Travelers' Helpline: October 2006
All together, the community of Rick Steves' travelers has a wealth of European travel experience. This is your chance to help or be helped. If you've got a question about traveling in Europe, we think there's another traveler out there with an answer...
These posted responses are from the traveling public and are not supplied by Europe Through the Back Door staff members unless specifically noted.
Bags for Short People
Rick's "convertible" bag is awesome for us "short people". I am 5'1" and have used his full size convertible bag for more than 40 trips to Europe and around the world. It is comfortable, classy and comodious! I have never felt the need for wheels. Rick's bag can be worn as a backpack, carried by hand or used with a sholder strap. 'nough said.
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA Tue 10/31/2006
ATHENS TO ISTANBUL OPEN JAW
Linda; you buy open jaw tickets where you buy any ticket.
Open jaw just means you fly into one city and return from another.
Ask your favorite airline.
USA Tue 10/31/2006
Bag for Grace
Grace---I am smaller than you (5'2") and use a 22" roller bag (with backpack straps too) by Eagle Creek. It is heavier than a plain backpack, but 90% of the time I roll it, so that doesn't matter. It has plenty of room for 2-3 weeks' worth of travel clothes, etc., and will fit as a carryon unless I overstuff it.
USA Tue 10/31/2006
Bag
Can I get some opinions on a good type of bag to get? I am 5'3" and many of the bags I've looked at look too large for me. I will be traveling for 3 weeks at the end of May and don't know what type of bag to get. I am leaning towards a backpack type although wheels may be a good option depending on the size/weight of the bag. I am currently a grad student who carries about 50 pounds of books 4 days a week in a backpack so the weight isn't necessarily an issue but would be a nice break. Thank you.
Grace <email>
Roseville, CA USA Tue 10/31/2006
Re: Here to There
Aggie - You're welcome. I'd rather have a chocolate bar (less work than baking a pumpkin pie). Have a great trip!
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 10/31/2006
Belfast to St Andrews
Two senior citizens. not backpackers. need to get from Stranaer to St andrews with our luggage [resonable sizes] with the least amount of changing and exhaustion. HELP!!!
Agnes
NC, USA Tue 10/31/2006
Athens to Istanbul
Has anyone bought an inexpensive ticket to fly from Athens to Istanbul?
Also - good site to buy open jaw airline tickets?
Linda
USA Tue 10/31/2006
Hotel in Sorrento
Has anyone stayed at Hotel Bristol in Sorrento? It's been recommended but I can't see it in RS book. (hotel Minerva will be closed) I am booking in advance. thanks
Robyn <email>
Australia Tue 10/31/2006
Accordion Music in Paris
We also had the pleasure (and thrill) of hearing traditional accordion music when running through the halls of the Metro to catch our train. I heard it the first day there and was thrilled! We also stayed near Rue Cler and loved it! Enjoy!
USA Tue 10/31/2006
Germany at Christmas Time
My husband and I will be traveling to Germany Dec 6-17. We are trying to determine where we should go. So far we're convinced Munich, Nurnberg, and Rothenburg are stops, but from there we're not sure. I would love to go the Rhine Valley, but from Rick's book it seems most of it is closed down during this time. Does any one have any experience with this? Would our time be better spent else where and save the Rhine for a summer visit? We will also be spending a couple of days in Copenhagen and are willing to go other desitnations if there are suggestions for this time of year. Thanks for your help!
Rachel <email>
Portland, Oregon USA Tue 10/31/2006
One Week in France
Karen,
I want to second the suggestion that you get reservations, where possible, for the caves you want to visit. Several years ago, we had them for the Grotte de Niaux; and while we were waiting for our tour to begin, several people were turned away. If you go to Les Eyzies, be sure to include a stop at L'Abri du Cap Blanc, a site with prehistoric sculptures carved into the wall. Also, if you are going to be near Rocamadour, don't miss the Gouffre de Padirac. It's gigantic, more a cave system than cave, cut by an underground river on which you get a boat trip. No paintings, but amazing limestone formations.
USA Tue 10/31/2006
Accordian Music
On my 3 trips to Paris in the past few years, I always had the pleasure of hearing traditional accordian music while riding the Metro (free, except when the hat was passed!) ;-) Fun!
USA Tue 10/31/2006
Re: Kim Italy
I will traveling to Italy next spring also. I chose to fly in to Rome, then by train travel to Florence, Venice, Lake Como and then head on up to Zurich to fly back home. That's a 2 week trip. From all that I hear, I know I will return to Italy and will concentrate on the south the next trip. Good luck planning. I'm having a blast!
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Tue 10/31/2006
Re: Kim, Italy
Not so much specific sights, but strategy, if you have only a week or two, and have expressed an interest in Florence and Milan, stick to Northern Italy and avoid the temptation to include Naples/Pompeii and points South. Depending on your interests, I would include Rome, a truly great city, then try to find some smaller out of the way places for balance. Tuscany, Lake Como, the Dolomites, Ligurian Coast, all offer some great things to do. Train is the best and easiest way to get around, and you can build an itinerary around it easily.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 10/31/2006
Italy..where to go??
I would like to get over to Italy probably in spring of 07. What are the areas I should really concentrate on? I know there is so much to see there. I would be using trains to get around. I do want to see Florence and Milan.
Kim
Brooklyn, NY USA Tue 10/31/2006
Passports on Trains
I recently travelled on a night train from Milan to Paris. The train stopped twice in the middle of the night, once at the border in Switzerland and once at the border in France. Both times passports were checked. And yes, the train conductor took the passports for the night.
I also travelled by train for the day from Como to Lugano during the day. The train stopped at the border in Switzerland into and out of the country for officials to check the documents of passengers. Everyone in my train was asked to show a passport BOTH ways. In fact, the Swiss officials made a big deal about walking through the trains and asking everyone for documentation. It took over 20 minutes.
Cali, USA Tue 10/31/2006
Car Rental: Amboise to Toulouse
Karen - If you decide to rent a car in Amboise and drop it off in Toulouse, I suggest using Auto Europe (www.autoeurope.com), a consolidator that finds you the best deal from among the rental companies with which it has contracts. Book from home well in advance to get the best rate.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 10/31/2006
Passports on night train
to USA who wrote on 10/25 (I think), I've flown from 1 EU country to another on Ryanair, and sometimes they do ask for your passport. I remember Germany (Frankfurt Hahn) and somewhere in Italy. Additionally, I've been asked for it while driving, once when President Bush was in France and I was driving just over the border. You're taking a risk traveling (esp between countries) without a passport, IMHO.
USA Tue 10/31/2006
Luggage Storage - Toulouse
I am looking for information on storing luggage for 4 days in Toulouse, France; thinking either the train station or airport for starters.
Any info would be helpful.
Thanks.
Rebecca <email>
Berkeley, CA USA Mon 10/30/2006
Paris accordion music venues
Could you help us? We wish to know where we can find a webpage or listing of places where you can hear traditional French accordion music in Paris.
It would seem that there would be many such venues, but we have never come across one. (By the way, we prefer a simple (inexpensive or free) place – even outdoor music – rather than an actual concert.)
We will be staying on Rue Cler (7th arrondissment).
seattle
seattle, WA USA Mon 10/30/2006
Karen's week in France
Karen, this sounds like a thoughtful and fun itinerary. Be sure to get advanced reservations for those Vezere-valley caves in the summer. One village to consider on your way to Tolouse is St. Cirq (and nearby cave, the Grotte du Peche Merle).
In response to your question: Tolouse is a logical place to drop off an air traveler and your car and catch the train to Provence. (I've done it the other way, flying into Tolouse.) Your flying travel friend might also find connections at smaller regional airports, but Toulouse is the biggest.
Adam
Boston, USA Mon 10/30/2006
Experts opinion on one week in France
I'm working on a 5-week trip to France next summer, and have some constraints for one week of it. Now I'm at the point where I'm hoping the RS Travelers' Helpline folks will assist me with the logic and practicality of my itinerary!
Day 1 fly into Paris. Most flights arrive early to mid morning from our area of the US. Train to Amboise. De-jetlag hanging out, next day the castle and later Clos Luce and the light show (this would be a Wednesday)has anyone done it?. Day three, early am-pick up rental car in Amboise. Has anyone used a particular agency? Is there one, in Amboise? Drive slowly towards Beynac, including the RS- inspired side trip to Orador. Three nights based in Beynac, for caves (big deal for me!) and canoes/hikes. Drive to Rocomador, stopping for views/villages along the way- night iin a village. Last day, drive to Toulouse to drop off car and a family member who needs to fly home. Then train, for the Provence part of the trip....my big question is, is Toulouse the best place to do this? Nice and Marseilles appear too far away, Paris, would involve train and transfers and backtracking and I do see flights originiating from Toulouse airport. Have any of you flown in or out of there? Is there another option I have overlooked? Thank you in advance!
Karen
USA Mon 10/30/2006
Passports
Some of the previous posters are simply wrong about passports. First, you will not be allowed to board a plane to the US without a valid passport. If somehow you "lose" it on the way, you will not be allowed to leave a secluded area until the proper proof is provided to Customs. There are many transactions that you will not be allowed to make without a passport. Yes, thieves do sell your passport. Ours were stolen and we found out before we even got back to the states that someone had tried to use one of them. And finally, walk into a US consular office and tell them you would like a new passport and no, you don't have a copy or know the number nor do you have a police report to back up your story. Then plan to wait a very long time, i.e. many days, till you are given a new passport. None of this says anything about the paranoid behavior of newbie travelers who tremble in fear if someone wants to take their passport to write down the numbers and perhaps return it in the morning.
Charles M. Luther
USA Mon 10/30/2006
passport night trains
I was on a night train from Venice to Munich and they definetely checked my passport in the middle of the night. Come to think of it, on my night train from Milan to Rome I also had to show my passport in the middle of the night.
USA Mon 10/30/2006
Passports on overnight trains
In Italy, by law, any hotel you stay in is required to record information from you passport and report it to the police, so they know where you have been in Italy. Maybe any overnight train with a terminus in Italy (either Venice to Nice or Milan to Paris) is required to do the same.
<email>
USA Mon 10/30/2006
1st & 2nd Class Rail Passes
Most country passes (including many multicountry passes) are available in either flavor to travelers of all ages.
It's only the Eurail-based passes that restict 2nd-class passes to younger travelers.
Adam
Boston, USA Mon 10/30/2006
Re: Paul, Trip Plans
My only comment would be that Paris, Venice, and Prague are a little far flung. Maybe Paris if it is your gateway city, then flying onto Prague...Otherwise, maybe consider foregoing Paris and concentrating on the Eastern side. Krakow, Vienna, Slovenia, maybe even Croatia would all be in the same general corridor as Prague and Venice, allowing easy travel and fantastic sights.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 10/30/2006
Correction for Booking Thalys Tickets Online
In my previous post I said you could book Smilys fares at www.thalys.com up to 60 days in advance. Booking is possible up to 90 days in advance.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 10/30/2006
Bellagio
From Milan you take the train to Varenna (about an hour). Then you walk down the steep hill to the ferry dock (about a 5 minute walk). From there you can take the quick ferry to Bellagio (about 15 minutes).
SF, CA USA Mon 10/30/2006
Passports on Overnight Train
I took an overnight train 2 weeks ago from Milan to Paris. The train conductor took our railpass and passports and gave them back to us about an hour before arriving in Paris.
USA Mon 10/30/2006
Re: Questions about Trains
Reservations are required on Paris-Amsterdam and Bruges-Paris Thalys high-speed trains. No reservations needed for Amsterdam-Bruges regional trains.
Here is a cost comparison.
Four-day Second Class France-Benelux Saver Pass: $225/person. Passholder fare for Thalys trains: approximately $13. Total for your trips: $251/person.
Second class standard fares. Paris-Amsterdam: E97.50. Amsterdam-Antwerp: E38.00. Antwerp-Bruges: E12.40. Bruges-Paris: E80.00. Total is E227.90 (approximately $290.00).
However, if you book far enough in advance online at www.thalys.com, you can get Smilys fares for Paris-Amsterdam (E65.00) and Bruges-Paris (E57.00), reducing your total to E172.40 (approximately $219.00). Minimum booking is 14 days in advance, but you'll have a better chance of getting Smilys fares if you book up to 60 days in advance. Smilys tickets are return (roundtrip) only, not single (one-way). Book an arbitrary return date and throw away the unused portion. Buy your Amsterdam-Bruges tickets in Amsterdam.
If flexibility is more important than saving approximately $32/person, then buy Saver passes and make your Thalys reservations when you get to Paris.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 10/30/2006
Re: Questions about trains - Michael
Hi, Mike. Be advised that almost all trains shown in the Eurail schedule between Amsterdam and Paris, and Brugges/Brussels and Paris are Thalys trains. These trains require reservations/supplements... 20 euros for 1st class or 10 euros for 2nd class. The 1st class supplement includes a meal served to you in your seat. I've have ridden this route many times. If you go with the 1st class version you'll also get a nice little bottle of wine (ask for beaujolais or bordeaux, IMHO :-) with your meal. It is also not improper to ask for a 2nd bottle after finishing the 1st. (These bottles hold about one and a half normal wine glasses full). I have some photos of the Thalys and its meals on my photo website at picturetrail.com/bepineurope if you're interested. PS - I'm leaving for Europe tomorrow morning, flying into Frankfurt. <--- (Just to rub everyone's face in it! :-) Ciao for niao.
Bob C. <email>
North Little Rock, AR USA Mon 10/30/2006
Getting to Bellagio
Can anyone advise on how to get to Bellagio (Lake Como) from Milan? Is it to Varenna and then backtrack by ferry? Thanking in advance (again).
Robyn <email>
Australia Sun 10/29/2006
Questions about trains
Reservations depend on a few things - when are you travelling? Are you using night trains? I believe it is advisable to reserve night trains if you want sleeping accommodation. If it is daytime, even in a busy period, I would not make reservations from here. Much easier and more flexible to make them at the station a day or two before you travel. We have never had a problem getting the train we wanted. We usually make onward reservations when we arrive at a new cityefore we leave the station.
Advantages of reserving:
You know you will have a seat, though it is seldom a problem.
The reservation has a car number on it, so you know you are in the right part of the train. In Europe, trains get broken up and parts go to different places - it is important to be on the part that goes to your destination! A reservation ensures you get on the right car.
Iain
Edmonton, AB Canada Sun 10/29/2006
re: passports & overnight trains
I recently took an overnight train from Vienna to Frankfurt. I don't believe the attendant took our passports at all. She did take a look at them along with our tickets when we boarded/checked in (we were traveling on a railpass, so it was routine). On the other hand, if they had asked for passports, I certainly would have given then over without worry.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Sun 10/29/2006
Amy - 1st and 2nd class
It all depends. In general, 1st class cars often have compartments, while 2nd class just has rows of seats. want some privacy? If you're in 1st class, as long as the car isn't full (and they often aren't), you can pop into an empty compartment, close the door behind you, and probably have the compartment to yourselves. Of course, as others have pointed out, if you feel like mixing with others, there's nothing stopping you from sitting in 2nd class.
The quality of the amenities in 1st class car vary quite a bit. Some cars are newer, with leather seats, power outlets for laptops, etc. Others have some miles on them. All should be pretty comfy.
BTW, on some routes, there won't be any 1st class cars.
Also, if you're buying a railpass, I believe that unless you're under 27, you have no choice but to buy a 1st class pass (of course, if you're buying individual tickets, you can go 2nd class no matter your age).
Hope that helps.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Sun 10/29/2006
1st vs 2nd Class
Perhaps it matters on the country - but as rick states - you can travel with the nuns and soldiers in 2nd and make new friends, or as in my case recently, a few groups of teachers and kids on school outings and footballer-fans on their way to an important match. Amazing how fluently these young kids speak english from many years of english classes at early age!
Or you can ride in first with business folks who are busy working and not really interested in your adventure travel - while still friendly and curteous they are maybe too busy for too much chit-chat.
One thing to keep in mind also is that some local run trains may have limited 1st class compartments. I dont remember noticing any FULL first class cars.
If you only go on a few trips (long trips) first may be great like in any form of travel; but for quick on-off travel to many destination thru the back door, it may be easier and cost effective to travel 2nd. (and spend the extra $ at nicer upgrades at family B&B/Hotels and Restaurants!
TMB
CA USA Sun 10/29/2006
1st versus 2nd class
For a couple in their 40's traveling by train, what really is the difference between first and second class? What should we consider in choosing between the two?
Amy
Portland, OR USA Sun 10/29/2006
Questions about trains
My wife and I are considering the Benelux-France saverpass (Eurail) train from Paris to Amsterdam, then Amsterdam to Brugges, and back to Paris over two weeks. Would reservations be required or recommended for any of these trains? Anyone with experience on these or other routes, thoughts please!
Michael
Portland, OR USA Sun 10/29/2006
1 more take on passports
Not to belabor the topic - but I recently discussed passports with a friend in the Swiss Consulate. She thought it was so odd that we Americans get so paranoid about our passports. (I often am!) She said they would get Swiss passports found in the trash or gutters, returned to the consualte up to a year later. Those looking to take from travelers where only interested in Cash or valuables easily sold - not Passports or IDs which can so quickly be voided; they discard them. With everything being electronic now, no one would try to use someone elses passport at a modern boarder. Be that as it may, I (like many readers) would still recommened a money belt. Whether a big deal or not - not having it could still be a hassel to any travel program far away from home!
RE: Trains - most euopeans only need a Drivers Lic sized I.D. card as their "passport" for EU travel. They only need their full passports if they leave the EU communities - so I cant imagine conductors asking for those. For non-EU residents, the rules may be different for security. No German hotel asked for my passport when I went this summer, nor do I remember ever giving it up at hotels on a tour of Italy years ago. The friendly German Train conductors did often ask (or expect) it for Rail Pass validation. For hotels, just make B&W copy if they ask for it! Maybe Rick will add more comments on his next new shows! Ask you local consulates in the mean time!
Tom
Newport BEach, CA USA Sun 10/29/2006
Duetche Bank ATMs in Rome - or anywhere
I found using Google Maps helpful for looking up locations on maps in Germany for my recent trip. Try it for Rome (or anyplace). If you have the full address (with country), just type of copy-paste into maps.google.com website. Even has satelite maps which can come in handy!
Tom
Newport Beach, CA USA Sun 10/29/2006
Duetche Bank ATMs in Rome
From the Deutche Bank webwite, I can see where there are ATM locations with addresses (to use my Bank of America card) in Rome, but I haven't yet been able to specifically locate them on a map. Can anyone suggest a very good map of Rome where I can locate these addresses OR tell if if you remember if any of these ATMs are near any of the majors sights? We will be staying on the Via Cavour and we'd like to know if possible where the ATM locations are.
Thanks in advance for your help!
Cyn
USA Sun 10/29/2006
Moneybelts in UK
Frinds who live in Liverpool do not worry much about security there or in northern England, but they take precautions and carry nothing of value in their pockets in London.
Brooke
Salt Lake City, UT USA Sun 10/29/2006
passport and trains
We traveled from Venice to Paris on the night train in June of this year. The conductor DID collect our passport (and everyone elses), just as was done 2 years ago when we took the train from Venice to Nice. The first time we did it, we felt a little strange but we didn't think much about it this time. While I don't have any of my Rick Steves books handy - I seem to recall reading (or seeing it on one of his shows) that the conductor will collect passports on overnight trains for the passenger's convenience - in case there is a problem. I don't know what the problem would be but we weren't worried. Maybe we're fools but everyone else on the train was just as foolish so at least we weren't alone. :0)
Connie <email>
FL USA Sun 10/29/2006
Paris & Innsbruck
Thanks Darcy for your information. The Paris hotel is Eber Mars. The hotel in Innsbruck has accommodation, and the receptionist has sent me lots of information on the area.
Robyn <email>
Australia Sun 10/29/2006
England $$$
Two questions in England any problem using standard visa ?/ Some chat about chip and pin required. I called City bank they said should be no problem with standard card. any problems at bank changing new 100's
John Brangwin <email>
Bellevue, Wa USA Sun 10/29/2006
Verona, Italy Hotels
My husband and I will be traveling to Verona,Italy in April. We are trying to decide between two hotels listed in Rick's book that have rooms available for the dates we will be there. The two hotels are Hotel Giulietta e Romeo and Hotel Torcolo. Has anyone stayed at either of these hotels, and if so what is your opinion of them?
Anita Langford <email>
Columbus, GA USA Sun 10/29/2006
Passports and Trains
Prior to the EU it was common practice on night trains for train conductors to collect passports for border crossings. It was viewed as a convenience for the train traveler. However we had not used an overnight since the EU was formed. Our travel pattern has changed. With the relaxed border controls under EU, I assume that this practice may not be necessary. Someone who has traveled recently on an overnight train needs to comment.
Some travelers are very paranoid about giving up passports to hotel clerks, conductors, etc. We have done it for over 30 years with no problems. It is a common and accept practice in Europe. Iowa's concern about a copy of a passport giving complete control of your assets is misplaced. While it is a recognized government ID, the passport doesn't contain a home address, a social security number or other critical information for identity theft. Giving your credit card to an unknown waiter carries far greater risk than giving your passport to a train conductor or a hotel clerk.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Sun 10/29/2006
Passports taken on overnight train
If you take a night train from Paris to Italy, the conductor WILL take your passport and keep it overnight. Whether or not he makes a copy, I don't know. But you will get it back in the morning. I don't think you have a choice.
USA Sat 10/28/2006
Greek ferries
Linda, Yes, I have taken the ferry from Samos to Athens. Just standard ferry stuff. Nothing unusual.
USA Sat 10/28/2006
Paris Hotels
The "no eating in the room" rule seems common in Paris. I do it anyway, without dripping or creating messes or food smells. When finished I bundle up the "rubbish" into a plastic bag and haul it outside to a trashbag on the street.
Swan
USA Sat 10/28/2006
Pass Port
I have never heard of literally giving one's passport to Train personnel. Plus, if a criminal has a copy of your passport, they may take complete control of your identify and assets as it is the ultimate form of ID. I am curious about other people's experience with this issue.
Iowa USA Sat 10/28/2006
Re: Trip Plans
Have been to the cities you indicate seveal times. You will have a great time.
Jeff
NJ USA Sat 10/28/2006
trip plans
only have about two weeks for my next trip to europe...was thinking about doing 4 nights in Prague, 4 nights in Venice and 4 nights in paris (my fav city)
thoughts???
Paul
USA Sat 10/28/2006
pasport
never give your pasport to train person the y make copies of it over nite
francios
paris, USA Sat 10/28/2006
Go Ahead Tours
Has anyone traveled with Go Ahead tours before? I've traveled w/EF Educational Tours before and this was listed on their web-site.
Renee
USA Sat 10/28/2006
Istanbul to Athens
Yes leaving from Kusadasi, Turkey. Anyone with experience of ferry to Samos then ferry to Athens?
Linda
USA Sat 10/28/2006
Hotels--Paris & Innsbruck
Hi Robyn--I looked in Rick's 2004 book for Innsbruck and found the Hotel Weisses Kreutz (E48 per person in a Db), near the Golden Roof in the pedestrian area. In '93 we ate at a wonderful restaurant just a couple of doors down from the Golden Roof--wish I could remember the name for you.
Were you by any chance looking into the Hôtel Grand Lévèque? It is possible to smuggle food into the room but very carefully!
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Sat 10/28/2006
Paris hotels & Innsbruck
Some more advice please. The hotel I was booking into in Paris states on its website that no food or hot drinks are to be consumed in the room, is this common practice in Europe?
Can anyone advise of accommodation in Innsbruck suitable for a family with 2 teenagers. I'm probably looking at the lower to middle price range?
Thanks again in advance
Robyn <email>
Australia Sat 10/28/2006
Re: Belfast to St. Andrews
Rail and Sail with Stena Line (www.stenaline.co.uk) is your best route.
