Rick Steves' Europe: Travelers' Helpline Archives April 2004

Travelers' Helpline Archives:
April 2004

Each month's postings are removed from the active board and archived here. If you're looking for the answers to a particular question that was posted, be sure to look in subsequent months, also, to see all the answers.

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Transportation into Rome form airport
We will be stopping over in Rome. What is the best way to get from the airport into Rome -Taxi, Bus or train? And can anyone give me an idea of the costs in Euro's
Cheryl Sacamano <email>
Victoria, BC Canada Fri 04/30/2004

MILANO AIRPORTS
Linda Padden~~~~~~~~~~~~the major airport in Milano is Malpensa. You have to use it if your airline uses it. The second airport services other airlines. You really don't have a choice.
micky p
atlana, tx USA Fri 04/30/2004

FLIGHT TIME JFK TO AMSTERDAM
Montie.....you can find flying times at www.aa.com. I checked American flight 100 out of JFK. It takes 8 hours, 10 minutes to London and 1 hour, 10 minutes to Amsterdam.... there would be a couple of hours layover.... You can find other flights on that web page which may show a different flying time.
AMY
LUBBOCK, TX USA Fri 04/30/2004

Stuttgart — Things To Do?
I may have an 8-hour layover in Stuttgart this July. Any advice about things to do or sights to see? Cafes to hang out at? Interesting city walks? Is it fairly quick and easy to get from the city to the airport? Thanks.

St. Paul, MN USA Fri 04/30/2004

flight hours
Could you please tell me what the flying time is from JFK airport in NYC to Amsterdam, and then also from Ansterdam to Tanzania. Thanks a bunch!
Montie <email>
Plantsville, ct USA Fri 04/30/2004

Bringing Home Wine
Brian, Go to www.cbp.gov (Customs and Border Patrol). On the right side is a link called "Know Before You Go." It has all sorts of information about what you can and can't bring in and what the costs are. They list wine as an example and say that the duty for a 2nd bottle is 4% plus any IRS tax. Don't know about state tax.

USA Fri 04/30/2004

Florence hotels — to book or not to book
My family and I (6 adults total) are looking for a hotel room, for one night, in Florence. We'll be spending most of our time in Florence looking around, eating and then will be leaving early the next morning to catch our flight home for the states. Is it recommenedd to book our hotel rooms months in advance or try to find one when we get there. Does anyone have any recommendations for a decent hotel in a fun part of Florence. Help!!!
Melissa <email>
Sacramento, ca USA Fri 04/30/2004

Hotel stays
Have you stayed at any of the following hotels in Paris? If so was were they nice and clean. Grand Hotel de Normandie, Pavillon St Augustin or Quality Hotel Sanit Lazare
Alanna Johnson <email>
Calgary, AB Canada Fri 04/30/2004

Liverpool/Beatles advice
Going to London for 12 days next week. Being a HUGE Beatles fan(John Lennon!!)-have got to get to Liverpool... Any of you have suggestions on the best (and least costly)way to get there and what Beatle tours are the best... Thanks!
Ed <email>
Tampa, Fl USA Fri 04/30/2004

Charles M. Luther
As Rick explains so well in his books, it is not necessary to buy train tickets for Europe from the US AND it is a lot more expensive since most charge heavily for the service. Buy your tickets for departure when you arrive in a city. It is easiest to buy them from a travel agent. Travel agents are everywhere in Europe and charge the same as the train company. The online train sites are very good for planning and scheduling. FS (TrainItalia) rarely works for actually buying a ticket. After all, it is Italian.

USA Fri 04/30/2004

Bringing Wine Home
Does anyone know the rules for bringing wine back from France into New York. I know there is a one liter duty free limit, but then what? Is there also state duty/tax?
Brian
Nazareth, PA USA Fri 04/30/2004

Milan Airports
I've heard that there is one airport in Milan that is 'easier', less congested, and better to fly out of and into than another. Which airport in Milan would you suggest? Linda Padden Madison, WI
Linda Padden <email>
Madison, WI USA Fri 04/30/2004

Apartment rental Rome
Apt. Rental (3 mos.) Rome needed June, July, August, 2004. Trastevere or close surrounding area. Need info on reputable responsive agency/vendor. How to find?
Sandy Butler <email>
Birmingham, AL USA Fri 04/30/2004

Malpensa Hotels
When I was tentatively planning an arrival in Milan, I found (through the Graffiti Wall) the Hotel Cervo near Malpensa. I don't know if it's good but it sounded good to me! The address is hotelcervo.it/ You're welcome to email me at Darcyj@cableone.net
Darcy J <email>
Lewiston, ID USA Fri 04/30/2004

Booking ahead for Italy train tickets
I'll be going to Italy in a month and plan to travel around the country exclusively by train. I've used the TrenItalia website (www.trenitalia.com) to get all the schedule information I need. My question is, do I need to book train tickets ahead of time (on the TrenItalia site), or can I wait until I get to Italy? If it would be smart to book ahead of time, does anyone know how to book a sleeper compartment on one of the trains through the TrenItalia site? Thanks in advance.
HCL <email>
Seattle, WA USA Fri 04/30/2004

Need Counsel on Milan Hotel Choice While Awaiting Night Train Departure
Our extended family is traveling with a 14 month old. After leaving Cortona, we need to return our leased vehicle to Malpensa AP prior to getting a night train to Paris at the Centrale Station. We need a place of rest for the wait time before a later departure from Milan. We want to avoid any long wait in the station at night — too dangerous and hard on a baby. In spite of the extra expense, we thought of getting a hotel room (for a few hours) near the rail station -or a hotel (inexpensive?) near Malpensa that might offer transport to the Centrale Rail Station. Anyone out there with any suggestions or counsel?
Joann Thompson <email>
Seattle, WA USA Thu 04/29/2004

Museum Pass & Kids
Tom, I can confirm that our two children just followed with us through the museum pass line at many places (Louvre, Versailles, etc.) Sometimes they asked how old they were before letting them in with us.
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 04/29/2004

Apartment rental in Rome
Has someone rented one of the following 2 apartments in Rome, Italy — Alla Dolce Vita B&B & suites at the corner of Via Lombardia and Via Venito or Aurelia Apartments near the Vatican? How was your experience? Also, any pointers to renting apartment near Spanish Steps for 2 adults/2 children in the 160-200 euro/night rate? Thanks!
Chandra <email>
Portland, OR USA Thu 04/29/2004

Cell phone rental in Italy
We'll be in Italy for 1 month this summer. I'd like to rent 2 cell phones. What is my cheapest option — plan to use cell phone mostly to make calls within Italy, few calls back to the USA. Thanks!
Chandra <email>
Portland, OR USA Thu 04/29/2004

Amsterdam Lodging
Dear Amsterdam Lodging, we stayed at the Swissotel. It was very close (few blocks) to the royal palace. The rooms were clean and the price was good. In a great area.

USA Thu 04/29/2004

Amsterdam lodging
We will be traveling to Amsterdam May 23, 04....and would like some hotel or room suggestions...is it better to stay outside of Amsterdam or in?
kate <email>
Idyllwild, CA USA Thu 04/29/2004

Luggage storage in Italian Train Stations
I've read alot about increased security in European train stations and saw a quote from a Italian train official saying that all in-station baggage storage would be eliminated. Has anyone had any problem storing bags at the station for day while sightseeing?
Dirk <email>
USA Thu 04/29/2004

Stayed in one of these hotels?
If anyone has stayed in the following hotels, could you please give me your opinion of them? Hotel Pointe Rivoli in Paris Hotel Magliani in Florence Pop Inn Hostel in Rome Torretta in Manarola, CT With the first two, I haven't found any info on the web (specifically trip advisor.com). Any comments, good or bad, are greatly appreciated!
Kelly <email>
Philadelphia, USA Thu 04/29/2004

Morocco
Has anybody been to Morocco lately? I am planning to go in November, and I would like some opinions other than the travel books. Thanks a lot. Daisy
Daisy
Lees Summit, MO USA Thu 04/29/2004

Tom and Museum pass
Tom, with the Paris museum pass, you can waltz to the front of the lines at a plethora of world-famous museums in Paris...In Versailles, go to the entrance marked "B" and bypass the large crowds without the handy pass. As for kids, the Versailles website (http://www.chateauversailles.fr/en/570_Admission_and_times.php) states that those 18 and under are admitted free, so I'm guessing that the children can just go ahead and follow you in so you don't have to wait in line.
Brandie <email>
KS USA Thu 04/29/2004

QUESTION ABOUT NIGHT TRAINS IN ITALY
I will be traveling from Venice to Rome in mid-July. I am supposed to catch an 8am flight from Rome's airport. I will have to take a night train from Venice to Rome. Has anyone ever rode on a night train? Are they safe in Italy? Can I get a sleeper car in 2nd class? And what exactly does a sleeper car entail? Also, and most importantly, should I be reserving this ahead of time? Or should I buy the tickets and so forth once I get to Venice? Please answer ASAP. Thank you :)
Cristine <email>
New York City, NY USA Thu 04/29/2004

Thievery in Italy
We are all set for our 2 weeks in Italy in May. Except for a potential scam in Paris once, we have never experienced any unsavory activities. We are very careful — money belts, etc. We are somewhat concerned about the street crime in Italy. Our son was in Rome last summer and had no problem except someone offered to take a photo of him and his wife and then "charged" money for it — $10 or so — it was either pay or you no longer owned your camera! I think he gave us good advice: if someone on the street — usually two people together — try to talk to you just ignore them since you don't know them and it is probably a scam. My son also has the advantage of being 6' 4".
Nancy <email>
Ga USA Thu 04/29/2004

HEATHROW TAXI COSTS
Lindsey ...... HERE are the taxi costs from Heathrow to London: .... www.newcenturycars.co.uk.... The taxi cost is way out of line compared with the train or tube.....AND taxi is not necessarily faster with London traffic.
JUDY C
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX USA Thu 04/29/2004

Jogging in Italy "safe"?
Is recreational jogging safe while traveling in Italy for a single female (Milan, Venice, Florence, Rome)?
Alicia <email>
Hoboken, NJ USA Thu 04/29/2004

HEATHROW TAXI COSTS
Lindsey ~~~~~ I have copied this info from the web: (www.premierairportcars.com/heathrow)....

TAXI....The famous London black cabs are licensed under, and regulated by the Metropolitan Public Carriage Act to operate within the Greater London Metropolitan Area. BAA Heathrow operates a computer system that controls the flow of cabs from a large holding area on the airport to the terminal forecourts to ensure that the supply of cabs meets customer demand.

Taxi ranks are located outside each terminal. Many taxis are accessible to wheelchairs; on arrival at the rank, contact the local traffic warden who will ensure that a suitable vehicle is available. However, black cabs are often twice expensive as Airports-taxis' cabs. There are taxi desks in each of the terminal arrivals halls. Please contact us for the latest rates or to arrange a drop off.....

BUS....
"Most bus services arrive at the central Bus Station in the main airport area between Terminals 1, 2 & 3. Pedestrian access to the terminals is signposted. A limited number of services additionally stop at Terminal 4. National Express shuttle from London Victoria Coach Station to Heathrow runs every 30 minutes. First bus 07.30, last bus 23.30. Services operate seven days a week, all year round. Fare: £7 one way; £10 return/round trip. Children: £3.50 one way; £5 return/round trip. Journey time — around 40 minutes; 55 minutes at peak hours.

The Airbus service links to Heathrow Terminals from many west London hotels and Kings Cross and Euston main line rail stations. Departures are every 20-30 minutes with a journey time around 60-75 minutes. These services drop off at Terminal forecourts. Fare: £7 one way, £10 return/round trip.

The Airbus A2 service leaves King's Cross rail station every 30 minutes and calls at Euston station and some Underground rail stations. The service also picks up at various hotels on its journey to Terminals 1, 2 and 3. The first service leaves King's Cross at 07:00, the last at 20:30.

The Airbus Direct service picks up from various central London hotels and drops off at Terminal 4. First bus is at 05:30, the last 15:50. Journey time: 1 hour 40 minutes. Airbus details are available by calling the Heathrow Travel line on 0990 747777. Details and tickets also available from the booths in terminal......

TRAIN ....
Getting to Heathrow by train: Train Heathrow has two rail services from central London. In addition to the London Underground ( "the tube" ) is the Heathrow Express train service from London Paddington station.

There are many ways of reaching Heathrow including a wide network of coach services and local buses, London Underground and the new Heathrow Express.

Heathrow's passenger terminals are grouped into two main areas. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are in the Central Terminal Area; Terminal 4 is located on the southside of the airport. A frequent courtesy bus runs between each of the central area terminals and Terminal 4. Pedestrian subways link the three central terminals...

TUBE....
Heathrow is served by the Piccadilly Line of the London Underground. There is one station for Terminals 1, 2 and 3 which is accessed from the terminal buildings via the pedestrian subway system, and a separate one for Terminal 4 which is accessed directly from within the building.

An average journey to central London takes approximately 50-60 minutes. Trains run every five minutes at peak times and every nine minutes at off-peak times and at weekends.

The first train to London leaves Heathrow Terminal 4 at 0508 (0558 on Sundays) and the last a 2349 (2257 on Sundays). The first train from central London arrives at Terminal 4 at 0600 (0747 Sundays) and the last at 0107 (0008 Sundays). It takes a further five minutes to reach the Terminals 1, 2 and 3 station. As these times are subject to change it is advisable to check with London Transport before traveling.
MILO MCBEANE
FORT WORTH, TX USA Thu 04/29/2004

Digital Camera
I'm taking a digital camera to Western Europe but have heard that alot of places don't have convenient stores that will burn my memory disks onto CD's. I only have 2 memory disks, one 8 MB and another 64 MB, and really know very little about this and was wondering if my information is wrong, or if in places like Spain there really weren't these shops. Does anyone think it'll be a problem. I need help. Thanks
Matt Heath <email>
Fayetteville, AR USA Thu 04/29/2004

DROP OFF LAUNDRY IN BARCELONA
MC....as you may already know drop off laundrys are scarce in Europe. When you arrive at your hotel, ask the concierge where the nearest one is located. If that doesn't work walk to the nearest stores and ask, or stop someone who lives in the neighborhood and ask. That is the only way I have found them in some towns.
MOULIANE
ST ALAMOS, NM USA Thu 04/29/2004

EUROPE LODGING FOR 2
Js....try www.eurocheapo.com, www.touristhome.de, www.loreleyvalley.com, www.octopustravel.com, quikbook.com, hoteldiscounts.com, and roomconnections.com. .... My wife and I stay in Formule ONE motels when we can. You will find them listed at www.hotelformule1.com (formule one). They are new and modern rooms costing from $22 to $30 for up to 3 persons. Bath down the hall.
BALEDIRO
NEW ORLEANS, LA USA Thu 04/29/2004

Pisa-Florence Rail Connection
There are 2 to 3 train each hour between Pisa & Florence, approx. 20-30 minutes apart on week days so if your train into Pisa runs late, you won't have to wait very long for another train. If you miss the train on Saturday or Sunday the next one leaves around 20:03.
Douglas <email>
Italy Thu 04/29/2004

NYNASHAMN TO STOCKHOLM
NYNASHAMN TO STOCKHOLM Tom I can't find Nynashamn on the web or in my Atlas. I suggest you disembark the boat and walk to the nearest person or store and ask where to catch a bus to Nynashamn. It can't be very far if the fare is $69.
Elmo W
arkmore, nm USA Thu 04/29/2004

35 MM PHOTO PROCESSING IN GERMANY
Mavis...you need not be concerned about damaged film; I have traveled in over 40 countries and never had a problem. Read the photography section of this page for comments. If you have to go through 5 or more x-ray machines you should have it hand inspected. I have never had a security person refuse to hand inspect my film — — even in Europe. You can have film developed in many places in Germany and Austria. There are many camera shops and camera depts. In dept stores. Just ask the nearest person on the street or in a store or restaurant or hotel.
RUDY M
SACRAMENTO, CA USA Thu 04/29/2004

Pisa-Florence Rail Connection
My husband and I are traveling to France and Italy this summer. We will be traveling by rail from Nice to Florence via Genoa and Pisa. I am concerned that the connection in Pisa will be tight (we arrive 18:55 in Pisa and depart at 19:20 for Florence.) Has anyone had any experience making/ not making this connection before?
Melissa <email>
Littleton, CO USA Thu 04/29/2004

TRAIN FROM AMSTERDAM TO GERMANY
Kris~~~~~~~the cheapest way is by bus, but not recommended by travelers because it is much slower than train. Check these pages: www.alleuroperail.com, railpass.com, railtrains.com, cit-tours.com and budgeteuropetravel.com. Look for point-to-point fares and enter your departure city and destination city. It will tell you travel time and fare. A rail pass is too costly.
UVALLE
PENSACOLA, FL USA Thu 04/29/2004

HOW TO GET GOOD AIRFARE
Granny: have you tried www.bestfares.com ? Also try cheaptickets.com, sidestep.com, go-today.com, lastminutetravel.com, flybudget.com, smarterliving.com, and lowairfare.com. Most travelers advise checking these pages at least once a day for a few weeks because the bargain fares appear suddenly and don't last long. You have to be there at the right time. To get the best fares takes time and persistence. The inventory managers for airlines advise checking early and also wait until a few weeks before departure to buy... they list available seats at midnight every day. Sally Tulsa 2.
SALLY
TULSA, OK USA Thu 04/29/2004

Kris Chrysler, Amsterdam to Frankfurt
You might look into bus transportation if going all the way to Frankfurt for some reason: www.eurolines.nl/promotievoorwaarden_en.php3 I found a fare there of 105 Euros round trip for one adult, one child. It sounds like you don't have a lot of time. I would suggest traveling only as far as Koblenz and exploring the prettiest part of the Rhine, just south of there between Koblenz and Bingen (daypass for up to 5 people travelling together on the regional trains thee costs only 21 Euros weekdays.)
Russ <email>
Galt, CA USA Thu 04/29/2004

WOMENS CLOTHING
SUSIE, ON GRAFFITI WALL, MENTIONNED TRAVEL BLAZER WITH 4 INSIDE ZIPPERWED POCKETS. i EMAILED HER, BUT HAVEN'T GOT A RESPONSE. dOES SOME ELSE KNOW ABOUT THIS BLAZER?
ROSE-ANN <email>
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL USA Thu 04/29/2004

appliances
I will travel Madrid, Paris, Giverny, Ghent, Bruges, Amsterdam in Sept. Need immersion coil with correct adapters for all these countries. Anyone where to get one?
ROSE-ANN <email>
PALM BEACH GARDENS, FL USA Thu 04/29/2004

Spain To Morocco
I'm looking for the most current information on Americans traveling by ferry from Algeciras or Tarifa, Spain into Tangier for a day tour. The procedures seem to be always changing. If you've made this crossing recently, please pass on any info you have that would be helpful. Thanks!
Carlotta Reedy <email>
Indialantic, Fla USA Thu 04/29/2004

Rome apartment rental
Chandra, I recommend a web site that I have used many times in the USA and also for a apt in Paris. It's address is: www.VRBO.com.(that stands for "vacation rental by owner") Maybe I've been lucky, but I have always had good experiences with the people I've rented from. And you avoid the agency fees because you deal directly with the owners.
Ann <email>
Waukesha, WI USA Thu 04/29/2004

Nynashamn to Stockholm
For Tom! There is a local commuter train — pendeltag in Swedish — that takes 58 minutes from Nynashamn to Stockholm and vice versa. If you buy cash tickets at the time of the journey at the ticket booth at train station: The cost is 5 coupons that cost SEK15 each, which is SEK75. A trip back and forth Nynashamn / Stockholm would cost SEK150 per person. But you can get away cheaper! Buy discount coupons, they cost SEK145 for 20 coupons and in your case this is enough for 2 adults going back and forth! This is absolutely the best way for you. You buy discount coupons at tobacconists, Pressbyran (newspaper kiosks) and also at the ticket booth at the train station. Best regards from sunny Stockholm! Marie
Marie Blomberg <email>
Stockholm, Sweden Thu 04/29/2004

35mm photo processing in Germany??
There are Film Developing shops all over Europe and some advertise a 30 minute service.
Douglas
Italy Thu 04/29/2004

good airfares
To Granny: Try Orbitz for a good fare to Italy. You can also have them notify you when your "ideal Fare" is avail. online, a nice feature. I just did for Ireland. Or get to a London airport then take a cheap Easyjet or Ryanair or BMI airlines to Italy. All can be found and booked via their internet sites.
JS
CA USA Wed 04/28/2004

Cotswolds horseback riding
Does anyone know a good place to rent horses in the Cotswolds?
michelle ewing <email>
austin, tx USA Wed 04/28/2004

Spain train reservations
We're doing a week in Lisbon, Madrid and Barcelona in November. Planning to take the hotel train between Lisbon and Madrid, and a day train between Madrid and Barcelona. Are advance reservations advisable? If so, how early and from whom?
Craig <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Wed 04/28/2004

How to get good airfare??
I'm planning to take a solo trip to Italy in mid-Sept. 2004 but am already having difficulty getting this adventure off the ground. I can't find airfare from Ohio to Rome for less than $850. That's too high for my budget — I need something for a maximum of $600 (preferably down around $400). Where's the best place to check? I've already searched all the "cheap airfare" websites as well as the airlines own sites. Is it cheaper to buy closer to my departure or does that matter? I keep reading about people getting tickets for $400 but how do they do that? Thanks for any help.
Granny
USA Wed 04/28/2004

Amsterdam to Muchen
Dear Cathy, a train leaves the Amsterdam Central station at 20:25 arrives Munchen Hbf at 07:18, no changes. Look on the German Railway web site, you can order and buy night train reservations there. Enjoy your trip!
Joanne Sayegh <email>
El Dorado Hills, CA USA Wed 04/28/2004

train from Amstserdam to Germany and return
What is the least expensive way to travel from Amsterdam to Frankfurt or Cologne area and return, possibly going to some of the castles on the Rhine? It would be myself and 16 year old son — we have about 2 extra days while my husband has business meetings in Amsterdam.
Kris Crysler <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 04/28/2004

Night Train from Amsterdam-Munich
Does anyone know about the night train from Amsterdam-Munich? I had hoped to reserve a sleeper car, but it appears that you must switch trains somewhere in Germany. Is there a night train that goes straight from Amsterdam-Munich? Thanks for your help!
Cathy
Philadelphia, PA USA Wed 04/28/2004

Paris Museum Pass and kids
Is the paris museum pass allow a family to bypass the lines at Versailles. (Can the children follw you without standing in the ticket line on the adult museum pass the parents have)
Tom Strigle <email>
Findlay, OH USA Wed 04/28/2004

WHAT TO DO IN STUTTGART
Renee~~~~~~~~~When my wife and I spent a week in Stuttgart we found several things of interest....a short drive north to Ludwigsbur. And a 80 mile drive east to Rothenburg, the twelfth century walled city. Plan on a full day there to see all there is. Rick recommends it highly and so do I. Visit the Benz museum at the Mercedes factory in Stuttgart. Even if your interest doesn't include classic autos it is a great history of the automobile industry in Germany.
J SWEINHARDT
EL PASO, TX USA Wed 04/28/2004

BUS TRAVEL ELVORA TO SEVILLA
Damon: I found a web page which shows Estimated 250 miles To Evora: Regular train from Lisbon to Sevilla, but express bus is easier. Buses run more often in summer. There is no fare listed.
R HANDLE
JOILIET, IL USA Wed 04/28/2004

35mm photo processing in Germany??
Can one get Kodak 35mm film developed in Germany/Austria? We have not gone digital, and I'm concerned about either losing or getting exposed film damaged on the return trip. Is it possible to get one-hour developing in Germany or Austria just like I normally would when I travel to the Carribean??
Mavis <email>
CO USA Wed 04/28/2004

TRAVELING FROM GERMANY TO SWITZERLAND
Tina: I have driven from Fussen to Interlaken Bern. If you go to www.viamichelin.com and enter your two cities you will find a map and information about the route...it is 218 miles, 4 hours, 23 mins driving time. Since you will have a car and there are four persons, it will be cheaper to keep it and drive than to take the train. I suggest you stay in Interlaken and take your parents to see Grindelwald, Murren, and Schilthorn, all within a short drive. Beyond that I always find Zermatt interesting because you can see the Matterhorn; it is over 50 miles, but worth the view.
CANDY WELCH
TULSA, OK USA Wed 04/28/2004

moving to Italy
Hi, my name is Destiny. My husband and I are going to be moving to Italy for 6 to 9 mos. I've only been to Europe as a tourist. I'm interested in getting enrolled in an Italian class while I'm there. Does anyone know a good one? I'll be staying in Avezzano, but will travel. ALSO, I'm interested in getting in touch with a group that takes day or overnight tours of Europe that I can join. I appreciate any information.
Destiny <email>
Boise, ID USA Wed 04/28/2004

