Travelers' Helpline Archives:
January 2005
Each month's postings are removed from the active board and archived here. If you're looking for the answers to a particular question that was posted, be sure to look in subsequent months, also, to see all the answers.
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Best Time to arrive in Europe
I'd think the best time to arrive in Europe (especially a place with more culture shock), would be evening. When I got to Italy for my study abroad trip (my first time overseas), I was so overwhelmed by everything different. Different smells, different language, different sounds, even different-tasting bananas! After all of the sensory overload of less then 3 hours, I just needed to take a shower and sleep, because I couldn't handle all of it. I wanted to go home so badly, I felt so sick and miserable! But after a shower and a nice long snooze, I felt great and was ready to explore. Since I think many travelers feel exhausted after they arrive, I think that arriving in the evening would allow you to look around for a little while, and then go to sleep as it gets dark, which allows you to get onto Europe time a bit better. Long answer, but hopefully helpful =)
Callie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Mon 01/31/2005
renting vehicles
hey. how old do you have to be to rent a car in europe, and do they have automatics. thank you. oh. same with renting scooters. whats the risk etc. any help would be awesome!!
danielle <email>
petaluma, ca USA Mon 01/31/2005
What Time to Arrive in Euriope
What is the best time to arrive in your European destination city, to maximize your travel experience, but minimize jet lag and other inconvenience (hotel check in time)?
Julie <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Mon 01/31/2005
RE: Dolomites
Linda -- you don't need a car for the Dolomites because there are lots of buses to take you back and forth from Bolzano to the Dolomites for great hiking. However, in our opinion, except for the cute town square, Bolzano was kind of an armpit. Quite a bit of sketchiness. I'd recommend staying somewhere like Castlerotto (sp?), which is a short bus ride from Bolzano, and right where you can hit the trails. The 12-mi hike Rick recommends is fantastic.
Kristin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Mon 01/31/2005
Short Tours Between Munich & Salzburg
Help with itinerary for 5 days touring small towns outside of Munich before catching our bike tour in Salzburg. Then need tour ideas between Salzburg and Munich when our bike tour is over. Thank you
DiDi <email>
Tampa, FL USA Mon 01/31/2005
Portugal
My mother, sister and I will spend 2 weeks in Portugal this summer. My mother is not able (or willing) to move about the country every few days, so I thought we would settle in around Lisbon in an apartment or villa and day trip it throughout the country. If my sister and I need, we'll take off for an overnight (like to the Algarve). Any ideas of towns to 'home base' it? And good contacts for places to stay. Not too remote...we want to be in the middle of things.Thanks
Lee <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Mon 01/31/2005
DRIVING AROUND THE COTE D AZUR
DAVID HORNE~~~~I drove that part of France in June and I found that even with the hassle of parking and traffic, having a car was so much more convenient.~~~~ I would do it again. ~~~~Relying on public transportation in Europe always fatigues me.~~~~ One can spend so much time waiting on trolleys, busses and trains that never seem to run on schedule.~~~~ If you can afford auto rental do it.~~~~ Parking in the towns is difficult, but not impossible.~~~~ It seems that one can never find a parking spot near his destination, but parking lots and garages are easily found.~~~~~ You will see the large sign with a blue “P” on it.
A.M.W.
PORTLAND, USA Mon 01/31/2005
Re: Randy/Musical Instrument
If all you have is your carry on size bag and your mandolin, I think that would be plenty light. I don't play an instrument, but I would think someone playing Bluegrass in Europe, even solo on a mandolin, would be a hit. What a way to break down barriers with the locals! If the itinerary you mentioned is part of a group tour, you might ask the organizer their thoughts, but I would suffer a little extra baggage for the opportunity to spread a little true American music.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 01/31/2005
ANTIQUES IN THE UK
Kelly Buchanan.....Antique shops are easy to locate in each of the cities you will visit. Just stop anyone on the street and ask. Or ask at your hotel and they will direct you to one nearby. It won’t help to learn about one here, because finding it is always more difficult than you might think.
MARIANNE S.
TULSA, USA Mon 01/31/2005
Driving around the Cote d'Azur
My wife and I are going to be renting a house in Agay, France for two weeks from late May to early June. It's eight miles from St Raphael on the Cote d'Azur, between Cannes and St. Tropez. We were wondering if anyone has driven in that area during that time of year, and if we need to rent a car for our stay to really enjoy the region, or if the parking and driving hassles negate the benifits? How is the costal transit along this part of the French coast? How is the driving/parking in the cities - Nice, Cannes, St. Tropez, etc? Any help would be most appreciated. Thanks, Dave
David Horne <email>
West Linn, OR USA Mon 01/31/2005
NORMANDY AND BRITTANY
Pat Coggins~~~~Based on what I know of these two regions, I would allow 3 days to see the important parts of Brittany and a full day for Normandy. If I were going, I would get a map and compute the mileage you must travel to see the places you plan to visit. Allow an hour of travel time for every 30 miles (50 KM). I do that and usually manage. You may want to leave a day open to change your itinerary. I always find driving much more convenient because you can stop where you desire.
L. A. W.
OMAHA, USA Mon 01/31/2005
Stansted to Gatwick
Denise~~you could take the Stansted Express which goes to Liverpool Station. From Liverpool Station you could (depending on how much luggage you have) take the Circle Line (subway) or a cab to Victoria Station. From Victoria take the Gatwick Express. Here again it depends on how much luggage you have and how much time you have between flights. You really should have several hours between flights to transfer between airports with out alot of stress.
Robin <email>
Oh USA Mon 01/31/2005
Train from Keswick
Anna~~there isn't a direct train to and from the Lake District. You can take a train from London Euston Station, but you have to change 4 or 5 times. You would end in Windermere and then from there you would have to take the bus to Keswick. The same for your return trip to Stratford upon Avon. What I would suggest is while you are in London take a day trip Stratford, it would be a lot easier that way.
Robin <email>
Oh USA Mon 01/31/2005
Samos to Turkey
We will be in Greece, Sept. 05, plan on visiting Samos, and are interested in hearing from anyone who might have daytripped (or overnighted) into Turkey from there, particulary to the ruins at Epheseus. What arrangements were made? was it with a tour? travelling independently? Travel Time? Costs?
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 01/31/2005
taking a musical instrument
I am a semi-pro mandolin player in a working bluegrass band. My wife and I are taking the three week "Best of Europe" trip. I don't like the idea of being without my instrument for three weeks because I need to keep my finger callouses and stay in practice, and I have a gig shortly after I return home. Frankly, I expect that I will be too busy to get in a lot of practice, but even 20 minutes a day could keep me from backsliding. If I bring a mandolin, it would probably be a backpacking model. I have flown with a regular sized mandolin in the states several times, and have never had a problem -- it fits nicely in the overhead compartment, and I put my carry-on bag under the seat. But, with all of the emphasis on packing light, I don't want to bring my mando and look like a fool, either. Any advice????
Randy Lent <email>
Soledad, CA USA Mon 01/31/2005
Re; Susan/Easyjet
We have flown on both Easyjet and Ryanair, like both airlines and appreciate the low fares, but baggage restrictions are one place that people get burned. Go to www.easyjet.com and go over the details, but in a nutshell: 1. You are allowed one hand baggage item slightly smaller (8" by 16" by 21") than a "standard" carry-on...this will be like a daypack, purse, or briefcase.2. You can check baggage up to 20 Kilos (44 Pounds) at no charge. Since you can't carry on your "rick steves" bag or standard carry-on (Too Big), and 40 pounds pretty much is your typical luggage, very little is left for extra stuff. Anything over the 40 pounds, you are charged for, I work out the current rate to be right around $4.00 USD a pound. (6.50 Euro/4 British Pounds per Kilo) Pretty steep. They do weigh all baggage, and strictly enforce their limits, within reason. Easyjet is still a great way to get around, just play by their rules.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 01/31/2005
Re: Dolomites
We daytripped to Bolzano, so didn't really get a chance to do any hiking, but we did ride the trams or cars suspended by cables into the mountains, from there it looked like you could hike to your hearts content. Bolzano itself is served by a main rail line, and looked like a neat town. I really don't think that a car would be necessary, but just my impression. It is a mix of Italian and what I would consider German culture, almost more German (I know it is properly Swiss, but seems German to me). Plus the museum built around "The Iceman" is interesting.
P
USA Mon 01/31/2005
Dolomites, Italy
I'm thinking about spending 2 nights in Bolzano to see/hike the Dolomites. Is it hard to get around and hike without a car? What is transportation like in this area or should I stick to the cities without a car? thanks for tips!
Linda <email>
Ashland, OR, OR USA Mon 01/31/2005
travel between London Airports
This is my first trip to Europe. I am flying to London Gatwick and going on to Venice via EasyJet. on getting back I am noticing that some flights go back to London Stansted instead of GTW. I fly back to US from GTW Has anyone traveled from Stansted to GTW? What is the best way to do that?
Denise Nobs <email>
Houston, TX USA Mon 01/31/2005
train to Statford Upon Avon
There are 4 of us traveling through UK. We are starting in London then traveling to the Keswick area. We would like to stop in Statford for a night on our way back to London. Our question is: what train would we take from the Keswick area to Statford? Anyone able to help us?
Anna <email>
San Antonio, TX USA Mon 01/31/2005
Paris to Bayeux
Take the RER to gare du nord. Stay in the station, walk to the right metro platform and take the metro to gare st. lazare(the same ticket that got you on the RER is good for the metro as long as you do not go through the exit gates).Catch the train to bayeux at gare st. lazareThe train is an express, cost about 60 euro each (round trip) and reservations are recommended. See www.voyages-sncf.com to get times and make reservations. I believe that tickets can be held at the counter for you.
Jeff <email>
Placerville, CA USA Mon 01/31/2005
Re: Shipping Wine
I agree with the previous poster regarding the uncertainties of handling that may affect the quality of the wine, but aside from that, you need to research the issue for your circumstances in order to make shipping wine feasible. Your resident state (I assume Minnesota) will be the key factor in the ease of shipping. US Customs will assess whatever duties there are, but has no limits as to quantity. Minnesota however, does limit you to two cases or 12 liters, per year. Go to http://www.dps.state.mn.us/alcgamb/alcenf/alcenf.html to sift through the details. Customs will enforce the applicable state laws. I am not sure of the physical process as to port of entry, where you pick up, other details. You do need to ship via private carrier (UPS or Fed Ex or other) the USPS will not deliver or ship alcohol. With proper packing, shipping is an option, whether it is economical, you have to decide. Myself, I lovingly bring back those few bottles of Brunello myself; although I have been known to bring back 4 cases (pre strict baggage limits) between my checked and carry on luggage.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 01/31/2005
Normandy & Brittany
Can anyone help with guidelines for time required to properly see the sights in Normandy & Brittany? We have been to France before and had a great time and would like to go again, this time to the west. I have no idea how much travel time to plan. We will have 13 days in May and will rent a car outside of Paris. Is this too much and should we include some Paris time again? Merci, Pat
Pat Coggins <email>
Marblehead, MA USA Mon 01/31/2005
Overnight train travel
Dean.... Getting back to your original question about getting a seat or compartment on that night train....According to the website for EuroNight, the company that operates the night train from Rome to Munich, you can get a SparNacht (savings night) fare of 29 EUR pP in a reclining seat or 69 EUR pP in a private, 2 person compartment. At that price I would certainly take the privacy and security of a locked compartment over reclining seats. That is the entire fare from Rome to Munich. The tickets at this price are limited. I can't find a webpage for online ordering, only a phone number in Germany (0049/ 1805/ 14 15 14). I would assume they speak English, but I don't know. If the SparNacht fares are not sold out when you get to Europe, you can get that same price at a ticket counter. If not, the maximum price for the compartment is probably 129 EUR pP. Considering how much you will save on a night in a hotel, the compartment still beats a day train or flying.
Larry <email>
CO USA Mon 01/31/2005
Concerts in Florence and Rome
CLASSICAL CONCERTS IN ITALY:Perhap Shari may be able to glean some information from...http://selectitaly.com/events.php?parent_nav=3
USA Mon 01/31/2005
FORLI AIRPORT ACCOMMODATION
FORLI AIRPORT HOTEL: There appears to be just one at 800 metres distance. See...http://www.laterooms.com/en/F88578.html
USA Mon 01/31/2005
German War Memorials
Christine: There are very few memorials to the soldiers of WW II, and understandably so; helping Hitler carry out his deeds is not considered honorable service by most. There are a number of well-known concentration camps that chronicle the accomplishments of some of Hilter's military force, of course. I have come across German WW II military cemeteries in Luxembourg and Belgium. As for other wars, almost every major city has some sort of war memorial; some are very generic affairs - "to the fallen protectors of our homeland" - that sort of thing.
Russ
USA Mon 01/31/2005
Greek Islands
My wife and I will be travelling to the Greek islands this summer. Can anyone please recommend nice small hotels/B&Bs in Athens, Santorini, Crete, or Mykonos? Any suggestions regarding ferries, restaurants and the like would be very appreciated. If you have any personal advice please e-mail me. Thank you fellow travellers!
Carlos Pacheco <email>
Toronto, CANADA Mon 01/31/2005
Annecy Accomodations
To Patti in Ann Arbor- We stayed in a small town called Veyrier du Lac, just a little southeast of Annecy on the eastern shore of the lake. You'll need a car. In an area of pricey accomodations, we found Auberge du Lac. Above their restaurant, we had a corner room with bath, and comfortable bed too, for 65 euro. The kicker was the lakefront balcony that came with the room! Fond memories of enjoying the afternoon sun and taking catnaps overlooking the lake. And there's a great spot for breakfast pastries right on the main road through Veyrier - always important when traveling in France! Check out their web-site: www.bord-du-lac.com. They have an actual hotel annex uphill from the restaurant, but the "easy on the budget" accomodations are upstairs above the restaurant in the lakefront building. Bon Voyage!
Ken <email>
Naples, FL USA Mon 01/31/2005
Shipping Wine from Italy
To Garry in Minneapolis-Just wanted to give you a little reality check on shipping wine to the U.S. Your wine will have to clear US customs, during which time it will sit in a warehouse that will not be climate-controlled. The entire shipping process is wine's worst enemy (and everyone wonders why "it tastes so much better there than here!"). Your savings will be meager at best. We recently found (right here in the good old US of A) a very drinkable DOCG Chianti for $5/bottle that had "Greve-in-Chianti" right on the label. Good wine, even better memories of our time in Tuscany. And all I had to do was bring it home from the store, open it up, enjoy it, and go back to buy more! I hate to rain on your picnic, but don't spend precious vacation time trying to arrange to ship wine from Italy. Just pack a couple of cherry-picked bottles in your carry-on, and save them for a special occasion.
Ken <email>
Naples, FL USA Mon 01/31/2005
Siena or Florence
Linda~~~I don't think Siena warrants three nights. If I went again it would be as a daytrip. If you decide to stay there be very careful selecting a hotel. Ours was extremely noisy and over priced. Siena was larger & busier than I expected--there are seven portos into the city & you need to know which one will get you near your hotel. We were not informed of this and driving in was very stressful. A really nice town is Assissi. Happy travels!
Nancy
Ga USA Mon 01/31/2005
Breaking up longer trips
Sally -- I would really consider breaking up your trip into several smaller ones. Spend a week in Paris and then move on to whatever country or city you are interested in. It will rejuvenate you as you look forward to your next destination. Certainly there is enough in Paris to occupy you for your whole two weeks, but you can get too settled into the same routine, staying at the same place for the whole time. Stay a week to get to know the city, but leave some thing to visit on your next trip!
Sue
Philadelphia, PA USA Mon 01/31/2005
Antiques in London
Kelly -- depending on when you will be in London, there's lots of choices for antique shopping. Monday is the antiques market at Covent Garden Market. Friday morning is the Bermondsey Market (between Bermondsey St. and Long Lane -- also many antiques shops in this area of Southwark). Saturday mornings is the market in Portobello Road in Notting Hill. Very crowded, but lined with antique shops that are open other days. And then there's Gray's Antiques in Mayfair. I had lots of fun hunting for things you don't see in the states. Enjoy!
Sue
Philadelphia, PA USA Mon 01/31/2005
Siena/Florence
Linda;I think it is fair to say that depends on the rest of your itinerary, and how much you are expecting to do in Florence. If your other stops are Rome and Venice, and you plan only to hit a couple of museums and wander the sights in florence, then pick Siena and daytrip into Florence one day on the bus. You will appreciate the smaller town feel of Siena compared to Rome and Venice, and will need the relax time. If the rest of your Itinerary is pretty relaxed, and you are a big art buff, then stay in Florence and daytrip to Siena. Another option is to arrive in Siena, enjoy two nights, take an early bus to Florence, spend the day and the night before moving on the next day (or reverse depending on your direction of travel.)
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 01/31/2005
French Countryside
A lovely chataux is Vaux le Vicompte. Same architect and landscape designer as Versailles, but a far more enjoyable experience to visit. A couple of hours outside Paris by train (and then a taxi ride from station). And no where near as crowded as Versaille--you can have rooms to youself.
USA Mon 01/31/2005
CAOTINA SWISS CHOCOLATE DRINK MIX -- Where to buy it in the US???
Does anyone know where to buy CAOTINA Swiss Chocolate powdered drink mix in the US? It makes the loveliest cup of hot chocolate. I've been googling and can't find it anywhere. Thanks
legiope <email>
atlanta, ga USA Mon 01/31/2005
Good Day trip out of Paris- French Country side
I am traveling to Paris in mid-February and I will be there for 5 nights and 6 days. I would like to do a day trip and spend the night in the French country side. Where should I go to really get the country side feel, beauty and wine vineyards? And how do I get there?
Matt <email>
Baltimore, MD USA Mon 01/31/2005
Turkey and India
Due to the events in Iraq, would it be safe for 2 women to travel to western Turkey? I want to go for it, but want to assure myself that I will be safe. Has anyone been to Turkey recently? Also, if anyone has been to both Turkey and northern India, which was your favorite? We are still deciding between them. Any feedback would be wonderful!
Callie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Mon 01/31/2005
Antiques in the UK
We will be going on our first trip to the UK in the fall. Primarily England and Scotland. The main places we'll be going are London, Bath, York, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Ayr. I'm interested in some great places to antique shop. Anyone got some great ideas? Thanks!!
Kelly Buchanan <email>
Seattle, Wa USA Sun 01/30/2005
Train va Plane
Dean Jackson~~~I would go on the train, and get the least expensive one. By taking the train you are able to travel at night and not losing a time sight seeing during the day.
Oh USA Sun 01/30/2005
FLORENCE OR SIENA
Linda...depends on whether you like the large city (Florence) or the convenience and friendliness of a small town (Siena). I will choose Siena every time.
A . W. E.
ST LOUIS, USA Sun 01/30/2005
OVERNIGHT TRAIN TRAVEL
Larry has a right to his opinion just as Hermann has. Most of what we read here is opinions. Flying always takes less time than the train and if you are concerned with time, flying is better than the train. If he wants opinion, Dean Jackson can make up his own mind .
DOROTHY T.
CO USA Sun 01/30/2005
Overnight train travel
I really hate to see people like Hermann W. make unsupported statements like "avoid the train". He should first examine the facts. In this case, I think he would see that the train is a better option.The train is really far less expensive. A private, 2 person compartment, at worst, is only a little more per person (€129) than real cost (€111) of flying, and that doesn't include what you save on a hotel room. There are also ways (Spar Night) to spend even less on a private room on the train. You can save even more with a couchette or reclining seat.Flying takes 4 1/2 hours, minimum, right out of the prime sightseeing time of day, whereas, with the train, you use time you would have been spent in your room and sleeping anyway.No, analyze your options; you will take the train.
Larry <email>
CO USA Sun 01/30/2005
Linda - Florence or Siena
I love Siena way more than Florence but the transportation out of Florence is far better - train or bus to Siena, S. Gimignano, Cortona, Assisi, Pisa, Lucca, on and on. I would choose Florence for that reason (If you're driving, Siena!)
Linda also <email>
GC, PA USA Sun 01/30/2005
Britain Cider Country
We would like to do a long weekend in "cider country" in Britain. We have limits on the length of our vacations right now. How long would be needed to do "cider country" correctly? We love hard cider and have tried a few from Britain and France, as well as a couple of good brands made here in the US.
Debbie Frazier <email>
Jeffersonville, IN USA Sun 01/30/2005
WINE TOUR DAY TRIPS PARIS
STEWART....do a google.com search for “Wine tasting tours Paris”. And do the same for the other two regions. There is a lot of info on the web if you search for it.
HARVEY McW
jersey city , nj USA Sun 01/30/2005
Florence or Siena??
I'm planning a 10 day first trip to Italy (first trip without kids too) with my husband. I was going to reserve 3 nights in either Florence or Siena. We will go to both no matter where we stay but does anyone have an opinion about which place makes the nicer homebase for 3 nights?
Linda <email>
Ashland, OR USA Sun 01/30/2005
CLASSICAL CONCERTS ROME FLORENCE
Shari....you can find some schedules on the net, but churches don’t normally have a webpage. If you don’t get an answer here, ask when you arrive in Rome and Florence how to find out. There should be a phone number for the cathedrals.
CAROLE S.
LAMAR, CO USA Sun 01/30/2005
Wine Shipping from Italy
Does anyone have any suggestions on shipping wine back from Italy?