Take a Stena Line ferry from Belfast to Stranraer, leaving at either 07:35 or 12:20. Take the train from Stranraer to Leuchars (the station for St. Andrews), leaving at either 10:00 or 14:37. There will be several train changes. See www.nationalrail.co.uk for the timetables.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 10/27/2006
Belfast>St. Andrews
Why depend on someone here rather that going directly to the British Rail website and look it up yourself? If you can find this board you should surely be able to find the BR site.
USA Fri 10/27/2006
Holidays and Observances
Hi folks;
Gwen's comment about Boxing Day in the Uk is right on. Every country has its own holidays and observances. Here is a link that is a useful tool to help discover which holidays are kept in various countries. You can enter the year, use the drop-down menu to set the country in question, and find the results in a list at the bottom of the calendar. That way if you're in France on 14th of July, you'll know why everyone is so excited and shops might not be open. Or, on the 26th of December most of Britain seems to be home recovering from Christmas.
http://www.timeanddate.com/calendar/
Michael <email>
Edmonton, Canada Fri 10/27/2006
london hotel
annexe hotel
joe
USA Fri 10/27/2006
BELFAST TO ST ANDREWS
Agnes......call these agencies which sell RR tickets and ask your questions: 1 800 441 2387, 1 800 722 7151, 1 800 441 2387, 1 800 352 7661, 1 800 4387245, 1 800 806 7245.
H.A.B.
NYC, NY USA Fri 10/27/2006
Belfast -> St Andrews
Help. Need to get from Belfast to St Andrews. Have a BritRail pass and would like to use the train - what is the route, timing, etc?
Agnes
USA Fri 10/27/2006
Trains - Boxing Day
REMINDER TO ALL OF US SILLY AMERICANS. Train service in UK does not exist on Dec. 26th!! Boxing Day. National Coach line is running and has some 'funfares' ie 19pounds 1 way Lon to Edinburgh. good luck, happy holiday
Gwen
NC USA Fri 10/27/2006
Europe costs
Lisa - Sandiego - if yo have not already purchased your tx. check out www.autoeruope.com 1-800-835-1555. I caught a 443.00 r/t to london from Raleigh
Gwen
NC USA Fri 10/27/2006
Re: Linda, Istanbul to Athens
If your Turkey tour winds up at Kiridasi (Kusadasi?) maybe consider the ferry over to Samos, Greece; then either ferry via a few islands back to Athens or cheap flight on Aegean Air back to Athens.
Paul <email>
IA USA Fri 10/27/2006
Sleeping aids
People react differently to medications. Some people react differently in the pressurized cabin of an airplane. If traveling alone, consider the risk of being in a medicated stupor in a public place (yes that includes the flight). Some people simply take a nap when they arrive at their destination, then go to bed and rise on local time.
Kim
Iowa USA Thu 10/26/2006
Air tickets to Europe
I have to laugh at you guys complaining about the price of tickets to Europe and how long the flight is - pleeease. You don't know how lucky you are. No wonder when I read comments like 'this is my NINTH time in Europe"!!!!! I turn a very bright shade of green.
If we lot 'down under' can get a return ticket under $1600 we would be very lucky. The thought of being on a plane for at least 23 hours sure takes the enjoyment away somewhat.
Judy
Adelaide, SA Australia Thu 10/26/2006
One-Way Flight to Europe
Lewis -- I am sure you can. You just missed the flight. But you may want to work with a travel agent and see if you can get a ticket that doesn't have a specified return. When our son spent a semester in Spain he had a ticket with an open return. I think, not sure, he was required to give a two week notice for the return trip.
Frank P., <email>
Centennial, CO USA Thu 10/26/2006
Amsterdam B&B
We just stayed at this B&B in Amsterdam during October. It was very clean and in a quiet neighborhood. We had the double room with private bath for 100 euro/night. Well worth it.
http://www.bedandbreakfastamsterdam.net/rooms.html
CA USA Thu 10/26/2006
London Hotel
Hi
Does anyone have any recommendations for a hotel in London that is not expensive but is close to the "Thistle Marble Arch Hotel", which is where my tour begins, as I will be in London a few days before the tour starts and I cannot afford to stay at this Hotel for more than one night.
Vanessa
Melbourne, Victor Australia Thu 10/26/2006
Re; London Tickets
I agree with the previous post on this topic. I have utilized gotoday on three trips to Europe: London, Munich, and Rome.
Jeff
NJ USA Thu 10/26/2006
One-Way Flight to Europe
I have a question regarding airfare to Germany in October 2007. We will be returning home on the Carnival Transatlantic cruise from Rome to Miami. In looking at airfares, the one-way ticket is several times the cost of a roundtrip ticket. Can I purchase roundtrip and use only the flight to Germany? Are there other acceptable options to avoid the cost of one-way tickets.
Lewis
Apex, NC USA Thu 10/26/2006
Sleep aids
Ambien comes in two strengths as far as I know. My Dr. gives me the 10 milligram and I can break one in two if I don't think I need a whole one. I usually take a whole one and I think they are wonderful. If you got the l0 milligram one you could only take half of it and I don't think it would make you sleepy at all. Even if you didn't get a full 8 hours of sleep. They are scored down the middle so it is easy to break them.
USA Thu 10/26/2006
tickets to London
Lisa,
A great source for London packages is go-today. Website is: www.go-today.com I have used them several times (6) to be exact. A great value!!
Mark
IN USA Thu 10/26/2006
Sleep Aid
I take over the counter sleeping pills on red eyes because I can't sleep on planes either. I also bring an eye mask and ear plugs. It works for me.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Thu 10/26/2006
Tickets to London
I want to go to London in Dec (6-10). Tickets are running about $450-$500 with tax right now. Should I buy now or does anyone know of any special deals that come up 1+ month before traveling to London OR any last minute deals there were able to get?
Lisa
San Diego, CA USA Thu 10/26/2006
Istanbul to Athens
Flying into Istanbul - touring Turkey then to Athens. Suggestions on travel options Kisadasi to Athens? At end of trip better to go back to Istanbul and back to US or fly out ot Athens at end of trip to US?
Linda
USA Thu 10/26/2006
Hotel Der Tannenbaum - Munich
Any experience with this place? It looks fairly close to Munich's Altstadt and it very affordable.
Tim
USA Thu 10/26/2006
Sleep Aids
Marhanal-Ambien has worked like a dream (no pun intended) for my husband on our flights to Europe. It affects different people in different ways so you should try it at home first when you know you will have a long night (7 hrs). We are on the East Coast so we don't have a very long flight and he doesn't take it immediately so he gets about 5 hours of sleep on most European flights. He does not get groggy or have any of the other side affects (short term memory problems) even though he does not sleep for the full 7 hours. I've heard good things about the new sleep aids like Lunestra. My kids use OTC meds like Benadryl and Dramamine but no OTC stuff, even Excedrin PM, Tylenal PM, etc. ever worked very well for my husband so we are very happy with the Ambien.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 10/26/2006
sleep aids
I've used Tylenal PM and that's been good to help me rest on flights. No hand over, no drowsy feeling. Don't have to devote 7-8 hours to sleep. It's just strong enough to help me rest and fall alseep, and feel better when waking up.
Anyway, this is what has worked for me - you might try it at home one night to see if it affects your sleep/waking, before you take your trip.
USA Thu 10/26/2006
Amsterdam Hotels
What exactly do you mean by "reasonably priced" - under $100? And is it for 1 or 2 people?
USA Thu 10/26/2006
Re: Sleep aids
Marhanal - You're probably referring to Rick's mention of Ambien. Once it's
worked its way out of your system, there's no "hangover" effect. But, like
their ads say, you need to devote 7-8 hours when taking it. If you wake up
after anything less than 7 hours or so, it will still be in your system and
you'll be pretty groggy. Considering how many interruptions that can
happen on a plane flight, I would hesitate to recommend it for use on the
plane. Perhaps an over-the-counter sleep aid would be a better choice,
since they're not as strong. Although I can't comment on any hangover
effect from them, since I've not used them.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Thu 10/26/2006
Amsterdam Hotels
Can anyone recommend a reasonably priced hotel or B&B in Amsterdam? Preferrably in a quiet neighborhood but in walking distance to the Van Gogh Museum?
Betsy
Cleveland, Ohio USA Thu 10/26/2006
Sleep aids
I realize this question is not strictly pertaining to a specific European destination. But I fly a lot for business and am leaving next week for my 5th trip to Europe. I don't really get jet lag but rather "sleep lag". I am unable to sleep once the plane gets off the ground so my first day is always wasted. By day two, once I've had some sleep,I feel great. Can anyone recommend something that won't leave me with a drug hangover to deal with? I know in one of Rick's articles he mentioned something that had worked for him but I can't locate the article. Any help will be appreciated! I don't want to spend one of my days in Venice feeling like a zombie!
Marhanal <email>
USA Thu 10/26/2006
camping in italy
in umbria, late march, specifically.
is it possible to do proper camping here? i don't mean a villa or a caravan. somewhere we can pitch a tent. i'm having a really hard time finding out how to do this online. any help greatly appreciated, thanks!
mona <email>
uk Thu 10/26/2006
Newbie in Europe - thanks
Just wanted to say thanks all, for all the advice, it's been enough that I'm just going to do it... Will get the tickets bought sometime this week, and make a go at it...
FYI, and ya the plan is to fly into london, out of rome...
Again thanks
Larry <email>
Brookigns, SD USA Wed 10/25/2006
Passports on night train
This past May I took a night train from Paris to Venice. Before you go to sleep the train attendent comes around and collects everyones passports and puts them in a special folder, because you go through customs(in Switerland) at like 2am. I was nervous about this but read about it in Rick's books, and the other people in my compartment assured me it was safe. I had no problems and my passport was returned to me in the morning a few hours before arriving in Venice.
The only other countries that I went through customs were London and Amsterdam.
<email>
Canada Wed 10/25/2006
Newbie travel--- Larry
Larry- The UK is very "do-able" alone in the time you have. You could do soooo much! Stay in London and do day trips to Stratford on Avon, Bath, York, Cardiff, etc. Or do a few days there then go to Cardiff, York, Edinburgh, etc for a few days each. The UK is a great place to "get you travel legs". My husband and I have been more than 40 times and still find new things to do each trip! Don't worry about being alone, you'll remedy that once you get there... or not.. and have lots of fun and learn loads either way.
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA Wed 10/25/2006
Passports on Night Train
The only place I have encountered border patrol on a train was through Switzerland (into and out of). I have not been on a night train. I have heard from other people that some train officials take your passport for the night. I am curious what others have experienced with passports on night trains.
USA Wed 10/25/2006
Fashion anywhere adds to the fun
Thinking about what to pack, like reading about what to see and where to eat, adds to the fun of vacation planning. All these things allow me to start dreaming about my trips months ahead. Yes, of course you can wear or not wear whatever you want and don't "have" to care what the locals do (we don't really "have" to do most things, including travel), but those like "Armchair Traveller" who post a specific question are obviously curious and interested in the current trends of various places, so can we stop dismissing such questions with a "doesn't matter" or "just wear whatever you do at home"?
Fiona
NYC, Wed 10/25/2006
B&B's in Scotland
I have used Rick's books many times for travel. I will be traveling to the UK this February/2007. Need recommendations to stay in Edinburgh and Aberdeen Scotland. Any help would be appreciated.
Mark <email>
Gas City, IN USA Wed 10/25/2006
Fashon in Paris
I was there in September, totally prepared for rain, and it was 85 degrees! So I was walking around in my capree jeans, long sleeve henley, and Croc's and people kept coming up to me asking me for directions...to heck with "You must wear black in Paris and dress to the nine's", people obviously thought I lived there and I dressed just like to do at home in Seattle!
USA Wed 10/25/2006
Newbie in Europe
If I were traveling for the first time to Europe and going solo, I too would probably start in England for comfort's sake. So you are planning around 10 days? You could stick to the UK and take the train to Scotland or a city-hopper flight to Dublin, maybe a train also to Wales. All pricey places, but wonderful to visit. The good thing with the colder weather is that there tends to be fewer tourists around.
Alternatively, if you like cities, you could try Amsterdam or Copenhagen since in both cities English is spoken (and very well). Lots of wonderful museums, pubs, architecture, shopping, friendly people, etc, in all 3 cities, and lots of great walking plus excellent public transportation. Look for early Christmas shopping possibilities.
Do as a previous poster suggested and buy a multi-language phrase book, so you can at least learn a few key phrases in Dutch and Danish, for example. Consider taking cheap flights on the discount airlines from London to other cities, or from Amsterdam to other cities. Lots available.
As for accommodations, try single rooms in hostels or in B&B's - fun way to get in touch with other travelers or with the local people.
Whatever you do, first check out any "city cards" for the cities you decide to visit (type in city cards and the name of the city in Google) - the kind that you pay a flat fee for and then get entrance to museums and transportation for one price - excellent way to see more, pay less, and experience less hassles in lines!
You'll have a great time!
Phoebe
Tallahassee, FL USA Wed 10/25/2006
Passports on night train
I haven't done it on a train, but I've crossed borders many times within the EU. There's no border control. That's the beauty of the EU. Even when flying from one country to another, if you're going from one EU country to another, you simply deplane.
This became very important to us one time when my husband's passport was stolen on a Friday afternoon (so no possibility of replacement for 3 days) in France. We were due to meet a friend in Turin the next day. We just drove as planned, and he was able to go the U.S. consulate in Milan at a more convenient time.
USA Wed 10/25/2006
Fashion in Paris
To Arm Chair Traveller - we were in Paris in late September and it seemed to me that a lot of flats are being worn, i.e. ballet type. We saw some of the chanel variety as usual, and other variations on the theme. And as usual, lots of black, and I did notice more pearls this year than before. Mend quickly and get back on the road.
Cassidy
New Caanan, CT USA Wed 10/25/2006
Owl Hotel Amsterdam
Does anyone know any information about the Owl Hotel in Amsterdam? Has anyone stayed there?
Elizabeth Cotter <email>
rocky river, Ohio USA Wed 10/25/2006
Fashion in Paris
Hello everyone! For those of you who have recently been in Paris, could you post what the fashion looks like these days from your observations? My husband and I had planned a trip there for this week, but I took a tumble off of a ladder at the beginning of October, broke my leg, and am going nowhere for a while. I would love to hear what cool things are being worn, and it may help me mend a bit quicker. Thanks!
Arm Chair Traveller
Minneapolis, MN USA Wed 10/25/2006
Bergen, Norway - Flight to Copenhagen
I took RS Scandinavia tour in July. I flew from Seattle to Copenhagen on SAS.
I made additional connecting flights on SAS from Copenhagen to Helsinki, Tallin to Stockholm, and Bergen to Copenhagen, all on SAS. Hard to tell the price from B to C, but figured it to be less than $100. What airline are you taking to Europe? Check with them to see it they fly that route. I have taken 4 RS tours and the Scandinavia one is my favorite, closely followed by Best Of Europe (21 days). Happy travels
Aloha Charlie <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Wed 10/25/2006
Newbie to Europe
If my 22 year old daughter with no foreign language skills can do it, then I'm sure you can.
I'd concentrate on one country, maybe two. England is expensive, but here is a lot to see.
My daughter started in London, took the "chunnel" to the mainland, spend a couple of days in Amsterdam(which she didnt' like), then trained it to Germany, basing out of Munich.
She had a kick in Germany and would like to go back.
The trains are NOT hard to figure out. Ask for help, and once you've done it you'll be fine for future trips.
Like others have said, skip Rome....too far to travel on this trip. If you had an open jaw, flying into London and out of Rome, then that would be OK, but you will spend lots of time wasted traveling on a train to get from Paris to Rome!
USA Wed 10/25/2006
Rick - newbie travel p.s.
Larry - P.S.....Rick has a 10 day Rome/Venice/Florence tour at the end of Nov. so you might want to check that out as well. I'm a huge fan of Rick's tours (can you tell?). After you have taken one, you can travel over there again with SO much confidence to do it on your own.
Renee
CO USA Wed 10/25/2006
Larry - newbie trip
Larry, this might not work out date-wise, but you might consider Rick's 7 day London/Paris tour. Let Rick's staff figure out all the transportation and lodging and you just go learn and have fun! Check out the dates and itinerary on this website. Just a thought - but if the dates don't work for you, your trip is definitely doable even as a newbie. I'd advise skipping Rome this time and spending more time in the other two places. Or if you are really looking for warmer weather, do a Rome/Florence trip this time (although they may not be all that warm anyway!) Have fun either way!
Renee
CO USA Wed 10/25/2006
Re: Newbie in Europe
Larry,
I would suggest dropping either Paris or Rome. You'll spend too much time travelling and not enough time sight-seeing. As far as seeking warmer weather, if you're from South Dakota, then Paris in November should be a mild spring day for you!
As far as not being able to speak French or Italian, I've found Rick's French/German/Italian phrasebook to be the best thing out there. Just being able to say, in the local language, "Please", "Thank you", "I'm sorry", "I don't speak French/Italian", and "Do you speak English?" go a long way towards being able to get around. (All of these are in the first few pages of Rick's phrasebook.)
You mentioned about finding a hotel. If you know how long you'll be in each
city, I would suggest buying a guidebook, finding 2 or 3 hotels that seem
good and within your price range, then reserving a room by email. This will
save you valuable sight-seeing time. English on the emails almost always
works fine for me. By the way, many hotels in Europe offer
rooms with just one bed, which are cheaper than a room for 2 people. Make
sure you ask for a "single room".
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Wed 10/25/2006
Re: Newbie
In multiple trips, while there have been minor language difficulties, it is easy to get by speaking only English. Learn a few key phrases, and try, your efforts will be appreciated. Your plan isn't bad, maybe another night in Paris, splitting the trip roughly equally might be an idea, but if you fly open jaw (Into London, out of Rome) then it works. No need to plug, but get the latest copy of Europe Through the Back Door; it was my bible before I went on my first trip and is really one of only a few guides on "How" to travel as opposed to "Where" to travel. Many of your questions will be answered in there. Feel free to ask more specific questions as they come up.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 10/25/2006
Europe Newbie reply
Larry - A couple of days in Paris is way to short. I suggest 3-4 days in London - then Eurostar to Paris for seven nights. You can get Eurostar tickets from Steve. I think you will find Paris enough of a 'culture shock' although most people can speak English. Then plan to go to Rome another time. We visited Rome at the end of November one year only to find cold, miserable weather. You might have to get the Eurostar back to London for one more night if you have to fly back from there.
Franny
Seattle, Wa USA Wed 10/25/2006
Newbie in Europe
Looking to do some travel yet this fall, probably at the end of November, realize that this might not be the "best" time of year, but I'll be teaching next semster, and summers are never good for me. Anyways, I'm just looking for some general advice. This will be my first trip to eruope, something I really want to do, and have given up trying to find someone to go with, so I'm looking at making a solo effort, and I guess I'm a little worried about how bad the "culture sock" is going to be. So my question, for a first time traveler, traveling alone, with well, no ablility to speak anything other then english, would this tavel plan be "doable". I'm really looking at flying into London, spending 3-4 days there, train to Paris, 1-2 days there (just kind of a pass through) then night train to Rome, in the hunt for a little warmer weather, spend 3-4 days there. I guess my "worry" is the 14 hr or so it looks like it will take to get from paris to rome. Being as I've never done the whole train thing (being from SD mass transit is not a common thing ;-) ). Just wondering how easy, again for a english speaking only person to make that leg of the trip, find a/the hotel, and get around Rome for a few days, and then find the airport.
Anyways I welcome any advice, any suggestions, I really see this trip as a "intro to europe" where I want to figure all the mass transit stuff out, get used to the culture, and if I have time see a few sights.
thanks much for any info you may have
Larry <email>
Brookings, SD USA Wed 10/25/2006
TGV delay
I travelled by TGV and Eurostar from Annecy to London 24/10/2006. Time allowed to cross Paris from Gare de Lyon to Gare du Nord was a generous 2 hours but this was seriously eroded when we were stuck in a siding for about an hour. Announcements were made on the train PA system but they were so poor that I doubt if a fluent French speaker could understand them. We were left with a fraught dash across Paris and after being held up by Security by an unidentified object in my luggage only just managed to get on the train before it left. Purely as a matter of interst I would like to find out what the holdup was caused by. How can I find out?
Ray Jackson <email>
Poole Dorset, England Wed 10/25/2006
Hotel with a view
Does anyone know of a hotel in Paris with a view of the Eiffel tower for under $200 dollars? We will be on our honeymoon and want something romantic.
Crystal Makerney <email>
Austin, TX USA Tue 10/24/2006
Passports on Night Train
I will be taking a night train from Milan to Paris. Do riders have to give their passports to the train official for the night while we pass through different countries?
Berkeley, USA Tue 10/24/2006
meet up with daughter
one thing to remember it will be much hotter in june....
I would suggest doing the trip open jaws....fly into madrid and then after visiting I suggest go to Barcelona and from Barcelona you can fly to Paris using one of the low cost airlines. I am almost postive easy jet flies barcelona to Paris....
bluedenim
Tue 10/24/2006
Luggage storage in Windsor UK
My family and I tried to arrange a trip which would have dictated using luggage storage facilities in Windsor.
When I contacted the Tourism Information Center (TIC) there, I was informed that Windsor is a "garrison" town (munitions, the Castle, etc.) and that there is NO left-luggage facility available.
If you stay at a B&B and will return there later in the trip as a guest, they might (MIGHT) hold your excess bags....contact them well in advance by email to discuss it.
Diane
Iowa City, IA USA Tue 10/24/2006
Liz-Dublin
Do Dublin first--- you do not want to miss seeing the Book of Kells and Trinity College Library (the old library). See if you can figure out how the books in the old library are arranged.
Charlotte <email>
FL USA Tue 10/24/2006
Liz - Dublin
Definitely do Dublin first...hit the highlights and then move on. Dingle and the rest of the country is so much more enjoyable. You'll be glad you left the countryside for last!
Kathy
VA USA Tue 10/24/2006
Advance Purchase Train Ticket
I will be in Rome during May Day, which I believe is a huge holiday in Europe. I leave for Florence on May 2. Should I purchase my train ticket prior to arrival to be on the safe side?
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Tue 10/24/2006
Re: Base City in England
Wow, that's tough. The problem is that all three are significant distances away from each other, not really conducive to a "base" city plan. You would be hours each day on a train, with only a couple of hours at the destination. Maybe look into finding a left luggage service in London, or perhaps stay in a hotel in London your first and last night, and see if they would hold your excess luggage. Then a circuit trip (Bath, Liverpool, Hadrians wall, then why not York?) would be easy.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 10/24/2006
Finding a Base City in England
We've had a change in plans and find we're going to be in England for 6 days before heading to Rome for a cruise. We've visited a couple of times in London and traveled a little through Britain on the trains (thanks to Rick's great books and DVDs). There are a couple of places we HOPE to see, but would like to set up a "base" and do trips out from there to avoid the on-and-off of the trains and dragging our limited, but more-than-normal-when-we-are-on-trains luggage. We'd like to visit Liverpool, Bath (been to Stonehenge), and Hadrian's wall. These are places we missed on our last train trip when our flight was delayed and we missed a couple of days. So, I know how to get then with the train going place-to-place... anyone more familiar with the area have a suggestion as to a base city that might allow us to get to and from those places from the base location/hotel? We leave Nov 3 so I need to get some ideas SOON - Thanks. We welcome any and all info from fellow travelers AND/OR ETBD staff members!
Mary <email>
Lancaster, CA USA Tue 10/24/2006
Liz...Dublin first
I too feel that you should do Dublin first. Do the highlights, then get out of town. For me, the best of Ireland is the people, the countryside, and the music. Dingle is wonderful. You will enjoy your stay. Ask in the pubs about any local concerts. If any are on, be sure to stop by.
George
PA USA Mon 10/23/2006
BB.....CARRY ON LUGGAGE
Call your airline or read their webpage.
Every airline has different regulations.
Also check any other airlines you plan to fly in Europe and on the return flight.
USA Mon 10/23/2006
Carry on Bags
My friend and I are leaving for Europe next week, and are still confused on hand luggages.