Milan-Hotel Speronari
We're travelling to Italy this June and made reservations in Milan at Hotel Speronari, as recommended in Rick's book. However, since then, I've seen terrible reviews from a couple places. Anyone have anything good to say or an alternative hotel in Milan? Thanks!
Jane <email>
St. Paul, MN USA Wed 04/28/2004

ISTANBUL BUS TAXI AND TRAIN
Janice: check this web page: www.tacentral.com/updates.asp?story_no=2..looks like the cost by bus is $42.
BUTCH WYDALLE
DALLAS, USA Wed 04/28/2004

Traveling from Germany to Switzerland
What is the best way to get to Switzerland (perhaps Interlaken or Bern) from Germany. We will already have a car for the Romantic Road and will be leaving from Fussen. Should we attempt to drive (how far is it?) or take a train? We have been to Interlaken before but came by train from Paris, we will be taking my parents this time, so if anyone has a better place to visit in Switzerland please let me know your opinions. Feel free to e-mail me. Thank you!
Tina <email>
Garland, TX USA Wed 04/28/2004

Nynashamn to Stockholm
Dear Tom, You can take the commuter train from Nynäshamn to the Central Station in Stockholm. I don't know the exact price, but it is very much cheaper than 69 dollars. You can check the website for the commuter trains at: www.sl.se Best regards, Annika Jonsson Bed and Breakfast Center, Stockholm Tel. +46 (0)8 730 00 03 / Fax +46 (0)8 730 52 14 e-mail: stockholm@bbc.nu or stockholm@bed-and-breakfast.se //www.bbc.nu Office hours Monday to Thursday: 1 to 5 pm, Friday: 10am to 1 pm. (except for Swedish bank holidays. ) Please note that the booking office is closed the following dates: April 30. May 21 and 31. June 25. Bookings for these dates must be made in advance.
Annika Jonsson <email>
Stockholm, Sweden Wed 04/28/2004

JS re: Europe Lodging
JS, can you specify where you'll be traveling? That would help narrow down the recommendations.
Zaida <email>
USA Tue 04/27/2004

Bus travel Evora to Sevilla
Does anyone have information on bus travel from Evora to Sevilla? (where, when, best place to buy ticket, whatever)
Damon <email>
Costa Mesa, CA USA Tue 04/27/2004

Provence/Riviera
Our family just came back from two weeks in Provence and the Riviera and I have posted comments in the Guidebook and B&B Friendliness sections if anyone is interested.
Brian <email>
Pompano Beach, FL USA Tue 04/27/2004

What to do near Stuttgart Germany area?
My husband and I are traveling to Germany in July on business for about ten days and will be staying in a town called Boeblingen which is near Stuttgart. Does anyone have suggestions for interesting evening drives or day trips we can take in that area on the weekends? I can't seem to find much in the guide books or on this site about any quaint villages or sites we should see. I'm sure there must be something — any ideas?
Renee
CO USA Tue 04/27/2004

Nynashamn to Stockholm
Our cruise shipwill dock in Nynashamn, Sweden. How far is it to Stockholm? How often do the trains run and what do they cost? The cruise lines want to charge $69 per person just for the transport to and from Stockholm and we are looking for alternatives. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.
Tom <email>
Phoenix, AZ USA Tue 04/27/2004

Pete and Notre Dame
There's usually a long line to climb the narrow winding staircase to the top of Notre Dame, but they don't allow everyone to climb at one time...I can't remember how many they allow at a time...10 maybe? There is a place half-way up with a few souvenirs...good resting point to catch your breath if you want. The climb is well worth it...to get a gargoyle-eye view of Paris...fabulous. It's really not THAT bad. It's not crowded along the stairs or anything...that's been my experience anyway. Good luck and have fun!
Brandie <email>
KS USA Tue 04/27/2004

Europe lodging for 2 @$50 a day or less.
If anyone has some great lodging references with email addresses in Europe, pls let me know. The $ xchange is very poor from my last trip to Europe in August. I prefer not to stay at hostels but at B&B's and convents or similiar.I have checked RS listings around this price, already.
JS <email>
CA USA Tue 04/27/2004

Rain in Paris
While it says that it will rain the first week you are in Paris, it won't rain ALL the time. I've been to Paris four times (all in March)...the rain is a light mist...not a heavy rain. And it seems to stop as suddenly as it starts. There is no need to cancel any outdoor plans. The Eiffel Tower is beautiful...during the day and evening. We stay in Paris for 10 days each time we go (with my university here in the states). Get a carte orange and you're good for a week with the metro and you can hop on to see the Eiffel Tower and anything else anytime. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me...Love to talk about Paris!
Brandie <email>
USA Tue 04/27/2004

Amsterdam-Hotel Keizershof
A negative comment was recently made about this hotel which needs clarity. I stayed at this hotel (B&B more than a hotel)last August it was excellent in my opinion. I knew that the bathroom would be shared however we had a sink in our room. It was very clean with better than average furnishings. The breakfast was the best I have had in Europe and served in the garden if warm enough (it was included in the low nightly rate). The owner was very helpful and friendly.Please do not expect USA accomdations in Europe for 2 star prices.
J Straw
Ca USA Tue 04/27/2004

Drop off laundry in Barcelona
Does anyone know of any drop-off laundry services in Barcelona, specifically in the placa de catalunya — the hotel I'm staying at doesn't offer this service. Thanks!
M.C. <email>
CA USA Tue 04/27/2004

Constanta,Romania to Istanbul, Turkey.
Any tips on how to get from Constanta, Romania to Istanbul by ferry? websites?
Chris <email>
Boulder, CO USA Tue 04/27/2004

Hotel Canada Venice Italy?
I reserved via fax a room at the Hotel Canada in Venice last Aug for this July. Now the fax number is not working and I can't find the hotel on the net. Can someone confirm the hotel is still ope na ndin Venice? thanks
Stewart Callahan <email>
Richmond, VA USA Tue 04/27/2004

Re: violin
I'm also a violinist, and my recommendation would be to leave the violin at home. You will be running around like crazy in Paris and Rome, and your daughter will likely have little time or energy left for impromptu concerts. Also, in major cities like Paris and Rome theft could be an issue — who will be in charge of keeping track of the instrument if you're on a train or subway? I just think it could be alot more trouble than it's worth. If you do decide to go ahead and take it with you, please make sure that it's properly insured through your homeowner's policy. Whatever you decide, happy travels!
Linda Hall <email>
Tampa, Fl USA Tue 04/27/2004

Rain in Paris
Lester It always rains in Paris or so it seems. I have been there twice late May and early June and most of the time it is just a light mist. It is just a part of the city. Take a light jacket and you will be fine.
TRI
TX USA Tue 04/27/2004

RE: Violin
If she's used to traveling with the violin (and it's not irreplaceable), I would go for it! Just as long as she's willing to play it a lot! I play the violin, and whenever I tell people, they wish I had it with me so I could play for them. It's great for conversation, especially in music-loving countries like Italy — everyone understands "violino"! Plus, nothings cuter than a KID playing violin — everyone will dote on her even more than they already would. On the other hand, it's extra baggage — I promised the Vernazza folks I would bring mine this summer, but there's no way — I'm too light of a packer! If she can stand to lug it around and keep getting it out, people will love it!
Kristin <email>
bellevue, wa USA Tue 04/27/2004

I love Paris in the Rain!
Lester, I have been to Paris many times and my favorite time is when it rains! The city is moody and the building and monuments show themselves off to best advantage with a fast moving, cloudy sky. But my luck has not been great because only been three times when it rained much at all. I live in Denver and love the rainand unfortunately we get very little of it here, and the same thing happens when I go to Seattle. No rain the whole time I am there. In fact, I doubt it rains. It is just a myth! But it is my guess that even if it says that the whole week will be rainy, you will probably squeek out a day or two that will be partly sunny, certainly dry enough to picnic someplace great. I find that when I am there and it is sunny, the museums seem emptier, so if it is raining outside, really strategize on your museum visits to avoid even larger crowds. Have a great trip!
Julie
Denver, CO USA Tue 04/27/2004

Traveling with a violin
We're doing a 10 day trip (by air) to Paris and Rome. My 10 year old daughter would like to bring her violin. What have your experiances been traveling with an instrument?
Marcia dewerd <email>
Denver, Co USA Tue 04/27/2004

Mary in Seattle — -I've had very good service from The Travel Team at their south Lake Union office. Ask for Catherine.
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 04/27/2004

Terry in Sumner, WA — -From London you'll need a train to one of the south coast ports and a ferry to Normandy. This can be sorted out with a little net surfing. Once there, Caen might make a good lay-over base — -a large D-Day museum and plenty of accomodations. Much of the town was obliterated in the fighting so a lot of what you will see is newer, post WW II construction. We stayed in Bayeaux which is considerably smaller, pretty, friendly and medieval; there was little destruction as the Brits took it on D-Day without much fighting. Whether to grasp the enormous achievement of the Allies in 1944 or to enjoy the Norman towns and countryside (as well as the Normans themselves) one day will definitely not be enough. Alternatively, you could go London-Paris directly, then on to Normandy — -about two hours by train. Best wishes.
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 04/27/2004

Terry in Sumner, WA — -From London you'll need a train to the south coast, then a ferry to Normandy. (This can be worked out with a bit of net surfing). Caen might be a good layover place (it has the biggest D-Day museum I believe, and plenty of accomodations) but we stayed in Bayeaux which is smaller, pretty , friendly and was spared destruction because the Brits took it largely without a fight on D-Day. Whether to grasp the enormous achievement of the Allies or to enjoy the Norman towns and countryside, one day will not be enough. Alternatively, you could go London-Paris, then go to Normandy — -by train perhaps two hours. Best wishes.
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 04/27/2004

Vaporetto fines
If you must board a vaporetto without a ticket (say the on-site ticket office is closed), you can avoid a fine by informing the boat agent AS YOU BOARD. He (or she) is standing right there holding the lines. Look him in the eye, greet him, and and say "Sensa biglietti" (we are without tickets). After the boat is underway, the agent will come and sell you a ticket. The cost is 3.10 euro — -the same as buying a single ticket ashore. If you don't do this, and wait until they come around asking for tickets, you will be liable for the fine — -that's the rule. For 0.60 euro, you can buy the vaporetto guide, which shows all the routes and schedules, and explains everything in Italian and English. It's a good investment and makes an interesting souvenir.
Lura
Seattle, WA USA Tue 04/27/2004

Heathrow taxi costs
I will be flying into Heathrow around 10:30pm and I've heard that the tube stops running around 11:30pm. If this is the case and for some reason I don't make it in time, what would be the cost of a taxi ride into London...on average of course. Any help would be much appreciated!!
Lindsey <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Tue 04/27/2004

Lester in San Antonio — -Paris will be wet if you get a solid week of rain. So take a rain coat or an umbrella or both and DO NOT cancel any outdoor plans! "Paris when it glistens..." and all that sort of thing. (Now if you look at my home address you might think I'm a little too sanguine about precipitation and can't be trusted — -but pay no attention to that inclination. Parisians do not all stay indoors or move to Provence when it clouds up; keep telling yourself that.) Have a great trip.
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 04/27/2004

Istria peninsula base
Thinking of taking a two-week trip to Croatia and Slovenia this summer and spending a few days in the Istria peninsula area. In terms of a place to use as a base, any opinions regarding Piran, Rovinj or Opatija?
Josh Levine <email>
White Plains, NY USA Tue 04/27/2004

Paris in the rain?
Next week I'm leaving for a 10 day trip to Paris and according to the weather reports it's going to rain the first week I'm there. I would like to know what Paris in the rain is like. Should I cancel my outdoor activities? I really don't want to miss the Eiffel tower or the Arc de Triomphe. Merci!
Lester Rosebrock <email>
San Antonio, TX USA Tue 04/27/2004

Culinary experience
I'm a culinary arts student that will be going on a trip with our department to Ixtapa, Mexico. We're looking for gourmet restaurants, kitchen tours, wineries, etc. to enrich our school experience.
Penny Eller <email>
Lemont, IL USA Tue 04/27/2004

Istanbul bus, taxi, train service
Twelve of us from the USA will arrive in Istanbul Airport and need to get to our Hotel and back.Our Hotel is in the Old City. What is the best and least expensive way.
Janice <email>
Eugene, Or USA Mon 04/26/2004

Notre Dame Climb
It is a small spiral staircase, about 15-20 people are allowed up at 1 time. you are only allowed a certain amount of time up there. There is not enough room for 2 wide to climb the stairs. I'm scared of heights but did it and Arc

USA Mon 04/26/2004

DEVAN CHECK YOUR TRAVEL TIMES YOU WILL BE DOING NOTHING BUT RUNNING FROM PLACE TO PLACE 1-2 DAYS IN LONDON, ROME — VENICE WILL NOT DO ANY JUSTICE.

USA Mon 04/26/2004

Eurail Itinerary
Can anyone let me know if this is a reasonably planned trip, in this order ? London — 2 Days Paris — 2 Days Chamonix — 1 Day Geneva — 1 Day Zurich — 1 Day Rome — 2 Days Venice — 1 Day Travelling using Europass. If not, what should we leave out ?
Deven <email>
Paramus, NJ USA Mon 04/26/2004

Notre Dame climb
Pete — It's pretty claustrophobic — a narrow spiral staircase. I'm more scared of heights than closed in spaces. I was with my kids, however, and was more frightened of them getting to the top without me, so I used Lamaze breathing, and kept climbing.
Karen
NC USA Mon 04/26/2004

CINQUE TERRE TRAINS
Jamie....from Monterossa to La Spezia is about 20 minutes on the train...but sometimes we had to wait 20 minutes for the late train. They run every hour. When you first arrive at the Monterossa station, look for the schedule posted on the window . Be prepared to stand on some trains because they are all "locals" which means many people use them to go to work or to shop. I can't remember how early we caught the train, but I believe it was around 6 am.
RICKY
HALIFAX, NS USA Mon 04/26/2004

AUSTRIAN SHOES
McKenzie.....if you want to look European wait til you get there to shoes. After you meet some Austrians you can ask one to go with you to help select the style you want. WHY risk buying here?
CARLATTA
LAREDO, TX USA Mon 04/26/2004

Shoes!
Ok, I'm a student who will be studying in Austria next year for the whole year. I want to look at least sorta European before I go. I know they wear different types of shoes. Would someone please recomend a style, color, etc.? Thanks
McKenzie <email>
Vancouver, WA USA Mon 04/26/2004

British Airlines and a contact
How do I get to someone at British Airlines who can help me? Have talked to their agents and send a registered receipt letter to the North American president! No response to three emails sent BA also. Need to know about my ticket — have sent a voucher in/they received no. Help!!!
Mary Anne Vitek <email>
Greenfield, WI USA Mon 04/26/2004

hotel in siena
anyone know of a 3 star hotel in siena very close to the center i will be traveling solo so i need a safe place
bonnie <email>
san francisco, ca USA Mon 04/26/2004

Cinque Terre trains
How long does it take to get from Monterossa in Cinque Terre to La Spezia on the local train? Does is run very early in the morning like around 6am?We would be trying to catch a very early morning train out of La Spezia around 7. Thanks
Jamie <email>
Chicago, IL USA Mon 04/26/2004

Renting Cell phone in Brussels
I have to leave on Thursday for Brussels and was wondering where is the best place to rent a cell phone in Brussels?
Nina Hallquist <email>
Tulsa, OK USA Mon 04/26/2004

Lake Constance area
Does anyone have suggestions for the Lake Constance (Bodensee) area as Rick does not cover it in his books? We will have 2 kids, 12 and 14, with us. Are the beaches ok — warm? Also, is Freudenstadt worth the drive? Any other suggestions for first-time Europe travelers? Thank you
Leigh <email>
Nashua, NH USA Mon 04/26/2004

Climbing Notre Dame
Can someone advise on how claustraphobic the climb is to the top of Notre Dame? Is it a slow climb surrounded by lots of people climbing at the same time? I really want to do this for the view, etc. etc., but suffer from claustaphobia.
Pete
Tulsa, OK USA Mon 04/26/2004

Milan Is Great!
Jamie — I agree with Frank P. about Milan. We spent about four days there in late October and after getting out of the Malpensa Airport, which we never thought we would, we thought the city very chic and charming. Lots of great restaurants, and frankly, not so crowded with tourists. We were there in late October and it was cool and rain mixed with sunny days. I have completely traded Rome for Milan. When we go there for a two week trip, we go to Milan, Florence and Venice. But truly, you cannot go wrong with your choices.
Dorian
Chicago, IL USA Mon 04/26/2004

accomodations in Amsterdam
Jane in Fredericksburg — I cannot advise you of a hotel in Copenhagen but be careful in Amsterdam. Hotels are not cheap there. We took Rick's advice on the Keizerhoff and it was not as we expected. We are not super picky, but clean, quiet, and nicely decorated are pluses. This hotel was simply run down — we were led to believe that our rm would have its own toilet, but no it was shared with 3 other couples!! My husband had suggested the Canal House which would have been a better choice for aout $25 more and definitely worth it. Good luck and have a wonderful trip! The Keukenhoff Gardens are wonderful if you will go before they close — they only grow bulbs.
Susan <email>
Atl, USA Mon 04/26/2004

CINQUE TERRE WHERE TO STAY
JOHN .....Search google.com for INFORMATION.... Search for "Cinque Terre Sights". I spent a week there two years ago and there is plenty to see. They are fishing villages so the restaurants feature fresh seafood....if you like hiking you can spend a week hiking between all of them: Monterosso , Vernazza , Corniglia , Manarola , Riomaggiore. Here is a good webpage. www.tripadvisor.com/AllReviews-g187816-Italian_Riviera.cink_html
HERMAN
DETROIT, USA Mon 04/26/2004

Day Trip to Pompeii from Rome
We'd like to take a day trip to Pompeii from Rome. Does anyone know of a good tour company — particularly one that just does Pompeii and not Naples, etc.? Green Line seems the best choice so far but they do include Naples. Thanks.
A. <email>
Lansing, MI USA Mon 04/26/2004

TRAIN CINQUE TERRE TO VENICE
Jamie....after checking the train schedule, I see that the ride from Venice to Milano is exactly 3 hours. You might be able to make connection in Milano and arrive in 6 hours, but a lot depends on your train arriving on time and how much layover time you take in Milano. It will be a tiring day. I have ridden the Italian trains often and they are seldom on time. There is not much scenery on this route.
RICARDO
DALLAS, TX USA Mon 04/26/2004

Train Cinque Terre to Venice
Yes I have done this train ride. Only we went the opposite way Venice to CT. We changed trains in Milan. On that train early in the morning it is very crowded (and smokey) with business people commuting to work in Milan on the weekdays. Then from Milan we only stopped in Florence — no train changes. By the time we got to Le Spezia(sp) we were the only ones on the train and the conductor was so nice and friendly. It is kind of a long train ride (very scenic though) but you will get to your destination early enough to get settled and sightsee a little and have a nice dinner.
Tina <email>
TX USA Mon 04/26/2004

Cinqueterre to Venice
Will we be wasting a whole day travelling from Cinquterre to Venice? If we leave early in the morning and catch a connecting train in Florence, I'm figuring about a 6 hour commute to venice...does this seem accurate and has anyone done this trip? Any tips or advice is welcome. Thanks
Jamie <email>
Chicago, IL USA Mon 04/26/2004

ITALIAN TRAIN FIRST VS SECOND CLASS
Carol~~~~~I have read at least 20 questions like yours on this page. There are also 20 different answers to those questions. What Charles Luther says is true.....but much depends on your tastes and your comfort zone. Every Italian train is different dependent on the time of year, the time of day and the part of Italy you are in. Generalizations are easy to make, but often are not true. I have ridden in second class cars which were clean, uncrowded, quiet and friendly. The only assurance you have in first class is that your seats will cost more. I always let the cost determine which class I buy. There may be more luggage space in first because it may not be as crowded and you can place your bags at your feet on or your seat. Small bags will fit on the shelves overhead in both classes.
BUTCH
DALLAS, TX USA Sun 04/25/2004

CUSTOMS QUESTION
Roger.....You will DEFINITELY go through customs in Frankfurt and MAYBE again at Venice, but if so there is nothing you can do about it. Since the EU is in effect, you may not see customs at Venice.
HARRIET
TULSA, OK USA Sun 04/25/2004

Holiday Inn Heathrow
John, Check the Holiday Inn Heathrow. www.holidayinnlondonheathrow.activehotels.com I have a double for 56 pounds on August 22. It is 1 1/2 miles from Heathrow — you can ride the bus. Regards, Jinx Hoover
Jinx Hoover <email>
Austin, Tx USA Sun 04/25/2004

BUYING EUROS
Barbara: Take a look at all the previous letters in this section regarding exchanging money. Most recommend using ATM machines. Don't buy foreign currency in the US. It will cost you far less in Europe. If you don't have an ATM card get one from your bank...they are free and will save you lots of time and money. Most experienced travelers use them. Clyde Jersey city n j
CLYDE
JERSEY CITY, NJ USA Sun 04/25/2004

won a trip to venice....HELP!
Hi! I recently won a trip for two to Venice, Italy and was told that I could pick the hotel! {I,m not sure that that's a good thing or not!} I've been researching the net but there are too many options and it's always hard to tell about a property from a picture! it has to be a 3 star hotel somewhere around 150-200 dollars. Also, should I stay right in Venice or on the mainland? I'm considering going at the end of september or the first of august...good time or still too hot?...and, of course, info on any restaurants or quaint out of the way places is always appreciated! Thanks!
Tammy Quintanar <email>
seattle , wa USA Sun 04/25/2004

1st Class or Second
Carol: I think Barbara is wrong. The advantages for 1st Class seating on Italian trais are: Less crowded, you avoid often large student groups who are noisy and not always too polite, the seats are larger and are more comfortable, there is more luggage space available, refreshments are more easily available, 1st Class cars are closer to the front of the station, and Italian travelers are more likely to speak English and are just as friendly. 2nd Class is certainly cheaper and, as Rick says, the cars get there at the same time. If you are saving money and don't mind the crowding, pushing and shoving, travel 2nd Class.
Charles M. Luther
USA Sun 04/25/2004

BUYING EUROS IN U.S.
Barbara...I agree with Karen below....you will find ATMs in the airport when you land...go there first and make a withdrawal. In the last 10 years I have asked for an ATM when I land and have always found one in the airport. You can buy whatever you need immediately and you will find machines on every corner, outside banks, in dept stores, grocery stores, service stations, post offices, almost any place you choose....but be sure you use the ATM card and not the credit card to avoid extra fees. Before you go call your bank and ask what the fee will be for withdrawal in Europe. Buying currency is the most expensive way to exchange. Using ATM machines is the least costly. I always take 50 one dollar bills for small purchases where the vendor will accept them.
ALLANE
SACRAMENTO, CA USA Sun 04/25/2004

Heathrow room accommodations
What is a good place to spend the night near London's Heathrow airport?
John <email>
Raleigh, NC USA Sun 04/25/2004

Amersterdam and Copenhagen
Where's a great place to stay in Amsterdam and in Copenhagen? I'd like it to be well-located, clean, and reasonably priced. I've read Rick's suggestions in his books but would like help narrowing it down. We are 4 adults in our 50s. We go in June/July.
Jane Kolakowski <email>
Fredericksburg, VA USA Sun 04/25/2004

Italian Train Travel
Regarding whether to travel by first or second class on Italian trains, I can only refer to my personal experience. Second class seats are comfortable. There was plenty of room for my suitcase overhead. There are far more cars for second class seating than first so I assume that most people agree with me.
Barbara <email>
CT USA Sun 04/25/2004

Travel Agent
Can anyone suggest a good travel agent in Seattle or Seattle area? Thanks! -MC
Mary <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sun 04/25/2004

Weather in France in September?
What is the weather like in France in September? Indian summer or rainy? THANKS!
Alan Travis <email>
El Cerrito, CA USA Sun 04/25/2004

first versus second class train
What are the advantages of travelling first class versus second class on the Eurostar system in Italy? Larger seats, more space, what about luggage space?
carol
vancouver, BC canada Sun 04/25/2004

apartment rental in Rome and Sorrento
I'd like a nice apartment in Rome, for 2 adults and 2 children ages 8/6, quite street and affordable (110-200 euro/night) for 5 nights in July. Easy access to public transport on quite street. Any suggestions? Same question for apartment for 4 nights in Sorrento close to ferry, bus and atractions. Thanks.
Chandra <email>
Portland, OR USA Sun 04/25/2004

detour to Normandy from London to Paris
How do we get from London to the Normandy beach sights on our way to Paris. One day layover where should we stay?
Terry Davidson <email>
sumner, WA USA Sun 04/25/2004

Dinner in Gimeelwald
My family is spending some time in Gimmelwald, Switzerland, staying at Esther's Guest House. Breakfast is on site. Where should we eat supper (we're going in May when the Pensione Gimmelwald is closed)?
Beatrice Van Winkle <email>
Besozzo, VA Sun 04/25/2004

Burg Eltz / RK in Berkeley
RK in Berkeley: It is indeed about an hour from the Moselkern station. It's maybe a 20 min. walk on a paved, level road from the station to the "Ringelsteiner Muehle" — a restaurant/outdoor cafe at the end of the road. And I think the 35-min estimate for the walk from there to Burg Eltz is about right. It's an enjoyable walk rather than a hike, I'd say. I'm 50 and did it two years ago with my wife, daughter age 14, and in-laws, 73 and 74, one with a bad hip, one with a bad knee. None of us are athletes. None of us thought it was difficult. There are a few inclines, but it's really just a simple walk. You can always take a refreshment break at the Muehle if you find it otherwise.
Russ <email>
Galt, CA USA Sun 04/25/2004

Zoom Airlines
Looking for anyone's experiences with Zoom Airlines. Can't beat their prices, but tight baggage restrictions. Any comments....
Jillian <email>
Regina, SK Canada Sun 04/25/2004

Burg Elz without car
BUR ELZ looks intriguing, but I am concerned about getting there from the train. Their website claims one can hike there in just 35 minutes: "From the hiking car park "Ringelsteiner Mühle" in Moselkern along the romantic Elz river valley (About 35 minutes)". Where is this hiking car park? Rick says it's an hour walk. Is it the same path? If you've done it (train plus hike), what was your experience? We (2 adults , a 10-y.o. and a 14 y.o.) are in reasonable shape, but don't do a lot of hiking. Will it be too hard? Do we have other options?
R.K.
Berkeley, CA USA Sat 04/24/2004

Buying Euros is US
There is usually at least one bank in an average size city that handles foreign currency — does not need to be your own bank. However, while the rate is not quite as bad as AAA, it's still lots cheaper to get them in Europe. We always take some US dollars in our money belts (a few hundred for emergencies) and ATM cards. We've always been able to find an ATM at the airport before heading out, and if not, there are always places to exchange cash dollars for euros — just a few to get into town if you don't find the ATM. Another option is to buy online — we used Chase Manhattan once and it worked fine — just haven't bothered for many years now, since ATMs seem to be on almost every street corner.
Karen <email>
CO USA Sat 04/24/2004

Barcelona — Hotel Continental
My husband and I stayed at the Hotel Continental in 2002 with my retired in-laws. It was fine for them (and us) — great location, private bath, friendly staff. And our room was quiet, so we were on the Ramblas, but could also escape from it.

