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Travelers' Helpline Archives:
July 2004

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Canine and Feline in Italy
I am a Grad. student leaving to study in Florence in a month. I am taking my dog and cat. (I plan to live there for 2yrs or more) Looking for any info/resources on pet-friendly living options, travel tips, laws and anything I can do to prepare, etc.
Catherine Tone <email>
Des Moines, Iowa   USA   Sat 07/31/2004

single Mom travelling
Kym, I am divorced and have travelled extensively in Europe, both with my children and even alone one time. I have never encountered any problems at all. I would suggest that your daughters dress modestly and not look men directly in the eye unless they want to be approached! Just relax, and be careful and you will be fine. I always give my children one of the hotel's cards to carry with them in case we get separated.

  USA   Sat 07/31/2004

Eastern Europe Summer Weather
Am interested in what the weather is like in Eastern Europe in the summertime, would the weather be better in early June or late August in Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Slovenia, and Croatia? When is their rainy season and when does it start to get cool in the fall?
John <email>
Denver, CO   USA   Sat 07/31/2004

Bologna airport hotel
I am flying out of Bologna at 6:30am and wondered if there is a hotel by the airport? the first bus from town is 5:30, too late for my flight.
barb <email>
  USA   Sat 07/31/2004

I am flying out of Bologna at 6:15 a.m. and wondered if there is a hotel by the airport? The first bus from town is 5:30 am. Too late for my flight.

  USA   Sat 07/31/2004

Grand Canal Vaporetto
Does anyone know if there is a vaporetto line that goes from TRONCHETTO parking lot — down the Grand Canal (not Giudecca Canal) — and stops at San Zaccaria? What line number is it? Thank you.
Kathy <email>
san carlos, CA   USA   Sat 07/31/2004

Tips needed for visiting Spanish family
Does anyone know of a book on Spanish customs and manners? We will be staying with our foreign exchange student's family near Madrid and would like any suggestions on being the best possible guests. Also, can anyone suggest gifts we can bring from America that Spanish families would especially appreciate? The year with our Spanish daughter was amazing and we would like to show our appreciation to her and her wonderful family when we visit. Thanks for any help!
Terry <email>
Peru, IN   USA   Sat 07/31/2004

Re D-Day Beaches
Bob First of all you have basically 2 choices: Getting a tour out of Caen or Bayeux. I highly reccomend using Victory Tours out of Bayeux. It is a very personal tour run by Roel Klinkhammer. Roel, a retired gentleman from Holland (very fluent in English) offers a 4 hour or an 8 hour tour. The cost for 3 of us was around 105 Euro. He has a van that seats no more than 8. Since we had our 14 year old with us, we chose the 4 hour tour. We actually spent about 5 hours. He even stopped along the way at a farm that makes Calvados (what a treat). There is a web site. It is: www.lignerolles.homestead.com If you have any further questions...please let me know! I did a lot of research on this and read many reviews from folks on this web site. Rick even mentions this as one of the touors in his France 2004 Guide. Oh, one more thing...you will love Honfleur! Stayed at Madame Giaglis B & B...a true delight!
Steven <email>
Cincinnati, OH   USA   Sat 07/31/2004

Loire to Dordogne
Hedy~~~~taking the train is always easier because the engineer knows where he is going.~~~~ When you drive you have to make the decisions.~~~~ If you mean is it cheaper?~~~~ Or is it faster? Then you have a different question. 3. Driving yourself is always more convenient because you can leave when you want to and stop where you want to~~~~ Taking the train locks you into a time schedule that may not be convenient. And it is far more boring~~~~~ I have always found deciding to rent a car to drive always depends on cost which is always higher than travel by rail~~~~ Cost should be your prime concern. If you rent a car be sure to get a diesel; fuel costs less per gallon and you get better mileage.
Rodenbury
Berline, NY   USA   Sat 07/31/2004

Sim Cards
Sunny T., You may want to go to the website at telestial.com. The information there should answer your question. My wife and I were in Germany and Austria in June and found the convenience of having a GSM phone was well worth the cost. We rented a car for the two plus weeks and with medical issues with family members back home the phone gave us peace of mind that we could be reached at anytime for emergencies. Also, the sim phones are great for making reservations for your next destination as you are traveling. Lane C.
Lane Clark
  USA   Sat 07/31/2004

D-Day Beaches
We'll be in Honfleur on Oct. 1 and are looking for a one day tour to the D-Day beaches, etc. that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. Can anyone help?
Bob <email>
Charlotte, NC   USA   Sat 07/31/2004

Single parent travel
I am a widow with 2 teen girls 13 and 15. We are planning on a trip of at least 2 weeks in the summer of 2005. I wondered if anyone in my situation had tips/experiences/advice/precautions for a single woman traveling with teens. We have been boning up by reading Rick's Travel Skills and individual trip outlines but none really address the single parent aspect. Thanks!
Kym <email>
Ash Grove, MO   USA   Sat 07/31/2004

ATMs
I have used ATMs all over the world. The only place I have ever had trouble with them working is in Japan. Their machines do not recognize our cards. I had trouble in Italy once, but it was because the teller at the credit union told me I could withdraw money from savings or checking from an ATM, and so I did not transfer money to my checking acct. before leaving. The machines here in US will let you transfer money, but the machines in Europe will not. I always take a second card from a different bank when I leave the country. I also put $100 underneath the lining in my shoe. I think $100 will buy me out of trouble most places in the world. Makes me feel secure, anyway!
Marty
  USA   Sat 07/31/2004

LUGGAGE DILEMNA
Hi guys, I am new to this board, need to buy some new luggage, and am looking for advice from real travellers! I did my best to read the postings in this category before asking dumb questions, but there are a LOT of postings, so forgive me if the subject is being revisited pls. First I've loved travelling to Ireland, India, around the US and the Caribbean (all on a budget of course) and pretty much will travel anywhere as often as we can afford it...I love flying, driving, cruising, and trains; so I am definitely a variety traveller. Also, I'm an unashamed overpacker working to pare down, but only slightly...I'll never be one who travels with 1/2 the underwear I'll need or wears a shirt 3 times per trip. No offense to those who enjoy that style, but I love clothes and changing them anytime I am feeling or looking wilted. I hope there are some here who relate...I travel with makeup and hair products (not a trunkload but we generally go dressy casual at the least for dinner) Our debate is buying several individual suitcases/carryons vs a set. Sets don't seem to give you what you really need, but cost is prohibitive when buying individual pieces for both myself and new hubby. Even cutting back we'll prob each travel with a bag and a carryon. My previous inclination had been bigger is better, but I have experienced what you all have been saying about large bags and their unwieldiness, so maybe we should get smaller pieces or share one larger? Anyone have advice, preferably on rolling styles rather than backpack? Additionally, we definitely need a joint toiletry bag and I know I want the hanging style to save counter space and keep everythign organized, but all the choices out there are making my head spin. Ideally I think I'd like a bag that hangs and also has a big enough pocket at the bottom for hairdryer, flatiron, etc (ALL bathroom accessories in one place) but I'd like a zip out/pull out waterproof pack for the things needed in the shower as opposed to dental, qtips, etc which can hang by the sink. The only toiletry bag I have seen recommended on this site is the Bagallini — is that primarily size related or are there other reasons for this preference? I'm interested in it except even travel sized shampoos and such don't look like they would fit in the flat pockets, and it seems like I'd need a second bag for those things. I hope I am not being to convoluted, but is there anyone who can understand my dilemna and offer some advice?
Courtney <email>
TN   USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Chocolate
I would like to take the chocolate factory tour in Perugia. Does anyone know how far the factory is from the train station? Thank You
JJ
VA   USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Transportation in Paris
The Paris 2004 guidebook says, "the Roissy bus and Metro combination is the most convenient public transport route (from Charles de Gaulle Airport) to rue Cler area hotels." Where do I connect with the Metro and which line do I take?
Kathaleen Lang <email>
Pembroke Pines, FL   USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Electric plugs/outlets in Italy
While in Venice last year, our hairdryer decided to die. (as it later turned out, it was merely suffering from jet lag). Anyway, we purchased one from a fairly large shop on a main street, choosing the slightly cheaper one of the 2 available. Looked the same, just different brands. The man at the counter plugged it in before we paid for it, and it worked. When we got back to the hotel, it didn't work — the prongs are the same distance apart, but fatter, and wouldn't go into the outlet. For 14 euros, it wasn't worth trying to return, so we kept it as a souvenir, hoping it would work at the apartment in Tuscany the following week. (It didn't, but luckily ours had recovered). Can anyone explain why this plug is different? The writing on the box and the directions are all in Italian, but it doesn't look like it's old. And how did it work in the shop?! Thanks.
Madeline <email>
Malvern, PA   USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Is Nuova Venier glass factory really a scam?
has anyone received the glass that they purchased from the Nuova Venier glass factory? While researching the artists who created the glass that I "thought" I purchased, I just read the entries in your site regarding consumer fraud and the Nuova Venier glass factory. http://www.ricksteves.com/graffiti/archives/scams2002.htm and http://www.ricksteves.com/graffiti/archives/factorytours.htm I've just returned from Italy and had purchased a vase and a sculpture at the Nuova Venier glass factory in Murano. They have already have close to $6,000.00 on my Visa card, plus $500.00 U.S. cash as a down payment and are expecting me to send them a $6000.00 personal check this week to complete the payment. When they receive the check they will send the two items. After finding your articles, I'm now afraid to send the additional check. Do I trust fate and hope that they will actually send the glass? Do I have any recourse? How can I find out if these people will actually come through? Any advise would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! LH
Lornetta Hooks <email>
River Forest, IL   USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Champs de Mars
Thanks, Robin, for the Champs de Mars e-mail address, and to the others for their thoughts on the hotel.
Janet
  USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Music in Florence
We'd like to hear some classical/renaissance/choral music in Florence, preferably as part of a church service on a Sunday in November. Can anyone recommend a church?
Lyn <email>
Encinitas, CA   USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Budget Airline to Sicily
Two couples are travelling to Italy in February 2005.After Carnivale in Venice,we would like to fly a budget airline to Sicily, rent car for a couple of nights and then go to Sorrento for a couple of nights. Is it practical to rent a car in ,say, Catania (or somewhere in Sicily)and drop it off in Sorrento? Any experience with an airline to Sicily in Winter? Gracias,and Ciao, E-mail: JefeRMRM@MSN.COM
Rueben Machado <email>
San Antonio, Texas   USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Lake Como and the Dolomites
I plan to travel to Italy in mid-November and would like to visit Varenna and the Dolomite area. Is it worth the effort to visit these area this time of the year?
Jim <email>
Denver, N.C.   USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Champ de Mars Hotel Paris
We have stayed at the Champ du Mars twice. First time we asked for a Large Double with Large Bed. Room was very nice size and bed was equivalent of our Queen beds. Second time I neglected to specify LARGE and we got a room that was literally 1/3 smaller with a bed that was slightly smaller than our Double beds. The Large rooms are actually three of the regular doubles turned into two rooms. Though we were a little disappointed last time we still think the hotel is a great buy and will stay there again...but will specify LARGE double room!
Tom
Duluth, GA   USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Northern Germany
Looking for any travel tips for the areas of Hamburg, Kiel, and the island of Fehmarn. We will be there in September and need lodging suggestions.
Helen Baumgartel <email>
Canton, MI   USA   Fri 07/30/2004

Hotel Champs de Mars, Paris
We were a little disappointed with the Hotel Champs de Mars in Paris. The rooms are very small and the single beds we had were honestly only two feet wide. I could barely stay on it. Maybe we just got a "bad" room but I would not stay there again.

  USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Reservations for Le Jules Verne
Hi Stephanie, We made our reservations as far ahead as possible (one in May and one in October). You can either fax them direct, or request your hotel to do it for you. When you contact them they will want to know where you are staying (maybe to let them know you are serious in your request). We've only been there for lunch: first time in the room facing Notre Dame etc. (the best in my opinion) and the second time in the other room with views toward La Defense. If you would like a table by the window with a view toward Notre Dame be sure and request it at the time of your reservation. You can either chose the fixed menue or a la carte. Enjoy!
Devra <email>
Lake Forest, CA   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Stansted Express
Jamie ~ Stansted airport has the Stansted express, it makes a stop at Liverpool Station then on to Victoria Station. Like Scott says there isn't one best place to stay in London. You can get to all the sight very easy using the tube (undergrount). To get to Heathrow Airport you could go to Paddington Station and the the Heathrow express or if you don't have much luggage you can take the tube from Earl's Court to Heathrow for 3.80BP. The Kensington South, Sloane Square are great area's to stay. Also, Blades hotel in Bayswater.
Robin <email>
Oh   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Email address
Jant ~ email address for Hotel du Champs de Mars is stge@club-internet.com
Robin <email>
Oh   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Champs de Mars — in Paris
Oops. I forgot to say in my previous posting that Hotel du Champs de Mars is in Paris.
Janet
  USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Hotel du Champs de Mars e-mail
Hello: Does anyone know if Hotel du Champs de Mars has an e-mail address, and if so, what that address is? (I can't find it on their web site.)
Janet
  USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Loire to Dordogne — is it easier to drive or take the train?
We will be visiting France in October. Will be visiting the Loire Valley (home base: Amboise) and the Dordogne (home base: Sarlat) area. When we travel from Amboise to Sarlat, would it be easier to drive or take the train? I know we will need a car at least part of the time in each region.
Hedy Chan <email>
San Jose, CA   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

cell phone SIM cards
Will be travelling to Holland, Belgium and France and bringing a cell phone.Do I need to buy a separate SIM card for each country ? For the SIM card I will be buying from Holland,will it work in other countries? I will be only calling within Europe,not overseas.
Sunny T. <email>
Vancouver, B.C.   Canada   Thu 07/29/2004

Alps in May
If you plan on doing any hiking wait until July. We were there in mid-June and a lot of the high trails were snowed in.
Jeff <email>
Bend, OR   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Erica in Scranton
If you will go to the right hand column on the homepage you will find everything you need under the European Railpasses heading.
Jeff <email>
Bend, OR   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Reservations for Le Jules Verne
How far in advance would it be wise to make reservations for Le Jules Verne?
Stephanie <email>
Seattle, wa   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Italy travel
My husband and I are planning a trip to Italy in May 2005 and want to know the Eurail passes work? We will be getting the youth pass as we are under 26. But are they worthwhile and what trains are they good for? Do you have to pay any extra on top of the rail pass cost? Also if we could see only one thing in Italy what would that be? Thank you so much!
Erica <email>
Scranton, PA   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Renfe night train options
Hello, I want to buy night train tickets from Barcelona to Madrid. The renfe webiste gives me five options: 1) Tourist 2) FirstIndiv 3)FirstDouble 4) DeluxeIndiv 5) DelexeDouble. What are the differences?
JMS <email>
CA   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Currency at ATMs
ATMs give cash in the currency of the country in which they are located. Euros for France and Italy. Swiss francs for Switzerland.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

ATM Question
OK — This is a very basic question. Do ATM machines in Italy and France give the cash in euros? What about Switzerland, which I understand doesn't use euros?
TT
Seattle,    USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Accommodations in Slovenia
I need help find an apartment to rent in Slovenia, specifically in either Ljubljana or Bled. I can't find any good sites and the Slovenia Tourist web site wasn't helpful. Thanks
William Klein <email>
Milwaukee, WI   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Re: Swiss Alps in May
We stayed in Murren in mid-May and loved it. Many stores were closed, but we weren't there to shop — we spent all of our time hiking. The trail up to the Shilthorn was still snowed in, but there were plenty of other areas to explore. We loved that the town wasn't crowded, and there were plenty of restaurants open. We may have been lucky with the weather, but we hiked in shorts and were in pants in the evenings.
Julie <email>
Durham, NC   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

SWISS ALPS IN MAY
KIRK~~~~IF you like cold weather, May is a good month in the Alps; however if you prefer mild (cool) weather, go in June~~~~ Some places won’t be open in June!~~~ But there will enough of them open to make travel practical.
Harborite
Tulsa, OK   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

cell phone rental
I need to bring a cell phone. Which rental services did you use for France? What was the cost (rates..)?
anna <email>
Burlingame, ca   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Swiss Alps in May
I am planning a trip to Bavaria and the Swiss Alps, specifically the Berner-Oberland region. I am planning to go in May, but all of the research I have completed suggests May is a bad month for the Alps as everything is closed. Is this correct? Would early June be a better option?
Kirk <email>
Bham, AL   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Realistic costs of travel
Jamie, My husband and I recently returned from a 3 week trip to France. We stayed in B&Bs and small hotels which included breakfast. We usually bought food in supermarkets for lunch and ate all dinners out. We often got the fixed price meals and wine.

We leased a car. We traveled through wonderful countryside in Dordogne, Pays Basque, Provence etc. but did not stay in any big cities (done that). We were lucky to be able to catch good flight deals (purchased in February for May/June flights) from Pa to Marseilles. Like the other poster said you need to start checking airlines several months in advance and sign up with them for notifications of sales. The sale we hit only lasted about 8 hours.

Anyway we had a wonderful trip and the total cost for 3 weeks for 2 people all inclusive was $4800. Hope this helps.
pat
pa   USA   Thu 07/29/2004

Jaime — airport transport
http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/vlt_airport.shtml The paddington/bayswater area has a lot of affordable hotels and paddington station will take you right to heathrow on the heathrow express train. This area is centrally located for siteseeing (since london is fairly spread out there is no one "perfect" place to stay). I would stay here if i was in your shoes.
scott
london,    UK   Thu 07/29/2004

I am planning to honeymoon in Europe in October and I am confused about the way the eurorail pass works. If we take an overnight train and there are four stops along the way do I have to change trains all night long?

NY   USA   Wed 07/28/2004

CINQUE TERRE ROOMS
Jamie..these pages will help: www.venere.com/site/index.php?lg=en&geoid=26992&ref=3908 and www.levanto.net/rentals/index.htm
JACOB
ST LOUIS, MO   USA   Wed 07/28/2004

London Issues????
We fly into stansted airport in england in the evening- we fly out of heathrow 2 days later. What is the best plan of attack for locations to stay in these nights. Is there a train from STN airport right into downtown London? What is the best area to stay in in London for sight seeing? How far is Heathrow from this best location? Is it best to take a train, taxi or subway for this travel between STN-London-LHR??? PLS HElP
Jamie <email>
orange, ca   USA   Wed 07/28/2004

Cinqure terre rooms
Does anyone have any great suggestions for a double room in Monterosso Cinque terre for my husband and I. It seems like evrything I have found has required that I call. Is there a good site with cinqueterre reviews, pictures and actual online bookings for these accomidations?
Jamie <email>
orange, ca   USA   Wed 07/28/2004

EuroRail for 5 days — R. Rodriguez
You said, "Don't buy tickets before you go...". In general I would agree, but it is not always true. A nine hour trip from Frankfurt to Salzburg is 28 Euro plus the fare from Frankfurt to the Bavarian border with a Bayern ticket, 58 Euro with normal fare. A six hour trip by ICE is 82 Euro at the counter, but you can get it for 29 Euro online before you go. Sometimes it pays to buy before you go.
Larry <email>
Littleton, CO   USA   Wed 07/28/2004

EuroRail for 5 day Germany Austria Visit
S Deo~~~For 5 days I bought point-to-point tickets because the passes were too expensive. Forget the passes. You will be surprised at the low cost of individual rail fares. Check raileurope.com and click on “fares and schedules.” You can find fares for each leg of your jouney.

Add the fare from Frankfurt to Salzburg and the fare from Salzburg to Vienna and the fare from Vienna to Frankfurt. Get the total and compare with any passes you are considering.

Don’t buy tickets before you go; wait until the day before you travel to buy; go to the RR station and buy them; ask for a printed itinerary which will show departure and arrival times, train numbers and platform and also any train changes you will make. Second class fare in the countries you will be in will be adequate; you wont need first class.
R Rodriguez
El Paso, TX   USA   Wed 07/28/2004

Jacqui — realistic cost of European travel
This question is like asking how much it costs to visit the US...it varies greatly depending on which countries in your list you visit, city vs. countryside locations, how much you travel around, etc. Unfortunately, as you know, the weak dollar is not good for european travel right now. From my experience, figure on the following as a very, very general guide- at least $80-100/night for a b&b or cheap hotel. Food in restaurants = $30-40/day per person at the very minimum. Train travel = too many variables to say. admissions and transport also hard to say. For countries, France is generally the cheapest (varies greatly though from city to countryside to coast, etc). Scandanavia, of course is the most expensive.