Would anyone who had recently traveled give ideas on what is and what is not allowed including the type of hand bag that can be carried on board.
Thank you!
BB
LA, CA USA Mon 10/23/2006
Meet up with Daughter in Madrid-she'll be in Study Abroad Program
Our daughter will be in Madrid from Feb-June next year in a Study Abroad Program. My husband & I want to meet her at some point and see Madrid & other places in Spain. Also hope to be able to see Paris before returning home. Should we go during her breaks (Holy Week & a week or so later) or wait until June? What other cities should we go to - we will have about 2 1/2-3 weeks tops. Thanks.
Sue <email>
Reisterstown, MD USA Mon 10/23/2006
Re: England to Ireland
I have done parts of the trip, not the Ferry though. If you have plenty of time, the train through England and into Wales, then Ferry to Ireland would be a nice trip. Take some time to stop a few places along the way, making it at least a 3 day trip though. If you rush it any more, then you might as well fly direct.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 10/23/2006
Costa de La Luz advice/opinions?
Hello,
I am interested in exploring Spain's Costa de La Luz with my husband and three mostly grown kids next July and I am having trouble finding the kind of info that would help us decide which part of the coast to stay on. There are two provinces, Cadiz and Huelva. Can anyone give me info, opinions or advice on favorite towns, best/favorite/most or least windy beaches, places to stay--not camping but no luxury required, beaches/towns that are least crowded or least crowded with foreign visitors, or anything else you think relevant? We are very relaxed travelers, don't need "nightlife" aside from places to eat when at the beach, always prefer a small town, but open to all suggestions.
Thanks,
Coral
Diane <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA Mon 10/23/2006
Munich Stay
I stayed at a hostel/hotel, can't remember the name of it off hand, but it is really close to the train station. As soon as you exit the station, walk across the street. There is a major department to the left and the hostel/hotel is to the right. There is a beer garden right in front of it, how convienent right?! We didn't make any reservations, just walked right in and asked for any vacancies. The hostel rooms are nice, bunk beds if you don't mind that, and a community bath/shower. I don't know about the hotel rooms too much, but they seemed nice. Breakfast was very good, and is included if you have hotel room. There are advertisements for the hostel/hotel at the train station, which is how we found out about it.
USA Mon 10/23/2006
Re: Ireland - Dublin First or Last?
Seeing the Book of Kells is a very moving experience and the room you enter first gives you a wonderful introduction to the book. In your case, definitely see Dublin first.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 10/23/2006
Ireland -- Dublin first, or last?
Because we booked over Christmas (12/20-12/30) we went with a self catering apartment over a pub in Dingle (An Dangean)for 12/23-12/30. We fly into Dublin on 12/20 (arrive morning of 12/21). Should we immediately head towards Dingle, and stop over in Killarney,Rock of Cashel area (and go to Dublin at the end of our trip?) Or should we go to Dublin first,since the only chance to see the Book of Kells will be on 12/21 (then it closes until January)?
Liz
USA Sun 10/22/2006
Andy....Tour Guide London?
If you decide to go the tour guide route, I can recommend someone who is absolutely outstanding. Her website is: www.sallybotwright.co.uk
Nicky
San Francisco, USA Sun 10/22/2006
JeanBean - Venice
We are planning to stay in Venice next April and have reserved an apartment through www.venere.com - the name of it is Venezia Vaniglia Arts and Apartments. It's located in the Castello quarter (I think it's more off the beaten track, at least I hope so) and is a 10 min walk from Piazza San Marco. I've also been looking on www.sleepinitaly.com for an apartment in Rome. On the venere website, you can see the reviews and ratings of the hotels, B&B's, and apartments listed to help you choose. Good luck!!
Beth
USA Sun 10/22/2006
Tour Guide in London?
I am taking a school group to London in June, 2007. I know that all tour guides in Britain have to be licensed. As their teacher, do I need to hire a guide or can I be their guide since I have spent time in London?
Anyone have info on this? I want to make the trip as inexpensive as possible.
Andy Perry <email>
Louisville, KY USA Sun 10/22/2006
Speed Trap
The camera might not have been active. Those cameras don't run 24/7 -- they're switched on at irregular intervals. Also, some signs have a dummy camera, or none at all. You never know what you're going to get.
I had the same experience in Normandy -- sudden speed limit changes, and a camera is right there. At least 3 occasions, I was convinced I was caught, but no ticket or charge ever appeared.
Watch your mail and credit card statements for a charge, but don't worry if one never shows. The rental car company has all your vital information, and they'll find you if there was a ticket.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Sun 10/22/2006
Hotel du Cantal, Paris
Has anyone stayed recently at the Hotel du Cantal in Paris? My faxed and emailed reservation requests are not going through and I wonder if they have gone out of business.
Thanks.
MN USA Sun 10/22/2006
Hotel in Munich
Kathy--we stayed at Pension Seibel in June of 2001 and thoroughly enjoyed it. Our room was very nice, the breakfast was amazing and the staff were charming and so helpful. The location was perfect for us too. We're planning to stay there in 2008. All the contact info is in Rick's Germany book.
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Sun 10/22/2006
Re: Munich Hotel
Stayed at the Hotel Ludwig across from the train station with 20 of my family and friends. Read reviews on tripadvisor.com.
Jeff
NJ USA Sun 10/22/2006
Re: Heathrow and Windsor
If your plane is on time, you should have no trouble catching the 09:00 bus; but it might be wise to book the 10:15 bus to be safe.
Here is a quote from the National Express FAQs:
Our conditions of carriage state that if you miss the coach you are booked on, through no fault of National Express or Eurolines, and you do not cancel your seat before the time of departure (longer on Eurolines services) then the ticket is no longer valid and is not eligible for a refund or amendment.
However, at airports we do try to help as much as we can. Under normal circumstances we will try to accommodate you on a later departure, subject to seats being available. But we are under no obligation to do this.
Our advice when booking is always to book on a service slightly later. Then, if your plane arrives on time or early, and you are in time to catch an earlier coach, we will be happy for you to travel on an earlier departure - subject, always, to seats being available.
Please note that a small amendment fee on domestic bookings may be charged by the agent/office making the amendment at their discretion.
I don't know if luggage storage is available at Windsor. You could send an e-mail via the "Contact us" page at www.windsor.gov.uk and ask.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 10/22/2006
Speed Trap - Caen - but no ticket
When we were in Normandy this summer, my husband was caught in a speed trap in Caen (the speed limit was posted, then dropped drastically and before he realized it and dropped his speed, his picture was taken). We expected to get a ticket in the mail but have not. We have also been keeping an eye on our credit card, thinking the car rental company might just charge us for the ticket. Has anyone dealt with anything like this? After seeing all the posts about tickets and extra fines, I'm starting to become more concerned.
Thanks
Connie <email>
USA Sun 10/22/2006
Munich
Hello Can anyone please recommend any nice affordable accommodation for two couples in Munich for April 2007.Thank you.
Kathy <email>
USA Sun 10/22/2006
Heathrow and Windsor
My family is arriving at Heathrow at 6.25am. We won't be carrying our luggage - it'll be booked on. We are catching a bus straight to Bath. The first direct options are 9am and 10.15am. Can anyone advise on which bus to book on? Also I was thinking of then travelling to London via Windsor - any thoughts on this and will we be able to leave our bags somewhere? Thanks in advance
Robyn <email>
Australia Sat 10/21/2006
Pay the fines!
My husband got a parking ticket in the UK. Figuring "they" wouldn't bother to track him down, he didn't put the 5 pounds in the envelope. A few months later, a very official- looking letter came. The fine had mushroomed with various penalties and interest and exchange rates and was being handled by an American collection agency. I think he ended up paying over 100$ so it wouldn't go on our credit report. Bottom line is that most of us are driving rented cars when in Europe, and they have plenty of information to find you with!
USA Sat 10/21/2006
Travel in Morocco
This link will help you decide on travel plans in Morocco.
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_975.html
Kim
Iowa City, IA USA Sat 10/21/2006
Traffic Infraction:
European intities can and do report unpaid bills to American Bill Collectors. They do have recourse.
USA Sat 10/21/2006
Anybody been to Colmar?
I'm doing my post-trip scrapbooking. I'm having a hard time identifying some of my Colmar photos. Has anybody been to Colmar that would be willing to help me? I would e-mail you the 3 photos in question, and you could respond with the names of the buildings. I've already spent an hour on Google looking for my answers--that strategy worked with my photos of Gdansk last spring. Thanks in advance
Karen <email>
MN USA Sat 10/21/2006
Croatian islands -which ones?
Hi! I'm planning the islands part of our trip for next summer in Croatia. I know I want to go to Hvar. I'll only have 3-4 days for islands. Which ones should I be sure to include/avoid? Which town should we stay in in Hvar? Thanks so much, Cathy
Cathy <email>
Courtenay, B.C. USA Sat 10/21/2006
PAYMENT OF TRAFFIC FINE IN ITALY
The last time I had a traffic fine in Europe, I was notifed after I returned home.
The agency I rented from notified me that they had paid the fine and charged it to my credit card.
I had no choice in the matter. My suggestion is dont try to pay it and see what happens.
USA Sat 10/21/2006
traffic infraction in italy
dont pay it they have no recourse here.
mike
USA Sat 10/21/2006
Paris Boat trips for a group; Musée du Quai Branly
A group of about 10-15 friends from around the world are meeting in Paris and during the first day we thought we would rendezvous for a bateaux-mouche trip... but there seem to be several options of companies and routes, and then what time is best... sunset? after dark?
Can we bring our own champagne and cheese?
Would an "off and on again" version be better and worth the money?
Also, do you have any tips about using time wisely in the new Musée du Quai Branly ?
Your suggestions and experiences would be appreciated!
Mark
Pflugerville, Texas USA Sat 10/21/2006
Instanbul in November; old photos and postcards; hamam architecture experiences
Am travelling to Istanbul the first week in Nov and am wondering how to dress/what to bring.
Also, interested in buying old photos, postcards, prints--any shops to recommend?
Interested in the "real" hamam experience, especially architecture and am thinking we would try several different ones. Will be there 5 days.
Dana
Austin, Tx USA Fri 10/20/2006
Re: England without reservations.
Did the fly drive tour. Stayed at B&B's at farm houses. Flew into London rented a car drove to Scotland and down the coast to London for the return trip home. One of the best vacations we had. What better way to see a country but to drive and stay with the locals. Purchase a guide book on B&B's. You will not regret this adventure.
Jeff
NJ USA Fri 10/20/2006
England to Ireland options
We are considering flying into London and then taking the train across England and Wales, then the ferry to Ireland, in order to see some of the countryside. Has anyone done this? Any pros or cons as oppposed to flying into Dublin directly?
Carol <email>
Mpls, MN USA Fri 10/20/2006
England
To USA~~I wouldn't worry about finding a place to stay in England during Easter. We were in England over Easter and driving around and had no trouble at all finding a place even in a larger town like Salisbury. Have a great trip.
Troy, Ohio USA Fri 10/20/2006
KURT...A CAR IN MORROCO
Most travelers ride the ferry to Morroco and rent a car there.
Ask your rental agency the questions you ask here.
Based on what I have read it is not as safe to drive a car in Morroco as it is in Spain.
Do a google search for “Driving in Morroco” and see that others say about driving there.
USA Fri 10/20/2006
Debbie--ATM's
I used my ATM card all through Italy this summer. It was refused only once, and I went to another machine down the street where it worked fine. I usually took out 360 Euros at a time.
Sue
USA Fri 10/20/2006
ATM's in Italy
You shouldn't have a problem using your ATM card. 95 % of the ATM machines will accept your card. Each machine has different limits as to how much you can withdraw, in addtion to the limit imposed by your own bank, so there isn't a secific amount. Also, even though you are going to be using mostly plastic during your travels, make sure you carry about $200 in cash in case of an emgergency-stored in a money belt.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Fri 10/20/2006
ATM's in Italy
I am planning to use my ATM card in Florence and Venice next year. Although I am taking my Mastercard as a backup, I want to use my ATM card to keep fees down. My card has PLUS on the back of it. Are the 'PLUS' symbols common at ATM's in Italy and what is the daily limit allowed?
Debbie
NZ Thu 10/19/2006
Bill.....Cafes in Paris
There are 1 or more cafes on almost every street everywhere in Paris. The 3rd and 7th arrondissements absolutely do not have a monopoly on cafes :)
Nicky
San Francisco, USA Thu 10/19/2006
England without reservations
I concur with what has already been said; and I'll add that should you get to a place where everything is full, TI offices are very helpful. In our experience, they have listings and will phone around for you. If they can't find anything in their town, they'll call to surrounding towns. I also wouldn't worry about Easter. If you hit the school holiday period, the Brits (as well as most other northern Europeans) will be headings for sunnier places.
USA Thu 10/19/2006
England Reservations
No, you're not crazy. When you are driving, you have the option of B & Bs out of the city center, in the counrtyside or in tiny towns not served by public transit. Also, you have the freedom to go on to the next town, if nothing acceptable is available.
England is a great place to explore by car. Get off the big highways and explore the small country roads in Yorkshire, (I used York as a base,) and wander along the coast (Portsmouth is my personal favorite.)
The only thing I'd be concerned about in April is Easter. I would reserve ahead, or have several options in mind.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Thu 10/19/2006
Itinerary yes, reservations no
Unless you are the sort of traveller who will be disapointed to be shut out of a hotel that is very special, you can travel without advanced reservations in April.
It is useful, I think, to have an itinerary, as in a plan of what you think you will want to do and see, before you leave. You might change this in mid-trip for any number of good reasons, but planning will help you have a better trip. Which I am sure you will!
Adam
Boston, USA Thu 10/19/2006
England Reservations
We are planning a trip to England the first 2 weeks in April. We have already made reservations at a Rick Steves' recommended B&B in London. We are planning on renting a car, once we are done with London, and do not really have a very specific itinerary. As a result we arent sure where we will be and so unable to make reservations. Is this a stupid idea? Should we be making an itinerary and reservations?????
USA Thu 10/19/2006
Re: Russia
Traveled to Russia: Moscow and St Petes. Took an overnight train from Moscow. Great time. It was if we were on the Orient express. Matron on board to take care of our needs. Tour guides from Moscow came with us until new guides met us at the station. It was a wonderful once in a lifetime adventure.
Jeff
NJ USA Thu 10/19/2006
RE: Mary - Athens - George the Taxi Driver
Mary. My husband and I just got back from a trip to Athens and before leaving we contacted George to see if he would pick us up from the airport. He is so honest that he told us that he is more expensive than regualer taxi drivers at the airport because he has to charge us to get to the airport, pick us up, and take us where we are going. Based on this we did not book airport transportation with him. Well, it just so happens that a few days later, after a VERY long and VERY hot day we decide to hail a cab (Note: you are supposed to go to taxi stands in Athens). And guess who picks us up? George! We didn't know it was him at first and just sat in the back seat thinking, "Wow! This guy is so nice and so helpful". I had inquired about a good restaurant near our hotel and he said he would drop us at one very close. When we got to the restaurant he went in and got the owner, introduced us, and said he would be back in an hour to pick us up. At this point I asked him his name...and he said George. We were so tickled. Well, about an hour later, after the most incredible meal, here comes George into the restaurant to get us. He took us back to our hotel and we arranged for him to take us to the airport the next day. The ride to the airport was the most fun ever! It cost a few more euros than a regular cab, but it was worth it. If you decidee to use George tell him his friends from Alabama say hello!
Kelly
AL USA Thu 10/19/2006
Russia trip
My husband and I are interested in a trip to Russia, and perhaps the Baltics. Some tours include a river cruise between Moscow and St. Petersburg, with an optional extension to Helsinki, and maybe Tallinn. Some tours are mainly land tours which include more of the Baltic regions, such as Riga and Vilnius, excluding the small Volga river and canal towns. Travel from Moscow to St. Petersburg is then by train. Which should we do? Do we do the river cruise with the small towns in between, or do we see Riga and Vilnius? We can't find one that does it all. If we do the land tour, what are the roads like? Is it too much on a bus? Or is the river boring? I would appreciate any opinions.
Linda G <email>
Danville, IL USA Thu 10/19/2006
Re: Mary, George the Taxi Driver
While I do not have personal experience, I have heard from a number of people on this board (Look through the archives and on the "Greek" thread) and others that have. All have had positive reviews, he is probably pricey, but legit. However, in my own opinion supported by nothing, given the number of people and reviews, I suspect that there may be a number of "Georges" in the same outfit or at least a few franchises out there, but I admit I may be wrong.
Paul <email>
IA USA Thu 10/19/2006
Re: Magdalena, Airport Transportation
Taxi is one way to get to the Plaka from the airport, much more economical would be one of two ways. First, there is an express bus from the Airport to Syntagma Square for a few Euro, The Plaka is a short walk from there. You can also take the Metro Train, again, directly to Syntagma or one of the other nearby stations.
P <email>
IA USA Thu 10/19/2006
Re: Dave, Island Reservations
Reservations would not be needed, as you get off the Ferry, there will be dozens of people offering rooms. If you want, you can consult a few good guides (Lonely Planet, Let's Go, and Frommers) and pick a few likely places. I would then suggest maybe calling the next lodging the day of your ferry travel. For the islands, one risk is that the ferries will not run due to wind (Happened at least one day on my trip) disrupting your schedule. The reservation you made long ahead may still charge you for the night you are not there. For you, calling ahead that day or the day before may be the best option.
Paul <email>
IA USA Thu 10/19/2006
coping passport information
Last year someone wrote in about making a copy of your passport and told what size to shrink it to on the copier. Was the perfect size to have a laminated extra copy - driver's license too. Thanks.
USA Thu 10/19/2006
Re: Greece Tour - Magdalena
My friend went on this tour, and she just took a cab to the hotel. She said it wasn't far at all, nor that expensive (not sure how much exactly!).
As with all ETBD tours, you'll need to book your own airfare. If you go to Kayak.com, they have the biggest search engine - including all major airlines & travel websites - to check prices for flights.
Good luck!! :)
Aquarius11
Yardley, PA USA Thu 10/19/2006
A car in Morroco
I was thinking of renting a car and touring southern Spain. I'm also planning on visiting Morroco. Can I get a car rented in Spain by ferry to Morroco. Is it safe to drive, park etc?
Kurt <email>
Dallas, TX USA Thu 10/19/2006
May visit to Venice
We are planning on visiting Venice in May. Has anyone opinions as to staying in either an Apartment, B & B, Hotel or Inn ? What about the best location(s) ?
JeanBean <email>
Syracuse, NY USA Thu 10/19/2006
payment of traffic fine in Italy
Can anyone give a link to a website that allows payment of a traffic fine with a credit card? This is in Pisa.
Gary Weybright <email>
Friday Harbor, WA USA Wed 10/18/2006
Greece lodging - reservations needed?
We're planning to travel to some of the Greek Islands next spring (late May - Mid June), probably Mykonos, Naxos, and Santorini, after an ETBD Greece tour.
W're used to traveling high summer season in Europe, and always having reservations for hotels/pensions/etc. By personality we are rather organized, like to be sure of things, and perhaps not too spontaneous.
We would appreciate your thoughts about whether making reservations ahead of time for lodging on these Greek islands is needed or not?
We'll also spend a day or 2 in Athens.
Thanks.
DaveH <email>
San Jose, CA USA Wed 10/18/2006
Help on the Best of Athens & the Heart of Greece Tour.
Hi, my friend and I are thinking about taking the tour to Greece, however how do the tours work? I looked at the itinerary and saw that everyone just meets in the Hotel in Plaka at 6:00pm on Day 1. But my question for anyone who has been on this tour, how far is Plaka from the airport, did you take a shuttle? Also the tour price does not include the airfare,correct? Which company would be the best or least expensive to buy the two way tickets? Thank you so much in advance for any advice!!!
Magdalena <email>
Chicago, IL USA Wed 10/18/2006
Currency Exchange
In ALL of the discussions about currency conversion, everyone passes over the most important point --- WHAT IS THE BEGINNING CONVERSION RATE !!!! Unless you know that you have no idea if it is good deal or not. Adding 1% to a poor exchange rate could be much higher than 3% on a good rate. In my experience local businesses tend to use a very favorable (in their favor) exchange rate and then they add a percentage for the convenience. I would trust my credit card for a favorable rate long before a local hotel.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Wed 10/18/2006
Regarding Hotel Currency Conversions
It all depends what your bank charges you for the conversion on your bank card. Mine charges at the exact rate for that minute/day - so I would have saved money by reading the fine print. However - I do think the hotel should have informed me before presenting me with the receipt. I guess it pays to ask you bank (Visa/Mastercard or whatever) what they charge if anything.
Franny
Bothell, Wa. USA Wed 10/18/2006
AsiaRooms?
Have any experience using AsiaRooms.com for booking hotels? Are they reputable? Please send both neg and pos comments, I'm trying to decide if the rates are too good to be true for London. thanks.
b <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 10/18/2006
Re: Currency/Credit Card
One more thing. Save all credit card receipts. On my trip last year a restaurant charged me twice even though I only ate one meal. (The charges were different. Only one was correct.) When I got my credit card statement, I called customer service. They asked me to send them the correct receipt and then they cancelled the incorrect charge.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 10/18/2006
Re: Currency/Credit Card
Have the business charge you in the local currency. Let your credit card company do the conversion into dollars.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 10/18/2006
Security in Munich
We just returned from 17 days in Germany,Belgium,Holland and Austria.Just a comment on Munich airport security.We arrived early and checked in,went thru security and thought that was it.We didnt go to our gate immediately and when we did 1 hr. before leaving we found that there was another longer line thru identical security that was only for planes leaving for the USA.Some people cut it pretty close.
Jack <email>
Sheboygan, wi USA Wed 10/18/2006
currency/credit card
Please, some one state clearly:
A. Is it better to have the CC charged in the local currency to save money?
B. Is it better to have them use US dollars and not pay the % to change it to US dollars?
I'm not clear from the postings below! Last trip, when offered, I said US dollars...thinking that way I'd know exactly what I was being charged, and I'd save money, since the business did the converstion, not my credit card.
I am not stupid, just confused on this issue.
Thanks RS readers!
USA Wed 10/18/2006
Credit Card vs Cash
Dear Franny, sounds like the hotel did you a favor, most CC charge more than 2.75 conversion fee. Works best for me to pay in local currency than worry about all those unexpected fees that pop up.
USA Wed 10/18/2006
Dynamic Currency Conversion
What the hotel did is called "Dynamic Currency Conversion". According to the websites for Visa and MC, you not only have the right to insist that your bill be given in the local currency, but the hotel was obligated to inform you of that right. Visa/MC or your bank will change the currency for you, but some banks will charge you an additional 2% to change the currency, in which case you won't save much. However, you should call your bank and insist that the DCC be reversed. And, be sure to tell them that you were not informed by the hotel of your right to have the bill in local currency.
Lee
USA Wed 10/18/2006
Paris trip
Thank you Tim & George & others for the helpful transportation info re: CDG to my hotel. Had kind of looked at the options but it helps when experienced travelers give their opinion. Much appreciated!
Sue
USA Wed 10/18/2006
Another Hotel Scam?
We booked a hotel in London on the Internet - got a great room at the Shaftesbury Hotel for 62 pounds. It was right off the Tube at Earls Court - very convenient. When it came time to check out I was charged in dollars rather than in pounds - which I thought was rather interesting. Later on I read the teeny,teeny print on the bottom of the receipt which stated that they had charged me additional 2.75% for this. So make sure you get your credit card charged in pounds.
Franny
Bothell, Wa. USA Wed 10/18/2006
Athens Tour Guide: George The Taxi Driver
Does anyone have experience with using “George The Taxi Driver” in Athens? I found out about him doing while searching for info on Greece. His services look “legit” - would appreciate any feedback. Thanks!
