Savvy Seniors
More and more retirees are tackling Europe. Is Europe friendly to older globetrotters? Please share any special deals, tricks, or advice.
- Please don't post questions here. Use our Travelers Helpline.
Paris, August 2008
A couple in our early 60s, we spent the long Labor Day weekend in Paris after a business trip to Lyon. It was my first trip, my husband's 8th--but first in over 10 years. Rick's Paris guidebook paid for itself before we reached our hotel, since studying it told me how to catch a bus from Gare Lyon to the Hotel Bonaparte. We bought a carnet of billets as soon as possible, and could have used two before we left, but even buying the occasional individual billet was a savings over taxis (or shoe leather.) The weather was perfect, so we enjoyed several of the walking tours in the book, tailoring them to our whim. We relied mostly on whim too when choosing places to eat, and on future trips will follow Rick's advice, and picnic more, and follow the natives! One under-appreciated gem we found was the Luxembourg Gardens, which we explored while waiting for 10:30 mass at St. Sulpice on Sunday morning (where there was indeed an organ concert): these gardens are splendid. We were likely the only tourists there at the time, but there were Parisians much in evidence, jogging, sunning, reading, doing tai chi; it was utterly wonderful.
Kim <email>
Saylorsburg, PA USA 09/10/2008
italy 2008
We are two couples, all in our early 60s, who visited Italy for two weeks in June 2008. We planned the trip by consulting friends who had been there; reading Rick's books; and searching web sources, including the Graffiti Wall. We did all our own booking of flights, hotel accommodations, car rental, and tours. We stayed in Rome, Assisi, Mestre near Venice, Levanto near Cinque Terre, and Siena, with our last night overlooking the sea in Lido de Ostia near Leonardo da Vinci airport. Along with the usual sites in Rome, we took the Scavi Tour, which takes small groups into the excavation area below St. Peter's Basilica. Tickets can be hard to acquire so we prepaid for ours on line and picked them up at the site. After considering the modest difference in price between the trains versus a taxi shuttle from the airport into Rome, we opted for the shuttle. The driver dropped us off at our hotel and then picked us up 3 days later. We reserved a rental car in advance. The shuttle driver delivered us directly to the car rental site at the airport. We drove the rest of the trip, all without incident, except for a couple of missed turns. The ability to wander here or there at our whim in the hill country was priceless. We purchased a GPS unit prior to the trip, which was indispensible. We retained the services of tour guides in Rome, Venice and Florence. In each case, we made reservations by email with the guide without paying anything in advance. They made all the ticket reservations. The longest we stood in line was about 10 minutes on just one occasion; otherwise, we bypassed every line. In Rome, our scheduled tour guide was ill, so he sent another in his place. Eric is an American who is pursuing higher education. He was quite knowledgeable but lacked experience as contrasted with the other guides. In Venice, we retained Elisabetta Morelli [bettamorelli@inwind.it], born and raised in Venice. She is bright, dynamic and full of knowledge. In Florence, we retained Rosalynd Pio [rosalynd@alice.it]. She is a retired professor originally from England but who has resided in Florence many years. She is highly intelligent, also full of knowledge and most delightful. Premised on comments by others on this site, we reserved a sunset cruise with Angelo and Paula Falconer [angelosboattours@yahoo.com]. Angelo put out his fishing boat from in front of their house in Monterosso, one of the Cinque Terre towns. Paula is an American who visited Monterosso several years ago and never went home after meeting Angelo. She promised tapas and sparkling wine, but failed to mention that there would be up to 10 or more different items on the menu! We highly recommend the event, even with the 75 euro per person price. We had a most delightful time.
norb <email>
mankato, mn USA 09/06/2008
Ask for a senior discount at all mueums etc. now in Germany we are saving on entrances just by asking. it has never been posted. just ask, also students too.
JS
USA 07/29/2008
austra;oa
As a senior (age 88 in April,2008) took
my daughter to Italy during Christmas and New Years Holiday. Venice/florence/rome/paris. We traveled by plane/bus and trains. Had
a fantastic time. If i got tired I took a cafe break.
I work out 3-4 days a week and stay in shape just so i can travel. Really does not matter what age you are you should be in good physical condition if you travel in europe.
Also, 2005 i went to Australia/New zealand and figi and a wonderful experience. DO NOT WAIT GO NOW.
TREKKER002
lorraine
atlanta, ga USA 05/24/2008
Amalfi Coast at age 66
I have just returned from a wonderful trip to Sorrento and Naples Italy and the Amalfi coast. I went as a guest of my daughter. This was truly a dream trip although physically demanding. It rained the first couple of days we were there. The streets and walks are all cobbled and often moss covered and often slippery. The area is all steep hills and steps. I think we walked about 10 miles daily up and down the steps and hills. The absolute best, well-fitting walking shoes are a MUST. Also the best walking socks. I wore Thorlo socks and they were a blessing. It is good to be in the best physical condition you can manage.The entire area is breathtaking in it's beauty. The Italians are wonderful, warm people who will enjoy you as much as you will enjoy them. I found the flights and airports to be much more taxing than the actual touring. IMHO flying has become an exercise in survival. Don't count on anyone helping you during the travel process. The airline employees seem to be overworked and short on patience. Plan ahead to care for yourself during the travel portion of your trip.
Linda
MI USA 04/04/2008
Solo Senior Travel in the 60's
When I was a "young" history teacher, a friend and I rented a car and B&B'd through the British Isles for 3-4 weeks during summer vacations. Now that I am a "mature" ex-history teacher, I go on my own, usually by train. In the past 7 years I have journeyed through the Low Countries (Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg), crossed Norway, roamed through France (multiple trips), and made many repeat journeys through England. This year's plans include Austria and Italy. I research and plan the trips throughout the long Pennsylvania winters but travel in the fall to take advantage of off-season rates. As with good packing--where you should lay out everything you intend to take and then put half of it back in the closet--when planning a journey, jot down everything you want to see but when you actually get there, decide what is feasible based on the weather, how tired your feet are, or any other "surprises" invariably associated with travel. Remember: you are on vacation. What you don't see this time just gives you a reason to return! The key is to be open minded, friendly, and flexible. If you are, "age" will no longer matter.
Cheryl
York, PA USA 03/15/2008
Enjoying travel in 60's
Re: Enjoying Italy at age 62.
I am this age and I have walked, trained, flown all over Italy and other countries as well, and hope to continue for many more years! The 60's are not, or should not be, too old to actively travel and do virtually anything we want. We all have to hang in there as long as we can.