St. Paul, MN USA Sat 04/24/2004

Customs Question
I will be flying United/Luftansa from Chicago to Venice with a stop (plane change)in Frankfurt. Would I go through customs in Frankfurt or Venice?
Roger <email>
Verona, WI USA Sat 04/24/2004

Cinqueterre, Italy
Any suggestions on where to stay in or near Cinqueterre, Italy?
John <email>
Raleigh, NC USA Sat 04/24/2004

Chur, Switzerland
Looking at hotels and reviews on several sites, we have seen little in Chur, Switzerland other than Hotel Stern. The one personal review we got was totally negative. Has anyone stayed there that liked it (an was not bothered by the church bells)? Are there any other hotels other than ABC which is near the train station?
Bill <email>
Santa Cruz, CA USA Sat 04/24/2004

Rome FCO to Siena
When you walk out of Rome airport (Da Vinici) walk up the stairs and across the street and straight into the airport train station. Buy your tickets to Rome termini and also from termini to Siena. (http://www.fs-on-line.com/ ) this shows you the train schedule you will have to change trains in Chiusi. Questions e-mail me hschulte47@yahoo.com
Henry <email>
Wichita, Ks USA Sat 04/24/2004

Theater in London
We ordered theater tickets through Londontheatre.com. We had heard it is possible to get them last minute at good prices,etc. but we found out if it is still a really popular play in London this is not going to work. There were very few left for "Phantom" on our evening of choice but luckily we did get them.
Susan <email>
Atl, USA Sat 04/24/2004

Barcelona — Hotel Continental
Has anyone stayed at either the Hotel Continental or its cousin, the Hotel Continental Palacete in Barcelona? My sisters and my dad are going to Spain, and I want to find a place that's economical but good enough for a dad, if you know what I mean. The Palacete is a little more expensive, but I'm not sure if it's worth it. Thoughts?
Anita <email>
USA Sat 04/24/2004

euros
where in the U.S. can I get Euros @ the day's exchange rate? tried my bank...no go..and AAA has a horrible rate for them. any ideas? TY
barbara <email>
houston, tx USA Sat 04/24/2004

Digital camera battery recharger
WE are going to Italy next month. I will need to recharge my Canon battery pack for the 330 Elph. What do I need besides the small prong converter plug>
Janet Walsh <email>
Springfield, OR USA Sat 04/24/2004

Train from Rome to Siena
I'm flying into Rome in May and want to take the train to Siena. How far from the airport to the train station and how do you get there? Taxi? Any other tips would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Clark Maffitt <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Sat 04/24/2004

CINQUE TERRE AND MILAN
Jamie....Frank P below makes my point about Milan being like every other Italian town. He lists the Galleria, the Mural, Opera House., Cathedral. EVERY Italian town has those and you have perobably seen them. Only sight not seen in other towns is the Last Supper, but you can find a few of them around the world. There is no area comparable to Cinque Terre. Almalfi is similar, but not as large or as scenic. Spend your time well and go to CT.
BUTCH WYDALLE
DALLAS, TX USA Sat 04/24/2004

Blue Rose B&B Rome
Hi all, Has anyone out there stayed at the Blue Rose B&B, Via Principe Umberto, Rome? Or any other hotel/B&B in the same area? I have recently booked for 3 nights here and have heard some rather negative reviews about hotels so close to the Termini Station! Any advice or info would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!!
Lisa Jones <email>
Leicester, England, EM UK Sat 04/24/2004

ACCOMMODATIONS NEAR TOULOUSE AIRPORT
Bonnie.....if you want cheap and clean try Formule1, an Accor chain at www.hotelformule1.com. We have stayed in many of them and find them better and cheaper than other European facilities. I have the 2002 directory which lists a unit at Toulouse Airport. Phone 08 91 70 54 10. Room rate for 1, 2, or 3 persons is 24 Euros, daily or weekend. I have reserved by email and received confirmation at the two units I visited in Sweden, where we paid $19 and $22 for a room for 1, 2, or 3 persons..... Proper spelling is Formule 1 (number one). I can recommend them even though the bath is down the hall; they are spotless.
ELMO RUDICHE
ST LOUIS, MO USA Fri 04/23/2004

Hotel Near Ciampino
Does anyone know of a clean, safe, reasonable place to stay near ciampino airport?
Annie
Dallas, TX USA Fri 04/23/2004

Milan
I disagree with Butch's comments about Milan. I think it is a great city that is often short changed in guidebooks and overlooked by others. You can easily spend a couple days or more in the city. You have a great cathedral, the Galleria, the Last Supper Mural, the Milan Opera House, etc. — I could go on.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Fri 04/23/2004

D-Day Tour...oops!
Oops! I forgot to include th link to Victory Tours. Her it is: http://www.lignerolles.homestead.com/
Steven <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA Fri 04/23/2004

Re D-Day Tour
Steve, As many have stated on this web site before...Victory Tours is a superb idea! Roel Klinkhamer gives a personal tour (limit is 8). Many folks have stated that they were very pleased withy his knoledge and persomal attention to detail. My wife, daughter, and I will be using his service this June! Below, please find a link to his site. You will have a choice of a 4 hour or 8 hour tour. Good luck!
Steven <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA Fri 04/23/2004

CINQUE TERRE
Jamie;;;;;;November is a delightful time to visit CT. We spent a week there in that month two years ago. If your choice is staying Milan or seeing the five villages, it is a no-brainer. Go and take lots of film. There is not that much unusual to see in Milan...to me it is much like every other town of its age in Italy. ...as for the time of year, you will like the weather. Being so close to the Mediterranean Sea keeps it mild....although it rains lightly occasionally it doesn't prevent one from hiking the cliffs and exploring the village stores and restaurants. Two days is not enough to see all of the "Five Lands," but you can see most of the sights. Take the 2 minute train ride between villages if you don't hike the trail. Be sure to eat some fish...since most restaurants feature that product of the villages.
BUTCH WYDALLE
DALLAS, TX USA Fri 04/23/2004

Carry-Ons on British Airways
Has anyone had any trouble staying within the 13 lb. limit for carry-on for British Airways? I'm travelling coach class and the limit is one 13lb. bag.
Michele <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Fri 04/23/2004

hotels in Prague & Budapest
travelling to Prague & Budapest in September. Any suggestions on moderate priced hotels near main sites.
John Sibilia <email>
Sunnyvale, Ca USA Fri 04/23/2004

LA Travel Agencies
Question: I need a referral to a travel agent in LA that can help me with my trip to Europe that I am doing on a shoestring budget! I specifically need help flying open jaw (into London, out of Athens). Any ideas?
Desiree <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Fri 04/23/2004

Ireland — bike helmets regularly available?
Are bicycle helmets for children and adults regularly available at bicycle rental locations in Ireland, or should we bring our own?
Rosemary Daszkiewicz <email>
Seattle, WA USA Fri 04/23/2004

Venice Cruise Dock to the airport
Most cruise lines offer transfers to the airport for a reasonable fee. You should be able to book it before your trip through your cruise line or your travel agent. Or you can book it on board your ship.
Robert Hilton <email>
Hiawatha, ks USA Fri 04/23/2004

BERLIN HISTORIC SITES
Michael~~~~~try these three pages for a list of important sights.... www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g187323-Berlin-Vacations.cink_html~~~~ http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-1230601-berlin_attractions-i~~~~ www.worldexecutive.com/cityguides/berlin/attractions.html.
B McArthur
Atlanta, GA USA Fri 04/23/2004

Cinque Terra in Nov
For Jamie, Cinque Terra is a fun spot but better if it is not raining. Perhaps you could decide once you get to Florence when you know the forecast. Reser. at that time of yr should be no prob. wherever you go. Also consider San Gimignano about a 2 hr bus ride from Florence.
J Straw
CA USA Fri 04/23/2004

Accommodation near Toulouse Airport
Bonnie. The Accor Group have hotels all over France at a wide variety of prices, and there is a hotel in their Ibis chain near Toulouse Airport. Go to http://www.accorhotels.com/. The hotel may not be exciting, but is fine for the night before a flight.
Bob <email>
Bristol, UK Fri 04/23/2004

Berlin and historic sites
What kind of historical sites are there to visit in Berlin, Germany pertaining to World WAr activties?
Michael Davidson <email>
Hanmpton, Can Fri 04/23/2004

Accommodations near Toulouse Airport
My flight leaves at 7:00 a.m. from Toulouse airport. Need cheap accommodations near Toulouse airport. Any recommendations? What I've found so far have been over 100 euros. Merci Bonnie-twtravelers@cs.com
Bonnie <email>
Tigard, OR USA Fri 04/23/2004

Cinque Terra
We were planning on going to the Cinque Terra for two days while in italy in November...is this a waste to go there that time of year? Should we just stay in Florence a day or two longer and do some side trips instead? Our schedule right now is 3 nights in Rome, Florence 2 nights in Cinque Terra and 3 nights in Venice. Thanks
Jamie <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 04/23/2004

Venice crise terminal to airport
For Carey Almond: Access this site and all will be revealed. If not get back to me. http://www.atvo.it/eng/airport.php?ld=index_vat.php&id=0&var=v
Graham <email>
Port Talbot, Wales Fri 04/23/2004

ship to airport in venice
I am ending a cruise in Venice and need info on getting to the airport from the grand canal where the ship is docked. Any help?
carey almond <email>
athens, ga USA Fri 04/23/2004

Aug in Rome, Venice, Florence
I have been in these 3 cities in Aug. it is very hot & humid. A/c is a must for a good nights sleep. Drink lots of water, wear light clothing and start early. Go to museums during peak heat and stroll in the evening as it cools. Not the best time to be there but we must go when we can.
J Straw
Ca USA Thu 04/22/2004

Hotel Near the Vatican
The Hotel Alimandi near the Vatican museum was an incredibly convenient find for the traveller wanting to spend time exploring the Vatican and its treasures. Reasonably priced.....the staff INCREDIBLY helpful.....The hotel is about 4 blocks from subway stations and 2 blocks from bus stops. We had no problem using public transpo for the farther-away sights like the Forum, Colosseum, etc. Our Quad was suprisingly spacious (our legs didn't bump into the beds) and the shuttle to the airport was the perfect stress-free way to end our trip. The water pressure was the only disappointment.
vicky <email>
MN USA 04/22/04

RE: Contact Lenses
Getting a year's worth of disposable lenses (the kind you keep for two weeks, taking out at night, then throwing away for new pair)is about the same as getting one pair now. They're great, because you can pack your case and solution for the hotel, but for daypack situations, you can just throw in a couple of new ones for "just in case" — the containers are teeny — like just packing a contact case. I always just throw a couple of extra in my suitcase so if I lose one on the trip I'm prepared with spares. I don't even bring glasses anymore.
Kristin <email>
USA 04/22/04

RE: Tuscan Towns
We thought Montepulciano was charming, and I would have loved to stay there (we just drove for the evening from Siena). We hardly saw a tourist (besides ourselves, of course!), but it may have been a case of the daytrippers being gone already, since I did see some shops that looked like they would be for tourists. There were lovely parks, incredible views, and of course great wine! Relaxing and wonderful.
Kristin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA 04/22/04

Re Venice in August
I actually prefer the -40 degree weather of Canada, but have spent many August days in or near Venice, and enjoy the city and surroundings immensely. If you are not visiting for shopping — but for immersing yourself in the atmosphere and culture, it shouldn't matter much when you visit (although the spring Carnevale is unique!). Midday temperatures are around +40 Celcius, and the humidity can be stiffling. Still, a visit to a bar for a sandwich and drink, and a small backpack holding a litre of water should get you through. That said — if you are faint of heart — suffer greatly from heat stress or similar — maybe spending your August in Venice could be questionable. I still like to feel the wind passing though my linen clothes as I walk along the alleyways of Venice, with only stray cats crossing my path, and the rasping of the tides against the walls to distract me.
Lauchlin Murray <email>
Padua, Italy 04/22/04

Italy in August
We went to Venice last year in late May and we were miserable, I could not imagine being there in August and we are native Houstonians. It was very hot and humid. During the time that you indicated, many of the locals leave the city and with good reason. Consider going there during the fall or early spring and you should have a more enjoyable vacation.
<email>
Houston, TX USA 04/22/04

Italy in August
We are thinking about traveling to Rome, Venice, and Florence in August. Has anyone had anyone had any experience during the off season? Is it too much of a problem? Also, how bad is the heat?
JD <email>
Ft Worth, TX USA 04/22/04

Bellagio B&B
I would like a review of Il perlo pamorama B&B in Bellagio. thanks!
Carol <email>
sebastopol, ca USA 04/22/04

Royal Phare Hotel, Paris
Janet in Boonville — we have stayed here twice. Small, but great service. Absolutely the BEST hot chocolate in Paris and the fresh croissants from the downstairs bakery make breakfast a MUST!!!
MSK <email>
CV, CA USA 04/22/04

2004 or 2005?
Kathy, I think you missed Easter Monday this year, being on April 12th and all. Do you mean for 05? Just wondering
Brigitte
London, UK USA 04/22/04

Convent Lodging in Rome
Has anyone been to Casa Unione Misterium Christi (Via Merulana, 1740 Rome? If so, could you please give me a description? Many thanks.
Tina <email>
Houston, TX USA 04/22/04

Toronto Canada
Hi, I want to find a cheap hotel or hostel next to Metro Toronto Convention Center or the Sky Dome,any suggestions, thanks
Deanna <email>
Lompoc, Ca USA 04/22/04

Easter Monday
I will be in London on Easter Monday. Can anyone advise as to what I can expect in terms of stores and restaurants being open for business?
Cathy
Hamilton, Canada 04/22/04

Venice hotel
I forgot to add that the Orseolo is 160 euros with a canal view on a small side street not far from San Marco, the La Calcina is in Dorsoduro ranging from 140-150 euros. I put the wrong email of mine in the last post, this is the correct one. thnks
Jamie <email>
Chicago, IL USA 04/22/04

Venice hotel in November
Has anyone stayed at Locanda Orseolo in Venice, it's gotten rave reviews on tripadvisor, but I wanted to see if anyone here had heard anything about it. It seems fantastic, but I want to be sure before I book a room. The other hotel we are considering is Hotel La calcina which has gotten good reviews on the message boards and in Rick's book. my only concern there is the annoyance of reserving the room with a personal check, not by credit card. Thanks for any input. Jamie
Jamie <email>
Chicago, IL USA 04/22/04

Paris Hotel/Day Rates
I arrive Paris CDG airport at 9:00am on Friday. I want to take night train Paris to Rome at 7:00pm same day. Are there any hotels near CDG or Gare de Lyon that allow day rates? I want to shower and freshen up before the night train but don't want to pay full rate. Thx.
Richard Wooldridge <email>
Louisville, KY USA 04/22/04

Tour Guide for D-Day Beaches?
My daughter and I will be visiting the WWII landing beaches in Normandy in early July. Can anyone recommend a tour guide for us?
Steve Roberts <email>
Mercer Island, WA USA 04/22/04

bars
are there gay clubs
darcy
USA 04/22/04

HOTEL CLOSE TO FCO ROME
Johnny Weber >.....I found this report on the internet... A non-stop train goes from FCO to the train terminal at the center of Rome, approximately Euro 8 per person.
BUTCH
EL PASO, TX USA 04/22/04

Sharon, about London-to-Paris overnight
SHARON: I took a London-to-Paris overnight tour with Golden Tours (www.goldentours.co.uk), and they did a good job. Included was transportation on the Eurostar, an orientation drive around the city, a tour of the Louvre, a night's lodging at a Sofitel (it was a bit outside downtown but had easy access to public transportation), and a Seine river cruise (and a few other things I can't think of offhand). There was plenty of free time, and you were welcome to drop out and sightsee on your own if you wanted (just don't miss your return train).
Dave
Strongsville, OH USA 04/21/04

hotel close to FCO Rome airport
Does anyone know of a reasonably priced hotel close to Rome's FCO airport?
Johnnie Weber <email>
San Antonio, TX USA 04/21/04

Re Paris Rental
Susan, I have not used that site. However, if that place does not work out, try the site we used for our apartment in Paris this June: www.rentals-paris.com Good luck in your search!
Steven <email>
Cincinnati, OH USA 04/21/04

Siena to Assisi
Check the bus schedule at: http://www.sena.it/ENG/activenews.asp?idcat=&idart=3227&azione=orari&layout=
Henry <email>
Wichita, USA 04/21/04

photograph
My husband and I plan to travel to England, France and Italy this fall. I plan to take a digital camera with 2-256 flash cards, and 1 gig one. My question is has anyone had experience not only finding a photo shop to download to a CD, but do you take an unformatted R-CD or RW-CD? And the other question is, if you have done this how were the photos once you got home and tried to take them off the CD using your own computer. Any problems? Because obviously once the photos are deleted from the flash card they are gone if they are on the CD.
judy <email>
beaverton, or USA 04/21/04

hotel on Rein
Has anyone stayed at the rhein-hotel-bacharach Germany? Im trying to decide between the above and Hotel Kranenturm Thanks
Jennifer <email>
Hermosa Beach, ca USA 04/21/04

CARRYING CAMERA
Stephanie.....I have carried 2 35mm cameras through 45 countries in the 20 years I have traveled. On my last 4-week trip I also carried a 35mm point and shoot just for fun. Don't be concerned about the size. The quality of your pictures and the ease and convenience of using your camera should be your concern. My big camera weighs twice as much as my smaller camera but does not have a zoom lense. I use my smaller camera when I need the zoom. Let the features of your camera determine your usage. Always keep you camera under your jacket out of sight to protect it. Don't walk about with it dangling from your neck in view. Camera thieves can slice the strap and be gone in a second.
ANDY H
ARDMORE, OK USA 04/21/04

Carrying a camera
Do you suggest carrying a hand size camera with good picture quality or a camera with a large lens EXCELLENT picture quality? I do not know if I should take the extra weight/precaution/and handling with the larger camera?
Stephanie <email>
Hartford, WI USA 04/21/04

paristay.com
Has anyone ever rented an apt in Paris through paristay.com? I am lookig at one that looks like a good deal, would love to hear any feedback! Thanks!
Susan Bennett <email>
Fairfax, VA USA 04/21/04

Asissi to Siena
When I was in Siena several years ago, I found the bus and train schedules to Asissi so impossible that I rented a car for the trip. Hopefully, someone will know if the situation has improved recently.
Rex <email>
Decatur, GA USA 04/21/04

Easyjet airlines
Has anyone used Easyjet Airlines for European travel, in particular, between London and Paris, and between London and Munich?
sharon <email>
Longwood, FL USA 04/21/04

travel schedule
we would like to travel from asissi to siena..what is the best way..by train or bus..how can I find schedules?
paul pinsonault <email>
flanders, n.j. USA 04/21/04

Berlin Hotels
Has anyone stayed at the "Hotel Bogota Berlin" ? And do they have any comments ?
Bernadette Mahoney <email>
Laurel, NY USA 04/21/04

Fishing Opportunities
le Cinque Terra fishing? We plan to be in the area late June and would love to take a half day fishing trip. We would love to get some recommendations or perhaps there is a better area for this type of activity. Connie Minneapolis, MN
Connie <email>
Eden Prairie, MN USA 04/21/04

Tea in London
We've had tea at Brown's, Harrods and the Ritz. The Ritz was excellent. Faxed ahead to make a reservation (may be able to email now). Worth the money. They kept coming around and offering more desserts. Scheduled it before going to the theater. We were so full we didn't need dinner after the show.
dee <email>
Lake Forest, CA USA 04/21/04

Travel N.Spain or N.Italy
Hi, am interestexplore N.Spain or White Villages or N.Italy.Have 2wk+/- window late June/early July.Am fairly well travl, look Budget1** lodging, rent car,share some meals interesting,nonsmoker not 4 romance, fun, must like travel adventures.
Nancy <email>
atlanta, GA USA 04/21/04

BARCELONA
ANITA~~~~~~Sorry I can't recommend a hotel because my wife and I stayed with friends. But I can tell you that the weather is ideal almost year round. Since the city is on the Mediterranean it does not get hot or cold. However, it will rain in the afternoon occasionally . If you have been to southern Italy you will recognize the similarity of weather. I always take a sweater and plastic rain coat just in case I need one. A small umbrella is handy also if you have space in your luggage. Annemarie Shreveport la
JOSE C
SHREVEPORT, LA USA 04/21/04

SIZE LIMITS FOR CARRYONS
MVP ....after having traveled for 25 years and flown many airlines, I will assure you that some lines differ in requirements and every one changes its requirements frequently. I have 6 carryons; 4 are 22 inches long. I have never been denied boarding with the small ones. But that could happen next time. My other two are larger and I usually check them. If I were flying now I would call your airline and talk to a real person about sizes. Don't rely on info off the airline webpage..... I have read accounts of travelers experiencing different bag limits in foreign countries....and varying from departure city to city. I guess we must be flexible during these times.
AMOS W
reno, nv USA 04/21/04

HOSTELING WITH STRANGERS
Brittany. Since I have been to 50 countries and visited hostels in 13 of them I can advise you on the average hostel, but remember there are always exceptions. Hostels are great for all types of travelers-from back-packers to old timers like me. You can rent a bunk in a dorm with 10 to 20 others or rent a room for 1,2,3,or 4 persons. I have paid as little as $18 for a room for 2 with bath and breakfast in Athens and up to $30 for a room for 2 with bath down the hall and no breakfast. I advise that you look at any room before renting it. The only time you should reserve and pay in advance is when rooms are scarce or you will arrive late. Always email the hostel to confirm room size availability and cost. I always join Hosteling International (www.iyhf.org which will list many of the hostels in Europe, but not all) every year so I get the discount if there is one at each hostel and I can buy the directory which lists and describes all member hostels in Europe. I take it with me and call a couple of days in advance or email the hostels I plan to visit. You can find other hostels listed at www.hostels.com .
VINCE B
FORT WORTH, TX USA 04/21/04

Travel in Spain
My boyfriend and I will be in Spain together for two weeks, and are trying to decide between a eurorail pass, or pt to pt tickets (bus and train) We plan on travelling extensively, and are concerned that because we want to take a lot of stops to explore along the way, that pt tickets will prove to be very expensive? I'm grateful for any insight!
Kate <email>
Portland, OR USA 04/21/04

Hosteling with Strangers
I have a question about Hostels, me and my friend were planning a trip all around Europe and I was told it'd be easier to stay in a hostel, so I began to look up hostels and found many. My question to you all is do you have to share your hostel room with people you don't know, for example are you paired off with anyone you don't know? Or can you stay in your own room with the person you are traveling with? Write Back Brittany
Brittany <email>
CO USA 04/21/04

About St.Marks Cathedral
Anyone who is respectful is able to attend any catholic service anywhere in the world. Just walk in, and follow the attendants. You must dress according to the place, I went to Venice several years ago, and I had to cover my shoulders, I assume it's the same now. They use to show the schedule in front of any church, or they may have an internet site, or ask at your hotel.