For the best use of your dollar, consider staying in one or two places as a base for the duration (minimum of a week each) of your vacation. This way you can rent an apartment for a week or two and save on travel, hotel and food (as you can cook some meals). Doing a multi-country/city vacation staying short term in hotels will eat up your dollar very fast considering today's exchange rate. inter-country train or plane journeys can be very expensive. If you stay in one area, you get to know it in more depth and can relax more as travelling around a lot can be tiring and stressful. Shopping in a european market and cooking your own food is one of my favorite things to do. Food in the market (especially "farmer" type markets) can be very cheap and very good. Don't worry to much about choosing a "boring" area. Living a typical european lifestyle in a village for a week or two can be very fun and not so expensive. doing day trips from that base can also be fairly economical and add some variety. Cost of an apartment for a week is very difficult to generalize. but maybe something like, $400-500 per week minimum.
scott
london,    UK   Wed 07/28/2004

FALL AUSTRIA TRAVEL
Madeline>>>>>We have been to Europe 10 times in Oct and Nov...you wont see any difference in weather in Austria. The higher you go in the Alps, the cooler the weather; so you may want to travel that area first. If you find Nov cheaper, go then. Don’t pay extra to go in Oct. Take a jacket and layer your clothing.
OSCAR
AMHURST, NJ   USA   Wed 07/28/2004

REALISTIC COST OF EUROPEAN TRAVEL
Jacquie~~~~~I have traveled to Europe for over 20 years and find that every year it gets more expensive to go. As a result I have changed my habits; I don’t stay in hotels. My wife and I stay in homes, zimmer freis, B&Bs, hostels and motels. Most will give you a free breakfast where we make sanwiches for lunch and take with us. In France you will find Formule1 which are economy priced motels, but toilets and showers are down the hall. We like them. You can find the webpage at hotelformule1.com/formule1/index.

We always snack at lunch and dine out at dinner. Finding a discounted air fare is the difficult part of your trip. Read Graffiti Wall section on “Flying to Europe.” and “Flying within Europe.” You can benefit from the experience of others in shopping. I usually select 3 or 4 airlines flying from my departure city to my destination. I start calling each of them daily about 3 months in advance. If you call every day and ask the agent for the lowest air fare available the week of Oct 10 to 16, you will find the fares varying every day or every few days, depending on the number of seats available on each plane. Sear prices are reduced at midnight; so calling after that time will help. You must allow time and be patient. When you find the lowest fare, grab it because it will not be there tomorrow.

Estimating your costs will depend on how you live and how you travel in Europe. Add all the air fares or train fares while in Europe to your housing cost (estimate $50 to $100 a day) plus your guess for food. Restaurant meals will cost about the same as you would pay here. Forget about drinks and deserts with your meals. Buy bottled water in the supermarkets and carry it with you. We spent 2 weeks in Scandinavia last year and found all expenses about above the rest of Europe.
S SMITH
NEW LONDON, CONN   USA   Wed 07/28/2004

S Deo / Frankfurt Vienna trip
I don't know of a German-Austria pass. All the other Eurail passes are based on 1st class and too many days to be economical for your situation. I would agree you should buy tickets there vs. a rail pass, but there are some good deals if you buy your ticket online before you go. You can print out the ticket on any inkjet or laser printer.

You don't say how many people or what days of the week you are traveling. Will you be arriving at FRA (what time) and leaving directly for Salzburg, or will you already be in Frankfurt. Taking the train, even an ICE, which takes 6 hours to Salzburg will make for an awfully long day for someone with jetlag. Local trains, which you will have to use with a Bayern ticket, will take 9 hours to Salzburg.

I usually recommend the Länder tickets, but in this case I don't think I would. Deutsche Bahn is running some summer specials, through August at least, and if you look at their website, you can find one way from either FRA or Frankfurt Hbf to Salzburg for 29 Euro. This is for a 3 day advance purchace, but you can do it online with a credit card. It really makes sense if you are traveling alone, because you don't have to pay std fare from Frankfurt to the Bavarian border on top of the 28 Euro Bayern ticket.

As for the CityNightLine, the 59 Euro price is for online purchase, similar to with Deutsche Bahn. At the counter it will be 79 Euro. Either place, for MoTuWe travel, you might find a SparNight fare for 29 Euro. You would have a much better chance online than on the day of travel. That fare is for a reclining seat. There are also couchettes available for a higher price.
Larry <email>
Littleton,    USA   Wed 07/28/2004

Realistic Cost of European Travel
Husband and I would like to travel to Europe in October 2005. Either France, Belgium, Netherlands or Scandinavia. Or some combination of the above. What should we realistically figure as a ballpark cost for both of us, with airfare and hotel (of B&B). Have done some preliminary checking into flights and frankly, have been amazed at the expense. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Jacquie <email>
Tampa, FL   USA   Wed 07/28/2004

Diaper Changing Help
We will be traveling in both Eastern & Western Europe in winter. Are there diaper changing tables or something else available? With the cold, we obviously can't change diapers outside and our stroller won't work for changes.
Sylvia <email>
Cheyenne, WY   USA   Wed 07/28/2004

Anzio
I will be visiting Rome in October and would like to visit the WWII invasion site at Anzio. Can anybody recommend a tour guide for a daytrip?
Laura <email>
Brooksville, FL   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

horseback riding in italy
Hi! Leaving soon for Italy and I wonder if anyone has gone horseback riding there — not for more than a day. Possibly Tuscany, or wherever... Contacts appreciated. Grazie! Mari
mari knowles <email>
seattle, wa   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

Austria in the Autumn
to Madeline regarding Austria in Oct or Nov. I would strongly consider mid Oct. The weather can be and probably will be quite delightful in October. I have been there in October and the leaves alone are worth the extra $$ Email me if you would like any adsitional info. I will be traveling to Slovenia and Croatia during the last of OCtober and am hoping for good weather then. the southern slopes of the Alps should be a little warmer than Austria
Jim Todd <email>
Dalton , GA   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

Notebook Insurance for Europe
Anybody have any recommendations for a reliable insurance company that will insure notebook computers and digital cameras for a trip to europe?
Alex Starke <email>
Eugene, OR   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

Our Lady of Nazare Festival
"Our Lady of Nazare Festival" in Nazare, Portugal — When are the exact dates for this? (early to mid September) Thanks
c. macnairn <email>
seattle, wa   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

Fall 2004 Austria travel
We are planning a trip to Austria (Vienna, Salzburg, one of the wine-growing regions) this fall. We're on the fence about whether we should go in October or November. November is apparently cheaper, but October is warmer and there seem to be more sights that are open then. Any suggestions? Is it worth the additional $150 or more in air fare to go in October? Thanks in advance.
Madeline <email>
Atlanta, GA   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

S Deo / Frankfurt-Vienna trip
You will probably save money by buying regularly-priced tickets once you arrive. I just did a quick search for the roundtrip fare you described at www.bahn.de. Fare for two at the regular price was approximately 335 Euros. You might also look into the City Night Line specials — I think you can ride the Donau-Kurier between Vienna and Frankfurt round trip for 59 Euros: www.elca-services.ch/v3b/citynightline/

It is also possible to get regular tickets for Salzburg-Wien-Salzburg and to travel between Kahl (just east of Frankfurt) and Salzburg on a "Bayern Ticket", which covers up to 5 people for a grand total of 28 Euros. However, you must use only the local trains (the bahn site allows you to schedule this option) so there will be several changes of train and the trip may take twice as long. It's a very cheap way to go if you have the time.
Russ <email>
Galt, CA   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

Pensione Guerratino
Pensione Guerratino: anyone here stay upstairs? Lots of good recs on sibling Guerrato....
doug <email>
honolulu, hi   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

EuroRail for 5 day Germany-Austria visit,
Which is the most economic euro rail pass to buy if I want to follow this itinerary — Frankfurt — Salzburg -Vienna -Frankfurt. This is in a 5 day duration. From my research so far I found out that I would ahve to buy a German pass and Austria pass which I think is exorbitant for a 5 day trip to Germany-Austria.Can someone suggest a better way? ?Is there a Germany-Austria combo pass???
S Deo <email>
LA, CA   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

Susan — Biking in Amsterdam
MacBike Rentals sells maps with suggestetd routes for 1 Euro. There is one up & down the Amstel and one through the countryside to the north (entitiled something like "Great Waterland Tour"). They have several locations, including Centraal.
Jacqui
Boulder, CO   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

INTER COUNTRY TRAVEL ON ALPI EAGLES
Nicole~~~~~Read comments in Graffiti Wall section “Transportation” then click on “Flying within Europe”. You will find lots of discount lines discussed. If you find an answer to your question and the fares are not given, Email that person and ask your questions.
McWilliams
St Louis, MO   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

USING ATM CARDS IN EUROPE
I read all these questions and comments on using ATMs in Europe and wonder why so many have problems using their cards. My card is issued by Guaranty Bank in Dallas. On the back are listed the following systems: Cirrus, Pulse and Star. I have used it in 13 countries, including Russia and Thailand without trouble. My suggestion is that you who have trouble using your card, find a bank which issues a card showing at least one of those systems on the back.
LAMAR
DALLAS, TX   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

Wine tour from Siena
My daughter and I took an all-day wine tour from Siena last fall. I think it cost around $60 per person. The tourist bureau in Siena had a brochure on it. We had a really great time.
Sherry <email>
SD, CA   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

RE: Gifts to Europe
I cannot imagine that you would have problems bringing a bottle of wine into a European country. I have brought many bottles back the other way, and US Customs tends to be much more strict. One bottle must be under any limit (A case may be an issue). I suggest you put it in your carry on; they will check it closely in the US when you go through security. Upon arrival, the most screening you get is a passport check, just don't "declare" anything to avoid the hassles, assume you are OK.
Paul <email>
IA   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

Civitavecchia to Roma
Brenda: Trains between Civitavecchia and Roma Termini (Rome’s main train station) are frequent (every 15 minutes or so, as I recall), cheap (E4.10 – E13, depending on class, and the type of train) and pretty quick (about an hour.) It’s been 10 years since I took a ship from Civitavecchia, but as I recall, the train station was a very short walk from the water. For a full schedule of trains the day you will be traveling, go to www.trenitalia.com.
Angela
Lexington, KY   USA   Tue 07/27/2004