BG
San Francisco, CA USA 02/26/2008
Portugal
It's been a few years, but we greatly enjoyed a trip down the coast of Portugal by rental car and up the coast of Spain.
One warning, we parked in a small Portugese town to check on a room, 5 minutes later, returned to find our locked car ransacked, backpacks gone. That night, being more cautious, we put our valuables under out mattress and woke in the middle of the night to find our hotel room wide open.
It is the only crime I have experienced in 6 trips to Europe. Steve's guides have been invaluable.
Jane Bailey <email>
Poulsbo, Wa USA 12/30/2007
Enjoying Italy at age 62
I am a 62 year old father of three women in their mid-thirties. I keep in relatively good shape by walking 2 to 3 days per week. Just returned from Italy with my three girls and had one great time!!! all of our belongings were in our backpacks. We only stayed at Pensiones recommended by Rick Steves or those in Frommer books. All the Pensiones were simply furnished but clean and well kept. Our hosts were just great and most of them spoke some English, as did most of the people we met. Our only mode of trasportation from town to town was via train. We visited the major sites at a slow leasure pace in Milan, Turin, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence, Rome, Naples, Vesuvius, took a bus ride down the Amalfi Coast down to the Isle of Capri and our final destination in Salerno. We discovered small, hidden inexpensive eating establishments and cafes. 99% of the Italians were very helpful and friendly and easy/eager to engage in spirited conversations with us. Only a small problem in Naples where some punks wanted our backpacks. The world is too small and life is too short and it is a shame to be deterred by the mindset that we are too old to travel and push ourselves away from the confortable confines of National Geographic magazine and Travel programs on PBS to see the beauty of the world for ourselves. My dad recently passed away at the age of 93 and one of his comments in his final days in bed was that one of his biggest regrets was not taking me up on my offer of taking a group tour of the Holy Land when he was still healthy two years prior. LIVE, SEE AND ENJOY---AGE ALONE IS NOT AN IMPEDIMENT!!!
John <email>
Brookfield, IL. USA 11/17/2007
Italy for Seniors? You bet!
We have just returned from a wonderful six weeks in Italy! We are the couple who saves all year and drive the 12 year old car so that we might get to spend a few months exploring Europe.This year it was Italy!
My husband is 65 and I am 60 and neither one of us would miss one minute of the excitement that travel brings!
We started our journey with 8 glorious days in the Cinque Terre, staying in the town of Vernazza. We stayed at Elizabetta's (78 stairs up and 78 down from the main road) and what a delight.Rick was right after we were settled in we only saw our host once. We were asked to leave our payment for the room on the table and the key in the mail box upon departure. Unusual yes! However, it is what they requested. Cinque terre was wonderful...we ate pizza and drank wine on the sea wall at night, hiked the villages by day, sat in the town at night and met some of the old ladies from the town, ate gellato every day, took a boat ride to Portovenere and really enjoyed ourselves.
We took the train ( train travel is very easy in Italy and very inexpensive) back to Pisa picked up a car and headed to the heel of Italy. We had been told repeatedly from just about, everyone, we met to be careful in the south as the crime is high. We drove to Alberobello a UNESCO city and found the people most accomadating. We found a older man who was more than willing to watch our car if we paid him 5 euro a day (we stayed 3 days)When he found out we were looking for accomadation he took us to his friend Guiesspe who ran a B&B and who was more than willing to help us out. It was great! Alberobello is a must see and we would highly recommend it!
Then we headed up toward Tuscany and stopped at the Adriatica, on a whim, in a small town called Guillinova. What a gem we fell in love! It was the end of the season in this small resort town and we were able to get a room on the beach with breakfast,an umbrealla and 2 chairs for 40 euro in a small family run hotel. The owners daughter spoke a little english and my attempt to speak Italian paid off in spades as we had a wonderful experience and will keep in touch with the everyone that we met.Time was on the move so we headed to the farm house that we had rented in Chianti. I really don't think either one of us were prepared for Tuscany....even with all the reading and research, the beauty,the food, the people. It was so beautiful!We used the farmhouse as our base and did the hilltop towns, Cortona, Assisi, (my personal favourite and a great tour Rick)Volterra, and San Gimignano, Castellina in Chianti. However, all good things must end and now it was time to head back to Pisa and then on to London and home.
Please everyone don't be afraid because of your age to reach out and try a new experience. That is what keeps us young! It is such a great experience to sit in a square and people watch, to try taking the train and have a laugh because you missed the one you were supposed to take or got off at the wrong place,to stand at a cappucinno bar in a small town with the locals,to get up early and watch the fisherman bring in their catch for the day and watch the bargining that goes on for the fish,to get lost and try and find a room and end up in a wonderful B&B and find that people couldn't do more for you. Yes, I am saving to go again and I can't wait! Happy travels!
Carol Neary <email>
Edmonton Alberta, Alta USA 11/13/2007
Train travel-
We are two women in our late 60's that traveled Germany and France by train for 3 weeks. Thanks to Rick's tour books, we felt confident that we could do it. Traveling in Germany by train is easier than France. For one thing, everyone there speaks some English. Not true in France. We found that the toliets in the French train stations don't open until 6:00 a.m. and charge 40 euros to use them if they have one. Some of the trains stations in the small towns have no toliets at all. We were told we should have used the toliets on the train. Just something that can be of concern to senior women. Train travel on the whole is a wonderful experience in Europe.
Mary Ann and Ingrid <email>
St. Paul, MN USA 11/02/2007
Norway for Seniors
Enjoyed 10 great days in Norway this May on my own after a few days in Oslo with friends. Good things for seniors to know (I'm 64): take local train from airport; Norwegians become "seniors" at 67, but smile and ask for sr. discount (will almost always get it); Norwegian Sr. Railpass is a good deal and includes many express boat discounts; Stavanger-Bergen intercoastal boat only 200NOK Mon-Tues. (check website). Bergen TI tried to sell me Norway in Nutshell tour rather than seat reservation only on train portion. I took express boat Bergen to Flam but couldn't get sr. discount as Bergen TI person claimed. Refill water bottles at hotel: few drinking fountains. Cheaper to pay for the toilet and refill at the tap than to buy pricey water.