Mary <email>
Lancaster, CA USA Wed 10/18/2006
Stonehenge Tour
We used this tour company in London for a most outstanding trip to Stonehenge (got to go inside!). The driver/guide was terrific. We did the Stonehenge/Salisbury half-day. They had a wide variety of places lengths, etc!
http://www.astraltravels.co.uk/
Mary <email>
Lancaster, CA USA Wed 10/18/2006
TSA Locks
A little late responding but my experiences with TSA and their "approved" locks is not good. I have flown internationally from Washington Dulles several times - some times the lock arrives and sometimes not. Once I stayed a while watching the TSA person (not a very busy time period) go through my luggage with a TSA approved lock. He looked at me and asked if it was my luggage. After I confirmed it was he asked if I had the key and could I unlock it. I agreed to but said I thought he had a key that would open all TSA locks. He said there are a group of keys and he didn't have them - they were downstairs (?). So my guess is that sometimes at some airports TSA will go through the trouble of unlocking and relocking your luggage. Sometimes they can't be bothered and will cut the lock and throw it away. You get the government you pay for.
Woody
USA Wed 10/18/2006
Sicily
Having spent two weeks a few years ago touring the northern two-thirds of Italy, my wife and I are planning a two-week trip next fall to Sicily and the southern part of Italy. Rick's Italy 2007 book ignores Sicily, but there is some information on his site, and he does run tours of Sicily and southern Italy.
We would appreciate hearing directly by email from RS followers who have traveled to Sicily, particularly regarding what guide books they used, their impressions and experiences, and suggestions for spending 5-7 days there.
Ron <email>
DeWitt, MI USA Wed 10/18/2006
To Kate
This is the bag I use for a daypack/purse, in addition to my North Face backpack (which I can use to store my daypack when traveling from place to place). It says it's "thiefproof" (of course, NOTHING is!), but it does have some deterrents - steel cables along the straps to keep someone from cutting them & hooks that buckle the zippers together.
Overall, it's been a great purchase!!
http://www.travelsmith.com/jump.jsp?itemID=38&itemType=PRODUCT&path=1%2C2%2C292%2C327&iProductID=38&sortBy=0
Aquarius11
Yardley, PA USA Wed 10/18/2006
Re: Paris Trip
If you take the Air France bus, it's 1.5 kilometers from Charles de Gaulle Etoile (Arc de Triomphe) to your hotel. If you're packing light, it's certainly walkable. Otherwise you'll probably want to take a taxi.
Alternatively, take the RER B to Chatelet Les Halles, the RER A to Charles de Gaulle Etoile, and Metro line 6 to Boissiere. That will get you to within two blocks of your hotel. The cost is E8.10 and includes all transfers.
Visit www.ratp.fr to download and print a Metro/RER map for central Paris and a RER map that shows service to outlying zones, including CDG.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 10/17/2006
CAR RENTAL IN EUROPE
You rent a large car in Europe only once.....then you know better and rent a smaller model to navigate the narrow streets and tiny parking spaces.
Only caution is to get one large enough to accommodate your luggage. And make it a four door so you can easily throw some luggage onto the back seat.
USA Tue 10/17/2006
SUE...PARIS TRIP
I recommend the Seine River cruise with dinner.
It is a unique way to celebrate a family member’s birthday or anniversary.
Takes only an hour or 90 minutes.
USA Tue 10/17/2006
Re: Best & Worst Airlines
MH- Here is the website you requested
http://www.airlinequality.com/index.htm
R
USA Tue 10/17/2006
Sue - Paris visit
I think you can cover lots of interesting Paris sites in three days. Plan carefully being aware of the various staggered days that the museums are closed.
You can easily do the Seine cruise since a great time to do it is after dark when all the buildings are lit up. It is really quite magical. I would make it a priority. Most people feel that the cruise which doesn't include the dinner is the best bet.
I'm not expert at this but I think your best (read easiest) transport from CDG is the Air France Shuttle - line #2. It runs from 5:45AM to 11PM. It will get you to the Arc de Triomphe and from there you can walk. Cost is 20euros roundtrip. You can also take the RER-B and switch to the RER-A and then the metro but I don't think you'll want to do this after a long flight. Your hotel will be able to provide more details on exactly how to proceed but I would arrive with a good pocket map of the city including the public transportation lines. Lonely Planet used to have a good one. Rick's store may have it or possibly Amazon. Buy Ricks guide while you are there and any electrical adapters that you will need.
Have a great trip.
George
PA USA Tue 10/17/2006
Paris trip
I am going to be in Paris for 3 days in March. Will most sites including a Seine River cruise be doable? Also, I am staying at the Etoile Trocadero Hotel at 21 Rue Saint Didier. What are my best transportation options from CDG airport to my hotel? Help appreciated!
Sue
OH USA Tue 10/17/2006
Car Rentals
Another thing I wanted to mention....we rented a car for 25 days from Europcar. Everything was fine, but to tell you the truth, I wish we had rented a smaller car! Our travel agent likes to travel in style, so we had a Passat station wagon--nice and roomy, but a bit of a liability in almost any town. Sort of like a Chevy Suburban in an American parking lot, the rear end stuck out of every parking space. I swore next time we were getting a Smart car.....well, maybe not QUITE that small, but I would encourage you to go smaller rather than larger, and think you'll be glad you did. Just my 2 cents'
Beth
FL USA Tue 10/17/2006
Budget for Taxis
We just returned from a month in Europe and one tip I would mention: Unless you are a really fit walker, the uneven streets/paths found in many towns and cities really wear your feet and legs out. We budgeted specifically for taxis and boy, was it money well spent. After a long day of walking and taking in the sights--what a luxury to take a cab back to the hotel. For 10 euros or whatever, you got a little rest, a chance to look out the window and relax, and got your second wind. If you're not the thrill-seeking type and Roman cab drivers cut things just a little close for your taste, close your eyes, lean your head back, and remember--if they hit something they'll be out of work! Personally, I think of it as a Disney E ticket and enjoy the heck out of it.....
Beth
FL USA Tue 10/17/2006
Love my Overland Donner Bag
After some investigation I decided on an Overland Donner Bag & haven't been sorry. They're about $50. Look on the internet and compare the different weights. Also, think about what you want to put in your bag. This took me on 2 trips abroad and I was able to carry a water bottle as well as my digital camera.
Karen <email>
MN USA Tue 10/17/2006
Language Greeting cheat sheet
This is a great handy greeting cheat sheet
http://budgettravelonline.com/bt-srv/images/0610_walletcard.pdf
USA Tue 10/17/2006
Labels and Security
Don't count on the security officers using any intelligences. Last week my wife went through the security at Salt Lake City airport will her qt bag but security took her stick deodorant BECAUSE it look like it was more than 3 oz even through it was clearly marked on the label as 2.7 oz. Pointing out the label made no difference. It was too big.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Tue 10/17/2006
Paris museum tickets
I would like to buy tickets for museums in Paris. Do I have to buy them at the individual museums or can I buy them at other places? I am NOT talking about the Paris Museum Pass. Thanks, Su
Su
USA Tue 10/17/2006
Red Oxx Bag
I'm looking for a solid travel shoulder bag. Every online search yields the result for the Gator bag by Red Oxx. Does anyone know anything about this bag, used it for traveling? It looks solid and sturdy but perhaps a bit heavy. Any ideas?
Kate
Princeton, NJ USA Tue 10/17/2006
Amsterdam layover
A 7 hour layover is plenty of time to visit Amsterdam. We did it once with a five hour layover and could have spent more time in Amsterdam than we did.
Doberry
MS USA Tue 10/17/2006
Nozin
As long as any liquid is 3oz or less, you are OK to put in your zip lock bag.
I took eye drops last week, no issue - the bottle was 3oz.
USA Tue 10/17/2006
carry on luggage
Has anyone had a problem taking Nozin travel pack in their carryon quart size bag. I'm leaving tomorrow and want to try this product and if it works I don't want to have to leave it behind.
Pam <email>
Nevada City, Ca USA Tue 10/17/2006
7 hours to kill in the Amsterdam airport
With a 7 hour layover, you DO have time to take look around Amsterdam. The train from Schiphol to Amsterdam takes about 20 minutes with departures every 15 minutes or so. Buy Rick's Amsterdam guidebook, so you can pick which attractions appeal to you the most and use your time effectively. Alternatively, you could go Harleem instead of Amsterdam, its a small relaxing city with lots of great attractions. You can get there via bus directly from the Airport, about 15 minutes away.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Tue 10/17/2006
7 hours to kill in the Amsterdam airport.
It sounded good at the time? To save a few bucks we have a seven hour layover in Amsterdam before our flight to Venice. Is it possible to leave the airport to see a few sites before the flight? Our travel agent did not think it was a good idea, but would love to see Holland don't know when we ever would be back.
L. Ackerman
Bolingbrook, IL USA Tue 10/17/2006
Winter in Cinque Terre
Five female friends want to visit Cinque Terre around New Years Eve/new Years Day. Any thoughts as to where to stay without having to lug too much luggage uphill?
Mary
Mary <email>
Chicago, IL USA Mon 10/16/2006
traffic infractions in Italy
Gary - we got our ticket for messing up on a tool booth outside of Lucca 13 months after our trip! We also could not figure out how to pay the toll or got in the wrong lane - who knows. The fine was something like 15 euros, but it cost 55USD to have the funds wired! Our letter (Avis car rental must have given us up)gave the option to log onto a website and pay the fine with a credit card. That didn't seem so safe so I just have our bank wire the funds. Figured for under $100 we wouldn't get hung up next time we want to rent a car - or leave the country. We look forward to more traffic adventures in Italia in June.
Ann Marie
Seattle, USA Mon 10/16/2006
traffic infractions in Italy
Gary - we got our ticket for messing up on a tool booth outside of Lucca 13 months after our trip! We also could not figure out how to pay the toll or got in the wrong lane - who knows. The fine was something like 15 euros, but it cost 55USD to have the funds wired! Our letter (Avis car rental must have given us up)gave the option to log onto a website and pay the fine with a credit card. That didn't seem so safe so I just have our bank wire the funds. Figured for under $100 we wouldn't get hung up next time we want to rent a car - or leave the country. We look forward to more traffic adventures in Italia in June.
Ann Marie
Seattle, USA Mon 10/16/2006
Cinque Terre
My husband and I will be travelling to Italy-Cinque Terre the week of January 1-6, 2007. Is it feasible to think we can go there at that time of year? Will we be able to get down into the villages? Where is the best (and most reasonable) place to stay? Any suggestions will be well regarded.
Susan Engen <email>
Spring Grove, MN USA Mon 10/16/2006
Albergo Olivedo
Having stayed at the Albergo Olivedo in Varenna, I don't doubt the veracity of CA's account. Not everybody could get along with Laura, the owner. However, I must add that staying there was one of my all time best hotel experiences. Maybe "Minnesota nice"--which is a smiling, calm demeanor no matter what you're thinking--worked for me. My parents and I had wonderful accomodations at the villa next door, and our evening meals in front of the hotel, watching the sunsets, were unforgettable.
Karen <email>
MN USA Mon 10/16/2006
Traffic infraction in Italy
5 months after a trip of a lifetime in Italy a notice of a traffic infraction from the municipal police in Pisa arrived in our mailbox. We did have an incident on the autostrada, got in the wrong lane at a toll booth (the commuter pass holders lane) and were not able to pay the toll, and as the gate lifted up to let us out a photo was taken of the rental car. I pulled over, got out, but none of the tollbooths had operators, no one in sight but us guilty tourists. I am assuming this is what the notice we received is regarding, however, it describes the incident as "circulating in restricted traffic zone without authorisation".
Has anyone had a similar experience? I have 60 days to appeal or the fine doubles, should I just pay the fine and write it off as additional travel expenses?
Anyway, the tip I can give is be very careful what lane you select at the toll booths in Italy.
Gary Weybright <email>
Friday Harbor, WA USA Mon 10/16/2006
Eurostar
I had a great time on my ride from Paris to London a few years ago. However, there was about an hour's delay just before we went into the tunnel... something about a train (a few ahead of us) was stuck! Don't know what they did to unstick it, but I was glad we were in the sunshine during the delay.
So, if your time is limited, an hour's delay on a day trip can be critical. And if you're at all apprehensive about travelling under the channel, keep this in mind.
Sue
Philadelphia, PA USA Mon 10/16/2006
Vaduz
One more note/suggestion: As for the hotel restaurant in the middle of town that serves their very famous "Chicken and French Fries" - its a house specialty and Id hightly recommend it (no KFC here!) Its on the second floor overlooking the main street below the castle. I wish I could remember the name - but everyone knows it. The restaurant is said to be one of the best in Europe!
Tom
Newport Beach, CA USA Mon 10/16/2006
LUGGAGE STORAGE IN VADUZ
Bernard and Priscilla....Because Vaduz is very small locating a luggage storage is difficult.
Try the hotel first and then try the hostel.
You will have to take the bus to get to Vaduz; so you might try the bus station, but as I remember it that station is very small.
DALLAS, TX USA Mon 10/16/2006
Croatia
You should allow at least one full day to hike the Lakes. We only hiked 1/3 of the park but thought they were amazing. We regretted not planning longer stay. There was at least one hotel next to the park, but not much else that I saw outside of the park area.
I assume you are driving in Croatia, if not think about it, island hopping is fairly easy. We went to Rab Island and really enjoyed it. Just make sure to research the ferry points since they are scattered. they do run very regular though.
Finally, the must stay in the north is Rovinj. We absolutely loved it there. Its a great place to relax for a day or two. There is a great wine bar on the south facing side of the main peninsula where you can sit on an rock outcropping and enjoy your bottle of wine.
Enjoy Croatia, its wonderful. I am very jealous.
David
Wurzburg, DE Mon 10/16/2006
Croatia
Could anyone help me with the following for next summer:
1. a room in Split (Peristil too expensive)
2. a room near Plitvice National Park and how long should we stay there.
3. Any tips on island hopping our way from Dubrovnik to Split and wanting to stay at an island or two en route.
4. Must stays from Split to the Slovenian border
Thanks so much!
Cathy <email>
Courtenay, B.C. Canada Sun 10/15/2006
Venice in December
Amy, If Germany is not too cold for you in December then Venice should be ok for you. It is cold near the water so you would want to dress warm. Many people prefer it off season because it isn't so full of other tourists. I would say go!
USA Sun 10/15/2006
Luggage storage in Vaduz
Hi,
We intend to make a day visit to Vaduz while on our way to Zurich. We will like to get advice on luggage storage in Vaduz.
Appreciate your help.
Thanks,
Bernard & Priscilla
Bernard & Priscilla
Singapore, USA Sun 10/15/2006
kids and day trip paris
The Eurostar also has trains that go directly to Cinderalla's castle at Disneyland Paris. This might be more manageble with younger children.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 10/15/2006
Day trip to Paris using Eurostar
Having experienced Eurostar just two weeks ago, here's what I would say. It takes three hours from Waterloo station in London to Gar Nord in Paris.. The trip under the channel takes approximately twenty minutes. It is a great ride.. As for a day trip, it's possible I suppose, providing you take an early train out of London and then take a late train returning, however, there is no way that your going to see all the sights of Paris in your time available. If you just spending the day there, then choose your sights carefully prior to going, then use the Paris Metro to get from 'A' to 'B' so to speak, that would be the most efficient way to move around the city. Seems a shame you couldn't spend more time there.
Colin
Seattle, USA Sun 10/15/2006
Re: Blackout Dates
I'm not concerned with getting on the flight, just which actual date(s) count as blacked out - the date you fly and/or the date you arrive.
We have Silver status with US Air - I've already called them to confirm that there's upgrade availability on the flights we're thinking of taking.
Aquarius11
Yardley, PA USA Sun 10/15/2006
kids and day trip
Rick's London guidebook has a whole chapter dedicated to doing the Paris daytrip. But IMO with a small child it's not worth the trouble. You probobly won't be able to see half the sites Rick lists.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 10/15/2006
kids and day trip
I've been reading all the postings re Eurostar travel from London to Paris. Has anyone ever done a day trip like this w/ small children? We're bringing our 4 y/o with us, and although I welcome the idea, I'm a bit hesitant as well. I understand we may end up not seeing all the sights. Any thoughts?
Mom
USA Sun 10/15/2006
how long in the chunnel?
I don't know how many miles it is, but the journey underneath the english channel is about 20 minutes. As Rick says, those 20 minutes are a "non-event".
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 10/15/2006
how long in the chunnel?
Now that it has been recommended to travel from the UK to France via Eurostar train I now have another question, how long is the train travel when underground in the chunnel itself? The reason I ask is traveling in a tunnel under a large body of water is not my favorite way of traveling (The exception is when I take a train to and from NYC , it's ony under the Hudson for few minutes , I assume the chunnel is longer then a few minutes.)
ted <email>
washington, dc USA Sun 10/15/2006
Do NOT stay at Albergo Olivedo in Varenna
I had booked a room with a "great lake view" 3 months ago in Varenna. When I arrived the owner, Laura, said she had a room with a "little view". The "view" was from the attic from a 4 inch windo on the ground. One would have to lay down on the floor and stick ones head out the window to catch a glimpse of the lake.
When we approaced her with her email confirmation she became confrontational and told us we had 30 minutes to find another place or we would be charged for the room. Her attitude was horrendoubs. We found a lovely place to stay with a lake front view for 45 euros less a night than Olivedo. I would recommend Villa Cipressi anyday over Ricks listing of Albergo Olivedo. Save your money and a headache do NOT stay at Olivedo.
CA USA Sun 10/15/2006
800 number
OOOps. forgot to include the US phone number: 800-441-9413 Monday thru Friday hours EST 9-5pm they are in Ann Arbor Michigan. BETS
GWEN
NC USA Sun 10/15/2006
re: don't give up
I agree - don't give up. On the other hand, be realistic. Unless you fly a lot and have "elite" status at your airline, they are not going to waive or bend any rules for you. Be aware that an awful lot of people are sitting on bazillions of "miles" that they would love to use, and the airlines are loathe to give up any more "free" seats than they absolutely have to - so there's a lot of competition for the tiny number of seats that actually do become available. That said, the previous poster is correct in suggesting you call the airline rather than rely on their websites, which are shockingly bad at showing what's really available. Call and ask. If you don't get a cooperative/helpful agent, thank them and call back later and try another person - it can make a big difference.
Hope that helps.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Sun 10/15/2006
TRAIN & EUROSTAR TRAVEL
DO NOT BOOK ANY TRAIN TRAVEL UNTIL YOU CONTACT www.budgeteuropetravel.com. We struggled with rail schedules, eurostar pricing & SEATING, discounts, Britpasses, etc. THEY can do it all - and are SOOOO customer friendly. Ask for Byron. Three staff members travel extensively by rail in Europe & UK. they have access to the actual rail and ferry schedules and tickets! the whole staff were so helpful. We were totally frustrated and fell on the website. We are now booked all ove UK and France - seats and all with great % dicounting! Happy planning!
GWEN
NC USA Sun 10/15/2006
dont give up
FYI if you cant get a leg of award travel call airline sometimes they will pull strings dont give up with out a call( told this by airline so computer is great but not final authority
John Brangwin <email>
Bellevue, Wa USA Sun 10/15/2006
Venice in Winter
Venice in winter can be cold! We were there after Xmas one year, and it actually snowed a bit. The gondoliers were all shut down . . . probably gone off to some place warm. That being said, however, we enjoyed the sights without hordes of other tourists. For us it was the first trip to Italy, and we didn't know when we would be back. If you think you'll have another opportunity soon, I'd say go at another time of year. If not, prepare for cold weather and you can have a very good time in December.
USA Sun 10/15/2006
Cafes in Paris
We just picked up the Rick Steves planning map of France and the flip side appears to contain a very good map of central Paris. We plan to use this map as our guide for our trip next year. The city map contains Sights, Hotels, and Restaurants, Cafes & Bars as points of interest and the Cafe section would lead one to believe that the 7th and 3rd districts hold the monopoly on Cafes etc. Surely there are ample others in the other areas that are not marked?
Bill W
Courtenay, B.C. Canada Sun 10/15/2006
re:
The term "blackout dates: is largely meaningless, and is mostly used by a certain credit card company as a scam to lure in the rubes to their "mileage card" programs.
"Blackout dates" are probably not going to keep you off a flight to where you want to go. What *will* keep you off flights is the lack of availability of frequent flyer seats - THAT'S the limiting factor. Claims of "no blackout dates!" may be technically true, but is very deceptive. Bottom line: fuggedaboud "blackout dates" - the trick is to find a flight that actually has seats available for award travel. As someone who has traveled extensively on award seats, I can assure you this is the tough part.
Your best chances are if you try to nail the seats about 11 months in advance, and if you can be flexible in your travel days. Good luck - it's not easy to get seats on the days you want.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Sun 10/15/2006
Best and Worst Airlines (International Travel)
Does anyone know of a website that gives a rundown of all the airlines and lists various complaints and or compliments?
I thought I saw such a sight listed as a link on this sight, but I can't seem to find it now.
Thanks!
MH <email>
USA Sun 10/15/2006
Re: UK to Paris
For Ted: I recommend Eurostar if you're travelling from London to Paris. It beat any airfares we found, and eliminates all the travel to Heathrow/CDG.
Annie
Putney, VT USA Sun 10/15/2006
Re: Blackout Dates
Thx, I agree. Just wondering what everyone else has experienced...
BTW, US Air only has a bus/envoy class to Europe, so that's what we'll be flying!
Aquarius11
Yardley, PA USA Sun 10/15/2006
Question About Blackout Dates!
Aquarius, don't rely on anyone on this board for an absolute answer. Ask that question DIRECTLY to USAir. In my experience it is the day you board not when you land. Also, IMO don't upgrade beyond business class -- it is not worth the difference.
Frank P. <email>
Centennail, CO USA Sun 10/15/2006
Germany in Christmas add Venice to the end?
We are planning a trip to Germany starting December 14th in Frankfurt to Hameln (my husband lived there as a child) to Nuremburg/Muncih and then to Salzburg for Christmas. We are trying to decide if we should tack on some extra days and go to Venice or come home. We are concerned about the weather & if we will be exhausted at this time (my husband will be in Frankfurt 2 weeks before me for business). Any suggestions tips, weather advise, would be appreciated.
Amy <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Sun 10/15/2006
Question About Blackout Dates!
We're flying to Europe next summer, trying to avoid US Airways' blackout dates to upgrade to 1st class.
So my question is which day(s) count as blackout dates - the day you fly out and/or the day you arrive? Anyone know? Thx!
Aquarius11
Yardley, PA USA Sun 10/15/2006
uk to france travel
Which is more easier and inexpensive when traveling to France from the UK? Discount airline? Eurostar train? One of the ferry services ?
ted <email>
washington, dc USA Sat 10/14/2006
For Carly
Besides Rick Steves, for younger people traveling the "Let's Go" series is very useful, with more info on hostels, etc. You can also check out the Hosteling International website- lots of info there. Also, especially when traveling cheap, make sure to check TripAdvisor to look for any reviews of the hotel/hostel you are considering (HI has those, too). Lastly, I've always thought the Lonely Planet books make a useful supplement to the RS materials. Happy travels! (p.s.- reading through the archives of the packing light part of this message board will also help as it gets closer to your departure and you start to think about packing)
USA Sat 10/14/2006
Tour of Umbria
We would like an escorted tour from Florence through umbria at the end October. I remember a tour guide named Roberto Becchio in Sienna. Does anyone have contact information or a recommendation for a tour?
Nathan
Reno, NV USA Sat 10/14/2006
paris hotel
mister bed in paris 45 euro search in google
USA Sat 10/14/2006
joe
recommended pension in salzburg for as little as 27 euro a nite. www.pension-elisabeth.at I have stayed at this little gem 3 times it cant be beat, but please book in advance.
USA Sat 10/14/2006
eurail pass : first class
when using a eurail pass in first class it allows you to sit in a seat or compartment. but if it states business first class you will have to pay a supplement of 15 euros. so be aware of this before getting on the train.
joe
toronto, USA Sat 10/14/2006
Re: Train from Paris to Bayeux
You cannot take a TGV from Paris to Bayeux. (FYI, all TGV seats are reserved.)