Mosquitos on Lake Como
Are mosquitos a worry on Lake Como in August? Any non-DEET remedies for combatting them? THANKS!
cal <email>
Portland, OR   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Places to stay in Paris & Zermatt
My wife and I will be going to Europe in September. Is there anybody whom can give good recommendations on places to stay in Paris close to the sites and in Zermatt? B&B, small hotel? Any help would be great.
Bill Scott <email>
Boise, ID   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Any Problems Taking Gifts to Europe?
I'm taking gifts to friends in Germany (Flying Philly-Heathrow-Zurich w/train ride to Konstanz). Will I have problems at the airport taking a bottle of vino for the family patriarch? Is there is dollar limit?
Bernadette Dean <email>
Moorestown, NJ   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

inter country travel on alpi eagles
I am looking to fly from venice to naples on alpi eagles, does anyone have any comments or experiences they can share about this airline? thanks
Nicole McNeal <email>
san carlos, ca   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

For JS-CA re: Pensions/Zimmers in Lake Constance
We have friends in Konstanz we'll be visiting 8/12-8/22. I'll email them for places to stay in your price range — will post them as soon as I get a response.
Bernadette Dean <email>
Moorestown, NJ   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Need Reservation in Italy
Marc, definitely make reservations in advance. September is still a very busy time in Italy and you will be able to enjoy your time much more if you are not spending it trying to find a room. For your visit to the Cinque Terre, particularly if you wish to stay in Vernazza, you must make reservations first. It has become so popular that just showing up and seeking out a room is very risky. Buon Viaggio
Nancy
Sacramento, CA   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

hotel suggestions
I would appreciate hotel suggestons for Venice, Paris, and London. Thanks in advance! Going for our honeymoon Sept 28-Oct 21. Do I need to make reservations for the Cinque Terre for that time frame...or will we be OK to wait and see the rooms first? thanks!
Dana Wilson <email>
Seattle, Wa   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

ATM's in Germany and Austria
I was in Europe in early July 04 and I had no problems using both my credit union and Union Bank's ATM. ATM's are everywhere!!! Also I left the USA with only my first night in Frankfurt under a reservation. I would do that again!! Can't wait for next year's trip to Ireland!!!
david
o'side, ca   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Civitavecchia to Rome
We will disembarking in Civitavecchia and plan to visit Rome.Any suggestions for transfers to Rome?
Brenda <email>
Victoria, BC,    CA   Mon 07/26/2004

Wine Tours in Italy
Does anyone know of any group wine tasting tours in Italy that are ran out of Sienna? Private tours are very expensive, but there must be 1 day group tours out there somewhere. Help?
Alta <email>
Long Beach, CA   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Re: Reservations
I'll voice my opinion for the compromise plan of reservations. Definitely first night(or more if in same place). Highly recommended for major cities if you want to stay in a particular area (Say the Rue Cler area of Paris, or anywhere in Venice) especially during busy times. Otherwise try to leave un-reserved nights between major destinations to allow flex and finding unexpected treasures. We always found a place to sleep with little looking. I do recommend that you leave home with a list of places for each of the areas you intend to be. We have alot of luck calling a day or two ahead as we know our plans, but we still like to explore and try to find places on the spot.
Paul <email>
IA   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Just back from 17 days in Europe
just back from 17 days in Europe — a few pointers ...
1) terrorism alerts in Paris caused periodic shutdowns of certain Metro lines; announcement made in French and franglish, train stops at a stop, agents outside train & everyone has to get off, lights go off — can be a bit disconcerting also massive military w/ machine gun presence around Eiffel Tower
2) pickpocketed in Paris on train — husband DID NOT put wallet in neck purse but had in front pocket, grabbed the guy's hand as it went in his front pocket but wallet was gone before he could drag the guy off the train but police/prefect's office very helpful (free calls to credit card companies provided)
3) no A/C anywhere in Paris hotels — be prepared for heat — we weren't prepared enough
4) highly recommend the Kroller-Mueller in Arnhem but watch the open drug use in the pubs in the evening if with a family (& very rough treatment by police of offenders)
5) we got caught routing ourselves from Salzburg to Basel on a train that went into Germany but Germany was not one of the countries we had on our Eurail (our travel agent screwed this up royally) — agent on train allowed us to stay but we had to re-route to save a costly additional country fee but instead only paid to get back to the border
6) 1st class Eurail is NOT worth the additional money — we had no smoking/plenty of seating in 2nd class and
7) DO NOT BELIEVE your bank when they tell you your ATM card will work in Europe — we had repeated assurances our PLUS ATM would work but it NEVER did (Austria, Switz, Germany, France, Netherlands) and found out later that the credit union had never had a member take their card to Europe and to make it work would have taken up to 30 days to make the software change on their end. We luckily had a Visa card that worked (cash advance) and could go to Amex. Also DO NOT take Amex travellers checks — many I met in the Amex office in Paris were there cashing their travellers checks b/c none of the hotels in Paris would take them and/or cash them.

Had great fun in spite of problems though! Jenny
Jenny <email>
Columbus, OH   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Florence Airport
Lyn in Encinitas, CA~~~~We were in Florence in May and had a very early flight to London. Our hotel called the taxi the night before. It is apparently necessary to do this if you need a taxi real early. It was a very short ride to the airport with no traffic — a small and easy to check in airport. It cost about $15. We did not inquire about a shuttle service. Good luck!
Susan <email>
Ga   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Reservations in Italy
Marc: In half a dozen trips to Italy, the only times I have made reservations for more than the first night have been when I have been traveling with large parties (6 one time, 8 another.) You don’t say how many of you there will be, but if it is just 2 or 3, I absolutely would not make reservations for the entire trip. You shouldn’t have trouble finding rooms. Traveling without reservations gives you the freedom to ditch your itinerary, and change plans if you so choose. On every reservation-free trip I have made, I have ended up either lengthening my stay in a city that I particularly loved, or staying in a town I’d barely heard of (and had no real plans to stay in) before leaving home.
Angela
Lexington, KY   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Reserve before you go!
Marc, I would go with reservations. I have never had a problem getting a nice place (reasonable) to stay using the internet or recommendations from this site. I can recommend nice places in Rome and Venice so if you need help there, just write me.
Kay <email>
Tn   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

B&B in Iceland
On our return from London via Icelandair in May we stayed a night at the B&B Guesthouse in Keflavik. Very clean,safe,and reasonably priced. The owner Svala collected us at the airport and even drove us to "The Blue Lagoon" The B&B is 5 min. from the airport and about 30 min. from Reykjavik.
Michael
Rossburg, Ooh   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Pension,Zimmers in Lake Constance Germany needed
Looking for lodging at less than $80 per night for 2 in this area. Pref. Lindau or other nice nearby town in Germany on the main train route.Leaving soon in Aug. Thanks in Advance
JS <email>
CA   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Hotel in Gozo, Malta
I just wanted to mention that the worst hotel experience I have ever had was on Gozo at the Serena Beach Club, which is run by Joe and Maryrose Vella. Though it is also a hotel, we exchanged our timeshare through them. We received our confirmation stating we would have to pay a utility charge of 57 lira, about 120$. This is unusual for a timeshare, but we were excited about going and decided to just pay it, as it was still cheaper than a hotel. When we arrived around 11:30pm to check in, Joe told us that no, the utility fee was 90 lira, about $270, for our apartment. We showed him the confirmation, he stated it was dated March, he raised the fee in May and it was Interval's responsibility to let us know. If we didn't want to pay it, we could leave. Well, we argued, but it was late and we took the easy way out and paid. We spoke to other interval members there later that week and discovered he charged some of them the 57 and some the 90, depending on how successfully they argued. One couple he refunded the difference. When I went to ask why we had paid more than other people and that I would like a refund as well, he proceeded to scream at me, call me an arrogant American, that I was too stupid to understand exchange rates, that I was the worst sort of person and I was not to come to the reception office again to ask for anything and that he would prefer I left the hotel, and various other abuse. Which we did, for our own sanity, a day early and headed back to Malta. Joe managed to reduce two other guests to tears. We heard stories from other guests about overcharging for board and other incorrect charges. Later discussion with Interval indicated that they had no knowledge of the rate increase.

Gozo was lovely and we enjoyed our time outside of the hotel. However, I would not recommend staying at the Hotel Serena Beach Club at Xlendi Bay, Gozo, Malta. I have lived in the former Soviet Union for almost 2 years, and I have never had such a terrible experience.
Susan
Kiev, Ukraine,    Mon 07/26/2004

BIKING IN AMSTERDAM
Susan>>>>search google.com for “Bike tours Amsterdam”. AND YOU MIGHT TRY "AMSTERDAM BIKE RENTALS"
S SMITH
ROANOKE, VA   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Sacher Torte
Allan, I was just in Vienna and although the Hotel Sacher was undergoing renovations, everyone was still able to eat in the cafe. I'm not sure if this is changing in August, I hadn't heard anything, but I do know that they were still serving Sacher Tortes in the cafe when I was there. I can't imagine they would be renovating that as well.
Cathy
Philadelphia, PA   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Need Reservation in Italy
MARC~~~~~~~~I would always inspect a room in Italy before agreeing to rent. Conditions are different in that country and standards are not kept. Therefore wait until you get there to take a room. Don’t wait too late in the day to start looking. Try to arrive in each town early in the morning and start looking. Venice and Florence have tourist info offices which are a help. In the CT you will have to search out a room by asking someone on the street or visit a bar and ask.
S Smith
Roanoke , VA   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

DEBIT CARDS AND BROKERAGE ACCOUNTS
Roger....call your issuing bank and ask these questions; that is the most authoritative source you have. Don’t rely on answers in this column from people who may not know.
NAMCEE
KNOXVILLE, TN   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Debit cards and brokerage accounts
As to credit/debit cards and ATM's. We have a DEBIT CARD and an account with C. Schwab-called a brokerage account. It shows VISA on the front and Plus and Star on the back and is through PNC bank of Delaware. I have not seen any comments on the Graffiti wall as to the use of these type cards, can anyone tell me if you have any knowledge of ussing these cards in Germany and France?? Roger
Roger Jenz <email>
Lombard, IL   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

To Tom Re: Day trip to London
I agree with the other posters about a day trip to london from paris. This is not a good idea. Even though the travel is by train, you must check-in in advance for the trip, go through security, etc. Delays are also quite common on the eurostar. It is possible but not worth it for just a day visit. Including wait and transfer times to the stations, your travel time for the round trip on that day will be at LEAST 7 hours (probably a lot more) and the cost will be high. Better to spend those 7 hours seeing something in paris.
Mary
austin, tx   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Provence by Car or Tour
I would opt for car travel for all the villages of Provence (except the coast). Tour is pretty much trouble free and perhaps the best option for some but I think that travel is a very personal thing and, therefore, the "common denominator" approach that a tour must achieve is very limiting. I think a tour has its place for those who are unable or unwilling to operate without the "buffer zone" that a tour provides. I don't at all mean this as an insult. Everyone has their own level of tolerance whereby hassles, language, cultural differences, etc stop being an adventure and start to inhibit you from having a good time. For myself, I would feel uncomfortable without the buffer zone of a tour for some parts of africa and perhaps bits of asia but would rather go it alone in europe. just my opinion.
Mary
Austin, TX   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Travel classes
WE are in Chicago, attending your classes is not possible. Can you put them online? A shortened version would do.
Roger Jenz <email>
Lombard, , IL   USA   Mon 07/26/2004