Jill
Portland, OR USA 07/22/2007
Senior Discounts
American places seldom give discounts to European seniors. You are merely experiencing turnabout. Some places in Europe will give the senior discount to anyone who looks the part
Paul n Sara <email>
USA 07/19/2007
ask and you will probably receive
Ask for a senior discount everywhere, and you will probably get one.
At the Palacio Real in Madrid I was denied a senior discount as an American. But there was one for European Union seniors. I couldn't help but get mad. Then at the Reina Sofia (an excellent museum) in Madrid I cooled off. I asked for a senior discount and got in free.
J. Sinclair
Vallejo, CA USA 07/12/2007
Morocco Travel
Sara and I went to Ceuta (which is Spanish territory in Morocco) by ferry from Algiciras in south Spain. We did not like the constant importuning to buy from the locals. We felt hunted. Morocco is touted as a wonderful place to go and likely is. Just be prepared to deal with the sales pressure from so many.
Paul n Sara <email>
USA 03/04/2007
Italy for seniors with Queens
My wife and I recently returned from a tour to Italy with Queenslander Tours out of Denver. They have a senior's gift code (which is not advertised for some reason!) for those of us over 60 years of age where you can save up to $300 off a very well done tour. We ventured to Venice, Florence and rome on their great cities (italy's grand cities tour) and found their service and SMALL groups cater well to our needs as active senior adults. They are tops with us.
Jack Colton <email>
San Francisco, CA USA 02/26/2007
STORE LUGGAGE AT HOTEL
Most travelers search out a "left luggage" counter to leave luggage. You find them at RR stations, airline terminals and bus terminals.
Some hotels have them. Ask the concierge where you can check your luggage.
USA 01/24/2007
Storing luggage in hotel or b & b
My husband and I are senior travelers. We have traveled many miles with just our backpacks and like this way of travel. Now we are having a few problems. My husband has some foot problems and we are hesitant to "hit the road" as we usually do. We are planning a trip to UK this spring. We normally fly in, hit the rails (with our backpacks) stopping when we want to and don't worry about reservations. I'm wondering if we could maybe leave a suitcase or one backpack, somewhere in London, taking a small carry on or one backpack with us? Would we have to secure a hotel room until our return in order to leave some of our "stuff?" We usually stay in B & B's but don't know how to manage this new problem. Any suggestions?
editors note: all questions muct be posted to Travelers Helpline
Whitney
Richmond, VA USA 01/23/2007
Senior Travels
I hace been backpacking to Europe for 40 years and I have a number of short tips. First, as Rick suggests, get as much knowledge as possible about your hotel/hostel/room etc. before you leave. Being able to plan how to get to your accommodations is a necessity. For example, staying in castles may be adventurous or romantic, but don't forget that they are built on high points (like mountains or really big hills). Make sure that you know how you're going to get to the top whether by taxi, bus, etc. You don't want to carry your heavy backpack and a roll-along up a dirt trail with lots of steps. My favorite example is the DJH Hostel Burg Stahleck in Bacharach, Germany. Research your accommodations or suffer.
Next, when you are told to pack light, PACK LIGHT! More vacations in Europe are ruined by having more than essentials. This is true of tours as well. For people that plan on hiking or climbing, pack your light shoes and wear your boots on the plane. Keep as much weight off your back as possible. When you have to run to a train, you'll thank me.
Also, regarding packing, the spacesaver type bags (you squeeze the air out) seem like a great idea. But remember that while the tighter you pack the more you get into the pack, the more weight you'll have to carry. A good idea is to pack your bag ( or pack) a couple of weeks before you leave. Load the pack into your car and drive to your local mall. Load up and walk through the mall for a couple of hours realizing that this is as GOOD as it gets. Again, PACK LIGHT!
Next, do not carry your bills in a money clip. Showing off money attracts pickpockets and in Europe is considered to be in poor taste anyway. Don't be afraid to pull your money belt out in front of a clerk when making a purchase. In fact, I believe that pickpockets will leave you alone if they know that you have a money belt.
Hostels have become more expensive due to the strength of the Euro. Look into getting a room (check at the TI) in someone's home. Also, remember that hostels frequently have bunk beds. You may get a top bunk. If you have problems getting up to it, politely ask if someone will change with you Most of the time one of the young people will oblige. Buy them a drink in the bar or a bottle of water to show your appreciation.
I prefer hostels because of the people you meet. You may not get as much sleep as you want, but you will have a good time with the young people. If you are in my age bracket (66), you won't be looked at as a parent, but as a grandparent. I know things about my grandchildren that they don't think their parents know. If you strike up a conversation, they will probably treat you and your wisdom with the same respect.
Remember to live each day as if it were to be your last. One day, you'll be right! (But you'll have a blast along the way.)
Don <email>
Madison, WI USA 12/03/2006
Paris bus system
Now that we are seniors, endless stairs are not as enjoyable as they once were. We visit Paris often, buy a Carte Orange, use the bus system exclusively, and eliminate all of those Metro stairs. A large system map is posted at most bus stops, and a pocket map is available at Metro ticket booths (a magnifying glass is helpful with the small print). We make a point of never being in a hurry (we're on vacation), so waiting at a bus stop is no problem. Another advantage of the Paris bus is being able to see the street life and neighborhoods (not seen on the Metro). We wait until our last day in Paris to pick up a car (Renault Eurodirve www.renaultusa.com) to continue our travels. Driving in Paris is no problem, but parking is difficult and expensive, so forget renting a car to use in the city; use the bus!
Charles A. Robinson <email>
Lodi, CA USA 11/26/2006
SAVE MONEY ON LONDON THEATRE
Do not go to the half price ticket booth go right to the box office and ask do you have any conscion tickets ?? an hour before and more often then not they will sell you a ticket many hours before. No 2.50£ and often more then half off. Second tip for popular shows ie. Billy elliot or mary popinns (both outstanding)ask for restricted view I saved almost half on both these shows I missed a bit of feet but sure saw faces well from front row . I have seen 80% of London shows and am happy advise for non theatre nuts.
John Brangwin <email>
Bellevue, wa USA 11/25/2006
morocco
my husband and i have spent quite a bit of time travelling in europe by train and by car. we are planning a trip to cadiz province in southern spain in late january, 2007, and are considering taking the ferry from tarifa to tangier and spending a couple of days in morocco. has anyone out there done this and if so what kind of experiences have you had and what kind of advice would you give....ie...should we get out of tangier as quickly as we got in? is it worth the effort if we're only going to spend a couple of days in morocco?
whatever input out there would be appreciated. thanks
melinda <email>
long beach, ms USA 11/19/2006
advice on Hahn airport
I intend to fly Ryan air from Frankfurt
Hahn HHN to Krakow begining the trip at
Koblenz. Does anyone have any info about taking the bus from Koblenz and
Ryan air out of HHN. It apears it is better to start from Koblenz than from Frankfurt or Mainz??
