll. They are crazy and fun. I love Sweden.
Bob Purser <email>
Bellevue, WA USA 06/21/2008
Traveling with Kids
Can I add one more very important point about our experience traveling with a young child?
All of our European trips are guided by the best... Rick's guidebooks! I truly appreciate the time and energy-saving tips and advice about our destinations, as this allows us to have more time and energy to prepare for the "journey" with our child.
Thank you for addressing one of my favorite topics-TRAVELING WITH KIDS- on your radio show. It was a pleasure to meet you and of course- your talented producer Tim!
I am looking forward to meeting the traveling parents/grandparents who attend our free "Jet with Kids" travel class (at Rick's European Travel Center in Edmonds, WA) on Saturday, June 21.
And of course, I will be picking up the 2008 guidebooks for our upcoming trip - Belgium, France, Germany, with a stop in Prague!
Thanks again Rick-
See you next week!
Anya Clowers, RN <email>
CA USA 06/11/2008
Slovakia
I just heard rick talk about slovakia a little on the radio and I wanted to encourage him to talk more about this country. I was a peace corps volunteer in Levoca, Republic in 1990 and it was a remarkable place. Levoca is in the eastern part of the country near Kosics and easily accessible to Krakow which I visited a couple times. It takes one day to get from Bratislova all the way across the country to Kosice.
It is truly a cool country and the Peace corps is no longer there. They have internet and cell phones and good beer and very friendly people. I recommend more information for poor Americans on this destination.
Cheryl B
Kent, WA USA 06/10/2008
Kids in Italy
Whatever the pain of traveling with kids, we found the Italians were thrilled to see a family. The fact we had our kids with us seemed to bring out the nurturing feelings of the families that owned the restaurants. They brought us free food and teased the girls and were wonderful. Having the bambinos in tow was a real ice breaker.
Other Lesson learned: Give the kids a chance to recover from the trip. We hired a guide to take us to the Vatican and scheduled the tour for three hours after we hit our B&B near St. Peters. We nearly had a great story about our daughter vomiting in front of the Gorgon head statue in the Vatican Museum (the statue on the front of Edith Hamilton's mythology book). Slow it down and go for quality over quantity.
Good show!
Chris K
Seattle, WA USA 06/10/2008
Anesthesia conference, Amesterdam
What a great trip we had using Rick Steve's guides to Germany, Austria, Brugges and Amsterdam where we atteneded an anesthesologist's conference. Most all the attendees had Rick Stev's guidebooks so we all traded tips of what we had read or had done during the trip. We actually got a great picture of one of the attendess of the conference in Munich while she was reading the guide and viewing the sights. Keep up the good work!
Stephen Bohusz <email>
Clermont, FL USA 06/09/2008
Travelling with kids
My son is now 13 and we've been traveling and living abroad since he was an infant. A couple things I'd like to mention that might be helpful:
1) Parents need to be aware that the rules around passports for minors have changed. Both parents now have to appear in person and sign off on passport. If that's not possible, the applying parent must present either a notorized document from the other parent expressly giving permission for issuing the passport or documentary evidence of sole custody or make a good case why the other parent is not available. The logic behind this new rule (since 2002) is to prevent a parent absconding with the child. But it has not been well publicized and parents need to be aware in case they need to make special arrangements.
2) For young children, especially infants and toddlers who are especially vulnerable to ear pain on takeoff and landings, I heartily recommend Ear Planes. These are ear plugs that equalize air pressure. This little item was a godsend for my son and he still insists on wearing them. They work for adults as well. I don't know why more parents don't know about them. In my experience, they're magical. They're available in most drug stores and major supermarkets now, but you may have to look for them.
3) I echo the notion that traveling with kids gives you a very different, and much more real, experience of other cultures. Kids are a people-magnet, especially for other kids, and people's behavior is much more revealing.
4) I took my son to Eastern Europe to live when he was 2 (for 6 weeks) and between 3-7. It was a great experience and I recommend it. It's much easier to do this when kids are pre-school or early primary school age. It provides an invaluable life experience.
Rita M
Portland, OR USA 06/09/2008
Cheap Lodging in London
When I went to London, I found lodging through "London Homestays" and got a room with a family. It was cheap and included breakfast and was pretty close to the tube. And it was neat to stay with a British family, I had great conversations with them about politics, the monarchy, etc.