Garry <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Sun 01/30/2005
First time Europe
Sally.....I echo the comments of others....spend a week in Paris! That should be enough to satiate your appetite this first time around, and give you ideas about what to see when you return (because you will return!)Then check out www.easyjet.com for cheap flights to other cities. They fly from CDG-Roissy and Orly to numerous places, and fares are pretty cheap. Nice, Barcelona, and Madrid are just three of the destinations you can try. Just make sure you come back the night before your flight leaves, so you don't miss your connection back to the States! A good, cheap hotel at CDG-Roissy airport outside Paris (likely where you're flying from) is The Ibis Paris Roissy at 66 Euros per night...shuttle to and from the terminals. It's at http://www.accorhotels.com/accorhotels/fichehotel/gb/ibi/0815/fiche_hotel.shtml This company also has a series of budget hotels, Formule 1 that are even cheaper -- but washrooms and showers are down the hall.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, ON Canada Sun 01/30/2005
German Soldier Memorials
Where are the soldier memorials in Germany? I've seen only one in a Munich park of a single German soldier in repose. It's originally from WWI-- then after WWII was converted into a memorial for the soldiers of both wars.
Christina <email>
Bay Area, CA USA Sun 01/30/2005
Chamonix/Annecy Accomodations
My husband and I will be traveling to the Chamonix/Annecy area in May. Could anyone suggest a nice place to stay that will be kind to our budget? Thanks - Patti
Patti <email>
Ann Arbor, MI USA Sun 01/30/2005
Hotel in Naples for 6:00 am Flight
We have a 6:00 am flight out of Naples May 30. We will have been staying in Sorrento for the previous week. Rick has a suggestion of Hotel Guiren and we have heard NOT to stay at Hotel Gineva. Both of which are about 2 blocks from the train station (shuttles to the airport). I doubt Hotel Guiren has a shuttle to the airport. Any suggestions are accepted. Not staying for atmosphere and probably will arrive late afternoon so no sightseeing involved in Naples. Safe, clean and close to airport shuttles. Much appreciation.
Lindy <email>
Farmington, NM USA Sun 01/30/2005
Re: Backpack/Daypack
My husband and I have traveled twice now to Europe with both of us taking our backpacks with zip-on daypack as carry-ons. We are able to zip-up the bulky straps, so usually carry the bags on with the side handle rather than wearing them on our backs. We have taken the daypack on the plane both zipped or carried on as the second carry-on without a problem. We try to be as "discreet" as we can. Good luck.
Susan
Atlanta, GA USA Sun 01/30/2005
Hotel near Forli Airport
Can anyone suggest a hotel near Forli Airport (Italy)? We are looking for something convinent for a late night arrival and an early morning departure.Thanks,John
John <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sun 01/30/2005
OVERNIGHT TRAIN TRAVEL
Dean Jackson...check the discount airlines and avoid the train. There are many lines operating now, but few fly the route you need. You can try Germania airlines at www.gexx.de/gexx. They fly Rome to Munich You will find the one-way fare to be 88 Euros.
HERMANN W.
DETROIT, USA Sun 01/30/2005
Carry on back pack with zip off day pack
Has anyone had experience with the carry on backpacks that have a zip off daypack? Most airlines will take a carry on and one accessory bag. Zipped off, is the day pack accepted as an accessory bag? Any reviews of the different brands or suggestions? Thanks
Mary <email>
WI USA Sun 01/30/2005
overnite train travel
My wife and I will be taking an overnite train from Rome to Munich this spring. Should we go 1st class or get a sleeper compartment ? This trip will take about 11 hours.
Dean Jackson <email>
alton, va USA Sun 01/30/2005
"Staying Put"
About "staying put", everyone has a different travel style that they really need to discover for themselves. We are pretty high energy travelers and find ourselves restless if we stay in one spot more than three days. Now, I don't know about country-hopping that frequently, but we've found that several days in any given region of a country is just about right. Just food for thought for those out there trying to decide their own destination(s)/itinerary(s).
GCP
CO USA Sat 01/29/2005
See more
Paul n Sara... I couldn't agree more. While in college my wife took a "bird's eye" (if this is Tuesday it must me Belgium) tour of Europe. Every day a different city, another town square. She can't remember anything except the bus.See a few places thouroughly. You will spend a lot less time traveling, more time sightseeing, and you will enjoy and remember it better.
Larry <email>
CO USA Sat 01/29/2005
RE: First trip to Europe
Sally -- It's true that there's plenty to see and do in fabulous Paris, but I can see where you might want more variety in your 2 weeks on your first trip. We spent a week in Paris and a week in Provence last summer and had time to do a lot at a relaxed pace. I'd recommend that combo as a good way to experience two very different parts of France while easing in to European travel. It's easy to take the TGV to Avignon, and you can choose a town near there to make your home base for a week. While your original itinerary ideas seem way too much to cram into 2 weeks, Paris and Provence would be easy and give you a variety of urban and countryside experiences. Happy planning!
Kristin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Sat 01/29/2005
good advice
we went to rome, but before we left we asked our tour co many questions and we were glad we did and we were glad we wnet with them. they answer all questions. my advice for rome is to look into the eyes of the drivers when you are crossing the street. the tours co is angeltoursrome.combob
bob <email>
rome, london USA Sat 01/29/2005
classical concerts Rome/Florence
Does anyone know how to find scehedules for classical concerts in churches in Rome and Florence? I'll be there in April and May and want to know what is being offered.Thanks!
Shari
San Jose, CA USA Sat 01/29/2005
Re: Milan to Cinque Terre
We took the milk run train from Genoa to the Cinque Terre and enjoyed it a lot. The train was full of locals going about their business. By the way the destination listed for the train from Milan to Genoa is Imperia, not Genoa. (At least in was in 2001).
Phil <email>
Tampa, FL USA Sat 01/29/2005
See More by Staying Put Once There
If this is your first time and you have linited time there, stay put!!! Visit one or maybe two places ( like London or Paris or Rome with nearby sights). If you try to do a lot of travel in a short period, you will need a vacation when you get back home. We had 42 days but we spent 34 in Italy-- and visited only 8 cities there. Pace is very important . A fast pace can ruin your adventure by making you tired and feeling rushed-- and you will miss SO much. Enjoy Europe and do more on your NEXT trip.
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport , MA USA Sat 01/29/2005
Thistle Kensington Hotels
Candace- We stayed at the Thistle Kensington Palace (which is across Hyde park from TK Gardens), and it was a perfectly nice hotel. Room was average, the concierge service was good, the location is great (we loved Hyde park), and the restaurant for breakfast was fine. We thouroughly enjoyed our stay there and would do so again.
Pat
Fort Wayne, IN USA Sat 01/29/2005
Ireland with a 20-month-old?
My husband and I are debating whether we should go to Dublin, Ireland, with our son this coming fall (when he would be about 20 months old). Has anyone been to Ireland with a toddler and would you have any suggestions? We had a stroller/backpack combo, but he grew out of it (being over 20 lbs). We would just like some feedback and encouragement (if you have it!). Thanks.
Pat <email>
Fort Wayne, IN USA Sat 01/29/2005
Easy Jet
We will be flying Easy Jet from Edinburgh to Gatwick--our first experience with EJ. How strict are the weight requirements? How much are fees for over weight? We expect to travel as light as possible but we will be visiting the potteries in Stoke on Trent on our drive to Scotland. I know that china can be shipped but it is about $50 at each pottery and I expect to purchase small items that could add up in weight.
Susan <email>
Atl, USA Sat 01/29/2005
Wine Tour Day Trips from Paris?
Can anyone recommend companies/websites for wine tasting day trips from Paris to the Loire and Champagne regions? Thanks.
Stewart <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 01/29/2005
Paris to Amsterdam by train
Look at the Thalys website, www.thalys.com. The least expensive RT is €86,70 (about $115). This ticket has to be purchased as a RT, and at that fare the number are limited. You can purchase tickets in advance on the Thalys website, but only for delivery in France, Belgium, Netherlands, or Germany.It doesn't seem worthwhile to spend over $100 and nine hours of travel to get maybe 6 hours of sightseeing in Amsterdam. I would spend the day in Paris and save Amsterdam for another trip.If you can live with the possibility of not going, wait until your first day in Paris and see if tickets are available for one of your days.If you must go and are afraid of the low fares selling out, you can purchase a ticket with a confirmed reservation from one of the stateside ticket agents (RailEurope, for example, charges $130 per RT ticket plus $22 fees per order). For alternative train times, go to www.bahn.de. Under modes of transport, "standard search" will only show Thalys, but if you select "without ICE" you can see other trains. They take about 8 hours each way.
USA Sat 01/29/2005
Paris to Amsterdam, and back, by Train
So the quickest way from Paris to Amsterdam by train is on the Thalys. What is the price for the Thalys, and is it discounted if you buy a roundtrip ticket? How much is a "regular" train from Paris to Ams & how long does it take? The 4:11 it takes for the trip on the Thalys is appealing, because I'd like to do the roundtrip in a day, but the cost might be prohibitive. thanks!
Rebecca
NY, NY USA Sat 01/29/2005
first Europe trip
Sally~~~I totally agree with Imogene--you will find so much to see & do in Paris. Also you can do a day trip to Chartres. The Rodin Gallery is great and also many people miss Napoleon's Tomb and the museum there which is fascinating. The Catacombs are quite interesting too. You will not run out of things to see in 2 wks.
Nancy
Ga USA Sat 01/29/2005
May 1 in Rome
May 1 is Labour day in Italy, but busses, subways and taxis still are in operation, on a Sunday schedule. Most museums and stores are closed, but it's not a problem: just do as the Romans do, take a walk, enjoy the spring sunshine, or (for the brave of heart) check out the rock concert at S. Giovanni in Laterano.
Morgan <email>
Rome, Italy Sat 01/29/2005
FIRST TIME IN EUROPE
First time EuropeSally~~~~When you price the flights to those other places , you will decide to stay close to Paris. I suggest day trips to Versailles and Fountainbleu. Spend the rest of your time in the city ; there is far more there to enjoy than you can see in two weeks.
IMOGENE
EL PASO, USA Fri 01/28/2005
SCENIC SWISS RAIL JOURNEY
Stephanie~~~My wife and I rode the Glacier Express and learned not to pay the premium price for the ride. You can buy a point-to-point ticket on that same route for half the cost. They sell the name GLACIER EXPRESS more than the views. Just ask the clerk at the ticket window for point-to-point tickets.
McDowelle
Chicago, USA Fri 01/28/2005
CHRISTMAS IN ITALY
Fraser....I spent the month of December in S Italy and couldn't ask for better weather. Not much rain and sunny days. You might not be so lucky, but I would bet you will like it. The northern part into the Alps will be cold.
BEVERLY C.
TULSA, USA Fri 01/28/2005
DRIVING IN E EUROPE
Sunny...Driving in E Europe is quite different. For one thing the signs are much harder to read and speed limits are not always posted. Just slow down when you go through villages and towns. I have driven in Poland, Czech Rep., Slovakia and Hungary. They are all about the same...poor roads, no shoulders, lack of signing. Reserve a car for the East. Be sure your rental agency allows you to drive your car in the East because some don’t and others restrict the models they will allow in the East. They can fine you if you violate their regulations.Read your contract before you sign it.
WILLHELM
NYC, USA Fri 01/28/2005
Ireland and Scotland & where in Germany
Going to Ireland and Scotland.... what's the best transportation between the two....first time planning the trip all advice of where to hit Germany and France greatly appreciated..... looking for cheap tickets Unsure where to go
Kirsten <email>
Boston, MA USA Fri 01/28/2005
Paris to Bayeux via Train Question
Paris to Bayeux Train Questions: We are landing in Paris from the USA (Charles D Airport). What train station would we need to goto to take the the train to goto Bayeux? Is it reccommended that we have train passes in advance or could we just walk up and buy them at the station?Any help would really be appreciated. Many thanks.
joseph ciccarone <email>
philadelphia, pa USA Fri 01/28/2005
Hotels in London
My husband and I are planning a trip to London in May. I wondered if anyone has stayed at, or has an opinion regarding, either the Thistle Kensington Gardens Hotel or the Somerset Bayswater Hotel. Any advice would be greatly appreciated
Candace <email>
Evergreen, CO USA Fri 01/28/2005
London trip - Chemical Allergies
My husband and I are (hopefully)heading for London in March 2005. This is the first time in 20 years I'll be in Europe because I've developed really difficult allergies to construction chemicals/materials like formaldehyde, paint, glue, synthetic carpets etc. I really need to find a place to stay in central London that has hardwood floors in the bedroom and no repainting, etc. for at least a couple years. Have googled/browsed London hotel/B&B sites for days and days with no luck. Anybody know of such a place in central London? Many thanks
Liz <email>
Seattle, WA USA Fri 01/28/2005
Quiet Hotel
Amanda - We stayed at Hotel Beaugency in the Rue Cler area and had no problem with noise. www.hotel-beaugency.com I always travel with ear plugs, which work great. I prefer the foam cylinder type over the cone-shaped ones. They've worked wonders in blocking out street noise and hallway noise.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 01/28/2005
Hotel in Paris
Amanda~~Hotel Leveque is a great place to stay. They are on Rue Cler. A single is 57E ($74.00) a double/twin is 87E ($93.00). Their website is www.hotell-leveque.com
Robin <email>
Oh USA Fri 01/28/2005
quiet hotel?
Hi, I am looking for a hotel in Paris for May of this year and in the reviews of the ones I've been looking at say "paper-thin walls", "can hear everything".
Is there such thing as a hotel in Paris that has some soundproofing that costs under $200/night in an area not too far from the sites? Or am i dreaming? haha
thanks...
Amanda <email>
Philly, USA Fri 01/28/2005
To Eric re: Planning forTrain Travel in Italy
Eric: I believe that you are, as you say, over-thinking this. Do make arrangements for your rental car before your trip, but don’t worry too much about the train travel part. Point to point train tickets in Italy are cheap and can be easily purchased the day of travel. If you would feel more comfortable having seat reservations (not generally necessary), they can be purchased up until a couple hours before departure. I would recommend using the Trenitalia site for planning. It will give you a good idea of your options on any given route. I would also recommend buying your tickets point to point instead of as a pass, and definitely waiting until you are in Italy to get them. Try using the ticket machines at the major train stations. They are easy to use, take credit cards, will give instructions in English, and cut out a lot of time wasted standing in lines.
Angela
USA Fri 01/28/2005
Decimal Point
In continental Europe, a comma is used to separate decimals, but not in the UK. The British do as the Americans. Also note that groups of three digits, which are separateds by commas in the US are separated either by dots or blanks (spaces) depending on the country. In some countries (ie. France, Sweden), it will be 1 123 456,00 - in other (ie. Germany, Denmark), it's 1.123.456,00, but in the UK (and in the US), it's 1,123,456.00
Chrismo1
Denmark Fri 01/28/2005
Registering with the police
I believe, this is taken care of by the hotel. This is why hotels always ask for passports in Italy. I think they hand over the passport informartion to the police.
Chrismo1
Denmark Fri 01/28/2005
Driving in Eastern Europe
Planning a vacation in Europe in May and June for 6-8 weeks with my wife and 2 children. Will be renting/leasing a car.Planning to go from Germany-Austria-
Switzerland-Italy-Eastern Europe and back to Germany.Have driven in France and Germany before. Not sure How it's like to drive into Eastern Europe. Any advice?Thanks
Sunny <email>
Vancouver, AB Canada Thu 01/27/2005
Christmas in Italy
Looking for comments/suggestions/advice about Christmas in Italy. Best weather - I'm Canadian, so warm is relative!
Fraser <email>
Edmonton, Ab Canada Thu 01/27/2005
Italy Rail N Drive / Trenitalia
Confused traveler....please bear with me.
First of all I would like to know if anyone has done the Italy Rail N Drive package before? and if so, what are your thoughts. I'm running the numbers on the trains/rental cars I will be taking and it seems as though I will be over spending by $100-$150 for 1st class accomodations. Is there any great benefit to buying this pass now, or just putting it together on my own. I want the car for Tuscany and Amalfi and I only need the train for about 4 days, which makes the pass perfect, but the costs don't make sense. Is it difficult to buy as you go? Will I need to make train reservations considering I'm traveling in March? What are your thoughts?
Secondly, I'm looking at the Rail Europe site, where I would purchase the Rail N Drive and checking out the train routes. Why do they differ from Trenitalia's routes? That may be a dumb question, but I'm confused on how this train system works. Should I be planning my trip from the Trenitalia site? I think I'm over thinking this, but basically, I need to be schooled on Italy Rail Travel.
Thanks in advance!
Eric <email>
CA USA Thu 01/27/2005
Late trains from Interlaken
Lori---the short answer is "no". According to www.Bahn.de, the last train between Interlaken and Mürren (connecting in Lauterbrunnen) leaves Interlaken at 22:20. There is not another until 6:30 am. Even if you could get to Gimmelwald in the middle of the night, you would not be able to get into your accomodations. You better plan to spend the night in Interlaken---and you'll have to look around for accomodations that will bbe open that late for you. Good luck.
Lura
Seattle, WA USA Thu 01/27/2005
Apartment in Nafplio/Nauplia
I will be spending a week in Nafplio in the Peloponnese with my family. Because we will be a reasonable sized group (8 people), we would love to stay in an apartment, rather than a hotel. Having been to Nafplio before, we know about the various hotels there. Is anyone aware of any apartments in the town of Nafplio?
Laura <email>
Sydney, NSW AUS Thu 01/27/2005
Scenic Swiss Rail Journey
Will be in Switzerland in May & want to do one or two of the scenic Swiss rail journeys, Bernina or Glacier Express. Any opinions or recommendtions.
Stephanie <email>
Al USA Thu 01/27/2005
Arriving in Interlaken after midnight
We are traveling from Cinque Terre area to Interlaken. We are opting for a late train that will not arrive until after midnight. Will we be able to get transportation up to Gimmmelwald?
Lori <email>
Austin, TX USA Thu 01/27/2005
Re: Ryanair
While commas and periods are sometimes interchanged in Europe and on websites, your first impression is correct, it would be 124 Euro for the flight. (If there are two characters after the comma or period its "cents", three would be euros) Fees and taxes should be stated, but normally it would be another 15 Euro or so per ticket. Yes, you can get incredibly cheap fares from Ryanair (and Easyjet and a number of other carriers), the key is being able to take advantage of their specials, flying on off days, flying at odd hours, and booking early. If you were to book much closer to your departure, and pick prime flying times, the ticket price increases substantially. Make sure that you review their rules regarding check in times and baggage limits. They are very strict regarding baggage size and weight, charging steeply for overweight baggage.
Paul <email>
IA USA Thu 01/27/2005
Paris
Sally~~~what about Paris? If you have never been surely Paris is worth 4 days or so--there is much to see!
Janie
USA Thu 01/27/2005
First time Europe
I'm planning a 2 week trip to Europe (my 1st time) in March. I'm flying into Paris. I want to see and do as much as possible and am unsure how to best spend my time. I was thinking of spending the 1st week driving through the Loire, Dordogne, & Arles/Avignon. From there, I want to fly/rail to either Spain or Italy for a few days in search of good weather. Does this seem doable? Or is it too much? Would I be better off (in terms of time) just sticking to France? Am I overlooking anything?
Sally <email>
WA USA Thu 01/27/2005
Registering with the Italian Police
From the official travel website of the U.S. State Dept. (http://travel.state.gov), "Under Italian law, tourists are required to register with a local police station and obtain a "permesso di soggiorno" (permit to stay) within eight working days of their arrival, regardless of the intended length of stay."
I doubt that the law is widely enforced, but it is the law.
I also saw another website imply that if you have your passport stamped at the airport by the immigration police, that meets the requirement. I cannot confirm the authenticity of that site.
Larry <email>
CO USA Thu 01/27/2005
Ryanair fares
I am confused about the airfares quoted on Ryanair's website. They are incredibly cheap; some are 1.99 E, some are 25.99 E, some are free with taxes and fees. I got a quote for 123.99 E for 3 people to fly from Paris to Rome. Is this 1,240.00 E or 124.00 E? I'm confused because I thought in Europe, periods were commas, and commas decimal points. Please advise.
June
USA Thu 01/27/2005
REGISTERING AT POLICE STATION IN ITALY
Kathy ...you do not have to register with the police. Verify with the person you rent your apartment from. I have been to Italy many times and never even thought of registering.
CHARLES W.
TULSA, USA Thu 01/27/2005
Paris - Roubaix- Paris Bike Race
I will attend this year's race. Any suggestions for a great vantage point? I thought that the Roubaix turnaround point might be the best.
Bob <email>
Gettysburg, PA USA Thu 01/27/2005
Where to leave day pack for Scavi visit
I have reservations to visit the Scavi Excavation site under St Peter's Basilica. Among other things on the notice was "It is the responsibility of the visitors to drop off any bulky objects prior to coming to the Excavations Office". Can someone tell me is there a designated spot or do you know of a place near there where I could check a day pack? Or is a day pack acceptable? Thanks.
Mary <email>
WI USA Thu 01/27/2005
Diving in Italy
My family is going to Rome, Florence, and Venice in May and am looking for a good place to dive. We are willing to travel to either coast between the areas if we can find some good dive spots.
Jeri <email>
Mi USA Thu 01/27/2005
I just read in my "Lets Go Italy" book (several years old) that " there is no admission charge to sights and museums for those under 18 or over 60". Does anyone know if this is true or not?
USA Wed 01/26/2005
registering at Police Station in Italy revisited
To the person from Seattle Wash. who had answers (yes I'm still reading for answers :-)) regarding registering at the local police station in Italy once arriving - thanks. As luck will have it, we will be staying in apartments and a villa for our entire stay (13 days) in Italy. So, the proprieter will not be able to register us. Do we then just do it ourselves? Any thoughts there?
Kathy Zerby
New Brighton, MN USA Wed 01/26/2005
Warsaw during Easter Weekend
We're going to Warsaw over Easter weekend this year and I was wondering if anyone has had any Easter experiences in Warsaw or anywhere else in Poland for that matter. I have already come to the conclusion that due to the devout nature of most Poles that most of the city will be shut down during that weekend, but I think it would be awesome to spend the last day of our trip celebrating Mass at a Polish cathedral. If anyone has any thoughts, please share them with me.