Your choices are either a Corail train from Paris to Caen and a regional train from Caen to Bayeux or a direct Corail train from Paris to Bayeux. See www.bahn.de for the timetables.
Reservations are recommended but not required on Corail trains. Reservations are not possible on regional trains.
If you buy tickets when you get to Paris, you'll pay E31.20 (2nd class). If you book online up to 90 days in advance at sncf.com, you may be able to get PREM'S (discount) tickets for as low as E15.00 for the direct train and E20.40 for the Corail-regional train connection. Booking PREM'S can be complicated. Send me an e-mail if you'd like more information.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 10/14/2006
travel planning
We ordered our travel planning books on "half.com" (associated with ebay) With postage, they came in at about 60% of the full price. We ordered RS Ireland, Frommers Ireland, Frommers Ireland on $95 a day, (both Frommers not necessary) and Frommers Ireland's best loved driving tours. We didn't get "Lonely Planet" but saw several tourists using it, and asked for thier opinion. Most recommmended it. Of course the RS book was the most valuable for the sight seeing part of the trip, and didn't utilize it for food or lodging, as we went during the shoulder season and were able to pick and choose as we went. If I were to go during high season, it would be advised to use the lodging section to book ahead, so you would be assured of good facilities. Of course, this web sight was utilized extensively in our planning, and found 99% of the advice accurate, and we were grateful to all who contributed.
Dan
WA USA Sat 10/14/2006
re: return car @ Rothenburg
I rented a car in Rothenburg in '04. There are several car dealerships. I don't know how many car rental agencys there are, but I bet there are a few.
Tom <email>
Sacramento, Ca USA Sat 10/14/2006
Train from Paris to Bayeux
My husband and I are going to Paris for the first time in November (19-26). We want to see the landing beaches and museums at Normandy and we've decided to take a train to Bayeux instead of renting a car. I have several questions about train travel though, and thought this would be a good place to start. I speak a little French, but struggle to understand a fast-speaking native. First, I am inclined to purchase the tickets once we arrive, perhaps a day before or the day of our train travel--any benefit to buying them on-line in advance? (I've read some postings that suggest this can be confusing/risky.) Second, will we find taxi drivers at the Bayeux station willing to give us a "tour" or should we make arrangements with a tour company? (On other trips, we've reserved excursions through tour companies, only to find upon arrival that there are plenty of knowledgeable locals willing to spend hours dirving/showing you around.) Third, can you request reserved seats on the TGV trains? (I've read some postings about having to rush to grab a seat and/or sitting in smoking cars if you don't have a reserved seat.) Also, I think this is a 2-3 hour trip, are there restrooms on some or all cars? Finally, any general tips for train travel in France is much appreciated.
SKB
SKB
Jersey City, NJ USA Sat 10/14/2006
re: return car @ Rothenburg
I was in Rothenburg recently and while I didn't pick up or drop off a rental car there, I can tell you that it is a major tourist magnet, not a small town by any stretch, and I would be completely shocked if most of the major auto rental companies didn't have a presence there.
You should check with the agency you are renting from.
More importantly, you should find out if there will be a major increase in cost if you drop the car there (or anywhere - most places won't charge you anything extra if you pick up the car in one city and drop it off in another city in the same country, but if you want to drop it off in another country, be prepared for a big jump in price).
Hope that helps.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Sat 10/14/2006
Eating near Victoria Station
We ate at another Ask! that was on Victoria St. right across from the Victoria Station -- this was on my RS City Tour of London, so they do accomodate groups. Very good, nice atmosphere.
Sue
Philadelphia, PA USA Sat 10/14/2006
Eating in London
I love to eat in the crypt at St. Martin in the Fields Church in Trafalgar Square.(Embankment Underground). Cafeteria style well cooked meals cost 7 pounds. Plus a glass of wine for three pounds - life doesn't get any better....lol It closes at 8.0 p.m. but I would get there much earlier for best choices.
Franny
Seattle, Wa USA Sat 10/14/2006
Re: 1st Time Traveler
First, go to the Travel Tips section on this Web site. Read some of the articles that cover subjects about which you'd like more information. The articles are summaries of what you'll find in Rick's book _Europe Through the Back Door_. If you like what you've read, then buy the book. It's a great resource for basic planning and will help you find lots of other planning resources.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 10/14/2006
Hire car rothenburg
does anyone know if you can return a rental car in Rothenburg. We will be catching a train from there to Lake Como. Also we are trying to decide between Rhine area or Prague and surrounds for four days. Your opinions will be very much appreciated.
Kathy <email>
USA Sat 10/14/2006
Hire car rothenburg
does anyone know if you can return a rental car in Rothenburg. We will be catching a train from there to Lake Como. Also we are trying to decide between Rhine area or Prague and surrounds. Any opinions will be very much appreciated.
Kathy <email>
USA Sat 10/14/2006
1st Time Traveler
I'm really excited about backpacking across Europe next spring. This will be my first time ever leaving the US and the first time I will be traveling anywhere alone. I'm not sure how/where to start planning. Books? Travel channels? Can you guys give me some advice? Thanks in advance.
Carly
LA, CA USA Sat 10/14/2006
Hotel Milan Malpense Airport
We are taking off from Milan Malpense airport at 9:00 AM and would like to find either a hotel with a driver at 6:00AM in Milan or a hotel close to airport. Any suggestions?
Thank you, RAC
RAC <email>
Seattle, WA USA Fri 10/13/2006
Your Welcome, Steve
We wish you a happy honeymoon! I couldn't think of a better place to travel to for that event. We enjoyed our self-guided trip in Ireland (With the RS blue bible) and every city or site that Rick recommended, was right on. Our favorite city was Kenmare. It was the CLEANEST in all Ireland. We found a tremendous amount of garbage on the corner west of the TI in Kinsale. Otherwise, Ireland lived up to all the expectation we have read about on this sight in the 6 months prior to our trip. Bon Voyage!
Dan
WA USA Fri 10/13/2006
Cheap place to eat; London
There is an Italian Restaurant about 2 blocks from the Paddington Station, on Spring Street, accross from the Edwards Hotel. The name of the restaurant is: "Ask". Four of us dined from the regular evening menu for 43 #'s total, and that included 4 Italian beers. Another good evening meal was at the Pub on the Corner of Spring street 1/2 block west of the Paddington Underground. It was called "Pride of Paddington Pub" Inside and outside seating. We all had Fish and Chips and 1 beer each. It cost 43.50 #'s for 4. We had heard that restaurants in London were very expensive, averaging 100.00 US dollars for 2 people for an evening meal. We didn't spend that in the Paddington area, and ate well! I don't know how close that is to Victoria, but the information may help others.
Dan
WA USA Fri 10/13/2006
Re: Robin- Germany
Depending on where exsctly he is, there are so many options for fun weekend trips, both in and out of Germany. If he is based in or near Berlin, Prague is an easy and fun destination- just 5 hours by train from Berlin. The nice part is that as beautiful as Prague is, many of the main sites can be seen over the course of 1 weekend. Within Germany, depending on how much time he has to travel by train, Baden-Baden in the black forest region in the southwest part of the country makes for a great long-weekend destination. Highlite of that weekend would be time spent in the Friedrishbad (sp!)- the Roman-Irish baths, where "to do" the baths is a several hour spa ritual consisting of about 14 "steps"- diff, stages in the spa process- UBER relaxing! Another fun destination, although all the way in the deep south of the county, would be Bavaria, where he could stay in Fussen or Garmish-Partinkirchen and use that as a base for exploring Neuschwanstein, the Zuspizte (highest peak in Germany) and the surrounding country side. Lastly, depending on exactly where he is in N. Germany, Coppenhagen is a great weekend destination- beautiful and CLEAN city and very wasy to just walk everywhere- also VERY nice, friendly people. Hope some of these tips help your brother's planning.
Lawrence <email>
NY USA Fri 10/13/2006
Thank You to everyone on this post
Thanks Dan. That's exactly the info I was looking for. You visited Newgrange around the same time of year we will be there...so you've given me hope. Also thank you to all the others who chimed in on the Newgrange question. I think we will take our chances and forgo the bus tour out of Dublin (isn't doing it on your own what travel is all about?). And a general thank you to everyone on this post. Over the last 8-9 months I have visited this site religiously, have asked many questions and have recieved much good advice. The clock has reached its final hour...I will be married very soon and will leave for Europe immediatly. Thanks to all of you, my honeymoon will be incredible. One final request...Will all of you raise a glass of wine and toast all of the travellers in this world...May we never be delayed at the airport, have our bags stolen, or or worse. May the sun always shine and the wine always flow!
Thanks Again!!!
Steve
Sonoma County, CA USA Fri 10/13/2006
Working in the EU
I was planning to backpack around Europe for about four months, but since I've been over here I have heard that US citizens are only allowed to stay in the EU for 90 days. I've also heard that you can simply leave for a day (ie go to Morocco, etc) and then return. I have also decided I would like to stay longer and work - I have met a number of Americans who have gotten jobs "under the table" and from what I've read online it's next to impossible to get a proper work visa in the EU. I've done a number of internet searches and can't seem to find reliable answers to my questions...can anyone please help? Thanks in advance.
Lisa <email>
Durango, CO USA Fri 10/13/2006
Robin-brother in Germany
What does he like to do? Just going someplace for the sake of going? Or would he like to hike, take in a museum, view ancient sites, parasail, bike?
Help us out, and we'll offer suggestions!
USA Fri 10/13/2006
Where to go
My brother is in Northern Germany for a few months. he has weekend trips planned the whole time he is there. He has one open weekend and trying to figure out where to go (solo). One option is Istanbul where we do have some friends. Any advise? He's also considering amsterdam, france, switzerland ... really hard to decide!
Robin
Portsmouth, NH USA Fri 10/13/2006
heathrow connect
www.heathrowconnect.com
Heathrow Connect runs from the airport to paddington with 5 stops in between. It caters mostly to airport workers who live in suburbs, but obviously anyone can use it.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Fri 10/13/2006
Heathrow
I'm familiar with the Heathrow Express and also how to use the tube to get to downtown London, but I'm not acquainted with the Heathrow "Connect". Dan, would you please give me more details on the Connect. Does it depart from each terminal? Where does it go in downtown London? Any more info? Email address below.
Lisa <email>
West Memphis, AR USA Fri 10/13/2006
Newgrange
Newgrange was the last major stop at the end of our 11 day Ireland Vacation. We drove to the visitors center on Sunday Oct 8, arriving about noon. We were advised to try to get there as early as possible to get a slot to get in. We were met at the door by a lady who wanted to know if we wanted to see just Newgrange, finishing about 2PM or to take in the additional sight adding 2 more hours to the tour. We elected to just do Newgrange. She sold us a ticket and placed a colored coded sticker on our jacket with 12:45 printed on it. We met our shuttle bus at 12:40 on the north side of the visitors center, and they took us out to the sight. Once there, we saw a sign that stated that ALL visitors had to go thru the Visitors Center, to enter Newgrange. There were about 25 people color coded by stickers that took the tour, 1 group inside, and the other othside with enough time to walk all the way around. The 1st group of 25 came out, and our group went in. ....rather low narrow passage, and crowded in the inner room... some may get claustophobic in this situation. It was WAY worth it, being one of the top 3 sights we visited in Ireland. We found out that if you went later in the day, (mid-afternoon or later) that time of year, you may not get in, as they can only handle a certain number of people on any given day.
Dan
WA USA Thu 10/12/2006
Heathrow
Just returned from a trip to London, and Ireland. We traveled by tube from Heathrow to Paddington, changing once at Earls Court...not expensive. But my parents, in their upper 70's, struggled with their luggage during the change. We were unfamiliar with the tube system, and it took a while to get our bearings at Earls Court. Since we had no time deadlines, it worked out ok. However on the return to Heathrow to catch our early morning flight to Dublin, we elected to take the "Heathrow Connect", I belive for about 12.50# It only took about 30 minutes,vrs over an hour for the tube, and the "Heathrow Express" would have been a little faster, but more expensive. Was a much more comfortable ride for my parents. No time constraints or traveling with younger people? take the tube. Otherwise the "connect" was a good experience for us.
Dan
WA USA Thu 10/12/2006
There is an Italian place, The Spaghati House near Victoria Station. Also several "Pubs". In the Station are a Marks and Spensers, food only, a SAinsbury's and a Whistlestop- all groceries with good pasteries, etc. The station also has a nice food court upstairs as well as lots of food stalls on the lower level. Bagles and stuffed potatoes, sushi, McDonald's and KFC as well as some traditionally British fast food places like Garfunkle's. You won't have a problem finding good, fast or inexpensive eats!
USA Thu 10/12/2006
Cheap Places to Eat?
I will be taking a group tof middle school, high school and parents to London in June, 2007 and we will be having breakfast at the hotel. I am looking for very low cost places for dinner. Any suggestions? We will be staying close to Victoria Station.
Andy Perry <email>
Louisville, KY USA Thu 10/12/2006
Italy - Prague Nov. 3 - 5
Hoping to go from Tuscany to Prague the weekend of Novemeber 3, Friday - Novemeber 5, Sunday. All airports in Northern Italy (ROME, FLORENCE, MILAN) are accessible to me by train. Any suggestions? Thanks, anything is helpful!
ACM
Arezzo, Tuscan ITA Thu 10/12/2006
Heathrow-Gatwick Express
One should note that a BR Pass also includes the Heathrow and Gatwick Express trains, if the day you use them is a 'travel day.' And, depending on where you are staying the night before you leave, or the night of the day you arrive, they may also be the most convenient.
For example:
On my approaching trip to the UK, I shall be staying in Exeter, and will have a BR pass. I'll be arriving at LHR Terminal 4 around mid-morning. OK - so - validate the pass on the way to the Heathrow-Express, and ride that in to Paddington. That's the station with all the really good trains to Exeter. Get off at Paddington, and change there to the next train for Exeter. Paddington is an 'end-on' station, so there are no stairs, escalators,etc. in getting from one platform to another.
Paddington is also the main station for trains to Bristol, South Wales, Cornwall, Oxford, and other places. (It is also on the Circle, District, and Metropolitan lines of the London Underground, but there will be stairs, etc. to get to them.)
I once made a connection from the Heathrow Express to go to Exeter in 2 minutes. (It wouldn't have been a disaster if I hadn't, as there was another Exeter train only 45 minutes later.)
For Gatwick, check out the destinations from Victoria.
So, this really is another option.
ERT
Denver, CO USA Thu 10/12/2006
Security alternatives
There are alternatives to moneybelts that are prudent and effective including neck safes, leg safes and PacSafe purses with security features. Please don't label those of us who prefer to use alternatives as clueless, unaware or naive. Whatever the method used to keep money safe, it should be coupled with a confident and comfortable demeanor and an awareness of one's surroundings. I've watched people with moneybelts act foolishly by taking their money out in crowded areas or wearing the belt incorrectly. It's not the device alone that promotes security - it's the behavior of the wearer, too.
USA Thu 10/12/2006
Moneybelts
The topic of moneybelts has been done to death. With all the postings, I have never heard of anyone with a moneybelt being robbed of items stored there. Why don't we leave it at this? Those who use them will continue to use them and feel more secure. Those who don't will be content with their precautions also - until they get robbed. Then everyone who has suggested they use an inexpensive, comfortable and easy way to safeguard their money, passport and credit cards can say "I told you so". Continuing to try to convince those who live in a "it won't happen to me" world is useless.
USA Thu 10/12/2006
Potential Travel Problems
Budget Travel recently had an article on ten common errors that Am travelers can and often do make. Nothing new, some are the same as Steves promotes, but it always good to read another viewpoint for avoiding problems. The web site is http://budgettravelonline.com/bt-dyn/content/article/2006/09/07/AR2006090701067_2.html
PS -- no mention of moneybelts :-)
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Thu 10/12/2006
Restaurant in 7th
Just checking with people who have been to Paris recently to see if Au Gros Caillou on rue de Grenelle or Pegoty's Tea Room on Bosquet are still there. Web searches have been unsuccessful. Thanks.
USA Thu 10/12/2006
Bergen-Frankfurt
And you can get Bergen-Frankfurt for around USD 125 one way on SAS. There is no direct flight, transfer in Oslo or Copenhagen
Chrismo1
Denmark Thu 10/12/2006
lake Cuomo
i'm travelling with my mother to lake cuomo for 2 nights.. i'm planing to take the train. once i get off the train - how far is the lake & do i need to take a cab to the hotels. i haven't reserved a hotel as of yet
vivian <email>
new york, ny USA Wed 10/11/2006
We are landing in Malpenza Airport (Milan)at 8:30 at night. Does anyone know of a quiet place close? either Milan or north.
Mary Ellen <email>
Bellingham, WA USA Wed 10/11/2006
Calabria, Italy..anyone been?
Hey all, since Rick doesn't talk about Calabria, Italy, has anyone ever been? If so, what are some good places to go, stay, eat,...thanks!
Joshua <email>
Eagle River, AK USA Wed 10/11/2006
Travel from Bergen Norway
According to expedia.com, one way Bergen to Copenhagen non-stop flights, on SAS airlines are only $88.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Wed 10/11/2006
Bergen to Copenhagen
We did that trip in 2005 on TAP (the Portugese national airline). They had the lowest fares at that time. I think we just found it on the web by googling. I can't even begin to imagine why a Portugese airline would have the lowest fare on that route, but other lines were ten times as much.
USA Wed 10/11/2006
Farm timeshare in Tuscany available 12/16/06
Big Oops! We have a timeshare exchange at beautiful farm in Tuscany the week beginning 12/16/06. It is about 30 miles south of Florence. Our travel plans changed and we will offer at a price to cover our expense. Email for details.
Carmen <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 10/11/2006
Just...
C'est trouis bien. Nice, i mean. Thanks!
tgash@hugo.com <email>
Fbttbqu, Gjloq Lzayi Wed 10/11/2006
Options to Money Belts
Not all of us use Rick's suggestion of a Money Belt, but that does not mean we don't take precautions!!
I just came back from Spain (Madrid and barcelona) where pick pockets are supposed to be greater than most of Europe! I traveled with a small day pack that has multilayer pockets. I put my passport and cards in the inner pocket, and a small combo lock on it.
If I were in a crowded situation like a subway, I'd hold the pack in front of me, zipper facing in. I even wore a jacket with an inside zipper, and then zipped the entire jacket to my neck. Not only did i keep me warm, but my money was close to my busoms too (laugh).
Just remember to be aware of your surroundings, and if you look scared, the thieves will sense it too.
USA Wed 10/11/2006
GATWICK/ HEATHROW EXPRESS
Lisa,
The Gatwick and Heathrow Express is not the cheapest (the bus is) but it IS the most comfortable and reliable, and possibly the fastest. I got to relax, enjoy a cuppa tea, and my hubby even got a quick nap.
To me, its worth taking the Express to get you to the city
USA Wed 10/11/2006
Paris Side Trips
Jean,
I agree about Reims as a side trip from Paris. You can tour one of the wineries - I toured Piper Caves years ago.
You can take the train arriving in time for lunch. Then take a winery tour. I do recall that many establishments are closed on Mondays.
Good luck and enjoy!
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Wed 10/11/2006
Travel from Bergen Norway
Question: How can I travel from Bergen Norway to Copenhagen? I will be completing the Best of Scandinavia tour next August and I am trying to pre-book connections to Frankfurt, Germany.
C. Blackman
Dallas,, TX USA Wed 10/11/2006
Paris Side Trips
Hello Jean,
Usually the back of good travel guides give easy to reach day trips from Paris. The following are a few that I’ve taken, all by train: the palaces of Versailles and Fontainbleau; the towns of Chartres and Reim; Josephine's home, Malmaison; Vaux le Vicomte from which Versailles was modeled; and the home of Monet at Giverny (excuse any misspellings). No need for a car. For Giverny and Vaux, when you arrive in the town just take a taxi to the house, not expensive. Malmaison you can taxi to also, or walk through the little town. The others are all in walking distance from the train. All worth seeing. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip.
Devra <email>
Lake Forest, CA USA Wed 10/11/2006
Newgrange
Newgrange and other sites. Go to the Visitors Center and purchase the Heritage Pass. This gets you in to many sites and you don't have to hire a special tour guide. There is a "guide" that takes you to the sites and explains the history to you.
The Pass is worth purchasing at the first site you visit and it's good for your whole trip.
Bonnie
Portland, OR USA Wed 10/11/2006
Newgrange
Just remembered the lady's name who runs the Newgrange tours. Mary Gibbons!!!! check out www.newgrangetours.com
Judy
Adelaide, SA Australia Tue 10/10/2006
Newgrange
I visited Newgrange in April. Went on a day tour booked through the Dublin Tourist Office in Bagot Street. The lady running the tour was Mary?????. Brilliant day. I would highly recommend the tour. Newgrange is not be missed. Our guide was so informative and had a great passion and knowledge of Irish history. We visited the Hill of Tara on route to Newgrange.
Judy
Adelaide, SA Australia Tue 10/10/2006
Train Reservation Cost?
Hi,
Can anyone tell me what is the reservation cost for both western and eastern europe trains?
Thanks,
Bernard
Bernard
Singapore, SGP Singapore Tue 10/10/2006
Baggage security
I have an old friend with whom I grew up so I have known him over 60 years. Now retired he was a pilot for years and later an inspector of some sort for a major airline. He says that he has often seen baggage handlers breaking into luggage IN GROUPS and dividing up the "spoils" and that they have no hesitation in falsifying reports. If you happen to be unlucky enough to be one of the ones chosen, then you will lose any valuables you have. We have more recently checked our bags because at our age it is impossible to "fight" the many rude passengers to get our bags on the plane and in a bin. We just make it a point to never check bags with anything valuable in them. Unfortunately the airlines do not consider your luggage a high priority and until passengers force them to do so, they will ignore our complaints. It is cheaper to pay the complaints than set up a better system.
Charles M . Luther
Katy, , TX USA Tue 10/10/2006
Tube into London
Thank you to everyone on the quick response regarding the tube at Heathrow.
PS. I agree, enough with the moneybelts, everyone has their own level of security so do what is comfortable for you. I have traveled in 5 European countries without a moneybelt (used a purse with a top zipper) while visiting all the major tourist sites and have never had any problems.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Tue 10/10/2006
Tube into London
Jeff~~yes, you can the tube from terminal 4. It is the Piccadilly Line, it will make stops at Knightsbridge, Piccadilly Circus and Kings Cross. The cost is 3.80BP
Troy, Ohio USA Tue 10/10/2006
London photo
3PeasinaPod: I believe that's the department store Liberty.
Teresa
Seattle, USA Tue 10/10/2006
Please identify this place
Hello
On a recent trip to London, I shot this photo; I was told it was a shot of the Selfridge building but I still question this name. Would anyone be able to confirm or provide a name?
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid181/p427dfe72bb4f055a2bd72fddfc822226/f2d1b7ef.jpg
http://www.imagestation.com/album/pictures.html?id=2122317823&idx=19
Thank you
one of the peas in a pod
3peasinapod
Carroll County, MD USA Tue 10/10/2006
Reporting Crime
Greetings
Can we give the moneybelt thing a rest, please! Pickpockets exist in the US too, and there are many ways of keeping your money/credit cards safe. The money belt is not the end all and be all.
Unfortunately, I don't think there's much you can do now that you've left the Czech Republic. Your best bet is to go the central police station in Vienna, but I suspect that unless it's a very serious crime that they can't/won't do anything. The only other option might be to contact the train company - sometimes there are special arrangements for policing of trains that cross national boundaries.
I'm a bit surprised that the credit card companies need a police report - I've never been asked for one either when cancelling a lost card or dealing with a fraudelent charge. They would just ask me to identify when I made the last valid charge and to get the form with the fraudelent charge noted 'stamped' by someone from my UK bank.