Here's the link for the program I booked through:
http://www.uk-homestay.com/
Kelly
Vancouver, WA USA 05/25/2008
Sharing Normandy with the Next Generation
Appreciated the program on Normandy. I think the experience needs to be shared with the very young generation. I had the pleasure of taking the Texas Children's Choir to perform at the National Cemetery at Omaha Beach for the White House 60th Anniversary D-Day ceremonies in 2004. After they sang their concert for the American and French presidents and 10,000 veterans and their families, they were "adopted" by veterans who took each of the young singers to where they had landed on the beaches in 1944, and shared their entire experiences with them. The children have grown quite a bit since then and are now writing about their Normandy experiences in their high school history classes. We won't get to have many more commemorative ceremonies if we don't involve the next generation now before those veterans are gone.
Thomas Hardaway <email>
San Antonio, TX USA 05/20/2008
The death of a Pope
I love the show and never miss a podcast, but have to say something about the recent Rome show.
I couldn't disagree more about not being in Rome if the Pope dies :-)
My mother and I arrived in Rome the day after the death of John Paul II and it was absolutely the best time to be there. The city was very clean (getting fancied-up for the world's media), felt very safe (was full of police to take care of the world's bigwigs) and we didn't line up for one single 'sight' (because everyone was at St. Peters and we had the Forum, Coliseum etc to ourselves).
It was absolutely brilliant. On our first day we went to the Vatican and spent time with the mourners but then after that we were on our own once we'd swum against the crowd out of our apartment - they were all heading to the Vatican and we were heading to the Capitol!
We were very worried prior to going, thinking it was going to be a total madhouse, but it was the best time to be there. Obviously it's not an easy thing to plan, but don't be put off if the Pope happens to die before you arrive!!
Thanks again for all the brilliant podcasts and travel ideas, I really enjoy the show.
Annabelle
Australian living in Germany 05/15/2008
Istanbul Radio Show
I'm listening to the show about Istanbul and just wanted to correct a statement that Rick made. He just mentioned that when India and Pakistan were partitioned this was done b/c Pakistan wanted to be a Muslim nation and India a Hindu nation. Independent India was designed to have a secular form of government - as is evident both if one reads their Constitution (which declares that they are a secular republic) as well as takes even a cursory look at the history of Independence (including the fact that the constituent assembly that drafted the Constitution was made up of delegations which included those from the Muslim League). Just wanted this mistake to be noted.
Yamuna
Columbus, OH USA 05/04/2008
Tapestries at Chateau d'Ecouen
A question was asked on your recent radio program on Paris where textiles might be found. In the Chateau d'Ecouen is a wonderful Brussels tapestry woven in 1515 which is displayed over three rooms and tells the story of David and Bathsheba. It's excellent, and I'm surprised it's not displayed in Paris itself.
Chateau d'Ecouen is easily accessed from Paris from Gare du Nord. Take the train to Ecouen-Ezanville, just a 23 minute ride in Carte Orange Zone 4. The Chateau is closed on Tuesdays.
This trip is included in the book An hour from Paris by Annabel Simms.
Lorrie
Cincinnati, Ohio USA 04/23/2008
our superlative sunny Sunday in Dublin
We were docked in Dublin on a Sunday in July '04. Our dear friend had booked us for Sunday brunch in the Shelborne Hotel, where the harp music made us feel we had arrived in heaven.
Afterwards, we wandered over to St. Stephen's Park across from the hotel for an outdoor concert. We sat on the grass with all the Dubliners, enjoying the (rare) sunshine, camaraderie and music. My husband went back to the ship with a tan - an unexpected souvenir from our Sunday outing.
We also went to a store with only Irish products - excellent souvenirs.
I would go back tomorrow.
Erin Go Brach!
Elaine M
Boca Raton, FL USA 04/14/2008
China
I was disappointed that Rick barely touched on the human rights abuses of China, and largely allowed his guests to whitewash China's government.
I'm not going to discourage people from going there, but if you're going to broach the subject of the government and corruption, please check with Human Rights Watch to see what's actually going on, and don't just let guests broadcast misleadingly positive views of the Chinese government.
T
New York, NY USA 04/14/2008
Washington DC
America's capital - a city of paradoxes! Tour the residence of the leader of the free world-and visit the world's embassies. Visit the capital building where the 13th ammendment was passed under a dome ornament built by slaves. See 200 years of First Ladies' innagural gowns or the moon rockets! Your federal income taxes support most of the city's attractions, so DC can be a budget vacation.