Hotels in Rome
Considering staying in Rome at one of following hotels: Virginia, Magnifico, Argentina or Embassy. Comments?
ruth <email>
Bellevue, WA   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Family Paris Trip
Tom, I agree with Karen, unless you're planning to spend the night, I'd spend my extra day in Paris. Though traveling by EuroStar is very easy, it's a 3 hour trip each way. We just returned from a trip to England with a "day-and-a-half" trip to Paris in the middle of it. Left on the 10:39 a.m. train on a Tuesday and came back on the 11:45 a.m. train on Thursday. I'm glad we did it since we had never been to Paris before, but even though we covered a lot of ground, it wasn't enough time to do the city justice (and London is just as interesting), and it was very tiring (and my two my two sons are 12 and 17). I'd say enjoy your Paris adventure and save London for another trip. (And, yes, you'll need two rooms, they tend to be quite small. Our hotel — not in the Rue Cler area — was charming, but my husband's and my room was taller than it was wide!)
Leslie
CA   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Driving in Provence
re: Driving in Provence. Robert — I can't compare Rick Steve's Provence tour with an indepedent driving tour but I can tell you that we just got back from a week in Provence on our own (after spending a week in Paris and 3 days in Burgundy). We had a marvelous time — since there were 4 of us, we rented an apartment for a week in Aix (wonderful city — no matter what Rick says) and used a car to explore the outlying areas each day. If just the two of us did it again, the only thing I would change would be to break up the week in two different areas of Provence — perhaps balancing a few days in Aix with a few days in a very small village (hill town). But to answer your question — everyone is different, but for us — we loved the freedom that independant travel gave us — the freedom to stay an extra 20 minutes in a little inn where we were speaking with some new friends without worrying about the bus leaving. It's true — you pay a price for this "freedom" — it took a lot of organizing before we left, but for me that was half of the fun. Driving in Provence is great fun — if you like small country lanes with little traffic and like to just pull off when you see a lavender field and walk through it — or pull over when u see an inviting family vineyard. On the other hand, I'm sure it can be very relaxing to just go on a tour and "leave the driving to them". "Different strokes for different folks."
Bob <email>
Lakewood, Wa   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Orthotic Shoes Shopping
I wear Orthotics so would like to know in Munich Germany where would be the best places to shop. Thank you
Michelle <email>
Victoria Australia, Victoria   Aus   Sun 07/25/2004

Room reservations for September
Marc, I would get reservations before you go. This is still "high" season in Italy and many of the best places will be full. It is no fun to waste your time going from place to place. If it were me (and I have been to Italy many times in the fall) I would go with reservations.

  USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Paris to Mont St. Michele
Sherry, We took the train from Paris directly to the town Mont St. Michele is in, then caught a bus which was waiting at the train station. I think the bus runs frequently. It was quite easy but the entire trip took longer than I imagined. We spent the night.

  USA   Sun 07/25/2004

EMAIL Problems GermanyAustria
Thanks to Everyone who took the time to send me Information in reagrds to my question about EMAIL's to Europe.Your answers are much appreciated,and helpfull.
Mike S. <email>
SF, CA   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Barcelona Hotels
My husband and I are looking for a moderatly priced hotel in Barcelona. We love to walk and prefer something centrally located. Any help is appreciated
Victoria <email>
San Francisco, CA   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Need a reservation in Italy?
We are travelling to Italy in mid-September. We are specifically going to Venice, Siena/Florence, and Cinque Terra. Can we get rooms when we get to town in all of these places? Or should we get reservations?
Marc <email>
Littleton, CO   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Italyby.com
We are going to Italy for this fall and I have found several hotels and apartments list with www.italyby.com and www.tuscanyby.com??? Has anyone booked through this company? Would you recommend them?
Francine <email>
pa   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Provence by car or tour?
We are seasoned travelers and are debating whether to take Rick Steve's Provence tour or go on our own with a car. This would be our 13th European trip (we've taken 2 Rick Steves tours) and we have driven by car in many countries. If you have done either one, we would appreciate your opinion. How easy is it to drive in that area of France? R.S. Tour? We like nice hotels; were they nice (i.e., clean and cheerful) or dank and depressing? Did you have a lot of early mornings on the tour? Thanks!
Robert <email>
Tulsa, OK   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

layover in Amsterdam-correct e-mail address
LAYOVER IN AMSTERDAM{5hrs}-sorry, listed wrong e-mail address.Please try andy.langston@wellsfargo.com
lynn <email>
Tulsa, OK   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Compatible Travel Locations
I've already looked on the "travel partners wanted" page, but I'm having a hard time locating people who are interested in traveling to the same destination as myself. Is there a more efficient way of finding a travel partner?
Rick Aidi <email>
Berkeley, Ca   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

layover in Amsterdam
layover in amsterdam{5 hrs} How far is the square from airport? is it worth it? how much would it cost? how much time would I have in town before needing to head back to airport? I really need a detailed timeline- have nervous husband!
Lynn <email>
Tulsa, OK   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

transportation to airport
We will be catching an early flight back from Venice. Since the boats are not running that early they are quoting us a cost of $300.00 for transportation to the airport. Is there a cheaper solution.
Jack Conley <email>
Montgomery, TX   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

transportation to airport
We will be catching an early flight back from Venice. Since the boats are not running that early they are quoting us a cost of $300.00. Is there a cheaper solution.
Jack Conley <email>
Montgomery, TX   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Paris to Mont-St-Michel Transportation
My daughter and I will be going from Paris to Mont-St-Michel. I know we take the train from Gare Montparnasse to Rennes. Would you then recommend taking a bus from Rennes to Mont-St-Michel or a train from Rennes to Pontorson and then a bus?
Sherry <email>
SD, CA   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Canal Tours from Paris
I'm considering the Paris Canal Co. trip from Paris to the Vignely lock. Has anyone taken this all day trip. I am concerned about being "trapped" on a canal boat if the trip is not particularly interesting. MC
Malcolm <email>
Charleston, S.C.   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Sacher Torte in Vienna
My wife and I will be in Vienna in mid August. The Hotel Sacher is closed for renovations. What is the next best place to get sacher torte?
Allan <email>
Sheboygan, WI   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Family paris trip
Tom, I'd think carefully about the "day trip" to London. Yes, it can be done in a day but why? and at what cost? We've been to Europe several times with our kids and the key is to slow things down not try to pack it all in. London is wonderful, especially for children, and if you were going to at least stay overnight I'd say consider it. When I looked into it for my family (and the kids were older than yours) I thought the trip was too long with the end result being really only a few hours in a marvelous city. Your 4 year old might have a hard time lasting through the day. Other than that I would imagine that Thanksgiving would be a great time to take your kids to Europe.
Karen <email>
atlanta, ga   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Biking in Amsterdam
We'd like to rent bikes and venture outside of Amsterdam to see some windmills & cows and get the (low) lay of the land. Mike's Bike Tours in A'dam is 24 euros/person for the tour — we can rent bikes for the day for 7-10 euros each, which is what we prefer to do. Any suggestions for a nice bike route or map that we can use to lead our own bike tour of Amsterdam & it's surroundings?
Susan
Atlanta, GA   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Delivery from Rothenburg
Mike — We sent Rothenburg purchases home by mail. They said allow 3-4 weeks and it took about four weeks. Everything arrived in good condition.
George
Philadelphia, PA   USA   Sun 07/25/2004

Looking for hostel suggestions in London
Looking for a clean hostel in London, somewhere in the vicinity of Regents Park.
Andrea <email>
San Rafael, CA   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

Florence shuttles
Does anyone know how to make reservations for the shuttles from the Florence airport to the city? Our return flight from Florence leaves about 7 am — what's the best way to get from Florence to the airport at 5 am? Thanks.
Lyn <email>
Encinitas, CA   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

Mike: E-mail problems in Germany and Austria
If you are contacting tourist offices by e-mail, the problem is not language — nearly every office will have someone who can respond to you in written English. The problem in my experience is mainly that Germans don't rely on e-mail nearly as much as we do for everyday communication and are much less likely to check their inboxes and return mail, even in tourist offices sometimes. I suggest if you don't hear back within a day or two that you call them directly to get your info; someone there will almost always be able to manage in English. Small pension and B&B operators over 50 or so often do not speak or write English; you may need to book their services through the local tourist office instead.
Russ <email>
Galt, CA   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

sorry for mistakes
Tom Crown here. I read my note as it was posted and my spelling and grammer reads terribly...sorry. Next time I'll read/correct it before it goes out. Tom Crown
tom crown <email>
san diego, CA   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

Paris travel with children
Hello everyone,

My wife and I decided to take our family (four children, 4 through 12) to paris this Thanksgiving. I have nothing but questions for those that may be able to help.
1. Is this a good time or will their be a crush of vacationers I am not aware of in my review of the literature?
2. We are looking at staying in one of the hotels recommended by Rick in the Rue Cler area...any that you may have stayed at you found better than others, especially thinking about the six of us. I am sure will will be getting two rooms.
3. We want to make a day trip to London via the EuroStar rail...pretty easiy thing to do or are there more transfers and problems that I may wish to keep the extra day in Paris?
Thanks for any help/suggestions.
Tom Crown
tomcrown2003@yahoo.com
tom crown <email>
san diego, CA   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

AUTOMATIC RENTAL IN PORTUGAL
Alison>>>>I keep a list of agencies to call when I need a car. Here is my list for Portugal: www.farocarhire.com , www.kasbah.com/car_rental/portugal, www.portugal-auto-rentals.com, www.specialfares.com, www.portugalcar.net, www.car-rental-centre.com, www.portugalcarrent.com/prices, www.cheap-car-rental.com>>>>I always call when they furnish a toll free number so I can talk with someone. Reserving an auto on the internet leaves a lot of unanswered questions. most agencies will NOT guarantee an automatic, but most will provide one for me if I persist when I get to the counter.
WILLIAMS
BROWNLEE, ARK   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

