Travelers' Helpline: November 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.
Re: Ferry connections in Dodecanese
Rex, If you had included more detail about your trip including time of year and overall itinerary it would be easier to integrate advice into it. But with what you gave, the common island port would be Samos. Samos also has an airport that can be reached from many European cities. The boats to Kusadasi leave from the port of Vathy (also called Samos town, the main city). A short bus ride away is the town of Pythagorio where the boats (Flying Dolphin hydrofoils) leave for Patmos. I did this trip as part of a bigger Greek Island Hopping adventure in September. I based in Vathy and liked that town a lot. The trip to Turkey costs around 50 Euro and there are tons of travel agencies to buy from. In September there was lots of room on the boat with no need to buy more than a day ahead. Same goes for the boat to Patmos. I have traveled from Greece to Kusadasi, Bodrum, Marmaris, and Istanbul and paid a different fee every time. If it is just a day trip there is a different procedure/price than if you are staying longer (visa stamp for 15 Euro). The travel agencies are prolific on all Greek Islands and they will happily guide you through all questions. Unless you are traveling during the busy, crazy months of July and August you don't need to be concerned about buying tickets ahead of time before you arrive. In fact, that can detract from the magic of island hopping unless you really need to lock into some set itinerary.
Richard
Bellingham, WA USA Thu 11/30/2006
Re: Ferry connections in Dodecanese
We used Paleologos Shipping and Travel (www.ferries.gr) for researching our Greek ferry travels. They sell tickets for a wide variety of ferry lines and have a great Orbitz-like search tool. We bought several tickets from them and got great service. They even called my wife's cell phone, from Greece, because there was a mixup as to how we were going to pick up our tickets.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Thu 11/30/2006
Ferry connections in Dodecanese - and thanks
If you're going to Greece www.greektravel.com is a great place to start. Frequent ferries run from Samos to Kusadasi, Kos to Bodrum and Rhodes to Marmaris, less often from Lesvos to Avalik. Getting a ferry from Piraeus to Patmos (see www.bluestarferries.com) and Patmos to Samos shouldn't be a problem.
You need a visa to enter Turkey, which you can buy at your arrival port. I think it cost me 15 euros in Bodrum this spring. I would take either an overnight ferry to Patmos, or look into a cheap flight with Aegean Air. Buy your ticket to Samos when you get to Patmos.
Re: Who will go - thanks for the support!
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Thu 11/30/2006
OUCH!
I always follow the exchange rates for travel. www.xe.com I leave on Weds. for London. Our dollar is literally worth half as much as 1 British Pound Sterling. OUCH! Good thing this is a short trip because it is going to be an expensive one.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Thu 11/30/2006
Not Good News
The British pound just hit a fourteen year high against the dollar ($1.95). And the forecast for a continuing deline against the pound is pretty good.
Frank P., <email>
Centennial, CO USA Thu 11/30/2006
Ferry connections in Dodecanese
We're planning a major tour, and for part would like to travel by ferry from Piraeus to see Patmos and also Kusadasi. Anybody know how to make connections that would allow visits to both? Even if we had to find a common nearby port. Also, is it true you have to pay a fee to enter Turkey?
Rex
Phx, AZ USA Thu 11/30/2006
Speaking English
Upset that a railway clerk in Gyor, Hungary, did not speak English, anonymous writes: "if they dont even make an effort to speak a little english who will go there."
Who will go there? People willing to use sign language, phrase books and pen and paper to communicate. Think Hungary is bad? Try rural China, where Mandarin is a second language and everything is written in characters.
Who will go there? People who celebrate diversity. People who love the fact that the French still speak French and the Italians still speak Italian. People who are excited that the coffee in Turkey isn't like the coffee in Austria. People who are happy they can tell which part of Europe they're traveling through by looking at the church spires.
Who will go there? People willing to make an effort to get off the beaten path. People who would rather struggle with the language in a town with just a few tourists, instead of fighting the crowds in somewhere like over-visited Prague. People who prefer to visit places that McDonalds and Starbucks have yet to reach.
Who will go there? People who don't suffer from a sense of entitlement, who don't feel they are doing a town a favor by visiting it. People who recognize that an English-speaking railway clerk is a bonus, not a right. The USA gets nearly 4 million visitors a year from Japan, but how many Amtrak clerks do you think speak Japanese? Or any second language, other than perhaps Spanish? I noticed that in Eastern Europe people who speak a second language often speak German, not English, maybe they get more tourists from Germany than from English-speaking countries.
If you won't go somewhere unless you can count on everyone you deal with speaking English, your world will be pretty small. But that leaves all the more for the rest of us. And has it occurred to you that the railway clerk may actually not care whether you visit her town or not? From the look of Hungarian trains she already has plenty of customers.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Thu 11/30/2006
Italy Train tickets - agree
I agree - wait until you're there to buy train tickets. Last year, we walked right up to kiosk machines or even ticket counters and bought tickets with no problems. In one case, we were only 15 minutes before the train arrived and still got great seats.
Kathy
VA USA Thu 11/30/2006
Italy train tickets
I agree, wait and buy your train tickets there. They have kiosks like ATM machines at all the train stations where you touch a few buttons to select your cities and times and then insert cash or a credit card and your ticket is dispensed immediately. Train travel in Italy is very frequent and cheap. (see their website www.trenitalia.com)
Note if you are a first timer, when looking for your trains the Bin# or Binary# = the track number where you will board your train.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Thu 11/30/2006
Train travel in Italy
We always just bought our tickets the night before the trip.
Went to the automatic/credit card kiosks and purchased what we needed...if it was a special train, like the Euro Star from Florence to Venice, we went to the ticket counter - again, the day before the trip.
That way we were not hurried, had tickets in hand, and could find the correct track with no worries!
It's much cheaper and cost effective to buy point to point, don't waste your money on a rail pass in Italy.
ELK
WI USA Wed 11/29/2006
Train travel Italy
I will be travelling in Italy this April. Specifically Rome to Venice then Florence and back to Rome. I don't know if I need a railpass or if I should buy my tickets when I get there. I do know that the trains I will be travelling on require reservations. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Kathryn <email>
San Antonio, TX USA Wed 11/29/2006
travel prague, vienna
will be travelling with a 12 yr old granddaughter in JUne to Amsterdam; then flying to Prague, vienna and salzburg. We have never been to the last three, and would appreciate any comments on where to stay with a child,or even fun places to eat.
Linda <email>
surprise, az USA Wed 11/29/2006
Travel in Germany in December
"Travel in Germany in December"
I don't know what you mean by going to center Munich. You have to go to the main train station in Munich (sorry I can't help with that, I don't know how far from the airport is or if you can take a train to the station)
About your ship cruise: it's very cold in winter time in Europe, like in Northern US, and it's ven worse on a ship, because of the speed ofthe ship and wind. I went in Paris on seine by fairyboat and it was very windy and cold.It was in december.
Bea <email>
Cleveland, OH USA Wed 11/29/2006
Teen favorites in England
Wendy - I asked my 17 year old son which place he'd recommend. He first said Greece because he hasn't been there and is at the top of his list. I asked him again - if it were your FIRST trip to Europe which would you suggest. He then changed his mind to England "as long as you get outside of London". There was SO much for us to do in England and so much of it is familiar in all the good ways - they already know a lot about English history (especially as pre-US history) that the thought of being in places where Cromwell, Henry VIII, etc. actually were was pretty cool. Not to mention all the films & literature - we were in Lyme Regis and Bath (Jane Austen), Stratford upon Avon (Shakespeare of course), Canterbury (Canterbury Tales, murder of Thomas Beckett) and the beach where Alice (in Wonderland) and her family actually vacationed. Add in Harry Potter, Robin Hood, Peter Rabbit and Winnie the Pooh and you've covered all the childhood favorites!
Karen (again)
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 11/29/2006
trains
just came back from europe and first class on trains was the best money ive ever spent. if travelling on short trips i guess second class is okay. but if you have a first class europass stick to first class and you will be glad you did.
fred
mon, que Wed 11/29/2006
Munich to Nuernberg
The high speed rail connections were some of the direct ICE connections shown on the Bahn schedule. They leave the München Hbf every two hours at 10 past (7:10, 9:10, 11:10, etc) and make the trip in 1:18. Unfortunately, they don't not stop at the airport on the way. The only way to catch them is a 44 minute S-Bahn ride into town. With connection times the total trip takes 2:17 (about 2-1/2 hours). The fare for the S-Bahn and the high speed ICE is €47 per person.
In between the high speed trains are several slower (1:45) ICE connections that still get you there earlier.
<email>
USA Wed 11/29/2006
RE: late may up in the alps
Just because some hotels and some restaurants will be closed doesn't mean that ALL hotels and ALL restaurants will be closed. Personally, I don't think a closed restaurant or hotel or trinket would ruin my trip to Muerren because I don't go there to shop or to experience fine dining.
However, I've been there in late May and very early June, and there was enough going on to keep me happy. After all, there are REAL residents who live in these towns...if everything were closed the residents would have a very difficult time obtaining their needed supplies.
The sheer beauty of the place is what draws most people - not the prospect of shopping or eating.
Tim
USA Wed 11/29/2006
Munich to Nuernberg
Over the summer they opened a high speed rail link between Nuremberg and Munich, so travel time between those two cities is now about 1 hour 15 minutes. I spent a week in Nuremberg for the World Cup and had a blast. It's a great city!
Michael Schneider <email>
NY USA Wed 11/29/2006
Germany in December
You can get schedules from the Bahn website, www.bahn.de (Click "English" on far left side). Enter "Munich airport" for from: station, "Nuernberg Hbf" for To: station, time and date in European format.
If you keep the default Means of Transport as "standard search" you will find one or two connections per hour via the Munich Hbf. Take any S-Bahn to the Hauptbahnhof, direct ICE from there. Takes about 2-1/2 hours. Fare is €47 per person.
One the other hand, if you change Means of transport to "only local transport", you will find connections by regional bus 635 to Freising Bahnhof, then regional train(s) from there to Nürnberg. These trips take 2:41 to 3:41 depending on if you change in Regensburg. Going this way you can make the entire trip for €18 (Bayern Ticket Single) or €25 (Bayern Ticket) for up to five people. You can purchase the Bayern Ticket from the DB or MVV ticket automats in the airport or, for an extra €2, from the ticket counter.
Note: all fare and Ticket prices of the Bahn are subject to change on December 10, 2006.
<email>
USA Wed 11/29/2006
Travel with teens
Wendy, We took our teenagers (16,13,11) to Greece and Crete and they absolutely loved it. We were there in July and since it is a dry heat and there is almost always a breeze, it was not too hot. In Crete, we hiked the Samaria Gorge, and visited many ruins such as Knosses. The museum and Acropolis in Athens were favorites of theirs. We took a overnight ferry from Athens to Crete and they really enjoyed that also. They had a blast on the beaches and loved the food. I would vote for Greece. We had no language problem at all and it was less expensive than anywhere else we went.
USA Wed 11/29/2006
Travel in Germany in December
We will be arriving at the Munich airport December 13 and wish to travel on by train to Nurnberg. How easy is that? Do we go into central Munich and then back out to Nurnberg? Any ideas about train fares for this brief journey?
We will be traveling down the Danube by ship to Vienna. We don't know what to expect. Can anyone share experiences about that kind of trip in December?
Lawrence Downing <email>
Rochester, Minnes USA Wed 11/29/2006
late may up in the alps
hi my wife and i are planning our 10th trip in ten years using our rick steves guides and we are looking at Interlaken up to Murren in late may like around 22,23 time frame for a day or so. We 've been there in Aug and Sept and it was stunning but reading the guidebooks it sounds like that time of year is so quiet to be almost not worth it with restaurants and attractions closed? any insights u can share?
Des <email>
Hoboken, NJ USA Wed 11/29/2006
Re: Parents traveling with teens
Wendy - I would suggest the British Isles over Greece, for several reasons.
First, for your first time out of the US, if you can avoid a language barrier, your travels will be easier. Second, Greece can be hot and crowded during the summer. Second, while Greece has some very nice churches, I would have to vote for Britain when it comes to castles and cathedrals. Britain is heaven for a castle fan. Third, flying to London is almost guaranteed to be cheaper than flying to Greece. From what I've found, to get to Athens, you either fly from New York to Athens on Olympic Air or you fly to a European city (London, Paris, Frankfurt, etc.), and then on to Athens.
While the dollar's poor exchange rate to the British Pound will hurt your budget, you should be able to find some very reasonably priced B&Bs in the UK once you get out of London, saving you some dollars. Basically, if you don't spend too much time in London, your budget won't be strained too badly.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Wed 11/29/2006
Parents traveling with teens on a budget
Unless you're fixed on Greece or the UK - both great destinations though the UK is pricier - you may want to consider Holland or Scandinavia. English is very widespread and there are so many things to do the kids will not be bored.
One accomodation option to consider is cabins or "trekkerhuts" in many campgrounds in Denmark and Holland. You can rent 2 for the same price as a one hotel room. Just take your own sheets and towels - cooking in the communal kitchens is another money-saver, as is "street food." I assume you will have a rental car?
Go to public libraries for free or cheap access to the Internet. Campgrounds have laundry facilities to make your packing a little lighter.
Hostels are another good option, especially with teens, so they can meet other teens.
Wherever you decide to go, travel as early or as late as possible in the summer (June or August) since July is the most hectic and also the warmest.
With good planning and with a little compromise here and there (like staying in cabins or hostels), the cost for 4 people for the 12 days could end up less than $5,000 including car, air, lodging and food...Really.
Phoebe
USA Wed 11/29/2006
Car and Rail for James
In April with no car in Province you can visit towns on the rail lines (Arles, Avignon, Nimes, Orange) and there may be buses to the Camargue, but unless you hire a driver you'd have to skip Les Beaux, the Pont du Gard (unless there are buses from Nimes), St. Remy (a handy base if you do get a car) and the small towns of the Luberon and the Sorge. You could make day trips to Marseilles and Aix (or even Lyon) instead.
In the Dordogne you would be even more constrained--probably you would stay in Sarlat but from there I think you would have difficulty getting to the Vezere valley, the small towns along the Dordogne (Beynac, la Roque, Dome, etc.), or other destinations like St. Cirq or Rocamador.
The good news is that it really isn't a case of car "or" rail--you can have both. For instance: arrive in Avignon using your railpass, check your bags, and tour the sights. If you get bored hop the train to Orange. When ready, claim your bags and use your pass to get to Arles. Spend the next day there.
Pick up your first rental car the day after than, and use it to explore the countryside for a few days before returning it (perhaps in Nimes, with a stop at the Pont du Gard) and using your rail pass to go to your next destination, where you will rent another car for a few days if necessary.
Really, it's lots of fun this way. Have a great trip!
Adam
Boston, USA Wed 11/29/2006
Travel with teens & budget
Wendy -If your question is more budget related: Use hotel & airline websites to get an idea of costs. You don't have to plan out a detailed trip but only you know what is acceptable to you in terms of flight and accomodations. For instance - I try to only fly nonstop and I like to use Delta (from Atlanta) - it took me less than 2 minutes to find out that a non-stop Delta flight would be $450 more flying from Atlanta to Athens versus Atlanta to Dublin in July 07. Using last year's travel books you can get a good idea of where you would want to go and a rough idea of hotel costs. Again, when we travel with our teens we almost always get two rooms, but if you would be happy sharing a room then your costs would be less than ours.
If you are asking more in regards to what is fun for teens I can answer only about Ireland & England. We had great trips to both places. I have thought about going to Greece but I think it would just be too hot and too crowded in the summer. I'll save it for another time. My kids enjoy castles and getting out of London into SW England and then Wales provided us with lots of castle ruins (our favorite kind) to climb around. King Arthur's castle at Tintagel is especially great as are Edward's 5 castles in N. Wales. The Irish countryside also provided lots of places to walk around but was definitely a more low-key trip than England. As for meeting other teens - I think this is hard. Getting out of the big cities and staying in a place popular with other European visitors (i.e. a beach town) could help. We did meet an English family with kids who were the same age as ours while taking surf lessons in Cornwall - we still keep in touch. I had picked the hotel specifically because reviews said it was popular with families from London.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 11/29/2006
Car or rail in France?
Regarding my questions posted this year on this website, thanks for all the previous comments and emails. Rick's disciples are the best travel gurus. Your help was (and is) greatly appreciated! Here's another question to ponder: My wife and I are touring France in April 2007, mainly focusing on southern and central France (mostly Rick's towns). We want to soak in the countryside. We are leaning toward renting a car but we remember the great time we had in 2002 touring Germany by rail. In your opinion, if we opted for rail instead of car, what towns would become difficult? Click on below for email address. Once again, thanks and have a happy and safe holiday season!
James <email>
West Memphis, AR USA Tue 11/28/2006
Hotel in Barcelona
I will be in Barcelona in late April early May of 07. I will need a hotel room for the weekend. Can anyone recommend a website with fairly inexpensive hotels in Barcelona for about $100 USD or so a night. Or if anyone knows of a hotel that would be great. I know prices go up on the weekends but I am traveling on somewhat of a budget.
Kim
Brooklyn, NY USA Tue 11/28/2006
Parents traveling with teens on a budget
We are going to travel outside of the US for the first time with two teenage boys, 17 and 15. We will be 4 people and want to travel for less than $10,000 all included for 12 days. We are trying to decide between British Isles (Ireland especially) and possibly Greece. We have to go in the summer time when school is out. Our teens are interested in meeting other teens as well as seeing Castles, Churches, artwork, etc.
Wendy <email>
San Luis Obispo, CA USA Tue 11/28/2006
Have you heard of rentalinrome.com? - My opinion about this forum
I'm trying to decide on an apartment in Rome. I've searched venere.com and sleepintaly.com and various other sites (only a very few fit within our budget), but I've just come across rentalinrome.com and was amazed with all the listings. Is this a reputable company? Have you had experience with them before? I'd like to stay in the Trastevere or Monteverde neighborhood as I've heard that that's where you can find a lot of the old Roman neighborhoods that are (hopefully) a little less touristy. We don't mind the walk - plus my husband loves photography and we are often most impressed with the spontaneous photos capturing everyday life or of places that aren't listed in a guidebook.
By the way, I love the forum just the way it is. It's nice to read a variety of topics and advice of travel. I hope that someday I can travel to France and worry about what train to catch or go to Ireland and have lunch in a pub... Reading this forum is never boring and it helps me to keep up my enthusiasm to travel abroad.
Amy
USA Tue 11/28/2006
England in January
If you use the layer system i.e. T shirt, shirt, sweater, down or synthetic vest, and a wind/rain coat (perhaps gortex), you will be prepared for all possibilities. However, if you prefer not to trod through wet grass and mud or scramble over wet, slippery rocks; you may enjoy yourself more in London. Personally, I try not to let weather stop me. I once slithered under a fence, in the rain and mud, to get to Megalithic Tombs in a cow pasture. It is a state of mind, and only you know your own tolerance level.
Kim
Iowa USA Tue 11/28/2006
re: London Weather in December
Whatever you do, don't look up.
USA Tue 11/28/2006
London Weather in December
I will be in London next week. Any suggestions for heavy rain? A good water proof hat, or an umbrella strong enough to handle the rain? I have a rain jacket but nothing to cover my head besides a cashmere beanie.
I've been once before during March and only had light rain once so I was fine wearing my trainers (Nikes). Can I wear them again or will they get too wet?
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Tue 11/28/2006
Trains
Maybe it depends on the country. In the last 6 years, I have been on over 135 trains in Germany, always in second class, and I never found it to be unacceptable. In the previous century, I traveled mostly in 1st class (at company expense). I didn't find it to be anything special, and eventually I switched to 2nd class, even when they paid. In my opinion, 1st class is a waste of money.