CXGBoy <email>
USA Wed 01/26/2005
Nice, France - Beachfront accomodations
Recommendations for beachfront accomodations in Nice in April 2005? $100-$200/night?
Sheila <email>
Newport Beach, CA USA Wed 01/26/2005
Venezia to Cinque Terre
Eric... Bahn.de has some distinct advantages vs. the official Italian Rail site, www.trenitalia.com. You can force it to give you local train schedules, which take longer but cost less. Also, using "via" you can specify the route. However, Trenitalia has fare prices for the trains they do show! Those are important, particularly if you are evaluating point-point tickets vs. a rail pass or just budgeting.
Larry <email>
CO USA Wed 01/26/2005
Wells Cathedral
Susan~~Yes, definitelly go to Wells Cathedral, is fantastic. While in the cathedral make sure you see the mediecal astronomical clock. Another village you might want to consider is Castle Combe the movie Dr. Doolittle, was filmed there. It is a very beautiful village. Other villages in the Cotswold area that are worth seeing,
Burford, Bourton-on-the-Water (while there see the scale model of the village, it's at the Old New Inn),Upper and Lower Slaaughter, Stow-on-the-Wold, Broadway, Chipping Campden. Right outside Woodstock village is Blemhiem Palace birthplace of Winston Churchill, it should be seen. There are so many small beautiful villages in that area that which ever ones you go to I'm sure you won't be disappointed. Have a great trip.
Robin <email>
Oh USA Wed 01/26/2005
Venezia to Cinque Terre
Eric--If you go to Rick's Links, under Deutsche Bahn you can try different city connections....for example, try Venezia S.Lucia to Vernazza. Then compare that with Venezia S. Lucia to Firenze S.M.N. with a 6 minute (or over an hour) connection from Firenze to Vernazza to see which one works best for you. I print out a selection of times and take the print-out with me. (You didn't say if you were leaving from Santa Lucia or Mestre station or which of the Cinque Terre you want to go to....?
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Wed 01/26/2005
Alpieagles
Perhaps you could not find them because their name is Alpieagles (note the "S"). Go to www.alpieagles.com/en/contatti.htm. They list a phone number, fax number, and email address.
Strangely, alpieagle.com is a website listing low cost ticket sellers, but Alpieagles is not one of them.
Larry
CO USA Wed 01/26/2005
VENICE TO CINQUE TERRE
Eric~~~~~You wont have to make that decision until you buy your ticket at the RR station. Ask the clerk to print an itinerary for you showing departure times , arrival times, towns where you change trains, train numbers and platforms. Having that document made train travel more comfortable for me. One route is not more scenic than another; a lot will depend on the length of time you have to travel and the clerk will know travel time. Some Italian trains stop at all the towns. The clerk will know all about it and make deciding much easier for you; you don’t have to do it before you go. No need to buy tickets here; they are cheaper in Italy. When you buy them here you always pay a handling fee to someone for the convenience of carrying them with you. If you plan to reserve seats, do it as early as you can after you arrive in Italy.
WHILAMINA
RENO, USA Wed 01/26/2005
Venice to Cinque Terre
I will be traveling from Venice to Cinque Terre. I need some advice on the best route to take. Do I go through Milan then to Genoa, or go through Florence to La Spezia route? Also, if you do have a route in mind, how many stops and train changes were there. Any opinions would be greatly appreciated.....Thanks
Eric <email>
Costa Mesa, CA USA Wed 01/26/2005
LUTON OR STANSTED AIRPORTS
Leslie ....you may have a problem finding an discount air line flying from London to Milan and Lake Como. Try, applefares.com, and
easyjet.com, ryanair.com,flybmi.com, basiqair.com, apodo.co.uk, maerskair.com, skyeurope.com.
Applefares lists a flight for 65.98 British Pounds. About $122.
Compared with most fares, this sounds like a bargain to me.
There may be other discount fares. You should take time to search these web pages.
STEPHANO
NYC, USA Wed 01/26/2005
England
We will be getting our car at Gatwick and driving by Stonehenge & Avebury and plan to stay the first night in Wells since we have already been to Bath on a previous trip--on to the Cotswolds after Wells. Is this a good place to visit? The Cathedral there sounds worthwile to see and we would squeeze in a side trip to Glouctenbury & Cheddar. Any thoughts or advice?TIA!
Susan <email>
Atl, USA Wed 01/26/2005
Italian Airline
David~~~Sorry I don't have any website info for you but this sounds reason for concern. You need to resolve this problem quickly. Fortunately you are only responsible for $50 on your CC. Can you find another airline--very alarming that they do not respond to your emails.
Nancy
Ga USA Wed 01/26/2005
alpieagle italian airlines
Does anyone have a www or fax # to reach Alpieagle, a low-cost airline based in Italy? I can't crack the internet for this. I ordered a cheap ticket from them and gave my VISA #. My VISA account was promptly charged but no confirmation/e-ticket has come, this after two months of e-mailing them. I'm scared silly that I'll show up at the Alpieagle counter at Naples and they will have no record of me. Thanks. Dave in Minnesota
david johnson <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Wed 01/26/2005
Currency trades--Least expensive ??
Has anyone had experience with XETrade for converting money?(https://www.xe.com/fx/ )
They claim to be the least expensive-- "Guaranteed"!).
Chris <email>
Norridgewock, ME USA Wed 01/26/2005
Kathy: Passport Requirements for Italy
Hi Kathy, I hope you are still reading answers. I work in the travel industry and it IS true that travelers must register with local police when visiting Italy. However, this is done for you without you even knowing it when you hand your passport over to the proprietor of your hotel/hostel/b&b, whatever. No need for you to go to the police yourself as long as you're staying at an established property. Hope this helps clear things up.
Seattle, WA USA Wed 01/26/2005
Nice hotel/B&B in Paris
I am looking for a nice hotel or B&B in Paris. Any ideas?Marie
Marie <email>
Houston, TX USA Wed 01/26/2005
Eating out affordably in Iceland
A group of college students are flying to Paris via Iceland and we hear meals in Iceland are very pricey? Any tips on good, affordable food near Reycheivik? (Forgive the spelling!) Corinne
Corinne Zellner <email>
Summerfield, FL USA Wed 01/26/2005
Carry on for Alitalia
Does anyone know if Alitalia is extremely strict on the size of a carry on. I got the dimensions from their website and it is very small. We are planing on backpacking and we did not want to check any luggage. Just wondering. Thanks so much.
Erica <email>
Scranton, PA USA Wed 01/26/2005
Paris temps
The average temperatures in Paris during Jan/Feb are 34 (low) and 44 (high) degrees F. The average number of rain days is 14 for each month. The latitude north is about Chicago's so the weather is similar to or a bit more moderate (Parisiens are not likely to have a 10 inch snow fall, but they will have cloudy and rainy winters) than Chicago's The length of daylight/night hours is similar. On the internet, you can find daily weather and 10-day weather forcasts and a color coded up to date weather map of Europe by going to meteo123.com The site is in French (what else?)but has descriptive graphics to show you that peu nuageux means a little cloudy, and averses means storms, etc. Temps are in degrees C, but there is an easy to use converter. Autres villes will give you other cities in France and/or Europe.
Harvey <email>
Il USA Tue 01/25/2005
Hotels in London
Nancy~~no, it isn't standard practice for the hotel to require a minimum length of stay. I have been in London several times over a Bank Holiday and that never happened to us. I would suggest you try several hotels before deciding where to stay.
Robin <email>
Oh USA Tue 01/25/2005
Amanda on Budgeting
You can arrange for and pre-pay for transportation from London to Paris by train (Eurostar beginning at $90 round trip) or plane (check Graffiti Wall "flying around Europe). Subway (underground) passes can be bought in London for one day or a week. Ditto in Paris. Paris has a popular museum pass for one, three, or five days. This saves money if you visit lots of museums. Check other web-sites for train schedules and rates. Check Rick Steves' books.
Swan
USA Tue 01/25/2005
Wales self-drive packages, sights, and other tips
My friend and I enjoyed a fly/self-drive/B&B Ireland package in fall 2003 and would like to do a similar trip around Wales in April 2005,probably flying into Manchester (though flexible). Sadly, there is no Rick guide specifically for Wales. I would appreciate any suggestionsfor Wales fly/self-drive/B&B packages, and also any favorite sights, B&Bs orother recommendations throughout Wales. Thanks!
Liza <email>
Washington, DC USA Tue 01/25/2005
Bank Holidays
It is a common practice in the hotel industry to require a minimum night stay during periods of high demand (i.e. holidays). This helps hotels maximize revenue by taking in the guests willing to stay more nights. Many times they will also charge guests a fee for early check-outs to discourage guests from booking their 3 night minimum, for example, and checking out after only one night. (I teach hotel revenue management for a living :-) )
Julie
Omaha, NE USA Tue 01/25/2005
martel house, london
has anyone stayed at the martel house b&B in golden green area of london?
marla <email>
south lake tahoe, ca USA Tue 01/25/2005
Italian train travel
Nelson... There is an express shuttle going from Fiumicino to Roma Termini. It costs about €10 pP, takes 35 min and leaves every half hour. The station is just across the road from the terminals. There are also Metro trans into Rome for half that, but they don't go directly; you would have to make connections.
Larry
DO USA Tue 01/25/2005
bank holidays
Does anyone know if it is standard practice in UK to require 3 nights lodging because one day/night is a "bank holiday"? Our first choice of a B&B said 3 days mininum because of this holiday.
Nancy
Ga USA Tue 01/25/2005
ITALIAN TRAIN TRAVEL
Italian Train TravelNedson ~~~My wife and I are 80 and ride the trains in Italy. It your wife can speak some Italian you will have NO Trouble.~~~~ Everyone will be eager to help you find your platform, your car and your seat.~~~~ We have also flown in Italy so I can recommend flying if you can find an airport near your destination.~~~~ You will ride the train or a car the last leg of your trip. If you can afford it booking first class will help you at your age.~~~~ You will have to keep your luggage in the car with you and be sure to watch it carefully.~~~~ You can’t check luggage on the train.Plan to go to sleep as soon as you get on the train to recover from the flight.~~~~ Buy some snack food to eat because you cant afford the food on the train.~~~~ We always buy fruit, bread, cheese and bottled water. ~~~~Some times we share food with other travelers and have fun getting to know them.
RUDOLPHO W.
AUSTIN, TX USA Tue 01/25/2005
Gare Reims
HI!! I am going to France next month. I want to go from Paris to Reims to visit Pommery cave and from there to Strasbourg (in the evening). I want to know if I can leave my luggagge in the Reims Gare.
Nestor Scirocco <email>
Buenos Aires, Argentina Tue 01/25/2005
PARIS TEMPERATURE IN FEB
Simon....Go to www.franceway.com/w3/Travel/paris/generalhints/weather. It will give you the high and low temp for each month of the year.Anderson McGill OK
ANDERSON
McGill, OK USA Tue 01/25/2005
MEDICATIONS NOT IN BOTTLES
Susana ....I have traveled to Europe several times and never been asked about medication. I put it in my train case with cosmetics and carry on. It goes through the x-ray machine without a question. The only security you will SEE will be at your entry port, not in Italy.
MILDRED
DELUTH, USA Tue 01/25/2005
Italian Train Travel
My wife and I are planning a trip to Southern Italy in May to visit the village of her grandparents. We’ll fly into Rome - Fiumicino and currently plan to catch a train to Vibo Valentia and then on to a nearby small village via car. We’re both in our 60’s and have never ridden trains in Europe/Italy. Our questions do involve the trains:
1.Is there a train that goes directly from Fiumicino to the Roma Termini train station? Hints?
2.Ok, now we’re at the train terminal and we have our tickets – suggestions on finding the correct train/track? Travel Agent suggests booking first class and it appears that a Eurostar train leaves Roma Termini for Vibo Valentia/Pizzo. My wife does speak/understands a little Italian.
3.How does one check baggage or maintain security of baggage on the trains? i..e. while eating? It’s a 5 hour trip after the night flight from the US.
4.Is the train the better way or should we consider flying into a nearby airport via Alitalia?
Any other travel tips would be greatly appreciated.Thanks!
Nedson Crawford <email>
Charlotte, NC USA Tue 01/25/2005
info
I am looking for information on a room Camere Elisabetta in Vernazza It. Has anyone stayed there and what are the rooms and view like. She wants a personal check up front. It the place reiable. Thanks, Linda
Linda Nicodemus <email>
Roseville CA, CA USA Tue 01/25/2005
Budgeting
Any ideas on how to try and budget for a trip? My husband and I are spending 5 days in London and 4 days in Paris in May. We have already booked and paid for our airfare, reserved a room in London and trying to get one in Paris. Now I want to try and budget everything else? How are the rest of you handling this?thank you!
Amanda <email>
Philly, USA Tue 01/25/2005
Confused
Looks like you have 4 major days of travel with most in Germany and short stretches in Switzerland. The cheapest Eurail pass are 3 country 5 day, which is overkill. They run $316 pP ($950 total)!
Better to get a 4 day German Rail twin pass ($270 for 2 people) plus one sinlge 4 day German pass for $180 (unless the 3rd person is a youth). From the German/Swiss border to Luzern is about $25 each way per person. Total this way is $600, $200 per person.
As for point-point, a lot depends on the route and if you would be willing to ride regional trains, which take longer. Using a combination of Bavarian and Baden-Württemberg tickets and point-point tickets, the whole trip could be done for as little as $370 for three ($125 each).
Larry <email>
CO USA Tue 01/25/2005
Confused on Car or Rail Travel
Tanya - At this point, you'll have to do some legwork as to which is better, point-to-point tickets or various rail-passes. On the main page for the Rick Steves web site is a link for rail passes. I did see that there is a combo Austria-Switzerland pass that may work for you. For point-to-point tickets for Germany, check www.bahn.de and click on the blue "English" link all the way on the left. Don't know the URLs for the Austrian or Swiss rail systems. Or try the "Train Travelers' Tips" on the Graffiti Wall. Yes, there are quite a bit of options. You'll just have to gather them together and decide what's best for your itinerary.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 01/25/2005
Italian residence permit
I too have been to Italy several times, and never heard of a requirement to obtain a residence permit from the police station. However, I did look on the Italian Embassy Website (www.italyemb.org/Visti.htm) and they do state that even for stays of less than 90 days, visitors are required to obtain a residence permit from the local Police station within eight days of arrival. I was not able to find any additional information regarding this, but I assume that the passport information taken when you get a hotal room fulfills this requirement, or that enforcement is non-existent or lax.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 01/25/2005
Confused on Car or Rail Travel
Ok, so in purchasing a ticket then... I'm arriving in Frankfurt for one night then traveling to Munich, Salzburg, Luzerne and then back to Frankfurt, which ticket purchase would be my best choice for 3 travelers and for the best price? And thank you so much for the advice thus far!!!
Tanya
Houston, TX USA Tue 01/25/2005
Confused on Car or Rail Travel
Tanya - Yes, it can be a bit intimidating trying to figure the best transportation methods. As a general rule, DON'T drive in the big cities. The street layouts are confusing at best, and parking is a hassle. Street parking is almost impossible. When going between big cities, just take the train. It's easier and much more relaxing. When going to small towns, a car makes more sense. If you do want to keep your car while in a big city, find a parking garage and leave it there. With the excellent public transportation in most big cities, it's foolish to drive in them. Try picking up and dropping off your car at airports. It usually costs a little more, but since airports are usually far outside the big cities, you avoid the big city driving hassles.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 01/25/2005
Confused on Car or Rail Travel
This is my first trip to Europe. I will be traveling from Germany to Austria to Switzerland and would like to know if traveling by trail or renting a car would be a better choice for traveling in February? And if doing the rail system is better/safer/cheaper can you purchase a city to city travel ticket, like a bus ride or something.
Tanya
Houston, TX USA Tue 01/25/2005
Santorini Greece hotel reservations
I want to make a reservation at the Katikies Hotel for May 2005 but my travel agent says the hotel is not open until April 1st, not accepting reservations until that time and that I will have to wait until April 1st to try to reserve a room. I have had an internet communication from travel-guide-greece. com and also united-hellas that they can get us a room at that hotel for May. Is that possible? My travel agent says it's not. I am confused as to who to believe. I really would like to book a room at that hotel. Please advise.
Mary Moores <email>
Leominster, MA USA Tue 01/25/2005
Permit to Stay-Italy Passport/Visa
A permit to stay is required if you intend to stay in Italy longer than is allowed with your passport alone, ie if you intend to establish residency or have an extended stay.
bpwright
Fairmont, WV USA Tue 01/25/2005
ROME COOKING CLASS
Bill ...go to google.com and search for “Rome cooking classes”....or "Italian cooking classes."
MARDIANNE
TX USA Mon 01/24/2005
Ella Crag
anyone have any experience with Ella Crag's B&B in the Lake District of Great Britan?
Omar <email>
San Antonio, TX USA Mon 01/24/2005
Taking Rxs to Europe
As a pharmacist and an experienced traveler, on the question of taking meds with you I would suggest this. 1. Take the original bottle (or bag) with label on it. 2. Take quantities that double cover your stay. 3. Take copies with the GENERIC NAME, not the brand name. 4. I have been involved in two instances of customs stopping a traveler with their meds in plastic bags with NO label of any kind. Both doctors by the way. AND BOTH WERE WHEN THEY WERE RETURNING THRU US CUSTOMS. Remember, you have to come home and if you are inspected for any reason if your meds are not labeled you will have some explaining to do.
Charles M. Luther
USA Mon 01/24/2005
Cesky Krumlov
Need a place to stay in Cresky KrumlovEither B&B or Hotel. Also any local guide info would be helpful!!Thanks for your helpGary & Kelly
Gary Morris <email>
Pleasanton, Ca USA Mon 01/24/2005
Permit to stay in Italy
I'm sorry, but that sounds ridiculous. I've been to Italy 3x in the last 3 years, and NEVER have I heard of that. Perhaps if you had planned to move there they'd require a permit, but not to visit. That website must be very outdated. The EU has free travel within it's countries.
USA Mon 01/24/2005
Glamis Castle
Susan~~yes, there is a car park at Glamis Castle, the cost to tour the castle and grounds are adults 7.00BP, seniors 5.70BP. Hours is 10:00am~6:00pm, March~October. If you plan to tour the castle beware there are many steps and stairs involved.
Oh USA Mon 01/24/2005
Roman cooking class?
I want to take a cooking class in Rome ( just a one day thing). I have found them in Florence, but there doesn;t seem to be any info on Rome classes. Any ideas , leads would be appreciated.Thanks! Bill
Bill <email>
Chicago, IL USA Mon 01/24/2005
Passport requirements in Italy
A website about travel to Italy says that you have to get a Permit to Stay in that country from a police station within 8 days of arrival, no matter the length of stay - no matter what you are doing - travel or otherwise, no matter how long the stay. Anyone heard of this?
Kathy Zerby <email>
New Brighton, MN USA Mon 01/24/2005
Compostela de Santiago, Spain
My sister and I are planning a 10-14 pilgrimage walking tour from Leon to Santiago, Spain. I would like to speak to a few people who have taken this pilgrimage.
Nancy Montalvo <email>
San Diego, CA USA Mon 01/24/2005
Travel time
Someone in NY, NY.... The fastest scheduled train is 4 1/2 hours. There are six of them (Eurostar) per day going directly from Venice to Rome in 4:33. Both bahn.de and trenitalia.com show all of them.
Why do you suggest going to Eurorailways to get schedules? It has only a link to the Bahn website. Go there to start with. Better yet, go directly to trenitalia.com/en. Trenitalia shows not only the schedules, but accurate prices. You can buy a ticket for the Eurostar online from Trenitalia for about $60 pP, INCLUDING reservations and no shipping.
Larry <email>
CO USA Mon 01/24/2005
Re: Prescriptions
My wife takes several medications, and usually mixes or repackages them, with no problem. Take copies of the presription, if possible, or have your pharmacy print out what you take regularly (maybe even on labels). While I would not rely on it, one reason we have had no issues, is that other than x-ray, our bags are rarely searched, and then only for questions on items other than prescriptions.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 01/24/2005
Glamis Castle
We will be in Scotland in late May and plan to visit Glamis Castle. Will drive there from Pitlochry. Every thing I have read mentions taking a bus. Does that mean there is no carpark at Glamis? Would we have to leave the car in Dundee & take the bus? Thanks for any advice!
Susan <email>
Atl, USA Mon 01/24/2005
Affordable Rooms in Barcelona
I just came back from Barcelona and we stayed in the Meson Castilla with a rate of 62 euro per night for a double. Breakfast was add'l at 6 euro per person. The location was great just a few blocks off La Rambla. The hotel is old and rooms a bit small but comfortable and clean. I would stay there again. I got a good rate going to www.barcelonahotels.es.
New York, NY USA Mon 01/24/2005
Travel Time
The fastest scheduled is 5 to 5 1/2 hours. I believe you can take a 6AM out of Venice and arrive into Rome at 11 or 11:30am. You can also take over night trains. Go to www.eurorailways.com and you can get the different schedules.
New York, NY USA Mon 01/24/2005
Accomodations in Bristol
We've had a change of itinerary now that we've arrived in London and are looking for a nice but inexpensive place to stay in Bristol for Tuesday night. Any suggestions?Thanks! Kim
Kim <email>
USA Mon 01/24/2005
Moriah, Egypt Question
In Egypt, try to go to the temple of Seti in Abydos. It takes some effort to get there, but it is a beautifully preserved New Kingdom temple with some of the finest relief carving you'll see. You could go on a (long) day trip from Luxor, or you could stay at the Aluminum hotel in Nag Hammadi to have more time at the temple.
USA Sun 01/23/2005
May 1 holiday in Rome
I'm concerned about whether taxis, subway, buses are likely to be operating normally in Rome on the May 1 workers holiday.Has anyone had experience with this in earlier years?