Richard Schultz <email>
Absarokee, MT USA 11/15/2006
PAT...NEED ADVICE ON USED AUTO PURCHASE
Check to see if you sell your car in England before you buy.
When I brought a car from France into London to ship to Texas the authorities told me I must ship it and could not sell it.
USA 10/09/2006
Actually, it's not a very good idea to buy in Europe because the rest of Europe is left hand drive, whilst the UK is right hand drive. You can use a left hand drive car in the UK, but it can be very confusing and is not reccomended.
Also, there may well be a limitation at how long you can have a car bought in another country in the UK without having to pay UK road tax / import fees/insurance. By the time you factor in import fees/VAT - which would almost certainly apply if you don't have proof that you are taking the car back to where it was bought - it would probably be no more expensive that buying one in the UK.
Depending on how long you will be in the UK, you might be better off renting a car/trailer as you won't have to worry about things like import taxes, getting insurance cover for the car and trailer etc.
In addition, you might want to make sure that you can in fact buy a car without having to have a UK or EU license. I think it would be possible in the UK as long as you are staying for under a year, but don't know the rules & regs elsewhere.
I think it might be wise to do a little research in the web about the rules & regulations & costs of buying/importing a car to the UK and about pulling a trailer.
Kate
Scotland 09/30/2006
Need Advice on Used Auto Purch.
American Geezerette (old lady) needs used auto for occasionally pulling my small trailer/caravan in England. Dollar/lb. exchange is bad, I will buy in Europe, perhaps a diesel, drive back to England. Any advice?
editors note: all questions must be posted to Traveler's Helpline
Pat Drenten <email>
Ft. Worth, TX USA 09/29/2006
Travel... Travel... Travel..
My husband and I are both retirees and have travelled to Europe for the last 9 years.We are so lucky! We follow most the rules... travel light...meet the people...try different food, take in the sights, taste the wine and sit in the town square and watch the world from a different perspective. WE always remember we are a guest in their country so we are polite and show respect for the locals. We always try and learn some of the langusge, especially please, thank you, hello etc. It has been the most incredible experience of our lives. We have been to France, Spain, Greece, England etc. It really has opened a new and exciting door for the both of us. We have rented a car, traveled by train, taken ferries and love every minute. We have stayed in B&B, hostels, gites etc. Wow is it great! Remember in North America, if you don't feel safe you move on, the same applies there. We have been extremely fortunate and will continue to travel as long as we can. We leave for Tuscany on Saturday, and we have rented a farm house (a new experience) then on to Santorini in Greece.
Happy travels!!!!
Carol Neary <email>
Edmonton Alberta, Alta Canada 09/05/2006
Fred,,,,,senior discounts in France
In England the discount is called pensioners rate.
So I would ask for "Pensioners", with the accent of the last syllable
USA 09/05/2006
Senior Discounts in France
What is the best french expression for asking if there is a senior discount?
Fred
Austin, tx USA 09/04/2006
2nd class
May I vent, I hear buy a second class ticket because you meet "more interesting people" Last trip 1st class spent an hour discussing world commerce with a member of world bank and then on next train dicussed the cancer vacine this women dr. was doing reseach on, both in Paris and Munchen
So book 2nd class save money and maybe find the cheapest room or beer but for meaningful conversation 1st class is just fine. certainly with a Eurale pass no reason I know of to be cramped into 2 class
John Brangwin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA 08/28/2006
age and car rental
At age 79, I rented a car for 30 days from AVIS. My wife and I got off the plane at CDG from Atlanta and drove to Rouen, Honfleur, Normandy, Brittany, and the Loire valley. Turned the Ford Fusiom in at the Chartres gare and took a train to gay Paris. Main roads were 4 lane, divided highway. Country roads were two narrow lanes and poorly marked. No problems at any time.
Charlemagne
Atlanta, Ga USA 08/21/2006
Car Rental for Seniors
I am 68 and I have had no trouble renting a car in Europe. In fact, I have just returned from 5 weeks in Italy and had a car for 3 weeks. I was the first user of a brand new Fiat Station Wagon.I am now returning to Europe and will rent again.
Larry Ruff <email>
Bowling green, KY USA 07/18/2006
WOODY....SENIORS AND CAR RENTALS
Yes, there is an age limit. It varies with each rental agency.
The only way I could find the limit was to call each agency on the toll free phone line and ask.
CARLOS
TX USA 07/11/2006
Seniors and car rentals in Europe
Do any senior readers know if there is a cutoff date for seniors to rent cars in Europe? I've heard that people over 65 are not allowed to rent cars. Can anyone confirm this? Thanks
Woody
USA 07/11/2006
Trains ans Seniors
Train travel is easy for seniors. Just relax and take your time. Be careful of the usual scams, but in enjoy. Happy travels
Robert Shimp <email>
Paradise, Ca. USA 07/08/2006
Save Money at London Theatre
Most theatres that have tickets at half price booth will sell senior tickets at theatre all day, saving you 2 1/2 pounds each, shorter line and often more convenient. last time (a year ago )worked 9 out ten plays PS dont miss Blood Brothers one of my favorites
John Brangwin <email>
Bellevue, Wa USA 07/03/2006
Travelling in Germany, Denmark etc...
Greetings
At least in Denmark, I think you'll find that public transportation - bus and train - is the preferred form of transportation. And I've certainly seen many older folks on bikes as well!
Train stations are almost always well set up with clean & functional elevators, and trains with no more than a slight step (as to allow bikes and huge baby-carriages to get on).
I'd have no worries about travelling by train, and your mother may well be eligible for senior citizens discounts. (It varies by country and city, whether discounts are available and if they are available to non-citizens).
Have fun!
Kate
Scotland 06/11/2006
Traveling with mom
I love to travel and enjoy when my mom is able to come. I find that proper planning is the key. I plan everytihng about a year in advance. I almost never do tours as they whip you around and my mom is not able to keep up plus she needs many breaks to sit and rest. On the occasion we do book a tour we have found that booking after we arrive and do some site seeing usually works really well because we can verbalize my mom's limitations to the travel agant and they can better advise us to tours.