<email>
USA Tue 11/28/2006
trains
first class is usually empty while second class is a zoo. spend the extra money and you will be glad you did
mike
USA Tue 11/28/2006
gyor
ive traveled throughout europe and have never had trouble with people speaking english to me especially at train stations. the problem arises when they dont want to speak to you, and try to get you to buy unnecessary tickets even if you have a eurail pass. beware
joe
tor, ont can Tue 11/28/2006
England in January - Liz
Best to check Accuweather just before you leave so you can adjust what you take. I would expect cold, wet weather - even snow - depending on exactly where you go. A good raincoat with a warm zip-in liner, gloves and a hat would be the best combo. Also take shoes that are resistant to wet!
USA Tue 11/28/2006
flight security-dutyfree purchases
Same experience landing in Atlanta. It was not really until we landed that all passengers were made aware of this: Even if Atlanta was your final destination, the same 3-1-1 approach was used - 1 quart ziplock bag per person with all liquids and gels on the screening belt, and all dutyfree liquids (including alcohol and perfumes) had to be put in checked luggage - if you had no checked luggage you were out of luck and had to turn in your expensive purchases, OR go back to the end of the line, place the dutyfree item in your carry-on and get the bag tagged, so the bag cold then be placed on the conveyor belt and tranported to baggage claim...where you could claim it!!
"Capricious" is not the word, but the real word, other than extraordinarily inefficient and lacking in any real security, can not be printed in this forum!
USA Tue 11/28/2006
Trip Advisor
And, amazingly enough, Trip Advisor is one of the many other forums that has figured out how to thread topics so that they are easy to follow. It must be some special trick their webmaster has figured out.
Jake
USA Tue 11/28/2006
Trip Advisor
Yes, www.tripadvisor.com is definitely the best. We've made suggestions here to improve the Rick Steve's forums, but they are deleted almost as soon as they are posted.
Maybe someday the moderators will find they can spend less time by actually following our suggestions rather than just sitting around waiting to hit the "DELETE POSTING" button...
Tim
USA Tue 11/28/2006
Travel Forums
I enjoy most travel forums. I probably like "Trip Advisor" the best as it has the most detatiled sub-forums and the most activity.
Gary Mc
Salt Lake City, USA Tue 11/28/2006
flight security
I returned to the U.S. from France in September 2006. The airline heavily pushed the duty free purchases. About ten minutes before we landed in Dallas, TX, our first stop in the U.S. they advised everyone that bottles of duty free would have to be put into their checked baggage as it couldn't be carried in hand luggage inside the U.S.
Shari Larsen <email>
Friday Harbor, WA USA Mon 11/27/2006
England in January
I will be flying to London for about a week in the middle of January. Will the weather be too terrible to travel the "countryside" or should I stick to sight-seeing in London, where the effects of weather might not be as dramatic? I traveled to Amsterdam and Paris last January and found the weather to actually be quite comfortable and spent hours outside, but maybe it was a warm winter? Any thoughts are welcome, since my trip plan is currently a blank slate!
Liz R. <email>
Media, PA USA Mon 11/27/2006
Other forums
Another vote for the Fodor's forums. I mostly hang out on the Asia board, but the Europe one is very active. You can find some great trip reports there. I also check Lonely Planet's thorntree for the more off-the-beaten-path countries, but you have to work harder to find the gems there.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Mon 11/27/2006
Gyor
It is mind-boggling to me to think there are actually people writing to this graffiti wall who think wherever they go in Europe, the people of that non-English speaking country should speak English! You should always learn at least at little of whatever language is spoken in each country you visit. It is outrageous to think that "they" should be able to speak English to you!
John
Carmel, Ca USA Mon 11/27/2006
Travel websites for questions & advice?
I also like the Fodor's website. They have a forum for each region of the world and you can search by keyword in a particular country.
As much as I like this board, the information on the Fordor's boards are much more varied. For example, I was looking for information on La Scala Opera House and cooking classes in Italy and I was able to find much more on the Fodor's boards.
http://www.fodors.com/forums/?lid=Forums&lpos=top_nav
USA Mon 11/27/2006
France Touring for James
You don't say what a "countryside" tour is, but I think you will have a better look at the countryside if you have a car. As you note, many local buses don't run from November to May.
One useful transportation strategy is to travel by rail from region to region and rent a car for a few days in each one. One French railpass combines train and car days.
Another general suggestion for April is to start in the South, perhaps even spending all your time there if you do not want to see Paris this trip. You could fly into Nice or Marseilles and work your way north to Paris, or west through Languedoc to the Dordogne (flying home from Toulouse).
In fifteen days you can have a very satisfying trip that includes Provence (Arles, Avignon, Nimes) and Paris and perhaps one other region that is not too far out of the way like the Cote D'Azure (Nice). I think that Provence and the Dordogne and Paris would be a stretch particularly without a car, though if you are just interested in a brief taste and are fast travelers you could probably make this work.
You could consider flying into Tolouse and getting to the Dordogne from there, then stopping in the Loire before ending in Paris.
One car-free itinerary might be: Fly into Tolouse, then visit Carcassone, Arles (many day trips possible), Lyon and/or Beaune, ending in Paris. A shame not to have a car in many of those destinations, though.
I hope there's one idea here that is helpful--good luck!
Adam
Boston, USA Mon 11/27/2006
re Venice
Everybody coming and going from Venice uses the Vaporetti. They are used to luggage. I would advise to check your maps carefully for the most level route to your hotel. What will be difficult wth luggage are the many small and large bridges. Even the shortest walks in Venice will have many bridges. They have steps, sometimes quite steep, not ramps. Walking's fun up and down, but with luggage it can become a chore. Our last time in Venice we stayed at a place in Dorsoduro which was step-free from both Accademia and Zattere. Paradise!
Nigel
Coventry, UK Mon 11/27/2006
France Touring Schedule
Hi James,
We did pretty much what you're thinking of doing. Four of us arrived in Paris at the end of April but only stayed one night. Caught a 9:ish am train to Amboise the next morning. Toured Amboise that afternoon and evening, next day a tour with AccoDispo (see Rick's France guide); next morning train to Sarlat. Toured Sarlat that afternoon(definitely a town to return to repeatedly!) next day a tour of the Perigord region (caves) with AlloPhilippeTaxi. (Fantastic tour, beautiful region). Then we rented a car to drive to Arles because the duration of the trains was ridiculous. Enjoyed Arles (second time for me) for that day and the next, then trained to Aix en Provence for a vacation from our vacation. After 2 nights there we were off to Beaune for 2 nights then back to Paris for 4 nights. It was definitely a whirlwind trip but a great one. Hope this helps.
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Sun 11/26/2006
day trip to Auschwitz
My wife and I are planning a trip to Auschwitz. We plan on leaving early in the morning from Prague and arrive at the town of Oswiecim. This makes more sense than going on to Krakow and then back tracking from Krakow to Oswiecim. Is this able to be done? Are there luggage lockers at the train station in Oswiecim?
Steve Crumrin <email>
Jasonville, In USA Sun 11/26/2006
Florence Center Hotel
Carol: Try Soggiorno Battistero, which is right on the piazza in front of the duomo. I stayed there in 2001 and was pleased. My room was basic, but clean. Couple that runs the hotel were very pleasant and helpful. Website is www.soggiornobattistero.it.
Frank
Wilmington, DE USA Sun 11/26/2006
Travel websites for questions & advice?
While Rick's Graffiti Wall is my top place to go for travel advice and questions, I was wondering if any Rick-sters have any other favorite websites for posting travel questions and advice? Please click on email address below.
James <email>
West Memphis, AR USA Sun 11/26/2006
France Touring Schedule?
Three questions for my fellow travelers: My wife and I are planning a countryside tour of France in mid-April 2007. Here's question #1...what would be your top cities and sights for a person riding the rails and bus system? I have noticed in Rick's book that several towns are difficult to reach unless you have a car and I also noticed that several tourist bus lines do not start up until May. Question #2-What cities do we need to eliminate that would be too difficult to reach via a train. Question #3- With 15 touring days what would your ideal schedule look like? Any advice or tips will be greatly appreciated. Click on below for email address. Thanks again and happy travels!
James <email>
West Memphis, AR USA Sun 11/26/2006
hotel florence center
We are planning a visit to Florence. Last time stayed at Hotel Medici but there seems to be some rather negative reviews as of late...anyone been there recently and if so what are the conditions. If not Hotel Medici does anyone have recommendations for 1 or 2 star in area of Duomo or San Lorenzo district?
carol <email>
austin, tx USA Sun 11/26/2006
Berlin Hotels
Has anyone stayed at the Hotel Hackesher Markt or the Hotel Luisenhof in Berlin? I'd love any feedback.
Mary Kay <email>
West Bend, Wi USA Sun 11/26/2006
Flights to Crete
Jessica - you need whichbudget.com
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Sat 11/25/2006
Gyor
Last time I checked Gyor was still a not-very-touristy town in Hungary. Why would you expect the staff at the station to speak English? I found the town pleasant enough, but not especially interesting. Good food, though.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Sat 11/25/2006
Hotel Royal Munich, Schillerstraße 11a
Glad to see that someone else (Kim) had a good experience at the Hotel Royal in Munich! It's on Schillerstraße 11a. It's changed owners since I was there last in 2002, but by all accounts is still comfortable and clean, with friendly, helpful staff and a good buffet breakfast--and the location is terrific. Gruß Gott!
Meg Rosenfeld <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Sat 11/25/2006
gyor
went to gyor last year and your right they spoke no english. dont go there if you want to get ignored.
buff., USA Sat 11/25/2006
gyor complaint
went to gyor in september and was thorougly dissapointed. no one at the train station spoke english. when i showed them my eurail pass they would not accept it. went to the tourism office and travel agency but got the runaround. so i got on the next train and left. i am sorry to say i will never go back and you should not either. any other bad experiences out there for this destination?
mike
tor, can Sat 11/25/2006
munich hotel
easypalace hotel in munich 29euros single. see web site.
joe
fra Sat 11/25/2006
From Spain to France
I will be going to Spain in April of 07. I will be staying in a small coastal town called Taramiu about 70 miles south of the french boarder and about 30 miles north of Barcelona. Does anyone know of this town? I would like to venture to France for the day..what town would be close enough for me to do so? Any advise would be helpful. Thanks
Kim
NYC, NY USA Sat 11/25/2006
Hotel in Munich
I stayed at the Hotel Royal in Munich almost directly across from the train station. It seems like a seedy neighborhood but I did not feel unsafe for one second. It is in Rick's book. The included breakfast was good. It was not very expensive either. Only thing is I cannot remember for the life of me the name of the street it is on. But if you have Rick's book it will be in there. I was there during Oktoberfest in 05, a time when you would think there would be a lot of crime etc. and the seedier places would seem more seedy. But it was great!! The hotel was clean, the service was friendly and the location could not have been better. Not a bad price either, I think it was about 90USD. per night.
Kim
NYC, NY USA Sat 11/25/2006
PROTECTING YOUR CAMERA
A lot depends on how often you use your camera. If you shoot often you want to keep it handy.
But if you don't shoot often like me, I keep my small digital under my jacket with the zipper closed. Noone can see it and I can't drop it.
You should develope the method most comfortable for you. Whatever you do, it is essential to keep it safe.
If yours is an expensive camera, thiefs may slash the strap and run off with it if they can get to it.
In 20 years of travel I have never had anyone try to take my camera and on one trip to Europe I carried three of them around my neck!
The best advice I ever heard is to stay away from crowds. Don't let people brush against you of distract you.
CARKE
ANSA, NM USA Sat 11/25/2006
munich hotel
easy palace hotel across from train station. very cheap in price, and a good locationm.
moe
USA Thu 11/23/2006
Re: Munich Hotel
Stayed with a group of 20 family and friends at the Hotel Ludwig across from the main rail station. Not a concern at all. Posted a review on tripadvisors.com
Jeff
NJ USA Thu 11/23/2006
Munich hotels
Goping to Munich in Dec. I've seen only one comment on the Hotel am Viktualienmarkt. Has anyone stayed there or have comments on other hotels?
John Bruno
Wethersfield, CT USA Thu 11/23/2006
Protecting your camera while traveling
Simply keep your eyes on your camera.
I always am aware of anything I might be carrying on my body while I'm sightseeing.
I keep my camera strap around my wrist so I don't drop it, but that also keeps me aware of where the camera is at all times.
Never stick your valuable camera in your backpack and get on a subway car. If you do...keep the daypack on your chest, not your back.
For extra protection, you can always use a twisty tie on the zipper pulls...that makes it a bit harder for the thief to get into your pack.
Try not to keep the camera(s) straps around your neck.
And...unless you really, really, really feel you need both the 35MM and the digital...leave one of them at home. Honetly...you don't need 2 cameras. It will tie you down too much. Take a deep breath and take just the digital (unless it's just a point and shoot, 3mp or less, then take the 35MM instead)
After trying what you want to do...taking 2 cameras...I've totally gone just digital. It was really hard to leave my trusty 35 at home, but now I don't even take it out of the closet. I'm totally digital. - it's smaller, easier to keep track of, and takes great photos!
happy shooting!
USA Thu 11/23/2006
Roslyn Chapel
Roslyn Chapel - near Edinburgh
Someone asked if it was worth detouring from Edinburgh to Roslyn Chapel - YES - it's absolutely beautiful - unlike most other Scottish Churches it is extremely ornate with the most magnificent carvings on every surface, and full of history. Unfortunately some of the beauty was marred by scaffolding outside, but hopefully that is gone by now. Well worth the short and easy trip out there.
Carole
Adelaide, Australia Wed 11/22/2006
Camera Protection:
Other than keeping one hand on your camera at all times, you may want to stop at a photo store periodically and have the pictures put on a disc. You can either mail the discs home or put them in your suitcase being sure to keep the camera and suitcase seperate. Or you can take several memory cards and change them once in awhile, so if the camera is stolen not all your pictures go with it.
Kim
Iowa USA Wed 11/22/2006
Easter in Madrid/ Toledo
We'll either be in Madrid or Toledo for Easter this spring. Any reccomendations for which of the two cities would more tourist friendly on Easter Sunday (we'll only have about a day in each of the cities). Will everything be closed down?
Any input would be great!
Aly <email>
Apple Valley , MN USA Wed 11/22/2006
Crete - Athens air connections.
Jessica....Within Greece try Aegean Air. Airports in Crete are Heraklion (HER) which is the largest, and Chania (CHQ). Aegean has flights from Crete to Athens as low as 54euros. They may also connect to Rome. I hope this helps with your trip.
George
USA Wed 11/22/2006
Venice with luggage
Venice - The vaporettos are not very difficult with luggage. You can just roll it on. Once on, find a spot where you are out of the traffic flow. Buy your ticket or pass before boarding. They do check and levy fines.
George
USA Wed 11/22/2006
3 moms
We did 12 days in Italy in September and would love to help you.
Send me a email and I will give you some details.
Renee <email>
Canada Wed 11/22/2006
Northern Ireland
CG I spent a week in Southern Ireland and a week in Northern Ireland.Most people skip the north but I found it every bit as good as the south.I could give you info on what we liked.best regards jack
Jack <email>
Sheboygan, Wi USA Wed 11/22/2006
VENICE
How difficult is it to use the vaporettos, etc. to cross the canals in Venice with suitcases?
Maureen <email>
Victoriaville, Québec Canada Wed 11/22/2006
3 Moms
3 moms - You may have enough advice already. I couldn't get my comments in quicker because I was in Italy! Since I've only been back 3 days it's all fresh so here are my suggestions: Go the first of November instead of the end of Oct. Rooms rates fall drastically on Nov. 1 (Our room in Venice went from E300 to E100 per night). Fly open jaws into Venice and work your way south to Rome. The fall weather will start in the north and this will give you your best shot at good weather. We started out in Venice in the mid to high 50s and ended in Rome with 68 degree weather. No rain anywhere. If you only have 10 days, 2 of those will be flying days. This leaves you with 8 actual days. Fly into Venice for 2 days, rail to Florence for 2 days, optional 2 days and Rome for the balance. I see you want to go to Tuscany which is of course beautiful but consider Umbria instead. I've been to Siena twice and loved it but I went to Assisi last week and it was incredible. Take the bus from Florence to either Siena or Assisi and then the train from whichever to Rome. I like to maximize my time by taking late afternoon or early evening trains. This way I can leave my bags at the hotel and enjoy a full day of sightseeing before traveling and the train time is not cutting into hours sites are open. You can have an early dinner at your point of departure or a late dinner at your destination. Let me know if you need any specifics. Most of my info is still in my suitcase! We 3 moms had a great time and you will too!
Marhanal <email>
USA Wed 11/22/2006
Re: Crete Flights
Try the search engines on any of the consolidator type sights, I like Airgorilla.com and airlineconsolidator.com. Both will allow you to look at or book open jaw, and will even split the "over to" and "return" segments between two different non-affiliated airlines if need be. You might also compare the cost to just round trip to Athens and book a cheap flight on Aegean Air (Aegeanair.com) separately from Athens to Crete.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 11/22/2006
Re: Shipping Home from Italy
Hate to raise the spector of bad news, but depending what you shipped, the package may be hung up in Customs. Go to the US Customs website and browse the prohibited items, if any of the items are on this list, and they caught it, you may be out of luck. The "sausages" raised a flag for me, usually no meat products can be shipped. Since they shipped it, customs may not even contact you as the recipient.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 11/22/2006
Flights to Crete
I'm starting to look into an open jaw trip flying into Crete and out of Athens. Does anyone know of a site that will show which airlines fly in and out of Crete, especially the low cost type?
Cities I know I can get to in one leg are London, Paris, Frankfurt, Brussels.
Jessica <email>
Chicago , IL USA Wed 11/22/2006
Calabria area Italy
Pls give info re Calabria area/loding/transportation. RS does not incl in his guidebooks. I am wondering if it is a good destination as an extension of Amalfi area (which I love.
JS
USA Wed 11/22/2006
Rosslyn Chapel Scotland
Has anyone visited this location outside Edinburg. Is well worth a detour to see the carving and architecture? comments welcome.
JS
USA Wed 11/22/2006
Shipping home from Italy
I am having a communication problem with a retailer about an order my husband and I placed on October 21, 2006, from PERINI located at the mercato central in Florence, Italy. [www.periniitalia.it (055/2398306)] We ordered various cheeses, sausages, olive oils and pastas, to be shipped to us within 3-5 business days by Mailboxes Etc. We paid 435 Euro for this order and although I know 3-5 days is a lofty expectation, it is now the 23rd of November. I have e-mailed them weekly and have not received a response. I call them and there is no answer. Is there a more acceptable means to communicate with the Italians once we get home?
Marguerite McGuffin <email>
olkahoma city, ok USA Wed 11/22/2006
Parking in Florence
Maureen - You do not have to give up your car in order to visit Florence. we too stayed in Tuscany (near Arezzo) and did 2 day trips to Florence. Rick has a section on where to park (the lots are located outside the city) so one afternoon we drove in and had no problem. For our 2nd trip into the city we drove 10 minutes to the nearest small town with a train station, parked the car and took the train in for one day. Again, very easy to do and we were glad to have the car for the week we were in Tuscany.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 11/22/2006
Bus Service Frankfurt-Hahn
On another site in this website a reader asks about bus service to Hahn. I googled "Airport Frankfurt Hahn." Like most airports, Hahn has a website with lots of info including details about getting to and from the airport via various transport modes. All airports that I have researched have similar websites. I have printed the info and taken it with me to have it when I fly.