Shari
San Jose, CA USA Sun 01/23/2005
Medications not in Rx bottles?
Because of the number of medications we need, I would like to put pills in smaller containers and bring along the bottle labels, pasted on a page of paper. We're going to Italy. Has anyone had problems with Rx meds that were not in original bottles?
Susanna
San Francisco, CA USA Sun 01/23/2005
Irish Self-catering
Hi - I am looking for self-catering accomadation in Ireland in the Dingle Peninsula area. Any suggestions? Any Ireland tips you would care to share would also be appreciated! Will be going for my first time in June.
Ruthann Wood <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Sun 01/23/2005
Paris Temperature in February
I'll be in Paris from mid February till the end of the month. I was wondering what do expect in the weather.
Simon <email>
Calgary, USA Sun 01/23/2005
THE PERFECT TUSCAN TOWN
Jeri...the best place for you to find the towns you describe will be in the five villages of Cinque Terre. Do a google.com search for Cinque Terre and read about that unique area. Pick on of the villages and stay there; hike to the others or ride the train (5 minutes) to the next village. You will find lots of good, fresh seafood and other Italian delicacies.
McWallendar
USA Sun 01/23/2005
BRUGGE
Ashley King~~~~I have read all the descriptions I can find of the Brugge railroad station~~~~ One name for it is Station Centrum (central) and the other name is Main Station~~~~ There is only one.
SANDRA W.
ST LOUIS, USA Sun 01/23/2005
Train fares in Italy
Susan... It is kind of hard for anyone to help you with the information you have given, 5 days of travel but only 3 legs? Learn to help yourself. Go to the website of Italian Rail, www.trenitalia.com/en, and learn to use it. Unfortunately, it is set up to give prices for ordering online right now, and it only does that for 2 month out, so you might have to fake the date as earlier, but the fares should be close if not exact.
Larry <email>
CO USA Sun 01/23/2005
USB Reader
Adhley... I'm not sure if you are referring to a jump drive or memory cards, but it probably doesn't matter. In March I was in Germany with my digital camera and computer. At one cybercafe, they were able to read the .jpg files off my CF card, and I could send my pictures home with my emails. At the next one, they could read files from my USB jump drive. The only thing, jump drives require their own drivers with Win98, but not with XP. I am not sure about 2000.
Larry <email>
CO USA Sun 01/23/2005
Train fares in Italy
Could anyone give me a rough estimate of how much it will cost me for train fare for 5 days travel between Milan to Cinque Terre to Venice and back to Milan? Either in Euros or USD. Just trying to get an idea of cost.Thanks
Susan <email>
PA USA Sun 01/23/2005
Bruges
Does anybody know the name of the main train station in Bruges? I am trying to get directions from there to our hostel but I don't know the name of the station.
Ashley King <email>
Victoria, B Canada Sun 01/23/2005
USB reader/writers
I just bought a Sandisc USB reader/writer to upload my digital pictures onto my computer. It's great, and I highly reccommend it to anyone else with a digital camera, but I was wondering if anybody knows whether or not it is compatible with computer systems in the UK. I leave in 9 days to live in London, and I would like to know if it will work. I know the camera itself is fine- it is PAL compatible, but the woman at the store didn't know if the computer outlet would be the same there as it is here in North America.Thanks!
Ashley King <email>
Victoria, BC Canada Sun 01/23/2005
Austria/Italy in April
Ater many trips to Austria, Bavaria and Italy (Sud Tirol/Alto Adige) in mid October, we were wondering how the weather will differ in late April. Also, any airfare/car rental tips would be greatly appreciated. We are looking to fly from NJ/NY to Munich. Thanks.
Paul <email>
Netcong, NJ USA Sun 01/23/2005
Paris and the Easter Bunny
I will be in Paris for Easter and was wondering if all businesses closed up for the holiday or what. I have a large group I'm traveling with and we're all wondering if any restaurants will be open. Also, are there any special events going on during that time? Thanks!
Oz <email>
USA Sun 01/23/2005
Inverness & Glasgow B&B search.
Any suggestions on where to stay, near Buchanan Bus station, will be appreciated. Visits in late April and early May, 2005. Thanks.
george <email>
Tampa, FL USA Sun 01/23/2005
London weather
London in early March will be, as you say, rainy and cool. Daytime temperatures will probably hover in the 45-55F range. Also, keep in mind that even when it's cool outside, the Tube can be absolutely stifling, especially when it's crowded, which it so often is. So you'll probably want to leave your heavy winter coat at home.
Peter
Amsterdam, NL Sun 01/23/2005
London temps
Hey...I am travelling London for the first week of March (so excited!) and was hoping someone could give me an idea of what kinds of tempatures to expect. I am thinking it'll be rainy and pretty cool, but am unsure at to whether I should take a full-blown winter jacket (like a wool peacoat) or something lighter.
hre <email>
USA Sun 01/23/2005
Thanks - I've added an email account
I listed an itinerary help request last night and thankfully someone suggested that I put my email in here and that I use a yahoo.com type if I was nervous of spam (I was). Rather than list all of my itinerary info again I'm hoping that you'll look below to see the Great Britain trip that we are taking and the help that we need. We are going to be there about 3 weeks. Thanks!!!!
Kelly <email>
Seattle, Wa USA Sat 01/22/2005
Tuscany
Jeri~~~~There are so many wonderful towns in Tuscany. We liked Piensa & Greve. San Gimignano may be a good choice but seemed touristy during the day. We stayed in a villa near Castellina but the town was not especially charming. Also near Florence is Radda which is very nice and relaxing. Have a great trip!
Nancy
Ga USA Sat 01/22/2005
Montalcino, Italy
We are traveling to Italy in March and will be staying in Montalcino for a few nights. Any helpful tips would be appreciated. We are very interested in doing some wine tasting and have rented a car. Thanks
Patty <email>
Boulevard, CA USA Sat 01/22/2005
to Kelly of Seattle
You didn't post an e-mail address. Replies sent privately are normal on this board -- especially when you're looking only for itinerary ideas..... If you're reluctant to post your address, you might be better off browsing the Wall's archives using city names for your search keywords. Good luck.
DC
BC Can Sat 01/22/2005
Looking for the perfect Tuscan town
I'm looking for the best place to catch our breath in Tuscany after a hectic time in London and Rome and before we head to Florence, Venice, and back to London. We are looking for a quiet town that has history, shops with local art work, and good food. Any and all suggestions are welcome.
Jeri <email>
MI USA Sat 01/22/2005
Overnight in the Loire?
We are travelling to Paris in mid-Feb. and want to take an overnight excursion to the Loire Valley. Any recommendations for a unique place to spend one night (manor house, chateax, b&b, etc.). In addition, any recommendations on how to spend almost 2 full days in the Loire (we are planning on renting a car). Thx!
Stewart <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 01/22/2005
Joe, Travel in Piedmont
Joe, we love this part of Italy. Untouristy and very friendly.We had a car so don't know about train transportation.We have stayed at agriturismos near Barolo and LaMorra. Both were wonderful.LaMorra's was called Erbaluna. http://www.erbaluna.it/testi/A_erbaluna.htmThe area is full of great restaurants but our favorite was Bel Cite in LaMorra and La Cantinetta in Barolo. The owners of the bed and breakfast made reservations for us and we spent 3 wonderful hours eating. All of the small towns and villages in the area are fun to visit. Here is a web site which might be of help. www.wel.itHave a wonderful time!
pat
pa USA Sat 01/22/2005
GOODWILL THRIFT STORES
Janae Londo~~~~Your only hope for finding thrift stores in all those countries is to ask people you meet there how to find one~~~~ I have always found natives anxious to help me find specific locations in every country~~~~ The important thing is to find one near where you are.
ALEXANDEROWICH
CHICAGO, USA Fri 01/21/2005
STILL NEED HOTEL NEAR AIRPORT
Megan....look at this page:barcelona.airporthotelguide.com/airporthotels. After you pick one, Email them and ask if they have airport shuttle service.
O'REILLY
BOSTON, USA Fri 01/21/2005
Itinerary help to Great Britain - one more thing
I forgot to say that we'll have about 3 weeks or so for the trip.
Kelly
Seattle, Wa USA Fri 01/21/2005
Itinerary help to Great Britain
My partner and I will be going to GB next September. I have a friend that I will want to stay with in Ayr, Scotland for about 3-4 days. We also want to spend about 5 days in London, at least 2-3 ea in Glasgow and Edinburgh. We want to see as much as we can but still not feel absolutely harried. We figure we'll see London on the last part of the trip. We might do a day trip to Bath (spend our first night there?) and hit York also when heading north. We may skip Wales since we can't see it all on this first trip. Got any good ideas? We are going into and leaving from London. We figure we may do a combo train and car. Or perhaps rent a car when going north and then take Ryan Air back to London to finish the trip. Looking for advice. Thanks!
Kelly
Seattle, Wa USA Fri 01/21/2005
Still need -- Hotel near airport in Barcelona
My husband and I will be flying out of Barcelona at the ungodly hour of 6:45. I figure we need to be at the airport around 4 am. We will be travelling from Lleida on sunday. Could anyone recommend an affordable hotel near the airport? I have a hard time spending a lot on a hotel we'll be in for like 5 hours. :)
Megan <email>
WA USA Fri 01/21/2005
travel time
It take 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 hours depending on the type of train. You can easily find this out for yourself by going to Italian Rail (www.trenitalia.com/en). Input Roma Termini and Venezia. Enter the date and time in European format, then select "send".
Larry
CO USA Fri 01/21/2005
travel time
Any idea how long is the train ride from Venice to Rome?
bbb <email>
los angeles, ca USA Fri 01/21/2005
Rooms in Barcelona, Spain
Can you recommend a moderatly priced room in Barcelona, Spain. We have Rick Steve's book.
Theresa Beyer <email>
Loudon, TN USA Fri 01/21/2005
Tom, On two different occasions we have taken night trains from Paris to Italy. Both times (different hotels) the hotel was more than glad to keep our luggage after we checked out until an hour or two before our train. You could ask at least. We then took a cab from the hotel to the train station as the metro in Paris has tons of stairs. The cab was very reasonable.
USA Fri 01/21/2005
Foreign Equivalents of Goodwill Thrift Stores - Still Needed
Please re-read my post of 01/08/2005 to see which countries I need Goodwill store equivalents for. Haven't had any response and I really need your help - somebody out there knows this stuff !!If the email link won't work (many don't) please respond in this column. Thanks very much !!
Janae Londo <email>
Portland, Or USA Fri 01/21/2005
Normandy day trip
Besides Caen, another nice town to hit near the Normandy beaches (& good if you decide to stay overnight) is Bayeux. You can also see the Bayeux tapestry, which is well worth a visit. We stayed in Rouen, Normandy (also nice) for several months in 2003, and when we went to the beaches Bayeux was our home base. Definitely go to the US Cemetery though, whatever you do. It's SO moving.
Maria <email>
Athens, OH USA Fri 01/21/2005
Grand Hotel Baglioni?
I was wondering if anyone knew anything about Grand Hotel Baglioni in Florence. We are looking for a place to stay for two nights for two adults. Thank you!
karen <email>
delta, bc canada Fri 01/21/2005
Traveling in Piedmont, Italy
We'll be going to Piedmont in October for the grape harvest and Truffle Festival. I have noticed that RS doesn't cover travel in Piedmont. Does anyone have tips on hotels, B&Bs, or agriturismos in Alba or Barolo? What about tips on train/car connections? Thanks for your help.
Joe <email>
Vashon, WA USA Fri 01/21/2005
Lockers in Paris Train Stations
I was just in Paris in November and took an overnight train from Paris to Munich from Paris Est (a few blocks from Paris Nord) and there were lockers. I believe all the train stations have lockers. I know the airports in Paris no longer have lockers.
New York, NY USA Fri 01/21/2005
European Outlet Covers
No, Lowe's, Home Depot, dollar stores et al, only carry outlet covers for US outlets. (Believe me, I've checked them all, in person and online!) Probably I will have to find a place in Paris that has them. We got them at a suburban hypermarket before, but not sure where in the city would have them. Any ideas for stores? Thanks again for your help, guys!
Maria <email>
Athens, OH USA Fri 01/21/2005
shoe store in Paris
Does anyone know where the Mephisto shoe store is in Paris? I was there 2 years ago, but can't remember the location. Great prices on Mephistos!! Thanks, Linda
Linda Crossland <email>
Edmonds, WA USA Fri 01/21/2005
Lockers In Paris Train Stations?
Is it true there are no longer any lockers to store luggage in Paris train stations? In March I will be going to Paris and Rome with my 13 year old daughter. Due to the night train, I will be stuck walking around Paris with our luggage for about 6-7 hours unless I can find a locker, preferably at either Bercy or Gare de Lyon.
Also, has any stayed at the hotel Gerando? If so, how was it?
Tom Calkins <email>
Milwaukee, WI USA Fri 01/21/2005
Hotel Davanzati
We are going to Florence for two days, and wonder if anyone has stayed at the Davanzati Hotel.
karen <email>
Delta, BC USA Fri 01/21/2005
Travel in Italy
Debi - The previous advice about going open jaws is excellent. Another option would be to fly into Milan and take the train to Venice. In 2001, there was a ticket counter in the Malpensa airport where we bought train tickets, making it very convenient. Just a thought... We didn't stay at the Sofitel in Venice, but we did see it from the outside. It is in a nice, quiet section of the city. Considering that hotels in Venice are pricey, that would be a good place to use your reward points.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 01/21/2005
Debi: Itlay travel
Debi, if you don't have your airline tickets yet I would suggest getting open jaw tickets and start out in Venice and make your way to Rome.
pat
pa USA Fri 01/21/2005
Travel in Italy
My husband and I will be visiting Italy for two weeks in May (first time in Europe)and are trying to get in a well rounded visit without racing from town to town. So far, the plan is 2 1/2 days in Rome, 2 1/12 days in Venice and 3 days in Florence followed by a week in a villa in southern Tuscany with a few day trips around the area, then back to Rome for our flight home. We actually end up with a spare day and I was thinking about trying to see the Amalfi coast on a day trip while in Rome. Is that possible and what would be the best way to do it? Also, we're trying to use reward points where we can - has anyone ever stayed at either the Metropole or the Sofitel in Venice? Thanks for any advice you can give.
Debi <email>
GA USA Thu 01/20/2005
TRAVEL WITH PASSPORTS QUESTION
Ellen.....you should have plenty of time on your passport. Last I heard from Immigration Service is that they require 5 months. That would mean you would have to leave in July or before.
HOWELL W.
NYC, NY USA Thu 01/20/2005
SALZBURG TO MELK
Jan~~~~when I had that question about dropping a car, I called the rental agency to ask. I don’t know of any other way. Most major agencies have an 800 toll free number. Krem is such a small town that I doubt you can do it. But try. Otherwise wait until you get to Salzburg and call some local agencies.
B ANDERSON
DENVER, USA Thu 01/20/2005
Avigon-TGV or Avignon-Centre lockers?
Does anyone know if the Avignon TGV station or the Avignon Centre station have lockers for leaving baggage?
AJ <email>
Colorado Springs, CO USA Thu 01/20/2005
Station names- Bayern pass
Sorry, that Bayern pass is only 17 EUR for one person. The 24 EUR version is good for up to 5 people.
Larry
CO USA Thu 01/20/2005
Station names
The reason you are getting a lot of options for Garmisch is that the official name for the station is "Garmisch-Partenkirchen Bahnhof". Most of those other names are probably bus stops in the town of Garmisch.
You are probably getting something over 30 EUR per person for a ticket price. If you take one of the regional train connections through Munich, you can use a 24 EUR Bayern pass. It is less expensive for one person, and it is actually valid for up to 5 people traveling together for that same price.
Larry <email>
CO USA Thu 01/20/2005
Passports
Ellen, Generally you should have more than 6 months before your passport expires when traveling. I don't believe it is a standard rule, but most countries require it when needing a visa. The best to ensure this is go the countries embassy/consulate's website for visa requirements.
New york, NY USA Thu 01/20/2005
Salzburg to Melk with a car ?
I am trying to rent a car for 2 days to drive from Salzburg to Krem (and see everything inbetween)...does anyone know of a local car rental place in Salzburg that will allow a dropoff in Melk...
Jan <email>
Philadelphia, Pa. USA Thu 01/20/2005
Train station names
I am trying to go from Garmisch, Germany to Salzburg, Austria via train and do not know station names...I thought Salzburg only has 1 station...Garmisch has loads...does anyone know station names so I can pick the right one....thanks
Janet <email>
Philadelphia, Pa USA Thu 01/20/2005
Travel with Passports question
I've heard that since 9/11 if you travel out of the country your passport cannot be closer than 3 or is it 6 months from expiration? Our passports expire Jan 06, our next trip is May 05.I figure we are save, but want to make sure. Does anyone know off hand if there is such a restricition? I could do a websearch, but figured someout here will know right now!
Ellen <email>
USA Thu 01/20/2005
Places to go outside of London
K&S~~I agree with Jamie, the Cotswolds an Bath area would be great. You could take the train from Paddington Station to Moreton-in-Marsh, making that your home base or taking taxi to Bourton-on-the-Water a home base. You could rent a car in Bourton. There are so many beautiful small villages you could visit. Blemheim Palace is fantastic, you could spend several hours there. It's right on the outskirts of Woodstock. If you didn't want a home base you could just drive then find a B&B each night. Finding a B&B each night would be very easy. Castle Combe is a very enchanting village.
Robin <email>
Oh USA Thu 01/20/2005
German Flexipass
German Flexipass....We are thinking about purchasing a German Flexipass at a twin 2nd class rate of $135..p/p. If we would like to add on days at $18.00 p/p can these days be purchased as we travel in Germany, or does this have to be done w/ the initial purchase of the pass?Thanks
Moe <email>
Winfield, Il USA Thu 01/20/2005
London & further afield
K&S in Crossville--if you have a car Bath & Cotswolds would be great--Hidcote Manor Gardens & others, Blenheim Palace, etc. Do not rent car in London but get it at Heathrow. You could see Avebury and/or Stonehenge. If you will not be driving a train goes to Moreton-in-Marsh. It is my understanding you can find local drivers to get you around. It is so beautiful and peaceful there. Enjoy!
Jamie
FL USA Thu 01/20/2005
Normandy Day-Tripping
It is possible to take a morning train to Caen (about 2 hours) and see the WWII museum, then join an organized tour of the Normandy beaches. RS books have addresses for tours. It would be a long day, but do-able on a day-trip from Paris.
USA Thu 01/20/2005
A Good Guide in Salzburg
We have two questions: First we would like to find a local guide in Salzburg.Second. anyone have any info on how to get to Cesky Krumlou. bus or train schedule Thank you
Gary Morris <email>
Pleasanton, Ca USA Wed 01/19/2005
Lodging / Security
Sandy, we've traveled all over Europe in the last few years without any lodging reservations (except for the last night near the hotel once) One thing that minimizes the "wasted" searching time is to stay 3 or 4 nights in one place. Our trip map looks like a bowl of spaghetti, but we only unpack/pack a couple of times a week. It is easier to do with a car, though.We have come to realize that it is always possible to find a place to sleep most anywhere if money is no object. Our splurge lodging has been the more the result of bad luck or bad planning than anything else, but is still a splurge.
For those concerned about security in Naples: We lived in Southern Italy for 9 years and never even heard of an assault. We had the battery stolen from our car once and a purse taken from the car through a window the theives broke. Once in awhile a pick-pocket would try to get something from us, but went everywhere safely and felt safe. A previous poster alluded to the secret. Look like you know what you're doing, be aware of your surroundings, don't do stupid things (like leave valuables in sight in an unattended car) and don't look for something for nothing. It also helps to use teamwork to watch out for each other. Everybody lets down their guard once in awhile.
Ken
Gunnison, Co USA Wed 01/19/2005
London on Easter Sunday
Our first trip to London is approaching and most plans have been made; however, we will be there Easter Sunday. It looks like many sites will be closed - any suggestions?
S. Oloizia <email>
Brookfield, WI USA Wed 01/19/2005
re: Cinque Terre, Opinions
Eric;I have been lucky enough to have stayed in the Cinque Terre 3 times, twice in Vernazza, once in Riomaggiore. Vernazza is certainly the most picturesque of the towns, Monterosso the most commercial, but you can't really go wrong. My expectations for rooms are pretty low (I'm not really in there that much) just a comfy bed and quiet between midnight and 6 AM. Most rooms in the towns are not spectacular. However, I did find that I enjoyed Riomaggiore immensely. We found a room, actually a 2 bedroom apartment with kitchenette through Edi's Rooms (In Rick's Book) and when I go back, would do the same. Riomaggiore, Manarola, and Corniglia tend to be much quieter. Cinque Terre is also becoming one of those places that tends to be overcrowded during the day, but vacates at night, so I still rate it as a good stop.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 01/19/2005
re: Naples security
By all means, do not worry about security through Naples. It is no different than any large american (or for that matter any country) city. I, for one, am tired of hearing, reading, etc. about gypsy's, scams, ripoffs and the likes, when it is fear motivating the contributor rather than logic. I have travelled many places and found that a positive, confident attitude, walking with a purpose, is enough to discourage those that prey on the weak and unwary. Knowledge is certainly power, but do not let it breed fear. On my trip through Naples, for whatever reason, I actually collected a group of travellers (5 besides my wife and I) that were concerned about the connection between the train and the local train to Sorrento. I was polite in helping them, but it was unnecessary. It is worth mentioning, and I think valid, that crime in Europe tends to be non-violent. If you are duped, it is usually through your own greed, pity, or lack of knowledge(maybe naivete), rather than by force. In three trips and 11 weeks in Europe, I have never had a problem. My wife and I walked the streets of Naples, spent time in the station, and talked to people without any problems. My advice; be confident, be outgoing, be aware, but by all means visit Pompeii, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, and even wander the streets of Naples and find a good pizza Margherita. The experience is not to be missed.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 01/19/2005
Rome accomadation
Can anyone recommend a hotel in the Via Firenze section of Rome besides Rick Steves recommendations? I tried Hotel Oceania but their website is not up & running yet.