I also do not book hotels but rather apt or condos so we can spread out and be more comfy and have a kitchen to cook in plus it adds to the trip and memories. A car pick-up is always a must after a long flight so my mom does not have to worry about luggage, even if it does have wheels. If your tired and feel bad, you do not want to worry about luggage and trying to find your way around when you first arrive.
Happy Travels,
Parker
Newport Beach, Ca USA 05/31/2006
TAKING THE TRAINS
Lisa: My wife and I are 82 and ride the trains all the time in Europe.
Depends on your mom's health and strength. But if she is average she can handle it.
Only strenuous activity for us is handling luggage and you can always pay someone to do that for you.
We use wheeled bags and have no trouble.
USA 05/21/2006
Taking the Trains
Traveling with my healthy active 77 year old Mom this fall. Concerned that traveling by train in Germany, Amsterdam and Denmark might be to much for her. Looking for those who may have attempted for some advice. Yes, I will be packing light......
Lisa <email>
Peoria, AZ USA 05/18/2006
Check your dates
On our last trip to Germany, I noticed that there were discounts available on most of the boat trips on the Rhine and the Bodensee. These are large discounts, but they are not available every day. If you are staying in a departure city such as Rudesheim or Friedrichshafen for several days, you might want to schedule your excursion for a discounted day. You can probably check on-line ahead of time. These trips are a wonderful way to relax. We slap on the sunscreen, stake out a good seat on the sundeck, and sip our wine as we drift past the villages and castles. It's as good as a day-long spa treatment!
Carrie
Pacific Grove, CA USA 05/04/2006
pick up to airports
Had a hard time finding pick up for very early flight out of CDG. Make sure you call 2 days ahead. We rented an apartment, might have been the reason. Cell phone rental problematic if you are not used to them.
Carolyn Baldwin <email>
Issaquah, WA USA 04/18/2006
CRETE HOLIDAY
Any suggestions for quiet beaches/hotels in Crete this summer? We will be there during the St John the Baptist Feast and would like to enjoy it in a smaller village.
Dennis Mozeleski <email>
siacusa, CA USA 04/13/2006
65 YEAR OLD HELP DRESSING UP
David:
I am 80 and wont be concerned about what I wear to the opera. You will find people there wearing every style of clothing. Choose a dark jacket which doesnt weigh much.
As soon as you arrive hang it in the shower and close the curtain and turn on the hot water to fill the bathroom with steam. Take it outside the bath room and hang it to dry for an hour.
It really wont matter as long as you wear a black tie. Don't forget your spats!
WALTER M.
NYC, USA 03/05/2006
65 Year-Old Man Needs Help Dressing Up
At 65, I'm taking my first trip with a Rick Steves tour of paris and the Heart of France. I'll be in Paris on my own for five days and I'd like to take in a concert, opera and/or ballet. I'm convinced that traveling with one bag is the best way to go, but I need to know what kind of jacket I could wear to those events and yet not pack a heavy sport coat. I would appreciate comments and suggestions since I really don't want to look gauche to Europeans. I'm also not comfortable looking too casual.
David
McKinleyville, CA USA 03/05/2006
4 days England once in a lifetime trip
Hi, I'm sending my mother & sister to England for 4 full days. In all honesty pretty sure this will be my mothers only trip. She wants to see London, Cotswold & Blenheim. Is this possible in just 4 days, she doesn't walk well & they'll need to take tour buses, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Jean <email>
Acworth, GA USA 01/10/2006
Advantages of Age
At 69 I am now an "older traveller." Compared with being a "younger traveller" as I was in 1969, things have improved for me. In general, Europeans respect older people. Although nobody gives me their seat on the metro (yet), I have noticed that younger people gladly engage with me in conversation and seem interested in me as a person. I recommend that senior travellers stay in hostels occasionally. The ones I've been in welcome people of all ages. You have an opportunity to meet people of different nationalities and ages.
USA 09/12/2005
ITALY NEXT SPRING
Sandra~~~Senior Discount ages vary greatly around the world. I have traveled in 50 countries and I am always surprised where they give discounts and often by the low age they require.
I always ask at hotels, restaurants, museums, events, RR stations, bus terminals and any place I have to pay to enter.
You have to ask if you qualify. Some will give you a discount if you are over 50; others require ages up to 65.
Always ask because most places don't advertise them and you wont know if you don't ask.
M. G. ZAPP
DALLAS, USA 08/23/2005
Italy next spring
I am planning a trip to Italy next spring. What age do they consider "Senior Citizen"? In the US it is usually 65. I will be 63, and going for the first time.
Sandra
Redmond, Wa USA 08/22/2005
senior traveling in Europe
3 mos trip 68 yrs old 2 yrs ago, traveled by train Morocco, Spain, Portugal, France, Holland, Germany,
Sweden, Finland, Russia, Czech, Austria,Italy,Monte Carlo, hotel reservations online, train reservations thru the American tkt office in Munich, good time, war just started, anti american remarks and demonstratons in Madrid,Barcelona was good, going again in May,
Richard Schultz <email>
Absarokee, MT USA 08/13/2005
SENIOR DISCOUNTS ALL OVER THE WORLD
I agree that it is wise to ask always for senior discounts. They are seldom advertised and you will be surprised when you find one and I have been amazed to find that some of them are as much as 50%. Don't be afraid to ask. I always ask at stores, restaurants, and all transportation.
V. M. CHANDRE
DALLAS, USA 07/31/2005
Pen Pals
Hello all,
My ten year old sister want to have a few pen-pals from around the world to write too. I haven't a clue as to where to start looking . I have search countless websites and most of them only cater to ages 13 and older. If for any chance you have any information I would really appeciate this .. Happy travels......
aa liyah <email>
new york City, new york USA 06/22/2005
Tube stations in London
Nurse Spark~~please note that the subway system in London is call the tube or underground. You wouldn't ask where a metro station was, ask where the tube station is.
Oh USA 05/14/2005
SENIOR DISCOUNTS IN FRANCE
I have copied this report from July, 2000.~~~On our last trip to Europe we smiled and politely asked if the establishment offered a Senior Discount, even when it was not posted that one was available.~~~ In every instance we got one; sometime it saved us as much as half price. Don't be afraid to ask, but remember to smile.Lyn Suarez ~~~Tulsa, OK ~~~ 07/27/00
nashville, tn USA 04/27/2005
SENIOR DISCOUNTS IN FRANCE
I always ask everywhere I go because rules change daily; some who didn?t give discounts last week may give them today. You will not know until you ask. I ask at stores, RR stations, air lines, restaurants, museums, busses, trolleys and castles.