Carol D
USA 04/07/2008
Children and travel
I got my bug to travel back in 1979 when I took a "Europe Through the Back Door" class and my husband and I have traveled frequently since.
A couple of years ago we took an entire year off and did an around the world trip with our then 12 and 14 year old boys. We camped through Europe in September and October, which was fabulous, and then traveled inexpensively through many developing nations in Asia and Central and South America. The boys loved it, as did we, and all I can say is GO! It was the best investment we ever made.
Kathleen P
Kingstson, WA USA 04/07/2008
Paris visits backstage at small artisan shops
I found a small company that arranges visits to all sorts of small producers, sellers, and crafts people. As a result, I was at Girard Mulot watching them make macarrons and chocolate covered orange peel. I also visited the bakery of Arnaud Delmontel, who won the "best baguette" award (Concours pour la Meilleure Baguette de Paris). You can visit jewelry designers, book binders, etc., not just food makers.
For a small fee, from 5-10 Euros per person, you spend up to an hour meeting the artisan and watching behind the scenes. Tours are in English and French. It`s called Meeting the French They also arrange much longer visits and events, and B&B stays, but I have no experience with those. The short visits are called "company visits" on the English version of the website: MeetingTheFrench.com.
This is a small agency partnered with the Paris tourist office. The owner and her chief guide are both delightful. I highly recommend this company and their mini-visits for a really different Paris experience.
Randy
Seattle, WA USA 04/05/2008
National Parks Road Trip with Kids
I took two boys on a 6-week road trip last year to National Parks - Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Tetons. My boys fell in love with the nightly ranger programs. They became the highlight of every day. National parks rock!
James
Seattle, WA USA 03/31/2008
Ricky on the Radio!!!
Rick on the radio is simply magical. I was thrilled with his videos and his television shows but now that he is on the radio, I can listen to Rick 24/7!
He has such good advice for vacationing. I've always wanted to meet up with him while he is filming. This may sound silly, but it is one of my life goals! I'll keep traveling until we finally meet =]
In conclusion...
Rick = Life
Heidi H.
Chicago, IL USA 03/27/2008
Dublin
On the podcast, Rick and his guest said that the main National Museum of Ireland was on Kildare Street. The other National Museum of Ireland is actually on the other side of Dublin near the Jameson distillery (Aston Quay). The Collins Barracks National Museum houses the decorative arts and historical artifacts collection. There one will see examples of historic weaponry, furniture, silver, ceramics and glassware. On Kildare Street, the National Museum houses the Archaelogical & History section of the museum--over 2,000,000 artefacts which range in date between 7000BC and the late medieval period. In sum, there actually two National Museums of Ireland, both of which should not be missed. Also, I Jameson distiller and the Smithfield area deserved a mention!
I agree with the prevous post on Dublin; it would have been better to have a "Dub" narrate the podcast, as opposed to an individual from the North of Ireland, even though he was very informed about Dublin. It would have been amusing to discuss "Dublinisms" and Dublin slang.
Courtney <email>
Austin, TX USA 03/26/2008
Saturday 3/15 program on Ireland
3 quick comments ...
1. Trinity College is Irelands oldest University but it is not the leading in terms of all academics as Steve inferred with the "Ivy League" comment. Remember while the republic of Ireland has many third level institutions - it has only has 7 Universities amongst them. Each then have a very high standard of limited admission - and each have respective specialities that out rank the other in terms of admission standards. Also Trinity does not cost marginally any more to attend as it too is a state sponsored school. I should know I'm a graduate of same.
2. Irish Army: Rick should be aware that the Irish army is primarily a Defence Force and while small is very well trained - with a special forces section and general services that serve at home and fyi abroad in more than 20 countries - primarily UN - but most recently in the EU force to Chad - where an Irish Army General has overall command of the 6000 member enforcement force. Also the army has begun training within the Nordic section of the EU's rapid deployment force - completing recent field exercises in Sweden.
3. while your Irish guest was fairly well informed on matters - it was rather odd to have a non Dublin (northern ireland in fact) commentator speaking about that subject. I'd suggest a more appropriate voice on future programs.
Thanks for your good work on this and other programmes.
Michael
Michael
Bellevue, WA USA 03/17/2008
Berlin
How amazing to turn on Rick's radio program and hear the voice of Nigel, our excellent guide in Berlin, Prague, and Vienna (fall 2007). We appreciated his deep knowledge of Berlin when we visited there and have often thought in the months since of the vibrant, yet haunting quality of that city. Give him a raise, Rick - Nigel is great.