Houston, TX USA 04/21/04

Does anyone know if a tourist is allowed in to the regular Sunday Morning church services at St.Marks Cathedral in Venice, how you would be able to get in for this and what time the services are held?

USA 04/20/04

overnight tour from london to paris
Any suggestions for a nice and economical overnight all inclusive tour from London to Paris. A few years back my daughter took one that included overnight lodging and a tour of a perfumery and winery with the second day at your leisure for independent sight seeing. Want something that has the lodging and transportation included, along with a tour.
sharon <email>
Longwood, FL USA 04/20/04

Size limits for international carry on
I am told by my local luggage purveyor that, because I will be travelling internationally, I will need to confine myself to a carry-on that is only 20 inches tall. I would rather purchase a 22 inch bag. I have looked on the websites of the US airlines; they are OK with 22 inches. The Ecuadorian and Peruvian airlines on which we will travel do not specify size limits on their websites. Has anyone had trouble carrying on a 22 inch bag for international travel?
MVP <email>
Denver, CO USA 04/20/04

Barcelona
I'm taking my father to Barcelona and would like to know when is the best time in the summer to go? Also, can anyone recommend a good, clean, not-too-expensive hotel? There will be four of us traveling together. Thanks!
Anita <email>
Lexington, KY USA 04/20/04

EUROSTAR DISCOUNT
John; Here are three phone numbers you can call to get an answer to your quesiton. ~~~ 1 800 782 2424~~~ 1 800 248 8687~~~ 1 800 438 7245.
ELMO RUDDY
NEW YORK CITY, NY USA 04/20/04

Loire Valley Restaurant suggestions
We are staying at the Chateau La Bourdaisiere inthe Loire Valley and would appreciate restaurant recommendations for the area! Traveling with two little boys. Thank you Christine
Christine <email>
Long Beach, CA USA 04/20/04

Eurostar discount
What is the discount on a Eurostar trip from London to Brussels if you have a Eurail Pass?
John Davis <email>
Seattle, WA USA 04/20/04

Re: London to Normandy
Wes last Nov. we travelled London to Normandy for a tour of the D-Day beaches. I found the quickest and easiest way was evening train London to Portsmouth and an overnight sailing on Brittany Ferries to Ouistreham (Caen. Cabins are small but comfortable. I highly recommend "Battlebus" tours (see lots of comments on WWII Battlefield section of this website). Also check out www.megabus.com for new cheap coach fares London to Portsmouth. Contact me if you have any questions.
G. Shook <email>
Surrey, BC Canada 04/20/04

PARIS — CINQUE TERRE TRAVEL
PARIS-CINQUE TERRE TRAVEL Dana~~~~~~~If you take the train from Paris to CT you will have lots of hours of the same scenery. My wife and I flew to Milano and railroaded to CT. You may fly one way for $99 or less on euorpebyair.com. While there for a week we rode the train daily to the other 4 villages and some villages south of CT. That is the best way to travel that area. Try some of the discount European airlines such as europebyair.com, bmibaby.com, easyjet.com, virgin-express.com, volareweb.com.~~~~~We flew europebyair 3 times to athens and moscow so we can recommend it as a great and cheap way to travel.
CHARLOTTE
TULSA, OK USA 04/20/04

USING INTERNET IN EUROPE
Kathy.......you don't need your computer...the cyber cafes hostels have them. Some have a European keyboard so ask for the English keyboard. Also I suggest you write out in advance any messages you plan to send to save time on the computer. If using one in a hostel doesn't work, ask for facilities in departmet stores. I never had to ask more than two persons to locate one even in small towns in Germany, Austria or Slovakia.
HENRY L
PORTLAND, ME USA 04/20/04

CONVENIENT CAR RETURN LONDON
Ron: Advice from travelers is OK, but if I were you I would call the rental agency at their toll free number and ask your question. They should know all of the drop points on the North side and which one is most convenient for you.
ANDY OROURKE
SALEM, OR USA 04/20/04

HEATHROW TO GATWICK
The cheapest way I have found for under 4 people is by bus. The information is on www.gobycoach.com It's the website for National Express, the only company I could find that still runs bus service between the airports.
Camille <email>
Denver, CO USA 04/20/04

Overnight Trains-Krakow-Prague-Budapest
My husband and I plan to take two overnight trains: Krakow to Prague, and Budapest to Krakow. What are your experiences taking these trains? Are the sleeper cars really private? What is the cost?
Pam <email>
East Peoria, IL USA 04/20/04

John Davis — -I think what you need is the card usually referred to as an "OAP" (old age pensioner). You can get one at any Brit Rail ticket counter for 18 pounds. It will save you about 1/3 on any tickets you purchase. You will need proof of age (over 60, as I recall); your passport should serve. Have a great trip.
k-b
Seattle, USA 04/20/04

Local train schedules
We have agreed to drop off an Italian car in San Remo, Italy and pick up a French car in Menton, France. How do I get a local train schedule between San Remo and Menton? Or is there a smarter way to make this money saving exchange?
Susan Billipp <email>
Houston, TX USA 04/20/04

HEATHROW TO GATWICK
DENA....THE cheapest way from Heathrow to Gatwick is by bus, but fastest way is by train. Try heathrowexpress.com. I have read that you must go through London to get to Gatwick by rail or by bus. However, there are limos which take you directly, but the cost is quite high unless you can get 4 passengers to share the expense. Do a search for "Heathrow transportation Gatwick."
RUDY
ST LOUIS, USA 04/20/04

WEATHER IN ITALY AND FRANCE
Michelle~~~~~~The weather depends on which part of Italy and France you will be in. If you are on the Riviera you will be warm because the sun shines a lot that time of year. It may rain lightly but not often. I always take a light plastic raincoat. However, if you will be in the Alps you will be cold that time of year. Take enough clothing to layer it so you can take it off when you warm up in the morning. Take slacks and a sweater.
MILDRED HAYNDLEY
SAN DIEGO, CA USA 04/20/04

RAILPASS OR POINT-TO-POINT TICKETS
Kelly: your questions....1) ..is pass worth it avoiding hassle of ticket lines? I have never waited in line for tickets in Italy. Many stations have vending machines which make it much faster. It depends on how much more passes cost. 2).. dollar may get weaker or stronger?....The dollar changes value so slowly that I don't consider it. You can trust the fares listed on railpass.com. The only time I bought a rail pass was the week my wife and I spent in Switzerland. I bought the Swisspass because we planned to ride the train every day and when I compared the cost of point-to-point tickets vs the cost of the pass, I found it cheaper to buy the pass. But you have to do the computation to be sure.
Rudy S
TEMPLE, TX USA 04/20/04

Flying from Heathrow at 6:30am
Our return flight from London Heathrow by lufthansa is scheduled 6:30am, I know it's possible to check in at Paddington Station, but the first heathrow express is at 5:10 am. Has somebody been in the same case, and have no problem boarding their plane on time? Or do we have to book the last night at a near airport hotel to be on time to check in?
Rosana <email>
Houston, TX USA 04/20/04

Voucher and Ticket for British Airlines
How do I get a response from British Airlines regarding the status of a voucher sent in for a ticket that was not issued? I need to know the value and what has happened. My calls, emails, and a registered letter got no responses. Thank you.
Mary Anne Vitek <email>
Greenfield, WI USA 04/20/04

Speed limits
In most European countries, speed limits are generally not posted, since the countries make use of "general speed limits", which means that a national set of default speed limits applies to built-up areas, rural highways and motorways (dual carriageway) respectively. These limits always apply except when other limits are posted. Entrance and exits of built-up areas and motorways are always posted, to let you know which zone you are entering.
chrismo
04/19/04

PRAGUE AND BUDAPEST
Silvia: I have driven from Vienna to Prague to Budapest without incident. Be sure to buy a good highway map for each country over there...not here. Pay close attention to the highway directional signs. They are not always clear and I missed a couple at highway number changes which put me on the wrong road. Watch your speed because when you go through small towns the limit is not always posted. The natives tell you that is because everyone knows it. One advantage is that when you are lost you can always stop at a service station and usually find someone who speaks English and who can give directions. I always use ATM machines and I found them in some service stations which makes it easy to exchange currency as soon as you enter another country....and at any hour...you don't have to wait for a bank to open. Hungary and Czech Republic don't have Euros.
RANDY T
WACO, TX USA 04/19/04

Car rental
Ron ~ return your car in St. Albans.

Oh USA 04/19/04

Italy Cruise shore excursion alternatives
Taking a cruise (May 05) that docks in Liverno, Naples and a port about an hour and 1/2 from Rome. Would rather not take cruiseline tours but need driver and tour to Rome; Amalfi coast and Pompei; and Pisa and/or Florence. Any suggestions for a group of 4 to 8 adults?
D Marcella <email>
Rochester Hills, MI USA 04/19/04

Senior Brit Rail Discounts
Can seniors save $ by "registering" as such before buying Brit Rail tickets? This was indicated last year by a ticketing agent. How do I "register"?
John Davis <email>
seattle, WA USA 04/19/04

Prague and Budapest
We will be there in June and would appreciate any good hotel suggestions. We are getting there by Car and comments regarding driving there from Vienna is also appreciated. Many Thanks Silvia
Silvia <email>
Edmonton, AB Canada 04/19/04

Siblings traveling to Europe- one adult & one minor
My 20 year-old son and 16 year-old daughter are going to Europe this summer. Are there any special considerations or concerns they need to be aware of — especially since she is a minor? I'd like to find out if they might run into problems at hotels, hostels, B&Bs, etc. I will provide my son with legal papers giving him temporary guardianship of her. (My daughter has been to Europe several times with me. My son traveled to Thailand alone and was hosted by friends.) Thanks!
Vicki <email>
Austin, TX USA 04/19/04

Need advice about impending airline strikes
I just checked the seek italy website and found out that my flight from Paris to Rome is scheduled during a planned Alitalia strike (i am flying alitalia to rome). Has anyone encountered a situation like this? My main carrier (American) has no info on the strike and will not change my ticket (unless I want to pay $200) but if the strike happens, my hotel will charge me because I would not be giving them 48 hours notice of cancellation. Any advice would be GREATLY appreciated.
Connie Sokolowski <email>
Plantation, FL USA 04/19/04

Restorations in Italy May — June
I am traveling to Italy soon and would like to know if any of the major monuments are undergoing restoration? I hear the Milan Cathedral is, plus Michelangelo's Moses. Any others?
D.W. <email>
Denver, CO USA 04/19/04

First time travel to Europe
Traveling(2weeks)to Europe for the first time in July;flying into London for 4 days, would like to do an overnite tour to Paris and then to Munich for 3 days and then either to Rome or Denmark for remainder.Site seeing suggestions for Munich,also recommendations for how to travel while in Munich.Suggestions for tours to Paris to and from London. There will be 2 adults and our college aged son. Also, son is staying in Oslo additional month,,suggestions for hostels?
Sharon <email>
Longwood, FL USA 04/19/04

Rail Pass or Point to Point Tickets?
Will be traveling around France and (mainly) Italy in late May on a tight budget. A youth rail pass will cost us $19 USD more than point to point tickets, according to railpass.com. Is buying the railpass: 1.worth it in avoiding the hassle of ticket lines? 2. a good/bad idea since the dollar may get weaker/stronger? We would but the railpass in the US, but point to point tickets in Europe with euros. Thank you in advance!
Kelly <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA 04/19/04

Weather in Italy & France
I am going to be in France & Italy May 23-June 10. I want to know what to expect w/ WEATHER. I tend to be more cold than hot, but I would like a better idea of what to expect.... HELP!!
Michelle <email>
Sacramento, CA USA 04/19/04

Heathrow to Gatwick
I need to know the cheapest way to get for Heathrow to Gatwick...
Dena <email>
Dallas, TX USA 04/19/04

Convenient Rental Car Return north side of London
After a driving trip through Britain, we want to return our rental car someplace convenient outside London, preferably on the north side, and take public transportation into the city. Any suggestions?
Ron Haas <email>
DeWitt, MI USA 04/19/04

I'm going to be relying heavily on the internet while in Europe this summer. A lot of hostels include state that they have internet access, but are they talking about access points or computer terminals. I'm wondering if I have to take a computer with me. Thanks in advance, Kathy
Kathy <email>
WA USA 04/19/04

Re: Health Question
It's getting easier everyday for non-smokers in Italy. Almost all of the restaurants in the area where we live have seperate non-smoking and smoking sections and a lot of their non-smoking sections are larger than their smoking section and are in different rooms. Smaller cafes and bars are sometimes too small to divide the two but we will find those occasionally that don't allow smoking at all.
Douglas <email>
Italy 04/19/04

Paris-Cinque Terre travel
I am trying to organize our honeymoon for the end of Sept thru Oct 2004. About 3 weeks in length. I want to include Paris and Cinque Terre. What is the best way to get to Cinque Terre from Paris? Train? of fly to Milan and take the train? Thanks! any suggestions about places to go that would include either area would be appreciated!
Dana <email>
seattle, wa USA 04/19/04

Train station near A1 to commute into Rome from?
We will be staying just south of Salerno and want to "do Rome in a Day". We have a hire car and would like to drive somewhere near Rome and then take the train into town. does anybody know a suitable metro(?) stop with a safe parking lot on the Naples side of the A1 ?
Ian Barraclough <email>
Houston, TX USA 04/19/04

Tour Agent
Need a tour agent in Paris to cover day trips Nevers, Chartres, Lisieux and a few others
Dom D. <email>
Richmond,, VA USA 04/18/04

GIANNI FRANZI IN VERNAZZA
Heather... My wife and I spent a week in Vernazza last year. Based on my experience in this unique little village, you can expect anything! It just grew like Topsy and nothing conforms to anything we are accustomed to. If you don't get answers to your questions from other readers of this column , my suggestion is not to book a room in advance without seeing it. I looked at 5 apartments before I rented ours. If you want a private bathroom, you might have to take an apartment. You may have difficulty renting for only 2 nights depending on what month you go.. I don't think you will have trouble finding a room to meet your needs, but you should plan extra time to inspect rooms. Hope his helps.
CARLOS Z
DALLAS, TX USA 04/18/04

TRAVEL OVER CHRISTMAS
Dina; I was in southern Italy the whole month of December a few years ago and never felt cold. The sun shone every day. We sailed from Naples to Oran, Algeria and back and had almost perfect weather. Southern Italy and Sicily stay warm during the winter because of the Mediterranean Sea. When Camille below says it was freezing, I can believe her because she was in NORTHERN ITALY. The climate where you will be is quite different. We were also in Sicily and never wore a jacket there either. That doesn't guarantee perfect weather when you are there, but I would take only a light jacket in case you need it. Most travelers take a plastic raincoat in case it rains, but even when it does, in southern Italy, it doesn't rain hard and it never lasts long.
Butch Wydalle
Dallas, TX USA 04/18/04

Fiumicino hotel suggestions?
Has anyone stayed at the Riviera Hotel in Fiumoncino, Italy? I booked it through venerve.com, which has some bad reviews at other sites, so I'm worried. I would welcome any ideas for a clean quad hotel for our last night in Italy. We are dropping our car at Leonardo airport at night and flying out early, so don't want to go back into Roma. Thanks for any ideas!
Ann Marie <email>
Seattle, WA USA 04/18/04

Inexpensive eats in Venice
Basically, if it's where you long to sit,if its touristy,if it's under a sun canopy...it's expensive.Start on the fruit market end of the Rialto bridge and walk along the Fondamento del Vin past the canal-side open air restaurants then turn into the Calle del Cinque and walk about hundred yards. It's a bit gloomy compared with the canal side but there used to be a basic inexpensive restaurant which was popular with the locals.
Graham <email>
Port Talbot, Wales 04/18/04

Ireland
As a side trip in Ireland and probably not enough time to see both places, would it be better to visit the Aran Islands or Skellig Michael? I know very little about Skellig Michael except it apparently has a lot of wildlife — Puffins, etc.
Susan <email>
Atl, USA 04/18/04

Naples in September
Traveling to Naples Italy in September. Any good advice on places to stay. We will be spending the days sightseeing the surrounding areas.
Pat <email>
Tucson, az USA 04/18/04

Re: Ignorant Train Woes!
Aaron, you might want to look into flights to get to Carcassone. Obviously you probably won't be able to fly directly from Cinque Terra to Carcassone, but you may find it easier and cheaper to find a flight on a discount carrier from a bigger Italian city to a French city in the area, such as Toulouse. As far as trains, I know there is a night train from Nice to Toulouse. I just did the Cinque Terra-Nice route. It did include changing trains several times, annoyingly, but I didn't have any problems with connections, usually the train I needed to get on was right by the one I just got off, and I just need to follow the crowd to the connection. Carcassone is a magical place, so I'd say go there if you can!
Camille <email>
Avignon, France 04/18/04

Travel over Christmas
My question is regarding Southern Italy, specifically we want to go to Sardinia, Sicily and Calabria around Christmas time. Can any fun at all be had at that time of year, or is the weather abysmal? We just returned from our first time in Italy, and just fell in love with it. Cinque Terre (Riomaggiore), Milan, Venice, Florence and Rome. Traveled mostly by train, a little bit of Tuscanny by car. Any advice about southern Italy around Christmas?
Dina McDermott <email>
Seattle , WA USA 04/18/04

Spain bus travel?
This is kind of last minute, but I'm going to be spending a week and a half in Spain starting Wednesday. I've heard from a lot of people that bus travel is often a cheaper and sometimes even quicker option than train travel in Spain (RS even compares the prices on his railpass page), but I can't seem to find much information about bus routes and prices, so I'm having a hard time figuring out if my itinerary would be better by train or bus. Does anyone know any websites where I can get concrete info on bus routes and prices in Spain? The tourist office pages I've looked at just give the name and telephone numbers of the bus stations in each town.
Camille <email>
Avignon, France 04/18/04

Christmas in Italy
I've travelled in Italy at Christmas time — it may make the difference that it was the week before Christmas, not the week after, I don't know. We flew back home Christmas eve. I flew in through Milan and went to Florence and Venice. It was absolutely incredible, no lines at all at any of the museums or monuments, every other time I have been to Italy it has supposedly been low season, but December was the only time I ever went and was surrounded by locals instead of mobs of tourists. It was sunny but FREEZING, and a wonderful experience, we felt like we were the only tourists there, and the towns were all decorated beautifully for Christmas. We got very cheap prices at hotels when we asked for the low season discount (including a gigantic triple in Venice with a big beautiful bathroom with marble floors, etc for about 40 dollars a night!). This was a very last minute trip (my friend and I decided we were going the week before), but everything worked out great, and besides the temperature, the unique experience we had at that time of year probably made it my best time ever spent in Italy.
Camille <email>
Avignon, France 04/18/04

Budget flights
I have booked two flights with Germanwings from Germany to Italy and back. Has anybody had any experience with this airline. I am concerned that they might cancel our flights at the last minute and we'll be left stranded.
Lissette <email>
Sanibel, FL USA 04/18/04

My Italy trip — goods and bads
Italy trip summary: Hotel Aberdeen in Rome, Ca' Del Dose in Venice, and B&B La Romea in Lucca are all worthy of 5 stars for the great rooms we had and service was top notch. Anna at Ca Del Dose was so perky and nice all the time. She must have hugged us a million times! AVOID Hotel Speronari in Milan (see my posting under Scams) Delta airlines was ok, but not as good as our Lufthansa flight last september. Avoid the exit rows or be stuffed the entire flight. Alamo car rental from Mestre train station was dynamite! Great service and advice! Odyssee tours in Rome was also a good experience. The Papal audience is a MUST if you are catholic. Ricks books were tremendous! The only books we had along that were worth carrying. Italy is great, the people are beautiful and warm. The country is so breathtaking. The only rude folks were at Hotel Speronari in Milan and most everyone in Siena. Oh well. Enjoy Italy. I hope my comments help!
Dave R <email>
Lincoln, CA USA 04/18/04

water sandals
Lucy from Houston — try Teva — they've expanded their stock to include waterproof leather "city" sandals that look great with skirts as well as shorts. I don't think they were actually intended as water sandals, but my 13-year-old and I wore them all over Europe for 10 weeks last summer — rain, beach, canoeing, hiking in the Alps, wading in Lake Geneva — and they still looked nice the last week, in Paris. I'm still wearing mine (she outgrew hers). Try the fisherman style if you can find it, since it has more straps to offer more stability scrambling over rocks.
Tricia
Tallahassee, FL USA 04/18/04

Breastfeeding Around the World
jj-I grew up "overseas" where breastfeeding was considered natural(!) I suspect that possibly the only country in the world where you might have problems would be in the US! (Such as Disneyland) I would assume that you would be as discreet as your little one would allow. Also, nursing during take-off and landing is an excellent way to avoid ear problems and also is so calming. Definitely the easiest way to travel with a little one or toddler!
Darcy <email>
Lewiston, ID USA 04/18/04

Gianni Franzi in Vernazza
Gianni Franzi — We are looking to stay here for 2 nights when we are in Vernazza. I was wondering if anyone has stayed here and could answer a couple of questions. 1. Do any of the double rooms with the small balcony (like in Rick Steve's videos)have a private bathroom? 2. If not, how many rooms share the bathroom? 3. Do any of double rooms with private bath have a balcony? I would prefer to have a private bath... but would love a view aswell. Thanks in advance!
Heather
Vancouver, BC, Canada 04/18/04

Breastfeeding in Switzerland & Italy
I will be traveling with a 3 month old baby and plan to breastfeed. How much is breastfeeding tolerated in Switzerland and in Italy? Will I be banished to bathrooms (yuck) and back rooms or is it acceptable to discreetly breastfeed in public? Any help would be much appreciated! Thanks
jj <email>
Portland, OR USA 04/17/04

IRELAND TIPS REQUESTED FOR CAR
IRELAND TIPS REQUESTED FOR CAR Leslie. I can recommend Sixt very highly. It is a German company. I rented a car from kemwel.com (Kemwel is a British wholesaler, phone 800 -576-1590) to drive from Frankfurt into E Europe because most agencies won't let you drive into E Europe. As I took the car I read the contract and found that it stated that I could NOT take the car into Austria and Poland. I told the desk clerk that my confirmation stated clearly that the car could be driven into those countries. When he read my confirmation he phoned the garage and they brought me a brand new Audi (which was a free upgrade) with all the bells and whistles (including A/C) plus a diesel engine which saved me lots of money because they get better mileage and diesel also costs less per litre. Everyone was very helpful and when I turned in the car I asked the manager if he would buy the steering wheel lock I had purchased in Poland at the price I had paid for it and he did.
Butch Wydalle
USA 04/17/04

Ireland tips requested — Car....
I am looking for guidance for car rental in Ireland, I have been shopping on line for the best rental deal...Irish Car Rentals has a great offer, but I never heard of SIXT car rental. Looking for testimonials. Also, any tips for families with kids between 11-16 would be great.
Leslie Ellis-Lang <email>
New Port Richey, FL USA 04/17/04

Child car seats?
We're thinking of renting a car during our upcoming Europe trip. One question: are child car seats commonly available? There seems to be contradictory information on this site. Most of our travel experience is in Asia, and there they think that Americans are silly with their insistence on car seats (and taxi drivers would never have the patience to wait for you to install one).
Mike <email>
Kenmore, WA USA 04/17/04