Email question to Austria and Germany
Mike~~~~if you are requesting brochures and travel info, I would suggest your write or call the tourist info offices for each country located in the U.S. You will find addresses at: www.towd.com/search.php. Click on the drop down menu and click on a country, then click on display. You will find lots of countries listed with email and mail addresses and phone numbers. Declocke
declocke
uasia, mn   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

Email reservations
Mike (also Susan), in what language are you sending these email requests? I find all of my accommodations on the web, and I write in German, and I have received responses to virtually every request. However, in most of the place I eventually stay, they do not speak any English. It is a common misconception that all Germans speak English. Based on a lot of travel, I think only 10-20% of Germans speak English. So, if you write in English, and they don't understand you, they won't (can't) answer. Larry
Larry <email>
Littleton, CO   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

Internet Resrv for Austria, Germany
To Mike, Do not give up, it took 2.5 wks for me to get emails back from small pension owners from Switzerland, Germ, Austria, Italy for Aug.They normally will not respond until they have an opening.As a back up try a chain like www.accorhotel.com. Very clean,convenient and a range of rates but generally no brfast. From A Motel 6 like (Formule) to Sofitel (4 star).Reserve then cancel if your others come thru. Hope this helps.
JS
Ca   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

Mailing Things Home
Does anyone know how long it takes for items that were bought at the Friese Shop in Rothenburg (page 143 in Rick's Germany book) to reach the USA??
david
o'side, ca   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

bus fare from malaga to algeciras
how long is a bus ride from malaga, spain to algeciras, spain? about how much should i expect to pay for fare? do buses run frequently and on time?
lea durange <email>
houston, TX   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

Florence Musuem Reservations
Is there a way to make advance reservations by e-mail for the Ufuzzi and Academia in Florence? I will be there in September.
Becky <email>
Palos Verdes, CA   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

Email — success with reservations
Mike, I've actually had amazing success planning my upcoming Germany-Austria-Netherlands holiday via the internet & email. I made ALL of my pension/hotel reservations by email — most of the addresses from Rick's book or from the Guidebook Forums here on the Graffiti wall — and dates & prices were usually finalized within 3 days of my first email contact. I've even been able to contact the German Rail by email — with a quick phone call to make our train reservation. I recommend using Rick's book & the Guidebook Forum for Austria & Germany as your guides, get pension suggestions & emails from there, and keep typing away. good luck.
Susan
Atlanta, GA   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

EMAIL Question to Austria and Germany
For the past Month,I have been planinng my Trip back to Austria and Germany, I have sent over 100+ email's to local Tourist Offices there,as well as Hotel's,Pension's,Zimmer's who's email's I have found on the NET. I was wondering if Im the only one,but I have noticed Im getting a very small percentage of responces back to my questions?,am I the only one having this problem?
MIKE <email>
SF, CA   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

AUTOMATIC car rental in Portugal
Does anyone have any suggestions for renting a car in Portugal? We absolutely need an AUTOMATIC car but are having trouble finding an agency that rents them. We are trying to find something on the less expensive side.
Alison and Gareth <email>
Toronto, ON   Canada   Sat 07/24/2004

winter in Italy
We're traveling Naples-Sorrento-Rome-CinqueTerre-Venice arriving 6pm Dec23 leaving mid Jan. what weather can we expect? where do we spend Christmas/NewYear (we're not loud party people)?
Rex <email>
Lacey, WA   USA   Sat 07/24/2004

CURRENCY CONVERSION
Chris~~~read Graffiti Wall section on money and ATMs for best advice on currency exchange. Never do it here because it costs too much. Always do it when you need it and where you need it. Call your bank and ask about ATM fees for withdrawing money in the countries you will be in.
WILLIAMSON
DENVER, CO   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Italy: Malpensa's Airport Hotel Cervo
We have read that the Hotel Cervo (& Ristorante) is a good and inexpensive three star hotel with all the basic amenities offered. It is between Malpensa's Terminal 1 and 2 -as is the more expensive and newer 4 star First Hotel. Has anyone out there had a recent booking? Your counsel?
Joann Thompson <email>
Seattle, WA   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Italy: Malpensa's Airport Hotel Cervo
We have read that the Hotel Cervo (& Ristorante) is a good and inexpensive three star hotel with all the basic amenities offered. It is between Terminal 1 and 2 as is the more expensive and newer 4 star First Hotel. Has anyone out there had a recent booking? Your counsel?
Joann Thompson <email>
Seattle, WA   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

No restaurant Serre, try these...
Kari, Re a replacement for the Serre restaurant in Paris, perhaps you will like the Cafe Bosquet at the intersection of ave. Bosquet and rue du Champ de Mars. Aside from the food, the excellent preparation of which is a given, pay attention to the flawless performance of the wait staff. The Cafe is a Rick Recommendation and has as an owner a true gentleman. Another Rick Recommendation is in the 5em just up rue Mouffetard, a shallow incline, cobble stone, medieval style street, from the Place Contrascarpe and well situated if you are staying at the Hotel l'Esperance. It is Le Jardin d'Artemis and is operated by a seeming rough-cut gentleman who speaks French and English with a Greek accent. I watched him a few nights during dinner. He is master of the room for, though he is not imposing, one knows the restaurant is his domaine. He is a benign Sire. Trust his recommendations especially if he wants you to try the goat cheese salad. A third place is worth every euro its slightly more expensive menues command. It is La Forge, on rue Pascal opposite Hotel l'Esperance. This place also is operated by a person who makes running a restaurant seem easy — always a sign of a well run place.
Harvey
Park Forest, Il   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Currency conversion
I noticed you mentioned credit cards. A lot of stores will take credit cards, and in most cases that will give you absolutely the best exchange rates. Big hotels will take the CC, but don't assume it. Europe is traditionally a cash society. Expect smaller hotels to demand cash. Never use a credit card in an ATM. They will charge you for a cash advance, which is more expensive. Use a debit card.
Larry <email>
Littleton, CO   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

currency conversion
For me, ATMs are the least expensive, in terms of fees, and that is what I use in Germany when I travel. As near as I can tell, I pay about 3% over the two way exchange rate. If I purchase Euro here in Denver, the main bank charges about 5% or more, plus there is a fee to send it out to the local branch. Still, it may be worth something to have a supply of the local currency on hand when you arrive, just in case you can't find an ATM right away. I go regularly to Europe, and I always bring back about €200 from each trip to have when I return.

One of my banks gives me free travelers cheques, and I always take some travelers cheques with with me. They are hard to exchange (banks only) but they will always work. So far I have never needed to cash them, but it is nice to have the security. I have had some ATM cards rejected.

Several things you should do if you plan on using your ATM card in Europe. Hopefully, you, or your traveling companions will have cards from several banks, in case a bank's system is down. Second, tell your bank you are going to be there. It is really none of their business, but banks have a nasty habit of assuming something is wrong when ATM withdrawals start showing up from Europe, and they might cancel your card. Third, make sure you have a high enough limit. I travel pretty frugally, but I still go through 50-60 Euro per day. €400 Euro is not too much to get at a time, but with today's exchange rate, and a small fee, that can easily be $500. Also, fees are usually a percent plus a fixed fee. The more you withdraw at a time, the smaller the fee, proportionally.
Larry <email>
Littleton, CO   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

currency conversion
I'm going to europe. should i exhcange my currency here or there? I heard the cheapest exchange was thru a credit card or ATM. Is this true?
chris stacey <email>
chicago, IL   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Hotel Aberdeen — Rome
Tom, I've stayed at the Aberdeen 3 or 4 times and really like it. Location is good, rooms are recently remodeled, buffet breakfast is above average, and the staff is always pleasant and helpful. I think you've made a good choice.
Frank
Wilmington, DE   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Iceland
We will be in Iceland Nov 6-8. Can anyone reccommend a bed and breakfast or guesthouse, non smoking?
Ginny <email>
largo, fl   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

renting a car — CHECK IT OUT!!
Anyone considering renting a car in Europe, PLEASE read the message I left under Driving Europe Crazy graffiti topic. I'm not going to repeat it all here but check it out — If I had only known this I would have saved $1300.00!!!!!
BOB <email>
Lakewood, Wa   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

RE: London/ Seattle airfare
When do you want to go? NWA has $343 RT from Seattle to London for November through January. With taxes and fees that is a little over $420.
Larry <email>
Littleton, CO   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

luggage and the RER
To Krishna in Portland. Yes, the RER, Sncf, Ratp, and Metro all allow travellers with lots of luggage, but French manners do not. Don't stand in train entrances with your stuff, block aisles or pile it up on seats if people are standing. There's not many options. Better yet, get rid of everything that does not fit into one bag/backpack that you can handle without help. Rick will be proud of you and the French will consider you "well raised." If you are not up on train etiquette, take the Roisybus (prounced "wha cee booz if you have to ask where to find it) from CDG to the area around Pont d'Alma/ Invalides. Avoid the taxis if you are on a budget. The RER blue stops at a couple of places in Paris. If you take it avoid Les Halles/Chatelet. You'll have to camp out overnight before you get out of the station. Luxembourg station is a better point and has many bus and metro possibilities especially if you are going to a left bank destination (the 5em, 6em, 7em, 12em.
Harvey
Chicago, IL   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

RE: London/ Seattle airfare
$650 is the cheapest roundtrip fare I've found, too, so if you can get one for that price, go for it! :)
Emily
Seattle, WA   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Accessible rental in Rome ?
I am looking for a ground floor rental in Rome. I do not need wheelchair accessible, but stairs are difficult. Ideally, a rental within a block or two of a town square would be perfect, any ideas?????? Thanks!
Ann <email>
Eugene, OR   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Cotswolds
We are planning a trip to England next spring and plan to spend time in the Cotswolds. Last time we stayed in Stow-on-wold but we prefer a small village that is well located for visiting other villages. The town of Burford seems to be a pleasant place to stay. Has anyone stayed there? Any other place to recommend? We enjoy hiking, pubs, old churches & cemeteries. We will be driving and hope to visit gardens as well.
Susan <email>
Atl,    USA   Fri 07/23/2004

October Weather in Bavaria
I'm planning a vacation to Munich and other parts of Bavaria in either early September or early October (i.e., before or after Oktoberfest). How is the weather in Bavaria during early to mid October in terms of sunny vs rainy/cloudy days?
Dan <email>
UT   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Hotel Aberdeen-Rome
We have reservations at the Hotel Aberdeen in Rome for early November. Any comments on your experience with this hotel, good or bad, will be appreciated.
Tom <email>
Duluth, GA   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Bed And Breakfast question — Piazza della signoria
Has anyone stayed in the Vespucci room at the Piazza della signoria , Bed and Breakfast? Was the bathroom ok? There is no picture on website. Thanks

Va   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

RAIL TRAVEL IN ITALY
Jim...it depends on where you travel, the time of day and the day of the week. It varies a great deal. My limited iTALIAN rail experience (only one week) proved that first class is worth the extra expense; many in second class have lots of luggage and noisy kids.