Virginia Scott <email>
Springfield, IL USA 03/08/2008
Italy
Loved all the info on Italy and wine making from Tour Queen Renee Restivo-can't wait to travel with her again to Sicily and then the Olive Harvest Tour.
Hattie Newman <email>
Stamford, cT USA 03/02/2008
Wales
Hi Rick,
I thoroughly enjoyed your program today on Wales and that other place, I didn't quite catch the name. Apart from the comments on Rhyl, which might be true, but still hurtful this being one of the holiday resorts for the mill workers from Lancashire.
Though now a US citizen I was raised in Prestatyn and went to school in Rhyl. A couple of other bits of information on North Wales (please note not Northern Wales). Gold was mined and panned from streams in Snowdonia and both the gold for the wedding rings of the Queen and Princess Margaret were gifts from the Welsh People. On a future visit to North Wales you might like to check out the hamlet of Gwynesgor, above Prestatyn which has one of the oldest churches in Wales. The walls lean outwards to represent Noah's Ark, and has a small 'leper' window, so the lepers could listen to the sermons from outside the church. Marks on the font are from the swords of local knights being sharpened before proceeding to the Crusades and a local pub is (or was when I lived there), called the 'Saracen's Head' possibly a war souvenir. The Roman's mined lead locally at Melidan. There is lots more but you might like to check it out for yourself.
Diolch yn fawr,
Chris Brooker
Chris Brooker
Renton, WA USA 03/01/2008
Traveling on your stomach: Everyday Italian cuisine
On the question of wine in Italy. Rick's guest was elaborating on Primitivo wine. He said it was related to Zinfandel. Rick clarified and said something like "you mean primitive wine?" and his guest said yes. I think there was something lost in translation.
Primitivo is actually a type of winegrape. It was brought to the United States by Italian immigrants and it is known in the US as Zinfandel. In the 1990's, Carol Meredith, a professor at UC Davis, found that the grape known as Primitivo in Italy is genetically indistinguishable from the Zinfandel winegrape now grown in California, Oregon, and Washington.
Maria Czarnecki
Mosier, OR USA 02/24/2008
New restaurant in Cortona, Italy
Our last meal in Italy was quite memorable.Having dined at the well known established places, a vintner recommended a new restaurant called "Dolce Maria"Every meal in Italy was great, but this was superior! The shellfish, salad, and steak were divine and beautifully presented. www.dolcemaria.it
Liz Dye <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA 02/23/2008
Errors of fact and emphasis in Tibet piece
I felt that the segment on Tibet today gave a very one-sided perspective. I am a Tibetan Buddhist who visited Tibet in 2006, just after the train started running. Tibet was a repressive, stagnant theocracy when the Chinese took over: now, just like the rest of China, it is modernizing at an astonishing rate, and that is not a bad thing (I particularly remember the solar panels on the backs of the nomad's yaks, charging their cell phones). I also felt there was a good deal of stereotyping of Chinese residents and tourists, many of whom come to China on their own spiritual searches and many of whom, I would say, are a good deal more devout than me. Many people forget that spirituality runs very deep in Chinese culture too.
Everyone in Tibet is free to practice their religion, and the majority of the population do, fervently. They also appreciate the material benefits the Chinese have brought (I still remember the wizened old lady circling the Barkhor with her prayer whell in one hand, taking a call on her cell phone with the other.) What the government does not tolerate, understandably, is any attempt to overthrow it, and in this respect the attitude of many Westerners, who express a desire to restore the Dalai Lama (which in my opinion would be a disaster - I would foresee mass deportations of Han citizens. It's often forgotten that many middle-aged Han citizens of Tibet were born there) is not reassuring them.
Your guest was also pretty ill-informed on a number of questions. It takes 3 days to get to Kailas, not 7: the electrical outlets are physically American but supply 240 volts not 120 so you will need a step-down transformer: the flights from Chengdu run every couple of hours, not every couple of days.
Actually, I have to say that I found the piece pretty racist.
For an account of my month in Tibet, see
http://lojongmindtraining.com/kailas/prelude.aspx
Martin <email>
Seattle, WA USA 02/16/2008
Rescuing DaVinci
I am listening to the fascinating show today (Feb 9) about the artworks of Europe being saved from German theft and destruction. My late friend Elias "Dutch" Schultz was a wood sculptor who'd studied in Europe on a GI Bill and, on a trip to the Louvre, saw a work done by his favorite German artist. It was mis-labelled with a French artist's name. He was upset and asked to speak to the curator. He was told that many works were intentionally mis-labelled so they would escape the notice of the Germans, and that this was one of several whose identities and provenance had not yet been corrected. Thought I'd add this interesting story to the fascinating story being told. Thanks for your show and for your great advice over the years.