KRAKOW AND BUDAPEST
Judith.....if you have limited travel experience, you are wise to ask other women for advice...Taking the night train anywhere alone is not recommended by me unless you can find another woman traveling alone going where you are going to team with. Nowadays you can often fly cheaper and faster by air. Try these web pages... some fly into Krakow and Budapest, but you might find some. Try www.easyjet.com, skyeurope.com, europebyair, bmibaby.com, skyscanner.com, applefares.com, germanwings.com, skyeurope.com, virgin-express, easyjet.com, hl-express.com. Rail passes, schedules and fares for Hungary try www. elvira.hu/elvira.dll. For Poland try www.polrail.com/prozklad. Raileurope.com offers rail passes in Hungary and Poland.
Charlenne M Drake
DALLAS, TX USA 04/17/04

LATIN QUARTER HOSTELS
Adruu: I found that when I used the address I gave in my previous post, it would not work. If you moit "france" at the end it will work. When the page comes up, click on Paris.
Milton Michael Mondroe
AUSTIN, TX USA 04/17/04

Paniclae Italy
Can anyone tell me anything about the area of Panicle or Paciano Italy?
Carol <email>
naples, fl USA 04/17/04

Krakow and Budapest — single woman
Iam traveling to Krakow and Budapest as a single 60 year old woman with limited European travel experience. Should I take the night train from Krakow to Budapest? any advice? any hotels to recommend in either city?
Judith Zaborowski <email>
New York, NY USA 04/17/04

Southwest England
Southern England is the best! Don't miss the town of Lyme Regis where you can walk out on the beach and find fossils. We enjoyed St. Michael's Mount and "Arthur's Castle" Tintagel (a bit further North, but we were able to see it on our way out of Cornwall). We purchased the British Heritage pass and used it to find many smaller castles and sites where we often were the tourists there. We rented 2 & 3 night stays through Rural Retreats and so were able to have a small cottage in a cute town for many of our stops. We also stayed near Penzance at Ennys (google it with ennys and cornwall) — a great bed and breafast, very peaceful, lovely grounds. You will very much enjoy your stay in the Southwest
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 04/17/04

Hotel Elysees Regencia — Paris
Has anyone stayed at the Hotel Elysees Regencia in Paris? Also, if I get there and it is horrible, would I be able to find alternate accommodation by walkin in August?
Sherry Stein <email>
Toronto, Ontario Canada 04/16/04

ZURICH TO NORMANDY
ZURICH TO NORMANDY: I suggest you access..http://www.europrail.net/maps/eurail.pdf..It's a pdf map of the European rail network.It looks as if you will have to go to Paris and then to wherever in Normandy.
Graham <email>
Port Talbot, Wales 04/16/04

LATIN QUARTER HOSTELS
Adruu: I stumbled onto a great page for hostels...the most informative I have ever seen. Maybe it will help you in finding a hostel in Paris. Try http://www.cheap-hostels-in.com/france.htm. Looks like 7 pages of various facilities. Several mention the Latin Quarter...Try Tonic Hotel, Kyraid Hostel, Peace and Love Hostel, Hotel des Ecoles, Hotel de France, and Latin Quarter Hostel. There may be others.
Milton Michael Mondroe
Austin, TX USA 04/16/04

Tuscany small towns
We will spend two weeks in Italy in May starting in Rome for three days and then on to Cinque Terre and on to Florence by train also and will rent a car there. We have every night's lodging booked but one night — we do not usually travel this way but this time we are doing this. We will stay in Fl, Sienna, Asissi — we will have to return to Rome eventually to get our flight to London. Does anyone have a suggestion as to where to stay in Tuscany that will be quiet, charming, and non-touristy? Cortona, San Gimignano, Greve? We plan to day trip a lot of the smaller towns but looking for that one special night. Many Agriturisimos seem to prefer more than just one night's stay. Thanks so much for any advice!
Susan <email>
Atl, USA 04/16/04

rent a car?
We will be spending a month in Europe in June.. if we use the train, should we still rent a car (ahead of time) in Venice, for say a week, to explore the northern part of Italy small towns etc or would the trains be adequate and if we rented a car in Europe, how much more is it than prearranging in the US ahead
Doug De La Fontaine <email>
Honolulu, HI USA 04/16/04

Flying in Italy
Has any one had any experience with AlpiEagles airlines within Italy?
Dirk <email>
Denver, CO USA 04/16/04

Southern England
My son & I will be going back to England sometime in June. We rent a car & this time would like to visit south of London, eg Cornwall, Devon, Dorset etc areas. We're particularly fond of old castles, interesting old towns, pubs etc. Does anyone have any suggestions re: what to see & particularly of any B&B's you may have used. (I might add that I'm in my 70's & long hikes is not one of the things on the itinerary.) Thanks!
Eleanor <email>
Sarasota, FL USA 04/16/04

Zurich to Normandy
What is the best way to get from Zurich to Normandy for a short trip?

USA 04/16/04

Answer to Health Question
David — Being from California, we are very spoiled here when to comes to smoking. Making the adjustment in Europe (or elsewhere) is hard especially when people are literally smoking EVERYWHERE! I'll never forget my first trip to Venice and seeing Italians (and others I am sure) throwing their butts in the Grand Canal! Yikes. Anyway, if you are going, just remember to be patient with the situation — there is nothing you can do to change it!
Jill <email>
Oakland, CA USA 04/16/04

Santa Margheria, Italy, accommodations
We are looking for quality accommodations with view in Santa Margherita in October. Also any logistics advice for traveling Santa Margherita to Rome?
margie robinson <email>
atlanta, ga USA 04/16/04

Inexpensive eats in Venice
Our family is traveling to Venice this summer and all I read is that it's very expensive to eat in this city. We are looking for some good inexpensive places to eat. We are staying near the Rialto Bridge.
Brian
Sacramento, Ca USA 04/16/04

Booking ahead
Sorry, I should have mentioned (in regards to whether or not to book accomodations ahead) that we were a family of 4 traveling Great Britain. It was harder to find 2 rooms at one place — some of the B & B's only rent 2 or 3 rooms max. When just my husband & I travel we do so off season and are more comfortable with winging it. Even with teens it is not fun dragging them around from place to place to see if there is "room at the inn"!
Karen <email>
Atlanta, ga USA 04/16/04

Correction to below, I meant 256mb, not k.
Zaida
CA USA 04/15/04

Digital Cameras
Barbara — Save the stress! I find it easier to bring enough memory rather than hunt around for a shop where they 1) speak English enough to help me download my information and 2) have the equipment to do it. Further, memory cards are much smaller to carry around than CD's. My 256k card will store close to 300 pictures at its highest setting (4 megapixels) and will store even more at lower settings. Depending how long your trip is, one to three 256k cards should be plenty. Costco has great deals on cards. If you don't already use rechargeable batteries, invest in them and a charger. Bring them overseas and just charge your camera when needed (use a transformer, of course). Keep a spare battery on hand and don't use the viewfiender (the screen) to take regular pictures. Kills your battery life. Don't buy batteries in Europe unless you absolutely have to. Look at paying 2 to 3 times the price in the US.
Zaida <email>
CA USA 04/15/04

Who can tell me about using a digital camera in Italy? I understand that I can take my Sony memory stick into a photo shop and have them download my pictures on disk, therefore allowing me to use the stick over and over. What about charging my camera? Give me some advice.
Barbara <email>
Fort Worth, TX USA 04/15/04

B&B without reservation
Several summers ago, we traveled Great Britain (not Ireland) for six weeks (June — Mid July). The only reservations we had were in Bath and Edinburgh. We'd just start looking about 4:00 for places that looked like fun. It worked great and we didn't have to be on a schedule. As indicated before, we ask to see the room before committing. Rick says "sleep, then pay." Most of the time that works, but if you check the room, bed, view, and smell for heavy smoke, and the price is right, I don't always worry about it for a one night stay.
Karen <email>
CO USA 04/15/04

Wedding outfit — travel light
Linda: The best way to travel Europe is with an ATM and use cash for transactions. We always take a credit card (Visa), too, in case there's a problem with ATM or near the end of the trip when you don't want to get extra cash. Europe will be hot in August. We have always been back before August, but have heard that some places are closed due to Europeans on holiday (often at the beach), so you might want to make some reservations or at least look into availability. Regarding clothes, I always take a long black skirt (always suitable for a wedding) that is almost wrinkle free (many polyester knits are light and easy to pack). You'll probably need a pair of shoes just for the wedding, since they are rarely ok for much walking. We see lots of Europeans in heels and walking at a fast clip, but my feet won't handle that. Just pack your slip, hose, camisole, etc. in your shoes, both to keep the shape and maximise space. A shell and simple, light weight, black blazer or jacket, you have an outfit for many occasions and possible cool evenings. I usually only take 2 pr slacks and 4-5 tops. It's usually possible to wash out underwear, socks and even light weight tops and slacks if you have a day or so to dry in a closet space — don't leave them hanging around the room during the day. I'm sure you can travel lighter than I do, but I manage it in one carry-one backpack.
Karen <email>
CO USA 04/15/04

Health Question
as a non-smoker i'm wondering is europe one big ash tray...all smokey and smoldering?. (now i really dont care if people smoke.) i'm curious if non-smokers have a tough time of it ???
david
o'side, ca USA 04/15/04

Prague bed in May
We need Prague Accommadations. My wife and I will travel to Prague in mid-May and will stay 4-6 days. We would like to have a double bed with private toilet for under $50.00USD. We need a place that is accessable from the airport and also the city center by public transportation. We are in our 50s, in good health and young at heart. All we need is a place that is clean, safe and accessable, we appreciate your help and thank you in advance.
Steve <email>
Salt Lake City, Ut USA 04/15/04

Booking ahead
Regarding whether to book B & B's ahead of time — if you are traveling in the summer I think it is best to book ahead. I prefer a place with a nice atmosphere and not just a clean room so I enjoy researching special places on line several months ahead of time. Even small B & B's are now online and I have had very good experiences with anything I have booked with a website. I left one night open in Wales and spent 1 1/2 hours looking for a place to stay. We ended up in a Holiday Inn, not nearly as quaint as the B & B's we had booked while at home. I would have rather spent the time looking at castles rather than looking for a place to stay.
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 04/15/04

Go Today package
Sue in Berkeley: Go-Today package: Since we were attracted to the good deal and since we'd stayed previously on Rue Cler and wanted a different arrondisment, we took the low price option (Hotel Bagtinolles, near Place de Clichy (1 mile from Sacre Coeur, but not in Montmartre) While we were a bit out of the center of Paris, several times we walked to the Seine (about 2 miles or so). The metro was great and close by, so it was easy to walk one way and take the metro back, or the other way around.
Karen <email>
CO USA 04/15/04

Questions re/ packing ,lodging/Europe
Are all credit cards equally well accepted in Europe?Or is there a "best one"? Is it wise to book all accomodations including hostels from USA prior to trip(early August)? Or is it hard to find lodging each day? and last What are typical temperatures for Europe last week of July through 3rd week of August? Our plan is to see as much as possible via railpass. First week will be spent in Koeln Germany.oops, one more? any good suggestions how to travel light yet include appropriate clothes for a wedding followed by dinner(for mom of the bride)? Shoes are the biggest problem.
Linda <email>
Lake Stevens, WA USA 04/15/04

Venice hotels
Hi — I am trying to make a decision about a hotel in Venice. Has anyone ever stayed at either the Hotel Zecchini or Hotel Atlantide? I can't find reviews anywhere...help! I need to make a decision by this Saturday 4/17. Thanks for any help!
Jill <email>
Oakland, CA USA 04/15/04

B&B RESERVATIONS AHEAD OF TIME
DAJ; Since I have stayed in B&Bs all over the world (Over 50 countries) I have learned not to reserve a room without seeing it. Therefore you will benefit by finding the place and ask to see the room. There is nothing wrong with saying you want to look further if it doesn't meet your needs. In England and Ireland they are accustomed to that. If you are concerned about finding a room, start looking earlier in the afternoon. You can also go to the local Tourist Information Office in each town and ask for help. I have done that; often the host will come and pick you up at the railroad station if you don't have a car.
Diadema Collins
Columbus, OH USA 04/15/04

GOOD PLACE TO STAY
Carrie:What do you mean by cheap. Cheap means one thing to you and sonething else to another traveler. Give a price range....or 3-star hotel, B&B or hostel? Some guidance will help. Do you want a single or double room; will you have a car?
Alexandria W
St Louis, USA 04/15/04

B&B Reservations: Ahead of Time?
It's not clear to me whether we should reserve B&B's in Great Britain and Ireland ahead of time. Or, should we "wing it" and try to find something when we are there? We're travelling mid June through mid July. Thanks!
D.A.J. <email>
SF, CA USA 04/15/04

Orkney
Anyone been to the Orkney Islands? If so, did you travel by train? Is it worth the trip? (Thinking of seeing Skara Brae.)
Debby <email>
Santa Cruz, CA USA 04/15/04

Water Sandal
The Chacos sandals that I wore last summer for everything, including hiking in the Alps, and with socks when it was cold/wet, were perfect! And so comfortable!! And I think they even look good enough to wear with a skirt.
Hille <email>
Neenah, WI USA 04/15/04

Tea in London
Nini, and all others planning high tea in London: we had the same dilemma when planning a trip 2 summers ago. Based on Rick's and some local's recommendations we opted for the Savoy. . . it was lovely. All hats and dressy suits and very proper. (I think you do have to dress up.) The fare was delicious and they brought out more sandwiches, tea, and cakes if you requested. We took our young teenage son and daughter and they still list it as one of their special times in London. After that, we made a point of taking tea every where we went in England. It was never as fancy as the Savoy experience but always special, and I have never tasted so many different and delicious scone recipes. Have fun!
Lise <email>
Orlando, FL USA 04/15/04

Traveling with an 8 month old
Rich, It would be a good idea to buy a cheap $20 umbrella stroller that folds up for your baby. If you don't want to bring it home just leave at you last hostel for someone else and you are not out a lot of money. Also, I would not depend on cribs being available everywhere you stay.
T. L.
TX USA 04/15/04

Fantasie di Trastevere Restaurant
I would like to know if anyone has visited the "Fantasie di Trastevere" dinner theater in Rome. Is it better to book through Green Line Tours or on your own? Is it way too touristy or is it worth the $115.00?
Kim Dixon <email>
STOCKTON, CA USA 04/15/04

TRAVELING WITH 8 MONTH OLD
Wondering if we need to bring one of those pack and play for him to sleep in, or do the hotels usually provide cribs..also any other suggestions to easing travel with a 8 month old in Switzerland
Rich
Wakefield, RI USA 04/15/04

Good Place to Stay
I was wondering what is good and cheap place to stay in paris, munich, london, and salsburg?
Carrie
St. Louis, Mo USA 04/15/04

London B&B's
Need opinions from anyone who has stayed at the following London B&B's: Westpoint Hotel, Barry House Hotel and Marble Arch Inn, all near Hyde Park; Dover Hotel in Voctria, and the Worcester House Hotle in Wimbledon.
Bob Buck <email>
Knoxville, tn USA 04/15/04

Bali Indonesia
I am thinking about visiting Bali. Anybody out there have any experience in visiting Bali recently and am also looking for good rates on lodging at a non US small hotel with a/c.I am hoping that my dollar will go father than in Europe. Can it be done on less than $100 per day? Thanks
J Straw <email>
Ca USA 04/15/04

Apartment Rental in Venice
Has anyone used or heard of a company called "Flats in Venice"? I am a little nervous because I can't find any reviews or information other than their own website.
Camille <email>
Denver, CO USA 04/15/04

RAIL TRAVEL..ZURICH TO MILAN
Charles.....go to these pages for informaton: http://www.discountrailpasses.com/premiertrains and http://raileurope.lycos.com/us/rail/specialty/cisalpino. You might also try railpass.com and phone them at 800 722 7151.
a m handler
waco, tx USA 04/15/04

Athens/Prague Accomodations
I need tips on clean & inexpensive accomodations in Athens and Prague.
John Hughson <email>
Angwin, CA USA 04/14/04

Italy
Italy questions. Taking train from Zurich to Milan. Does it stop at Lake Cumo? After Cumo, what is the best way to get to Sienna? Thank U. CC
Charles <email>
Corvallis, OR USA 04/14/04

Water Sandals
Rainbow Sandels are the best answer! I wear them everywhere. They were the only pair of shoes that I took through a 2 week backpacking trip through germany.
Some Kid
USA 04/14/04

LATIN QUARTER OR MARAIS HOSTELS
LATIN QUARTER OR MARAIS HOSTELS ADRUU; I belong to Hosteling International and checked my international directory. Try the Armstrong Hostel at: http://www.hostels.com/en/availability.php/HostelNumber.2860http://www.hostels.com/en/availability.php/HostelNumber.2860. You will find travelers ratings and room rates see "hostel rating info" and pictures. The nearest metro station is "Porte de Montreuil" on line number 9. It's a two minutes walk to the Hotel Armstrong: just go up the Boulevard Davout on the left-hand pavement and you will find the hotel on the first road on your left. Transport to the hotel from the airports: Taxis from either of the Paris airports cost about 40 Euros: depending on the traffic this should take you approximately 40 minutes and is the quickest way to get to the hotel. Also see Young and Happy Hostel at: http://www.youngandhappy.fr/english/location.htm.
Milton Michael Mondroe
Austin, TX USA 04/14/04

Boat Rental In Antibes and Juan les Pins
I am traveling to the Antibes and Juan les Pins area of the French Riviera. I would like to rent a motor boat for a day while I am there. I am having trouble finding a place that does boat rental though. Does anyone have any experience in this?
James <email>
Orlando, Fl USA 04/14/04

Water Sandals
Lucy, I don't know if you're going to find a water sandal that can also handle hiking that doesn't look "sporty". You might try landsend.com. They have both a sandal and a mesh tennis shoe that are supposed to be good for both water and land (I think they call them "sea to shore"). Both come in black and are just under $30. Good luck!
Leslie
CA USA 04/14/04

Spain and Portugal
We are Going to Portugal and Spain from Lisbon south to Salema through Algrave region to just before Cosa Del Sol and then to Seville, Rhonda back through Evora and to Lisbon. Any suggestions of great places to stay, eat or must sees will be greatly appreciated. We will be going with our 2 adult offspring so suggestions for accomodations will be appreciated also. Would love suggestions on places on the beach to go...we will go to Salema ....but any other quiet beach areas ????? Thanks Bernie Dunn dunnbv@hotmail.com
Bernice Dunn <email>
Schenectady , NY USA 04/14/04

Seeking: water sandals
Can anyone please recommend inexpensive water sandals (sandals that can be worn in water and land) that don't look very sporty. This will be for a 13 year old girl who will be traveling w/ other students to Europe. They will be sight seeing, going to beaches and maybe light hiking on rocky terrain. She already has a walking shoe (not fit for hiking) and was hoping for a water sandal what would take care of all of her other sportier activities and also look good w/ her casual everyday clothes. A solid black is our preference. Thanks in advance. Lucy
Lucy
Houston, TX USA 04/14/04

FRENCH TRAIN TRAVEL
David: The solution is easy....avoid paying that extra charge....buy your ticket at the station before you board your train...that is not complicated. I have ridden trains through Europe and even in Russia and Scandinavia and never booked in advance. I prefer not being locked into a specific date and time....I like the flexibility of playing it by ear. Try some other railroad web pages:dertravel.com, railpass.com/ticket, alleuroperail.com, railtrains.com
DAVE HEMOLINGIEU
NEW BRITON, CON USA 04/14/04

Night trains
FOR ASHLEE: Perhaps the following may help...http://www.wars.pl/o_firmie/default_eng.htm
Graham <email>
Port Talbot, Wales,UK 04/14/04

French Train Travel
What is the deal with SNCF/French National Railways? I can book German trains online from the US but SNCF has you go through Rail Europe which appears to charge a whole lot more. Has anyone dealt with this issue/ have a solution?
David <email>
Decatur, GA USA 04/14/04

To Rosana
I have a friend who has done this with airline tickets — bought roundtrip and only used one way — sometimes it is cheaper than buying one way. Do not let anyone tell you that you have to us the return rail pass ticket who will ever know or care for that matter.
Tina
tx USA 04/14/04

Birmingham or Coventry
I have a few days available during my trip to England this May where I would like to see Warwick Castle, Stratford-upon-Avon, & maybe the Cadbury factory. Should I stay in Birmingham or Coventry? Anyone have suggestions for good hotels (within walking distance of the train station). Anyone know about any tour companies in that area, or is it easy to get to on my own without a car? Also, I have Rick's Best of Europe book. Does the Best of Great Britton go into more detail in this area? Should I buy it as well? Thanks for any input!
Angela <email>
Beaverton, OR USA 04/14/04

Christmas in Italy
I've been reading all the comments posted on the Christmas in Europe page. Although we normally prefer off-season travel, I'd LOVE to spend this holiday season in Italy, a place we've never visited. However...I keep finding information stating that Christmas is high season (expensive and crowded) and the weather is cold and miserable. If you've been to Venice, Florence or Rome at Christmastime, how was it? Which city would be the least expensive for a family of four on a tight budget? Any helpul hints would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Terry <email>
Peru, IN USA 04/14/04

EUROSTAR R/T vs. one-way
Are you using any kind of rail pass — Britrail, Eurail, france rail pass, etc.? If you are using one valid in France OR England, you can purchase one way passholder ticket for Eurostar for only $75.00.
R.K.
CA USA 04/14/04

Frence rail baggage restrictions
France has placed baggage size restrictions on their railroads. What are the size limits allowed as carry-ons?
Phil <email>
Castro Valley, CA USA 04/14/04

Discounted Airline Fares forThis Summer
Several earlier postings have asked questions about purchasing discounted airline tickets and the timing. A Wall Street Journal article today (April 14,pg D1) is suggesting that discounted airlines fares for this summer will be very limited. Since the weak dollar is filling the airplanes with Europeans coming to the US, the airlines have less need to use discounted fares to fill their planes. Anyone considering European travel needs to read the article.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA 04/14/04

Latin Quartier or Marais Hostels
Can anyone recommend a nice hostel in the Latin Quartier or Marais? I believe Montparnasse is South of LQ right? Most websites I've been looking at seem to generate results in Montmarte...
adruu <email>
houston, tx USA 04/14/04

German Train Station Lockers
The station in Hamburg has different sized lockers that cost different amounts. A couple years ago, a large locker was 2 Euro and a smaller one 1 Euro. I managed to get my backpack (bit larger than daypack size) into a small locer.
caroline
seattle, WA USA 04/14/04

To Rosana
DO IT. You are paying for the ticket. You just missed the return. OOOHHHPPPSSS. Save the money and enjoy your vacation.
Money Talks
Any City, USA 04/14/04

R/T or single trip Eurostar?
We're going to travel from Paris to London by Eurostar, and return home from there, but if I buy single trip it costs at least $150, if I buy R/T leisure one day it costs $97. So I wonder if it is really some problem if I "forget" to take the return trip. I asked to railpass site, and they told me I MUST ride the return. But I remember Rick Steves in some of his books wrote about not taking the return. What should I do?
Rosana <email>
Houston, TX USA 04/14/04

Poland Car Rental
Last September we had the same dilemma of renting a car that could be driven into Poland. We did a two-week driving trip through Germany and Austria, but wanted to go across the border of Poland for just a few hours to see a World War II site. Almost every rental agency we tried did not allow taking the car into Poland. We finally landed on DriveTravel.com, a website based in Australia. For an extra 48 Euros (I think) they provided an excellent rental car through Avis at Frankfurt airport. Even with the surcharge, their rental rate was very competitive with every other rate we found. Try them, as they turned out to be excellent. Ensure they issue you a paper with authority to enter Poland. Although the border guards never asked for it, having it in our hands gave us peace of mind. Good luck.
Ron Haas <email>
DeWitt, MI USA 04/14/04

Scotland in 9 days
Tufufingers: If you don't find a tour company with a guided bus tour to the places you want to see, rent a car. I have driven in Scotland and find it challenging, but not impossible. Whether you take the train or drive, your itinerary should include : Loch Ness, Inverness, and Isle of Skye. Wherever you spend the night, seek out a B&B; I have found them the best way to travel. If you go to the Tourist Information Office in the railroad station you can find one easily. You get to see how the Scots live and it is more comfortable than a hotel, plus it is usually less expensive. The hosts can give you priceless advice on points of interest in the area and other travel tips.
MARY WHITE
NEW YORK CITY, NY USA 04/14/04