Swan
USA Wed 11/22/2006
London Secrets Shared
Harrods bank (in basement ) has best exchange rate in london difference between bureau de change and Harrods on 1100$ was 60 $ WOW. Rich people will pay anything upstairs but will not allow being taken downstairs, I was told ; and this gives me reason to "shop".Learn the Bus system great time and step saver ; and When the tube is closed you have a plan . On 20 Nov someone didnt " mind the gap " tube closed . If you are over 60 or have student id ( e me and I will solve both problems )Do not waste time at half price ticket booth go to theatre and ask for cocession ticket you save 2.50£ or more per ticket often ticket is only 17.50£ instead of 25£ I do this All the time to day will see my 7th show in 4 days I do know this stuff .PS Mary Poppins was great and by asking for restriced view saved 20 £( as epmty seats then moved )tip 3. ttfn
John Brangwin <email>
Bellevue , Wa USA Wed 11/22/2006
Lodging in Frankfurt
When returning from a business trip I will have a free weekend in Frankfurt. I will be there in mid December. I would like to stay in Frankfurt and see some of the things there, with maybe a short trip out of the city. Could someone please suggest some lodging in the economical to medium price range. Also could you suggest some places to visit and favorite restaurants.
Thanks so much
Tom
Tom <email>
Jackson, MS USA Tue 11/21/2006
Rome to Sarlat
You might consider using a night train as part of your trip. That way you can use otherwise "dead" time for travel and save the cost of a hotel room. There is a night train (EN 226) leaving Rome Termini at 18:40, getting into Paris Bercy at 9:10. With an advance purchase, the online "Smart Price" fare is €240 for all four people in a 4 person couchette.
You can also leave Rome at 18:05 on an Italian Eurostar, change in Milan, and get into Paris earlier at 8:23. Using the couchette 4 from Milan, the combined fare from Rome to Paris is €460 for all four of you. That's quite a bit more, but it might work better for your connection from Paris to Sarlat.
<email>
USA Tue 11/21/2006
Parking in Florence
Take a bus to Florence from maybe Siena or another town. It works well and is easier and safer.
la
Canada Tue 11/21/2006
Rome to Sarlat
How about a train from Rome to Toulouse?
You then catch a train from Toulouse to Soulliac and bus it from there (only about 40 mins) to Sarlat.
Judy <email>
Adelaide, SA Australia Tue 11/21/2006
Re: Rome to Sarlet for Helen
You won't find anything (other than hiring a private plane) that will be less than 10-12 (stressful) hours anyway.
Maybe you can budget your time/money and enjoy the train ride! I dunno - maybe there's a Rome-Marseille train during the day for the scenery along the Riviera, then a night train across France from Marseilles to Bordeaux?
Have a great trip!
Elizabeth
Anderson, IN USA Tue 11/21/2006
France day tripping for IP
You asked if it's possible to visit Arles as a day trip from Nice.
It is--barely--but if you'd like some advice: don't! It's got to be at least 3-1/2 hours each way and you'd be much better off either finding a trip closer to your home base, or shifting your home base west to Provence.
Adam
Boston, USA Tue 11/21/2006
Bologna Italy Hotels
I stayed in Bologna Italy in May of this year. We loved it so much we spent one less day in Venice to go back and spend an extra day there. It is a shoppers paradise and just a beautiful city.
I also had a hard time finding hotels in Bologna as it is not a tourist trap. I can however recommend www.venere.com for hotels in Bologna. I booked my hotel with them, Ideal Hotel, which was on the low end of the price scale but super clean, quiet, comfortable, and a great view of a church outside my window.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Tue 11/21/2006
Rome to Sarlat
Helen-that's a tough one. Only thing I'd suggest is maybe you can find a cheap flight Rome-Paris then a TGV to Bordeaux????
Jason
Boulder, CO USA Tue 11/21/2006
Re: Parking in Florence
I would be tempted to find the nearest small town on one of the main train lines to Florence, park there, and take the train in. For minimal cost, it will get you right down to central Florence, probably safer, cheaper parking, and certainly less traffic, maybe even faster.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 11/21/2006
Cafeteria Rivoli near the Louvre
Help - I need to know the contact information for the Cafeteria Rivoli across the street from the Louvre. It's not a fancy French restaurant, but it serves big helpings of 8 different menu choices really fast and really cheap - which is what I need as I lead a group of 30 junior high students and 10 adults through Paris. We have eaten there before and have been turned back for not having reservations. The manager gave me a business card with an email address, phone number, and website on it so I can make reservations next time. Of course I lost it. Help would be great.
Craig Bresett <email>
Langley, BC CA Tue 11/21/2006
EU and bag limit
My apologies
The 1 carry on bag limit for the whole EU comes into effect sometime next spring - April I think. The one bag limit is still in effect in the UK, and I think Belgium.
Scotland Tue 11/21/2006
Rome to Sarlat
Would anyone have any ideas on the cheapest, quickest way to get from Rome to Sarlat in The Dordogne in France. Maybe Bordeaux is easier. Trains are 18 hours and the flights i can find are $1000.00. There will be four travellers. Thank you
Helen
USA Tue 11/21/2006
PARKING IN FLORENCE
We'll be staying in agritourismo lodging in Tuscany and travelling around by car. Any tips re getting into or parking in Florence for the day?
Maureen <email>
Victoriaville, QC Canada Tue 11/21/2006
CAMERA PROTECTION
I'll be travelling in Italy and I have a 35 mm SLR camera and also a compact digital camera. Any tips on protecting the cameras from theft and/or accident?
Maureen <email>
Victoriaville, QC Canada Tue 11/21/2006
Car rental in Italy
My husband and I are traveling to Italy in May 2007. We've driven in Italy before, renting a car through Hertz. We're wondering if there are any European rental agencies that are less expensive.
Boni <email>
Littleton, CO USA Tue 11/21/2006
france day trips
Is it possible to do a day trip from Nice to Arles or Nimes or would you have to stay overnight
IP
USA Tue 11/21/2006
Quart bags &
It's true that the EU (European Union) has adopted the quart-sized bag for liquids, gels & sprays of no more then 3 oz each, as of November 2006. However, we just traveled from the Netherlands to Denmark and back and Northwest/KLM does not restrict passengers to one bag only - we asked that question specifically. They do restrict you to 1 carryon bag of a certain size/weight and 1 personal item. You are also restricted to just 1 quart-sized bag of liquids/gels/sprays as noted above.
However, the "one-bag" rule may very well still apply to/through/from the UK - we have not flown that route in many years, so I don't know much about it.
FL USA Tue 11/21/2006
Berlin Savoy Hotel
M.K. B. My wife an I stayed at the Savoy a few years back and found it to be a nice place. The rooms were clean and the breakfasts were pretty good. It was a little spendy for what you get and the staff was so so. If you're looking for some high end shopping, its location is nice. The 1 and 1/2 block walk to the Zoo station was pretty convenient as well. That end of Berlin is pretty genteel, there are some decent restaurants and bars within a few blocks at Savignyplatz, but not much else going on for nightlife. If you want some nightlife, you're better off in Mitte IMHO. All in all though, I'd put them on my list of possibilities next time through (which is in January with any luck). Good Luck!
JRS
Apple Valley, MN USA Mon 11/20/2006
Alilaguna to Marco Polo Airport
The Alilaguna boat trip took about an hour from the Vaporetto stop near San Marco to Marco Polo Airport. I paid 10 Eur and took a very early boat about a year ago.
Swan
USA Mon 11/20/2006
Christmas in Rome
Can anyone share a wonderful experience they had attending a Chistmas Eve midnight mass at another centrally located church in Rome (not St. Peter's)? Also...can someone tell me about the Pope's "mid-day" Chistmas blessing? Is that noon...do you just show up at St. Peter's Square? Also, does anyone have restaurants to recommend that were open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the 26th? It's hard to find all of this information. Thanks!
Terry <email>
Bend, OR USA Mon 11/20/2006
Quartbags
If you are referring to Europe, go to www.baa.com and look at their detailed instructions which are good for all of Europe. Basically it is only liquids or pastes that must be in the bag - and in containers (NOT quantities) no larger than 100ml. Dry makeup, drugs etc. don't go in, but if you are brining liquid drugs, you should declare them as well.
Also, if you are travelling to Europe please be aware that the ONE bag limit (see the above website for dimension) now applies to all flights to and within Europe.
Kate
Scotland Mon 11/20/2006
Quart bags
When packing your quart bag with toiletries, does that include comsmetics also? What about Rx drugs?
USA Mon 11/20/2006
my air
I am looking at flying from Madrid to Venice and was wondering if anyone has used My Air
europe bound
USA Mon 11/20/2006
Nancy, Marco Polo
I flew out of M P very early one morning and took the Alilaguna, a special boat that takes quite a while to get to the airport.
Here is a suggestion: check on what time the airport opens. The reason I say this is that last year I had a very early flight out of Genoa airport, and got up in the middle of the night to be there (staying at the Sheraton next door). I and many others were there so early that the airport was not even open yet. We got inside but then waited nearly an hour for the check-in and the security to open. So just check...it should say something on the website. No use losing sleep only to stand around waiting for security to open.
Linda <email>
PA USA Mon 11/20/2006
Scotland vs. Northern Ireland Revisited
If you had a week to either drive the countryside of Scotland or Northern Ireland, which woudl you choose? From earlier responses, it sounds like the Scotland driving is great; however, we are also looking at Northern Ireland (we thoroughly enjoyed our previsous Ireland trip and are looking for more).
CG
Chicago, USA Mon 11/20/2006
Lunch restaurant near Villa Adriana, Tivoli
We are visiting Villa Adriana in Tivoli next week and I thought I had a restaurant selected, but am now I am not certain of the location. We need a lunch spot within walking distance of Hadrian's Villa. Is La Sibilla close? I understand another there may be another restaurant by the entrance - Adriano? If anyone can help in the next day before we leave on Tuesday, it will be greatly appreciated! Grazie!
Cyn
USA Sun 11/19/2006
Vatican Museum Tour Arrangements
Terry:
I believe the Scavi Tour is the "basement" tour. I am interested in the Vatican Museum itself.
Bob
IL USA Sun 11/19/2006
767-300ER
As many of you know, the 767-300ER (Extended range) is classed as a wide body airplane, having two aisles. ALL carriers use a 2-5-2 seating arrangement in this model airplane. The aircraft in general is used on flight legs of between 5000 >6000 miles.
Seating in coach (Economy) is usually around 32" pitch, although I have flown on one airline were it was 30", but that was not the norm.
Usually the coach section is uncluttered with class dividers and closets etc in the newer models, but some people may find it somewhat claustorphobic having seats so close to them from the rows in front, especially so when that person in the seat in front uses the seat re-cline.All I could recommend in that situation is to try and purchase an aisle seat.
Business class seating on International flights however are configured totally different from those on domestic flights having usually 'Sleeper seats', even though they maybe a similar type of aircraft but do provide for much more space around the passenger.
As Katharine has stated, sometimes an airline (Carrier)will 'Wet Lease' a similar type of aircraft from another carrier, but that interior arrangement maybe totally different from that used by the parent company.
As Katharine has suggested Kelly, have a look at www.seatguru.com, it should provide you with most of the information you need on trying to choose a seat.
Enjoy your flight.
Colin
Seattle, Wash. USA Sun 11/19/2006
Vatican tours
Bob,when I emailed the Vatican (last week) about a Scavi tour, they politely sent me an email several days later saying that the tours were full at this time. I hadn't expected a prompt reply, especially since they could not accomodate us. I was impressed with their effeciency.
Terry
Bend, OR USA Sun 11/19/2006
A Belated Thank-You to Karen,
for telling me (last spring) about the direct flight from JFK to Venice. Although I didn't end up flying through VCE then, I managed to find a Skymiles seat for next week, and will get to spend 5 days instead of the 1/2 day I was trying to squeeze in back then. Thanks again!
Fiona
NYC, Sun 11/19/2006
Vatican Museum Tour Arrangements
I want to arrange a tour directly with the Vatican Museum. Its website says they want a fax with names and times.
Do they fax back a confirmation right away? I heard someplace that they don't fax back until a two or less days before the desired date.
Bob
IL USA Sun 11/19/2006
for Nancy
We flew INTO Marco Polo and it is very small- on the other hand, stress over missing your trans-Atlantic flight with only an hour before departure could impact your enjoyment of the last day. If not too late, you could, as suggested, look into the nearby hotel options (I Googled Marco Polo airport + hotel). What if you did that, and then spent your last night in Venice as late as possible to catch either one of the last vaporettos or use the bus option to the airport hotel? Considering how early you would have to get up anyway the day of the flight home, you could enjoy every second of your last day/evening knowing you are minutes away from the airport in the morning. Happy travels- Venice is enchanting!
Karen
USA Sun 11/19/2006
Problem - Ultimate Fares.com
You may also want to get information about the EU regulations on delayed and cancelled flights. All airlines operating flights within or starting in Europe have to abide by the regulations in re refunds etc. when flights are cancelled or delayed. Sounds like you might have a valid case unless the airline can come up with a very good excuse.
Kate Sun 11/19/2006
Scotland - getting there and driving
I wouldn't bother going to London & then getting the train. That's a very long day, and you risk getting stuck in whatever trackwork Network Rail is doing at that time. It's not scenic enough to be worth a huge diversion from your trip plans. Much better just to fly directly over. If you have a morning flight, then you can use the rest of the day to explore around Edinburgh.
I would agree that it's great to drive around Scotland. But not when you are in Edinburgh or Glasgow. If at all possible plan your trip so that you can pick up your car when you are leaving Edinburgh or return it when you arrive in Edinburgh. Parking here is expensive, the pay to park areas are expanding and the parking attendants are VERY strict. Best to use the buses - the day ticket is a great deal - and not have to worry about the ins & outs of parking while in Edinburgh. Then enjoy the car when you've got miles of road and open parking spots to enjoy!
A few tips - if you are driving in the Islands or Highlands, make sure you have the number for the breakdown agency (AA) and make sure you have a functional spare tire. It can take a long time for AA or other company to come rescue you (if at all) in some areas, so it's best to be able to change the tire and drive to a garage to get a new tire. Also be sure to have good maps, and if you are here in the fall/winter/early spring to try and get your driving done in the daylight hours. Outside of the Edinburgh/Glasgow belt there's often very little between towns, so it's less stressful to be trying to navigate in the daylight.
Have fun!
Kate
Scotland Sun 11/19/2006
By flight or rail into Edinburgh?
Hello all,
I'll be leaving Dublin one morning to arrive in Edinburgh the same night--obviously it'd be easiest to take a discount flight directly from Dublin to Edinburgh, but I'd like to take a flight to London, then a train to Edinburgh just to get the rail experience. Is the train ride scenic enough to be worth the extra time and money spent? Thanks!
Abra <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sun 11/19/2006
Nancy
A search on "Venice vaporetto schedule" led me to virtualtourist.com. Look for transportation answers there.
USA Sun 11/19/2006
Venice early morning flight
Nancy,
I think Rick said in his book that he usually got to Venice Marco Polo airport about 1 hour before his flight and never had a problem. So if you get there by 5am you should be OK.
NYC, Sun 11/19/2006
Weather in Spain
I meant to ask as in my previous post regarding Spain-Does anyone know what the weather will be in late April early May in Barcelona and the northern coast Costa Brava? Just so I know what to pack
Kim
Brooklyn, NY USA Sat 11/18/2006
Provence for Carol
A base for daytrips depends in part on where you want to daytrip to. Aix, for instance, is charming (though not small), but it is really at the eastern edge of Provence. A town like St. Remy might be closer to the action.
So: Get a good map of the region and plot your likely day destinations. Use a guidebook to pick a base town that is more or less in the middle of these points.
Provence is lovely in the Spring. Have a great trip!
Adam
Boston, USA Sat 11/18/2006
Tamariu, Spain
Has anyone ever been to Tamariu,Spain? It is in the Costa Brava area. About 30 miles north of Barcelona on the coast and about 70 miles south of the french boarder. I am going there in April of 07 with about 12 family members and renting a villa.
KIm
Brooklyn, NY USA Sat 11/18/2006
Driving in Scotland
We did a one week driving tour of Scotland in Sept/Oct. 2004 and loved it. It's the most beautiful country - no civilization or miles - you know - the way it used to be? We based ourself for most of the time at Fort William. It was centrally located and easy driving to most attractions. We picked up a coach tour brochure and copied the bus tour in regards to places to see. Finally we ended up in Edinburgh for a few nights. Stayed at the Holiday Inn Express - got a great price through hotel.com Our hotel was right on the bus route and only a few mins. to downtown Edinburgh - it was so easy. We left the car in the hotel parking lot. Just make sure that whichever hotel you choose has ample parking. Only problem we encountered was the weather - it was quite windy and cool - so take some warm clothes and enjoy!
Franny
Seattle, Wa. USA Sat 11/18/2006
early morning flight out of Venice--how to get there
I fly out of Venice's Marco Polo airport at 6:10 a.m. What is the cheapest way to get there? Taxi from Piazalle Roma? None of the public transportation gets there before 5 a.m.
Thanks.
Nancy
Clifton Park, NY USA Sat 11/18/2006
Week in Ireland
Go to www.tripadvisor.com and put Vagabond Tours Irelnad in the search box and you will get some very positive feedback.
Steve
USA Sat 11/18/2006
Provence
We are spending 5 days in Provence this spring - where is a good base? We will be taking the train from Paris to Aix en Provence to pick up a rental car. We would prefer one of the smaller towns to base ourselves for daytrips.
carol <email>
austin, tx USA Sat 11/18/2006
Three Moms
Three Moms in Italy, The train from the Rome train station to the airport is only 10 euro so it would be cheaper than the bus. It is very easy to do. I would take the train rather than the bus. Also it is easier to get to the airport in Rome for an early flight than it is in Venice, so I would fly out of Rome.
USA Sat 11/18/2006
Re: Three moms
I suggest flying in to Venice then taking the train to Florence and using Florence as your base for the rest of Tuscany, then taking the train to Rome (watch out for rip-off taxi scams at the terminal) and flying home from Rome--no need to go backwards to your starting point. Or do it the other way--into Rome and out of Venice. Rome's airport (Fiucimino-like name) is about Euro 50. away from the city so be prepared. You can catch a bus (on Via Nazionale?)to the airport that is 23.euro. Good luck!
Karen <email>
CA USA Sat 11/18/2006
Spain in December
Ok, I leave in less than three weeks and am getting nervous. We will be in Marbella for a week and plan three days in Barcelona to start with and three days in Madrid to end. I would love some suggesitons, especially having to do with must sees and restaurants. I have limited Spanish and my husband has less than I do but we are not interested in the Holiday Inn travel. Help!
Caryn C-D <email>
Milton, WA USA Sat 11/18/2006
A Week in Ireland
Thanks to everyone who responded to my query about one-week tours in Ireland. Through more Internet research, we've come across Vagabond Tours out of Dublin, which uses modified Land Rovers and goes off the beaten path. I'd be interested in knowing if anyone's had experience with them ... ???
Kate
Boston, MA USA Sat 11/18/2006
Problem Ultimate Fares
I hope you paid with a credit card! If so, call and sic them on 'em!!! Credit card companies offer a lot of protection against fraud.
USA Sat 11/18/2006
Problem Ultimate Fares.com
We went to Italy in September. We had all of our airlines line up and confirmed. One of those flights was from Naples to Venice. We left our hotel in Naples at 4:30am to catch our flight. When we arrived at the airport we were told our tickets were cancelled. We had booked this flight through UltimateFares.com. We had the confirmation sheet with us and our confirmation number. They said sorry but if we wanted the flight we would have to pay 515 Euros, 400 more than we paid. We had to take a train and that took all day instead of several hours for a flight.
We have contacted Ultimate Fares via email and by phone to find out why. No response and they hung up on me after I asked the question. We realize things happen, but we would at least like to know why it happened. Terrible service and we do not recommend this site in anyway.
David Hape <email>
Smyrna, GA USA Sat 11/18/2006
Re: A week in Ireland
Kate, Sorry you only have a week to spend. We have gone to Ireland three times for three weeks each trip and still missed a lot. Since you only have a week, I suggest you rent a car and make your own tour and don't let the left hand driving stop you. Just take it easy. If you decide to drive, keep your tour limited in a small area. You will be very surprised at how easy the time gets away from you at every stop.And allow plenty of travel time. The small roads are where the sights are located. Get one of Rick's planning maps and decide what sights you "must" see. Driving also gives you the flexability of staying in B&B's, which there is no shortage of in Ireland. We would be glad to share some names/locations of our favorites not to mention any of the places we have been.