Stephanie Norris <email>
Trussville, Al USA Wed 01/19/2005
HOLD onto your PASSPORT
Passports:Everywhere we went, a photocopy was sufficient. We each take enough copies for each hotel, with 2 to spare. Having done quite a bit of traveling, we would never ever let the passport out of our sight.
K&S Frantzen <email>
Crossville, TN USA Wed 01/19/2005
suggestions for B&B and activities in London, late May
We are planning a trip to the UK in late May. Thinking of a week in London and then, where? We enjoy more out of the way places, activities and sites. Enjoy gardens, museums, meeting locals. We are looking for several B&B's and some good activities. Thanks!(and if you are traveling to Italy - Patty's Rooms is great in Rome and B&B Novecento in Florence also!
K&S Frantzen <email>
Crossville, TN USA Wed 01/19/2005
Military Resort in Garmisch, Germany
I stayed there in 1984 as a college student - yikes - has it been that long? It was OK for cheap lodging. No charm, no character, but back then I wasn't in it for the room. I still am not and I would stay there again if it was still cheap. Use it for a room and spend your time out and about and it won't matter.
Linda
GA USA Wed 01/19/2005
Paris: Where to Eat and Teen Shopping
Asking people where to eat in Paris is akin to asking them what to see in the Louvre, but I would appreciate top five hits for bistros and bars near the Hotel Normandy in the 1st arrondissement, near the Louvre or around St. Germain. I have 12-year-old bookworm; want to minimize pain and suffering of finding place to eat (she eats anything, we lived in Spain last year). Also, does anyone have suggestions for teen shopping in Paris? Budget is a consideration, but hey, it's Paris. Many thanks in advance.
Jean-Marie <email>
Washington, DC USA Wed 01/19/2005
lodging in Cinque Terre
We stayed at Francomaria in Vernazza and it was fine--comfortable bed & quiet. Found it in RS & checked it out on the web. Conveniently located. cash payment & breakfast was not included but it was not a problem since there are grocers 2 minutes away. we would stay there again. Happy travels!
Nancy
Ga USA Wed 01/19/2005
Sue, Nancy and other - thank you re: black dress!
Travelsmith is the website I was looking for, but I could not remember the name. Thank you!!
Chris
MA USA Wed 01/19/2005
Naples Security
We will be traveling with our 2 kids to Italy this summer. We were planning to spend a few days in Sorrento to see Pompeii, etc. Should I be concerned about train travel through Naples? It sounds like some people have had problems making connections for the local train. Is it even worth headiing south?
Barry L <email>
Salt Lake City, ut USA Wed 01/19/2005
AIRLINE FOR EASTERN EUROPEAN TRIP
Charles Luther.....try the web page www21.germanwings.com/. You will see on that page a map of cities served. Luckily for you five you mentioned are shown. If you do a further search on the net you might find a page listing flyers comments on that airline. Try the section of GrafWall entitled Flying within Europe. You can be sure those German lines won’t have ex-Aeroflot planes. I recently flew Estonian Airlines and they offered all new planes. You might also try Germaniaexpress.com, easyjet.com, and skyeurope.com.
McGill
Dallas, USA Wed 01/19/2005
EUROPEAN OUTLET COVERS
Maria~~~~~If I faced your problem I would go to Loews or Home Depot and ask for them. I can remember seeing them in one of those stores, but not in the electrical dept. They may display them in another dept. If that doesnt work try a dollar store or big lots. The other source may be in a store in the first town you visit in Europe.
Kaoverawlle
nyc, USA Wed 01/19/2005
1. Where to stay in Cinque Terre?Eric.....When we were in CT we rented an apartment ; so I can’t help with B&B. But you can do a google.com search for “ Cinque Terre B&Bs” and you will find many of them. We stayed in Vernazza because it is the smallest and quaintest of the five villages. Be sure you follow the advise of other Graf Wal readers and inspect the facilities before you agree to rent.DeWalt Ambrose CA
DeWalt Ambrose
USA Wed 01/19/2005
INTERNET IN VERNAZZA
Moriah~~~~~~The only place I found internet access in Vernazza was at the major bar on the north side of main street~~~~It is called the Blue Marlin~~~~~ (Go to:www.patootie.com/europe/vern~~~~ And read the fifth paragraph)~~~~~ That was several years ago; You can use the internet access in any hotel, or any other business~~~~you don’t have to be a tenant to do so~~~~ You can ask almost ANYONE on the street where the nearest access is and he will know~~~~ I am amazed at the people who live in Vernazza and how attuned they are to tourists~~~~ Several men on the street used their cell phone to ask for information for me!
A M HOLIDUEZ
TX USA Wed 01/19/2005
Re: Charles- E. European Airline
Charles, a few years back (on a trip to Germany, which included a few days in Prague), I flew CSA Czech Airlines and thought it was fine. I had purchased my ticket with Delta frequent flier miles, but actually flew Czech as they have an alliance with Delta. I did not think that the service was on par with, say, Lufthansa or Austrian Airlines (my personal favorite), but overall, had a good experience with this carrier.If this helps- flew from JFK in NY directly to Prague and, on return, from Munich to Prague (on a CSA Czech propeller plane) and then took CSA flight from Prague back to New York. You can probably do the same thing from Frankfurt or Rome. Prague is a beautiful city- you are sure to enjoy it. Happy travels.
Lawrence <email>
New York, NY USA Wed 01/19/2005
going to Egypt
I am a single parent with two children ages 12 and 8. We are planning a 2 month trip in the winter of this year starting off in Egypt then to Greece then to Southern Italy. I want to stay in Egypt two weeks. The 3 of us have traveled all through Europe so we feel comfortable traveling alone. If anyone has any advice on things to do and places to go that they found interesting we are ready to hear them. Thanks so much.
Moriah <email>
Port Orchard, WA USA Wed 01/19/2005
Internet in Vernazza
I would like to know if anyone knows of where I can access the internet in Vernazza. I found a hotel that offers internet service but would rather stay in another hotel. I take college classes on line and need to get on the internet while in Vernazza. Any help would be wonderful! thanks
Moriah <email>
Port Orchard, WA USA Wed 01/19/2005
To Pass or Not to Pass
You described your party as one adult, one student, one child. Children(up to 18, usually) get into all the museums free, and students with the ISID get big discounts as well. I do like the museum pass, because I'm more likely to dip into a museum for a short visit if I don't have to make a decision about paying, but there are lines regardless at places where you have to go through security. Musee Marmottan is not covered by the Paris museum pass.
Susan
WI USA Wed 01/19/2005
European outlet covers
Hi! Does anyone out there know of a place that sells outlet covers for European outlets? Our 4-year old (who has Down Syndrome) has suddenly discovered electrical outlets. We thought of using duct tape, but it wouldn't stop her very well since she's older and somewhat more adept.We thought we had kept some covers from our last stay in France, but they seem to have vaporized, and I can't find them in the Magellan's catalog, etc. We're going again to France this spring for 2 months, and we'll be okay once we get to our final destination and can shop, but till then...Thanks for the help!
Maria <email>
Athens, OH USA Wed 01/19/2005
Lodgis lodgings in Paris
We booked through Lodgis in June and had a lovely apartment and a great bargain. Your credit card is only charged the agency fees-where can you stay without providing credit card info?-you pay the rent and security deposit to the owner when you get there. You can fax or email info, and they were very willing to have me scan and email a document that didn't come through clearly in the fax. If you have questions, they will respond quickly in English-I can recommend Alison Young-and can get you in contact with the apartment owner by email as well.
Susan
USA Wed 01/19/2005
Where to stay in Cinque Terre?
My wife and I are traveling to Italy and Cinque Terre is on our agenda. Where should we stay?....which town do you recommend and if possible any good B&B's you've experienced.Thank you
Eric <email>
Costa Mesa, CA USA Wed 01/19/2005
packing light-Kelly
Kelly-I think there's a section on the Grafitt Wall called Tricks for packing light. Check it out, it's full of ideas
<email>
WV USA Wed 01/19/2005
Czech rail passes
The Czech passes are easy to find. Click railpasses, choose your pass, eastern europe pass and wholla, Czech passes. It isn't necessary to download the railpass guide to find it
bpwrightwv
WV USA Wed 01/19/2005
Mike~~DON'T give up either London or Paris. When you arrive in London, check into your hotel and then get going on your sight seeing. Enjoy the day, there is so much you can see that is "free", you can really enjoy yourself. Then if you go to bed around 10 or 11 your first night, you will be fine the next day. You are young and won't have trouble with jetlag. Then when you get to Paris you can see the things that are high on your list of things you want to see. Go and have a great time.
Oh USA Wed 01/19/2005
Normandy
Kathy-my suggestion would be to rent a car and drive to the Normandy area, stay one or two nights and drive back. We did this a few years ago - took the morning to drive to the Normandy area, had lunch along the way and then went to the D-Day museum in Caen. We were there for several hours and did not want to leave - it was a wonderful museum. Next day we did a tour of the beachs including Point D-hoc (please excuse all spelling), Omaha, US & German cemetaries. Well worth taking your time, then head back to Paris the next day. Driving is not bad at all especially in the Normandy area.
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 01/19/2005
Day trip to Normandy
My husband and I will be in Paris the first week in April. We have been there before and have seen many of the sights. What we would really like to do is take a whole day and go to the Normandy beaches. Is there a way we can do this? I would appreciate any help you can give us. Thanks.
Kathy Anglim <email>
Ambler, PA USA Wed 01/19/2005
London to Rome Trip
I think you will want at least two nights in Paris unless the weather is horrible. If possible, reserve a room in advance. On my first trip to Europe I stayed in cities three nights each and that was just right. It takes one day to travel, settle into hotel, and get oriented in the new city and two days to enjoy the place. If one of those days seems "extra" take a day trip to someplace an hour or two away by train (Versailles, Chartres, Rouen, Caen, etc).
USA Wed 01/19/2005
Passports in Italy
In Italy, hotels have to submit paperwork with your passport info to the local police (at least where I have stayed). Once the paperwork is filled out with your passport number, etc., you can ask to get your passport back. When I can, I wait while they write down the info and take back my passport on the spot. If they insist on keeping your passport, it is probably to insure that you won't skip out without paying.
Swan
USA Wed 01/19/2005
Jean-Marie/Paris Museum Pass
The passes are a reasonable bargain if you can visit several museums per day. Otherwise, it is an expensive way to go. I have mostly gone without passes and waited in lines maybe 15-20 minutes a few times. I used a pass for a day once and visited a bunch of places. Like you, I think one museum a day is the right number. To avoid lines and save money visit museums at opening time. Another advantage of going early is that the place isn't crowded yet.
Swan
USA Wed 01/19/2005
HELP: Taveling from London to Rome
Mike - I have to agree with Larry's thoughts, that your itinerary is a little too ambitious. Two nights in London and one night in Paris, combined with jet lag and transferring between cities, is just too much. Even though both are must-see cities, you should pass on one of them. Larry's right that London is expensive, especially with today's exchange rate. Plus, by eliminating London, there's one less currency to have to trade for another. If you leave out London, you'll have only euros and Swiss francs to deal with. OR, if you must see London, pass on Paris.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 01/18/2005
Switzerland to Prague
When I read Carol's posting, I remembered that there was a Czech pass, and I went looking for it first on Rick's website. I could not find any mention of it on any PAGE of his website. Apparently he does not sell the pass. Can we agree on that? Then I went to the RailEurope site and found it quickly. In no way do I want to disparage Rick's site, but having it buried in a 30 page download is not the same as having the info readily available, as it is on RailEurope.com.The information about the excursion pass is a valuable suggestion.
Larry
CO USA Tue 01/18/2005
lodgis comments?
Anyone have experience (good or bad) renting apartments through Lodgis? I have found an attractive apartment for two weeks and now have cold feet as I consider (1) providing credit card information to an unknown European provider, and (2) likelihood of arriving in Paris with no rental despite confirmation. Comments?
Mike T <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 01/18/2005
Hotel Maxim, Florence, single traveler
Has anyone stayed at the Hotel Maxim in Florence? I'll be traveling by myself and have found single rooms to sometimes be "closets," even in otherwise pleasant hotels. I'm wondering about--experience of other single travelers at Maxim--anyone's thoughts about late-night safety of immediate area --any other commentsThanks!
Shari
San Jose, CA USA Tue 01/18/2005
Packing light
My partner and I are going to Great Britain this fall. We are still finalizing where we want to go (London for 4-5 for sure...and to see a friend in Scotland) but we know we want to only travel with carry-ons. For those of you who have done this before - what are some of the items that you wished you had brought that you had not? What are some of the things that you DID bring and wish you would have left home? I'll try to learn from you! Thanks!
Kelly
Seattle, Wa USA Tue 01/18/2005
HOTEL NEAR MILAN AIRPORT
J GRIFFITH......search google.com for “Malpensa Hotel”. I do that frequently to find a hotel near the airport. The hotel web page will usually tell you if they offer airport pickup. If not, email the hotel and ask.
BUCHANAN
NYC, USA Tue 01/18/2005
Don't give up London
Mike~~PLEASE don't take Larry's advise about not going to London. Your schedule is very do able. You can do and see a lot in 2 days in London. I would really hate to see you give up London. London is a fantastic city and should be consider a "MUST". Stick to your schedule and have a great time.
Oh USA Tue 01/18/2005
London to Paris
Mike~~I have to disagree with Larry regarding his post. You can arrive in Paris in the morning. Here is a few times: leave London 6:34am arrive Paris 10:23am, London 7:09am~Paris 10:59am, London 8:12am~Paris 11:47am. This would give you time to see several of Paris's sights.
Oh USA Tue 01/18/2005
Robert Pawelek
I am trying to re-establish contact with Robert Pawelek who used to be at Oregon State U. in the Agriculture Extension Service. He and I corresponded concerning Easter Europe. The email address I have does not work. Any help will be appreciated.
Charles M. Luther <email>
USA Tue 01/18/2005
Airline for Eastern European Trip
We are planning a trip to Prague and Krakow that will either start or end in Rome. What is a good airline for flying from/to Germany (Frankfurt or Munich probably) or Rome/Milano. We can go either direction. I am asking because I do NOT want to fly any airline run by or similar to the Russian Aeroflot.
Charles M. Luther <email>
Katy, TX USA Tue 01/18/2005
HOTEL NEAR MILAN AIRPORT
J GRIFFITH......search google.com for “Malpensa Hotel”. I do that frequently to find a hotel near the airport. The hotel web page will usually tell you if they offer airport pickup. If not, email the hotel and ask.
A. M. Buchanan
NYC, USA Tue 01/18/2005
OPEN ITINERARY
Sandy~~~~~~Your plan is the same as I have used to visit over 48 countries, some more than once. My wife and I never reserve a room in advance unless we are to arrive late at night. In which case I always email and ask for confirmation of the room and the rate. Only once in all our travels have we found a room past 6 pm. Start looking about 3 pm so you can move in before dark. Always inspect your room before agreeing to rent and negotiate the cost if you are good at that.
LEAVENWORTHE
TULSA, USA Tue 01/18/2005
Military resort in Garmish, Germany?
My husband is in the military and we are planning a trip to Germany this summer. We would like to save some money and we know that the military has a resort in Garmish. Has anyone stayed there? We want some info from other travelers before making reservations. Thanks!
Brooke <email>
Killeen, TX USA Tue 01/18/2005
re: Milan to Cinque Terra
Have taken the journey a number of times. There are two ways to go about it, depending on your timing, one may be quicker than the other. Typical way is to take the train from Milan to Genoa, change trains to go to the Cinque Terra. The train from Genoa stops at every stop along the way, and is slow. Maybe up to 4 hours total from Milan. Another option is to find a faster train from Genoa to La Spezia, you will blast right through the Cinque Terra, but it is a much shorter trip back to the Cinque Terra from La Spezia. I heard at one time that they are working on a new line from Genoa, South, that will be inland and much faster to La Spezia, but do not think it is done yet. For detailed schedules, go to www.trenitalia.com
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 01/18/2005
Switzerland to Prague
Larry from Colorado says that Rick has no information on the Czech Flexipass. Actually, that's not true. Download Rick's 2005 Railpass Guide, go to p. 20, and you'll find that information. On the same page there is also information about the Prague Excursion Pass.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 01/18/2005
Milan to Cinque Terre
First time to Europe....Milan to Cinque Terre? From Milan, where will my train be heading? Will I need to go into Genoa and then take a smaller train into Cinque Terre? Also, what are your opinions on the 5 towns and do you have any B&B recommendations....Thanks in advance for the advice!
Eric V <email>
Costa Mesa, CA USA Tue 01/18/2005
Adriatic Coast of Croatia
My husband and I want to go to a resort on the adriatic coast of Croatia at the end of June to celebrate our 25th anniversary. I've found several nice places but they are quite big and in one case all the beautiful people go there. I'm looking for something romantic and maybe a little quieter. Price is not really an issue if its really nice and special.Thanks.
Denise Gordon-Kamm <email>
Urbandale, IA USA Tue 01/18/2005
Re: Connecting Flight in Paris & Air France
I just recently returned from the south of france and missed two connecting flights. I had an hour and five minutes between flights, but my departure from Biarritz was delayed by 40 minutes due to bad weather in Paris. They held the flight back as long as they could for several of us,(different parties) but could hold it no longer as this flight out carried people who also would need to make a connecting flight at the next stop. And because the substitute flight I was booked on, departed almost one and a half hour late, due to the now famous random "thorough inspections", I missed my connecting flight again. As for Air France, and their Staff, I have nothing but wonderful things to say about them. Although the entire trip back home just never went according to plan,including my luggage reaching me two days later, the exceptional way they attempted to make it up to me, leaves me with no ill feelings towards them. "Pas du tout".
Leonor <email>
Pensacola, FL USA Tue 01/18/2005
London to Rome
Mike... I think you are trying to pack way too much into the first few days of your trip, particularly considering you will be feeling jetlag.By including London you are adding an expensive trip in the dark through the Chunnel, and you won’t get to see much of Paris. Using the Chunnel, you would be hard pressed to get to the Paris train station much before 1 or 2 pm. How much sightseeing can you do that day? To get to Zurich by dinner time (6:00pm), you have to leave Paris by 10:45am. No sightseeing that morning either.“Assume you will return”. Save London for another trip. Fly directly to Paris. Spend quality time there, then go on to Zürich.
Larry <email>
CO USA Tue 01/18/2005
Champagne/Reims Day Tour Deals
Hi, I'm going solo (first time) to Europe in March. And while in Paris, I am interested in going to Champagne/Reims and partaking in a full day or half day wine tour/tasting. Does anyone know of a good company/website that offers reasonable day tours? I've found a few sites (by doing a google search), but the seem to be a couple hundred dollars (and above). And thats just way too much money. I know if I went solo, the train there is approximately $40, and then I'd have to pay about $10 entrance fees to each vineyard. Which is obviously cheaper, but my concern w/ doing this was transportation between each vineyard. (Does anyone know if they walking distance from each other?) Plus I thought it might be more fun to do this with a group... Thanks for any help!
Holly <email>
Hollywood, CA USA Tue 01/18/2005
Re: Connecting Flight/CDG/Air France
I have been through the same thing, on the way to Greece, 1 hour connection in Paris on Air France. I was sceptical of making it, until we landed and found an escort waiting for my wife and I (and some others) to take us to our next flight. Now our flight from the US was late, but they made every effort to get us to our plane, moving us through Customs, getting us right to the gate. I am sure this is not typical, but I was impressed. It seems that they do look for any connecting passengers and hold flights or escort them to assure connections are made. But still, an hour is tight.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 01/18/2005
Eurostar from London to Paris
Mike~~your travel plans sound great. If I was you I would call London and purchase your Eurostar ticket in February. The phone number is 011-44-8705-186186. You can purchase a ticket over the internet but I have found that when I call over to London I get a much better price. They will hold the ticket at the station for you, so you would have to get there at least a couple of hours early to give you enough time to pick up your ticket. The line has never been very long when I've been there, but you never know. It is a three hour ride from London to Paris. Over there they do not call it the "Chunnel".
Robin <email>
Oh USA Tue 01/18/2005
Switzerland to Prague
Carol... A lot of that railpass info on the Czech Rep is available on RailEurope.com (Rick doesn't include it on his website). Check them out.
Larry
CO USA Tue 01/18/2005
HELP: Taveling from London to Rome
Recently some of my family moved to Zurich from USA and I decided to visit them for Easter. Instead of just flying in and out of Zurich I decided to make an adventure out of it and fly into London on 3/22 stay there for 2 nights then take the Chunnel to Paris, stay there for a night, take Eurail to Zurich, stay there 4 or 5 nights, then work my way to Rome where I will fly out the morning of 4/7. This is my first time traveling to Europe and I will be traveling alone too, except for when I meet my family. I’m a little nervous about it, but its something I really want to do. I wanted to see if anyone had any travel suggestions or any comments on my travel path or timeline. I’ll have about 15 full days to go from London to Rome and I want to try and see as much as possible. My tickets are only on a hold right now, so I have till Thursday to change them if I need to. So any suggestions of help would be appreciated.
Mike <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Tue 01/18/2005
Switzerland to Prague
Carol... Switzerland and the Czech Republic have no common border. Traveling between these countries means going through Germany or Austria, at least.I assume that you asked your question because you were planning on using a Eurail Select pass, but you failed to indicate how many other countries you planned to “select”. Germany or Austria have to be one of the selected countries. If you are planning four countries, including Switzerland and the Czech Republic, just add Germany (or Austria) as the fifth country - it adds about $45 to the cost of the pass. If you already have five countries, take off the Czech Republic, add Germany or Austria, and buy a separate Czech pass. At $52 for 3 days, $7 for each additional day, it is far cheaper than adding days to a Eurail pass. Lastly, if you already have 5 countries you want to visit, buy a 5-day Czech/Austria pass for $162.