GERMAN RAIL STATION LOCKERS
RK...I have found locker sizes vary in railroad stations. There may be standard sizes in some stations, but I haven't seen it. You just have to take what you find. I usually have to try to cram my bags into as few lockers as possible. Stations also have "Left Luggage" counters where you can leave any size bag, but I have found them costly. Try the lockers first and the counter as a last resort.
R N ERTWITDAR
WACO, TX USA 04/14/04

Poland Car Rental
PAT~~~~~~~~Since I have driven in Poland several times I don't agree that driving in Poland is risky....it is no different than any other Eastern European country. If you rent your car in Germany, you will find that generally renting in Frankfurt is cheaper than any other German city and I have found in the past that taxes are lower in Germany. Call the toll-free number listed at Kemwel.com to rent your car. However, consider the distance from your final destination before renting. Check the rail fares at railpass.com and click on the fares and schedules icon in the left column. Enter departure and arrival cities to get first and second class fares and schedules. You can also find rail information at alleuroperail.com, railtrains.com and raileurope.com.
Rudee W
Roanoke, Va USA 04/14/04

German Railstation Luggage Lockers
How big are the "small" and "large" luggage lockers at rail stations (specifically, in Germany)? What have you been able (or unable) to fit in one? Thanks.
R.K.
ca USA 04/13/04

Linda Manno in Pittsburg!
Your itenuary sounds exactly like mine except mine's in May. Let me know of any tips/info you uncover on your trip that would be helpful! Somehow I couldn't e-mail you through this site. Gladly appreciate it!
Rivy <email>
FL USA 04/13/04

FIRST TRIP TO EUROPE
Jissica...a lot will depend on what you like to see....there are a million sights to visit; so get on the web and do a word search for the city you want to visit such as "Frankfurt Attractions"....you will see pictures and descriptions on all the places you can afford financially to visit or for which you have time....there are castles, museums, towers, parks, cathedrals, abbeys, monasteries, convents, breweries, wineries and public buildings...go to your public library and browse the travel guides for others recommendations..you need to read all the guides you have time for...buy one or two to take with you....make a list of those places you want to see and then plan an itinerary for the number of days you can take...for a first timer I would recommend London, Paris, Zurich, Prague, Venice and Budapest....knowing how much money is the difficult part...I usually research travel expenses on the web and then plan $30 a day for food, $40 a day for rooms unless you want to stay in a hostel....which my wife and I do...that will cost $18 to $22 a night in a dorm including breakfast...if you want a private room it will cost more. ...you will get other advice from other travelers on this page.
R V HANOVER
LAS VEGAS, NV USA 04/13/04

TRAIN RESERVATIONS
Ashlee... I agree with Rick....I never make rail reservations...I just walk up and buy tickets .....try these pages; railpass.com/ticket, railtrains.com, alleuorperail.com, cit-tours.com, dertravel.com , budgeteuropetravel.com
J T LEVERICKE
TULSA, OK USA 04/13/04

Gelateria Della Palma, Roma
Where is the New York location of Gelateria Della Palma?
Cinzia Spatuzzi <email>
Berkeley Heights, NJ USA 04/13/04

Train Reservations?
Does anyone know which website or where to go to make night train reservations from the US? I tried www.raileurope.com but they didn't seem to have all the different options, just one or two trains and not the ones I wanted. I know Rick says it's not necessary to make train reservations, but what is everyone else's opinions? We've already booked all of our hotels/B&B's so we're definitely sticking to an itinerary and have a pretty good idea which trains we want to take.
Ashlee
Kansas City, USA 04/13/04

Paris — Hotel Kensington
Has anyone stayed at Hotel Kensington in Paris? It's right across from the Eiffel Tower, and is cheaper (and more available) than the nearby hotels on Rue Cler. Should I be nervous that it's so easy to get a room there? I can't find a single web review on this place!
Kathy F. <email>
Seattle , WA USA 04/13/04

1st trip to Europe
I'm thinking about taking a solo trip to Europe after I graduate high school in 2006, kind of as a celebration before college. I can be gone about a month, but have NO IDEA where to go or how much mony to save up. Any help is welcome!
Jessica <email>
Prior Lake, MN USA 04/13/04

Tea in London
Will be in London in late May and will probably only have time for tea once while there. I checked out Londontown.com — a great website and they have the top five they recommend: The Ritz, Claridges, The Dorchester, The Lanesborough, and The Savoy. I know RS likes the Savoy and have also heard Brown's Hotel is good — but not among the top five. Does anyone have any advice? Are they all quite similar? I've had tea at Harrods and Kensington Pal and they were very different and neither is my ideal place for tea. Thanks for any help!
Nini <email>
USA 04/13/04

PRIVATE WINE TOUR GUIDE IN THE WACHAU (Lower Austria)
Can anyone recommend a private tour guide to take us to a few wineries and vineyards in the Wachau (Lower Austria). If not, can anyone suggest where I might be able to find more information?
Todd W. <email>
Dallas, TX USA 04/13/04

Scotland in 9 days
I'm traveling with my mom for 9 days in Scotland. we need an intinerary! Thinking about buying the Freedom of Scotland travelpass, but if anyone knows of a tour company that would be more ideal, please let me know! Ideally i'm hoping to spend 2-3 days in Edinburgh and use the rest of my time in the Highlands region. Isle of Skye is a must, for at least 2-3 days. I need advice on where else to stop, and where to spend the night. I have accomodation all set in Edinburgh. Just need an intinerary for the rest of my time. Thanks!
tofufingers <email>
Boston, MA USA 04/13/04

Poland-car rental
HM Smirnoff — I have not had much luck. I found one company, but the rate was unbelievable! The Canadian government site suggests strongly that driving in Poland is very risky (www.voyage.gc.ca/dest/report-en.asp?country=241000) so we are looking at train travel and then renting in Czech and Germany. We rented 3 years ago in Hungary and Czech and loved the freedom it gave us to visit the small towns and meet the people. If you find anything interesting please let me know! Pat
Pat
CAD 04/13/04

Train Tickets/Museum tickets
We are traveling to Rome then taking the train to Venice, then Florence, and back to Rome. We are confused on what train to take Euro Italia? and do we need to buy our tickets in advance of our arriving in Italy. Where do we buy tickets to the museums before we get to Italy? and is that best? Please help We are leaving in 2 weeks Thanks in advance for any advice. Linda and Tony
Linda Manno <email>
Pittsburgh, PA USA 04/13/04

DRIVING IN POLAND
PAT: Let us know what you found out about taking a car out of Poland.
HM SMIRNOFF
RENO, NV USA 04/12/04

Vatican Tours — for Susan
Susan — I've been to the Vatican both on my own (with Rick's Mona Winks book, of course) and with a small tour group. I found the group experience to be very educational and learned tons of little details I'd never known before. We used Roman Odyssey tours and really enjoyed them. check out their website for details: http://romanodyssey.com/
Renee
CO USA 04/12/04

CLEAN INEXPENSIVE LODGING
LOUIE.....I have read many favorable comments on this page from travelers who have stayed in convents and monasteries... Take a look at this page for monasteries in Italy... http://search.csmonitor.com/durable/1999/08/31/p19s1.htm...you can also do a word search for "Accommodations Convents" or "Monasteries"... .Hope this will help you.
H V KOLMBERGEN
ALBANY, NY USA 04/12/04

Janet: camera chargers
Janet, my digi camera charger isn't dual voltage, but I had no problems using a transformer. Just make sure you use the 50w setting, not the higher 1600w.
Zaida <email>
USA 04/12/04

Villa Belvedere Taormina
To Nichole in Seattle- It's a great place! You will absolutely love it! Sitting on your balcony overlooking the bay will put you right in touch with la dolce vita. It is in a really great location — convenient to town but pretty quiet too. And great people, but it seems that all the people we encountered in Sicily were great. I also enjoyed Villa Ducale (also in Taormina): much smaller than Villa Belvedere but with that same amazing view and incredibly hospitable hosts. For my money in Tuscany, best bang for the buck for view, location, peace and quiet, and a glass (or 2 or 3 or 4...)of chianti is Agriturismo La Camporena near Greve. Feel free to E-mail me if you'd like some more thoughts!
Ken <email>
Naples, FL USA 04/12/04

Looking for a Room in Vernazza
My mother and I are travelling to Vernazza, in the Cinque Terre, and we're trying to decide whether to make a reservation at Elisabetta's Villino Azzurro or with Mike and Frana Castiglione. Would anyone be able to give us some feedback on either of these places? Thanks!
Amber <email>
State College, PA USA 04/12/04

VILLA RENTAL IN TUSCANY
Jenn.........If you don't get help from Grafitti wall, this page will give you a description of some villas in Tuscany...http://www.tuscany.net/index.html.... Click on Accommodations top left and then Click on "click here to visit estate" under photos.
HELLENE W
PALESTINE, TX USA 04/12/04

Vatican tours
We will be in Rome in mid May and have planned our sight seeing carefully. However, we are wondering if going on the Vatican Tour is best or just see as much of it on our own. Can anyone offer advice? Thanks!
Susan <email>
Ga USA 04/12/04

One Night in London
It sounds like the basis for a bad 80's movie, but anyway, 3 friends and I are spending one night in London on our way back to the US from Italy. Any suggestions on reasonable lodgings with quad rooms? (Many Thanks
Carolyn Golden <email>
Kansas City, MO USA 04/12/04

Italia
Could we get information on Residenza Cellini,Hotel Santa Maria. We are planning a trip to Italy in June. We have read many good reports. We begin and end our trip in Rome. Any tips on places in Ravello on the Amalfi coast?
Kellers in Seattle <email>
Seattle, WA USA 04/12/04

Hyde Hotel
Melissa, If you're talking about the Hyde Hotel at 55 Westbourne Terrace (near Paddington), my sister has stayed there a number of times. The pictures on the web look different from the rooms she's been in, but she has they have all been a decent size with a decent-sized bathroom. She has usually stayed in a quad room or a triple though, so if you're looking for a smaller room you might have a different experience. I don't know that she would call it a "great" hotel, but definitely good enough to recommend to others looking for a place to stay in London.
Leslie
CA USA 04/12/04

Where should I stay in Edinburgh
Where should I stay in Edinburgh? HELP Going to be in Edinburgh in July, and need the recommendation of a good place to stay! I'd prefer a B&B or hotel over a hostel. jgoldsmi@usc.edu
John Goldsmith <email>
LA, CA USA 04/12/04

Night Train Reservation
I used a service to make a reservation on a night train from Vienna to Zurich. I asked for a private double sleeper. However, the reservation slip sent to me is in German, and I cannot verify that the correct reservation was made. I have used the online translators to "read" the slip, but it mentions nothing of a private sleeper. Instead, it says, "2 Double oben" (translation: 2 Doubles above). Is there any way to know if this is correct? Or was I placed in two top berths in a larger room?
Ken <email>
Dallas, TX USA 04/12/04

Fishing in the UK
I'm planning to go to the U.K. and Ireland this September, and I'd like to do some fishing. Does anyone know about getting a license to fish in the U.K. or Ireland.
Andy <email>
la crosse, WI USA 04/12/04

Ashley Re: Contact Lenses
Have you looked into getting daily disposable lenses? I wear contacts everyday and am looking into them myself. I guess it would depend on how long you are going for, because the individual contact packages do take up some space (I don't think that much though, as they are pretty flat). But you could just bring a couple of pairs in the daypack for emergency purposes. When you want to change into your glasses just take the contacts off and throw them out... no solution, no case, no hassel.
Heather
Vancouver, BC Canada 04/12/04

Hotel in Taormina, Sicily
Has anyone stayed at Hotel Villa Belvedere in Taormina, Sicily? If so, could you provide any feedback about your experience there? And/or recommend something similar in Taormina. We are also having a hard time narrowing down the many choices of agritourism/villa apartments to rent in Tuscany. Would welcome any advice on this as well. Thanks!
Nichole <email>
Seattle, WA USA 04/12/04

clean and inexpensive lodging
have heard that monks,sisters or priests provide clean bedding for travellers in Italy — if so do you know anything about it — please email me any info on this topic
louie breda <email>
Surrey B. C. , Canada 04/12/04

VIENNA BUDAPEST PRAGUE
I gave the web page address wrong; it is www.raileurope.com.
NANNY FAYE Q
QUINCY, TX USA 04/12/04

VIENNA BUDAPEST PRAGUE
Samantha......I have bought point-to-point tickets all through Europe without problem.....Go to europerail.com and click on "fares and schedules" in the left column....you can find departure times and fares for the trips you plan to take.....the best tip I have heard is to check the car you get on to be sure it us going where you want to go....be sure to ask several passengers and the conductor...many people don't understand your questions.....watch for first class cars and smoking sections....keep an eye on your luggage all the time....put it on the shelf above your seat or on the seat with you if possible....you can't be too careful.
NANNY FAY Q
QUINCY, TX USA 04/12/04

CAPRI ITALY HOTEL
Susan....try this web page for information on San Felice.... http://capri.italy.allwebhotels.com/hotel.phtml/4671/intl/en.
M C CLARK
FORT WORTH, TX USA 04/12/04

DRIVING IN POLAND
Pat~~~~~~~I had a similar problem when I rented a car in Frankfurt to drive into Hungary, Poland, Cz Rep, Austria and Slovakia.....I called several agencies and finally rented from Kemwel, which is a British wholesaler....when I took the car it was from Sixt, a German auto rental agency.....I suggest you call several agencies and talk with an agent so you can ask questions and tell him exactly where you plan to drive....Start by asking if they rent cars in Poland; that will save you lots of time.....Try these: Kemwel 800-576-1590 or 800-678-0678, Auto Europe 888-223-5555, DER 888-337-7350, Avis 800-331-1212, National 800-227-7368, Alamo 800-327-9633.
c lamar jr.
temple, tx USA 04/12/04

telephoning within Norway
Has anyone purchased a mobile phone (pay-as-you-go) in Norway for calling just within Norway, or used telephone calling cards for calling within Norway? If so, can you please give me some tips/advice on which companies have good calling plans (pay-as-you-go) and which calling cards are the best deals? Thank you.
Alan <email>
Madison, WI USA 04/12/04

Capri Italy
Does anyone know anything about Hotel San Felice in Capri,Italy?
Susan <email>
White Plains, NY USA 04/12/04

Janet: I have an iPod (purchased in the U.S.) and a Canon digital camera (from Europe) and both have dual-voltage chargers. So, no transformer is necessary, just a plug adapter. (Ditto for my laptop.) But double-check your camera charger before plugging it in; just make sure it says 110/220 somewhere on it.
Peter
Amsterdam, NL 04/11/04

Digital camera and iPod question
For upcoming travel, I'm planning to buy a digital camera, and am considering an iPod mini as well. I assume both of those would need recharging daily. My question is whether the chargers they come with automatically convert to European voltage. Or should I be concerned about European voltage frying them?
Janet
USA 04/11/04

Go-Vacations Hotels
Karen — which hotel did you used for you package ? I am thinking of using that package also. Their website wasn't too good with some of their descriptions or photos. Thanks
sue
berkeley, ca USA 04/11/04

London Hotel
I am trying to book a hotel in London.I am curious if anyone knows anything about the Hyde Hotel. It looks great online but I wonder how great it really is?
Melissa <email>
Jackson, MS USA 04/11/04

c lamar jr
thanks for input re Poland trip. We have not found a car rental co that will let us take the car out of Poland — can you help? Pat
Pat
USA 04/11/04

CONFUSING EUROPEAN TRAIN PASSES
Nancy.....there is bus service from Ciampino Airport to Ciampino railway station and to Anagnina underground station.... From Ciampino railway station there are trains to Roma Termini Station, every 15 minutes.... From Anagnina underground station there is the tube to the centre of Rome, every 5 minutes...... Bus stop and bus ticket vending machines are situated next to the Departure and Arrival Terminals...... The train from Rome to Florence runs every 30 minutes....first class fare is $55 and second class fare is $39.
C R C
DALLAS, TX USA 04/11/04

accomodations in florence
Any suggestions for hotel/bb in florence..we will be there for 4 nights. Thanks.
Rivy <email>
FL USA 04/11/04

Prague hotel
does anybody have any info on hotel denisa in Prague? Thanks
lloyd <email>
naperville, il USA 04/11/04

Confusing European Train Passes
I'm going to a cooking school in Florence, Italy for about a month and then go around Europe for 3 weeks after that. I'm thinking about getting the Flexipass for 2 months in 5 countries. Would it be better if I get a pass for Italy and a flexipass for only one month? Any suggestion? Also, Does anyone know how to get from Ciampino Airport to Florence?
Nancy, @ WSU <email>
Pullman, Washington, WA USA 04/11/04

Vienna/Budapest/Prague
We are travelling to Budapest, Vienna, and Prague for two weeks in Mid-May. Will we have problems buying point to point train tickets when we arrive? Tips and suggestions appreciated.
Samantha Zahn <email>
Detroit, MI USA 04/11/04

room fairs
how much is it to stay in a safe place overnight in Italy for a teenage girl?
marie <email>
linden, ca USA 04/11/04

TRAVEL LONDON TO LAKE DISTRICT TO EDINBURGH
Diane....go to this page..... http://www.trailpackeruk.freeservers.com/invernessnew.html...click on Isle of Skye to Inverness and at the bottom of the page they say to email your questions....ask all you need to know about their tours to Lake District and Isle of Skye.
S. JUKILLOKJY
SANTA FE, NM USA 04/11/04

Baggage weight
Barbara — Are you sure it was 13# or 13 kilos? Most sites I have checked in the UK are around 15 kilos or 33# for checked baggage and about 5-7 kilos (11-15#) for carryon.
Evan <email>
Virginia Beach, VA USA 04/11/04

Travel from London thru the Lake District to Edinborgh and on to the Isle of Skye (tour)
My husband and I will be in Edinburgh, Scotland the end of May and would like to take a tour, including the Isle of Skye. Can anyone recommend a 3 or so day tour? We will be coming from London and want to go thru the Lake District. Any Advice. Thanks so much.
Diane Blood <email>
Manchester, MO USA 04/11/04

DRIVING IN POLAND
Pat~~~~~~~If you have a week in Poland, you will have time to go to the Tourist Information Office in Warsaw to get brochures of places to see......buy a good highway map of Poland and one for Germany and select a route which will put you through the cities with sights which will interest you. ....No one can know which sights you are interested in. ....only you can determine that...rent a car and drive to Munich....There are so many small towns with unique buildings you can spend days walking through them.....my wife and I drove through Czech Rep, Slovakia, Poland and Germany last year.....driving was fun and the only problem we had was in reading some of the highway signs because they were old and weathered....reading the language was no problem.
c lamar jr
temple, tx USA 04/11/04

B A LUGGAGE WEIGHT
Barbara.....based on what I read from travelers on the internet, you never know when security will weigh luggage. ... Some airlines will sometimes and others may not. ..... I always assume they will and pack accordingly. .... Unless you are willing to pay the extra fee for overweight.
c m hand
tulsa, ok USA 04/11/04

Contact Lenses
I wear contact lenses, but I ALWAYS carry around my glasses, lens case and lens solution in case I need to quickly remove my contacts. Does anyone have any creative ways to pack this without the bulkiness? Even the small bottles of solution take up a lot of room in a daypack.
Ashley <email>
Victoria, BC Canada 04/10/04

Ferry Schedules
I want to take a ferry from Santa Margherita Luigure to visit the Castle from the movie "enchanted April". Can someone give me a website to make the arrangements
<email>
buffalo, ny USA 04/10/04

HARWICH TO LONDON TRANSPORTATION
Robyn~~~~~~~The Harwich home pg doesn't show port transportation...Go to this Harwich web page... http://www.02cruise.com/LineSearch/index.asp ....at the bottom of the page click on "Ask the wizard" and list your question .....or call them toll free at 877-346-3433.
wanda
albany, ny USA 04/10/04

B.A. lugggage weight
I had a small daypack that weighed more than 13 lbs, and it never got weighed. Others with larger items had to check them. I guess if it looks heavy, they might weigh it.
Jason <email>
Reno, NV USA 04/10/04

Day trip via train-Paris to London
About Abbey Road. The actual studio isn't open to the public, but the famous crosswalk is there 24/7. Use the tube (London Underground...subway). Take the Jubilee line to the St. John's Woods station. From there, walk down Grove End Road, and you will come to Abbey Road. The first crosswalk you'll see on the right is the famous crossing. There is a webcam at Abbey Road studios, viewing the crossing. For a bit of fun, coordinate with a friend, and have them capture your picture crossing Abbey Road. http://www.abbeyroad.co.uk/virtual_visit/webcam/
Jason <email>
Reno, NV USA 04/10/04

Day trip via train-Paris to London

Jason <email>
r, USA 04/10/04

Harwich-London transportation
How can I get economically from Harwich cruise ship terminal to London centre?
Robyn <email>
austin, tx USA 04/10/04

Livorno/Florence accessibility
My wife (who is handicapped and in a wheelchair)and I are looking at taking the train from Livorno to Florence and back for the day. How accessible is the train for a person in a wheelchair and do I need to give them advance notice or just show up that day and ask for help to get on and off the trains?
Dan Bertellotti <email>
Foster City, Ca USA 04/10/04

Day trip via train-Paris to London
I am traveling from Paris to London for a day trip via chunnel. My questions are: Harrods, Abby Road, American Bar-is this possible between 10a-7p? Using cabs, of course. How much are food and drinks, including beer and wine, on the train?
Pat Hilliard <email>
Greensboro, nc USA 04/10/04

Car rental & suggested Chianti wineries
Car rental suggestion in Florence & suggested Chianti wineries. Could someone please suggest a car rental agency in Florence and suggest 4 to 5 wineries to go to in the Chianti region? We don't want to spend a lot of driving, so I was thinking that some wineries between Florence & around Greve would be good. The second or third winery we would like to have lunch. Or can anyone suggest a reasonable tour company that does wine tours from Florence? Could someone please suggest a car rental agency in Florence and suggest 4 to 5 wineries to go to in the Chianti region? We have one day & don't want to spend a lot of driving, so I was thinking that some wineries between Florence & around Greve would be good. The second or third winery we would like to have lunch. Or can anyone suggest a reasonable tour company that does wine tours from Florence?
Carol Martini <email>
Roswell, GA USA 04/10/04

B.A. lugggage weight
website says 13 # weight restriction on British airways..will my carry-on really be weighed?...
Barbara <email>
Houston, Tx USA 04/10/04

Spain/Terrorism-For Katherine
Have no fear but take some common sense precautions. It is probably best to avoid crowds when possible (as said below) BUT don't let this rule your vacation. It is hard to avoid crowds if you wish to see many of the main sites especially in tourist season. I always try to blend in as best I can. You will look like a tourist but just make sure you don't scream "american" in your dress or behaviour. For the record, when travelling these days I think it is wise not to be obviously ANY NATIONALITY if you can avoid it. Don't speak too loudly, do dress appropriately for Europe (dark shoes always, no clothing with writing on it, no fanny packs, no shorts, no baseball caps, no expensive or flashy clothing or jewelry or fancy cameras, etc). You can't really guard against a major terrorist attack (like the one in Madrid, Bali, or even 9-11) but you can decrease your chance of becoming a victim in some other way. Be alert and most of all, have fun.
scott
london, UK 04/10/04

Paul : Driving in Italy
http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/home.htm Check the tips page!