Tom <email>
Tigard, OR USA Fri 11/17/2006
Jen - French Riveria
Jen,
I just stayed at Hotel Welcome in Villefranche-sur-mer, it was WONDERFUL! I highly reccommend it. If you're staying solo, the rooms on the top floor go for about 90 Euros a night, and the view is SPECTACULAR!
Erika
Edmonds, WA USA Fri 11/17/2006
French Riviera hotels
I will be taking the Rick Steves' Best of Paris & Provence tour in May. I am thinking about staying a few extra days in the French Riviera area after the tour but have no idea where to even begin planning. Our final stop will be in either Nice or Villefranche-sur-Mer. Does anyone have good suggestions?
Jen
Madison, WI USA Fri 11/17/2006
Three Moms
Three Moms, If at all possible, try to tack on a few extra days. You will wish you had once you get to Italy!!
USA Fri 11/17/2006
Berlin
Has anyone stayed at the Savoy Hotel in Berlin?
M.K. B. <email>
West Bend, Wi USA Fri 11/17/2006
Dual Citizenship
US citizens can have dual citizenship as long as the other country permits dual citizens. It's my understanding that it was always possible, but the US regulations were left purposely vague, probably to discourage people from becoming dual citizens. However in the last two years, the regulations have been clarified, and as long as you don't take another citizenship with the INTENT to get rid of your US citizenship, you don't forfeit your US citizenship.
However, you must enter the US on a US passport and there are some grey areas about consular support and government jobs and voting.
Kate
Scotland Fri 11/17/2006
SCOTLAND DRIVING
Harcus: I have driven Scotland, Ireland and North Ireland and find all of them worth the extra effort driving takes.
By all means proceed with your plan. Having the convenience of your car adds so much more to the travel experience in Scotland.
USA Fri 11/17/2006
A WEEK IN IRELAND
Kate: Travel agents in this country might not know of tours like this; so I suggest you go to a travel agent in the Irish city you first visit and ask this question.
You are seeking a special kind of tour that only one who lives there will know about.
USA Fri 11/17/2006
Three Moms
I completely agree with Paul. Go with his itenerary and you should get a great feel for Italy. We did a version of this trip and couldn't have been more pleased. Have a blast!
Tristan
Wesport, CT USA Fri 11/17/2006
A Week in Ireland
If you are level headed and consider yourself a good driver, I would rent a car in Ireland. For a first time visit with a car, I would recommend the southwest region. However, using the bus system is also a good opportunity. In the more touristed areas, you will find one day tours that take you to spots of interest. Wether you rent a car or take the bus, you are guaranteed a great time in Ireland. P.S Never underestimate the history,cultural information and fun that can be found on a factory tour.
Kim
Iowa USA Fri 11/17/2006
Re: A Week in Ireland
Are you open to going on your own rather than taking a tour? The best way to see small town and rural Ireland is by car. You can go places not easily reachable by public transportation and stop as often and for as long as you wish for things like a scenic walk or a picnic.
If you opt for public transportation, be aware that train service is pretty much limited to major routes so the bus may serve you better if you want to spend the majority of your time exploring the countryside. See www.buseireann.ie for routes, timetables, and passes.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 11/17/2006
Re: Ireland
Consider being your own guide! Ireland is very easy to do on your own, Rick Steves books have all kinds of information, no language barrier (well...not much anyway) and fairly good transportation. If you are comfortable driving yourself, do that, otherwise there are some bus type tours that will get you around.
Paul <email>
IA USA Fri 11/17/2006
Berlin, Germany
We will be vacationing in Berlin in late August 2007 and are confused about the best location for a hotel - and need specific recommendations. We want to visit the historical sites primarily but enjoy a quiet neighborhood to retreat to in the evening with cozy restaurants. Thanks
jane <email>
williams, pa USA Fri 11/17/2006
A Week in Ireland
Am looking for a week-long tour of Ireland without the requisite stops to see how crystal is made, cloth is woven, etc. I really want to avoid the factory tours! Would love to take Rick's two-week tour, but my husband's business can't accommodate this. Can anyone help with recommendations?
Kate
Boston, MA USA Fri 11/17/2006
Re: Amy, Trip
My general rule of thumb, If the train gets me there, that's first choice. If where I want to go is off the track, I may consider renting a car for a few days to explore that area. When considering flying, if the destination is more than 6 hrs by train or ferry, only then do I consider it. When comparing, make sure you consider travel time to the airport, security, flight time, then time to get to your final destination. For a one hour flight, you are looking in most cases at 5 hours of total travel time minimum. Another consideration with flights, is that to get good deals usually requires booking well ahead, limiting flexibility.
Paul <email>
IA USA Fri 11/17/2006
advises for my flight to Rome
Gud morning! I'll b traveling to Rome from Thailand and I would like to be advised as to: the limit weight of baggage, how many allowable hand carries & will it be weighed?, what is not allowed in the handcarry?, what to wear in the plane as a preparation for Europe climate, & other reminders. Thank you, Rick!
Ruben Caluyong <email>
Bangkok, Thailand Thu 11/16/2006
travel tips
my boyfriend and i are planning a european trip in the spring. we would be there for 4-6 weeks. we want to fly into barcelona, travel across europe, then fly out of prague. any advice on traveling (eurorail vs flights), places to visit, tips/advice would help. feel free to email. thanks!
amy <email>
raleigh, nc USA Thu 11/16/2006
Scotland Driving
My wife and I have driven Southern Ireland and loved the trip. We were wondering if we would have a similar experience driving the Scottish countryside and coast. Any thoughts? Thanks.
CG Harcus
Chicago, IL USA Thu 11/16/2006
Dual Citizenship - No
Our daughter was born in Bremerhaven at the US Army Hospital. She has both German and American (US Embassy) birth certificates. We were informed at the time she was not considered to hold a German citizenship. The funny thing was that we had to meet some requirements to get her an American birth certificate and passport. She was in no-man's-land temporarily.
Gary Mc
Salt Lake City, USA Thu 11/16/2006
German citizenship
Erika
German laws are different than our regarding citizenship. Just because one is born there or even marries a citizen doesnt grandfather you in. I am married to a German and I didnt get duel citizenship when we married. Just good ol' American
LC
tn USA Thu 11/16/2006
Erika
I don't think being born in Germany creates any rights towards German citizenship unless your parents are German.
Doberry
USA Thu 11/16/2006
Language in Europe
I always keep in mind when traveling to Europe that any country that I go to I am not in the USA and therefore am not expecting them to speak MY language. I try and learn a little before I go and then get a collection of dictionaries, or CD's etc. to learn some of the basic language skills. I recommend the "Rosetts Stone" series highly. They are expensive but worth it. I have level one in German, Italian and will be getting Spanish for xmas. If you do not have the money for that you can get CD's for a lot less. I try to become part of their culture and have no expectations of them becoming part of mine. Europeans are friendly warm and open every time. At least that has been my experience. I hope everyone has the same experience I do when they go.
Kim <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA Thu 11/16/2006
Re:Three Moms
Rome, Venice, and Tuscany are a good mix for 10 Days. Some will say do only one area, but hey, my attention span is much too short. I would fly round trip to Rome, Major airport, so you get some cost breaks, do a few days there, Train off to Venice for 3 nights, then to Florence as a jumping off point for Tuscany. If driving is acomfort area, find an agency in a smaller town outside of Florence to pick up and drop off. If not, try setting up in Siena or another small town and hire someone to take you around. Get back to Rome with a night or two left, and you will be very pleased with the trip.
Paul <email>
IA USA Thu 11/16/2006
3 moms in Italy
Travel between the larger cities via train. it's too easy! Don't waste money, or your friendship navigating the roads from Rome north. Also, a car does you no good in Venice anyway!
for the towns in Tuscany, you will need to get there by bus, or perhaps rent a car for a few days in this region.
USA Thu 11/16/2006
3 moms - Italy
Hello - everyone thanks for the comments...we would like to go to Rome, Venice and the Tuscany area. Wondering what's the best way to travel between cities. we were thinking of a total of ten days in Italy...other than that we are pretty flexiable
Donna/Laurie/Luanne
Columbus, OH USA Thu 11/16/2006
Bologna Hotels
another website for you to use!
http://www.mbetravel.com/bologna-hotels/bologna-central-station-hotels.html
OR
http://www.itwg.com/?sid=913dbbc4278ca5ea7388e1ff5d75668a
Ellen
CO USA Wed 11/15/2006
Bologna Hoptels
FOR LISA: http://www.enit.it/alberghiris.asp?Lang=UK&ID=457&Luogo=BOLOGNA
Click on "File" for each hotel for further details e.g. hotel websites
Graham <email>
Wed 11/15/2006
Re: Calais Train Station
You want the Calais Ville train station. Here is a quote from www.seat61.com:
The stations at Dover Western Docks and Calais Maritime were closed when Eurostar started in 1994, so you will need to take a bus (£1), taxi (£4) or walk between Dover Priory station and Dover Eastern Docks. The bus from Dover Priory to Eastern Docks runs every 20 mins. In Calais, there are buses between the ferry terminal and Calais Ville station for the train to Paris, also for a small extra charge.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 11/15/2006
Calias train station
I've asked this question before, but can't remember the answer given. I'm planning a trip next June from France to the UK. We will be taking the train from Paris to Calais. I need to know what train station is closer to the ferry depot. Thanks
Joel <email>
Tempe, AZ USA Wed 11/15/2006
Dual Citizenship
While many countries claim to honor "dual citizenship" with the U.S., in almost all cases the US-side doesnt acknowledge this arrangement officially - except for SWISS and one other (Im US-born and Swiss via both parents)... I cant recall the other country the US honored too... This has been the case in the past - unless something changed recently to allow more. The State Dept web site has lots of info - but I havent been able to find the real answer on other countries... But the other poster is correct - US bases and embassies are considered US Soil.
CA USA Wed 11/15/2006
Dual Citizenship
Sorry, both dual citizenship and the Presidency are out of your reach. However, Ireland has a law that may entitle people Irish Citizenship if they can prove a grandparent was born in Ireland. I do not know the specifics of this law.
Iowa USA Wed 11/15/2006
Dual citizenship
An overseas US airbase is considered "US Soil", just like an embassy. Therefore you were not technically born in Germany. If as you say both your parents are US citizens with no connections to Germany, then it is impossible to get dual citizenship.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Wed 11/15/2006
Dual citizenship
I have a question about dual citizenship. I was born in Germany on a U.S. Air Force Base. As I understood it on a German-based website, I cannot get dual citizenship because both of my parents are American. Does anyone know any way around this or if this is true? My husband and I know that this might be our only key to getting to live and work in Europe.
Erika <email>
Rocklin, CA USA Tue 11/14/2006
Claustrophobia
For Kelly- have you considered a prescription for the flight there and back? While not claustrophobic, I do have a serious fear of flying- and I, too, admire you (and me!) for not letting it stop us. On the other hand, $7,000!!!! THAT is scary! Anyway, I had some Valium left from a dental procedure. I am not a painkiller or drug person, but thought to give it a try for a cross-country trip. It was amazing. Those people who are so annoying and doze off before take-off? I became one of them. I just sort of slept on and off the whole time- flight attendant information would sort of wake me, then I'd nod off again, and was too sleepy to fret. You could request an aisle seat, as far up as possible...take your pill when you get in the line to board and next thing you know you'll be in Europe!
Karen
USA Tue 11/14/2006
Take the Aliaguna!
We arrived from our overnight flight at Marco Polo airport and taking the Aliaguna had been recommended on this message board as I planned the trip. It was FANTASTIC! You walk out of the airport and there is the water...the trip takes about 45 minutes (as opposed to the more expensive water taxis, which you will see zip past)and the view as you approach the canal is magical. Once leaving the water, however, it is very easy to quickly get lost. We had what I thought were explicit directions and a detailed map of our hotel and I ended up having to use a pay phone twice to call them, knowing we were only five minutes away. If any of you have more than a carry-on bag a la RS, this could be a problem! On the other hand, you will be amazed at the huge amount of stuff people take onto the vaporetto. Go by water!
USA Tue 11/14/2006
3 Moms-Italy
In 2004 I was able with alot of travel skills to travel @ $80 per day budget in Italy. Prob not poss anymore. Suggest you select 2 cities ie. Florence and surrounding and Rome.
Really see them well and stay at lodging that Rick STeves recomends. Thats a good start.
JS
USA Tue 11/14/2006
Bologna hotels
There are several inernet sites that have hotel info. Just google "hotel Bologna Italy"
Also, you want to make reservations right away for May. We are staying there in May, and I made reservations in Aug. It was difficult. Bologna is a huge convention town, and hotel room get sold out quickly!
USA Tue 11/14/2006
3 Moms to Italy
By far the best way to travel from OH to Italy is by air. Get a good guidebook to help you decide what to do after you get there.
Jake
USA Tue 11/14/2006
Italy-3 Mom's
Hi Donna/Laurie/Luanne,
I think we need a little more info to be able to help you. Which cities/regions are you visiting? How many days is each?
USA Tue 11/14/2006
Boeing 767
Kelly,
You didn't say what type of plane you flew on to Hawaii. I have flown coach many times on a Boeing 767-300. The coach section is large and I don't believe you would get that closed in feeling. Sitting in the center section perhaps on an isle so that you can get up and move about without disturbing anyone would also help you. Good luck!
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Tue 11/14/2006
Boeing 767-300
A valuable resource for questions about your seat on a plane is seatguru.com. They have layouts for all the major airlines and notes about each seat. All airlines are able to customize the interior of their planes so the coach seating on one airline may not be the same as the coach seating on another, even if they are the same plane. I admire you though, I know many people who would love to travel but don't because they are claustrophobic or scared of flying. Way to go!
Katharine
Seattle, WA USA Tue 11/14/2006
Boeing 767-300/ER
Sorry....that's 767-300/ER.
Kelly <email>
Arnold, MO USA Tue 11/14/2006
Boeing 767-300/EUR
Okay, this probably sounds like a stupid question, but bear with this 'claustraphobic' person. For my trip to Amsterdam/Germany/Austria/Italy next year, I will have to pay 7000 above the tour price to fly business class. I wanted to fly this class because I wanted the space around me. That is alot of money. The travel agent told me that the plane is a Boeing 767-300/EUR. I'm wondering if anyone here has flown this in coach. If closed in spaces don't bother you, it won't help me to hear 'oh, it's not that bad.' I flew to Hawaii two years ago and that 8 hour flight made me feel closed in (it was business class, but the business class portion of the plane was walled in, adding to the claustrophobic feeling). If you have flown on one of these Boeing planes and can tell me how much room there is in coach, I would appreciate it. I know since 9/11 people might question this, but I don't want to land in Europe feeling shaken up. The only plus is that it is an overnight flight, so I might be able to sleep through it. Thanks for your help. Kelly
Kelly <email>
Arnold, MO USA Tue 11/14/2006
Bologna, Italy
We are traveling through Italy next May and wanted to spend a few days in Bologna but Rick Steves' never mentions it in his travel books. Can anyone recommend a place to stay that is reasonable for two (preferable less than 190 a night). Thanks.
Lisa
Duluth, Mn USA Tue 11/14/2006
This applies only around tourist sites. If you were to go where I go the only one who speaks English is me!! Get off the beaten path and enjoy the country. Take an English/Italian dictionary and use lots of hand signs. You'll do great and have a ball. PS I do speak Italian so it helps.
Marianna
USA Tue 11/14/2006
Foreign Languages
I was stationed in Germany for a number of years and learned a bit of the language. But, when we toured outside Germany, we took a Berlitz basic phrase book and managed. That approach did lead to some interesting experiences.
We were traveling down through southern France and northern Italy. When we arrived in San Giminano, Italy, we asked the hotel clerk if he spoke English? No. Deutsch? Nein. Then he asked us if we spoke French. The correct answer was no but instead, having just came from France, we asked for a room in French. The remainder of our 4-5 day stay, everyone at the hotel spoke to us in French. We knew neither enough French nor Italian to tell them that they might just as well have spoken to us in their native tongue.
Gary Mc
Salt Lake City, USA Tue 11/14/2006
MILAN TRAIN STATION
The two companies shown on the official website of Malpensa Airport (www.sea-aeroportimilano.it) as running bus services to Centrale station show the time from the airport to be 50 minutes, not 30.
USA Tue 11/14/2006
Italy
3 40ish single moms traveling to Italy Oct/Nov 2007 for 10 days...budget minded. Any ideas on the best way to travel?
Donna/Laurie/Luanne
Columbus, OH USA Tue 11/14/2006
Winter Dining in Venice
My family and I will be in Venice January 1-3. Most "romantic" restaurant recommendations describe outside canal dining, probably best experienced in the warmer months. Can anyone suggest wonderful WINTER places to have dinner, either inside (or in a heated tent)? I am looking for relatively inexpensive, traditional Venetian cooking, in a wonderful historic atmosphere. Thanks!
USA Tue 11/14/2006
LEFT LUGGAGE
Vincent; yes there is still left luggage in some RR stations and some air terminals.
You wont know for sure until you get there. That facility may be there today and gone tomorrow.
After reading travelers comments on them, one would know that some of them are being closed every few months for security reasons.
USA Tue 11/14/2006
VENICE BY LAND/SEA
I would take the bus. It is faster, and you will be in Venice much sooner. It is also less money. You are right, you will probably need to take a vaporetto from Piazzale Roma to wherever you're staying. The vaporetto ride is wonderful too.
Linda <email>
USA Tue 11/14/2006
MILAN TRAIN STATION
JF; Getting to the Central RR station is easy.
Just ask someone in the air terminal where to catch the bus.
It stops outside a door on the south side of the building.
Just walk across the sidewalk to the curb and board it. It ‘s only a 30 minute ride.
USA Tue 11/14/2006
RS IRELAND TOUR
Charlie......you will have plenty of time to plan your stay after you learn which hotel RS will use next year. It may be a different hotel than the one used in the past.
USA Tue 11/14/2006
Paris to Venice
The 8 am train from Paris to Venice stops in Turin and requires a train change in Milan, arriving mid-afternoon. Then there is a three hour train ride from Milan to Venice. Either Turin or Milan would be an interesting stopover. I would recommend Milan because you will avoid a missed connection as I did this year. There are several trains daily from Milan to Venice.
Swan
USA Tue 11/14/2006
Re: Lesvos, Spring
I have not been to Lesbos specifically, but generally mid April through May is a good time to visit. Lesvos is a large enough island that it will be gearing up for tourists, as well as serving the local population, so availability of hotels and restaurants will be good. Much before April, I would check on availability. Also be aware that Easter (Orthodox) is a major event in Greece, most of Athens heads to home towns to be with family. This offers a neat experience, but disrupts travel, hotels, etc.; so make preparations.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 11/14/2006
Anyone agree with Henry James...
... who wrote that Venice is best approached by sea? Those of you who have taken the Alilaguna boat from San Marco airport-- was the view worth the extra time and money (compared to the much cheaper and faster buses to Piazalle Roma)?
Either way, we'll have to transfer to the Vaporetto on the Grand Canal. Or is Zattere to Campo S. Barnaba walkable (with luggage)?
NYC, Tue 11/14/2006
Water taxi in Venice
Water taxis in Venice are really expensive. At least $100, maybe more at that time of night. Ask your hotel. Maybe the water bus is still running that late and they would know if their hotel is on the water,in case you do use a taxi.