Larry <email>
CO USA Tue 01/18/2005
passports
hI david, we have been to Italy 3 times. Always the hotels have asked for our pass- ports and have taken the info from them If they are busy, they may give them back later, but they dont give them to the authorities. when we stayed in private accomodations they are supposed to ask for them, but they dont always. Have a great trip.
kati <email>
irvine, ca USA Tue 01/18/2005
We are flying to Charle de Gaulle to catch a connecting flight. There's only about 1hr in between. Is that enough time? HOw is Air France's service? I heard horror stories about luggages being lost but we have carry-on, so that will not be a problem.
USA Tue 01/18/2005
Hotel Maas, Amsterdam
I phoned Hotel Maas in Amsterdam to reserve a triple room in June and was told I would be emailed a confirmation code after they had received my faxed cc number. That was back in October. I haven't received it yet! I tried emailing them to give them the new cc (because the old one has been blocked) and the email bounced back. Tried phoning at 18:00 & 19:00, no answer. Any thoughts or suggestions?
Darcy <email>
Lewiston, ID USA Tue 01/18/2005
ruddybaggers---In '02 I had the same question and my first assumption was that a ferry from the south coast to Normandy would be appropriate in that it would---sorta---aproximate the experience of the guys on the troopships. Fortunately friends in London intervened in my romanticism, pointing out that weather in the Channel can be brutal in June (remember '44?) and in any case, the process is complicated (bus or train from London, possible overnight stay in England, boarding, crossing etc.) OR the Chunnel from London to Paris, a rental car in Paris or the suburbs and off you go. My companion and I chose the latter although we went by train to Bayeau and used that charming place as our base for about a week. Best wishes
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 01/18/2005
BMI airlines
Ann -- I echo the previous poster -- BMI was great (besides cheap!) when we flew London to Paris. I wouldn't hesitate to fly them.
Kristin
Bellevue, WA USA Tue 01/18/2005
BMI
Be sure to check their luggage restrictions and plan accordingly before booking. This site is full of travelers who had 'excessive' baggage and were charged baggage surcharges by European budget airlines.
bpwrightwv
WV USA Tue 01/18/2005
BMI airlines
Ann - BMI is British Midlands. We flew them (at a great price also) last fall from London to Paris with no problems. In fact, when we were taking the Tube to Heathrow, a local person asked what airline we were flying. When we answered "BMI", they said that it was a good airline. Also, they are part of the same network as United, so if you have a United frequent flier number, you can give BMI your United FF account, for miles.
Rick Manyik
Chicago, IL USA Tue 01/18/2005
open itinerary
i agree with the other post that it is a very good idea to book first night & last night stay. In our travels we have found some really delightful places to stay rec by other travelers & innkeepers with no reservation. However, if your trip is scheduled very tight with seeing lots of sights and making the most of each day, you are not going to want to spend precious time looking for accomodations. From our experience driving in Europe always takes way more time--so easy to make a wrong turn or get totally confused negotiating a roundabout, etc.
Jamie
FL USA Tue 01/18/2005
France-to-Italy Train travel
My husband I will be traveling in both France and northern Italy in late May. We need to get to Levanto, Italy from the French Riviera (presumably by train) and are unsure what the best route would be. We are fairly flexible as we will be dropping off a rental car. Is it best to drop off in Marseille or drive all the way to Nice? Is there a direct high-speed train to Genoa or maybe even Levanto? Any help would be greatly appreciated.Happy travels.
Sue Barrett <email>
St Paul, MN USA Tue 01/18/2005
Sicily B&B's
I am traveling to Sicily in February and need help with B&B's anywhere but Palermo
Robin Walton <email>
San Antonio, TX USA Tue 01/18/2005
Re: Open Itinerary
You will get lots of differing opinions. My own is that you will have no problems. I have travelled without room reservations and always had someplace to sleep. You are travelling in the shoulder season, so rooms will not be booked full. That said, I do have some advice. If you are planning someplace crowded or special, you may want to book ahead...Paris, or in your case maybe Venice, may be a good idea to book ahead to get the room you want. Often, we call ahead a day or two and get a room, it works well. I usually book a room for my first (and sometimes last)night(s) ahead, just to relieve the stress of landing and finding someplace. Aside from that, unless you are very particular about your lodging, you should have no problems.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 01/18/2005
BMI airlines
Has anyone had any experience flying with the airline "BMI"? I'm looking to fly from Chicago to Franfurt and back again, and this is a really cheap flight. How's the service?
Ann
IN USA Tue 01/18/2005
To Chris, about black dress
Chris: I like the Traveler's collection at Chico's. They have lightweight, roll-up-able, yet pretty elegant black dresses of varying lengths. You might also try Travelsmith- they have a black travel dress. I've never tried it, so wouldn't know how well it packs, wears, and dries.
USA Mon 01/17/2005
Open Itinerary?
My wife and I are planning a three week trip in late April, early May to Europe, starting out in Germany and heading to Italy. We were thinking of leaving our itinerary open and not making B&B reserverations. Is this wise or are we asking for trouble?
Sandy <email>
San Jose, CA USA Mon 01/17/2005
Switzerland to Prague HELP!!
HEY! I'm planning on backpacking across Europe and need tips on how to travel from Switzerland to Prague (Czech Republic).. I plan on getting a Eurorail pass but it doesn't seem that those to countries are adjoined by direct rail... any suggestions? Thanks Carol
Carol <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Mon 01/17/2005
Abruzzi Region (Italy) hotels, etc.
We are planning to stay 2 nights in the Abruzzi region in Italy - either in L'Aquila or Avezzano. Any accomodation recommendations would be appreciated. Would like to stay in the $120 (US) per night range
Julie Sherwood <email>
Kent, WA USA Mon 01/17/2005
Hotel near Milan Airport
Any suggestions on a hotel near Malpensa airport outside Milan. Just need a one night stay before leaving in the am, but looking for something comfortable and, perhaps, which will provide transport to the airport.
J. Griffith <email>
St. Louis, MO USA Mon 01/17/2005
TRAVEL TO AMSTERDAM OVER EASTER WEEKEND
Angie.....do a google.com search for “Amsterdam Sights”. There should be a schedule of hours for the major attractions. I have searched for special museums and cathedrals in the past and found about half of them list entry fees and hours. And dates closed.
DOTTIE W
ATLANTA, GA USA Mon 01/17/2005
WHEN TO BUY AIRLINE TICKETS
Jeff~~~when you read the Graffiti Wall section on air travel to Europe you will see lots of reports about how travelers use various methods of finding discount fares. Some recommend dealing with the airlines ONLY and calling every day, hoping to hit on the day and time that seats are released for discount fares on your chosen flight. Some recommend calling on Wednesdays after midnight. Thats when most airline inventory controllers cut fares on flights with too many unfilled sears. In 20 years of flying , I am convinced it is all luck. One thing I have learned is that you cant call too often or too early.
JOHNNY Z
NYC, USA Mon 01/17/2005
PASSPORT PROCEDURES
David~~~~Don’t be concerned about having your passport checked. In my travel to over 50 countries, I have stayed mostly in homes and apartments because I don’t like hotels. Some hotels will ask for passports and keep them until you leave; there is no requirement in homes.We used to present our passport upon entering every country; but that is no long true with the European Union countries. When authorities want to see your passport they will ask for it—otherwise you keep it in your money belt or neckpouch. Of the countries you mention, you will pass through border points without stop.
S. ROMANDENZ
SACRAMENTO, USA Mon 01/17/2005
Museum Pass
Do we need museum pass for travel March 12-16? We were in Paris in May last year and encountered no lines at Louvre, etc. I am wondering if this was dumb luck or if pass is over-rated, particularly if we plan to do just one museum per day. Thanks in advance! (We are two adults (one professor, one student) and one child under 12.)
Jean-Marie Simon <email>
Washington, DC USA Mon 01/17/2005
Passports
David~~~your trip sounds wonderful. Can't answer all of your questions but we spent two weeks in Italy last spring and there was not a single hotel or B&B that did not require taking our passports and keeping then until we were ready to check out. It seemed to be standard procedure. We have not had them taken up in France, Netherlands or Great Britain--just showed them at customs.
Nancy
Ga USA Mon 01/17/2005
Hotel du Chateau in Beynac
Has anyone stayed in Hotel du Chateau in Beynac? I am confused as to whether it is charming or very basic. I don't need fancy but do need charm and a pretty good bathroom! Thanks.
Leslie Davidson <email>
Houston, TX USA Mon 01/17/2005
Keskadale Farm
similar question to Susan's. We are planning a trip to the Keswick area. Any info about Keskadale farm or other B&B's in area?
Anna <email>
San Antonio, TX USA Mon 01/17/2005
Passport Procedures
My wife and I are about to embark on a three and a half month trip in Europe. We are starting out in France(Paris, Brittany-Normandy, The Lot)for over a month, then we travel to Florence, Praiano on the Amalfi coast, Venice, Germany-Bavaria, Belgium, Amsterdam, and our final two weeks spent in Agay on the French Riviera, before returning to Paris to fly home. I have read that in many countries when you check into your hotel you will be asked for your passport and they will give them to the local athorities.My question is that my wife and I have reserved private self catering accomidations in most of the areas we will be visiting. Obviously we will get our passport stamped in Paris upon arrival, and then our first night in Italy will be in a hotel in Florence, but other than that, most of our other accomidations will be in private homes and apartments. What do we do about making sure we are going through the appropriate steps in having our passport checked? What is the expected procedure? I've tried looking online to see what's expected from us as we enter new countries and cities, but I haven't been able to find anything concrete. Please leave a message or email us if you can help us figure this out.Thanks, David
David Horne <email>
West Linn, OR USA Mon 01/17/2005
Transit to Heathrow
Having experienced the gridlock around London during busy times, I recommend that you plan to use the Subway ("tube") between Waterloo and Heathrow. Three hours won't feel like a lot of time.
USA Mon 01/17/2005
Naples--Circumvesuviana Train Sta.
The passageway between train station and circumvesuviana station has been full of people rushing to catch their train when I've been there (Oct. 'o4), very much like a subway connecting passageway. Once you buy your ticket just follow the crowd. The only slightly tricky part is not to go through the turnstiles that you see (part of the metro system I think).
USA Mon 01/17/2005
Gatwick to Heathrow transfer
Be careful about using the jetlink bus between Gatwick and Heathrow. You have 3 hrs between flights, technically. Chances are, your inbound flight to Gatwick will be late. If you're flying from outside the UK to Gatwick, you will have to clear customs, which can take a long time. And as mentioned, traffic will greatly affect the travel time on that bus. Go with Jetlink in mind, but have a plan b in force. My inbound flight was late, took over an hour to get through customs, and I was stuck in rush hour traffic for 2 hours on that bus. I missed my outbound flight, and was charged a change fee by American b/c of it. I also missed my final flight in NY and had to spend the night in a hotel room. All in all, that fiasco cost me around $300.Plan B? The tube since it runs underground and is not affected by traffic.
bpwrightwv
fairmont, wv USA Mon 01/17/2005
accomodations In Cumbria
We plan to be in the Lake District in late May for three nights. Does anyone have recommendations on a nice B&B that is reasonably priced? Quiet, charming, and decent parking would be a plus. Activities for us will be hiking and visiting the Beatrix Potter farms. We are deciding between Keswick and Ambleside but are open to suggestions since we have never been in this area of England.
Susan <email>
Atl, USA Mon 01/17/2005
black travel dress
Chris~~~try Travelsmith--nice quality clothes,etc.
Nancy
Ga USA Mon 01/17/2005
Getting to Canterbury
Louise~~you can take the Eurostar from Calais to Ashford, Kent. Then you take the train from Ashford to Canterbury or the bus.
Robin <email>
Oh USA Mon 01/17/2005
Jeu de Paume
This will definitely show my age, but when I was in Paris in 1980 for the year at school, a lot of the impressionist collection that is now at the Orsay was at the Jeu de Paume. What is that place being used for these days? Just curious.
Deborah
Aspen, CO USA Mon 01/17/2005
Austrian train travel
Amy... While I tend to agree with Heathcliffe that point-to-point tickets will probably cost less than an Austrian Rail pass, it is not a slam dunk. Austria is small, distances are short, and rail fares are relatively low. However, an Austrian Rail pass, at $112 for three days, is about the cheapest of the passes sold. At todays exchange rate, $112 will get you about €84 from an ATM to pay for those P-P tickets. For comparison, a ticket from Salzburg to Vienna costs about €40.
Figure out where you plan to go each day, then go to the website for Austrian Rail (www.oebb.at) and look up the fares for each day. If your three heaviest days of travel total more than €84, you are better off with the pass. Also keep in mind that additional pass days cost about €12 ($16) each. For 5 days of train travel, the breakeven point is €108 or less than €22 per day.
I see nothing to indicate that an Austrian Rail pass would include innercity transportation, but that probably costs less than a day of the railpass. For instance, a Vienna card for €16,90 includes 72 hours of transit usage plus discounts to museums, restaurants, etc.
Larry <email>
CO USA Mon 01/17/2005
When to buy airline tickets?
I will be traveling to Europe at the end of may, when should I look for the best deals on airline tickets? (When should I buy my airline tickets?)
Jeff
USA Mon 01/17/2005
Black dress for travel
Chris -- there's a good site for travel gear that features many variations of a simple black dress (also in color). Can be dressed up with a scarf or jewelry. I don't have the dress, so I can't vounch for it, but it's worth a look: www.travelsmith.com
Sue
Philadelphia, PA USA Mon 01/17/2005
Morrocco from Spain
Heading to Spain and Morrocco in late Feb. We plan to spedn approx 3 days in Morrocco. Any suggestions on: easy modes of travel between the countries, highlights of Morrocco not to be missed, accomodation recommedations for Morrocco would be greatly appreciatted!Cheers!
Friendly Canafians <email>
Victoria, BC USA Mon 01/17/2005
Need black dress that doesn't wrinkle!
Planning a trip to Europe this summer that will include two funeral/ remembrance services. I need to bring a black dress that is lightweight and doesn't wrinkle. I know there are websites specializing in travel clothing, but I've just looked through here and the "Packing Light" board, and can't find a mention of them. Does someone know of any? Or, if you can recommend any brands from your own experience, that's good too! Thank you.
Chris
MA USA Mon 01/17/2005
Rome and Naples
I have several questions about travel in Rome and Naples:
1. Is there any recent information as to when the Ara Pacis (Altar of Peace) Museum will be open?
2. I am interested in visiting sites along the Via Appia. Is there a more reliable alternative to the Archeobus?
3. I hope to visit Herculaneum and Pompeii taking the Circumvesuviana. I have read Rick's advisory about the passageway between the Naples and Circumvesuviana train stations. I am a single woman age 62 and am concerned about safety. Does anyone have any recent experience with this passageway?
Carroll <email>
Salt Lake City, UT USA Mon 01/17/2005
Travel to Amsterdam over Easter weekend
My husband and I would like to travel to Amsterdam over the long Easter weekend, but are concerned that most of the sites will be closed on Easter Sunday and Monday. Does anyone here know?
Angie <email>
Salisbury, UK Mon 01/17/2005
IRELAND - BALLYVAUGHN
Hi all; am staying in Ballyvaughn for 2 nights, car free, April. Any NONSMOKING lodging recommendations within walking distance of village or village itself? Other comments?Thanks,PEM
PEM
East Coast, USA Mon 01/17/2005
Re: Florence to Ravenna
By train, it is 2 1/2 to 3 hours each way. You can go to www.trenitalia.com for specific information on departures and times. You do go a little out of your way to go through Bologna, but all routes are main lines, so I am not sure if a bus would be faster or not. As for making it a day trip, a long day would give you 6 or 7 hours in Ravenna, is that enough time to do what you want?
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 01/17/2005
FLORENCE TO RAVENNA
SHARIE: The journey by train takes about two and three-quarter hours. One train leaves Florence at 07:02 and arrives at Ravenna at 09:50, the fare being €6.82c. See...http://www.trenitalia.com/home/en/index.html for other trains.
USA Mon 01/17/2005
Paris-Brussels bus - Rick from Ohio
Eurolines runs buses to Brussels and offers discounts for youth and advance purchase - the price came up as 31 Euros round trip when I checked this site:
www.eurolines.fr/C1256BDB002CA61C?Opendatabase
Russ <email>
Galt, CA USA Mon 01/17/2005
Ford Focus or Opel Astra
Both of these cars have a trunk capacity of approximately 350 liters. You can check www.opel.com and www.ford.co.uk for pictures.
Chrismo
Denmark Mon 01/17/2005
Travel from France to England
Hello fellow Rick Steves Fans!!! I am leaving for a semester abroad in Angers, France. I have one particular question, what is the cheapest way to get from Angers,France to Canterbury, England. Do any of you have any experience with the ferries from Calais to Dover or the Eurostar? Any information will very much appreciated :) Merci Beaucoup!
Louise <email>
St. Peters, MO USA Sun 01/16/2005
GERMAN AUSTRIAN TRANS.
Amy.....Don’t buy a rail pass. Just walk up to the ticket window and buy a point-to-point to ticket each time you travel. They are usually much cheaper than using a pass.Sorry you can't consider auto rental because I have done that many times and prefer the convenience over meeting train schedules.
HEATHCLIFFE
TULSA, USA Sun 01/16/2005
RIOMAGGIORE ROOM
Brian~~~I suggest you look at any room you rent in CT. I looked at 5 before I rented one because they are not up to standards of the rest of the world. Some are very primitive.
WHAZETTER
NYC, USA Sun 01/16/2005
DRIVING IN EUROPE.
Jinny ~~I have driven in E Europe~~from Krakow to Budapest, through Slovakia and Czek.~~Taking your car in Prague and dropping it in Krakow will be expensive because most companies don’t want to drive their cars back home.~~ They make the drop charges prohibitive. ~~If you do it, be sure you buy a good highway map because road signs are hard to read and sometimes rare.~~ We got lost twice because we missed a turn when we couldn’t find a sign.~~ And be aware that speed limits are not posted I small villages. ~~ I was fined for speeding.~~ Limit is usually 30 Km which is 18 MPH.
SLAKEZ
NEW ORLEANS, USA Sun 01/16/2005
Florence to Ravenna
I would like to do a day trip from Florence to Ravenna but can't find transportation information. Has anyone taken a train or bus from Florence? Is it feasible to do as a day trip? Thanks for any advice!
Sharie
San Jose, CA USA Sun 01/16/2005
car size, Italy
Any opinions on car size for a family of four? We were thinking the Opal Astra hatchback, or Ford Focus hatchback size. That is considered Compact over there - small by our standards. We think we can squeeze in - we are packing light. What's the thought on these car sizes. We have four small 21 inch suitcases and some small odds & ends. We can fit these four suitcases in the Ford Focus. Anyone seen the Astra hatchback? This is for driving in Italy for a bit.
Kathy <email>
New Brighton, MN USA Sun 01/16/2005
Paris to Brussels Bus?
Hello out there! I will be in Paris in about 10 days and am trying to find a bus line to take me round trip from Paris to Brussels. Not having any luck on the internet and the websites I have found are somewhat cryptic on how to book. I know the Thalys train goes between cities but am looking for a less expensive mode of travel. Any suggestions?
Rick <email>
Worthington, OH USA Sun 01/16/2005
Hotel in Milan
Kathy, Several years ago I stayed at a nice hotel in Milan near the train station. Hotel Virgilio is about 2 to 3 blocks from the station and is nice but moderately priced. The rooms are small but air conditioned and there is a tiny elevator. 6691337 669138 6691532 6696926 Fax 66982587 The address is Via P.L. da Palestrina 30 20124 Milano I stayed there on three different occasions and always just walked from the train station. The airport is about a 45 minute ride from town. Take the blue airport bus unless there is now a train (don't know).
Kay
USA Sun 01/16/2005
Hotels in Milan
Does anyone have a suggestion for a good, reasonably priced hotel in Milan, that is close to the Duomo and other central sites? Also, how long does it take to get to Malpensa, and which is best way to get there? Thank you!
Kathy and Jim <email>
Oregon, WI USA Sun 01/16/2005
Car Rental in Ireland
Paula~~I would use Dan Dooley car rental. You could pick up the car at Shannon Airport and they have several offices around Ireland so you could return the car at another location if you wanted to. You can reach them at 1-800-331-9301.
Robin <email>
Oh USA Sun 01/16/2005
Jet lag prevention
Sue's question was how to avoid the pain of jetlag when she returns home after only a few days. So far, all of the advice seems to be based on the theories of adjusting to jetlag based on a long stay, but that will only exacerbate the condition when she returns home. Sue won’t be in France long enough to adjust to their time. What she need to do is not adjust. She needs to keep her biological clock on her home time.
Sue, listen to everything the “experts" tell you to do to avoid jetlag, and then do the opposite. Convince your body that you are still at home. Sleep until noon in a shaded room. Stay awake until 2am Paris time. Do everything as you would by your home clock.
Then when you get home, your body won’t even know you were gone.
Larry <email>
CO USA Sun 01/16/2005
Riomaggiore Room
Hello,My fiance and I are traveling to Cinque Terre for our Honeymoon, and I'd like to book a room at La Dolce Vita in Riomaggiore, but the email address supplied in Rick's book does not appear to be in service (agonatal@tin.it). Does anyone have an updated address?Thanks,Brian
Brian Glaister <email>
Tempe, AZ USA Sun 01/16/2005
German/Austrian transportation
My mother and I are planning a trip to Germany/Austria in May, and are unsure what kind of railpass to get. We plan to land in Frankfurt and end up in Vienna. Of our thirteen night trip, only two nights will be spent in Germany, so I don't think a multi-country pass is needed. Do Austrian flexipasses include inner-city transportation? Should I buy an Austrian flexipass and simply buy one-way tickets for the German parts of our trup?In short, I'm lost!!p.s. car rental is not an option (long story)Many thanks!