USA 04/10/04

Poland
We are landing in Warsaw in early July and flying out of Munich 3 weeks later. Any ideas re what to see in Poland or a good route to Munich. Should we take a car or do a tour in P?
Pat <email>
Surrey, BC Canada 04/10/04

London to Haarlem
You could fly easyJet from Gatwick to Amsterdam or BMI from Heathrow to Amsterdam. From there it's a very short train ride to Haarlem.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA 04/10/04

Help — Need to buy an ETBD guide book while IN Spain
Help! I lost my ETBD Spain & Portugal Guidebook at the very beginning of my 5 week trip... Does anyone know a place in Spain where I can pick up another copy?? So far I have tried 2 El Corte Ingles stores in Madrid and a smaller store in Sevilla with no luck...I can´t imagine finishing the trip without all that incredible information.... Near Madrid would be great, but anywhere in Spain is OK, as I was expecting to cover most areas on this trip.
Holly Neilson <email>
Sacramento, CA USA 04/09/04

Cheap Sleeps
Has anyone stayed at the Hotel du Commerce in Paris and what did you think?
Janet <email>
Boonville, CA USA 04/09/04

LONDON TO HAARLEM
RENEE~~~~~~go to www.raileurope.com and click on fares and schedules in the left column...you will find eleven departures listed and the elapsed time from London to Brussels is 3 hours and 20 minutes on every departure.....full fare is listed at $345 first class and $249 second class.....I suggest you try flying....check europebyair.com which lists 3 airlines at $99 one way. ...I have flown europebyair several times and they are great.....then check these in this order: virgin-express.com, bmi.com, ryanair.com, skyeurope.com, easyjet.com. ....call the toll-free number and ask questions about restrictions before you buy.
WALTER ZUGGE
OMAHA, NEB USA 04/09/04

Package via Go-Today
We just returned from a Go-Today special to Paris. We had never used a package deal, but this was great. To be able to travel to Paris from Denver for a week for less than a long weekend to either coast was wonderful. I will continue to monitor Go-Today deals for future quick trips.
Karen <email>
CO USA 04/09/04

Using Visa for gas purchase
We have found that the "pay at the pump" places in Europe (France at least) seem to have an encoded card that uses a special pin. The pins we have for ATM use don't seem to work. We bought gas at places where we could pay cash, but Sundays were a problem.
Karen <email>
CO USA 04/09/04

London — Haarlem....why does it take so long??
I'd like opinions on whether this possible itinerary is do-able. We land in London at approx 1 pm and want to stay in Haarlem, NL that night. I just checked Rick's planning map and it looks like the train connection from London to Brussels is 3 hours and $200 one way....does that sound right? I thought the Eurostar was cheaper and faster than that? Then from Brussels to Amsterdam is another three hours and $35. wow.....that's a long time! Figure in customs/security/confusion/jet lag/other possible delays....well, I'm not comfortable arriving in Haarlem at 9 pm or so (we have a hotel reserved already, but can change it). So, are these times way off? If they are accurate, I'm thinking about staying over in Brussels that night and taking an early train to Amst/Haarlem the next morning. Any input/ideas/suggestions/personal experiences are welcomed...
Renee
CO USA 04/09/04

Train travel from Prague to Karlstein Castle
Will be in Prague in early June,2004, on guided tour.During our 1 1/2 day of free time, would like to take train to Karlstein Castle. Prague has several train stations — -which one has the train going to the castle? and, once we arrive there, can castle be reached by walking?
Dee <email>
Loves Park, IL USA 04/09/04

Prague Train Tickets
When in Europe this Summer we will be leaving Prague on an early morning train and would like to buy tickets in advance without having to take the time to go to the train station. Since the train we're taking is not direct, RailEurope doesn't handle tickets for it. Does anyone know of an agency in Prague's Old Town where one can buy train tickets?
Ray French <email>
Bellevue, WA USA 04/09/04

Amalfi Coast
I'm a 26 year old African-American woman traveling solo to the Amalfi Coast for the summer. Can anyone provide me with feedback on the treatment of African-Americans? Thanks, Terah
Terah Shelton <email>
Tampa, FL USA 04/08/04

EUROS IN EASTERN EUROPE
KAREN......Hungary and Czech Republic tentatively plan to join the European Union on May 1, but they won't use the euros until 2008.....you will have to live with the old currency for quite a while.
CHICK
TULEN, AZ USA 04/08/04

Donating Clothes There are yellow recycle bins (often near churches)in most of the italian towns where you can put your old clothes. They will be donated to charity.

italy 04/08/04

Searching for Italian POWs
European WWII soldiers who were captured by the U.S. Army were often housed in camps across the U.S., and with our next trip to Italy, I will be trying to contact any living soldiers who might remember their POW-in-America (specifically Missouri) experiences (an exciting new dimension to the trip). I know a guy who wrote a book on this fascinating topic and is looking for more information. SO — Can anyone please tell me if there are any WWII museums in Italy I can visit, or does anyone have any ideas on how I can reach some of these WWII vets in Italy, see if they're willing to tell about their POW experience in America? Any ideas are welcome.
Sarah <email>
Park Hills, MO USA 04/08/04

Travel to Normandy
Hello, We are planning a trip to London in November of this year. I would like to take 3 days to travel to the Normandy battlefields. What is the fastest way to get there? I will not be renting a car if I can help it. Should we take a train to Portsmouth to catch the ferry or should we take the Eurostar to Paris and catch a local train there? Thanks for any help!
Wes <email>
Dover, DE USA 04/08/04

Ignorant Train Woes!!
Yikes! I have been using online websites to get an idea of prices/times for my European travels this summer. Everything is smooth, until I tried to get from La Spezia [Cinque Terra] to Carcassone [via Nice maybe?] France. By my estimates, it's a nightmare trip of unnnecessary long rides, and tight or impossible changeovers. Is this something that train station agents can help me with, or should I bag Carcassone and try to get to more accessible place? Also, if this question is not answered here, do I have to wait to get to Italy to purchase such a ticket, or, let's say, could I have an agent in France or elsewhere help and arrange the reservation. Signed — excited but confused!
aaron wyatt <email>
Portland, or USA 04/08/04

Driving in Italy
Do I requered to get a special permition to drive in Italy or our USA (CA) driver licence will be OK? Thanks in advance. Paul Sidorov Pacifica, CA
Paul <email>
Pacifica, CA USA 04/08/04

Hotels.nl = bad service
Has anyone on this board booked through Hotels.nl for any hotels in the Netherlands? I've had problems with them and want to know if anyone else has as well. Thank you
Jen Grondin <email>
Ithaca, NY USA 04/08/04

Thalys train reservation needed?
Would I be running a big risk by not reserving a Thalys train from Paris to Cologne, Germany? I am hoping I can get a better rate a day or two beforehand while in Paris.
Sharon <email>
Phoenix, AZ USA 04/08/04

Euros in Eastern Europe
Can I use Euros in Prague and Budapest?
Karen
BC Canada 04/08/04

Florence Hotels
Any good suggestions for a nice hotel or b&b in Florence? We will only be there for 1 night and we found out ( too late) that the place we reserved Johanna I had a bad review ( bed bugs!). So, we need to start over. Any ideas? Thanks
Melinda Hall <email>
Lafayette, CO USA 04/08/04

Re: Comfortable, but cute shoes?
If you are used to walking around all day in the high pointy shoes by all means wear them, you will be in total style here. I have a pair of black flats that I found a few years ago. They are my most comfortable pair of shoes (a black sole about an inch think all around, and one simple black strip over the top) I can wear them walking around for the day with a jean skirt, with kakis, or evan nicer shirts/ pants. Look in major dept. stores, and around the mall. another option would be find one or two basic pairs and then buy more while you are here!
Lindsay
Salzburg, Austria 04/08/04

accomodation in Orvieto Italy
Can anyone send info on affordable accomodation for a one student in Orvieto June 5-18? I would appreciate any help you can give; thanks!
Catharine McGlade <email>
New York, NY USA 04/07/04

Travel Fans
Marie from Salinas California on July, 2003 mentioned a battery operated travel fan from Wal Mart. Any recollection as to brand or does anyone else have any suggestions for a good portable fan. My wife and I sleep much better with one.
Hal <email>
Denver, CO USA 04/07/04

Danskos question
I'm wondering if the soles of the Dansko Golden Gate collection (the more "urban"-type shoes Dansko makes, with the lower, wider soles) has enough grip for some trail walking in the Alps. (No serious hiking — but some amount of hills on unpaved trails.)
JJ
USA 04/07/04

London airport transfers
To M. Blume — -there are also direct express busses between the various London airports, like from Heathrow to Stansted. This way, you don't need to go into London, cross town to a different train station, and catch a train back out. You can get information on the Heathrow airport website, www.baa.com. Click on one of the airports, and then look at "Getting Here" or something like that. Last year it was 16 pounds from Heathrow to Gatwick; probably similar for Stansted.
Lura
Seattle, WA USA 04/07/04

Donating Clothes
I want to take 'throw-away' clothes on my trip to Italy. How do I find a way to donate the clothes to a charity, etc? Any suggestions?
Renee <email>
Blessing, TX USA 04/07/04

Spain Visit
Katherine....I would take the advice of the experts and go without fear....just avoid crowds because the terrorists attack where there are the most people to kill....As soon as you arrive ask at the Tourist Information Office how to avoid risk. .....Many times you can seek the advice of fellow travelers, hotel clerks, travel agents and any others you can trust....Many travelers advise to avoid looking like an American...some suggest buying a local hat and wearing it....keep your camera hidden....always wear a money bag....never discuss political issues in public with anyone-even Americans.
Mera Rothenflue
Tulsa, OK USA 04/07/04

CAR RENTAL IN ITALY
SARAH.....renting at a downtown location is generally cheaper than at an airport, but you should ask when you rent the car. I have been told by a few agencies that the rate is the same. Call Kemwel at 800 678 0678, Auto Europe at 888 223 5555, or Sixt at 800 800 4000. Talk to an agent so you can ask questions about your rental agreement and the comparative cost of pickup at the airport. Get prices from all agencies before you contract for a car.
ELIZABETH
SACRAMENTO, CA USA 04/07/04

LONDON AIRPORTS
LONDON AIRPORTS M BLUM...following are some Graffiti pages from prior posters which may help you.... TIME FROM GATWICK TO STANSTEAD IN LONDON.... I copied this web page: ww.ebury-house-hotel.com/optimised/3_5,1.htm. Apparently the trains to and from the airports connect through Victoria station. "Gatwick Airport.....By rail.... Connex South Central and Gatwick Express rail services run direct to Victoria. Journey time is around 30-45 minutes. Trains run every 20 minutes. On exiting Victoria train station follow the walking directions below. Cost will be roughly £8.20 standard single..... Taxi..... We do not recommend you take a taxi from Gatwick as it is very expensive and takes a long time....... Stanstead Airport......By rail .... Stansted Skytrain services run every 15 minutes (30 minutes on Saturdays and Sundays) to Liverpool Street Station. Change to the Underground and take the Circle Line to Victoria Station. Follow the walking directions listed below. .... Walking directions from Victoria Underground and Victoria Train Station..... When exiting the Underground station look for signs Buckingham Palace Road (Coach Station). After you have exited the Underground you will be at the front of the Train Station. Walk up Buckingham Palace Road, towards the Coach Station and turn right onto Eccleston Street. Walk up to first set of traffic lights and turn left onto Ebury Street and walk until you reach the Hotel (number 102) this should take 5-10 minutes....... If you have a lot of luggage and would prefer to take a taxi the cost will be £5-£8 depending on number of passengers and amount of luggage..... another letter.... The tube runs to Heathrow, but the trip into the city can be lengthy. My sister often travels between Heathrow and Paddington Station on the tube and says it takes about 45 minutes. She takes the Heathrow Express if she's in a hurry, but it's a lot more expensive(12 pounds). I used the journey planner on the Transport for London website (www.tfl.gov.uk) to check times from Waterloo to Heathrow for part of our trip and it's about 50 minutes just from Picadilly Circus to Heathrow (not counting the 10 minute walk to the terminal). Be aware that the transportation card with the London Pass can't be used before 9:30 a.m. since it's an off-peak pass and it offers no discount from what it would cost to buy one without the London Pass — just more convenience in getting them together. Also, if you're there over the weekend, a weekend travelcard is only around 8 pounds — a bit cheaper than the 11 pounds charged to purchase transportation with the London Pass. The tfl website has a fares booklet you can look at online to figure out whether a single ticket for before 9:30 combined with an off-peak card would be the cheapest option. They're also good about answering questions by e-mail.
REMI MUIRHEIMN
CLEVELAND, OH USA 04/07/04

Airport acommadations;Rome
Please recommend a hotel close to Rome's airport, We have a early morning departure. Many thanks! Roberta Cook
Roberta Cook <email>
Batesville, IN USA 04/07/04

London airports
Does anyone know what's involved in getting from Heathrow to Stansted Airport in London? How much time should one allow? Would love advice about the best way to get to Biarritz from the U.S.?
M Blum <email>
Greenbrae, CA USA 04/07/04

Car rental in Italy
Can someone recommend an inexpensive car rental agency to use in Italy? And, is it true that renting a car at a location other than the airport is cheaper than from the airport location due to the airport surcharge added?
Sarah Dove <email>
santa rosa, ca USA 04/07/04

Spain Visit
My husband and I are traveling to Portugal and Spain in September. We are a little concerned due to the recent events in Spain, but not enough to stay home. We will be traveling by car rather than train. Has anyone visited since the bombings started? Does anyone have tips, advice, opinions? Thanks!
Katherine Humphrey <email>
KS USA 04/07/04

To Paul re: Beer Tours
We took a 10-day beer tour to Belgium in 2001 with a company that's no longer in business. It was great fun, and we liked Belgium enough to return on our own last fall. If you end up travelling independently, definitely do the Straffe Hendrik tour if you're in Bruges. If you're looking for an organized tour, check out the sites below. I have no experience with either of these companies, but their trips look interesting: www.beertrips.com www.globalbeer.com/web/body_pages/Brewery-tour/TripSept2004/Description.html
Bonny B <email>
Tucson, AZ USA 04/07/04

Walking Shoes in Italy
Angela: Many thanks for your advise regarding walking shoes for Italy ~ much appreciated!
Joan <email>
Toronto, ONT Canada 04/07/04

Stazione Maritima Naples
Is there a facility for storing luggage at the stazione maritima in Naples?
Neil Pederson <email>
Austin, TX USA 04/07/04

Venice — Locanda Novo
I will be staying at Locanda Novo in Venice for 3 nights in late May, so if you want to email me after June 6, I can give you my impressions/thoughts.
Hille <email>
WI USA 04/07/04

To Adele re: Walking Shoes for Italy
Adele — If your sandals are VERY comfortable, you will probably wear them most of the time, but you may want to take another pair of walking shoes just in case it rains, or your sandals wear a blister and you need a change. Yes, your husband will be out of place in white running shoes in Italy! It has been my experience that, especially in cities, Italian adults do not wear white athletic shoes or shorts unless they are participating in a sport. I suggest that he look for some black or brown walking shoes.
Angela
USA 04/07/04

Ireland in Dec
Matt Henry — If you go to Ireland in Dec you will probably get airline tickets for a reasonable price for sure. The down side will be the weather. We were there last in early June and had no idea it would be so cold. We were told it was unusual. If Dec works for you I would say go for it! Be very sure to take adequate warm clothing — the Aran knitted sweaters you can buy there are good value if you really want something warm. Don't know how much time you are allowing, but read the travel books and decide what you want to see. Study a map and plan your routes if you plan to rent a car which is the best way to see Ireland. Driving is slow — country roads with sheep and cows having the right of way. If you have never been you may choose to see Dublin but the smaller towns are the charming places with small pubs and irish singing. The Irish seem happy to have US tourists and will make you feel welcome. We enjoy staying on farms and experiencing the countryside. Have a great trip!
Susan <email>
Ga USA 04/07/04

Where do l find
Hi am looking for a holiday in Europe ...maybe Germany or Austria l am 50+ Male ...not over the hill but not too interested in spending time walking up mountains all day ( one foot in ten type) need maybe a mixed group about my age walking and maybe afew little bike rides...can anyone point me at a place or company ...where l will beable to smile and enjoy my holiday and make new friends too ????
Dave <email>
Bude Cornwall uk, uk USA 04/07/04

ETBD Best of Rome — scavi tour
I'm going on the Best of Rome tour in June, and I notice on the schedule that a lot of the free time is scheduled in the afternoons after lunch with the group. I really want to apply for a ticket to the scavi tour, and I'm trying to figure out what the best time of day would be to request the tour. If you've been on the Rome tour, could you give me an idea of when lunch usually is (noon, 1:00) and how long it took? I don't want to abandon any group activities, but I really want to do the scavi tour, so I want to be sure to request a realistic time.
Teresa <email>
Seattle, WA USA 04/07/04

Walking Shoes
Will be touring Italy during last two weeks in July. Will probably wear my orthoedic sandles most of the time because it's going to be hot! Do I need other walking shoes, such as Ecco or Rockport? I've read that most people in Italy don't wear white running shoes. My husband wants to take his Air Balance running shoes that are basically white. Will he feel out of place? Thanks for any advice you can give us!
Adele <email>
Toronto, ONT Canada 04/07/04

Europe
Has anyone used Europeasap.com?
Beth Steffan <email>
Karthaus, Pa USA 04/07/04

RE:accomodation in italy
A Single rate is for one person and a Double rate is for two people regardless of how many or what type of beds are in the room, so in your case you will need a Double. In Italy you pay according to the number of people staying in the room, even if you want to cozy up on one single bed on your honeymoon.
Douglas
Italy 04/06/04

SHOULD WE BUY RAIL PASSES
SHOULD WE BUY RAIL PASSES KAREN.....I have ridden the train often in Europe and I have used a rail pass only once....that was because we were in Switzerland for seven days.....in your case I would buy point-to-point tickets....they will cost you less for the countries you will pass through than a rail pass will. Go to www.alleuroperail.com and click on "fares and schedules". ...you can find the fares between all the cities you will visit. ....add them together and compare with the cost of the rail pass.
HOMER
DALLAS, TX USA 04/06/04

accomodation in italy
A married couple requesting a room...should we request S (single) or D (double)? Any recommendations for hotels in rome, venice, and florence?
Rivy <email>
Boynton Beach, FL USA 04/06/04

Ireland in December
I am thinking about going to Ireland in December with my girlfriend, is this a good idea, and is there anything I should know?
Matt Henry <email>
Spokane, Wa USA 04/06/04

Eastern Europe and "Stored Value Cards" question
The May Consumer Reports magazine suggests using "Stored-Value Cards" (like phone cards) for cash when traveling abroad. How are such cards cashed and can I use them in Eastern Europe?
Dave Fiscus <email>
Sacramento, CA USA 04/06/04

Should we buy Eastern Rail Passes?
We are flying to Vienna in May, spending one week there, then taking the train to Prague for one week and on to Budapest for one week. We have to return to Vienna for our flight home. Should we purchase Eastern Rail Passes or just buy tickets as we need them? We are also thinking of travelling to Slovakia and maybe Salsburg to spend a day or so in each. Any suggestions are more than welcome. Thanks!
Karen <email>
Victoria , BC Canada 04/06/04

no re-confirmation of booked apartment
We booked an apartment for April 2004 outside of Rovigo, Italy directly with an agriturist listed villa and paid our deposit to them in Sept. 2003. When I've e-mailed to ask for re-confirmation of our booking, they do not respond. Is this a cause for concern? I suppose the worst that could happen is that we arrive and find we have no apartment, and must try to find other lodgings. Would I have any recourse if I encounter such a problem?
J. M. Kropa <email>
Fleetwood, PA USA 04/06/04

D-Bahn online timetable
I've had on a problem while looking for French (SNCF) trains on the German timetable site www.bahn.de. A lot of departures (including TGV) seemed to be missing. So I went to www.sncf.com and there they were. It could be my settings, but I couldn't see my error. Normally I find www.bahn.de comprehensive and helpful. But as always, it pays to double-check.
Dan
BC Can 04/06/04

Train travel in France
I have not travelled this route in a while, but the last time I did it was on the TGV which required a reservation. Check the Dbahn site, it will indicate if reservations are required or not.
Keith Jones
Dallas, TX USA 04/06/04

scottish show
Has anyone been to Jamie's Scottish Show in Edinburgh? Would you recommend it?
Jerry <email>
MN USA 04/06/04

Scandinavian Airlines experience?
Anyone traveled on Scandinavian airlines? I am looking for info on how they handle luggage weight restrictions? Any other general info about them would also be appreciated! Thanks. I am flying from London Heath to Copenhagen.
Team P <email>
Dallas, TX USA 04/06/04

Versailles and Seine River tours
Taking the RER to versailled takes around 30 minutes. the Castle is a quick 10 minute walk from the train station. You can sign up for a guided tour there, or just take a self guided tour.The grounds are beautiful and not to be missed. They have Seine rides leaving every 15 minutes or so ( right near the Eiffel Tower) without dinner. you don't need reservations and the tours last around an hour. Sunset is the most beautiful time to take the tour, with the light reflections off the water.
Holl <email>
Kaiserslatern, Germany 04/06/04

Cheap Sleeps
Has anyone stayed at the Hotel Phare in Paris? How was it? How do I contact them? Also, how do I contact the Instituto Santa Giullianna Falconier in Rome?
janet <email>
Boonville, CA USA 04/05/04

TRAIN SCHEDULES
Julie~~~~~~~~~~ search these railroad pages for schedules.... alleuroperail.com, ...railpass.com, raileurope.com, railtrains.com....usually there will be a "schedules and fares" designation you can click on.
HAMMY Z
RENAULT, AZ USA 04/05/04

Venice- Locanda Nova
Has anyone stayed at the Locanda Nova in Venice, and if so what was your experience? My wife & I will be there the end of Sept. Thanks for your insight!
Ted <email>
Bothell, Wa USA 04/05/04

Cooking classes
Does anyone know of any good,short (1-3 days) cooking classes the in Tuscany or Umbria areas? We're not interested in the 1 week, villa packages. Rather, we'd like to attend a few cooking classes while visiting the area.
Steve <email>
Vancouver, BC CA 04/05/04

Barcelona-Geneva Trains
Julie — if you go to Rick's "Links", then to the Deutschbahn, you can find the schedules, including how many stops and duration. I found an 8:34, arriving at 17:19 with one change in Montpellier. Have fun! Email: Darcyj@cableone.net
Darcy <email>
Lewiston, ID USA 04/05/04

Living in Lille
I have the opportunity to study in Lille, France for 10 months, but I've heard there are a lot of crime problems and that the city is in bad shape due to economic problems. Has anyone seen evidence of these problems, and are there are particularly bad neighborhoods?
Jennifer <email>
Bowling Green, OH USA 04/05/04

Train schedules
Does someone know if there is a train during the day from Barcelona to Geneva. The only trains I can find are at night for that itineray. Thank you
Julie Beals <email>
Charlotte, NC USA 04/05/04

Castiglione della Pescaia
Hi Ruth: We stayed at a timeshare north of Castiglione della Pescaia in Punta Ala and drove to Castiglione della Pescaia many times for food ir to spend the day. It is a very friendly town but one with not much history. The beaches around there are great — flat, sandy with warm water. I was swimming in mid October yet the beach was almost deserted. Tourism seems to really slow down in the fall so I doubt if you'd need a reservation. There are a few hotels and some private apartments to rent — go to the local Tourist Information office to get information. Good luck! Gerry
gerry <email>
USA 04/05/04

Buses in Tuscany
We'll be staying in a villa in Greve-in-Chianti for a week. I'd rather not rent a car to visit the Tuscan hilltowns (eg Voltera, San Gimignano, etc.). What is bus service like in this area? Is is practical to do this from Greve? Molto grazie, Gerry
Gerald Gabel <email>
Victoria, BC Canada 04/05/04

LIDA GUEST HOUSE
CYNTHIA....the Lida Guest House is at: Lopatecká 26.... 147 00 Praha 4 — Podolí... Tel.: 420-2- 61 21 47 66.... Fax: 420-2-61214766.... e-mail: lida@login.cz.....
LOZI G
hoboken, nj USA 04/05/04

To Troy — 3 days in Rome
Troy: Rome is a wonderful city. In my opinion, a 3 day stay would be an absolute bare minimum, but in a 3 week trip, 3 days may be all you have to work with . . . In answer to your question, 3 days, allotted as you described is doable. Frantic, but doable. I would allow the better part of a day for Ostia Antica. I don't know about tours of Ostia, but it's great to just wander through. I've been to Rome half a dozen times, and I have to say, unless you need to visit the American Express office (right next door) or particularly WANT to see a bunch of other tourists, the Spanish Steps is very skippable — particularly in a visit with limited time. My advice to you would be to read everything you can get your hands on about the areas you think you might like to visit (everywhere, not just Rome). Then make up a preliminary itinerary, with the understanding that it's not set in stone (you will not need advance reservations if there are only 2 of you.) You'll probably find that there will be places along your trip that you will want to stay in longer than you would have guessed, and others that you'll get to and find aren't as interesting to you as you would have thought. On my first trip to Europe, we chucked our itinerary on the 3rd day, met some locals, took their advice on places to visit, and ended up spending the most time in places that were barely on our radar screen when we were planning the trip. It was incredible! Part of the joy of Italy is taking the time to relax and enjoy, so do yourselves a favor and don't try to "over-schedule". Have a great trip!
Angela
USA 04/05/04

3 days in Rome
Troy in Minneapolis — we are going to Rome in May and will also allow only 3 days. I really feel that this will be adequate time and we will do our best to see all those sites that you mentioned. Our son and daughter in law were in Rome last summer and said this was enough time. We don't mind fast paced sight seeing and the big cities can get tiresome quickly. Based on all our previous travel we know "countryside" sights are for us. Have a great trip!
Susan <email>
Atl, USA 04/05/04