Elizabeth R. <email>
Seattle, WA USA 02/02/2008
Caller who wants to live in Europe
Hi,
I just heard a caller on Travel with Rick Steves who wants to live in Europe with only a tourist visa. Rick and his guest advised the caller to cross into another country whenever his tourist visa was about to expire, and then cross back to get a new tourist visa. While this works in Asia, Africa, and South America, it doesn't work in Europe. The Schengen Agreement was signed by nearly all countries in Western Europe, and states that a visitor may only stay in the Schengen area for a total of 90 days per 360 day period. So, unfortunately, living in Europe without a residence permit is more complicated than Rick and his guest led the caller to believe. Good luck!
Caroline
Cincinnati, OH USA 01/26/2008
Rick Steves in Paris
A few years ago (summer of 2003 I think), my wife and I were enjoying a great vacation in Paris using Rick Steves book as our primary guide.
On one particularily beautiful Paris day we were walking in a neighborhood recommended by Rick's book and who was coming up the sidewalk towards us? None other than Rick Steves himself. He was gracious enough to say hello and sign our copy of his book. What a neat thing to happen while vacationing in Paris. We would like to again say thank-you Rick. You made our day.
Mike S. Bradshaw <email>
Deer Park, Texas USA 01/15/2008
I liked Umbria so much I bought an apartment there
In 2005 I took 3 months off from work, and traveled from Rome as far north as Padua, but spent 3 weeks of my first month in Umbria, east of Chiusi, in a small hill town called Panicale. During those 3 weeks I made several Italian friends and ex-patriots also.
My mid-life break-out ended when i put an offer on an apartment. This last year I spent 11 weeks there, working long distance via internet (I live in Portland, OR). Tomorrow I leave for Panicale again!
My advice is, stay in a place where you can cook, and try lots of the variety of produce. I always ask the mothers how to cook things I don't know. I'm looking forward to agreti in spring!
Your program is making my heart race even more, thinking of being back there! So I will make a plug also for the Umbrian hill towns, and also the Montefeltro country towards Urbino.
Gillian
Portlant, OR USA 01/14/2008
Dolomites!
What about the Dolomites! The town of Toblach near the Tre Cime is amazing! Don't forget the Dolomites!! AMazing hiking, huts, people, espresso!
Amy Petersen
Bend, OR USA 01/13/2008
WONDERFUL EUROPE
I took a long awaited trip to Europe last fall. The trip was wonderful. It was part business with lots of time afterwards to enjoy Munich,Paris and London.
One note, street signs are not on sign posts like in the US, they are on the side of buildings. I learned this quickly after arriving at my metro stop in Paris at 6:30am after taking the night train from Munich. Dark and rainy it took a little wandering to find the signs! Because of you're guidebooks I've got the confidence now to fulfill my travel dreams!
Thanks Rick!
Cindy Harper <email>
Parkville, MD USA 01/13/2008
Attractions in London
Hi,
On your programme to-day you were looking for attractions in London.
An attraction I can recommend is a visit to Chislehurst Caves. Chislehurst is in Kent and part of Greater London. The caves are next to Chislehurst railway station, about 20 minute train jouney from central London. Their history that goes back to before the Druids, through the Romans up to it's use as a air raid shelter during WW II, followed by a venue for rock bands in the 60's. The tour is illuminated by hurrican lamps carried by tour participants.
I have been several times, the first time in 1954 when I was 10.
It's not too expensive, and is fun.
Enjoy,
John
John Towler <email>
Bothell, WA USA 01/05/2008
new years
I just heard the new year's show. I had the pleasure of New Years in the Puerta del Sol in Madrid--just try to eat 12 grapes as the clock strikes the hour--after 6 I felt like a pelican--whose mouth holds more than his belly can
jerry braden <email>
Riverside, CA USA 01/03/2008
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 06/06/2007
server not responding
server wasn't responding today. couldn't listen to archived episodes.
JB
Forestville, CA USA 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 04/12/2007
French Celtic Connection
look at "Tristan and Isolde" to understand the Celtic connection: Ireland - Cornwall - Brittany
Karen S
USA 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 01/13/2007