USA Mon 11/13/2006
RS Ireland Tour
I have signed up for RS tour of Ireland next Sept. Wonder if anyone has taken that tour who remembers which hotels the tour stayed in when in Dublin? I would like to try to stay in the same hotel when arriving a few days before the tour starts. RS's office in Edmonds is not ready to release that information anytime soon.
thanks
charlie <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Mon 11/13/2006
Redeeming French Francs
After posting a question on the Graffiti wall a couple of hours ago, and getting a discouraging reply, I managed to find the following on the French Counulate, San Francisco's website:
**************************************************************************************** Tips for the American Traveler Will I be able to change French francs into euros ? Any customer with old French banknotes may: - send his French banknotes before 17/02/2012 for current series of banknotes by registered mail to : Banque de France, Caisse Générale, Service 18, 10 Boulevard Duclaux, 63407 Chamalières Cedex - France to exchange against euro baknotes if the amount is less than up to 5000EUR. The amount will be rounded at the lower 5EUR unit and a postal fee may be charged according to the amount and to the destination country. Coins are not allowed. No international legislation has been written concerning the exchange of old currencies into euros or other currencies in a non-Euro zone country after January 1, 2002. In the U.S., while some banks and exchange offices said they would change French francs to dollars until a not-yet-decided date in 2002, others mentioned that they would not accept francs after January 1. If they do accept francs, banks will be able to change banknotes but not coins. ***********************************
I guess I'll try it!
Hope this helps someone. -Erik
Erik Ohlson <email>
Morgan Hill, CA USA Mon 11/13/2006
Getting to Centrale Station
JF -- USA is correct. The train does NOT go to the Centrale Station. It is served only by a shuttle bus from the airport -- about 45 minutes or so. If you need to catch a connection at Centrale, then the shuttle is your most convenient method. Cadorna station is on the west side (more or less) of Milan. metro area.
Frank P., <email>
Centennial, CO USA Mon 11/13/2006
Paris to Venice
Whether to break your trip or take a night train is really up to you. But if you only have one day for your trip-break, I think you'd probably enjoy spending it in Marseilles or Aix or Nice than in a city in Switzerland.
That is because, in my admitedly biased view, I think there is more to see close at hand in those French towns than anything you would have time to go see in a day in Switzerland.
That said, the night train is not a bad idea.
Adam
Boston, USA Mon 11/13/2006
Lesvos, Greece
I would appreciate any ideas or thoughts about visiting Lesvos in the Spring. Most likely we will fly Athens to Lesvos and rent a car on the island.
Iowa USA Mon 11/13/2006
Malpensa to Milan
The Malpensa Express does not go to Milan Centrale station. It goes to Cadorna station. If you really want to go to Centrale, it is another 20 minutes by subway to get there. The buses from Malpensa are actually a faster way to get to Centrale by at least 10 minutes. On the other hand, if you are going somewhere else in Milan, arriving at Cadorna station could be faster.
USA Mon 11/13/2006
Paris to Venice
Vicki--One factor that will help you decide is how light a sleeper you are. Sleeping in a train couchette, at least for me, is not like being rocked in a cradle! The train noises kept me awake all night, especially every time it stopped and started. Some people love it and feel that they're saving a day of touring and a night's hotel lodging. I prefer to take an early train to a point inbetween my next destination, enjoy the countryside(catch up on my journaling, write letters, maybe visit with others) and sleep well in some town on the way. For example, next year we'll be in Aix and want to go to Florence, so we're stopping in the Cinque Terre for a couple of nights and we certainly won't mind visiting there again!
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Mon 11/13/2006
Paris to Venice
My husband and I are traveling from Paris to Venice in June. Would it be better to take a night train or stop over one night somewhere in Switzerland. Where in Switzerland would be a good place to stop?
Vicki <email>
Rocklin, Ca USA Mon 11/13/2006
Milan train station and Malpensa express info..
Hey there, my wife and i just returned (less than a week) from italy and flew out of Milan. First of all, do you have the Rick Steves Italy 2007 book? all the information is in there and would probably make more sense than my rambling...we used it and had no problems.
After you get your luggage from the airport try to find where you can buy train tickets to the central milan train station, i believe the service is called, "The Malpensa Express", a train that leaves to and from the station and the airport. We took the train from the train station to the airport. It costs 11 euros per person. It's pretty easy and i would recommend looking at Ricks instructions in the book, especially if you are staying in Milan and planning on using the subway (which is really easy after you get the hang of it).
Ps. watch out for pick pockets at the main train station in Milan (anywhere in Italy actually), you could actually tell who they were, after a while, you just know!
Josh
Josh
Eagle River, Ak USA Mon 11/13/2006
Steve - Seriously? You are IN Paris right now and are asking people on web site based in the US how to get from one place to another IN THE CITY YOU ARE CURRENTLY IN? How about, turn to the person sitting next to you in the internet cafe and ask them, or walk down the street to a store and ask someone there, try TALKING TO THE FRENCH! Come on!
USA Mon 11/13/2006
Milan train station
I need to get from the Malpensa/Milan airport to the central train station. Has anyone done this?
JF
KY USA Mon 11/13/2006
Karen-Arles or Avignon
I prefer Arles over Avignon if given the choice no matter what time of year. Avignon is interesting and walled but there is alot more to do and see in Arles and nearby.Sometimes we just have to prioritize when there are so many greta towns/village s in an area.
JS
USA Mon 11/13/2006
Water taxi from Marco Polo airport to Venice
We will be traveling to Venice in April, 2007. British Airways arrives at Marco Polo aiport at 10 PM. We have booked reservations at Locanda La Corte, and are told that water taxis run all night and will bring us right to their door. Has anybody tried to get to Venice at night on water taxi? Has anybody stayed at Locanda la Corte? Does the water taxi go directly to their door? Thanks!
Carolyn Cochran <email>
Anacortes, WA USA Mon 11/13/2006
How to redeem French Francs ?
HELP ! I just found a bunch of French Francs - 1,200 of them! How can these be converted to Dollars?
I had kept these for another visit to France & they went to Euros!
-Erik Ohlson <email>
Morgan Hill, CA USA Mon 11/13/2006
Left Luggage
Last time I was in Munich (2 years ago) there was a huge locker area for checked luggage. I don't remember exactly where in the station it was, I just remember that it was downstairs.
NYC, USA Mon 11/13/2006
Re: Le Marais to CDG
Buy a ticket for E8.10 that will take you all the way on the Metro and RER. Depending upon which station is closest to where you are, take the Metro to either Chatelet Les Halles or Gare du Nord. Transfer to the RER B and, depending upon which terminal you'll be departing from, take the RER to either CDG 1 or CDG 2 TGV. Note: the RER B line divides northeast of Paris so be sure you get on a train that is going to CDG. One more thing. The ride on the RER B from Chatelet Les Halles to CDG takes 45 minutes (a few minutes less from Gare du Nord, of course).
Tim
Minot, ND USA Mon 11/13/2006
Le Marais to CDG
Hey...I am in Paris right now. Just wondering if anyone knew the best way to get from Le Marais to CDG airport.
Thanks
Steve
Paris via Sonoma County, CA USA Mon 11/13/2006
Left luggage
According to the latest station maps I can find for Munich Hbf, one on the Munich transit website (www.mvv-muenchen.de), the other on the Baverian regional transit website (www.bayern-takt.de), there are lockers and maybe a luggage check room (Gepäck-aufbewahrung) on the northern side of the main station building at the end of the platforms, adjacent to the Reisezentrum.
<email>
USA Mon 11/13/2006
Sharing on a night train
You may want to consider buying up the enitre t6 couchette for yourselves. You can use the extra bunks for storing your bags.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 11/13/2006
Sharing on a night train
My family - myself, husband and two teenagers - girl 13 & boy 15 planned to travel from Paris to Milan on the night train in a month. We have been advised that apart from a T6 couchette the train is booked out. I feel uncomfortable about sharing with others particularly with the kids. I also snore somewhat! Can anyone give me any experiences in a similar situation? Are there other options for this trip? Thanks in advance.
Robyn <email>
Australia Mon 11/13/2006
Costa del Sol in December
My husband and I are getting ready to spend 13 days in Marbella and then a few days in Madrid on our way home. I am worried about what to pack due to the weather and wanting to pack as lightly as possible. Suggestions on what to pack and see while we are there?
Caryn C-D
Milton, WA USA Sun 11/12/2006
Left luggage??
Is there such a thing as "left luggage" any more?
We will have several hours to kill in Munich in January. It would be such a relief to leave the luggage at the main railway station, spend the time wandering in Munich, than sitting in the airport for 5-6 hours.
Any suggestions?
Ciao
Vincent
Vincent <email>
Melbourne, Vic Australia Sun 11/12/2006
Switzerland
I agree also...we stayed in Murren this past July and loved it. We stayed at Hotel Eiger in Murren and it was wonderful. Can't say enough good things about the hotel... Murren and Hotel Eiger were highlights of our month long trip.
Susan
San Francisco, USA Sun 11/12/2006
Switzerland
I agree with the prevoius post. Spend your time in Wengen or Murren (I prefer Wengen, stayed at Hotel Eiger) and last day in Luzern. We also spent our last night in Luzern and got to Zurich airport with no trouble.
www.eiger-wengen.ch
Paul
Paul
Netcong, NJ USA Sun 11/12/2006
Switzerland
Bypass Interlaken, spend your nights in either Murren or Wengen. Do not do a daytrip to Lucerne. Instead spend your last night in Luzern and take the direct train from Luzern to Zurich Airport the next morning. It takes about 1 hour.
Tim
USA Sun 11/12/2006
Avignon or Arles in July?
Has anyone stayed in Avignon during July? Rick indicates that it is pricier than Arles any time, and that in July with the theater festival even more so. On the other hand, would being there for a couple nights enhance the enjoyment of all the extra goings-on, without having to take the train back and forth? Any and all other comments/opinions for the area are welcome!
Karen
USA Sun 11/12/2006
A different view on Switzerland
If you really have a few days to spend in the Oberland in addition to your trip to Lucerne, you should consider basing yourself in Murren or Wengen, depending on which side of the valley seems most interesting to you.
Interlaken is a great place to buy supplies and get money and catch trains, but if you are traveling all that way to see the mountains, why not sleep there too? Nothing like waking up where you want to be.
Adam
Boston, USA Sun 11/12/2006
Switzerland
I think you are better off basing yourself in Interlaken. If you stay in Murren, you will have to make your way down to Interlaken to catch your daytrip trains anyway. Be advised that in May the snow and ice is just beginning to melt, so you hiking opportunities by be a little bit limited; but there is still a lot of hiking available at the lower elevations. According to the swiss rail website, Stuttgart to Interlaken is a 5 hour journey with 2 or 3 changes depending on which train you take. Rick's Switzerland guidebook can give you good advice on accomodation and most everything else.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 11/12/2006
a few days in Switzerland
I am tacking on 5 days onto a business trip to Germany that ends in Stuttgart. My wife and I plan to travel by train from Stuttgart to Interlachen(?) on Sat May 26 - and from Murren/Interlachen(?) to Zurich on Wed May 31 to catch my Thursday morning flight home. My plans are to visit Lucerne, Interlachen and spend a couple of nights in the Berner Oberland.
One thought is to HQ in Interlachen and take a day trip to Lucerne, via train and then day trips to the BO.
Another option is to stay in Muerren for a couple of nights.
So I am looking for advice on basing in Interlachen, or trying to find a place in Murren. Also trying to find out travel times from Stuttgart to Interlachen by train.
Any help, advice, websites, hotel advice would be appreciated
Jackson
Jackson D <email>
Chesapeake, VA USA Sun 11/12/2006
Slovak Republic
Hi, we will be exploring the east half of the Slovak Republic by car in May, I am looking for recommendations for a good guidebook(s). We already own Lonely planets 2004 edition of C&S Republics that We used for the Czech side 2 years ago. How easy is it to find private rooms (zimmer? sobe?) and what price ranges can we expect for a double? Thanks, John & Robin
JOHN & ROBIN <email>
Atascadero, Ca USA Sat 11/11/2006
English spoken in Italy
I have been to Italy many times and have never had trouble finding someone that speaks English. All Italian children take English in school and most of them speak it as well as we do. You will not have trouble with language.
USA Sat 11/11/2006
Vejer de la Frontera and Los Canos de Meca advice
Hi. If anyone has been to Vejer or Los Canos, Spain, during the summer recently, can you please email me? I am getting so much conflicting information that I am stumped. Just when I LOVED my plan I came upon a number of dire warnings about everything from scorching heat to screaming winds, traffic clogged roads, sandfly attacks at the beach or swarms of mosquitos in town! This was after I had read glowing reports of heaven on earth...I am either reading too much or else no one who writes in English has been in the same place on the same day. I think I would be very happy to visit, the hill town and the coastal beaches seem so lovely, even with some combination of above (hopefully not all). But if anyone can help me sort fact from rumor I would be very grateful. Thanks! Diane
Diane <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA Sat 11/11/2006
Marco Polo, early
Others have written in a panic as well over this issue- have you contacted your hotel in Venice? Water taxis are one option, but pricey. If your hotel can't help you ahead of time, there are also hotels (look online) right near the airport, on land- you could go as late as possible the night before your flight back to the US.
USA Sat 11/11/2006
English in Italy
Have family in Italy. North in Modena in a small town. In the tourist areas, for obvious reasons, all speak English. The small towns there will be very few. However, it usually is not a problem. Use a phrase guide book. You will not have a problem.
Jeff
NJ USA Sat 11/11/2006
Yet another comment on Travel Agents
Vicky, not only can you do your accommodations yourself, but you should. T.A.s don't work with the small, family-owned places that are both the most charming and most economical. Look at karenbrown.com or specialplacestostay.com (or buy the books) and you will find loads of lodging options. We have been perfectly satisfied with every place we found through those sources. One example: in 2005 we stayed at a small, very pretty hotel in a village in Alsace found in Karen Brown's France B&B. 48 euros/night for a superior double (it had a balcony), including a very good breakfast. These days most hotels and inns, even the smallest, have web sites, making it very easy to reserve. My own preference is to have practically everything pinned down before I leave; but, depending on your destinations and time of travel, you might even want to wing it.
USA Sat 11/11/2006
English in Italy
Spent a month in Italy, absolutely no problem with anyone not speaking english.
Canada Sat 11/11/2006
Transportation to Airport
I wouldn't panic about getting to the airport. You have to believe that people do this all the tme. When we've had early flights, we just have taken taxis or shuttles arranged by the hotel. I'm sure that Venice has this too...although one of the taxis could take the form of a boat.
Karen
MN USA Sat 11/11/2006
Transportation Help Needed...Big Time!!!
I really need help - I need transportation on a Thursday morning from Venice to Marco Polo airport. The issue I'm having is that our flight leaves at 6:10 AM!!!! The earliest bus/boat I can find gets us to the airport at 5:19....I don't think that is enough time....Any suggestions
Suzanne
West Allis, WI USA Sat 11/11/2006
Travel Agents
Several years back (before I did all of my trip planning with the help of the internet and Rick Steves Guides), I went to a travel agent. I was so excited about planning our first trip to Paris because of the exchange rate at that time. However, the travel agent totally dissed any hotels lower than 3*, and gave my only super expensive options. I left angry, not believing her judgement. However, she was enough to discourage my husband. We never ended up going until 12 years later (when I found the evidence from Rick Steves Guides, to prove to my husband that going to Europe wouldn't bankrupt us. We've since been to Europe 5 times in the past 5 years...all planned completly by me. I like having total control over every aspect of the trip. My sister-in-law allowed AAA to plan her European trip and she was very disappointed with the mediocre, expensive accomodations they arranged. If someone is making $$$ off of you, then their judgement is biased. Our family travels well on a tight budget. The more "handlers" you have, the more commisions you're paying. Don't let other people tell you what to do, unless you really don't care and have the extra money to pay the "hidden" costs. This site is all about people helping people...for FREE!!!
USA Sat 11/11/2006
Italian - easy breezy
If you are traveling in the cities like Venice, Rome, Milan, Florence, and even the "normal" tourist sites like towns in the Cinque Terre....the hotel staff, resturant staff, retail store staff speak English.
Traveling in Italy without a lot of Italian is easy breezy. if one person doesn't speak English, they will find someone that does.
This comes from 5 trips to Italy, including Sicily.
it is always polite to have a few words of Italian at your ready - thanks, Please, hello, etc. Rick Steves recommends that. A guide book with a few basic phrases is always handy. You can always point at the book to show the local what you want to ask.
So, Professor, I disagree!
USA Sat 11/11/2006
Travel agent
Vicki, while I mostly agree with Jack that you shouldn't have to make firm hotel reservations with the travel agent before booking your flight, too many people have suffered from not planning enough details before buying their plane tickets.
How many people have written into this site frantically looking for overnight accommodations near an airport for a 6 AM flight, or asking how to get from Heathrow to Gatwick for a 1/2 hour connection. Others have planned a trip from, say, Germany to Italy and planned to take a night train from Munich to Venice without even knowing how to get reservations or if the trains are already sold out.
But, you don't want a travel agent to make your reservations. She will book you into the equivalent of the Epcot center, where it looks like Germany, but is more like the U.S. As long as you avoid the online booking services, on your own you can find less expensive accommodations that are more culturally authentic.
<email>
USA Sat 11/11/2006
Italy by yourself
"Most locals speak English"? Really?
In it's 2005 report on the latest survey of language abilities in Europe, as reported on its official website, www.europa.eu, the EU found that 71% of Italian could not speak English! If it's not the locals, where are they. Just because you find a few that do speak English doesn't mean they all do.
Professor
USA Sat 11/11/2006
Vicki in Italy and France
Do what we did. Use a local travel agent in Italy to help book the next leg of your trip.
We arrived with only the first night's hotel reservations. Leaving our trip open made it so much fun to plan on the fly.
Travel agents are easy to find - they don't charge a commission as far as I can tell - and are very helpful.
We used one to book a trip to Mt Vesuvio and Pompei, instead of trying to figure out the trains and buses. It was wonderful!
Quit stressing about this trip.
Remember, nothing is set in stone. If you want to spend more time in a certain city...go for it. If you get to a certain city and find you've seen everything in 2 days - tell the hotel you are leaving, and go on to the next adventure!
you are really over thinking this. Take a deep breath. You've already decided what cities you want to use as a base/visit. Use that as your start, but remember, once you get to Italy, you can live la'vita and go with your whims!
USA Sat 11/11/2006
Travel agent
Vicky- Rick said it best, get a plane ticket and auto rental through a travel agent and nothing else.The agent wants you to book rooms and tours with her(him).You can do that yourself easily after you get your plane tickets.best regards.
Jack <email>
Sheboygan, Wi USA Sat 11/11/2006
Vicki - Advice
My husband and I traveled to Paris in the spring of 2005 with our daughter who was 17 at the time so I would like to make a suggestion in regard to traveling with a teenager. If you share the researching and planning of your trip with your daughter so that she has direct input, you will both have a better time. Half the fun of taking a trip is in the planning. Speaking of planning, it sounds like it would be in your best interest to find another travel agent or make your own arrangements. A travel agent should be giving you choices and offering you advice. It is not her job to tell you what to do and express displeasure if you don't follow her plan.
You will have a wonderful time visiting France and Italy!
USA Sat 11/11/2006
Re: Dresden
Yes, it's certainly possible. There is frequent train service between Berlin and Dresden, some direct and some with changes.
For example you could take a direct InterCity train, leaving Berlin at 07:42 and arriving in Dresden at 09:53. Leave Dresden at 20:03 on a direct InterCity train, arriving in Berlin at 22:18. The cost is E32.00 each way.
See www.bahn.de for timetables and fares.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 11/11/2006
Flooding in Venice
I would NOT walk in flood water in Venice. The places you are walking on are not flat, they are multi level almost and you would be in danger of taking a fall. It is usually for only short periods of time and we just stayed on the wood walk things or didn't go where there was flood water. Don't waste your packing space on boots.