ROGER M.
DALLAS, USA 04/27/2005
Senior Travel
My husband and I are 66 years old. We had a great trip to Spain. We checked all of our luggage but one small soft briefcase with meds & extra clothes and my purse. The checked luggage was 2 small rolling suitcases, and a small bag that fit around the handle of one of them. We are fit enough to walk around attractions such as the Alhambra, but we took the red bus up the hill to its location. We also stayed upstairs in two places which had no elevator and were fine. We always included down times in our days, only one or two main sights. The sidewalk cafes are great for resting and absorbing the culture. The lobby of the Amadeus Hotel in Seville is a pleasant place to sit and read. One of the last places we visited was Tarifa where we spent our time on the uncrowded, unpolluted beach rather than taking a tour of Morroco or Gibralter. We plan to continue traveling as we get older, and add services such as taxis, elevators, etc. as needed. We took taxis from the airport or stations so we didn't have to deal with luggage, but I did buy our train and bus tickets using my limited Spanish, and we managed the luggage on them O.K.
Rosemary Shively <email>
Briggsdale, CO USA 04/25/2005
London Metro stairs
LondonIf you have trouble with the stairs try not to take the metro since most undergroud staions have lots of stairs and corridors instead to the metro take London's public buses. You get to do a bit of sightseeing and your not walking up, down, and thru large undeground tunnels.
NurseSpark <email>
Newtown, PA USA 04/02/2005
Wheeled luggage
Seniors, In addition to wearing comfortable walking shoes, I suggest getting wheeled luggage. The kind you see airline personel using. If your suitcase has in line skate wheels it will hold up fine in Europe and it is so much easier than trying to carry a bag, even a light one. I have never had trouble getting mine up stairs or onto trains. They are great!!
USA 08/24/2004
Istanbul
We are in our late 70's and have been doing Europe on our own for forty years. Much has changed but go to learn, admire and be courteous and you will be loved everywhere. The helpfulness of the man-in-street is amazing. We spent a week in Istanbul this spring and those things held true there. It is a very clean city! We felt exceedingly safe even in the most crowded bazaars. Many small (10 rooms or so) family run boutique hotels exist and are still reasonably priced. While not universal English is spoken almost everywhere in the city.
Doug Bly <email>
Rockville, MD USA 07/28/2004
Taxi vs Tube in London
RE taking a taxi vs no elevators in London Underground stations: Elevators *are* available in Tube stations, but you have to ask to be shown or taken to them. Instead of running all over the station looking for a Tube employee, what worked for me, a senior woman traveling alone, was simply standing at the bottom of an impossible flight of stairs with my rolling carry-on, and within minutes a TE came along and took me to the elevator. In one instance, however, a very polite young gentleman carried the bag up the stairs for me! Also, don't believe the travel "tips" that say 'don't take luggage onto a London bus'. If the bus doesn't have a bin for luggage, your one "Rick carry-on" will fit between the seats, or you can put it in the seat-less area near the front of the bus "reserved" for baby strollers. (But make sure you can see it from your seat.)
Joanna <email>
Topeka, KS USA 07/17/2004
Mid-50's travelers
We're in our mid-50's, and just made our first, but not last, trip to Europe. Had a travel agent for awhile, but she was doing nothing, and wanted us to stay in Holiday Inns, Mestre instead of Venice, etc. Fired her and planned entire trip via Rick and the internet.
It was absolutely great! Stayed with former foreign exchange student in Nuremberg, but otherwise used Rick-recommended hotels the entire way: Gastehaus Flemming in Rothenburg, Hotel Uhland in Munich, Pension Jedermann in Salzburg, Locanda San Trovaso in Venice, Villa Cipressi in Varenna, and Hotel Cervo at the Milan airport -- all very satisfactory. Did a rail/drive package, which was also fine.
The only place we deviated from Rick's philosophy was by using small wheeled suitcases, which we'd recommend for people our age, instead of backpacks. Learned a little German and a little Italian, which were helpful. Be friendly, keep your sense of humor, and you'll receive good treatment in return.
Bob & Suzanne
Wilder, KY USA 06/04/2004
Web of Univ. of London, Kings College vacation housing
The web-site for Univ. of London (Kings College) mentioned earlier is www.kcl.ac.uk/kcvb. This is not only for seniors. Their e-mail address is vacations.at.kings@kcl.uk
I think there must be other universities with similar programs. I would try to find a web-site and look at "vacation bureau" or similar.
Shana
Calistoga, CA USA 05/22/2004
Cruising Europe
My Mother, a retired teacher, traveled a lot with my Father. After his
death, she continued to travel abroad but mostly in groups. Alas, the
time came in her 80s when she was suffering from early Parkinson's and
needed a companion and thoughtful planning to continue her travels. I
became her travel companion and we had 3 delightful trips together before
her death.
We went on three Grand Circle tours: QEII & London; Cruise to Scandinavia & Baltic Ports including London; and a Rhone Valley Cruise including Paris and Nice. In each case, the amount of walking was minimal; cruise ships usually offer shore excursions for those with difficulty walking. Sometimes my Mother would opt out of tours and stay aboard, as in St. Petersburg which she had visited twice previously. We discussed this when planning the trips.
The most delightful surprise was the reception my Mother received everywhere in France. French people have a great respect for older family members and often go out of their way to be helpful. It truly was remarkable.
After each organized trip, we planned a week on own. This is where the internet was most helpful. Obviously you want a hotel large enough to have a elavator/lift and with a fairly convenient location. Plan on taking frequent taxis. Most major museums have wheelchairs available and you will find this information on their websites. If they don't mention it, send them an email. I am pretty familiar with both London and Paris which was helpful in planning. You want to have a gameplan for each day to minimize taxi fares and fatigue. If you do not know the city you intend to visit, I suggest asking someone to assist you in planning what is feasible.
Don't forget travel insurance,
[including emergency evacuation coverage]! Medicare does not cover travel
outside the USA. Also, be sure to request, in advance, assistance at the
airport. This is a free service that the airlines (and cruise ships) are
happy to provide. Believe me, you need it. Happy Traveling!