SIM Cards
Does anyone here know where you can buy cheap SIM cards for European countries? Specifically for Portugal, Switzerland and Italy? Thanks.
Nikolai <email>
San Diego, CA USA 04/05/04

Lidsa Guest House
How do I get in touch with the Lida Guest House in Prague to make reservations?
Cynthia Duechting <email>
Omaha, NE USA 04/05/04

Staying in Venice
Stay in Padua. We stayed in a 5 star hotel for about $85. It would have cost us about $200 in Venice or more. It is only a 20 minute ride by train so it is a perfect day trip. We stayed there saved the money and spent it on Venetian Glass souvenirs.
Tina <email>
TX USA 04/05/04

SLEEPING IN VENICE
EMILY......some people stay in Mestre, a suburb west of Venice....you can ride the train (5 minutes) from Venice for a small fare (25c when I was there)....you will find a number of hotels near the railroad station which are much cheaper than those in Venice. ........I would go from the airport to the railroad station and ride to Mestre and look for a hotel.
buzz mitchell
tulsa, ok USA 04/05/04

Train pass
Question re: consecutive pass vs. flexi pass. If we buy the 15-day consecutive pass, do we have to use it consecutively or can we use it on the 1st day and then say the 3rd day? Re: the flexi pass. For the 5-day travel one...if we take for instance two or three short trips within one 24 hour period, does that constitute as one trip within that 1-travel day or does each short trip count as one travel period? Thanks for the help.
Helpwanted <email>
USA 04/04/04

I am trying to book hotels in Europe (paris, rome, florence, cinque terre) and they all want me to give my credit card info via email to reserve. Is this standard practice and is it safe to give my card # over email? If you can answer my question, please email me abbyford@hotmail.com
<email>
USA 04/04/04

sleeping in Venice
I am flying into Venice after 9pm, have one day to see the city before meeting my tour in Padua..where should I sleep?
Emily <email>
woodinville, WA USA 04/04/04

Pin Numbers
Laurie...I suggest you go to your credit card company and get a new pin number......be sure you have a 4-digit number and not letters.
carla zuniga
new york city, ny USA 04/04/04

ITALY SIGHTS
JAN....... I would suggest you stop and visit: Bologna, Verona, Milano, Venezia, and Innsbruck.,,, Go to google.com and search for "Bologna Sights" and "Verona Sights", etc.....or substitute "Attractions" for "Sights". ....you will find a list of local sights to see in each city.
ELMO WHITE
NEW ORLEANS, LA USA 04/04/04

SPECIAL LOCAL HAPPENINGS
Bob~~~~~~ try this page: http://www.aixenprovencetourism.com/hallgb.htm...it may help you.
rudy z
elmhurst, ind USA 04/04/04

SPECIAL LOCAL HAPPENINGS
BOB......... go to this page : www.visitprovence.com/servlet/com.visitprovence.esolution.DispatchServlet?langue=2&dist=2GP...you will find some information on Provence festivals.....for more do a search for "Provence festivals"....if you can't find out in advance, ask the Tourist Information Office when you arrive.
MILDRED T
ATLANTA, GA USA 04/04/04

ST PETERSBURG
WILLIAM~~~~~~~~~~~~ When I went to Russia two years ago I applied for my visa at the Russian embassy and received it in 10 days.....I understand that is unusual....from what I have read you cannot do a day trip across the border to St Petersburg....write to the embassy to find out if they will permit it. .....check the cruise lines out of Helsinki for a one-day cruise to STPB.......when I went I saw no one-day cruises listed....try this web page:www.scantours.com/silja_line_opera_cruise....they list 3 and 4-day cruises, but you might write or phone for info on a day trip.
carla s
Reometer, Az USA 04/04/04

PIN numbers
While traveling in Denmark, Summer 2003, we had trouble using our VISA even though we had a PIN #. It was especially hard at gas stations when our PIN wouldn't work. They didn't seem to know why it didn't work and neither did VISA. We are going again May, 2004 — any suggestions why all the trouble or what else we can do??
Laurie <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA 04/04/04

INEXPENSIVE AIRFARE MUNICH TO LONDON
CS.....MUNICH TO LONDON is doable if you will search a few web pages......airberlin.com, europebyair.com, flybmi.com, bmibaby.com, ryanair.com, germaniaexpress.com, germanwings.com, jet2.com, virgin-express.com, easyjet.com, hlx.com, intersky.com, vbird.com.
H M S
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX USA 04/04/04

Travel from munchen to london
Try www.europebyair.com and possibly easyjet. Check out the post on Lonely Planet Thorn Tree. Someone listed a bunch of sites. When I find it I will send you a list of all the low cost airlines by country.
Evan <email>
Virginia Beach, VA USA 04/04/04

Car rental in Romania
We will be spending two weeks in Romania in July and would like to rent a car. Has anyone had experience renting there. Specifically, has anyone rented from other than the Big Three? We need something as inexpensive as possible but hesitate to reserve from a local company without knowing how reliable they are.
Meredith <email>
Ipswich, Ma USA 04/04/04

Costa Blanca , Advice
We are renting a Villa about 20 miles north of Alicante for about a month. I would love to hear from anyone with good advice about where to eat, visit, and places to visit outside of the large cities. I never see things about this area.
Chris <email>
Baltimore, MD USA 04/04/04

castiglion della Pescaia
Has anyone stayed at the beach in castiglion della pescaia? In September, will we need advance reservations? How is the water/sand? Thanks! Ruth
Ruth <email>
Bellevue, WA USA 04/04/04

ADVICE
I am traveling to spain for the month of May and staying approximatly 20 miles north of Alicante. I am looking for any information about good restaurants or must sees in the area. We are renting a car. Thanks

USA 04/04/04

Beer tours for Paul M.
In Franconia (Germany, northern Bavaria) there is a series of breweries that belong to the "Bierstrasse", or Beer Road, between Bad Windsheim (not far from Rothenburg) and Uehlfeld. You can tour these independently, but it would be wise to contact the tourist info office that handles the beer road for further details — they send out brochures, perhaps even in English, and can assist with booking rooms and other info. You can see a map of the area with the breweries, walking paths, and bike paths at the following page: www.bierstrasse.de/karte_gross.html There is also one page in English linked to the homepage of the same site. I have been in the area but have not visited the breweries myself. We stayed in Neustadt an der Aisch, a fine little town near the center of the Road. Perhaps you'll go and report back! The Strafe Heinrik (not sure about that spelling) brewery in Bruges is a good one. It's described in Rick's book on Belgium.
Russ <email>
Galt, CA USA 04/04/04

How Many Days in Rome?
My wife and I are planning a trip to Europe for 3 weeks in mid September. I'm wondering if we're allotting enough time in Rome for the things that we want to see. Right now, we are just looking at going to St. Peter's, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, the Forum, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps, and many of the piazzas and fountains. We are also looking at visiting Ostia Antica. Has anybody been there? How much time does it take to do that? Are there tours? Is St. Peter's and the Sistine Chapel doable in one day if we would like to take a guided tour of St. Peter's? We are also thinking of trying to get a reservation for the Scavi tour...I'm guessing that that would make doing that tour, St. Peter's tour, and seeing the Sistine Chapel a two day event. Is all this too hectic for a three day stay, with the Vatican sights one day, the Forum area another, and Ostia Antica on the third? Its tough to plan time when you've never been there and don't know the areas. Thank you for your help.
Troy <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA 04/04/04

Beer Tours
Has anyone been on or know of any tours to breweries and pubs in Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany or Britain? I am looking to go one a tour for a week or more in one of those countries. The tour companies can either be here in North America or in Europe. Thank you.
Paul McClure <email>
Lake Louise, AB CAN 04/04/04

Italy
We have 3 days in early August to get from Florence, Italy, to Salzburg, Austria. We'll be traveling by rail. Any suggestions as to where we should stop and what we should see would be much appreciated.
Jan <email>
Colorado Springs, CO USA 04/04/04

Pompeii
Does anyone know of any companies in Rome that provide a sophisticated guided tour to Pompeii without the drive-through of Naples and stopping at factories. We are willing to pay up to $150 per person.
Lana <email>
USA 04/04/04

Prague
I would like a nice place to stay in Prague for under 85 euros and centrally located. Any suggestions?
SUTCLIFFE, Gail <email>
Frisco, Tx. USA 04/04/04

Hotels in Torino
We are traveling to Italy this summer and would like reccommendations of quaint places to stay in the Torino area. Rick's book dosn't have any listing in this region. Thank you.
Kirke La Shelle <email>
San Martin, CA USA 04/04/04

validate East European rail pass
Hi.. could anyone please advise — I'm travelling on a direct overnight train from Bucharest to Budapest. I have a Balkans railpass and East European (EE) Rail pass. Does anyone know how I can validate my EE rail pass en route? — Is it possible to do this in Bucharest even though the EE pass is not effective in Romania? Is it possible to validate at the Hungary border rail station in the middle of the night (and will I have enough time to do it here anyway)? Are there any other options? Thanks for your help!
jason <email>
LA, CA USA 04/03/04

Train travel in France
I have the same question as Carla. Do we need train reservations at the end of June for travel from Paris to Dijon or do we just show up early at the station?
Bob <email>
Lakewood, Wa USA 04/03/04

Inexpensive airfare from Munich to London
What's the most inexpensive airline to fly from Munich, Germany to London???
C. Schones <email>
Costa Mesa, CA USA 04/03/04

France train travel
What is the easiest and fastest way to get from Normandy (Bayeaux) to Sarlat via train? Also, do you need reservations to travel in late June or July. Thanks, Carla in Seattle
Carla <email>
Seattle, wa USA 04/03/04

Egypt tour
Has anyone had experience with A-Z Tours International? I am considering a 1-week tour in Egypt. Your opinions would be a big help.
lyn <email>
Oceanside, CA USA 04/03/04

Rome Hotels
We stayed at the San Pantaleo in the P. Navona neighborhood. The rooms were very nice, clean, inexpensive (around 100 euo a night)and a great location. It's also near the Campo Del Fiore and easy walking distance to the Vatican and other Rome sights. it's also situated along main bus routes. The male manager did not have a lot of personality but his wife was very helpful
Sherry <email>
San Diego, CA USA 04/03/04

St. Petersburg
I will be in Helsinki, Finland this summer, and want to visit St. Petersburg, Russia. After looking at the cost (and hassle) of a visa for an overnight stay, I am now looking at just day-tripping into St. P from across the border. Has anyone been there recently that can help me out? Is this a good plan? Can you recommend a reliable local tour/guide(s) that can pick you up at the border, and get you back before the witching hour? I would be disappointed to be so close, and not be able to spend a few days.
William <email>
Vancouver, WWA USA 04/03/04

Italian train strike (FS) May 3-4
I understand there is a 24 hour train strike 2100 May 3 to 2100 May 4 by railroaders belonging to FS (Ferrovie dello Stato-State railroads) in Italy. That day I am planning to take the train between Florence and Lucca. Does anyone know if any train service will be available? There is bus service? Or is it likely the strike will be cancelled by then?
Casey <email>
Rochester, MN USA 04/03/04

Rome hotels
Suggesstion for a hotel near piazza navona
cmsitaly <email>
USA 04/03/04

Nikoli — Laptop
No more dangerous than any other electronic equipment. I'd think it would be more cumbersome than anything. Make sure you have the right kind of adaptors or you could burn or the battery up.

USA 04/03/04

Trains in Italy
Tristan — The Italian language version of www.trenitalia.com is almost always working. And you don't really need to know Italian to figure out what information to enter into the boxes. You can even get price quotes for many routes.

St. Paul, MN USA 04/03/04

Special Local Happenings
It seems like some of the best travel experiences we have had have been when we've stumbled onto a little community event when traveling through small towns (festival, folk music, even weddings). Unfortunately, more times than not, we hear about these AFTER they've happened (Oh, you should have been here yesterday!). We are going to be in Provence for the first week of July (with a car) and my question is: Is there any way to find out about these smaller local events ahead of time? Most of them are not posted on the Festivals in France calendars that I've seen. Thanks!
Bob <email>
Lakewood, Wa USA 04/03/04

September in Ireland
Will be walking the Ring of Beara (Ireland) in September. Anyone have any good tips on gear/clothing/weather? I know rain.
Karen <email>
Seattle, Wa USA 04/03/04

Re: Lodging in Vienna
Melanie; Check my site for some rec's: http://alexstarke.tripod.com/ We have stayed at all of the places that I list on my links page for Vienna and they are all excellent. If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me through the site.
Alex Starke <email>
Eugene, OR USA 04/03/04

VAT in UK
This link relates to HM Customs and Excise (UK)and matters relating to VAT refunds. http://www.hmce.gov.uk/public/vatrefunds/vatrefunds.htm
Graham <email>
Port Talbot, UK 04/03/04

Accomodation
MARY......you can see the room and should see the room before taking it....if your reservation has been guaranteed with a deposit or credit card you normally can cancel if you do it before the deadline set by the hotel....usually between 3 and 6 pm of the day you reserve for.....check with your specific hotel before you guarantee....usually you can do that by email......be aware that every hotel has different rules.
dotty z
cleveland, oh USA 04/03/04

VAT funds
Jerry.....do a word search for VAT (value added tax) and England.... That should give you all the information you need about refunding.....
Red Marchale
jersey city , nj USA 04/03/04

VAT funds
What exactly is VAT? I keep seeing it in my travel plans for england and have noticed one comment that VAT can be "reimbursed." Is this a customs thing? How can I get my VAT money back? Does it also apply to services such as hotels and car rentals? HELP...and many thanks!
Jerry <email>
MN USA 04/03/04

Versailles and Seine evening cruise
amy — is very easy to do versailles on your own. is only a few blocks from the train station. and you can rent headphones at the booth when you purchase your admission ticket. i have done the seine river cruise without the meal. i purchase the cruise when i was over there.

ca USA 04/02/04

accomodation
The internet has made checking out hotels and making bookings easier. But if I have made a hotel booking, can I ask to see the room before checking in? What if the reservation has been guaranteed with a deposit or credit card?
Mary <email>
Vancouver, Canada 04/02/04

TRAINS IN ITALY
Tristan.... Go to raileurope.com and click on fares and schedules on the left column....on the next page enter the cities you will travel from and to...you will get the fares and the schedules between cities.
VLAD ROSSINI
FRANKLIN, KY USA 04/02/04

Trains in Italy
I am planning a trip to Italy during May and June and I plan on traveling by train. However, the website for train timetables (which would be extremely helpful) seems to be down or something. Does anyone know where I can get this info.? THX!
Tristan <email>
Arvada, CO USA 04/02/04

B& B in Venice
Does anyone have any experience with a B & B in Venice called Ca'Turelli? I'd love to hear about it — I'm thinking of staying there & I'd like some honest info. Thanks
Liz <email>
NJ USA 04/02/04

Dartmoor attractions
I'm spending a few days walking through Dartmoor, and need to either plan a route or choose a city to stay in. What are some of the best monuments, cities, or other sights in the area?
Dave <email>
Strongsville, OH USA 04/02/04

Accomodations in Vienna
I would like to know if anyone has any budget accomodation recommendations in Vienna, Austria. If yes, would you please include your personal opinion on the property. Thank you so much.
Melanie <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA 04/02/04

Kay, Berkeley
Hotel Accademia in Florence is our favorite. Check Rick's book.
martha <email>
castro valley, CA USA 04/02/04

Lindsay, Minn,MN
The BEST place in Florence, is the Hotel Accademia, listed in Rick's book. It is central, reasonable and the staff are outstanding.
Martha <email>
Castro Valley, CA USA 04/02/04

Versailles; Seine evening cruise
Is it easy to do Versailles on your own from Paris, taking the RER and walking to the palace? Any tips? My tour co. wants $80 for this add-on, seems rather expensive. Also, has anybody taken an evening Seine river cruise (without meal)? I'd like to do this, but can't find anything other than expensive dinner cruises. We'll be in Paris in Oct. Thanks, Amy
Amy L. Crossmier <email>
Sanford, FL United States 04/02/04

Amsterdam wine and cheese boat tour
Has anyone taken the night wine and cheese boat ride/tour in Amsterdam? What did you think of it? Did you get to choose red or white? I see two companies for them in guidebooks. We're weighing purchasing this ahead of time vs waiting until we get there. Also, where can we sign up for a nighttime walking tour of the Red Light District once we are there? Thanks, Amy
Amy L. Crossmier <email>
Sanford, FL United States 04/02/04

Flea markets in London, Paris, Amsterdam
In Oct, we will be in London on a Tues, Wed and Thurs. We'll be in Paris on a Sat, Sun and Mon. And we'll be in Amsterdam on a Mon, Tues and Wed. What are the best street markets for those days in those cities? Our budget doesn't allow for fine antiques, we like the used flea-type of markets where we can rummage for interesting stuff. Thanks, Amy
Amy L. Crossmier <email>
Sanford, FL United States 04/02/04

Marie — Romantic Road stops
Marie — Romantic Road: This file has a schedule and the official stop name next to the town (Hbf means main train station.) http://212.63.58.23/hp/010_linie_bild/broschur2003.pdf
Russ <email>
Galt, CA USA 04/02/04

Traveling by (folding) bicycle
I want to bike while I travel in Italy later this year. Specifically, I plan to bring a folding bicycle with me. If anyone on this site has traveled by bike (I want to also use the rail system) — folding bike — any you have any advice to give, please do. Feel free to send me an e-mail message: caseeye@hotmail.com
Rhonda <email>
USA 04/02/04

Athens and the Islands/Recent
We are going to greece in 60 Days I am getting pretty concerned. Both from the political climate and if accomendations are tough to find with all the preparation fronm the Olympics...even though the oly will not be going on while we are there are we going to find it difficult to get around and WING IT.
Mitch <email>

Molalla, Or USA 04/02/04 Cooking Lessons in Italy
I want to take my boyfriend for a cooking lesson in: Rome, Florence or the Cinque Terre. Any great ideas? Thank you!!!
Kristy <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA 04/01/04

ROME HOTEL
Chris....here is a webpage with descriptions and pictures of Farnese.... www.venere.com/cgi/hotels/pgweb.php?htid=20055&ref=4747&affiliate_user_id=0
DOTTY SCHMITZ
RALEIGH, USA 04/01/04

PACKING FOR ITALY IN SEPT.
RUTH....we have been in Rome in Sept and Oct....it didn't rain, but it could...I would take a lite rain jacket or umbrella.....no need for a fleece jacket unless you get cold in 90 degree weather!
RUDY S
KANSAS CITY, KS USA 04/01/04

AL LARUE
MARIE......my guess is that you could get off the bus anywhere you like...just tell the driver and he should oblige.....when you buy your ticket ask the clerk.....I doubt you can find an answer this side of the Atlantic.
L S M
NEW ORLEANS, LA USA 04/01/04

Laptop Travel
Laptop Travel How dangerous would it be to bring along with you a laptop if you're traveling by yourself in the countries of Portugal, Italy, Switzerland and Austria?
Nikolai <email>
San Diego, CA USA 04/01/04

mobile phones
My husband and I plan to travel to the U.K., France and Italy in Sept. and Oct. What I need to know is this. If we purchase a phone card from example pincity.com which was recommended, would we buy one phone that we could use in all three countries once we get to the U.K.? I realize that one needs a triband GSM but I wonder if we purchase just this phone it will work. Has anyone purchased a phone in one of these countries and used it in all 3?
judy buckingham <email>
portland, or USA 04/01/04

packing for Italy in Sept.
My husband and I (58 and 60 yo) will be in Italy (central to Rome) for the month of September. I've read av. temps, but wonder if some of you have been there at that time. Will we need rain jackets? We will be packing light. Fleece jacket?
Ruth <email>
Belleve, WA USA 04/01/04

Al Larue
The web site you offered was very useful and fun to explore. But still, I need to know of where the bus will pick up their passengers and drop them off for the Romantic Road ride. My start location will be from Fussen and I will get off in Rothenburg. But where exactly?? — that is my question. Does anyone have experience/info about this?
Marie <email>
Norwalk, CA USA 04/01/04

tennis in europe
I am traveling with a partner this summer through Spain, France, and Italy. My travel partner and I are avid tennis players and are considering bringing our rackets with us on our travels. Are courts easily accessible in most cities and if they are, is there a charge to use them? Would like some input because I don't want to travel around with my racket attached to my back and nowhere to play!
Juls <email>
El Paso, TX USA 04/01/04

retirement
i am senior man-need very inexpensive place near nice for 2 months to reuperate from illnes-any luck in oct or nov>?please help=thank you
william davis <email>
la jolla , cal USA 04/01/04

Mont St Michel
Can anyone recommend a good day tour out of Bayeux, or Rouen that would allow us to see Mont St. Michel in the evening in October?
Sherry <email>
San Diego, CA USA 04/01/04

Staying inHeidelberg / Overnight Train
Does anyone have any suggestions for places to stay in Heidelberg? Also, will be traveling overnight by train from Florence to Munich — anything special we should know? Am planning on ordering the train tickets through Euro Railways.
Jackie <email>
Edmond, OK USA 04/01/04

Rome Hotel
Looking for information about a hotel in rome called Residenza Farnese. Does anyone know about it? I read it in the sunday travel section of the NY Times last sunday
Chris <email>
lancaster, pa USA 04/01/04

Jesssie — Railpass
Jessie — Rail Pass You are 26 no longer considered elegible for the youth pass.

USA 04/01/04

PARKING HOLLAND
SUSAN....you will find parking as difficult in Holland as it is in Germany....small towns are as crowded as Amsterdam.....you have listed the must see sights...Delft, Leiden, Haarlem ...add Den Haagen, Amsterdam and Rotterdam.....I don't have a favorite windmill museum..you may find parking, but it will be time-consuming unless you use parking lots and parking garages which are expensive ...most of the tourist sights provide parking, but some charge extra....I usually let my passengers out at the gate and find a place to park even though it may be a long walk.
seymour dillarde
sacremento, CA USA 04/01/04

KRAKOW TO BUDAPEST
Sara...call WWW.railpass.com at 800-722-7151 and ask the clerk about stopping a Eger.
WILHELM GOOTZE
DENVER, CO USA 04/01/04

NEED HELP..FIVE DAYS IN GREECE
Soulseven.....if you plan to relax on a Greek island you need more time....we spent a week in Athens and took a 4 hour tour 4 of those days....we stayed busy every day ... there is not a lot of walking involved; so you can rest on the air conditioned busses.....There are a lot of historical sights to see.. ..Corinth, Delphi, Thessoloniki and all the temples in Athens.....If you want more information about what to see in Greece go to www.aroundgreece.com ...there are other pages which will show you pictures of the sights and help you plan your time better...go to "google.com" and search for "Greece sights."....someone can suggest an itinerary for you, but you should do it yourself depending on what your interests are. ...you can stay so busy seeing ALL the sights in 5 days that you won't enjoy it....you have to budget your time....and plan a few hours to rest.
gandy wollock
flushing, ny USA 04/01/04

Krakow to Budapest
Does the overnight train from Krakow to Budapest stop in Eger or Fuzesbony? Or anywhere close to Eger? I don't want to ahve to go all the way to Budapest and then backtrack.
Sara <email>
Morristown, nj USA 04/01/04

rome
has anyone stayed at the Camping Village Tiber in Rome? Also looking for some real cheap bed and breakfast and hotels
carmela livolsi <email>
USA 04/01/04

Need Help: 5.5 days in Greece
My wife and I are spending 2 weeks travelling through Italy (Apr. 30- May 13) and are going to take a Night Boat over to Greece on May 13. We will end up and fly out of Athens on May 19. We originally wanted to see and relax on a couple Cycladic islands although I'm not sure if 5 days is enough time for that, especially if we spend the last day in Athens. As another option I thought it might work out nice to spend a couple days driving around the Pelopones and then taking ferries to a couple Saronic Gulf islands. All this being said, I don't know much about Greece. This will be our first time so I could use some practical advice/wisdom. Could anyone suggest a good 5 day itinerary for us? We will be pretty tired out from a rigorous 2 week trek through Italy, so in Greece we would like to chill a bit on the beach, maybe do some hiking and take in some local culture as well. I could also use some advice on the Italy > Greece ferries. We'll be hopping from Naples to either Bari or Brindisi onto Patras. Looks like Naples > Bari > Patras is the quickest, right? Thanks so much:)
Soulseven <email>
MPLS, MN USA 04/01/04

Travelers' Helpline Archives: April 2004

Travelers' Helpline Archives:
April 2004