USA Sat 11/11/2006
Dresden
Does anyone know if it is possible to do a day trip from
Berlin to Dresden? Thanks
M.K. B. <email>
Wesr Bend, Wi USA Sat 11/11/2006
November/December Flooding in Venice
The local guide we had in Venice 10/22/06 told us that the flooding gets more frequent (& higher water) during the next few months & smart tourists bring boots with them. She said not a good idea to plan on buying rainboots in Venice because stores that might carry them sell out fast.
Jean
Portland, USA Fri 11/10/2006
Venice Flooding
A few years ago I met a tour guide who carried her wading boots in a day-pack. It's kind of fun to walk on the raised platforms instead of bothering with special footwear.
USA Fri 11/10/2006
Vienna rooms
Karen--I can't find a listing for Maria's rooms in Rick's 2004 book (Germany Austria & Switzerland) either. I would guess that there is a reason for a hotel or rooms not to be included...that's one of many reasons it's so nice to have Rick's annual reviews. Just a thought. Good luck on your search.
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Fri 11/10/2006
Holland Day Trips - Newbie
This will be my first time in Europe. My husband and I will be on a sort of working vacation, working for him and vacation for me. We’ll be based in The Hague for about 11 days and a few of those days I’ll be on my own. Does anyone have any suggestions on what to do and/or where to go for short day trips?
Thanks!
Cris
Houston, TX USA Fri 11/10/2006
Vienna rooms
For many years, Rick has recommended Maria Pribojszki as a "grandmother" in Vienna to rent a room from. We have reservations with her later this month, and suddenly find she is no longer in his book (2006). Does anyone know why or have any experience with her accommodations?
Karen <email>
Colorado Springs, CO USA Fri 11/10/2006
Re: TravelZoo
TravelZoo is basically a newsletter service that lists travel deals offered by various consolidators, etc. I believe that the one you're interested in is offered by go-today.com, right? Although I haven't booked a trip through go-today, I've read many good comments about their deals.
Airfare and hotel packages can be very good deals. For example, my wife and I went to London for ten days in 2002 on a Northwest Airlines World Vacations package (airfare & hotel with breakfast) from the Midwest that cost us less than $700/person.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 11/10/2006
Help Needed
My advice is to go ahead and book the flights. In fact, I would book them directly with the airline. Your travel agent has a vested interest (commissions) in being the one that makes the reservations for ground travel, hotels, etc. Lock in your flights and worry about the other reservations later since you have plenty of time. In fact, a lot of us go to Europe without a set itinerary and enjoy not being locked in to a schedule or hotel.
Jeff
USA Fri 11/10/2006
Help needed
I have totally lost it now. Just as I'm ready to finally book my flight with the travel agent she says shes not happy with what we are doing. She is concerned that I booked a flight without an itinerary yet. However, I have the total dates of when I want to leave and return. I figured I had plenty of time to figure out where we would go and for how long (we will have 23 nights) once I got the flight. Well she doesn't like that and now I am confused.
My daughter and I have planned on going to the south of france and italy(milan, venice, florence, rome and amalfi coast for 24 days, then meet up with my husband and son in London. Can anyone give me advice as to how long is reasonable to stay in each place? Should we eliminate going somewhere? My daughter is 17.
Any help would be appreciated.
Vicki <email>
USA Fri 11/10/2006
TravelZoo
Have any of you used TravelZoo for travel to Paris or London? Right now there is a deal on round trip to Paris for $750 round trip and six nights hotel stay, plus breakfast. Are there any downsides to this? It seems too good to be true. Merci!
Josie
Phoenix, AZ USA Fri 11/10/2006
Sulfates in Wine/Champagne
TMB - thanks for the answer. That really helps, and puts forth a really good argument about always getting Dom Peringon!
Bartley
Boston, MA USA Fri 11/10/2006
Shipping packages home from France
We shipped things home from France last year. The Post Office sells prepaid cardboard boxes which can be filled with as much as you like - no weight restrictions. They come in different sizes and are very sturdy. Just make sure you buy an International one, not a domestic or Eu one. I do not remember the price, but, while not cheap, it was not outlandish and the counter person helped us pack it and made sure it was secure. It took a couple of weeks to come from Villefranche-sur-Mer to Western Canada.
Iain
Edmonton, Ab Canada Fri 11/10/2006
RE: Sulphates
Sulphates occur naturaly on the skins of grapes, and So2 (sulphur dioxide) is also a natural byproduct of the feremetation process... so wines for US vs Euro consumption would not have more or less since its part of the process. Many people think its the sulphates - but in reality it could be the tannins. Often youre eating much more than you think found in food products like salads and vegies to keep green, in canned pineapple, etc. Some people react to the Tannins in wine - more common in reds since its in the skins and longer time in barrels (wood tannins). One other item to think about is "quality" of your champagne. The higher the quality - the finer the bubbles. Cheap stuff has big bubbles... and some belive its these larger bubbles of CO2 that affect "the headache" factor, together with the quality of how its made. You may have heard how top-shelf high quality spirits are less likely to give headaches (with moderation of course) than cheap distillants - since the $$ ones are more "pure". But to make a long story not too long - try to stick to good quality traditionally made champagne (mothode champagnois) and also eat something when you drink - and see if that makes a difference for you. Also try oto see if Chardonnay based (blank de blanc) vs Pinot Noir based (blanc de noir) as sometimes is a white vs red tannin reaction (not the sulphates!) hope that helps!
TMB
CA USA Fri 11/10/2006
Sulfates in Wine/Champagne
Hello Folks. Do any of you understand the differences between French/Italian/Portugese wine/champagne distributed to the US and that in Europe? Is it true that wine distributed to this country has sulfates in it and the eurpoean wines/champgnes don't? And if that is the case, what does that mean? I drink wine in the US and always get a head ache, especially with champagne (or sparkling wines) and when we were in France/Italy and Portugal last month, I tried the wine and was never thus afflicted. Any thoughts? Thanks!
Bartley
Boston, MA USA Fri 11/10/2006
Re: Paris Air and Space Museum
I haven't been to the Air and Space Museum, but I'll give you transportation choices as found in my Lonely Planet Paris guidebook.
Bus No 350 from Gare du Nord, Gare de l'Est or Porte de la Chappelle or bus No 152 from Porte de la Villette (stop: Musee de l'Air et de l'Espace).
Metro line No 7 to Porte de la Villette or La Courneuve and then bus No 152.
RER Line B3 or B5 (station: Le Bourget).
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 11/10/2006
Flower Pageant in Amsterdam Area
My sister and I are planning our trip to Amsterdam to coincide with the bulb district's Flower Pageant (Bloemencorso) which travels through the bulb district, from Noordwijk to Haarlem. Does anyone have any experience with how crowded this event is, best viewing spot, whether the illuminated night event in Noordwijk or the stationary display in Haarlem are not-to-be-missed, etc.? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.
Stacey
FL USA Fri 11/10/2006
Italy by yourself
Easy breezy. Most locals speak English. Menus are in both Italian and English.
Italy is over run with tourist, espcially the places you mention.
You certainly don't need a tour to visit Rome, Florence, the CT, etc.
Trains are easy to use. Read up on sights to see, make a check list and go.
Worst case, follow another group of tourists flocked together following some guide carrying an umbrella or stick with a flag on it...they'll lead to you the "important things to see"!
USA Fri 11/10/2006
Kings Cross
Whenever I visit London I usually stay in the Kings Cross/Euston area. I've never found the area to be dangerous or unsavory; nor have I heard of any reports that it was. The only downside is the busy street traffic and noise from Euston Rd. BTW the constrution around Kings Cross station is the extention of the Eurostar line from Waterloo to Kings Cross.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Fri 11/10/2006
Kings Cross
The last time I was in London was 2 years ago. (That long? Sigh...) At the time, there was lots of construction in that area (road, as well as building,) so they've clearly making improvements. I always felt perfectly safe there, day or evening.
By the way, the only pickpocket I have ever encountered was in fashionable Kensington. (I had a terrible cold, and all he got was a handful of damp tissues.)
Read the hotel reviews on Tripadvisor. They're often very informative about the area, as well as the hotel.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Fri 11/10/2006
Paris Space and Air Museum
Has anyone gone to the Paris Space and Air Museum at the Aeroport Le Bourget? Having difficulty finding transportation by train or ideally would be able to find a day trip which is unlikely. Thanks for any help.
USA Fri 11/10/2006
Re: Mark, Italy Trip
If you have travelled independently in the other countries, Italy will be a breeze. Language is not an issue, the trains are great, and in April, crowds will be less of an issue, unless you hit Easter or another Holiday. I would definitely skip the car, your destinations are not car friendly. Maybe if you have a free day around Florence, find a rental on the outskirts of town and cruise Tuscany.
Paul <email>
IA USA Fri 11/10/2006
Safety arround Kings Cross Tube Station
Does anyone have information on the area arround the Kings Cross Tube Station? My husband and myself, retired Sr. Citizens, plan to visit London next spring. Because of a limited budget, location of Hotels near the Kings Cross Station, and the convenient access to our arrival and departure stations (Euston and Liverpool Street Station) we are considering the Kings Cross area. We have traveled often in Europe and England and do not expect luxury. We are quite used to tiny rooms and extra tiny bathrooms. My concern is safety, as I have read several negitive reports but I did read somewhere that the area is imporving. I could use input from anyone who knows the area.
Susan <email>
Bartlett, TN USA Fri 11/10/2006
Packing for Scandinavia
I took RS' Scandinavia tour in July of this year and added in Finland and Estonia. We hit a record setting heatwave. However, after reading RS book on Scandinavia, I packed (as usual) my very lightweight/hooded raincoat and took along (as usual) a pair of waterproof walking shoes. I have been on 4 of RS tours in 4 years and have never taken an umbrella, but then again I was raised in the Seattle area where most locals don't use umbrellas - just gortex.
Charlie Carter <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Thu 11/09/2006
Locating Florence Dream B & B
To anyone headed for Florence Dream Domus B&B in Florence: it is not marked by a sign, only the name on the doorbell. It is located where Via Taddei deadends on Via de Ginori. Also, ask Geoffrey to scramble an egg for you if you're dying for some protein!
Karen <email>
USA Thu 11/09/2006
Boots, or not?
We're going to Venice later this month, and I'm wondering whether to bring rubber boots. If we do run into acqua alta, it would be fun to be able to walk through it instead of being confined to the narrow platforms. However, what do you do with them after the tide recedes? What do the locals do-- carry regular shoes to change into, or just wear the boots the rest of the day?
If I bring regular waterproof winter boots (instead of rubber rain boots), are most indoor places such as stores and museums overheated?
Fiona
NYC, USA Thu 11/09/2006
Berlin
We are going to Berlin in April. Any tips on must-sees, places to stay etc..
Thanks
Mary Kay <email>
West Bend, Wi USA Thu 11/09/2006
RE: Mark - Italy Trip
Mark - I think you would have no problem doing this without a guide. My husband and I took our first trip to Italy this August. We were there for 2 1/2 weeks (Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Pisa, Venice) and although it took some research on my end (Rick's books + other sources) we had a great time. Feel free to email me if you have questions.
Kelly <email>
AL USA Thu 11/09/2006
Shipping Packages from France
I am wondering what would be the least expensive way to ship packages home from Paris
Bill Lindsey
Beaumont, TX USA Thu 11/09/2006
Packing for Scandinavia
When we were in Bergen, our walking tour guide told us that they have, on average, only 85 days a year of sunshine. Does that answer your question? Bring some rain gear. On the other hand, we had some delightful, warm weather all over Scandinavia in the month of July.
USA Thu 11/09/2006
Scandinavia Trip packing list additions?
Quick question for any recent ETBD Tour folks or travelers to Scandinavia in May/June time: I wondered if any of you would add anything in particular to Ricks Packing List for these areas (incl Bergen & north area, Oslo, Stockholm, Copenhagen/Aero) – is usually warm/cool/wet/dry?
I try to keep up with the general “extra” packing items on this board– but was curious for northern-area specifics from recent visitors in May/June! Wanted to make sure if a poncho/rain umbrella was needed or if layers would be fine?... anything to add to my hiking/mountaineering style clothes that work well for travel? Thanks!
PS – did anyone pref. Rough Guide or Lonely Planet in addition to Ricks guide for this area? Thanks!
TMB
Newport Beach, CA USA Thu 11/09/2006
Italy Trip, April 2007
Hello Fellow Travellers and Rick Steve Fans,
I need your help!
We (3, maybe 4) are planning a trip to Italy for April 2007 (Spring Break, here in Maryland). We have travelled to Europe before (Paris, London & Ireland), rented a car (Netherlands-Belgium-France) and feel comfortable using public transportation.
BUT: For some reason I feel the need to use a Guided Tour on a 9 or 10-Day Trip to Italy.
WHY? I don't know! I assume a car is not necessary in Rome, Florence, Cinque Terra and Venice, but I feel confident driving in between. Could it be the language? Could it be the long lines for people NOT in Tour Groups?
Does anyone have any experiences/advice/hand-holding/slap-upside- the-head/etc. to offer to help?
Thanks!
(feel free to e-mail your advice)
Mark E. <email>
Baltimore, MD USA Thu 11/09/2006
winter walking shoes
Any advice about walking shoes for a 3 week Jan. trip to England and Italy. I want to take only one pair of shoes and they need to be weatherproof as it will probably rain.
Linda <email>
murrieta, ca USA Thu 11/09/2006
Passports on Night Train
They will wake you up at each border check, so if you want to be undisturbed you should invest in a sleeper car. The porter will take your passport, and he will do the work for you, giving you the night to sleep.
I took the train from Lake Como to Munich and was not disturbed.
I guess it didn't matter if I were to be disturbed, though. Not used to sleeping in a train, the rocking motion kept me up all night. Then, when pulling into a station, the screeching motion woke me up. I probably would have been better to sleep in a chair rather than a bed. Oh well it was stil a great adventure.
Michelle
Anaheim, ca USA Thu 11/09/2006
Oh, and as for wine in spain...
Oh, and Kim regarding wine... during lunch we'd order the pre fixed menu. That typically includes an appetizer, an entree, dessert and drink, which can include the house wine.
You won't find a shortage of Spanish wine, and when you go tapas hopping the waitstaff can recommend their favorite too.
As for beer... I didn't really drink that in Spain, but I am sure you will find plenty!
USA Thu 11/09/2006
weather in Barcelona & Madris, March/April
I was in Barcelona and Madrid in from St. Patrick's day week and up unti Holy Week.
The weather was cool and rainy. I brought an all weather jacket with a hood, and a compact umbrella, which I tossed in my day pack.
If you wear layers you should be fine.
USA Thu 11/09/2006
Varying carry-on regulations
Maybe everyone is more savvy about airport regulations, but for the rest of us: Not all airports have the same rules. London Heathrow does not allow the carry-on quart size baggie of small containers of liquid, etc. that is now allowed at SFO, in Frankfurt, and elsewhere. They are very capricious in what they will allow. Not a tiny (less than 1 oz) jar of eye cream but a full size bottle of liquid deodarant was o.k., but no toothpaste. Also, only 1 carry on item. Not a carry on AND your purse. One item. Plan carefully.
Karen <email>
SANTA ROSA, CA USA Wed 11/08/2006
MORE WELCOME
Andy....in 19 years of travel around the world I have never had negative comments on our country.
Most knowledgeable travelers are envious of us and our life style.
Based on my experience I doubt that anyone will even mention our election or our government to you.
Don’t worry about it. I have found that most people are interested in how much money we spend in their stores, hotels and restaurants. They are not interested in politics.
Don’t believe everything you read in newspapers of the world.
USA Wed 11/08/2006
TRAVEL THROUGH ITALY
Vicki.....if you look at a map of Italy you can determine the best route.
I would go to Amalfi Coast first, then north to Venice, Florence and Milano.
Then on to southern France and fly out of Nice or another city. Air fare should cost you less that way.
That route would prevent you from back-tracking.
When you buy your RR ticket, ask the clerk about routing and train schedule.
USA Wed 11/08/2006
Travel through Italy
I've been trying to work out flight arrangements and have found that if I fly into Rome I save a substantial amt. of $$. My question is this. If I'm planning on seeing Milan, Vencie, Florence, Rome and Amalfi Coast and Southern France and I fly into Rome what would be the best route to go from there? Also concerned about direct train transportation to each leg. Any advice would be appreciated.
Vicki <email>
USA Wed 11/08/2006
Lois, Gift Certificate
Beware of the AAA Visa Travel Money card. They take a 7% commision on ATM withdrawals (that includes the 1% network charge). I am not sure about other Visa TM cards. Read the Terms and Conditions.
Lee
USA Wed 11/08/2006
Re: Lois, Gift Certificate
A caveat on the pre-loaded Visa TravelMoney Cards: There may be fees for each use, as well as fees if not used within a specific time period. Check the small print very carefully and make sure it's OK for international use!
http://usa.visa.com/personal/cards/prepaid/visa_travel_money.html?ep=a_cpc_google_Visa+Travel+Money
Alternatives: Euro travelers'' cheques from AAA might be a possibility - if he lives in the same city. He can sign them (not you).
Or even a pre-trip stash of euros if you can find any in your city - your bank or a AAA office ("Tip Packs").
You can buy a new neck pouch or money belt, which could be the gift - and with the gift card, cheques or euros as the "bonus." I did that with a niece traveling to Rome and she was thrilled!
USA Wed 11/08/2006
MP3 help needed
I just bought a Sandisk MP3 so I could listen to Rick's tours of Paris and listen to language tapes on the airplane. I downloaded the language lesson last night and I can't stop the lessons and restart from the same place!! Now it looks like Sandisk doesn't support this and I have to listen the whole thing again once I stop. Could someone tell me specific brands and models that have worked for them? Or give me a website where I can find this info?
Debbie
Centennial, CO USA Wed 11/08/2006
MP3 help needed
I just bought a Sandisk MP3 so I could listen to Rick's tours of Paris and listen to language tapes on the airplane. I downloaded the language lesson last night and I can't stop the lessons and restart from the same place!! Now it looks like Sandisk doesn't support this and I have to listen the whole thing again once I stop. Could someone tell me specific brands and models that have worked for them? Or give me a website where I can find this info?
Debbie
Centennial, CO USA Wed 11/08/2006
Linda
Suggestion for hotel in Samos, Greece? Taking ferry from Kusadasi to Samos and then flight to Athens. Not renting a car. What about the beach Gangou - pebbled?
USA Wed 11/08/2006
More Welcome?
At times it has been a bit uncomfortable traveling out in the world with our government so unpopular. Do you think this election will have an effect on the welcome we receive in other countries? In reading the newspapers of the world online, it sounds like people everywhere are celebrating the news.
Andy
Lincoln City, Oregon USA Wed 11/08/2006
Heathrow to Luton
There are no budget airlines that fly from Heathrow to Rome.
WARNING: easyJet flies to Rome from GATWICK, not Luton. With today's increased security screening, you need to allow five hours between scheduled landing at Heathrow and scheduled departure from Gatwick. This means you should be able to catch the 16:50 flight out of Gatwick.
Take a National Express coach (www.nationalexpress.com) directly from Heathrow to Gatwick (19.00 GBP). While the scheduled transfer time is 1hr15min, heavy traffic can double that.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 11/08/2006
Re: Lois, Gift Certificate
I am not sure of the restrictions, but you could look into a Visa Gift Card, essentially a preloaded credit card for a specific amount.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 11/08/2006
Gift Certificate
I have a friend who is retiring and taking a 2 week trip to Italy. I wanted to get him some kind of gift certificate he can use in Italy to buy what he wants. Is there such a thing and how can where can I purchase it? Thanks
Lois <email>
RI USA Wed 11/08/2006
Heathrow to Luton
Can anyone tell me the easiest and/or least expensive way to get from Heathrow to Luton? We arrive at Heathrow at 11:45am and will be flying out of Luton on Easy Jet to Rome. How much time should we allow? I haven't booked Easy Jet yet. Is there a low cost airlines out of Heathrow? My mother is travelling with me and my sister and mother is 86.