Mary-Anne Helms <email>
Princeton, NJ USA 01/18/2004
Cheap lodging for seniors in London
I stayed in student housing at the University of London in Sept. 2003. It
was 21 GBP (cheap), clean, safe, and handy to bus/tube. There was an elevator,
24-hr security. I had my own bathroom and small refrigerator with a shared
kitchen nearby.
Shana <email>
CA USA 11/22/2003
senior travel in europe
Starting in 1998, I have visited Italy 3 times: twice with a male friend;
once with my wife and another couple; and once with a group of 16 for a
cooking tour. Germany once with a buddy; Paris with my wife; and Provence
with my son. I have never had a safety problem, maybe because of being with
another male, in a group, or with another couple. To worry about being a
senior is unwarranted. European cultures respect and assist the elderly.
I am 66, active and still working. Remember to make copies of your presciptions
for medication, your passport, airline tickets, and drivers license. Keep
them in a safe and separate location. Except for the tour, I always rented
a car and used the bus and train when necessary or when i felt like it.
The pharmacies in Italy, France and Germany are advanced and usually staffed
with a doctor, so don't be afraid to use them. Ciao!
steve flores <email>
los gatos, ca USA 10/19/2003
Suitcases
My husband and I, 68 yr old g'parents, traveled with two 11 yr old boys
for a month in England (trains, boats, cars, underground etc). The boys
had rolling backpacks that they could easily hoist up steps; we had rolling
22 inch bags. I couldn't lift my bag easily, so next time I travel, I'm
taking the rolling backpack! I can even lift that into an overhead compartment.
It holds a lot if you squish stuff into 2 gal ziplock bags. The boys did
great at packing and squirreling away purchases. We took a nylon duffel
to carry laundry in. It was great, as all four of us got tired at the same
time! We rented apartments in several locations, so we had laundry and kitchen
facilities, no expensive eating out all the time, besides shopping was fun
for the boys. Apts are also cheaper by day than hotels, b &bs, and most
were lovely! Took trains between places and on outings. Senior Britrail
passes allow one child each free! Cabs are cheaper for four..and easier!
If you arrive at opening time Tower of London, you can make many passes
through the crown jewels..moving sidewalk takes you thru pretty fast on
one looksee! Changing of the Guard at Buck. Palace was a crashing bore,
took forever and was hot besides. We had a wonderful trip, got tired every
day, but saw so much!
g'ma traveler
SLC, UT USA 07/26/2003
Senior Travel
As the ad says, 'Just do it!" Don't be afraid to travel to Europe just because
you have advanced to senior status. We just packed all our various medicines
in rolling suitcases and spent 22 days roaming via trains, cars, ferries,
and planes. We planned well allowing time to rest. Let's hear from other
senior travelers. Where have you been? What do you recommend?
Ann Chan <email>
Exton, Pa USA 07/25/2003
Be Aware of Surroundings
Our trip to London was enhanced by the fact that we returned our car to
the airport and then did London. We got around via the underground, using
day passes and grouping sites we wanted to see into similar areas. The underground
is inexpensive and safe and easy to use. One caveat: we came out of the
South Kensington underground with our luggage at 10pm on a Friday. We made
the mistake of stopping right outside the exit and attracted the attention
of an individual who followed us right into a hotel! Luckily, it was not
the hotel where we were staying. We had noticed him following us even after
some diversions. So we set him up. He made eye contact with us and knew
he was busted so he jumped into an elevator. We went on our way to our hotel
where he didn't follow. So be careful if you arrive in the evening on a
weekend. And be aware of what's going on around you.
R. and B. Long
USA 07/01/2003
Belgium Trains
Trains and bikes are the only way to travel in Belgium. I just returned
from a week in Brussels, Brugges, etc. Seniors get a HUGE discount on train
fares. Only condition for those over 65 is that you take a train departing
after 9 am. I took a train from Brugge to Louven, 1 1/2 hours each way for
2.50 Euros round trip. Airport to Brussels for 2.40 Euros.
Harry Holmberg <email>
Coeur d' Alene, ID USA 04/15/2003
Senior, Solo, Female Travel
I traveled to London for 10 days in November. It was my first solo trip
abroad since being widowed.
I had a wonderful time. Stayed on Ebury St just behind Victoria Station for five nights at the Woodville House (shared bath). As Rick said, dollhouse tight but clean and adequate (if you don't mind sharing a bath). I moved for the next 5 nights just a few doors down to the Lime Tree Hotel (with private facilities!) and loved it.
I took the Big Bus tours the first couple of days to get oriented. Used the buses and tube (had a 7 day pass) for trips of any distance and at night. Walked most everywhere which was very satisfying as I could stop along the way. Spent my days in museums, galleries, a couple of theater matinees (mostly saw shows in the evening), sightseeing, shopping, concerts....whatever and whenever I wanted. It was great.
I was never afraid. I could be with people when I wanted to be and alone
when I so desired. I will say eating a late dinner is something I tried
to avoid. This was the only time I felt like a "bump on a log. " I either
ate early before a show or not at all. I am not by nature a "loner" but
will not let being alone keep me from traveling and enjoying it.
B Reece <email>
Fort Worth, TX USA 02/23/2003
Elevators
We have found that many museums in Paris and in Brussels do have elevators
even though they have no sign telling about them. Just ask! You will be
taken to a small, carefully hidden elevator, and most often escorted to
your floor.
Marilyn Lutzker <email>
New York City, NY USA 08/15/2002
Seeing Italy!
Four of us who are all social security ages traveled through Italy for 30
days in April and May. We used our Italy Rail Card passes and made seat
reservations at two Italian travel agencies after we got there. We did rent
a car in Florence and return it to Pisa while we stayed in a really cute
2 bedroom stone "villa" south of Siena for a week. That meant we could drive
to all the great little hill towns and that was super. Cars in the cities
would have been suicidal! But you can't see the countryside easily from
a train.
Anyway, we used our Rick's book and believe me, for the huge percentage of the time, he is right on. I suspect that once in awhile things change after he has given his recommendation, but that can happen anywhere. We were careful about pickpockets etc. and had no problems. We were glad we had walked alot in preparation for the trip because most of Italy is built on a hill!
We particularly enjoyed Pensione Guerrato in Venice, Hotel Loreley in Sorrento and Trattoria Gianni in Vernazza. Also the Hotel Milano in Varenna has a new owner who is lovely and has high standards. The night before we flew home we stayed at a new hotel near the Milan/Malpensa airport -- First Hotel -- and for an efficient fast airport stay, it was excellent. We stayed from three to 5 nights in a location (except for the villa -7) and felt that we were able to pace ourselves and see all we had planned on.