First class offers more space and quiet if you like it. I walked into second class one day to see if I would regret buying first class.. I was shocked at the contrast. That is not true in other countries.

As for buying the pass...you should add the cost of all the point-to-point tickets for your journey with the cost of the rail pass to determine which is cheaper. I always do that. Once I bought the SwissPass and found out later that point-to-point would have been cheaper.

You can find fares on raileurope.com. Click on “Fares and schedules” in the left column. Enter your departure city and destination and you will find the travel time and fare. Total the cost of all legs on your trip.
MINDY
WACO, TX   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Cassino
I would like to visit the Cassino area of Italy to vist the WWII battlefield and cemetary. Has anyone been there and is it worth it?
Jim Berry <email>
Charlotte, nc   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Rail travel in Italy
My wife and I will arrive in Milan in November and I'm not sure if I want to purchase an Italian railpass (1st class) or simply by city to city ticket. Is 1st class travel in Italy that much better than 2nd?
Jim Berry <email>
Charlotte, n.c   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Itinerary planning help
Alena>>>>>>>I would suggest you rent a car if you can afford it....I always do and never regret it because it gives you flexibility ...you can pack it and leave when you want to leave and go where you plan to go without depending on public transportation. First choose the towns you want to stay in. When I arrive in a town I drive around looking for signs in yards advertising rooms. ... most of them say zimmer frei. Which means room for rent. You may want to return your car for the time you are in Cinque Terre because the train is more practical; you cant drive into those 5 villages.

I never use a travel agent because I can research the places I want to visit and plan my itinerary myself....use google.com and ask for “Florence Attractions”; you will find pictures and descriptions; read through the pages and choose what you want to see. You can also go to your library and browse through travel guides: Frommers, Fordors, Lonely Planet and Fielding.
TRUDY
TULSA, OK   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

LONDON TO SCOTLAND RAIL
Jaime~~~~~it is always best to talk with an agent. I make a list of questions to ask him before I call. For rail information, call 800 782 2424 or FAX 800 282 7474. Or call 800 4EURAIL, 800 441 2387, or 800 248 7245.
Labrusky
Portland, ME   USA   Fri 07/23/2004

Rome in October
Eileen, I have been to Rome in October three different times and it has been warm each time. I didn't need a jacket at all. I guess if it was near the end of the month it would be safer to take something, but it would probably need to be very lightweight.

Tn   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

Itinerary planning help
I am dazed and confused! We're planning to visit Italy from 9/25 to 10/14 (3 wks). For the first week we'll be staying with friends. They have given us a few suggestions on places to see. But we're dazed on places to stay. The graffiti board offers a wide array of suggestions. We plan to hit Florence, Venice, Cinque Terra and Amalfi Coast/Sorrento for the remaining couple of weeks. Rick's 2004 Italy book suggests 2-3 at each location. We're traveling with our 8 year old son. We're thinking of using a suburb out of Siena as base for Florence and the hilly towns. Should I rent a car out of Siena? Then train from Siena to Venice and find somewhere to stay for two nights. Then train to Cinque Terra for 2-3 nights. The kicker is getting to Sorrento and how to see the coast line w/o driving ourselves. Rick's book and video offers some tour guide options. Does anyone have any experience or suggestions for Sorrento? Are my plans to tight? We would like this to be a relaxing yet exciting vacation. Should I stop playing travel agent and actually hire a travel agent to arrange places to stay, tours, and transportation? In a way I would hate to lose the luxury of roaming free when we want.

Thanks to everyone on this board for all the suggestions and advise. Our Rick Steve's bags are almost packed and ready to travel!
Alena <email>
WA   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

wash clothes in hostels
I wondered how people who stay in hostels wash their clothes. Do you wash them and hang them in the room full of other people?
anna
  USA   Thu 07/22/2004

Rome visit
Can anyone give me some advice of where to stay on a moderate budget in Rome and some places to visit, past experiences etc. Also can anyone tell me of ways to transfer from ciampino airport to the city centre
Gary C <email>
Sunderland,    UK   Thu 07/22/2004

europe with dog allergies
I am traveling to Germany and Austria with my husband and 3 children in a few weeks. I am finding it really difficult to find places to stay that don't allow pets. My husband is SEVERELY allergic to dogs. Does anyone have any suggestions? We plan to visit Munich and Salzburg and Hallstat, to name a few. Thanks!
Julie Haymes <email>
Concord, CA   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

Scotland Night Trains for Jaime
Going from London to Edinburgh can be done during the day or night. The night train is called the Caledonian Sleeper and it is a very nice train. To read about it and see the train go to "www.seat61.com" and look at travel within the the UK. That will get you to the ScotRail Website where you can make you reservations. Unless you are doing alot of other trips around the UK, it doesn't pay to get a BritRail Pass. Our trip is planned for September 8th, so maybe we will see you there. By the way, flying to Edinburgh is very cheap compared to the train, but not as much fun IMO. Have a good trip.
Greg <email>
Mpls, MN   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

Need Travel Medical Insurance
I am planning to travel for 3-6 months in Europe. I won't have medical insurance in the US and was interested in purchasing a plan in case of an emergeny. Has anyone had a good experience with a plan? How is Travel Insured? Thanks!
Angel <email>
Sacramento, CA   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

London to Scotland: Rail
My husband and I want to travel by train from London to Edinburgh. Any rail suggestions? Is it best to speak with an agent directly or book online? What are the differences between railpass.com, raileurope.com, railtrains.com and alleuroperail.com? THANKS!!!
Jaime <email>
Houston, TX   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

Eileen — Packing for October in Rome
Eileen – October daytime temperatures in Rome should be between cool comfortable (60’s) to hot (could be as high as 80). In the evenings, it should get cooler. I was there in October 2 years ago. I had only short sleeved and ¾ length sleeved tops, and a fairly light-weight sweater, and I was fine. If you are cooler natured, you may want to bring more for layering (silk long underwear top and a light jacket or sweater maybe), but unless there’s some weird weather fluke, you shouldn’t need anything bulky.
Angela
  USA   Thu 07/22/2004

Hotel in Ronda, Spain
Has any one stayed at the Hotel Enfrente Arte in Ronda, Spain? It is recommended in Rick's book, but haven't been able to find any reviews of it anywhere. Thanks!
Katherine <email>
Ks   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

Packing
How's the weather like in Rome in Oct? Should I bring a light or heavy coat with me. I want to avoid bringing bulky pieces, is layering enough?
Eileen <email>
SF, CA   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

daylight hours in spain
Would anyone know the daylight hours in Andalusia (seville / Granada) in November ??
abhi <email>
boston, ma   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

About the Greeks
JuLynne>>>>>>We spent a week in Athens last year and found no one who disliked us. After traveling in over 50 countries, I find natives treat you like you treat them. If you are courteous, they will be also. Don’t be the ugly American. Be nice and you will have a great welcome.
Englander
Southbeach, SC   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

JET LAG
Rachel~~~~go to http://www.nojetlag.com/jetlag3.~~~you will find lots of suggestions to try. I have made many transoceanic flights and have tried dozens of rememedies ....I settled on the 3 that help ME. I find walking the aisles every 30 mins. helps and drinking lots of bottled water. Avoid carbonated drinks and alcohol.
STEINBRINNOR
TULSA, OK   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

STANSTED SLEEPOVER
ESTELLE....Go to Sleepinginairports.com and click on “Europe” in the left column. Then click on “England” and you will see “London-Stanisted”. ...Click on it.... There are 41 reports to read. I have slept in SFO in San Francisco and in Milano airport with no problems. >>>>find a place to sleep as early in the afternoon as possible and claim it>>look for a seat without arms so you can stretch out.
HAVERLY
GARY, IN   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

Jet Lag
On several trips, I found that the best ways are the simplest. Start by adjsuting your schedule before you go, up earlier, to bed earlier (9:00 PM even). On the flight, lots of water, get what sleep you can. First day, most flights get in anywhere from early morning to noon, plan to stay at least one night near the city you land in, a long train ride will make jet lag worse. Ideally, if you can spend the entire afternoon and early evening doing something active outdoors...just walking the city, visiting gardens...you will do well. Take a late dinner, then to bed, no earlier than 9:00 pm local time, then up no later than 7:00 AM. You want to adjust your body to local time, including eating at regular times and no napping.
Paul <email>
IA   USA   Thu 07/22/2004

Hotel Porte Doree Paris Hotel
Need a good place to stay in Paris, something more on the inexpensive side? A two star place that feels and looks like a three or maybe even a four star? Where English isn't just a second language and the owners are some of the nicest most helpful people in town? Then try the Hotel de la Porte Doree. www.hoteldelaportedoree.com

This one isn't in Rick's books, but that is okay. If it were located in the rue Cler or Marais neighborhood then it would be (I can say that, I work for Rick.) This hotel isn't exactly in the center of Paris but is is only a couple of Metro stops from the Bastille (where lots of Rick's Marais neighborhood hotels are found) and is still within walking distance of a lot of really interesting Paris sights. This hotel is a real gem and I guarentee if you try it you will end up staying there again on future trips to Paris.
Michaelanne <email>
Edmonds, WA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Ann: Packing for Paris
I've traveled to Paris in March the last four years...each time, the weather was different. One year it was hot, the next it was perfect. Last year it rained nearly every day. Make sure you bring an umbrella and a jacket, at least...I took a black leather jacket...seems everyone in Paris has one. One morning it was cold enough for gloves. Check out the weather right before you leave and you can decide if you want to bring gloves or not. Here's a site for 10-day weather forecast: http://www.intellicast.com/Local/IntlLocalStd.asp?loc=frxxct28817&seg=LocalWeather&prodgrp=Forecast&product=Forecast&prodnav=none

Moving on, I think layers would be best, in addition to your jacket. You may discard it by the end of the day, depending on the weather. Parisians do wear a lot of black and they do dress up more than we do here. I haven't seen anyone wear a sweatshirt and track pants to the grocery store. Jeans are fine. No matter how hard you try, you won't be mistaken for a fellow Parisian. Maybe they're born with it. *g* Hope I've been of some help!
Brandie <email>
KS   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

DUBROVNIK HOTELS
FOR AN ANSWER TO USA TUE 07/20 THERE ARE MANY GOOD HOTELS IN DUBROVNIK. A FEW I LIKE ARE HOTEL PETKA PORT SIDE WWW.CROATIA-VACATION.COM FAX 385 20 41 80 58 E-MAIL HOTEL-PETKA@DU.HINET.HR PLEASE VERIFY FAX NUMBER BEFORE IN TOWN WWW.HOTELSTARIGRAD.COM OD SIGURATE BR.4 FAX 385 20 321-256 ON LAPAD SECTION- NOT STAYED HERE HOTEL ZAGREB NICE LITTLE HOTEL E-MAIL HOT-SUMRATIN@DU.HINET.HR FAX 385 20 436-006 NEAR TOWN WWW.HOTEL-BELLEVUE.HR FAX 385 20 41.40.58 NOT STAYED HERE NOTE DUBROVNIK IS VERY BUSY IN JULY AND AUGUST. YOU MAY REFER TO LOCAL TRAVEL AGENCY FOR HELP OR THE TOURISM OFFICES.