Scotland Tue 10/10/2006
re:Help! Ripped off in Czech Republic
As is always mentioned here, always carry a money belt. I use the one around my neck and tuck it in my shirt. So far so good.
I carry a small bicycle lock and lock my pack whenever I can to a rail on the train or whatever is available. It isn't foolproof, but it would take a pretty sturdy knife to cut the pack strap off.
Tom <email>
Sacramento , Ca USA Tue 10/10/2006
London Airport to City
You can take the Underground from Heathrow for 4#.
Jeff
USA Tue 10/10/2006
More on Money Belts
It's hard to feel any sympathy for people who refuse to follow prudent recommendations, then scream for help. Travelers, you've all been warned REPEATEDLY-there are pick pockets and thieves near tourist areas! Wear a hidden money belt or take the chance of becoming the next vistim.
USA Tue 10/10/2006
Another victim with no money belt
...another testimonial for the use of money belts! Better safe than sorry like the last poster. When will people learn...
USA Tue 10/10/2006
Help! Ripped off in Czech Republic
On the train today from Prague to Vienna, my wallet was stolen. An elderly man came into our compartment in Brno, sat across from me and left at the next stop. We think he took my wallet/purse. He put his bags next to a seat with some of my things. All I lost was a drivers license and several credit cards. Last night I emptied my wallet of all cash and put it in an secret place in my (Rick Steves)tote bag. So the thief did not get a dime. The cards have all been cancelled thanks to Mom's work back home, but some card companies want a police report. So how does an American in Austria report a crime in CZ? (By the way, I'm so glad I made copies of the cards for both Mom and me. And that I thought my wallet was too heavy yesterday.)
Ginny <email>
USA Tue 10/10/2006
Apartment in Rome
This is the apartment we rented in Rome:
http://www.primitaly.it/appartamenti/casaparadiso/index.html
We rented from www.sleepinitaly.com, but the above link will take you directly to the owners.
No, I'm not hired by ETBD, but I think that could be a very nice job. Also, there are 2 Tim's here on the board...just in case you didn't know.
Tim
TN USA Tue 10/10/2006
Hotel vs. apartment
It is even better when the fridge is already stocked with first necessity food... Internet, free telephone calls to the US, UK, Autralia France etc...
This is what you can get and much more at My home in Dijon . www.myhomeindijon.com
This apartment got very nice reviews on Fodors and tripadvisor forums.
And Dijon is really worth a stay!
Tue 10/10/2006
Cheapest way from London Airport to City?
What is the cheapest way to get from the airport in London to the City. The Heathrow and Gatwick Express are £26 r/t which is about $48. Is there a cheaper way? I haven't booked the plane ticket yet, both airports are the same to fly into. Thanks!
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Tue 10/10/2006
france
at this poitn the flight we will be on will be arriving in paris around 4pm.
So I was researching how to get to Nice that same day....charters will get us in pretty late such as around 10pm or so
I was also looking at Air France which would get us in around 9pm or so.
Of course I would rather get in early but it probably is not possible....
If I could get to Nice the first day though it would make the trip more streamlined.
bluedenim <email>
canada Tue 10/10/2006
Hotel vs. apartment
We've never (yet) stayed in an apartment, but our stays in small hotels in Germany and Britain have left us with warm memories of chatting with the owners and getting helpful information about nearby sights. Sometimes the other guests are fun to meet too, as when we discovered, over breakfast in the heart of Munich, that the next table was occupied by people on a tour from our hometown junior college! I think that for families with children apartments may be ideal, but as a couple traveling alone, we've always enjoyed the sociability of small, family-run hotels. (I admit, it's nice to have a small refrigerator in your room for storing lunches and/or snacks.)
Meg Rosenfeld <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Tue 10/10/2006
Apartment in Rome
Tim, What apartment(name) did you find in Rome? (October response) Other city I'm interested in is Florence. Want to stay under 100 euro.
Are you "hired" by ETBD to respond to many of our questions? Norm too?? Just curious as you two seem to be well informed. Thanks.
Bonnie <email>
Portland, OR USA Tue 10/10/2006
Paris side trips
We will be in Paris next year. What are some of the best day trips? Is it better to go with a tour or use the train to the sites or rent a car. Are there drivers one can hire with a van to take you where you want to go? There will be six adults in our group.
Jean <email>
Brownsburg, IN USA Tue 10/10/2006
Apartment vs Hotel
We stayed in an apartment for two weeks in Switzerland. We have also done B&Bs, pensions, and hotels. We liked going both ways.
We have fond memories of our apartment in Switzerland. We could get up in the morning get fresh bread and cheese and eat in our apartment. The whole experience was a lot of fun. The only downside would be that it limited our ability to see more of the country on that trip.
Tom <email>
Sacramento, Ca USA Tue 10/10/2006
Apartment vs Hotel
Three of us stayed in an apartment in Paris last year. It was an excellent decision. The cost was the same as a hotel, we had room to move around and having a refrigerator and microwave for snacks was great. If we were interested, a cleaning service was avaialble but why bother? It was nice to have privacy and not have to consider a maid coming into our room.
Dusting while on vacation? That's a joke, right?
Jean
USA Tue 10/10/2006
To Lady Traveler
We rented an apartment in Rome, and we did "NOT" dust or vacuum. We did put a couple of dishes in the dishwasher. We also were fortunate enough not to have to look for a laundromat since our apartment had a washing machine. We did enjoy having 3 different floors of living space in our apartment. We also enjoyed paying about 1/2 the price of a hotel.
Lastly, on those hot Roman days it was FANTASTIC to walk into my apartment a pull a couple of 75 cent cans of ice-cold Coke from my refrigerator...instead of paying 4 Euro at the local stand.
Like you say, to each his/her own.
Tim
USA Tue 10/10/2006
To Beth: Here's Another Viewpoint
Believe it or not, there are those of us who look forward to a vacation as an escape from dusting, dishes, vacuuming and cleaning. That's why I like hotels. They provide all those services. But I'm just strange that way ...
We save all year for our trips. I like to splurge a bit on a vacation. Trust me, we have always found nice hotels that are within our budget.
Celebrate the differences in us all.
Lady Traveler
USA Tue 10/10/2006
apartment vs hotel
When researching for my first upcoming trip to Europe and reading the recommended places by Rick in his guides, I notice that they are usually hotels, B&B's or hostels. I know that there are lots of apartments available for short term stays - like 1-3 nights, so why do so many people stay in hotels when you can have your own kitchen, bath, and sometimes washer/dryer in an apt? Moreover, it's almost the same cost, or sometimes a little less by renting an apt. I'm leaning towards reserving an apt but am worried why Rick doesn't recommend some. I'm a person with a budget of 100 Euro or less so I can't even consider his $$$ or $$ hotels.
Beth
USA Tue 10/10/2006
France for Blue Denim
A better way to connect these dots in late May would be to consolidate some of these overnights and to fly open jaws, for instance:
Fly into Nice, see some of Cote D'Azure. Drive or train to Aix, see Aix, with day trip to Marseilles. Drive or train to Arles, see some of Provence (many day trips possible, car very helpful). On the day you go to Paris, leave your car in Avignon and your luggage at the trian station, tour Avignon, and take the TGV to Paris. Fly home from there at the end. Don't double back--what a waste of your vacation!
Adam
Boston, USA Mon 10/09/2006
Stonehenge tours
Charlotte - re tours to Stonehenge - check on www.premiumtours.co.uk They have some interesting day tours from London. Price is about $65 for adults and usually includes another city or two i.e. Windsor, Bath, Oxford or Lacock (of Harry Potter fame). We have not used this company though, so don't know how good they are.
Franny
Seattle, Wa USA Mon 10/09/2006
Rental Car from Venice
We rented our car from Hertz in downtown Venice through the AAA; the rate was very reasonable for eight days. We picked up our car at a location away from the airport in order to avoid the airport tax. We spent the last several days of our trip in Venice so the spot where we dropped off the car downtown, Piazzale Roma, is where we needed to be to catch a vaparetto to our hotel.
Joan
USA Mon 10/09/2006
Bernard
Can anyone tell us what is the additional cost that we need to pay for compulsory reservation for:
1. Eastern Europe trains and
2. Western Europe trains
Singapore <email>
Singapore, SGP Singapore Mon 10/09/2006
Europe Trip
Yes, we are going into Amsterdam & staying in Haarlem. We are due to arrive at 7:45 a.m. & the hotel won't be ready until around 2 p.m. We are supposed to meet up with the group around 5.
The last time I went to Europe, we got there early that morning & the hotel wasn't available until early afternoon. So I strolled around & got some coffee to stay awake until the room was ready, then I took a nap before meeting with the group for dinner. Then I went to sleep after dinner when it was dark & I was fine. I assume I'll do the same again this time!!
Aquarius11
Philly, PA USA Mon 10/09/2006
Oktoberfest 2007
Does anyone know the best way to order reservations for the beer tents for Oktoberfest 2007? I've heard you have to obtain the reservations well in advance.
Norm <email>
Tustin, CA USA Mon 10/09/2006
Tour Arrival/Start Date
Yes, you need to leave the US the day before your tour starting date. You don't say what city your tour starts in, but you should verify times with Rick's Tour Divas to make sure you don't cut yourself short by arriving too late to meet with the group the first day of the tour. For instance, if you are starting in Haarlem, it can take a while to get your luggage, hit the ATM machine, get ticket and find the bus and make your way to the Grote Markt Square where your hotel will likely be. Other starting cities would require much the same. We have always arrived the day BEFORE the tour starts so we can get our jet-lag under control and not miss the first day of the group activities by being off-schedule internally. I've traveled with fellow tour members who missed out on fun activities and dinners because they did not arrive a day early. Happy travels!
Renee
CO USA Mon 10/09/2006
Hotel in Dinan, France
I was unable to find space in Dinan in any of Rick's recommended Hotels. On an other website we found Hotel de la Porte Saint Maol.A 15 minute walk from the train station. Very nice & quiet, just outside city walls.ROOMIE!
Carl in Texas <email>
Temple, Texas USA Mon 10/09/2006
Re: TSA Locks
I've had a TSA lock disappear from my bag. When I asked about it, I was told that the locks sometimes fail and will not unlock. When that happens, they have to cut off the lock to gain access to the bag.
USA Mon 10/09/2006
BELLAGIO HOTEL/APARTMENT
HI, HAS ANYONE STAYED AT AN APARTMENT IN BELLAGIO OR DO YOU HAVE RECOMMENDATION FOR HOTEL THAT IS NOT TOO PRICEY. WE WILL BE THERE OCT. 21ST.THANKS J. BRUNO
JANICE BRUNO <email>
FALLBROOK, CA USA Mon 10/09/2006
Re: Jon, Greek Islands
To each his own, but I would have to say I agree with the previous poster, and personally would not book much, and do it on my own. You may not be comfortable with that...use an agent. Unless it is for late July or August, rooms, ferries and other needs will be plentiful on those Islands, allowing you to just show up, or book ahead as you go. Going through an agent, you will most likely pay more for the service and convienence. Do make sure you ask them about guarantees (Ferries can be notorious for cancelling due to weather, stranding you for a day or two).
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 10/09/2006
Venice weather in November?
I'm looking for advice regarding possible weather conditions in Venice, Italy. My husband I will be touring November 6-8. I'm a very "hot natured" so I normally only wears long sleeves when the temps dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. What temps might we expect during the day and during the evening? Will the water in the canal make the temps feel cooler (breeze)? How about rain? Will it often be just a drizzel or a heavy downpour? How about flooding? Would a windbreaker jacket be sufficient? Any tips will be greatly appreciated.
Lisa <email>
West Memphis, AR USA Mon 10/09/2006
France...
I would drop the single night in Avingon, and spend 3 nights in Arles. You can take an early train from Arles to Avingon, see the sights there, then take an afternoon train to Paris. The Pope's Palace and the bridge (of nursery rhyme fame) are an easy walk from the centre ville train station. You'll likely have to change trains in Avignon, anyway, and take a shuttle bus to the TGV station in the suburbs. Avoid one-night stays whenever you can.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Mon 10/09/2006
france...
we are in the midst of planning a late may trip to france.
We want to start in paris and then do the south and provence.
we have about two weeks....how does this look
Paris-Nice-three nights
Nice-Marseille- one night
Marseille-Aix- two nights
Aix-Arles- two nights
Arles-Avingon on night
Avingon-Paris- 4 or 5 nights
bluedenim <email>
canada Mon 10/09/2006
Stonehenge tours
I am going to London (for 5th time!) in November- I want to see Stonehenge/Avebury. I have found a few tour companies on the internet. Does anyone know a good tour company- are there any places in London that I can get a tour? Is it easier to do it on my own and take the train to salisbury?
Melissa <email>
Charlotte, NC USA Mon 10/09/2006
Aquarius11: ETBD Tour
You can always fly into a city as early as you want. If you've found an airfare that's $500 cheaper if you fly in 3 days before as opposed to the day of the tour, then by all means fly in early and sightsee around town on your own for a few days. Same thing works for departing.
Personally I would not want to be arriving on a plane on the day "OF" the start of the tour. What if you plane is delayed?
Tim
USA Mon 10/09/2006
PAT...NEED ADVICE ON USED AUTO PURCHADSE
Check to see if you CAN sell your car in England before you buy.
When I brought a car from France into London to ship to Texas the authorities warned me that I must ship it and could not sell it.
USA Mon 10/09/2006
DIRECTIONS FROM TALLINN FROM PORT ON FOOT
Do a google search for “Tallinn city map” and print a map showing the streets you want to see.
Tallinn is so small you can walk across the entire area in 20 minutes.
MAE M.
NYC, NY USA Mon 10/09/2006
Just to Verify!!!
We just signed up for the 21 day ETBD tour. It states the days are from 6/23-7/13. So we will need to fly out of the US on 6/22, to arrive on 6/23 to start the tour. Correct??
I'd just rather be safe than sorry!! (especially when dealing with US Airways!! :P)
Aquarius11
Philly, PA USA Mon 10/09/2006
TSA LOCKS
I have used TSA locks for several years. Never a problem. If they were opened, they were closed again by the agents. When I flew from Norfolk yesterday the TSA agent asked if my bags were locked.
I told him I had TSA locks on them . He said great. I stood back and watched him as he put them through the xray machine.
Both were passed without question. So I don’t know if others were opened or not. I watched the agents as they inspected about 10 bags and they did not open any.
Every airport procedure is different.
USA Mon 10/09/2006
PARIS WEATHER
Weather in Paris in April and May will be cold and wet usually. But you might be lucky and hit a dry spell.
DALLAS, TX USA Mon 10/09/2006
TSA locks
I always use TSA locks when I travel. I've never had one disappear.
I just returned yesterday from Switzerland. I used them on the way over, and the way back. I had no problems.
When checking into United at Zurich's airport, they didn't even question my locks.
I would never leave home without my luggage being secure. I've seen the reports of baggage handlers in the USA that rifle through our stuff and take what looks good. thank you very much, but I'm not going to let someone take my stuff that I worked hard to earn, or a souvenir that I purchased on a well deserved trip! TSA locks for me all the way.
USA Mon 10/09/2006
European sunsets
Looking for greatest photos of European sunsets, preferrably from a beachside or elevated view. I am trying to find one sunset image over water that makes the viewer feel relaxed, carefree, romantic, and at peace. My shots did not come out that great. Any and all photos would be appreciated.
Bill <email>
Salem, Oregon USA Sun 10/08/2006
France Sites
Three days is the perfect amount of time to explore Normandy by car. The countryside is gorgeous, with beautiful villages, hilly green and yellow fields, ancient crumbling castles, and pretty white cows. I could explore it forever. It also has some of France's most memorable sites -- Mont St. Michel, the D-day beaches and the American cemetary, the WWII museum at Caen, and the tapestry at Bayeaux. Also, Giverny (Monet's home and gardens) is a convenient stop between Paris and Normandy.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Sun 10/08/2006
Florence and Venice
Hello Joan or anyone else for info for me.
Please tell me what car rental agency you used out of Venice. I'm planning a trip for my husband and me in April or May, 2007. I'm trying to decide where to fly in to and out of.Can someone tell me which of the two months is best to travel? Our "main" sights will be Florence, no further south than Rome then the Tuscany area with a car then the Cinque Terre. I don't know if we should fly into Venice. Spend some days there then rent a car and do the Tuscany area, drop the car then continue on to Rome. I'm not sure where I'll put the Cinque Terre. OR, fly into Rome, do our days there, rent a car and do the Tuscany area, drop the car in Florence then take the train to Venice and Cinque Terre. We could then go back to Florence and fly to Oregon from there. Any suggestions. We have 3 weeks. You can email me direct if you'd rather or put on the Graffiti wall for others use of the information. Grazie.
Bonnie <email>
Tigard, OR USA Sun 10/08/2006
France sites
I will be in France for 7 days. I am spending 3 nights in Paris and want to use the other 3 days for France by car. Appreciate anyone's suggestions for those other 3 days. Want would you consider the top 3 priorities for France Countryside?
Thank you
Sue
SUE
USA Sun 10/08/2006
Florence & Venice
My husband and I just returned from a trip to Italy. We flew into and out of Venice with U. S. Airways. We were very happy with our flights and our departure flight from Venice to Philadelphia left at 11:30 A. M. so I would recommend checking their website.
We rented a car from Venice and headed for Tuscany where we spent part of our trip. Consider using GPS. Even though we didn't expect to have a problem finding our way from place to place, there were times that we did get lost which meant less time at our next destination.
Have a great time!
Joan
USA Sun 10/08/2006
TSA locks
My husband and I both used those TSA locks on our last trip and neither one of use had any trouble. We traveled on different airlines due having enough free mileage on two different airlines.
We were in Chicago, Atlanta, Gatwick and Heathrow with out any problems with the locks.
Ohio USA Sun 10/08/2006
Meg--Buy a map
I don't know where your boat is landing, but when I landed on a ferry from Finland, we were quite a distance from the center of the city. I believe that our cab cost $35. (There's probably some kind of public transportation too.) Gamla Stan is great, but buy a guidebook and/or map. Scandinavia is expensive, but not buying a guidebook is not the way to save money. Not everybody agrees with me, but I find the maps in Rick's books very user-friendly. And I still think that if you're going to the places that Rick covers, Rick's books are the best to take with. Otherwise I prefer the Lonely Planet books. If I just want to stay home and fantasize, I prefer the DK books.
Karen <email>
MN USA Sun 10/08/2006
Paris Weather
I was in Paris the 2nd week of May this past year. During the week it rained a few days, but the last 3 days were beautiful, warm around 20-22. I think it would be a little colder in April so a light jacket might be needed.
<email>
vancouver, Canada Sun 10/08/2006
Stadsgarden to gamla Stan
My husband and I are arriving to Stockholm and I think the port's name is Stadsgarden? how far is this to gamla Stan? We would like to visit the Royal Palace. We love to walk so we were thinking of walking. How do you get to Gamla Stan? Can you help with street names or directions to reach the palace? Thank you for your help.
Meg V.
Buffalo, NY USA Sun 10/08/2006
Paris weather
What is the weather like in Paris in April or May?
parisbound
USA Sun 10/08/2006
Yes, there are ATM's at Marco Polo
Marhanal - a quick google for Venice Airport leads you to many sites (including veniceairport.it) that detail services available at this airport. There are many ATM's including a Banco di Roma ATM in the arrivals section of Marco Polo.
USA Sun 10/08/2006
'Silly question'
Last fall I flew Pittsburgh to JFK and JFK to Brussels. I spent a week in Belgium and the Netherlands and flew from Amsterdam to Treviso (near Venice). This last flight was a budget flight within Europe, arranged separately.
Coming home, I flew Genoa to CDG (Paris) then Paris to JFK and JFK
home.
Never had anyone question my itinerary.
I believe this is similar to the question you asked.
Linda
USA Sat 10/07/2006
Brussels/Venice ATMS/TSA Locks
I'm leaving for Italy in 4 weeks and just discovered that, according to Visa, there are not ATMS in Marco Polo Airport. I've never flown into a European airport without ATMS before and wondered if this is accurate. Also, I had planned to get cash when I change planes in Brussels. Can anyone tell me if atms are located conveniently so I can get cash before I get to Italy? By the way, I use electrician's straps to lock luggage I'm checking after it's gone through security. It's more secure than a tie and would take longer to get open but easy to cut off if TSA wants a look.
Marhanal <email>
NC USA Sat 10/07/2006
TSA locks.
I was tempted to purchase some of those TSA locks some time back, but had heard several stories of them disappearing from luggage. What we use now, are those small green 'Twister seals one uses to close off plastic bags of produce in the grocery store.We keep several spares in one of the pockets for use while travelling. We never EVER put anything of value in our luggage, and make sure any liquids are double sealed in a plastic bag surrounded by a paper towel.
Colin
Seattle, Wash USA Sat 10/07/2006
spain portugal & morroco five weeks
Hi..has anyone bought LLBeans new lightweight luggage or do you have any tips on a different brand? Also want to take a tour of morroco. Anyone have some advice? Thanks
Margot <email>
McKees Rocks, PA USA Sat 10/07/2006
Safety in Paris
Agnes - we did not have any problems with safety in Paris. I was clutching my shoulder bag (in between me and my husband). When we went on the Metro with our luggage I put my shoulder bag inside my suitcase - I figured that a thief would have a hard time taking off with my suitcase.I did pay attention to what was going on around me all the time. Any noise was usually someone running to catch the Metro - but better to be safe than sorry. We noticed many Gendarmes - everywhere - so hopefully that has discouraged the pick-pockets.
Franny
Seattle, WA USA Sat 10/07/2006
TSA Lock
I bought a pack of two TSA locks in 2004 and used one on my suitcase. It was still on my bag when I got to England. It was still on my bag when I arrived in Rome. When I got back to the U.S., it was gone. I've no idea what TSA might have been interested in because nothing was missing from my suitcase and nothing appeared to have been moved around. Still, it was pretty annoying to lose a fairly pricy lock.
Teresa
WA USA Sat 10/07/2006
TSA Took Lock
Just returned from three weeks in UK and Ireland. Left Dublin for London thence Newark thence Seattle. TSA in Newark opened my Rick Steves supposedly "TSA-OK'd" lock and did not return it ... it's gone. They appear to have been interested in a ziploc bag filled with hotel-size shampoos and lotions. This was opened and not re-zipped, which could have led to a pretty messy suitcase. Fortunately it didn't spill out. After 3 weeks on the road this was my only even close to bad experience, but I still thought I'd raise the issue ... anyone have a "TSA-OK'd" lock used the right way? Or should we just skip it, save the $10, and leave our luggage unlocked? BTW, at Gatwick my friend went through the metal detector with her boarding pass in her hand. Then she had to put the pass in her hand luggage and go back through the metal detector without it. Oh well. A lovely English lady caught up with us later and said she felt ever-so-much-more safe having seen the incident. Happy Travels, All. Pat
Pat Morgan <email>
Lacey, WA USA Sat 10/07/2006
Paris Taxi - thanks
Eurostar Taxi info: thanks Franny and Tim-USA for the taxi and opentour help. Just a bit nervous as three, yes three, of my daughters' friends from Edinburgh where mugged in Paris in recent and separate incidences. these were very seasoned travelers - so we are just trying to PLAN and 'act French'. Infact we are practicing our scowls as I write.
Agnes
NC, USA Sat 10/07/2006
Re: Oyster Cards and 2 for 1 Deal
Here's a quote from the FAQs at www.london2for1.com:
You are able to use Oyster cards that are issued in conjunction with:
Freedom passes
Travelcards - weekly, monthly or yearly. However your Oyster card MUST be accompanied by your Record Card that proves the purchase of a Travelcard which is valid for the date of your visit.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 10/07/2006
beaches
ah...check out Sitges...
30 min train from barcelona!
bluedenim
vancouver, canada Sat 10/07/2006
LB/USA
Re: Oyster card 2 for 1. This was just discussed on Trip Advisor/London forum the other day. If I'm not mistaken you have to produce your receipt also.