It was our first trip to Italy and it was pretty intense in that there
was so much to see and enjoy! The very best thing was all the Gelato flavors!
The worst thing was having to hold a big plastic bag as a barf bag for
the lady next to me on the bus ride from Sorrento to Amalfi -- she was
really sick!
Mary <email>
Dundee, OR USA 06/03/2002
Senior travel by car and train in Europe
Report from senior travelers: Auto and train travel. After three successful
trips to England, Scotland and Ireland during which we each carried one
suitcase and Rick's travel guides, my wife and I were ready to tackle Europe.
Again, with sections from Rick's Europe Through the Back Door in our suitcases,
we landed in Amsterdam and lodged in Haarlem. We did trains and buses while
in The Netherlands, and picked up a rental car in Cologne for two weeks
of travel in Germany, Austria (with a side trip by train to Berno, Czech
Republic to visit Gregor Mendel's monastary), Switzerland, and France. After
touring in the south of France for three days, we took a non-stop train
from Avignon to Paris, where we spent 5 days of great sight seeing- lots
of walking and public transportation. Car travel in Europe allowed us to
get off the beaten path and meet some of the locals. For long distance hops,
the trains are great, and we enjoy the peace of mind that reserved seating
in first class provides.
Travel Insurance
Gudne Smyth <email>
La Pine, OR USA 11/05/2001
I recently traveled to London with my parents (69 and 70). My mother has trouble with stairs which can be a nightmare in London, but we were able to avoid many by doing two things. First, we took the black cabs everywhere! On my last trip there I used the tube, but the cabs were great! You get to see so much and when you consider how many people are traveling together the price is reasonable.
The second thing was to always ask if any elevators
(lifts) are on the premises. We had tickets for the Lion King, but when
we entered found the seats were up at the top of a huge staircase. My mother
was determined to make it and started up. I decided to check and see if
they had any lifts anywhere in the building that might save her from some
of the steps. There was! A very kind gentleman escorted us through a hidden
side door to a lift that took us almost all the way up. There were a few
other patrons who also knew about it. I decided to walk down the stairs
after the show to see how far it would have been and I know there is no
possible way my mother would have made it. Always, always ask!
Tracy
CA USA 07/10/2001
We went to Terceira in the Azores and really enjoyed it, however we tried
renting a car and only kept it 1 day. The statistics note thar Portugal
has more accidents than any other country in Europe and I can see why! After
that, we took cabs, which were very reasonable. Food and restaurants were
very reasonable, too. Only $3.00 for a swordfish dinner! Don't expect any
nightlife, because there isn't any. barbara.ormonde@verizon.net
barbara ormonde <email>
Ontario, CA USA 06/04/2001
On each of our 5 trips to Europe, I have learned some of the language,
and the best things on these trips have been talking to the locals. Whether
talking about their cats and my cats, or comparing their grandchildren and
mine, it was great fun to discover we're all the same, no matter what language
we speak. The greatest honor comes when they say, "You don't look Italian"--or
whatever country I am in--when I'm speaking their language. Also, in every
case, they try to speak English, and I realize I did okay.
Barbara Ormonde <email>
Ontario, CA USA 04/09/2001
just returned from wonderful week in london. a very good deal for the
over-60 crowd: ask for the senior rate at museums, theatres, etc. in quite
a few places we got reduced rates and several admission were free. you will
have to show proof of age.
auntgrapes
USA 02/23/2001
On our last trip to Europe we smiled and politely asked if the establishment
offered a Senior Discount, even when it was not posted that one was available.
In every instance we got one; sometime it saved us as much as half price.
Don't be afraid to ask, but remember to smile.
Lyn Suarez <email>
Tulsa, OK USA 07/27/2000
I traveled for a month in Italy with my 65-year-old mother. We stayed
in hotels located as centrally as possible to the sites we wanted to see,
and broke most of our days into two parts (with at least an hour of feet-up
time after lunch). Wheeled luggage was a must, as were cabs from the train
station to the hotel (easier than hauling your own luggage up and down stairs
in the metro or bus, and not terribly expensive). We had an extremely enjoyable
trip by not trying to fit too much into each day and enjoying people-watching
from cafes when our feet were tired.
Lauri Hart <email>
Menlo Park, CA USA 04/24/2000
I know Rick does not like the rolling suitcases, but he isn't 65 yet
so he will learn. Many sights and hotels have elevators if you ask. They
may not be available to the public ordinarily, but they are most responsive
if you ask. We have found elevators this way in the Doge's Palace in Venice,
the Uffizi, the museums on the Campodoglio in Rome, the Pitti Palace and
many, many other places. One hotel we stayed at very kindly let us use the
elevator of other companies in the same building. Just ask. The same is
true when you are trying to make a connection in a busy airport like Schiphol
in Amsterdam, in Newark and elsewhere. Tell the stewardess you would like
transportation to your connecting flight and they are most responsive. Get
over your shyness and ask.
Charles Luther <email>
Katy, TX USA 02/26/2000
Our family spent Christmas and New Year's holidays in Paris. It was a wonderful trip for all of us. Our 85-year-old father and my brother-in-law's 75-year-old mother were part of our party. We stayed at the charming Hotel Champ du Mars just blocks from the Eiffel Tower, near subway stops and shopping. The hotel made a ground floor room available for our father, which was handy for him. The elevator, though small, was a big help for the rest of our party.
The subways were easy to use for those of us with strong legs, but our seniors gave out after climbing miles of stairs. Also, our father was confused by the similar-appearing subway tunnels and platforms. I now wish we had spent more time learning the bus schedules.
We followed the plans for packing light but found that our seniors had difficulty hauling the pack around the airports and loading it on the planes and in the taxis. This created extra burdens for the rest of us and on our future trips we will check their bags.
Restaurants, hotels, cab drivers and all shops enjoyed helping our father and were charmed by the bubbly personality of our mother-in-law. So many people spoke English that getting help was no problem. We took a day trip to visit our father's WWII friend living near Versailles and had no problem on the trains.
New Year's Eve at the Eiffel Tower was the memory of a lifetime. Everyone was excited and happy. Groups of men shot off rockets under the Tower and everyone had a bottle of champagne.
Traveling with our elderly parents was wonderful and as soon as our finances recover, we're planning a family trip to London.
Linda Bremer <email>
Jacksonville, FL USA 01/03/2000