Mariann
USA Tue 11/07/2006
Online photo storage
Try Costco.com.
USA Tue 11/07/2006
Online Photo Album
Take a look at www.shutterfly.com. As far as I can tell they have unlimited free storage and it's pretty easy to use.
Jeff
USA Tue 11/07/2006
Online Photo Albums
Does anyone know of a great website to upload photos to while traveling that doesn't have a limit on the amount of space you use or require that you download their software?
I wanted to use Flickr, but they have a 20MB limit per month and that won't work for me. Any website or blog suggestions would be great! Unfortunately I won't be able to save to an IPOD.
Washington, DC USA Tue 11/07/2006
Venice and Florence Weather
Debbie,
Prepare for cold. You might get lucky, but don't count on it. A pair of gloves, a hat and/or a scarf take up very little room; and they will add great comfort if you experience the temps we did. . . 0 - 5 Celsius one mid-April day in Rome.
USA Tue 11/07/2006
Costa Del Mar
Has anyone ever been to the Costa Del Mar region of Spain? It is the costal area of Northern Spain outside of Barcelona? Was looking for areas that are nice costal and somewhat near Barcelona. Any info would be helpful.
Kim <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA Tue 11/07/2006
Weather and Beer in Spain
Hi-I am going to be going to Barcelona end of April and beginning of May 07. I would like to know what the weather is going to be like at that time? Also, I am a beer drinker and would like to know if anyone can reccomend a good beer to drink while there. I also plan of having a few glasses of wine as well. Any suggestions would be helpful
Kim
Brooklyn, NY USA Tue 11/07/2006
Jennie...Heathrow
Jennie-I would not take the chance in leaving Heathrow. By the time you get off the plane and get your luggage and then have to check in again (usually 2 hours ahead for intl flights) you are better off just staying there. Heathrow is so busy and HUGE that there is plenty to do at the airport. I am one of those people that is a stickler for being at the airport early. I would rather hang around then be late. But if you want to leave and go to Windsor jump in a cab. But Windsor is not all that special. By the time you got into London you would just have to turn and go back.
Kim
Brooklyn, NY USA Tue 11/07/2006
Weather in Venice and Florence
We are going to be in Venice in April and Florence in May. Can anyone tell me what the weather is usually like at this time of year.
debbie
NZ Mon 11/06/2006
New Years in London
We were in London one year in early December and had to layer on most of our clothes to keep warm. It was bitterly cold - but still loads of fun. One local inhabitant said "Why would you come to visit London at this time of the year?" We benefited by having no lines for anything we wanted to see. I suggest taking a thermal top to layer underneath your clothes - just in case.
Franny
Seattle, WA USA Mon 11/06/2006
To Vicki -Florence activity
The only thing I like about Florence is how easy it is to get to other places from there. It is a train center. Go to Lucca (1 hr), San Gimignano and Siena (1 Hour, use the bus). I also took the train to Venice (3 hr each way, eurostar, the first time I saw Venice, it was gorgeous). You can train to Cortona and Assisi (about 1.5 hours each, you need to change trains.) Also I have biked twice with Ibikeitaly, on the web at Ibikeitaly.com or maybe .it,and you can walk with them too, in the hills above Florence. They take you to Fiesole and to a winery/frantoio and to a great lunch. Look at some websites for things to see in each location (Lucca, etc.) and go to trenitalia.com and put in FlorenceSMN for the departure city to see train possibilities.
Linda <email>
USA Mon 11/06/2006
Packing for London in Dec.
Packing for London is easy- 2 or 3 pair of Cotton-polyester blend pants or jeans. 2 long sleeve shirts and at least 1 short sleeve to layer with them. You could pack 1 sweater insetead of 1 of the shirts. Undies and socks. Check out the "Packing Light" section on this board for more specific ideas. Have been to London 40 times- half of them in Nov./Dec. Have never been to Italy.
USA Mon 11/06/2006
New years London, Florence, Rome 2007
We are planning to go to London the day after Christmas for a week , then take the train to Florence for 3 days, then the train to Rome for 5 days. We are travelling as a family, with our 14 year old son. Any advice on how to pack for the weather ( we want to take only one bag per person), where to stay in Florence, or other advice. This is our first trip to Italy. Thanks in advance for any advice.
Linda Donnelly <email>
Murrieta, CA USA Mon 11/06/2006
South of France and Italy.
Vicki,
One more thing. If you are staying on the Amalfi coast, you might like to visit Pompeii or take a day trip to Capri.
USA Mon 11/06/2006
South of France and Italy
Vicki,
Do you have a guidebook for the areas you will visit? Rick's book highlights great places to visit.
In Florence you may want to make a reservation to visit the Uffizi Galleria and the Academia (where David is). If you like to shop, you can spend several hours at the market and in the stores just checking things out.
In the south of france you can take the train to several wonderful little towns. You can go to the beach, visit the markets, or the many museums offered.
I don't think any one person can tell you what to do. The best thing is to get a good guidebook and research the areas you are visiting. You will get many, many wonderful ideas.
Have fun.
USA Mon 11/06/2006
Amanda - Stroller
Our daughter was born in Germany; and, we lived and traveled there until she was about 2.5 years old. A light weight collapsible stroller was one of the best investments that we ever made. She had the choice of walking, riding and sightseeing, or in her case napping while we were sightseeing. It was easier on all of us. Regards,
Gary Mc
Salt Lake City, USA Mon 11/06/2006
Taverna Ulpia
Has anyone had lunch or dinner at Taverna Ulpia, overlooking Trajan's Market in Rome? I would appreciate any opinions of food quality and prices.
USA Mon 11/06/2006
Prague Hotel
Planning a trip to Prague in June and wonder if anyone can recommend a hotel
around $125 dbl with mini-bar.
Jim <email>
Kansa City, MO USA Mon 11/06/2006
Ellen- driving from Tuscany to Milan
Please clarify --where in Tuscany?
Tuscany is not a town...it's a region!
Are you driving from Florence? Siena? Volterre? Greve?
Help us help you!
USA Mon 11/06/2006
AC in Venice in June
We've been in Venice 2 times in June and had air-conditioning both times. The first trip we stayed in Hotel Kappa in Mestre in the top floor apartment. Even with 2 ac units blowing full throttle we roasted. I have pictures of my usually modest son sitting in front of the AC in nothing but his underwear.
The 2nd time was in Pensione Accademia in June and we had WONDERFUL AC. My son and me ventured out one day to the nearest supermarket and bought some Fanta Orange soda during the heat of the day. By the time we got back to the room ~ 30 minutes, we were both dripping wet with sweat from the heat and humidity. It was miserable.
By the way, I live in Knoxville, Tennessee where we are used to high humidity!
Tim
USA Mon 11/06/2006
No AC in Venice in June
I have found a great apartment available for our late June visit to Venice, but w/o air conditioning. Will 4 Seattites who aren't use to heat and humidity be miserable or is this likely tolerable?
Patty <email>
Seattle, WA USA Mon 11/06/2006
stroller in Europe
Amanda, Absolutely take a stroller. It will be much easier on all of you. You can always let him walk when it is convenient. It will be easier to keep him safe and out of trouble, and can always be used as a makeshift high chair. My grandson even slept in his occasionaly. We would tip it backwards, safely of course, so he would be almost reclining. This was just a nice umbrella type stroller.
USA Mon 11/06/2006
A Stroller for our 2 yr old?
My husband, son and I are planning a wonderful trip to Europe in April. We are bringing our 2 year old who is a very experienced traveler. I am wondering though, at his current age and weight of 30 lbs what the best method of carrying him is. Last time we had him in a backpack. He can walk great but slowly and looks at all of the rocks. Any ideas. Should we just bring a stroller?
Amanda <email>
Portland, Or USA Sun 11/05/2006
Bus to Kraków fr.Liptovsky Mikulas
What is the schedule and approximate price for the direct bus to Kraków from Liptovsky Mikulas Slovakia and how long is the journey? How does one go about reserving and purchasing tickets? Does this bus begin in Poprad or Kosice? Thanks, John & Robin
John & Robin <email>
Atascadero, Ca USA Sun 11/05/2006
Renault car lease
I have used the Renault Eurodrive lease program on three trips to Europe and I have been very satisfied. I have always selected the Laguna model and it is satisfactory and comfortable for four adults, as long as they follow the Rick Steves packing list. The car is air conditioned and has a five-speed gearbox, although an automatic transmission is available at extra cost. The diesel Laguna gets 40 miles per gallon. There are models from the mini Twingo and Clio, all the way up to a 12 passenger van. The USA representatives are based in New York, and are helpful. www.renaultusa.com
Charles A. Robinson <email>
Lodi, CA USA Sun 11/05/2006
Milan and Tuscany
We are travelling to Milan and then spending some time in Tuscany. How long would it take us to drive from Tuscany then back to Milan airport. Any suggestions on where to stay in Tuscany which would be closest to Milan.
Ellen Powell <email>
Camarillo, CA USA Sun 11/05/2006
South of France and Italy
My daughter and I have decided to travel this coming June to the South of France and Italy(milan, Venice, Florence, Rome and the Amalfi Coast). I know what to do in Venice and Rome but don't have a clue as to what to do in Florence other than planning to take a single day cooking class or anything else in that region, let alone the Amalfi Coast and South of France.
If someone could please recommend some places to visit in each of those areas and any recommendations on quality places to stay would be greatly appreciated.
Also, I plan to travel through Italy by train. Is it easy to figure out which train to go on without ending up somewhere other than where we planned? Anything we need to be cautious of?
I look forward to anyones reply.
Vicki <email>
USA Sun 11/05/2006
Greek cruise
Can anyone recommend a good cruise line for touring the Greek Isles?
M.K. <email>
West Bend, Wi USA Sun 11/05/2006
Rick's Hotels
I was reading with some amusement the back and forth on Rick's suggested hotels. We are just back from a 10 day Rick Steeve tour of Italy. Going into the tour I expected the hotels to be of very low quality but in great locations. Maybe we just got lucky but the hotels were GREAT and the locations were wonderful. Two of the three had just been redone. I travel a lot for business and yes these were not like American hotels but they were far better than I expected.
L. Ackerman
Bolingbrook, IL USA Sun 11/05/2006
Stranraer to St Andrews
Re getting from Stranraer to St Andrews. Fly from Belfast to Edinburgh, take the bus to Haymarket Railway Station then take the train to Leuchars and then connecting bus to St Andrews. Don`t consider ferry then train unless you have loads of time
LJA
Dundee Scotland, USA Sun 11/05/2006
Re: Five Hours at Heathrow
You could have time for a VERY SHORT visit to Windsor. While there are public buses that go from Heathrow to Windsor, taking a taxi will get you there in about 15 minutes. There are staffed left luggage facilities at the Heathrow terminals, but I think you'd save time if you simply check your bags for your next flight. After having done that, you'll be better able to gauge if you still have enough time to go to Windsor.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 11/05/2006
FIVE HOURS IN LONDON
JENNIE.....from Heathrow about all you can do is go into London and return immediately. Even then you might miss your flight.
I suggest you spend your 5 hours walking through the terminals and shopping or dining.
Allow lots of time to go through security for your departure.
When you arrive, ask where to store your bags or check them for your next flight.
USA Sat 11/04/2006
Dublin -- Malahide Castle
Thanks to everyone for their advice about seeing Dublin first upon arrival for a couple of days, then leaving for the countryside. After Christmas in Dingle, we will be heading back towards Dublin via 1 or 2 nights in Kilkenny area for an 8AM flight back to USA on the 30th. We were thinking of seeing Malahide Castle that last day -- is it worth seeing? What about the Fry Railway? Any recommendations for a hotel/inn/B&B that accepts kids near the castle, or the airport, or is Dublin so close to the airport we should just stay in the city that last night?
Liz <email>
Binghamton, NY USA Sat 11/04/2006
Air Comet, S.A.?
Has anyone flown Air Comet S.A., a budget carrier based in Madrid? I found a fare so low from Madrid to NYC that I am concerned about whether I have to bring my own jet fuel. The very few mentions I have read on airline review sites were mostly complaints, but I think people usually write to those sites when they have had problems--delays, seat pitch, food etc. I'm more concerned about safety and reliability (will it still be running in July). If you have any knowledge or experience I would appreciate hearing. Thanks!
Diane <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA Sat 11/04/2006
5 hours in London?
Jennie --- Nope !!!!
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Sat 11/04/2006
5 hours in London?
So I've booked our flight for April on British Airways. On our way back we have a 5 hour layover at Heathrow. Is there anything we can do in London for 5 hours besides hanging out at the airport? Is there a place to store your bags? I looked on their website and couldn't find any information on lockers.
Thanks!
Jennie
Seal Beach, CA USA Sat 11/04/2006
Tod -Sochi
Ted, I was in Sochi in college. The beaches are terrible. You get to sit on rocks...not sand.
I'm not even talking pebbles....they are rocks. Not the best of beaches!
Ellen <email>
CO USA Sat 11/04/2006
questions about eastern europe
I have a couple questions about Eastern Europe :
1.Who has the better nightclubs/pubs? Prauge or Budapest?
2.Has anyone been to the Russian beach of Sochi? Is it worth going to (by using Western standards of beach resorts)?
3. Does any ferry company in Turkey offer ferry service to Russia via the Black Sea?
ted <email>
washington, dc USA Sat 11/04/2006
Christmas in Ireland
Hi all,
My family will be traveling to Dublin from 12/23-12/31. We're a little concerned that things will be closed at that time due to the holiday. Has any one had problems with this? Also, suggestions for day trips from Dublin are welcome!
Sarah <email>
Philadelphia, p USA Sat 11/04/2006
Re: One night in Frankfurt
Jeff, if you are staying over a weekend (Fr-Su) night, you might want to try the Best Western Atrium in Rüsselsheim. It serves businessmen visiting the Opel plant, so weekday rates are high, but, on the weekend, a double room with breakfast is €85. The webpage doesn't say anything about a shuttle, but it is a five minute walk to the S-Bahn station and an 11 minute, €2,10, ride from there.
Hotel Königshof in Mainz is just across the Bahnhofplatz from the main station. A double room with breakfast is €82 on weekdays, €69 on weekends. From Mainz, the airport is a 27 minute, €3,25, ride on the S-Bahn.
<email>
USA Sat 11/04/2006
This is crazy!!!
I,m in Europe right now and I am going crazy...with happiness!! Why did't I do this sooner?
Steve
Amsterdam, USA Sat 11/04/2006
One night in Frankfurt
We have been traveling in Austria and Italy and find that we will need to spend the night in Frankfurt and do not have Rick's book to help us. We want to be near the airport to catch a flight the next day.We have online acess.
Dunka, Jeff
Jeff <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 11/04/2006
CT wines
If you google "cinque terre wines" you'll get 387,000 suggestions on where to buy wines from that region.
USA Fri 11/03/2006
Cinque Terre wine
Does anyone know where I can buy Cinque Terre wine online? I couldn't bring any back with me due to airline restrictions. Thanks!
KW
Seattle, WA USA Fri 11/03/2006
RE: Terry-- Trenitalia, Florence Museum reservations
I just went to Italy in September and purchased my train tickets on the trenitalia website. I don't know about the username problem, but I also kept getting denied with my credit card. Turns out it's because a lot of companies won't let you purchase items in a foreign country until you give permission (to prevent fraud). So just contact your CC company and they should be able to fix that for you. (same goes for your bank debit card-- be sure to let them know you'll be using your card out of the country!!!) As soon as I did, I bought my tickets no problem. As an FYI, if you buy them in advance, you might find yourself missing a train or something. If this happens, just go to the ticket counter at the train station and they should be able to switch the tickets onto the next train (even if you have reserved seats, they can switch it pending space availability). We were in Italy in tourist season and didn't bother buying out tickets ahead of time for the museums. We didn't want to be tied down should something come up. Just get to the museum about a 1/2 hour before it opens and you'll be alright probably. You can also buy tickets/reservations at the ticket office for a specific time (at least at the Uffizi) and go back at your reserved time slot.
KW
Seattle, WA USA Fri 11/03/2006
Getting to jerusalem
I am looking for the cheapest way to get to jerusalem from southern europe. I have been surprised in my search so far at how much it would cost so any info would be great. Thanks.
C <email>
AK USA Fri 11/03/2006
You are not in Kansas anymore
Remember our holidays are not the same as theirs I had horrable time getting out of Madrid on train some Spanish holiday .
USA Fri 11/03/2006
Re: Train Travel
Jean - I haven't used BETS myself, but there is a regular on the Fodors board who is always singing their praises. Like you, he appreciates their expertise and their friendly, unhurried service.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 11/03/2006
Car Rental in Italy
Car Rental -Driving in Italy.
Thank you for the information of where to pick up a rental car. We know NOT to pick up the car in a large city or return it in a large city. We picked up a rental car in Paris which would have been fine IF we could figure out how to get out of town. We spent an hour going in a circle but finally "shot" out on to the right road. If you have any other information you'd like to share of your trip, sights, B&B's etc. please email me direct. Grazie
Bonnie <email>
Tigard, OR USA Fri 11/03/2006
Driving in Italy - Car Rental
We came from France and picked up the car at Hertz in Savona. This way we did not have to pay the hundreds of dollars to pick up in one country and drop off in another.
We dropped it off in Figline Val Darno. We stayed at an Agruturismo near by. The Hertz in Figline is extremely convienent. Just a few steps away from the train station. Then you can hop on the train and be in Florence in 23 minutes.
We dropped off a car in Florence last year and that was a huge mistake. We spent 2 hours trying to find Hertz and almost missed the train. I encourage you to pick up and drop off in a smaller city. It is less of a headache.
A lot of people use europcar, but I found Hertz cheaper booking online.
USA Fri 11/03/2006
Train Reservations
If you cannot get your train reservations online at trenitalia's web page try Euraide. You pay a flat rate and get all the reservations you need. This is especially helpful if you are trying to book a night train sleeper.
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/euraide/rickstev.htm
Cali, USA Fri 11/03/2006
Driving in Italy - Car Rental Company
USA - Driving in Italy. What town did you rent your car from while in the Tuscany area. What company did you use? We will fly either into Venice or Rome, spend a few days then head into the Tuscany area. We have a three week time period. Thank you.
<email>
Portland, OR USA Fri 11/03/2006
train travel
The free info that I received from Budget Europe Travel Service appears helpful for train travel. Talking to Byron was enlightening, unrushed, friendly and nonpressured. He can help determine which pass if any is the best and gave me excellent advice. Has anyone used this service? They are in Ann Arbor, MI. 800-441-9413 www.budgeteuropetravelservice.com
Jean <email>
Brownsburg, IN USA Fri 11/03/2006
Terry re: Trains
Terry, I am not speaking from experience but have the same concern about getting train tickets during holiday times. I have tried to use Trenitalia's website also. You will pay more, but you could use RailEurope to purchase your tickets or railpasses. Their website was very easy to use.
Most of the hotels I have reserved for my trip this coming spring have offered to make my museum reservations for me. You may enlist their help as well.
Good luck and have a wonderful trip to Italy!
Ciao
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Fri 11/03/2006
Driving in Italy
We just got back from a month in Italy. We had a car for our week long stay in Tuscany. It was great to have a car and driving was not a big deal. As long as you are comfortable driving in a big city in the US you will do fine driving in Italy. Just don't drive into big Italiann cities, like Rome or Florence. That only brings headaches. You need a car in Tuscany and small towns, not in big citiies. The train works great too.
USA Fri 11/03/2006
Driving Paris to Rome
If you want a stress-free, pleasant trip, don't drive in Italy. Take the train, visit, snack, nap and enjoy yourselves while someone else gets you from place to place. Driving in Italy, while a grand adventure, is not stress free.