Stephanie Norris <email>
Al USA Sat 10/07/2006
Collioure for Anne Marie
Collioure is sweet, French Catalan, and fun. I do not know how the beach there stacks up to others you might find in the Gulf de Lyon.
Adam
Boston, USA Sat 10/07/2006
Beaches near Barcelona
I need beach advice! June '07 we'll be traveling from Barcelona to Monaco and want a (sandy) beach break. Rick describes the drive to Cadaques as a 45 minute winding road. Two of us suffer from motion sickness so that doesn't sound good. How bad is the road? Has anyone stayed on Colluire in France and does it feel more Spanish than French? Any other ideas? We would prefer Spain to France, unless our Spanish will work.
Thanks!
Ann Marie
Seattle, USA Sat 10/07/2006
both Sicily questions
My daughter took the ferry to Naples from Lipari- almost nine hours and she was seasick the whole way (normally not an issue). It's unclear if you would put your rental car on the ferry crossing from Messina for the mainland driving option? We flew from Catania's airport to Rome, but Naples would've been an option as well. We had a full week and it was barely enough (for the other poster). For the extra time it takes to get there, stay as long as you can!
USA Fri 10/06/2006
Re: An Odd and Silly Question
There's a lot of truth in the old saying "The only silly question is an unasked question." However, there is no truth to what your mother has heard. It's very common to fly "open jaw"--into one country from home and then home from another country. It saves backtracking and is often no more expensive than a standard roundtrip ticket. For example, last year I flew Minneapolis-London on Icelandair, London-Cork on Ryanair, Dublin-Nice on Aer Lingus, and Paris-Minneapolis on Icelandair. My Minneapolis-London and Paris-Minneapolis flights were on one open jaw ticket.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 10/06/2006
How long for Sicily
Sicily is full of wonders; ruins of ancient Greece and Rome, gorgeous churches, medieval Moorish and Norman remains, Baroque era buildings. There's Mt. Etna and miles of beautiful coastline. We were there for nine days and didn't see everything we wanted. In short, I recommend you take as much time as you can.
P.S. The food is great!
USA Fri 10/06/2006
Sicily/Southern Italy/Amalfi Coast
We're flying into Palermo, out of Naples, late October/early November, and plan to spend one week in Sicily, one week on the Amalfi Coast. We're not afraid of driving with the Italians... Here is our dilemma:
After seeing Palermo for a day, we are renting a car, driving pretty much all over Sicily, and then we cannot decide if we should return the car in Sicily, take the ferry up to the Amalfi Coast/Naples; or, if we want to drive from Messina up through mainland Southern Italy on our way to Amalfi. Does anyone know if there is much to see driving up Southern Italy to Amalfi?
Should we drop the car after we drive the Amalfi Coast? Or drop the car in Sicily, and just ferry up or fly car-less to Naples/Amalfi? Feel free to email me directly if its easier. Thanks!
Charlotte <email>
Charleston, SC USA Fri 10/06/2006
an odd and very silly question in my opinion
Please keep in mind that my mother asked this humdinger of a question...is it possible to fly from the US to one country (Ireland) than to another (England) and yet another (France) then back to the US? She heard from a friend of a friend (you know how that goes) that her daughter tried to do something similiar and the last country refused to let her fly home from their country (based on the fact that her US flight landed in a different country). I thought that was a bit odd...but is there any truth to it? Thanks.
Sarah <email>
USA Fri 10/06/2006
Oyster cards and 2 for 1 deal
To avail of the 2 for 1 tickets in London, we have to present our train tickets. We were planning on buying Oyster cards for public transpo. Will they honor just us showing them the oyster card or is there a "receipt" that comes out after we use the oyster?
LB
USA Fri 10/06/2006
Sicily-how long to stay
What's your recommended time to stay in Sicily? My choices are 3, 4 or 5 full days. Thanks!
USA Fri 10/06/2006
Newgrange in October
Yes, you have to take a guided tour. The Lonely Planet Ireland guidebook says that the entire complex, including the three main passage tombs (of which only Newgrange and Knowth) are accessible, can only be visited as part of a tour run by the Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre (tel. 041-988 0300). The book says to plan one hour for the guided tour of the visitor centre; two hours if you're just going to Newgrange or Knowth; and at least half a day if you're going to tour the visitor centre, Newgrange, and Knowth. You can drive to the Visitor Centre. Call ahead to book a tour.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 10/06/2006
Re:Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos
Having just left 3 weeks in the Greek Island--Samos, Patmos, Rhodes, Santorini, Ios, Naxos--I will share my experience. Greece in the off-season like yours (May) and mine (Sept) does not need advance, meticulously planned places to stay and everything planned out--unless that is your style and need it to feel safe and secure. Maybe you are traveling with kids and have special needs, I don't know your situation--but if you have any sense of adventure I wouldn't go heavy into setting up every move--you don't need to. Every Greek Island is absolutely loaded with travel agencies and you pretty much have your pick of places to stay outside of the crazy, busy summer months. In fact, the one place I booked ahead on Samos I did not like and did not even stay one night--I just headed downtown and looked for a waterfront place and found a great one for a better price--20 Euros for a single. Just in the main town fronting the water of Samos there must be 12 travel agencies or more waiting to help you plan every move. When I got to Santorini I found a place just by walking around and looking for one that was perfect. I found one right on the rim of the caldera looking west to the water and sunset for 60 Euros for a double! My neighbors did a package tour one May and they did not like the place that they were booked into and just walked around and found a double on Mykonos for 40 Euro that they liked much better. Don't get bogged down in worry that you will get stuck or shut out--it won't happen in May. I would just get a good guidebook (Greek Island Hopping, Rough Guide, Lonely Planet are all good) maybe book the first night if that makes you feel better and wing it...have an adventure!
Richard
Bellingham, WA USA Fri 10/06/2006
Re: Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos
Jon - No experience with Fantasy Travel, so I couldn't comment there. On Naxos, we took a one-day photo tour with Stuart Thorpe (http://www.naxosphotoworkshop.com/onedaytour.php). We enjoyed it immensely. He's lived on Naxos for quite a few years, so he knows a lot of the nooks and crannies of the island. Even if you're not into photography, it's well worth it to take his tour. Depending upon the group, he'll adjust his tour as to the amount of walking, as well as sights that somebody may want to see. He also offers evening picnic tours.
While you're on Mykonos, make sure that you take a day-trip to Delos, an ancient holy island with gobs of temples and ruins. Well, more ruins than temples, but that's most sights in Greece. Take some Dramamine before you go. The seas were a bit choppy and our boat was a bit on the smaller side, making the journey a bit animated. Our Dramamine worked wonders. Any questions, feel free to write me offline.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 10/06/2006
Newgrange in October
Hi everybody...I was wondering if anyone had gone to Newgrange (monolithic passage tomb in Ireland) in late October. My soon to be wife is way into archeology, and this is her one "can't miss" in Ireland. I have read on other posts that, even in late October, the site can be so over crowded that people can not get in. Have any of you had this experience? I've also read that you can not make reservations unless you are part of a group. Is this true? We will have a rental car for a few days and thought we wuold hit Newgrange on the way to the west coast...would we be better off getting on one of those bus tours? I dread the idea of a bus tour, but if you guys think we would have a better chance of seeing the site, I will consider it.
Thanks
Steve
Sonoma County, CA USA Fri 10/06/2006
Confirming sobe in Croatia
Has anyone booked a room in Croatia and confirmed it by depositing money in their Croatian bank account? I am unfamiliar with this and would like some feedback. Thank you for your help!
Patty <email>
AR USA Fri 10/06/2006
Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos
We are planning a trip to the Greek Isles in May, We have been working through Fantasy Travel to set up hotels, ferries, transfers etc. Does any have any good or bad experience with them. Also, can anyone suggest any specific walking or bicycling treks on Santorini, Naxos or Mykonos?,
Jon <email>
Amherst, NH USA Fri 10/06/2006
streets in Tallin
Kay C.
When you arrive in Tallinn, just head for the tallest church spire! If possible remember your route for your return, but if you miss it by a street like we did, when the port is in sight (which is soon) you can find your way back to your pier.
Tallinn is neat, shopping is most affordable in Scandinavia. We climbed that church tower (250 steps)with our 15-year-old grandson and the view was great! Also got a close-up lesson on how standing-seam roofs are done (on neighboring building). Lynn
Lynn Swan <email>
Dickens, IA USA Fri 10/06/2006
Florence Venice
Sue
When deciding which airport to fly in and out of one thing to consider is most flights from Venice are very early which means leaving 4-4:30 AM. I don't know about you but being in a boat in the pitch black doesn't appeal to me. We flew into Venice and took the train to Florence and flew out of Pisa. Good luck whatever you do.
USA Fri 10/06/2006
Re: Suzann; How Soon to Plan?
Start Now! No, I don't mean air and hotel reservations; but I find the planning, learning about prospective areas to visit, wrangling over itineraries, and trying to pick out those special things to be nearly as interesting as travelling. Look at lots of guides, search the internet, and start notes. Work out a rough itinerary and refine as you go, just don't rush yourself too much. My basic rule is any significant sight deserves two nights (a day without travel) a major city at least three. A single night stay is OK occasionally, if you are only travelling a few hours that day and want to catch a small sight. I am a North to South person, saving better weather and cheaper costs for the end of a May/June trip on the coast. Airline tickets maybe about February (or about 12 weeks before). For two, in May, do not book all of your nights, have a good list of possibilities, book some destinations (First night(s), Paris or Venice for sure, but leave some nights in between for flexibility.
Paul <email>
IA USA Fri 10/06/2006
How Soon to Plan?
Suzann - since you will be traveling during shoulder season (end of low, beginning of high) you have a little more flexibility in booking hotels, etc. My daughter went to Europe for 3 weeks in the same time frame. She booked her airfare in late January and got a good price - at least on the flight out. The prices tend to go up after May 31st so her flight back was more expensive. They booked their night trains (in order to get a couchette) in April and also booked their hostels at that time. They were surprised to find that many of the highly rated hostels were already full but were basically happy with what they got.
A tip for anyone who likes to plan ahead and especially for those traveling during high season- After I get my flights (usually in January for summertime) I do a rough itinerary and book most of my hotels. Then I take a break, feeling that worst case scenario I have a pretty decent plan and places to stay. During the next several months it seems that everyone I meet has a great place to recommend that we visit/stay. I like looking at these boards, especially looking at recent reports from other travelers. I revisit my initial plan closer to when we are traveling and make changes based on what I've learned. In many cases it is easy to cancel hotel reservations or change the time that we are to visit. In some cases I find that the new place I'd like to book is already full, but again I have a pretty good second choice so it's not the end of the world.
I know not everyone wants to plan ahead but since we are traveling as a family I am always booking things like the one quad room in a small hotel or both rooms in a 2 room B&B. You cannot expect to find this available during the height of summer if you don't book it ahead of time. The planning ahead, for me anyway, gets me really excited about where we are going and is a traditional part of our trip. My kids enjoy getting the web link to the neat castle where we will stay, etc. We always say that our trips last about 9 months - from initial decision of where to visit, through the planning stages, then the actual trip, then the book that my husband produces afterward. Call us crazy but it works for us!
Karen
Atlanta, USA Fri 10/06/2006
Jeans in Italy? Only when cool.
Josh & Kim - the biggest thing to consider in the jeans in Italy question is the time of year that you will be traveling. If it is during summer you will very much regret packing those warm heavy pants - they just won't get much (if any) use. On the other hand if you are going in the winter, especially if you plan on being in Northern Italy, i.e. the Dolomite region - then jeans are great - warm, hard to get dirty, comfortable.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Fri 10/06/2006
Shopping in Amsterdam
Shops and most everything else will be open on Sundays.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Thu 10/05/2006
Re: Josh and Kim Jeans
You will see people wearing jeans all over Europe. If needed you may drop your dirty clothes off at a laundrette in the morning and pick them up in the evening. If you are the fishing, hiking, jeans wearing kind of Alaskans I know and once was, then wear those jeans! Take slacks if you feel that is right for you or forget them if you so choose. My sister prefers a jumper with a change of shirts. If you can not carry your suitcase for a mile,I suggest you lighten the load. As long as you do not clean your nails with fishing lures in public or hold your jeans up with fish line, it is unlikely many people will give you a second look. Oh yes! You can probably leave the duct tape at home. LOL.
Iowa USA Thu 10/05/2006
Directions from Tallinn from port on foot
Hello there! Anyone ever been to Tallinn's old town on foot perhaps arriving via cruise ship? Can you help me out by pointing out which streets to take from Reisisadam to the entrance to the Old Town? Having trouble with directions. Thank you so much.
Kaye C.
Chicago, ILL USA Thu 10/05/2006
Venice & Florence
Another thing to look into is an "open jaws" itinerary. Fly into Florence and return from Venice. It might cost a little more but the savings in hassle and train travel time might be worth it.
Jeff
USA Thu 10/05/2006
Go East
If you're on a tight budget, go East!
Karen <email>
MN USA Thu 10/05/2006
Florence and Venice
You might be able to fly into Venice for about the same cost as either Milan or Florence.
Jake
USA Thu 10/05/2006
Eastern vs Western Europe
I would heartily recommend that you consider Croatia. I just returned from there for the second time and was even more impressed than the first time. Not only are the costs significantly lower than Italy, for example, but English is much more readily spoken than anywhere I have been other than the UK or Ireland.
Jeff
USA Thu 10/05/2006
How soon?
My boyfriend and I are planning to go to Europe for 3 weeks starting the end of May. My question is when should I think about booking hotels, trains, and airfair? Also, is it better to start south and go north (or vice versa)? Any advice would be helpful.
Thank you!
Suzann <email>
Orangevale, CA USA Thu 10/05/2006
Re: Credit cards
Thanks Tim for the tip on Capitol One. They do not charge for using their credit cards outside of the US. I applied for a Capitol One credit card today.
I tried to get a Capitol One checking account too, so I could use their ATM card in Europe, but you have to apply in person in Tx or La. for that.
Tom <email>
Sacramento, Ca USA Thu 10/05/2006
Eastern Euro vs. Western Euro
My husband and I are planning a two month long budget-conscience sabaticle and are trying to decide whether it would be financially practicle to stick to countries in Eastern or Western Europe. We've both been to England, Scotland, and France...but not much farther East...Are the costs pretty reasonable (room & board/food/transportation/safety/etc.)?
Sabaticle Stir-crazy
USA Thu 10/05/2006
jeans--maybe, maybe not
Before giving advice on jeans, I would have to know how old you are, what kind of restaurants you plan on dining at and whether or not you will be visiting cities or hiking in the mountains. Zip-off pants are too casual for most restaurants in Italy--if you want to be seated at nice tables and treated with respect. That doesn't mean you shouldn't bring them. Just remember that people, especially women, dress up more in Italy than they do here. If I were bringing only 3 pairs of pants, I would bring one casual pair (jeans or zip-off), one semi-casual pair, and one pair of dress pants. Now, if you're young and gorgeous, you can wear whatever you want!
Karen <email>
MN USA Thu 10/05/2006
jeans
We took jeans on our trip to Germany. We also just had backpacks. I regretted having them because they took way too long to dry. Although I can relate to your feelings that you just might WANNA wear jeans some days. If you can deal with the longer drying time--go for it.
CK
Phoenix, AZ USA Thu 10/05/2006
Cell phones in Italy
On our travels when we have found it alot easier to buy a calling card here in the states before leaving, such as the one Costco carries. You can get your access numbers before leaving and MCI will tell you how much it costs per minute from Italy. If you call from your hotel they will not deduct any minutes from your card but when using a public phone there is an extra charge. If you have hotel reservations before you leave you can leave those numbers incase of an emergency. We have used these cards in England, Germany, and even in Russia this summer.
Venice <email>
Dixon, Ca USA Thu 10/05/2006
Jeans
If jeans are your comfort zone, go ahead and bring 'em. Our family has never worn jeans in Europe in the past. However, we were there in the spring, fall and summer. Also, we saw endless Europeans wearing them. This time, for a winter trip, we're all bringing a pair. They're warm, comfy and (in the winter) can be worn over and over without needing much more than spot touch ups. Don't be so concerned about "looking American". In Paris, for example, the stores are FULL of American clothing. Relax...it's ok!
USA Thu 10/05/2006
To jean or not to jean
Hey all!
Going to Italy for 23 days, using a backpack, bringing up to three pairs of pants (lightweight of course..) my question...I'm trying to be frugal with packing..of the three pairs of pants one willconvert to shorts.fyi, but.. should i bring a pair of jeans...(as part of the 3 pair of pants) i was thinking that over 23 days, there will be times that I JUST WANNA wear a pair of jeans!
What's everyone else think? I'll probably bring a pair, but it would be nice to hear some stories.
Ps, you know, havn't seen many spammers lately!
Thanks all.
Josh and Kim <email>
Eagle River, Ak USA Thu 10/05/2006
Shopping in Amsterdam
Are shops in Amsterdam generally open or closed on a Sunday?
Teresa
USA Thu 10/05/2006
Heathrow Transfers
You should be fine with a two hour window unless there's a delay. The only problem could be if the two flights are separately booked (i.e one is BA, the other Easy Jet etc.), in which case you have to recheck in and recheck any luggage. That can be a pain because it'a fairly long walk between terminals with luggage and check in lines can be long. Be very alert as to the time, and if if the time is getting tight don't be afraid to get the attention of the desk agents etc. and make it very clear that you need to check in very soon.
Otherwise, if you have a connection on the same ticket, your luggage will be checked straight through, so there should be no issues. In that case, you will also likely be taking the 'connection' bus from terminal to terminal, which saves the walk.
Kate
Scotland Thu 10/05/2006
Florence & Venice - which airport?
My husband and I are going to Tuscany and Venice and I'm not sure which airport we should fly into: Milan or Florence.
We are renting an agritourismo in Tuscany for a week. We'll rent a car for that portion of the trip. We'll return the car and take the train to Venice. After Venice we'll take a train back to whatever city we flew into.
I'm not sure which makes the most sense: 1) Fly into Milan, train to Florence, pick up and drop off car in Florence, train to Venice, train to Milan, fly home. 2) Fly into Florence (more expensive, more stops than Milan), pick up and drop off car in Florence, train to Venice, train to Florence, fly home.
Any opinions one way or the other?
Thanks,
Sue
Sue Mildrum <email>
Bedford, MA USA Thu 10/05/2006
From Eurostar to Heathrow
The map of the London Underground can be found at www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/pdfdocs/colourmap.pdf
USA Thu 10/05/2006
save money in UK
Read about this website thru Rick's book. A lot of great attractions like Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's, Tower of London, etc. offer 2 for the price of 1. Will definitely save us a lot!!
www.london2for1.com
USA Thu 10/05/2006
Re: Getting from Eurostar to Heathrow
A correction to Colin's post. The Piccadilly Line does not go to Embankment. Take the Bakerloo Line from Waterloo to Piccadilly Circus and the Piccadilly Line from there to Heathrow.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 10/05/2006
Credit Card & ATM fee - not that big
In response to this much debated topic ... I just returned from Germany and found that with credit cards - I got a much better exchange rate (like 1.26-1.28 vs 1.33+) so while a few % points may seem high - your still better off.
Re: ATM fees... if you can, use a US bank that has a bank partnership in that country to avoid fees - or else you pay $5 + 1% visa/mc fee. CapOne would be good for that aspect if you have it... or set it up well in advance. But - All in all - when it comes down to it - your spending a lot of money for a trip already so the cost of a fee equal to a beer or soda here and there is really quite small... use the CCs for large purchases and hotels where you can, and take a bit more from ATMs as you need cash. As long as you avoid cash advance from CCs, no-one should have any problem with a few convenience fees! ...Just my 2 cents (of fees! :p )
TMB
Newport Beach, CA USA Thu 10/05/2006
Getting from Eurostar to Heathrow.
Getting from 'Eurostar'(Waterloo Station.) to Heathrow is very easy.
Follow the crowd from the Eurostar platform up into the mainline station, and once up there look for the 'Underground'. Upon entering the underground entrance look for the ticket counter, and purchase a 'one-way' ticket to 'Heathrow. (4 GBP's).
After obtaining your ticket, catch the 'Northern'(BLACK) line underground train who destination is either 'High Barnet or Mill Hill East. Get on that train, then get off at the next stop..'Embankment'. Change trains there and get on the 'Picadilly' line heading West to Heathrow.
Note!! the train stops at Terminal 4 first, then proceeds to Terminal 3. Happy travels..
Colin.
Seattle, Wash USA Thu 10/05/2006
Eurostar - Gare Nord Taxis
Be careful of the taxis at Gare Nord. We were approached at Gare Nord by Taxi Libre - price quoted was 95 Euros to Rue Cler.We knew this could not be right. Make sure you get Taxi Parisien (curbside outside of the Gare Nord) - price is 15 Euros - including tip.
Franny
Seattle, Wa USA Thu 10/05/2006
Need cell phone in Italy
Lori -- your earliest solution though not the cheapest would be to contact your local cell provider and set up your phone to work in Europe. That way your number is available for incoming calls. Could run as much as a dollar a minute. While in Italy purchase a phone card for calls back to home. Last May we purchased a 30 minute card for 5 Euro or something around that.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Thu 10/05/2006
Re: Credit Cards
Capital One does not charge a foreign transaction fee for using its credit cards.
Did the Wells Fargo representative tell you that there is a flat $5 charge each time you make an ATM withdrawal overseas?
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 10/04/2006
Credit Cards
I just called Wells Fargo Bank and they confirmed a 3% fee on purchases outside of the US (wow!) with their credit and debit cards. I remember reading there was a credit card company that hadn't started doing that yet. If anyone knows of one, please let me know on this site or my personal email address
Tom <email>
Sacramento, Ca USA Wed 10/04/2006
Paris - Ooh La La!
We just got back from Paris - found your book most helpful. We disagree about purchasing a Museum Pass. We are both Senior Citizens and the thought of more than one museum a day was daunting. So we visited the Louvre on Wed. evening - 6.0 p.m. - discounted. Also took the trip to Versailles - complete package 21.15 Euros each - including RER train, admission to all parts of the Palace and audio. We toured the gardens first - at noon - then the rest of the palace. No long lines. We also recommend the daytime Bateaux-Mouches boat tour up the Seine - 4 Euros for Seniors - a bargain.
Franny <email>
Seattle, Wa. USA Wed 10/04/2006
Need cell phone in Italy
We will be going on the 10 Day Venice, Florence and Rome tour in a few weeks. Our two children 5 and 8 will be staying home with Grandma. For piece of mind I will need to be able to call them. Confused on all the info on cell phones. Has anyone rented or bought one for Italy? I would like to have one before I leave so I can leave the kids a phone number. Thanks for your advice.
Lori A
Bolingbrook, IL USA Wed 10/04/2006
London's Heathrow-connection time
All connecting passengers, even before the terror threats, have to go through another security screening; so its routine. Thus the 1 hour 55 minute connection time already has the security check built into it. As long as your inbound flight doesn't arrive late you'll make your connecting flight.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Wed 10/04/2006
Re: Space Saver Bags
Target also carries space saver bags near their luggage. I also found Coleman bags similar in KMart. They were over by the sporting goods area.
Kelly
Arnold, MO USA Wed 10/04/2006
London's Heathrow-connection time
I bought tickets to Europe back in the Spring before the big bomb scare in London. I'm connecting at London's Heathrow airport. I arrive in Terminal #3 and then depart 1 hour and 55 minutes later from Terminal #1. Back in the Spring British Air said an 1 hour and 55 minutes was plenty of time. Now, with the added security (I understand that I will have to go through security again when I change terminals), it may be a difficult connection. The next flight to where I'm going is not until the next day on British Air (only 1 flight per day). Has anyone made a connection like this at Heathrow and can you share any tips? Click on email address below.
James <email>
Marion, AR USA Wed 10/04/2006
Coding Credit Cards
Andy is correct. Put the first group numbers at the end is not very deceptive. Anyone who works with cc know that the first number indicates type of card. A much better approach is to use alpha substitution code. For example, Charleston, is ten letter word with no repeat letters. Assign 1,2,3...0 to C,h,a.....n . The number 2078 become hnst. Easy to remember, easy to code, and very difficult to break. There are many similar words that work.