  CAN   Wed 07/21/2004

Jet Lag
Rachel — my family of 4 follows this routine to minimize jet lag: get up early on the day of travel (4 AM). Start normal day schedule except everything is moved up a few hours. Assuming we have a flight about 7:00 pm, we eat a light "dinner" about 2:00 pm. All of us take different "sleep aids" ranging from OTC Benadryl and Dramamine to prescription Ambien and Xanax. We take these immediately prior to or just after boarding. At this point we either go to sleep immediately or the kids sometimes eat a bit on the plane and then sleep. We wake up for breakfast on the plane, have a quick wash up and hit the ground running. The only concession we make the first day is dinner as early as possible and sleep by 9:00 pm. We admit to being a bit fuzzy on day 1 activities (I napped during our Seine boat ride) but we are fairly well adjusted by the morning of day 2.
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Rick Steves' Bingo
I heard from a friend that there is a "Rick Steves' Scavanger Game" being played while people are in Europe? I want to play!!! What are the rules?
Leah <email>
Belmont, CA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Minimizing Jet Lat
I notice a lot less Jet-lag since I started sleeping several hours on the flight. I make that my main objective. No alcohol. Light eating. Minimal movie watching. Lots of water and other fluids. I used the homeopathic No-Jet-Lag remedy on several flights. I can't say whether it helped.
Swan <email>
CA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Stockholm-Helsinki ferry
I would like to take either the Silja or Viking Ferry between Stockholm and Helsinki. Does anyone know if this counts as 1 day on a ScanRail or Eurail Pass, 2 days or 0 days? Does anyone have any experience with either line?
susan <email>
Randolph, N.J.   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Stansted sleepover
Is it permissible to sleep in the airport at Stansted? We will be making several internal flights within Europe using Stansted as the hub, and on one of our legs we arrive so late at night, and then depart so early the next morning, that it doesn't seem worthwhile to book a room in terms of the cost and the time it takes to get back and forth to the hotel.
Estelle Berg <email>
Providence, RI   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Varenna — Milano or Olivedo?
In Varenna, which would you recommend, Albergo Milano or Albergo Olivedo and why?
Barbara McLean <email>
  USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Germany traffic ticket
Polly, I would think if it were a parking ticket they would have placed it on your car (like they did ours in England). They use cameras on the roads to catch speeders and people running red lights. It takes a photo of the car and license. (We're doing the same thing here now.)
Devra <email>
El Toro, CA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Jet Lag
Here a question for all seasoned travelers. I'm asking for your tips andtricks on preventing (or minimalizing) jet lag. I'm sure I'm not the only one who'd appreciate the advice!
Rachel <email>
N. Tonowanda, NY   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Amalfi Coast by Bus
Larry, we stayed four days in Sorrento. Found it to be a good base. It's a good-sized town and has good access to the islands and the coast. We took the ferry only to Capri, but you can also take it to Amalfi and/or Positano. We had heard the bus ride to Amalfi was fun (like the drive down Highway 1 in California, but maybe even curvier) and that's one reason we took it. It was fun! We took the bus as far as Amalfi and spent a good part of the day there. We then caught another bus to Positano where we spent the rest of the day eating, shopping and hanging out on the beach before heading back to Sorrento. Had no problems.
Devra <email>
El Toro, CA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Paris in March
My sister and I are going to spend a week in Paris in early March. Any suggestions on what to pack? Are layers better or will we need a very warm jacket and gloves?
Anna <email>
El Cajon, CA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

High Tea in London
Marcia, We had tea at the Ritz and told them we had theater tickets and they made sure we were out on time. No rush though, plenty to eat (they offered to get more, plus brought around additional desserts not included in the service) — so much that we skipped dinner after the theater. Cost about $40-45 per person but with the company, atmosphere, service definitely well worth it. A reservation is a must. Also had tea at Browns, where you can have all the tea you want but only one serving of sandwiches and desserts. I don't think they take reservations, first come first serve there. Harrods also has tea for quite a bit less. The Savoy, Claridges, Kew Palace, etc. also have teas.
Devra <email>
El Toro, CA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Day-tripping the Amalfi Coast
A couple of years ago I took a day-trip by public bus from Sorrento. I would have taken the boat back, but that would have involved a long wait. Part-way back up the hill there was a small bus that I took back up to the top where I could catch the return bus back to Sorrento. That was a thrilling trip since it was siesta time and there wasn't much traffic. Our bus driver drove fast and scared the heck out of me. We all survived. The boat trip would be scenic and a lot less scary probably.
Swan
  USA   Wed 07/21/2004

About the Greeks
Help. My husband and I are going to the Olympics as part of his work and I have started hearing from well-meaning friends and co-workers who have been to Greece that the Greeks really do not like Americans and can make this plain in a variety of ways. I have even gone on some websites that seem to substantiate this claim. Is it true? What can I do personally? We leave in a few weeks and what had started out to be an exciting proposition has turned into something quite dire.
JuLynne
San Francisco, CA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Turkey — cabin charter cruise
Turkey — cruise cabin charter in the Mediterranean. I would like some feed back if anyone has rented a cabin on a chartered gulet and what advise they could share? We are planning to do a 4 day 3 night trip from Fethiye to Olympos this September and would like to know if we should book reservations from home or wait until we arrive in Fethiye. Any information about this would be apreciated. Thank you Margie
Margie and Ross <email>
Delta, bc   canada   Wed 07/21/2004

Tea in London
Marcia~~~we were in London in May and had tea at the Lanesborogh and walked to the theater from there. I do not know of a reasonably priced tea — it seems to be an expensive affair. We had tea several yrs ago at the Oranery at Kensington palace and it was not the same atmosphere (noisy with rushed service) you get at a hotel. Check londontown.com and get info from them. I decided that one from the top five would have to be my selection. I don't get to London that often so went for a splurge. You will need reserv for Ritz — we reserved 2 days ahead for the Lanesborogh. Happy travels!
Susan <email>
Ga   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Lunch in Munich
I have an 6 hour layover in Munich, from 08:00 till nearly 03:00 pm. What's the best way to experince a great Munich bier/lunch and still make the flight? I am a homebrewer and have never been to Germany before.
Anne <email>
Essex Junction, v   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Amalfi coast
To Larry — My husband and I just returned from a 21 day trip to Italy and loved the Amalfi coast, the lower side in our opinion being very different, not as crowded, etc. We had no trouble getting on buses or boats to travel from place to place on this side. We visited Positano, but were so glad we stayed in Ravello — it was paradise! We stayed at the Villa Maria in a superior room w/ seaview — gorgeous and wonderful food, elaborate breakfast — for about 240 Euros (our splurge). If you go there, visit the villas and gardens of Villa Cimbrone (1/2 day) and eat lunch on the cliff's edge — spectacular. Have a great time- we did!
Lynne <email>
Frederick, MD   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

High Tea in London
Is there a reasonable and delicious High Tea experiences in the Theater District? How do we make the reservations before we arrive there on August 10th?
Marcia Davis <email>
Stuart, , Fl.   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Larry: Amalfi Coast
Just to add,I did find schedule information on-line. Try these two sites, they list timetables, costs, etc. http://www.coopsantandrea.com/en/default.asp http://www.metrodelmare.com/home.htm Should give you an idea of what is do-able in a day.
Paul <email>
IA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Larry: Amalfi Coast
Day trips from Sorrento are most likely the best option. I can only speak about my Positano day trip, we took the bus from Sorrento, off at Positano, then took the ferry back to Sorrento. Had not planned it that way, but the bus drops you off at the top of Positano, and you either walk or taxi down to the beach, about 10,000 steps (I may be exagerating), no way were we going to walk back up those steps. You need a ferry schedule, if I had one, it would be a couple years old, but it seems likely that if you started out early, you could take the bus to Salerno, then work your way back to Sorrento on the ferry, stopping a place or two and catching the next ferry, or if need be, taxi up the hill and catch the bus. have a good time.
Paul <email>
IA   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

Restaurant Recommendation
Now that Restaurant La Serre is closed, can anyone recommend a good local restaurant in the Rue Cler neighborhood for a traditional French dinner?
Kari <email>
Chicago, IL   USA   Wed 07/21/2004

What about Grand Circle Tours?
I'm considering taking a Grand Circle Tour of Malta &/or Sicily. I've taken several RS tours and enjoyed them but GCT looks more sedate with longer stays in hotels. Has anyone used this company? I'd like to get recommendations from RS readers-travellers who have tried both RS and GCT, for good/bad opinions. The GCT seems inexpensive, even tho including airfare.
Swan <email>
Calistoga, CA   USA   Tue 07/20/2004

Travels to Italy — Cinque Terre
(1)Looking for recommendations on a nice hotel in the Cinque Terre region. (2) Will be in Florence for the day, can I still store my luggage at the Train Station or are there new restrictions like here in the US?
vince <email>
Orlando, FL   USA   Tue 07/20/2004

Salerma, Portugal
Traveling to Portugal, The Algarve (Salerma) Sept. 2-9. Does anyone know of a cheap place to stay on the beach or very close to the beach?
Nora Santos <email>
Broad Brook, CT   USA   Tue 07/20/2004

Amalfi Coast by Bus
My wife and I are planning a 28-night trip, using Rick's book (of course), to Italy in September. We have a qu