Amy <email>
Richboro, PA USA Sun 01/16/2005
Car rental and other ?
Hi there:My family (4 adults) are planning a self-catered drive of Ireland in April, landing at the Shannon Airport. From there..who knows?
Some of my questions are:Car rentals..best company?esp for under 30.Senior discounts/general passesHandicap-should I rent/purchase a wheelhchair here or try to find one in Ireland? I can walk..just not distances due to back/lungs.
Does anyone know what a "HOB" is? We've seen that for some of the cottage listings. Any cottage favorites?
THANKS
Paula <email>
Manchester, nh USA Sun 01/16/2005
London to Normandy
What is the best way to get from London to Normandy and the D-Day beaches. Planning a trip this summer. Four of us traveling. I know I will rent a car in France when we get there. thanks
rudybaggers <email>
Stillwater, MN USA Sun 01/16/2005
Landings and Takeoffs
Lynda~~Hi, I'm Ohio, I have another idea for you. If you plan on keeping a journal of your trip, you could be writing in the journal during take off and landings. If you like to read, buy a paperback to read, it wil also help pass the time. Hope you have a great trip. Oops! Hit the enter key to soon.
Robin <email>
Oh USA Sun 01/16/2005
Landings and Takeoffs
Lynda~~Hi, I'm Ohio, I have another idea for you. If you plan on keeping a journal of your trip, you could be writing in the journal during take off and landings. If you like to read, buy a paperback to read, it wil also help pass the time. Hope you have a great trip.
USA Sun 01/16/2005
Gatwick to Heathrow
Peggy~~You can take the Jetlink coach (bus) from Gatwick to Heathrow. After you get your luggage go the the coach station on the ground floor in the south terminal. It's a 70 minute ride (might be a littler longer), it depends on the traffic. The cost is 12BP. If you have any questions you could call Jetlink, number is 011-44-870-574-7777.
Robin <email>
Oh USA Sun 01/16/2005
French Language Immersion Course/Camp
I am going to France for a month in 2006 and am looking for a way to learn French. I do have CDs, books, etc. but am wondering if anyone's heard of a good immersion course/adult camp in the US (preferably eastern 1/2) that runs for 1-2 weeks in late spring or summer. Please send me email with any information: bsbk@webtv.net
Beth <email>
Marco Island, FL USA Sun 01/16/2005
Transportation btw. Gatwich and Heathrow
I have to transfer from Gatwich to Heathrow coming home from Europe. I'm flying BA. Do they have an easy transport system between the 2 airports? Thanks for any info. I have appx. 3 hours between flights. Returning june 21, 2005.
Peggy <email>
Riverton, WY USA Sun 01/16/2005
Transportation btw. Gatwich and Heathrow
I have to transfer from Gatwich to Heathrow coming home from Europe. I'm flying BA. Do they have an easy transport system between the 2 airports? Thanks for any info. I have appx. 3 hours between flights.
USA Sun 01/16/2005
Pension Lindner
You can also get to their website at www.pension-lindner.com. I figured that out from the email address that Graham gave.
USA Sun 01/16/2005
Munich Map
FOR PAT and anyone else travelling to Munich, may I suggest that you visit this excellent map facility...http://www.hot-maps.de/europe/germany/bavaria/munich/homede.html
Graham <email>
WALES Sun 01/16/2005
PENSION LINDNER, MUNICH
Re: HOTEL PENSION LINDNER, MUNICH.This hotel is in Dultstrasse just South of Marienplatz. The e-mail address is...info@pension-lindner.com If you wish to visit the website, you will first have to access...http://www.muenchen-tourist.de/englisch/zimmeressen/muenchen-zimmeressen-einleitung_e.htm, which is the link to all Munich hotels, and click on "city centre hotels". Scroll down the page towards the bottom.
Graham <email>
WALES Sun 01/16/2005
Pension Linder in Munich
Does anyone know the e-mail address of the Pension Linder in Munich? It is in the old town and close to Marienplatz.
Pat
TN. USA Sat 01/15/2005
Sevilla Spain Accomodations for 3
I'm interested in resonably priced accomodations in Seville. We will be staying 5 nights. I've looked into short term apartments for the stay. Has anybody tried that route?
Pat <email>
Plano, TX USA Sat 01/15/2005
driving: Eastern Europe
Has anyone driven in Eastern Europe? I would like to plan a big city at each end--like Prague and Krakow--so that we could pick up the car after touring the first city and drop it before touring the final one, and drive around the Polish & Czech countryside in between. What kinds of driving experiences have people had in these areas?
Jinny <email>
St. Louis, MO USA Sat 01/15/2005
Jet lag
We found it helpful to get plenty of sleep the three nights prior to the long flight--especially the night before. Sleep in late that morning if possible. Personally I hardly ever can get much sleep on a plane but my husband sleeps 4 hrs or so.
sbpp
FL USA Sat 01/15/2005
for Stewart re: Paris excursions
Stewart ~ We did both during our trip to Paris last summer. The Channel Tunnel from Paris was easy to get to, enjoyable to ride and Waterloo is in a convenient location to many sights. If you're doing a same day-RT, as we did, you'll obviously want to take an EARLY trip in and a late return. We mistakenly thought you could walk up to the window and request the tickets and they cost would be what Rick says they are..... no such luck. If we'd have gone the 1st day we went to the station, the cost would have been maybe 250Euros, each! We went back and checked online and found some that were still much pricier than we had originally planned, but we managed to find 2 1st class tickets that were cheaper than any "coach" seats for that day. Lucky us. So if you're looking online, keep a keen eye for that. We also rented a car for 3 days for a day in Chartres, and 2 nights at Chambord. I don't think Chambord would be convenient for a day trip, but Chartres would be.
A couple of other places to consider... we found Versailles a great day trip. What an amazing place! We didn't go to Chantilly, but it's also just outside Paris. Monet-buff friends of ours went to Giverney from Paris and loved it. And we also included a trip to Lille into our schedule. I know Rick doesn't "cover" it, but I found it to be lovely and very interesting. I can't remember if it is Saturdays or Sundays, but they have HUGE open market/flea markets in Lille and we spent hours walking around and looking at everything.
Enjoy your adventures ~ and if you would like any specifics, feel free to email.
jdcwfc <email>
atlanta area, ga USA Sat 01/15/2005
Train Ticket - Camucia
Rhoda. There is a travel agengy booth on the platform where you catch the Leonardo Express to Termini. It's on the left as you face the tracks (opposite side from FS booth). I've purchased train tickets there and would do so again. Price should be same as at station and they speak fluent english.
Frank
Wilmington, DE USA Sat 01/15/2005
ATM LOCATIONS
For travelers using "Mastercard" or "Visa", the following ATM locating facilities should be helpful...http://www.mastercard.com/atmlocator/index.jsp and http://visa.via.infonow.net/locator/global/jsp/SearchPage.jsp
USA Sat 01/15/2005
Jet Lag Prevention
The first few trips to Europe I suffered terrible jet-lag which lasted for several days. I finally figured out I must do something to change this as I was wasting time and energy feeling out-of-it for most of the first week in Europe. I tried the diet program, the No-Jet-Lag pills, melatonin, and vit B complex regimen. What works best for me is to SLEEP ON THE PLANE. As soon as I'm fed and watered, 2-3 hours into the 11 hour flight, I adjust my neck pillow, click my seat back one click, and sleep 3-5 hours. Wow. What a difference. I like to arrive later in the day at my destination. Late morning to mid-afternoon. Then I can get settled in my hotel, walk around, have a meal, and go to bed sometime after dark. I usually am awake in the middle of the night for a few nights, but I don't mind that.
USA Sat 01/15/2005
Trains to the Cinque Terre
Look for trains going to La Spezia, a major stop for most trains along the coast just south ot the Cinque Terre. Many major trains also stop in Monterosso, the northernmost CT town. From either of these towns the local train will take you to the other towns.
USA Sat 01/15/2005
Airport Hotel in BCN
My husband and I will be flying out of Barcelona at the ungodly hour of 6:45. I figure we need to be at the airport around 4 am. We will be travelling from lleida on sunday. Could anyone recommend an affordable hotel near the airport? I have a hard time spending like $100 on a hotel we'll be in for like 5 hours. :)
Megan <email>
Vancouver, WA USA Fri 01/14/2005
Courtesy
If you ask a question and provide your e-mail address, you are inviting personal, detailed responses. If someone takes the time and trouble to e-mail you with detailed tips and answers to your question, it is only common courtessy to reply with a "thanks." In the past ten days or so, I have sent six detailed, helpful responses about little-known areas, based on my personal experience---and only one respondent replied to acknowledge the message. bottom line: If you don't want a personal reply, say so in your post, or don't give your e-mail address.
Decline to give
USA Fri 01/14/2005
CINQUE TERRE
CinqueTerreKristin~~~~See Linda's response below.~~~ Cinque Terre is the name of the region.~~~~It means five lands~~~~~The villages reading from North to South are: Monterosso (the largest and most commercial), Vernazza (the quaintest and probably the smallest), Cornigilia, Manarola (the most interesting), and Riomaggiore.~~~~When you do a search on the net you must enter the town name.~~~ There are several local trains daily serving all villages which takes only 5 minutes between villages.~~~ To get a feel for the area you should hike the trail between villages as far as you can. It is quite fatiguing, but well worth doing.~~~ Some people in our group took a full day and hiked the entire trail between all five villages.
m hallohand
nyc, ny USA Fri 01/14/2005
MONEY EXCHANGE ATM CARDS IN EUROPE
Katrina~~~My ATM card shows Pulse and Cirrus on the back.~~~~~ I always look for a machine showing these two names.~~~~ I never have a problem withdrawing money.~~~ And I have used my card in over 20 countries from Thailand in the West to Russia in the East.~~~~If you will look for the trade names on the back of your card and find an ATM machine with those names you should have no problem.Rudolpho El paso
RUDOLPHO S.
EL PASO, TX USA Fri 01/14/2005
trips out from Paris
Stewart~~~~sorry I forgot to provide the name of the B&B near Ambois--LaFleuray. Mick Jagger sometimes rents out the entire place!
Nancy
Ga USA Fri 01/14/2005
trips outside Paris
Stewart~~~~~We stayed at a very nice B&B just outside of Ambois. It was a great place to stay for visiting some Chateaux--near Chambord, Chenenceau, & Cheverney. Monet's garden at Giverny will not open until April so you are not likely to go there but there is a really delightful B&B there, LaReserve. It is a wonderful area with great little restaurants in Vernon as well as Giverny. Some Chateaux were burning logs in huge fire places when we were there in March. Ambois is a nice town also. Enjoy!
Nancy
Ga USA Fri 01/14/2005
QUICK TRIPS AND JET LAG
Sue~~~~~Jetlag will affect you variously depending on your age and your physical condition.~~~~~ Don’t let it deter you.~~~~~~~ I have made 16 Atlantic crossings.~~~~ The best advice I have heard is to hit the street as soon as you arrive.~~~~ Be active; don’t nap or go to bed early.~~~~ Stay up to bedtime local time and forget about time at home. ~~~~Your body will quickly adjust to what you want it to do. ~~~~On the flight to Europe, walk around every 20 minutes.~~~~ Drink lots of water–not alcohol or carbonated beverages.~~~~ Sleep only when you doze off. ~~~~ Stay awake so you don’t miss any meals.~~~~ Prepare mentally for landing by deciding you will have an active day. ~~~~ You will be ready for bedtime when it comes and you will probably sleep through the nite. ~~~~~ Set your alarm early enough to get a good breakfast that first day and plan a full and active day.~~~~I have found that it will work for me every time whether I fly to Hong Kong or Budapest.
MENASHING
CHICAGO, USA Fri 01/14/2005
siena to Cinqueterra
Cinqueterra is 5 villages. You need to use a village for the RR stop. Try Monterosso, Manarola, Vernazza, Rio Maggiore. Linda
Linda <email>
GC, PA USA Fri 01/14/2005
CinqueTerre
I am planning a trip to Italy, and want to go from siena to cinque-terre.What are my options? Every time I type it into the computer it tells me it's "ambiguous",yet I see rail connections on the map to Cinque-Terre.Does anyone know why I can not get a schedule for this stop on the websites? Any info. greatly appreciated.Also, does anyone know if there is baggage check in florence at train or bus station? thank you, Kristin Hart
Kristin <email>
cornelius, nc USA Fri 01/14/2005
TGV Paris to Zurich
I plan to travel by TGV train from Paris to Zurich on a Sunday in August. Should I purchase my ticket in advance here in the US or just get it when I'm in Paris?
Pat <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Fri 01/14/2005
FRA to Palermo
Germanwings.com flies from Cologne or Stuttgart to Rome for 19 EUR and up. Air One (flyairone.it/en) flies from Rome to Palermo for about 70 EUR.
Larry
CO USA Fri 01/14/2005
FRA to Palermo
If you go to German Rail's website (bahn.de) and enter FRA and Palermo, you will get a whole list of connections. Unfortunately only a few have prices. There is one set of connections leaving FRA at 8:54 and arriving in Palermo the next morning for about 192 EUR. That set does not include any sleeping accommodations. If you want a better selection, you can get more prices to Milan or Rome, and figure the rest of the trip by going to Rail Italy (www.trenitalia.com/en).
Any way you do it, the trip will take over 24 hours. You might consider flying one of the low cost airlines, but I couldn't find any good connections between Frankfurt and Palermo. Of course, when comparing costs, you have to add the price of an extra hotel night to the cost of the flights.
Larry <email>
CO USA Fri 01/14/2005
Excursions from Paris
We are heading to Paris mid-Feb for 10 days. We are dedicating 4 days to seeing Paris, but we are staying with friends there and want to take some excursions outside Paris as well. We'd like to do an overnight in London & perhaps an overnight in the Loire Valley (any intenerary / B&B / chateau recommendations?).
Stewart <email>
Seattle, WA USA Fri 01/14/2005
Honeymoon in Italy & Croatia
I'm looking for some advice about honeymooning in Italy and/or Croatia in July. We're getting married in Umbria, and really want to travel in both Italy and Croatia. We're having trouble prioritizing - do we stick to Northern Italy, Venice, and Croatia? Is Hv. too crowded in the summertime to have fun? We've got two weeks....Thanks!
Maggie Burr <email>
Farmington , me USA Fri 01/14/2005
Train ticket from Frankfurt to Palermo
Can anyone guide me on the availability and how to purchase train ticket from Frankfurt airport to Palermo - Italy? How much will it cost? Thanks.
Enoch Powell <email>
London, UK Fri 01/14/2005
Quick Trips... and Jet Lag
I am tempted to take advantage of weekend deals... 3 or 4 days in London or Paris would be wonderful, but not sure if it is worth the jetlag. It takes me about 5 or 6 days to fully recover after flying home from a 7 hour flight. (I don't seem to have a problem over there, though). Is the jet lag less if you've stayed at your destination for only a few days before returning?
Sue
Philadelphia, PA USA Thu 01/13/2005
Paris reply...and question
Sherry...I agree with the others. 3 days is not too little to enjoy Paris! My wife and I flew on a Friday and returned on a Monday back in 2003 just to get engaged! (Though she didn't know that was the reason for the trip at the time.)Now a question: can anyone give me the name of their favorite Paris hotel? We are returning this summer with family and many friends. Some will want luxury, some will want a budget hotel...so all suggestions are welcome! King size beds a PLUS!
Al <email>
Tiverton, RI USA Thu 01/13/2005
Transporting bikes by train in Belgium
I intend to rent a bike in Maastricht Holland and then travel by train to a small town just south of Liege.Would it be less expensive to purchase a bike ticket in Maastricht and travel to the Belgium border then purchase a ticket for the remainder of the trip?I have been told that it is much cheaper to ride your bike across the Belgium border then purchase a ticket.
Robert <email>
Austin, TX USA Thu 01/13/2005
London
Paul~~~I definitely would not recommend driving in London. We did it once, but NEVER again. i think you can drop it at Heathrow which would not be a problem after leaving stonehenge. You can get on tube at H. You did not mention how much time you will have in London but there is so much to see. Tower of London is #1 tourist attraction. There many museums, churches, London Eye, Buck palace for changing of the guard, Royal Mews, pubs, shopping, etc. Buy a guide book and decide what you want to see. Temple Church (as in DaVinci Code) was a must see on our last trip. And you have the theater, tea, and even day trips out if you have enough time. Windsor Castle is a good day trip. You will not run out of things to see!
Nancy
Ga USA Thu 01/13/2005
Re: Yelena- night train from Prague-Budapest
Yelene- I agree with Robin below- you should be fine if you get a private sleeping compartment. I did that on an over-night train from Berlin to Dusseldorf and stored my backpack in the over-head racks provided. Had no problem at all and enjoyed a comfortable night's sleep!
Train travel at night actually is a great way to maximize your day-time sight-seeing time, especially if you get a private sleeping compartment. Even if it costs more, view this as your hotel bill for the night.
Perhaps verify this with the Hungarian Tourist office you spoke with- perhaps the woman you spoke with knows of problems on THAT particular route, but with the private sleeper, you should be set. Budapest is a great city- enjoy!
Lawrence <email>
New York, NT USA Thu 01/13/2005
Rome to Florence
There is a shuttle, the Leonardo Express, from Fiumicino directly to Rome Termini station. The shuttle leaves every half hour, costs about €10 pP, and takes 35 minutes. From Termini there are quite a few EuroStar trains to Florence for about €30. They take about 1 1/2 hr. There are also some InterCity trains for €25. They take 2 1/2 hours.
Larry <email>
CO USA Thu 01/13/2005
rome to florance
please hep me .how can ı go from Fiumicino Airport to florance..train ,bus or anything else.thank you very much
tolga <email>
bursa, bursa tr Thu 01/13/2005
Spain, France, England
Four friends and I are taking a trip to Spain, France, and England beginning on March 10. I lived in Spain for a few years so I am familiar with the country. However I would like to get some info on Paris. Where would you recommend staying? We only have a couple of days there, so what are the absolute must see places? We are then flying to northern England to either Manchester or Leeds to visit some friends for a couple of days. Does anyone know of cheap flights from Paris to Manchester, Leeds, or even Nottingham. We then are going to spend the last couple of days in London. We currently are thinking about renting a car and driving to visit Stonehenge and then into London. Is this going to be the best way of traveling? What are the requirements for renting a car in England? What are the must sees for London? If anyone has any info or tips for any of this trip I would love to hear from you. Thanks
Paul <email>
Logan, UT USA Thu 01/13/2005
Paris
you can see a lot in 3 1/2 days in Paris. Other sights to consider: Pere LaChaise cemetery (free--map costs about $1), area around Sacre Coeur--one of highest points in Paris & you can ride the funicular out there, Rodin Gallery, Napoleon's Tomb, and the dept stores are fun to browse for a short while--Samartaine & Bon Marche--great food mkt & a good souvenir place. And if you read the DaVinci code you may want to visit St Sulpice---I will have to revisit that church when i get back to Paris. this could be seen in 20 minutes or so.
Nancy
Ga USA Thu 01/13/2005
Sherry, re: Paris in 3
Sherry ~ You're definitely not crazy! When we were there for 2 weeks this summer, we were able to take a more relaxed pace to see our sights - but I STILL felt like I missed so many things to do and see! Your schedule sounds very reasonable. I would suggest an early start to your days to avoid the lines. Both the Arc and the Eiffel get really long lines in the afternoons... but if you started at the Arc early morning, walked to the top, just inhaled that view, strolled/shopped along the Champs Elysee and enjoyed a nice leisurely lunch (maybe early to get a good table for people watching!), you could end at les Tuileries and rest your feet, or go in late to the Louvre for some major works. While any time of day is amazing to see and ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower, it's lovely in the evening with the lights. The crowds die down around 5pm ish... you can go to the top, take in another amazing view of Paris, and enjoy the lights on the tower just after dusk. This would give you free time during the day. We took in Notre Dame and then St. Chappelle the same day. It's a short little walk between the two, and there are many "touristy" souvenir shops along the way.
Something else you might want to consider is taking a Bateaux Mouches boat ride down the Seine. Ours was late afternoon/early evening and very relaxing. We also got some great pictures. I believe you can also use them as a "hop on/hop off" floating taxi. Easy way to get to all of your major sights. Have a wonderful trip ~ and if you have any questions, feel free to email.
jdcwc <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 01/13/2005
Wedding rings
Before we get too far, does anyone know if there are customs duties on jewelry and how much?
What is the personal allowance for free for products brought into this country.
Larry
CO USA Wed 01/12/2005
Wedding Rings, continued
It is me again. It won't let me send you an e-mail, but I will contact someone I know that lives in Italy and I will ask her if she knows any good jewelery shops there. I will post it here if I find out.
Callie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 01/12/2005
Wedding Rings
I think that is a great idea! I have no idea about prices, because I never looked at jewelery seriously in Italy, but I think it is worth a try. If you keep it in mind that you very well may not find what you're looking for, and don't try too hard, then if you do happen to find one, great! Otherwise, no harm in looking, right? If you can't find them, no harm done because you can buy them when you return home. I say go for it =)
Callie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 01/12/2005
Hotel Expres Prage - red light?
Hotel Expres in Prague is noted by Rick Steves as being in the Red light district. Price of hotel and location are good. trying to determine the noise leve around the hotel and if "red light" means a shop or two or is the whole street? Any one know?