Frank P.
USA Wed 10/04/2006
RE: Safety
Quote: "...we "coded" our credit card numbers by putting the first 4 numbers at the end."
FYI- This is a good idea, but you might want to devise a different "code" as the first 6 numbers of credit cards are common/group numbers. For example the first number denotes a MasterCard (5) or Visa (4), after that they can go by region, promotion, etc. Maybe not every thief would know this, but if they are into identity theft, they probably will.
Andy
USA Wed 10/04/2006
Safety
In addition to copying down credit card info (and their emergency cancellation numbers) we "coded" our credit card numbers by putting the first 4 numbers at the end. If a thief stole our bags with our emergency info, we wouldn't
want to give them all of our (readily useable)personal information!
USA Wed 10/04/2006
Garmish New Years
We are in search of a place to stay in Garmisch or Oberammergau over New Years. Our usual place has imposed a six night minimum, and we only want to stay 3 or 4 days. Any ideas? Thank you!
Carrie Roe
Pacific Grove, CA USA Wed 10/04/2006
A Few Suggestions
I always make copies of the information page of my passport and the front and back of all of my credit cards and debit cards. I also make a copy of my drivers license and birth cert. I put that somewhere in the bottom of my bag or leave it locked into my hotel safe or in an envelope at the front desk marked confidentail with my name on it. In case it gets any of the above items get lost. Then I carry a moneybelt. I did by a bag from Magellan last year that has interior wires in it so that they cannot be cut off of you or the fabric cannot be cut. London is not as safe as people may think it is, there is a lot of crime there especially in areas like Picadilly Circus, and Notting Hill. Heroin addiction is an epdemic there so petty theft is rampent. But we also must consider that we all come from a country with the highest crime rate in the world. So, we cannot get too nutty about this. Do not let paranoia ruin your fun. Be safe and go with your instincts. If you are a woman traveling alone, do not tell everyone that you are. I live in New York City one of the most crime ridden cities in the USA and nothing has happened to me here, so I do not worry about things overseas. Happy travels.
Kim
New York, NY USA Wed 10/04/2006
Re:moneybelts
Thanks for the input re moneybelts. I've ordered 2--1 for me and 1 for my husband. It's just not worth risking it!! Now if only we can have bright, sunny days during our stay..... :)
NC
USA Wed 10/04/2006
Be Careful in Rome
I agree with Kate from Scotland - not every city in Europe has the same problem with pickpockets- I don't worry about my purse more in London than I do at home in Atlanta. Rome is another story - have had 2 pickpocket attempts (both foiled). The train to and from the airport is bad as is the bus to St. Peter's. Being extra vigilant on all public transportation and when you are carrying your luggage is a good idea. You don't have to worry nearly so much when you are in the smaller Italian cities and I will still carry a purse (instead of moneybelt) the next time I visit Rome.
Karen
USA Wed 10/04/2006
Passport Check
I've been in England, France, and Italy in the past few weeks. Only in Italy did they ask for my passport in the hotel.
Swan
USA Wed 10/04/2006
self catered rentals in paris
has anyone had any experience with holidayrentals.com? we have an upcoming trip to paris using their apartment rental service. any comments would be great.
gloria <email>
carmichael, ca USA Tue 10/03/2006
Ditto!
We plan and scrimp and save for these European trips- most of us can't go all the time. Worn correctly (and you shouldn't be reaching into it during your moving about time anyway), your passport, license, paper copy of plane ticket, cash/credit cards and 3X5 card with emergency contact info will hardly be felt beneath your clothes. The posters who count on "being aware of their surroundings" or "keeping one hand firmly over the bag" aren't taking into account the skill and/or element of surprise that makes the thief able to take your stuff. Once you are jostled or startled in a way you are not prepared for, do you really want to spend some of your precious vacation frantically trying to get replacement documents? If hotels don't have a room safe, I often ask the desk clerk if I can put my money belt in their safe for the day- sometimes you get lucky and get a moneybeltless day! Then I get it back at night. Luck will only get you so far.
Karen
USA Tue 10/03/2006
Pockets not safe!!
NC, My husband,foolishly took a money clip to Italy, "no one can access My front pocket without me knowing what is going on." It was a nice gold money clip with about $200 in it. Some Italian thief is now enjoying both!! Pockets are not a safe place for anything except maybe a kleenex!! Take changes if you want, but I am not going to!!
USA Tue 10/03/2006
Re: space saver bags
If you don't want to spend a lot of money on space saver bags, you could always use the large zip-loc bags.
They're also good for your toiletries to prevent spillage in the case of a leak.
Brandie
Kansas USA Tue 10/03/2006
Moneybelts and security - anywhere
When I traveled to London, I didn't use a moneybelt, but wore a small purse across the front of my body with my hand resting on it. I was a bit anxious beforehand about security, but felt perfectly safe. I did watch my surroundings and was alert and aware. I am now preparing for Rome and reading all the dire and stern warnings about pickpockets and gypsies. I intend to travel much the way I did to London. I plan to be aware and alert and to use some safeguards (I did buy a Pacsafe camera strap), but I am not going to invest an inordinate amount of time and energy planning and worrying about being unsafe. I believe that it is prudent to plan and travel wisely, but too much worry about these kinds of things can dampen the joy of traveling. I want to travel and live my life differently than that.
Seattle, USA Tue 10/03/2006
Moneybelts in the UK
Pickpockets go after people carrying large amounts of cash and credit cards; foreign tourists fill that criteria. All big cities, everywhere in the world, have picketpockets that traget foreigners. Also, "being aware of your surrounds" isn't going to protect you from an experienced thief. Most are well dressed, polite, and blend into the surroundings. Victims typically don't know they have been robbed until several hours later. Whether your traveling to London or Disneyworld, moneybelts are a must!
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Tue 10/03/2006
My point is that in the UK (and for that matter in places like Scandinavia and Switzerland), the risks are very low and can be made close to nil by taking the same precautions as in the U.S.
Some people are perfectly comfortable with moneybelts etc., but others not so and from my experience, if you take normal precautions and have a proper handbag/backpack, you'll be just fine in places like the UK, Scandinavia, Switzerland, Belgium, France etc.
From personal experience, I have found that cancelling a credit card does not have to be a big hassle from Europe - all of my credit cards have a free number to call from abroad (reversed charges)and the process was the same and took no more time. So I would check for the international contact numbers for you credit card, and note them down, along with the number in a separate location.
Kate
Scotland Tue 10/03/2006
Re: Moneybelts
The poster from "USA" expresses my thoughts exactly. It is not the probability, it's the consequences.
Particularly, protect your credit and ATM cards. Losing money would be unpleasant; losing your means of getting any more would be a disaster.
Use a money belt (or something else that holds your vauluables against your body). A friend met a guy in Italy who had had his money, passport, cards, etc taken from a zippered, velcroed, inside pocket of his jacket.
If pickpockets know where it is, they can get it.
So, don't let everybody see where you keep your valuables. The fewer times you have to access them outside of your hotel room, the better.
<email>
USA Tue 10/03/2006
Re: Eurostar Shuttle
I'm not certain you can even book a shuttle for pickup at a central train station rather than at an airport.
It's a relatively short taxi ride from Gare du Nord to the Rue Cler area. Walk to the taxi rank outside the station and take the first available taxi.
Les Cars Rouges (www.carsrouges.com) and L'OpenTour (www.paris-opentour.com) offer bus tours.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 10/03/2006
Eurostar shuttle
Arriving Eurostar in Paris, am concerned about stairs, luggage weight, etc for older mother. Can someone suggest a shuttle service or reliable taxi to our hotel. will be staying near Rue Cler. Also, a good tour company for highlights on coach, etc. thanks all
Agnes
NC USA Tue 10/03/2006
Moneybelts
It's true, you could be pickpocketed at home in America. However, if my wallet is stolen while I'm at home, it's an annoying inconvenience. But while on vacation, especially in a different country, it's a CRISIS! Getting a replacement passport and cancelling credit cards in a foreign country can be a huge ordeal. Having an expensive trip you've planned for maybe all of your life ruined because you don't want to be bothered by taking a few more precautions than you do at home seems foolish. It depends on how much you're willing to risk (kind of life wearing seatbelts...what are the chances of an accident...)
USA Tue 10/03/2006
Moneybelts in the UK
I live in Scotland, and have been down to London on several occasions, and think there's no reason to have a moneybelt. As long as your wallet is secured in a zippered purse/bag or the like, you are wise to your surroundings and don't leave it where someone can reach it at restaurants, you're no more likely to be pickpocketed that in any city in the US.
Kate
Scotland Tue 10/03/2006
They will often ask for your passport, or at least the passport of one person in your group, as they need to record the number, but I've never had them keep it for any length of time. I think it is done in some countries as they need to register with the police or something similar and they can't always do it right away.
I think it would be a good idea to have your passport handy when you check in and also to have several copies of first page with you.
Kate
Scotland Tue 10/03/2006
I am looking to buy some space saver bags to be able to take only carry-on on our upcoming european vacation. Any recommendations on a source? It seems that Rick's might be a little pricey.
USA Tue 10/03/2006
going to England soon. Have seen on some travel shows that one must give up one's passport when checking in at hotels. This show was about Paris. Is this the case in England as well?
USA Tue 10/03/2006
Are moneybelts really essential for traveling to UK? I hear London has notorious pickpockets. Also, does each person need to carry their own? I was planning on carrying the moneybelt w/ all our passports, extra $, and just have my husband put his wallet in his front pocket for security.
NC
USA Tue 10/03/2006
Nancy Charming Hotel Paris
I second Tom's comments about the Hotel du Champ de Mars. We stayed there in 2000; thought it was lovely, well-located, and the front desk staff were nice. Also, got a Christmas card from them that year!
Teresa
Seattle, USA Tue 10/03/2006
Nancy Charming Hotel Paris
Nancy: We like the Champ de Mars. Around 78 Euros per night for double, good location, very charming, just off Rue Cler. Check it out for yourself at: www.hotel-du-champ-de-mars.com.
Tom
USA Tue 10/03/2006
Mallorca bus transportation
I am arriving at Palma de Majorca airport at 6 pm on Sat - 10/7. I need to travel to Pollenca. I really don't want to spend 60 E++ on a cab since I will be alone and have no one to share the cost. The bus looks really reasonably priced but I am not sure that I am reading the bus schedule correctly. I see that I should take bus # 1 from the airport Placa d"Espanya, then the TIb bus IB-22 to Pollensa. Is that correct? Do these busses run late enough that I can get to Pollensa reliably by bus if my plane does not arrive at the airport until 6 pm? Any other bus options?
Where do I find bus # 1 at the aiport, and where do I find bus IB 22 when I get to Placa de Espanya? Any idea of what the cost is? Thanks.
Nancy <email>
San Francisco Bay Area, CA USA Tue 10/03/2006
Dresden Pension?
I am looking for an inexpensive "Rick style" small pension or B&B in Dresden, Germany. Any suggestions? I am traveling in January.
Tom <email>
Sacramento, Ca USA Tue 10/03/2006
Sue, I haven't booked package trips with Air France but I have booked package trips thru British Airways and it was fine, no problems. The hotels they offer are usually budget, basic hotels but were fine. They usually offer you a choice of hotel levels with different costs. I've booked flights on line with Air France, I have one coming up in 2 weeks, and have never had a problem.
NYC, USA Tue 10/03/2006
Paris hotel
Does anyone know of a cheap hotel with some charm (not a new or chain hotel) in Paris.
Nancy
USA Tue 10/03/2006
Packing/Jennifer
It's always a dilema about what to take or not take. 3 weeks is a long time and even though others might not see you wear the same clothes over and over, you will appreciate a little variety, depending on if you want to go with 2 suitcases or just one. I was glad I took 2--a large one and a small one, as neither was completely full and I was able to bring back lots of souvenirs without any trouble, but then I only moved twice and had 3 lodgings. It depends on how much you will be moving about--2 suitcase could be difficult under some circumstances.
I was in Spain/Portugal this time last year and I would definitely recommend one set of shorts and/or capri pants,or gouchos, as another suggested....you'll probably want to walk on the beaches and it will still be very nice weather there. I just returned from 3 weeks in England and Belgium...it was unseasonably hot and I had packed for cooler weather. I only took one set of shorts and wish I had taken another and left one of the 3 jeans at home. (I actually picked up a pair of parachute pants at a second hand store which were wonderful.)I also had taken a pair of tights, which take up little room but would provide warmth under jeans ....think of things that can be worn individually or layered for warmth, if needed. I was in the same hotel for a week in London and was able to wash out my clothes in the sink and air dry, then with friends who had washer/dryer but under different circumstances it would have been difficult to make it work for 3 weeks without clothes becoming rank. (A feminine hygiene tip: use mini-pads to keep pants fresher longer.) I also took a rain jacket and ended up using the 99cent rain ponco from Walmart on the one day it rained...covered me and my head AND my backpack.
Ultimately, you will learn something from every trip you take and eventually you will have it perfected. In the mean while, just go with what feels right....happy travels!
p.s. My daughter and I decided at the last minute to visit the Algarve coast in Portugal and it was the highlight of our trip.
Susan <email>
Nashville , TN USA Mon 10/02/2006
Italian nun.
visiting a few convents in upcoming italy trip;what do you call a nun in italian???sorella???helpa
john langelier <email>
philadelphia, pa USA Mon 10/02/2006
Air France
Has anyone booked any vacation packages through Air France? Like air and hotel package? If so, what has your experience been? Worthwhile? Problems? Would appreciate any feedback! Thanks
Sue
Sue
Ohio USA Mon 10/02/2006
Re: S-W and Länder passes
BTW, unlike rail passes, which are valid in metro areas only on the S-bahns, not the U-bahn, trams, and buses, the Schönes-Wochenende and Länder passes are usually valid for on conveyances in the metro districts (Verkehrsverbünde).
<email>
USA Mon 10/02/2006
Re: Rail passes in Germany
TMB, I hope you also checked out the possibility of using the Schönes-Wochenende and Länder passes. If usable, at €18 - €30 per day for up to five people, they can be a much better deal than using a day of a rail pass.
<email>
USA Mon 10/02/2006
German Rail Pass
I can also confirm - just got back from Germany and used the Flexi-pass for a whole week daily on every kind of train S, IC, RB, RE etc... some conductors marked/stamped over the day marked, others just checked and handed back. Some wanted the passport too - so keep it handy. Worked great - the only way to go (unless youre only doing a quick Airport run for 3-4Euros that day (just grab a ticket off the machine if you can save 20-Euros that day!)
TMB
Newport Beach, CA USA Mon 10/02/2006
Vienna-Bratislava Airport
Eurolines has direct buses from the Erdberg U3 terminal to the Bratislava airport. You can find info at www.eurolines.at
Jeff
USA Mon 10/02/2006
Fly-by-Bus Florence
Thanks, Tom. I won't stress about it! :-)
Teresa
Seattle, USA Mon 10/02/2006
Fly-by-bus in Florence
Teresa: Have taken the bus both ways in Florence. Is very easy and for us the bus was not full in either direction. Is very inexpensive and a short ride. Not more than 20 minutes even with traffic. Takes you to center of town near train station.
Tom
USA Mon 10/02/2006
railpasses and german s-bahn
I just returned from 2 weeks of travel. I used my German flexpass on the Munich S-bahn and it was accepted by the inspectors who were checking tickets. Just so you know, they really do issue huge fines for people caught without the proper ticket. I saw a couple get fined 40 euros each because they purchased tickets from the machine that were not valid in the airport zone.
Greta
Indianapolis, IN USA Sun 10/01/2006
Staying in Mainz
We are flying in and out of Frankfurt at the end of October. We thought we would spend the last night or two in Mainz since it would be close to the airport. Anyone have a suggestion for a B&B or a pension? Anywhere else close to the airport besides Mainz?
Dennis <email>
Rochester, MN USA Sun 10/01/2006
June vs. July tours
I'd choose June if those were my only two options...the earlier the better if you have a choice. Unless there's a heat wave (like Meg said - it happens!) you'll be okay except maybe in Italy. Of the four RS hotels on a July tour a few years ago: Rome had awesome AC (Oceania); Florence had acceptable AC in the evening and night, not available in they daytime(but I can't remember the name of the hotel); Venice we really suffered BADLY with the heat (but they don't use that hotel anymore); and Vernazza.....well, hike all day drink a lot of wine at dinner, climb the gazillion steps to the hotel, sleep with your balcony doors open and you won't even notice! The next time we did the tour, we went in Sept. The bus will not be a problem at all - they use fabulous modern Belgian buses with all the amenities including AC and a sound system. Have fun - no matter which month you choose, you will enjoy it!
Renee
CO USA Sun 10/01/2006
RE: Rail Passes on the S-Bahn trains
Funny question, since I once called Rail Europe and asked that same question and was told the passes are not valid on the German S-bahn. But they are!
Prove it to yourself. Go to the Eurail website, www.eurail.com, and click on "bonuses", then on "Eurail bonuses per Eurail country", then on "Germany". Midway down the page, under the pictures, it says, "Free transport on S-Bahn."
BTW, according to elsewhere on the site, Eurail -tickets- no longer exist.
<email>
USA Sun 10/01/2006
Rail Passes on the S-Bahn trains
Can anyone tell me if a Eurail pass covers the S-Bahn trains in Germany? I've heard two different answers can anyone help?
Mike
Royal Oak, MI USA Sun 10/01/2006
summer tours/AC
We went to Europe once in early June--never again! Germany, the Czech Republic, France, England, even Scotland, all were hot and humid. As a coastal Californian I can't cope with humid heat or hot nights, and stone or brick buildings don't "breath" the way our wood houses do. (Right, we're very spoiled.) A couple of hotels claimed to have AC but in practice there was just a vent that blew out tepid air. The nights were the worst because it never cooled down, especially in our airless rooms. Having said all this, someone from another part of the US might find all this less of a shock--though you probably have AC!
Meg Rosenfeld <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Sun 10/01/2006
Questions about the ETBD 21 Day tour
We are considering the 21 day ETBD tour, and are weighing going in June vs. July.
I'm just curious from other travelers, was not having A/C in some (or all?!) of the hotels an issue if u traveled in Jun/Jul? Also, was your bus any different, say from our charter buses here in the US? (Just wondering if that's an issue as well with the temps!)
Ciao!
Aquarius11 <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Sun 10/01/2006
Florence Airport
We spent three hours there waiting for my daughter last summer and it is VERY small and very safe. There is a place to wait inside with even a little coffee bar and helpful staff in the information booth. It is very close to Florence- it seems like you could try for the bus option and if it didn't work then do the taxi- but waiting another half an hour there would be no problem!
USA Sun 10/01/2006
Seine River Tour/Dinner/Lido
Which Seine river tour would be best for a lovely evening - not tooooo expensive with dinner & Lido. Or forget it and do during the daylight on a cheapo
Agnes
NC USA Sun 10/01/2006
Fly-by-Bus in Florence
Does anyone have experience with the Fly-by-Bus service from Vespucci to central Florence? It's certainly cheaper than a taxi, but it appears to run only every 30 mins., and the word "bus" (as opposed to "train") has me a little nervous: it seems like it would fill up quickly and you would wind up sitting at the airport for a long time waiting for the next bus and hoping it has available seats.
I suppose I could spring for a taxi but, not being from a taxi-centric city, I'm really not used to them -- let alone taking one in an unfamiliar city (esp. as a female traveling solo). Any suggestions/reassurances/warnings?
Teresa
Seattle, USA Sun 10/01/2006
Bratislava Airport
Next month, I will be traveling from Vienna to Bratislava by bus (arriving at the Novy Most bus terminal), and then flying from Bratislava to London. What is the best way to get from the bus terminal to the airport?
Zena <email>
Vienna, Austria Sun 10/01/2006
Florence airport
Kristin, you don't need an airport hotel-- the airport is just a few minutes' taxi ride to the center of town (2 1/2 miles?); stay in Florence.
NYC Sun 10/01/2006
Number of Pants
It's obviously not an issue of "hauling" 3 pairs of pants since hopefully you have one on. Two pairs of pants in your bag won't make any difference in weight but only having one spare pair WILL make a difference to your trip if you waste a day trying to find something suitable to replace a damaged pair. While you may never have an accident, why chance missing something great to spend an unplanned day shopping? European sizes are different as are brands and I don't want to spend time searching out clothing and trying it on to avoid carrying an extra 8 oz. or so. Also, this means not having to do laundry as often.
light packer
USA Sun 10/01/2006
Waterloo to Heathrow
Mary~~you could take a taxi from Waterloo to Eartls Court tube station.
From Earls Court you could go straight to Heathrow, 35 minute ride and its around 4 British Pounds.
Ohio USA Sun 10/01/2006
Heathrow to London
At Heathrow Airport if you go to terminal 1-2-3 station you can get the Piccadilly Line which would take you to Earls Court for aroun 4 British Pounds.
Its a 35 minute ride.
USA Sun 10/01/2006
Florence airport hotel?
We have an early morning flight out of the Amerigo Vespucci Airport. Does anyone know of a decent airport hotel to stay in?
Kristin
Houston, TX USA Sun 10/01/2006
Queen Elizabeth 2
Has anyone sailed on the Queen Elizabeth cruise ship within the last two years since the launching of the Queen Mary 2 ? Just wondering if the Queen Elizabeth is now the forgotten child or if she is still the Grand Dame of the sea. Will be sailing on the QE2 in a couple of weeks from Southampton..have not been on her since 2001. We are staying in a Queens Grille suit and just wanted to know if the same impeccable service and grandeur is still there. Would be great to speak with any fellow Queens Grille travelers..Much thanks
FA <email>
Rockaway, NJ USA Sun 10/01/2006
RE: Getting to Heathrow from London Underground
Fastest and simplest aren't always the same thing :), but in this case, it's probably the fastest, and simplest, for you to catch a train at Waterloo bound for Heathrow. There are several each hour, and the travel time is about an hour. Some are direct, some require one change. The single fare is about 17.50 pounds. You can take the Bakerloo line to Paddington station, a short connecting walk, then the Heathrow Express to the airport....about 45 minutes at a cost of about 16.50 pounds. A bit more hassle, but far cheaper, is to take the tube all the way to Heathrow. Take the Bakerloo line to Piccadilly Circus, and take the Piccadilly line all the way to Heathrow. About 1:10, for 4 pounds. The big question, I think, is how much luggage do you have ;)
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 10/01/2006
Waterloo to Heathrow
You can download the tube map here - www.bbc.co.uk/.../travel/downloads/tube_map.gif
Jeff
USA Sun 10/01/2006
RE: Warm Coat for Women
Here is the BEST coat u will ever own! It's by Land's End. Go here:
http://landsend.com/cd/fp/prod/0,,1_2_69659_70185_148651_126478_5:view=59,00.html?CM_MERCH=PAGE_70185&sid=4559131799577110910
I moved from the south to PA 2 years ago, so I wanted something REALLY warm since I'm cold natured anyway! A friend recommended this coat to me & it is a lifesaver! (Other sites have similar ones, but Land's End had the cheapest one in petite.)
Here are the advantages - especially when traveling...It is SUPER light. You will feel like you're wearing a comforter!! :) It also covers up your butt, which comes in handy in a cold & windy climate. It will "squish" up to a tiny size, so u could get it into a carry on easily! Last but definitely not least, it is the warmest thing you'll ever put on (& considering how light it is, u can't go wrong!). I actually get HOT now in the winters here in the northeast!!!
Aquarius11 <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Sun 10/01/2006
Getting to Heathrow from London Underground
I am traveling to Heathrow International from Paris. I arrive in Waterloo around 8:30 AM (London time). I want to know the fastest and simplest route from Waterloo to Heathrow using the underground and/or national rail.
thanks!
Mary
Paris, France Sun 10/01/2006