Katharine
Seattle, WA USA Thu 11/02/2006
London at Christmas
Lucky you! We took the kids to London 2 years ago about 10 days before Christmas. You must see Harrods windows and check out the food hall. Weird to us was that all the Christmas shows/ pantos didn't start until after December 15th or so, and shopping was not extended hours for holiday shopping. I think Harrods closed at 7pm and was closed on Sunday. When we were there, Leicester Square had a carnival with rides and games. Don't know if that is a holiday tradition or a special event.
And oooh, check out the ice skating at Somerset House which is a must see for the Courtauld Gallery. By the way, the weather was in the upper 40s (that's 40 degrees more than home) and it never rained. Fantastic time to be in London. Lucky!
Liz
USA Thu 11/02/2006
London in Dec
I have been going to London in late Nov/Dec for about 20 years now. The street displays are beautiful. The Christmas tree at Covent Garden is usually spectacular. Harrods is a nice experience- once. Bath is supposed to have a great Christmas market- we hope to check it out this year. York's is extremely nice. Both are easyily "doable" as day trips by train.
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA Thu 11/02/2006
Paris to Rome - Car?
There is a consideration you haven't mentioned. Virtually all rental companies will charge a huge fee to pick up in one country and drop off in another. For example, when we checked in 2002, it would have been an extra $400 to pick up in Portugal and drop off in Spain. I would inquire with a couple of companies; however, because these things are always changing.
USA Thu 11/02/2006
Travel Style
I totally embrace Barbara's philosophy. "Pay less and go more often". And, a hotel doesn't have to be uncomfortable. I have to admit, however, that I have gone far beyond Rick's recommmendations and have learned to find accommodations on my own. I have picked almost 20 pensionen and zimmer off of town websites without ever a regret. On my last two trips my lodging per night has averaged €25 per person. There is no way you could duplicate the cultural experience by paying more.
<email>
USA Thu 11/02/2006
Re: Charles M. Luther
Kim, don't be so hard on Chas. He has been an occasional poster here for many years. He has his opinions. Sometimes he has pretty good thoughts; other times he is way off base.
I think his comment was at least partially aimed at me, but I am not offended, more amused. I am only a few years younger than he is. He must also be one of the children.
Actually, carrying-on is not a matter of age or physical ability, it is a matter of discipline. My carry-on probably weighs less than 15 pounds. Almost anyone should be able to carry that much; you don't need backstraps and you don't need wheels. I keep the weight down by making a packing list, then asking myself what I really need and revising the list. I have designed my wardrobe for low weight, ease of washing, whatever it takes to minimize weight. I wash underwear every night and find a washing machine when I can. One of the high points of every trip is when I realize I have enough clean clothes to make it through the rest of the trip without doing any more washing.
Lee
USA Thu 11/02/2006
Trenitalia, Florence Museum reservations
This is a question for people who have traveled in Italy by train over the Christmas holidays. Do you think that if I wait until we arrive in Rome Dec. 23, that it would be too late to get the needed train tickets for Siena, Pisa, Lucca, Florence and Venice for our family of 4? I have tried endlessly for 8 days to buy my tickets ahead on the Trenitalia website. I constantly get error messages (wrong password or ID, my password expired after they assigned it to me minutes earlier, their system is down) and on the few times I've gotten as far as being asked for my credit card, two different credit cards were refused for no reason. The site constantly goes from English back to Italian. Everytime my account is closed down for "errors", I am told to call an Italian phone number that is never available. I have gone through seven different email addresses, trying to re-register to buy these tickets. This is about the most frustrating thing ever...it seems to me that it's remarkably unusable. Or maybe I'm missing something...any suggestions? Also...about the number Rick gives in his book regarding Florence museum reservations-everytime I call it, I just get a recording, never talking to a person to schedule a time slot (and yes, I've adjusted to the time difference). I'm trying to be well organized, but I feel like I'm banging my head against a brick wall. Help!
Terry <email>
Bend, OR USA Thu 11/02/2006
Car or Train? Paris to Rome in December
Three adults have one week to travel from Paris to Rome in December of this year. Paris and Rome visits are not included in the one week we are taking to travel between the two cities. We have an entire week in which we wish to visit parts of Belgium and then travel leisurely through France, Switzerland, and Northern Italy to San Giovanni Rotondo. We will then travel from there to our final destination, Rome. I would like some advice as to whether we should rent a car for the trip between the two cities or take the train. We are not on a strict budget, but we do want to be careful. We are up for an adventure, but not at the risk of our safety and we don't want the journey to become really stressful and a nightmare. Just wondering about...is it safe to drive all that way, too much driving, road conditions in December, which is more cost effective, pleasant/fun and so on? Any advice would be much appreciated! Thank you!
Dawn
USA Thu 11/02/2006
Travel Style
I'm one of Rick's older (mid-sixties) and frugal travelers. I choose to pay less and go more often. Just because the bathroom is down the hall doesn't mean a hotel is uncomfortable. Some of our best times have been in hostels and convents.
I think Rick is doing a great job at finding 'value' lodgings.
Barbara
Danbury, CT USA Thu 11/02/2006
London in December
I too will be in London in December. Are there any special Christmas displays that I should check out, a cathedral, palace, or perhaps even Harrods?
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Thu 11/02/2006
Alitalia - good experience
We flew Alitalia roundtrip from Paris to Rome in October 2005 - they were great. We needed an earlier flight back to Paris from Rome, due to changes in our transatlantic flight later in the day and they very happily put us on an earlier Alitalia flight so that we would have a longer connection time. While in the air the flight attendants were very pleasant and we really would fly with them again.
Kathy
VA USA Thu 11/02/2006
Rick vs Rudy vs Samantha Barcelona
To the poster below who said she would have never known about gettng cookies from the cloistered nun if it were not for Samantha Brown. Just an fyi that this info about gettng cookies from the cloistered nun IS listed in Rick's guidebook.
USA Thu 11/02/2006
Charles M. Luther
Please, let us all be polite and understanding of differences. Everyone can state preferences and opinions without derogatory remarks about "children" or any other group. Thank you.
Kim
Iowa USA Thu 11/02/2006
Once More: TER Trains
Oops! I re-read your original note more closely and see that you've purchased a railpass. In that case, just jump on any TER train at any time and on any day you wish. Show your pass when the conductor asks for it. (Rail Europe should have told you this.)
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 11/02/2006
Re: Purchasing France TER Tickets from US or Canada
You cannot make reservations for TER trains. If you buy a ticket, it's good for any train the entire day of purchase. I don't know if you can buy tickets outside of France. You can book them all in advance at www.voyages-sncf.com. Choose the option of picking them up at any station or SNCF ticket boutique.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 11/02/2006
Rick + Other Guides
I am a complete Rick fan as far as his suggested itineraries go. I always start with his books to plan our trips and miss them when we travel somewhere he does not cover. Having said that, we do not usually stay in his recommended hotels as they are often "too budget" (i.e. uncomfortable) for these mid-40's bones. His charming B&B's in smaller cities (Rothenberg, Germany or Aero Island in Denmark) are great finds. In the larger cities I will check out his choices and also use tripadvisor.com for suggestions and feedback. I like karenbrown.com as well - the places she lists, though sometimes expensive, have character/added amenties that aren't always found with Rick's picks. We usually end up with a mix in terms of prices but hopefully all are charming, unique, smaller places. I would not want to stay in any of the "chain" hotels he lists, even if they are European chains, but I realize we have the luxury of a bigger budget than many (younger) travelers.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 11/02/2006
Sleeper price Kosice-Krakow
Weighing our options for travel from Kosice to Krakow we are considering traveling on the overnight train that departs at 23:27. Can anyone give the approximate price for 2 people in a 2 berth sleeper? Any recommendation on booking/reserving will be appreciated. We have not yet traveled on a sleeper, is possible get any sleep, all suggestions welcomed. Thanks, John & Robin
JOHN & ROBIN <email>
Atascadero, Ca USA Wed 11/01/2006
London and Paris at christmas
We will be in London the week before Christmas, will we find things open as usual? Will we have transportation problems when we need to leave London on the 26th of December? Anyone ever travel during these times have any suggestions?
Julie
Seattle, WA USA Wed 11/01/2006
Travel Gurus
I think Rick has two, somewhat distinct audiences. There are the young and very budget-minded; and there are the more mature, with a bit more cash and a need for more creature comforts. My husband and I are in the latter category. We have found that we need to scrutinize Rick's hotel recommendations very carefully, usually by cross-checking with Tripadvisor. Otherwise we can find ourselves very unhappy with our lodgings. I also think he and some of the posters on this site make a fetish of traveling light. Some of us prefer clean clothes and don't want to wear the same thing day after day. The travel light gang need to know that there is no reward awaiting them in heaven. People need to do what's comfortable for them. That being said, we are faithful viewers of Rick's shows. We like his attitude and his mission to encourage people of all sorts to see the world. We also like Rudy Maxa, though we wouldn't dream of spending the kind of money required for many of his featured hotels, his restaurants, maybe.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Hotel Britania, Lisbon
I have stayed there twice. The rooms are spacious and super clean. The location is excellent. The best thing, though, is the staff. They are ultra professional . . .accommodating, friendly, helpful, without being phony familiar. If I ever go to Lisbon again, I wouldn't dream of staying elsewhere.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Charles M . Luther
I do get tired of the wheeled bag versus a backpack debate. Why not allow people to take whichever they prefer? The children who post here seem to not understand that as you age one loses the ability to sling a packpack up on your shoulders. Sure, at 71 I still can, but my wife never could and if I put it there she could not walk. I hope the children don't mind if we check our bags. Also, it has become so hard to put our bags in overhead compartments with all the children shoving us out of the way and knocking us about.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Emailing CC and Passport copies
Email is as confidential as sending a post card snail mail. Emails can be intercepted and are sometimes delivered to the wrong email box.
Iowa USA Wed 11/01/2006
To USA regarding Rick's "cheap" way of traveling. Check out www.locanda.it and allemeraviglie.it. These are hotels in Milan and they are NOT cheap. I'd like to stay in one of these hotels but my budget does not allow for me to do so. Rick finds a way to travel for the ones on a "low" budget and still be able to enjoy the adventures of traveling overseas and not go into debt. Some of us need to find the lowest cost of B&B's and still be comfortable and in a clean,pleasant surrounding.
Bonnie
Portland, OR USA Wed 11/01/2006
Purchasing France TER tickets from US or Canada
Does anyone know of a travel agent in the US or Canada that can purchase France Regional TER train tickets/reservations directly for me? Rail Europe is unable to help me with this. I was only able to get a Rail Pass and reservations on the France TGV thru them. I have been told that my only option is to purchase the TER train tickets/reservations once I arrive in Europe. If that’s the case, do I need to be in France? Or will another country in Europe work?
AJ <email>
Colorado Springs, CO USA Wed 11/01/2006
Alitalia
Bethany, I just flew Alitalia last week from Rome to San Francisco with a connecting flight in Newark. The first portion was delayed almost 5 hours. I had plenty of time to talk with other travelers and apparently this is quite normal. I heard countless stories of people being delayed 3-9 hours. What's worse is the people at the gate would not/could not answer any of our questions and they would make announcements only in Italian. We had to beg them to announce in English. Fortunately there were some very nice English-speaking Italian passengers who would translate for everybody.
We missed our connecting flight in Newark. Luckily, we were going to the West Coast so there were still a few flights available. Those going to the Midwest were out of luck and had to stay in a hotel. I don't know where they stayed, but the area around the Newark Airport is very industrial and very dangerous. I would not want to stay there.
The company has been on the verge of bankruptcy for a few years now, so of course thousands of people have been laid off and the they are overextended.
In the end, I wish I would have just paid the extra $250-300 with another carrier. I had to call-in "sick" and miss an extra day of work.
Lisa
Sunnyvale, CA USA Wed 11/01/2006
There ARE wheelie suitcases which can be carried on! Check the airlines for the dimensions, and if you pack light, you can take them on without having to check them in.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Giving passport to Train person.
I took the train from Milan to Munich and used the sleeper car. There were many stops so rather than waking me at each border check, My porter took my passport so that I would not be disturbed in the night.
This is common practice, and I heard that if you don't relinquish it, they will wake you up at each check!
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Samantha Brown's shows
No matter what program you watch, the idea is to take away what YOU need. Some of us have grander ideas for travel - some of us go totally budget.
I like to watch travel shows to get ideas of places I'd like to explore. I don't take any of the hotel suggestions as a "bible" of a place to stay. I prefer to find my own hotel.
Once a "travel personality" has suggested a hotel - you can forget about getting good deals, or perhaps even getting a room, since everyone reading/watching the show will then try to book it on that recommendation!
Who cares what the travel guide looks like? Rick can update his look as much as Rudy or Samantha should. How petty of the poster below to point this fact out? Maybe her shows are much older - reruns? So maybe her look is a few years old? Who cares? I'm not looking at her - I'm looking around her at the city or location she's talking about!
How lucky are we to have such great people out there doing the ground work for us? Writing books and traveling as a scout to find great things for us to explore?
Faithful Rick reader
USA Wed 11/01/2006
coping passport information
In addition to copying my passport (Shrink it 65%),I also took a digital photo of my passport and cc's, and emailed it to myself. There's plenty of cyber cafe's around Europe, and if I needed to get a copy, it was faster to pay a Euro for a computer, than it was to run back to my hotel.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Sam vs Rick
Samantha Brown is a hoot!!
She actually had better tips regarding Barcelona than Rick's program did.
If it weren't for the tip on gettng cookies from the cloistered nun, my husband and I wouldn't have had the adventure of finding the convent.
Samantha's program isn't for the budget minded. Its to show you, the traveler, what sights there are in the country she's visiting.
IMHO, Rick can get somewhat "too" cheap in his way of traveling. I do like the packing light bit, but some of the hotels Rick shows us is definitely something I would check tripadvisor.com first!
USA Wed 11/01/2006
LONDON QUESTION
Lisa...... when I eat in a pub, I always look for a big sign hanging over the table that says, "this waitress will suggest from the menu".
If I do not see a sign, I go somewhere else.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Getting to Bellagio
When you take the Ferry, ask them if there's a faster ferry. I didn't know that there are some "express" ones, and took the slow boat when I was in Lake Como.
The ferries are frequent and from Milan you can take the train there.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Wheelie for this petite woman!
Grace, I am 4 foot 10 and chose to use a wheelie suitcase. I got an Eddie Bauer one at Target which I love!! Its a 2 tier one and when I use Rick's mesh bags to pack, I can easily pack 2 weeks worth in the lower portion, and keep the top portion free for other things, like souvenir or even stinky clothes (separate the clean vs dirty!). I also carry a small day pack, so, with the wheelie, I can travel Europe in 2 weeks with no hassel on weight and no hassel running from one train station to the next.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Rotterdam Coffeeshop Suggestions??
Anyone know of any good coffeeshops in Rotterdam?? I will be there in a few days and can't seem to find anything online..
yo mama
chicago, il USA Wed 11/01/2006
Travel Shows - I like Samantha Brown!
I like Samantha Brown on the Travel Channel (cable)
She's overly enthusiastic, and it's fun. Her hotel rooms are way more than I could ever dream of paying for, but I do like her travel information, and the way she presents information.
I TiVo her show whenever it's of interest for a certain area (search Spain, or Germany for example)
I like to watch a variety of travel shows, each one has a different focus, or point of view.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Comment on Alitalia
My only comment would be this: The only workers that strike more than the French are the Italians. I wouldn't fly Alitalia just becuase of that.
Tim
USA Wed 11/01/2006
RE: Alitalia
Alitalia allows only one piece of carry-on luggage with a weight no more than 11#. www.alitaliausa.com/your_travel/baggage/information/index.htm
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Alitalia
Anyone traveled on Alitalia?
Looking to book a nonstop from Minneapolis to Rome...
Comments on it?
Thanks!
Bethany
Minneapolis, MN USA Wed 11/01/2006
LONDON QUESTION
Lisa....when I eat in a pub I always sit at a table where a waitress will suggest from the menu.
If you prefer cider, order it or wine if you like. No different than in a restaurant here.
Some have printed menus and others don’t. The food is always good and much cheaper than at a restaurant.
Tip the same as you do here.
Ask at your hotel or when it comes time to eat, stop someone on the street where you are and ask where their favorite pub is.
They will always steer you to a good one nearby.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
RE: Wheels vs backpack
The answer is simple arithmatic. Roll-aboard bags add 5 to 7 pounds of structure, handles, and wheels to the weight I would have to carry (stairs, on/off trains, down crowded airplane or train aisles, into overhead compartments, etc). In addition, the rigid frame makes roll-aboards much more difficult to stow; my flexible ETBD bag fits almost anywhere.
Having had my luggage nearly delayed or completely lost on 3 of my 8 trips to Europe, I will never again willingly check luggage. Lufthansa allows 17.6 pounds of carry-on weight, and I HAVE had my bag weighed. With a roll around, I would be limited to less than 10 pounds of "stuff" (compared to over 15 pounds with my current carry-on bag). If I packed the same amount, less than 10 pound, that I would be allowed with a roll-on, my current bag would weigh less than 12 pounds and be no problem to carry. Actually, I rarely use the backpack feature. I just through the strap over my shoulder and go.
If you are going to check everything you own, rolling bags probably make sense, but if you have the discipline to pack light, they are unnecessary.
Lee
USA Wed 11/01/2006
London Question
I will be in London in December alone and would to eat and/or drink at some pubs.
1) Can someone give me some suggestions on what kind of drink(s) to order. I've been once a few years ago but don't remember what I ordered. I don't prefer beer, but rather a cider or glass of wine.
2)Are there any basics to know about ordering food? Order at the bar, wait for a server, how much they expect in tip, hours of food service, etc?
Thanks for your help!
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Wed 11/01/2006
Wheels vs backpack
I don't understand why anyone would want to carry 20 plus pounds of weight around Europe for any time. What is the problem with wheels? I have only encountered "bumpy" roads one or two times and it wasn't so bad that it made me want to carry my bag. I save my energy for more important things.
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Globetrekker on TV
FYI, Globtrekker can also be seen on the Travel Channel every afternoon.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Wed 11/01/2006
Rick & Rudy & Globetrekker on TV
I like both Rick and Rudy because they each have a slightly different slant on travel.
For another fun travel show with a different perspective, watch Globetrekker on PBS (http://www.globetrekkertv.com)
Phoebe
USA Wed 11/01/2006
Rick vs Rudy
I like both Rick's and Rudy's travel shows. I find neither especially pretensious. One-ups-manship would not serve me well. I only wish that there were more travel shows with more presenters from varied points of view, the more from which to pick and choose. It is variety of options that makes travel so pleasureable for me.
Regards,
Gary Mc
Salt Lake City, UT USA Wed 11/01/2006
Rick vs Rudy
I really appreciate Rick's down to earth travel advice. Last night I found myself watching PBS and Rudy Maxx's travel show. He seem so prentenious. Thank goodness for Rick and his great advice!
NorCal, USA Wed 11/01/2006
hotel stays in Barcelona and Lisbon
Need help with planning a stay in Lisbon for three nights and two nights in Barcelona. Any input about Hotel Britania in Lisbon and Hotel Granvia in Barcelona? Hope to find safe and quiet locations.
Carol
Philadelphia, PA USA Wed 11/01/2006
Re: Bags for Short People
I always take a carryon sized rolling bag & a backpack from The North Face (Isabella). It is sized perfectly for women 5'3" & under. It is not large enough for ALL your items, so I use it as a "daypack", to carry all my daily necessities.
I did not find a backpack that would work for my size AND hold all the items I carry. I found my Isabella pack online, and I'm very pleased with it! Also, many places online offer free shipping.
Aquarius11
Yardley, PA USA Wed 11/01/2006
Kim, Italy
Kim, we just got back from 2 weeks in Italy. We went to Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence, Tuscany, Amalfi Coast and Rome. 2 nights at each except for Tuscany, where we spent 4 days. You could easily do Milan, only a few hours from Venice by train. You can email me for more info.
Renee <email>
Canada Wed 11/01/2006