Leslie <email>
McLean, va USA Wed 01/12/2005
Paris
Sherry ~~ no you aren't crazy! You can see alot in 3 1/2 days, plus enjoy some out door cafes and do some people watching. You will be able to see all you mentioned. I would never miss an opportunity to go to Paris
USA Wed 01/12/2005
Blades Hotel
Jack~ Blades Hotel website isenquiries@blades-hotel.co.ukphone #011 44 207 976 5552
Robin <email>
Oh USA Wed 01/12/2005
Night Trains
Yelena~~if you are planning on getting a sleeping compartment for two (they are like bunk beds), you can put your luggage inside and lock the compartment door. You could also get a sleeperettes (comfortable reclining) seats, and again there are racks above where you can put your luggage. My daughter and I had a sleeping compartment from Oslo to Copenhagen, didn't have one bit of trouble. The porter comes around and knocks on the door to let you know that you are nearing your destinaion. Then from Berlin to Amsterdam we had couchette which was comfortable and our luggage was above us, and again no trouble. I think that you would be fine and would enjoy taking the night train.Go and enjoy!!!
Robin
Oh USA Wed 01/12/2005
Rail pass Switz/vegie food
RAIL OPTIONS: Staying in Switzerland longer than one month? You can purchase a 1 year 50% off pass for just 150SF. (Look up Swiss rail SBB) A one month pass is listed in USA as $76.00. Even if you don't use it more than 2 months, you save. Veggie eaters traveling to Switz.- Manor restaurants are great, fresh food!!
dee <email>
Hakalau, HI USA Wed 01/12/2005
Night train from Prague to Budapest?
My husband and I were planning to take night train from Prague to Budapest to save time for sightseeing but lady in New York Budapest York Hungarian Tourist office discouraged us. She said luggage often gets stolen on these trains and recommended taking day train instead. Is she too pessimistic? Also, I was wondering if it is ok to buy train tickets and reservations in Prague (3-4 days in advance) or is it better to buy tickets in advance in New York?
Yelena <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA Wed 01/12/2005
blades hotel
I have heard much about the blades hotel in London but would like their web .thanks
jack <email>
Sheboygan, wi USA Wed 01/12/2005
9 week trip
I am not good at math in my head so didn't add up all your days but I usually plan three days in each place but I would spend at least four days in paris and more in swuitzerland skipping zurich and gong more for the Berner Oberland and Maybe Chamonoix for two days they have a great cable car ride to about 10,000+ feet I assume you are taking a train it is the easiest and lest stressfull unless you are trying to do too much in too short a time. Whay are you going back to italy from Dubrovnick I'm sure you probably can get a ferry from there to Greece without backtrackingDon't forget Brugges as the other person stated one good day is plenty but if you are staying in Belgium I would stay in Brugges instead of Belgium.
Five days is too much time for London unless you are taking some day trips otside the city
i would take the Chunnel train instead of fly to amsterdam or if that is too expensive take a ferry they still run I believe.. If you have a eurail pass you still qualify for the pass rate on the shunnel train even if you don't have a pass of great britain.
To avoid the expense of the Thalys take a regualr train from Belgium to Lille in France and then the regualr TGV from Lille to paris they run hourly and the reservation fee if you do it in France or ever the phoe from here with a credit card is only about 3 euros compared to 13 or 26 I would spend five days in paris rather than London and as I said before i would take the regualr TGV from paris to Geneva Then to the Bernese Oberland. The train ride around Lac Leman is Beautiful with the mountains looking like they rise right out of the lake When you get to domdollorossa in Italy take the Centifalli Line and do lake region before going to Milano or the main rail line goes right by Lake maggiore which is nice to and you could stop off at Stressa. I would then go to Florence, the Italian Riviera and Pisa then on to Rome and NaPles then take a night train to Venice then to dubrovnik and Greece. Why did you leave out Athens. Nine weeks seems like a long time but i think you may still be rushed Try to keep your schedule somewhat flexible so if you want to just stop for a day or two you can
Janice L. Killingbeck <email>
Saginaw, MI USA Wed 01/12/2005
atms
this is in response to the remark about having trouble using ATM cards in EuropeWe do it all the time and have no trouble just make sure that you can access allof your money in one day if you need to some cards have limits and although this is not supposed to be true out of the country I would make sure anyway before I left also I live in a tow where the banks must send away for the foreign currency so charge you a fee in addition to the exchange rate. I always get the amount of spending money i think I will need my first day at the atm at the airport usually within a few feet of the place you come throgh customs i tried exchanging cash at a bank in paris but they said no banks did that anymore so i had to find a place that was open the next day for currency exchange only and the rate was outrageous
We usualy get only cash advances putting only our hotel room and a few meals on the card it is easier that way
this is a debit card so we know exactly how much is in it and we estimate high on the exchange rate because the first time we didn't and had a lot to make up when we got home. We don't use credit cards at all Keep a running total of how much you spend and if you are getting too close maybe you can get someone at home to put in more money for you We often do that with paychecks that come while we are gone
Also don't wait until just before you leave to get an ATM card or start direct deposit checking Sometimes new accounts are more limited than established ones
Janice L. Killingbeck <email>
Saginaw, MI USA Wed 01/12/2005
whirlwind trip to paris
I would never give up a chance to go to Paris and three days will give you plenty of time to do what you mention expecially if you have been there before have a good time I love it better every time I go and my first trip was only 3 days plus inday and out day and I didn't feel rushed either
Janice L. Killingbeck <email>
Saginaw, MI USA Wed 01/12/2005
Forget about it! Too expensive. What about quality issues? Maybe a small piece of jewlery would be a nicer piece to bring home. What if you can't find the piece you really like- the pressure of trying to find the one ring you both really like. Why take time from your honeymoon to go shopping for something as important as your rings? Look for a nice pin or maybe buy a couple of matching necklaces, or braclets instead. Just one readers opinion!
USA Wed 01/12/2005
jewelry in Italy
Leanne~~~~I can see the romantic side of buying the rings in Italy and I cannot speak for all areas, but the jewelry we saw in the bridge shops in Florence looked expensive. With the dollar so weak I don't think you will find good values. the merchants did, however, seem to want to make a deal. I found them pushy and I would not buy any of it without careful consideration.
Jamie
FL USA Wed 01/12/2005
Re: Maureen- Ski Clothes
I would advise brining your own ski clothes, as I think it will be difficult to rent them. When I skied in St. Anton and St. Jacob (in Austria) a few years back (skied 3 days on a 15 day trip to Germany/Austria), I packed items that I could wear for both skiing AND sight-seeing/walking around the cities.
The trick to ski clothes is layering, so I would advise bringing a medium weight wool sweater or fleece that you can wear repeatedly (over, say, a thermal top and a long- sleeve t-shirt or thin turtle neck when skiing). And you need a warm jacket while walking around the cities (such as Munich), so rather than wear a wool coat, I would just advise bringing 1 ski jacket and that will be the jacket you wear all the time. That way you can pack enough light weight- t-shirts/thin turtle necks, etc. that don't take up as much room, but only 1 heavy sweater or fleece and the only extra "bulky" item you must pack are your ski pants.
One last tip- bring a small back-pack with all of your ski essentials (turtle neck, ski gloves, hat, long underwear, goggles, etc.), so that these items are easily located when you hit the slopes. I did this and stored the back-pack in the lockers near the ski rental area. I think you'll find this convenient. Enjoy the slopes!
Lawrence <email>
New York, NY USA Wed 01/12/2005
Quick trip to Paris
My sister and I just booked a quick trip to Paris, we will only be there 3 1/2 days, but the fare was only $310 round trip. I've been before, but this will be her first trip to Paris, someone please tell me we are not crazy for going to Paris for a long weekend!
I figure we can see the Louvre, Musee Dorsay, Notre Dame, St. Chappelle, Eifel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and walk the Champs Elysee and fit in some shopping.
Sherry <email>
Memphis, USA Wed 01/12/2005
wedding rings
Hi! My fiance and I are planning to go to Germany and Italy on our honeymoon. We were thinking of using "stand in" rings during the wedding ceremony here in the states and then buying real wedding rings while in Italy. If it doesn't work out while we're there, we'll just buy something when we get home, we just thought it would be a great souvenir to have! First, is this a good idea? I've never bought jewelry overseas, and I'm a little scared about what I'll find there. How do prices compare?
Second, anyone know of a reputable jeweler in either Venice, Vernazza (in the Cinque Terre region), or Rome (we're spending 3-4 days in each place)? Thanks for any advice you may have!
Leanne <email>
Nashville, TN USA Wed 01/12/2005
Handicap access to Vatican Museum
Does anyone know if you can tour the Vatican Museum/Sistine Chapel in a wheelchair? Do any of the tour groups offer a "handicap tour"? Any information on this subject will be appreciated!!
USA Wed 01/12/2005
tourest maps
Where can I purchase tourest city maps for major scandinavian cities ???
joe karg <email>
alamo, ca USA Wed 01/12/2005
9 wk trip
Ben in Miami~~~~how lucky for you to have nine whole weeks of travel! It would take quite a while to review your entire plan. At first glance I would say you will not want that much time in Brussels. Brugges should be on your travel plan---much more charming that Brussels.
Nancy
USA Wed 01/12/2005
Lynda~take offs are not bad. Just relax and think about the wonderful trip you will have. You can not have any CD player, radio, etc., on during take off or landings. I feel sure that you will do fine.
Oh USA Wed 01/12/2005
Switzerland & N. Italy budget
Looking for economy B&B style accom. in S. Switzerland and Piedemonte to italian rivera region of Italy for spring trip. Using RS listings any other suggestions out there.Thanks in advance
JS <email>
CA USA Wed 01/12/2005
Money exchange/ATM cards in Europe
My comments on posts made a few days ago... My experiences with bank ATM cards in europe was not a good one. I specifically told my banker that I wanted the card for when i was in europe, specifically spain. However, once my cash was low and i was buying souveniers it didn't work at any of the stores or most ATM machines. I finally found a certain type of ATM outside large city banks that worked, but it was nervrewracking not knowing how i was going to pay for things. A call to the bank/card company didn't help either.
My advice is to have more than one was to pay for things. I don't like to carry a lot of cash, money belt or not. Depending where you are the ATM card could work just fine, but be careful. I'm also not sure why you feel that it is necessary to exchange money at the airport. I have always exchanged money through my local bank before departure. It's one less thing to do later!
Katrina
USA Tue 01/11/2005
Iberia airlines
Ann...I have flown on Iberia four times now, twice as a single traveler, and did not have any problems. I know spanish, but i'm sure you will have no problems with communication. Most of them speak english and some perhaps german since it is quite close. For affordable tickets it is great. Enjoy your trip!
Katrina
USA Tue 01/11/2005
Ski clothes rental
Traveling to Germany and Salzburg in Feb. We would like to go skiing 1 or 2 times (depending on how the 1st time is!!!)Anyway, we would really like to leave all the bulky ski clothes at home, can you rent ski clothes anywhere? Or does everyone bring their own?
Maureen Schmidt <email>
Winfield, Il USA Tue 01/11/2005
Mail to Italy
Hello,Here I am with another question. I mailed a deposit for an apartment rental in Rome. I mailed from the U.S. to Italy. I mailed it on the afternoon of the 31st of Jan. and the person there has still not received it. The post office here told me it would take 4-7 days. Should I be concerned or does that seem typical?Love this site and the great & considerate responses. Very addicting. Thanks especially to Larry & Graham.
Kathy Zerby <email>
New Brighton , MN USA Tue 01/11/2005
Cell Phone in Europe
We are traveling to Europe (France, very northern Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Germany) in June, and I was wondering about cell phones in Europe. I know I need a GSM phone, but what about service?
Elizabeth Hillyer <email>
Sacramento, CA USA Tue 01/11/2005
Dolomites in April
According to my "Trekking in the Dolomites", "The Dolomites have a relatively brief trekking season that begins in mid-June and has all but finished by the end of September. . . If you try to trek at the beginning of the season (mid-June) you also run the risk of trudging through some late-lying snow." Skiing would be a better choice than hiking for April.
Jeff <email>
Bend, OR USA Tue 01/11/2005
Senior Air Traveler
Roger,I read your post and now I have a better idea what to expect and I agree listening to music sounds like a good idea too. Thank you and I hope you have a nice trip to Vienna. LyndaLynda
USA Tue 01/11/2005
Re: Berlin-Prague by Train
Berlin to Prague by train is easily done (I did it in the opposite direction- started in Prague and took train to Berlin and then traveled around Germany). BUT, it does take 5 hours, so doing all this in 1 day would be tight, as even if you left Berlin very early in the morning, you would only have 1 afternoon in Prague.
I would recommend leaving 2 days for this and consider traveling at night to maximize time. You can leave Berlin late afternoon/early evening, arrive in Prague at night, then wake up early next day to sight-see in Prague. I would advise spending that night in Prague, spend the next morning doing some more sight-seeing in Prague and then take train back to Berlin that afternoon (i.e.- leave Berlin Monday PM, Monday and Tuesday nights in Prague, ½ day Prague sight-seeing on Wed., train back to Berlin Wed PM)
With limited time, I would advise a walking tour, to maximize your site-seeing experience. Several tour group co.s all meet under the Astronomical clock in the Old Town Square and then go out from there. I took 2 "Prague Walks" tours- 1 of the Jewish Quarter and 1 of Prague Castle and found both very informative. Take a little while to see Wencelas Square, but, as this is the more modern part of the city, I would not advise spending as much time here. Be sure to get in a good Czech restaurant at night to enjoy the GREAT Czech beer (and guess your kids can just have Cokes!).
Prague is a beautiful city- you are sure to enjoy it.
Lawrence <email>
New York, NY USA Tue 01/11/2005
Need advice on my itinerary
Starting July 5th Hi,I’m planning my first trip to Europe. I'll be going alone. I need help on how many days Ishould stay in Italy & Greece and if you suggest any places I should stop off at throughout mytravel. I’m going for 9 weeks. Is this realistic? Thanks
England: London;
5 Days
-Fly
London to Amsterdam
Holland: Amsterdam;
5 Days
-Train
from Amsterdam to Brussels
Belgium: Brussels;
3 Days
-Train
from Brussels to Paris
France: Paris; 3Days
-Trainfrom Paris to Zurich
Switzerland: Zurich;
2 Days
-Trainfrom Zurich to Milan
Italy: Rome, Florence, Venice,Italian Riviera, Milan, Lake Como, Almafi Coast,Isle of Capri; Length not determined
-Ferryto Croatia
Croatia: Hvar and the Dalmatian Coast,Dubrovnik; Length not determined
-Ferryback to Italy, then to Greek Islands
-Greece: Cyclades - Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Ios, Milos; LND Ionians- Corfu
-Flyout of Athens, Greece
Ben <email>
Miami, fl USA Tue 01/11/2005
No Top Sheet okay
No top sheet is not unusual at least in cooler countries where there is a sheet covered duvet. NICE places we stayed at in Norway also had 2 individual duvets on the double bed instead of one large one. We have adopted this practice at home for winter - it is very cozy.
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Tue 01/11/2005
J. Griffith~~yes, it is usual practice in Europe. But I have found that most hotels and B&B's use top sheets, because they know that a lot of other places use top sheets. When I have stayed with friends in Norway and England there hasn' been a top sheet. Our daughter has now started not using a top sheet. Personally, I like not using a top sheet. I have stayed in a few B&B's where there wasn't a top sheet.
Oh USA Mon 01/10/2005
mailing back to US
If you are mailing anything back to the US I would not advise using USPS. When in Ireland we purchsed sweaters & paid duty there. I failed to ask the method of shipping. The package was sent via the reg postal system and we had to pay $45 to claim them at the post office. Be sure to request UPS or a similar system. At the Waterford factory they are very organized and do not use the reg mail system--excellent luck with them.
Nancy
Ga USA Mon 01/10/2005
Intra-Europe Airlines
My wife and I want to fly from Krakow to Amsterdam; then about a week later from Brussels back to Krakow; during late Mar 05 and early Apr 05. The international airlines' rates are very high. We have heard that the intra-Europe airlines have very reasonable rates, but we are concerned about the service/equipment that they offer. Two airlines we have seen listed are Sky Europe & Wizzair. Does anyone have experience flying on these 2 airlines --good or bad? Is there another intra-Europe airline we should consider?
Jim G. <email>
Danville, IL USA Mon 01/10/2005
Sheet-less
J., you are not alone. On a luxury B&B tour of Ireland a couple of years ago, we had a similar experience with no top sheet - in the most expensive accommodation of them all! I hated the feeling of my feet sticking out from the bottom of the duvet and wondered what THAT was all about! When in doubt, ask the proprietor before hand, I guess.
GCP
CO USA Mon 01/10/2005
Visiting the Italian Dolomites in April? Northern Italy travel advice appreciated!
Visiting the Italian Dolomites in April? Northern Italy travel advice appreciated!
My husband has a training to do at Lago de Garda, Italy on April 11-14, 2005. (I'm along to "carry his bags". ;) We can vacation the week before and maybe a few days after. We need help to decide where best to go. The 2005 RS Italy book doesn't cover the Lakes except Lake Como...
ONE THOUGHT: Is it possible to hike in the Dolomites in early April? (We're med-good hikers in our early 40s.) I know the alpine weather in CA and am concerned. And are there any good local places to stay? Many places close off-season. Any advice or leads? What about mountain huts or staying on farms?
Any other suggestions on where to visit in northern Italy are VERY appreciated! We will visit Venice for sure (my husband hasn't seen it). We would love a good cooking school lead--something small and authentic where you really get to cook.
(FYI--we loved Siena in 2001. Rick was absolutely right about recommending that one as a home base.)
FYI: As a former Peace Corps volunteer, I love getting to meet the locals & their culture. And animals. My husband does, too. His family came from Germany. We both love Italy and have visited there before. And we're very much RS style travelers.
Thank you!!! Grazie.
Elaine <email>
San Jose, CA USA Mon 01/10/2005
bedsheets
In years of travel to a variety of countries we have never experienced not having a top sheet. Most places were reasonably priced--a few splurge places but not having the top sheet sounds like a hostel accomodation.
Jamie
FL USA Mon 01/10/2005
City Shuttles from CDG to Paris
Try www.bluvan.fr. This looks like the company you described.
Rick Manyik
Chicago, IL USA Mon 01/10/2005
Finding formal wear in Vienna
My boyfriend and I have tickets for the Johann Strauss ball in Vienna on March 19, and are struggling with the dress code. We have been instructed to wear 'evening formal attire,' but would rather not waste precious packing space on high heels and cummerbunds. Does anyone know of a tux rental place in Vienna that is open on Sunday for returns (we're leaving town late that night) or have suggestions as to whether I should buy a dress here, there or try to rent?
Hanna <email>
Asheville, NC USA Mon 01/10/2005
Re: Dolomites
Susan -- check out the Dolomites section of the RS Italy book for several suggestions, including what we did: daytripped from Bolzano to Castlerotto (sp?) (short bus ride), where we did some sort of bus/chairlift combination to a spectacular -- and fairly strenuous -- 12-mi hike. Even if you don't hike, the scenery around there is beautiful, and there are buses going from Bolzano to the different towns all day. We left early in the morning and got back in the evening.
Kristin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Mon 01/10/2005
Munich and Salzburg
1-10-05I see a lot to do in Rick's Germany, Austria and Swit. book for the nice weather. My question to whom ever has experienced the winter in Germany and Austria is this really a good time to travel to these areas? My husband and I are planning on arriving in Munich Feb. 4th. Traveling to Salzburg and back to Munich to fly home. We would like to travel by train to many of the smaller towns mentioned in the book. Many of the attractions mentioned appear to be closed for the winter. We would love to go skiing (a given) but would also like to try a luge ride. Any open in the winter? Near Salzburg there is a restaurant that will take you to the top of some mountain in a snowcat where they have dinner, fun and games and then sled down the mountain in the snowcat tracks at the end of the night. Anyone know the name of this place and where I can find more info on it?Thank You.Maureen
Maureen Schmidt <email>
Winfield, Il USA Mon 01/10/2005
City Shuttles from CDG to Paris
CDG to ParisWill arrive at CDG at 5 PM- from departure gate, how to find a shuttle to take 3 60ish travelers to our rented apartment, near Montparnasse Tower? Have used the Blue Shuttle on other visits, from the city to the airport, but need help finding the location of the shuttles upon arrival.
B. Jones <email>
WA USA Sun 01/09/2005
Left Luggage Cherbourg
Can anyone let me know if there is a left luggage facility at Cherbourg railway Station in france?
Warren Short <email>
Tamworth, NSW AustraliaUSA Sun 01/09/2005
re: Senior air traveler
Lynda~~The take-off feels like a fairly gradual incline, to me -- nothing to be concerned about. But be prepared for the possibility of some turbulence during the flight -- again, nothing to be concerned about. It may feel like you're driving on a very bumpy road, perhaps with some big potholes. If you're concerned, look at the flight attendants -- they have felt turbulence of all kinds, literally hundreds of times. If they look calm -- and I'm sure they will -- then you should feel confident that nothing is wrong. The plane is well-designed to handle the air density changes that cause the turbulence, and it is all normal. Read a book, listen to music, and relax! Have a good trip.
Roger
Madison, CT USA Sun 01/09/2005
Just 5 hours in Vienna
We will have a 5-hour lay-over in Vienna on our way home from a vacation in May. Will we have time to get into the city? Any suggestions on what to see or do in that short time?
Roger <email>
Madison, CT USA Sun 01/09/2005
mailing back to the US
We have mailed things back to the US using a box number that was rented at a Mail Box store. They kept the items until we got back to the US. The customs that needed to be paid have often been requested in a letter from point of entry...usually New York... sometimes a month or more later.
Ellen
USA Sun 01/09/2005
Dolomites
We want to do a day trip to the Dolomites from Bolzano (no more than an hour and a half by bus one way). Any suggestions? Looking for fairly spectacular scenery.
susan <email>
melbourne, vic aust Sun 01/09/2005
Venice Blue Card
Is the 3 day Venice Blue Card valid for 72 hours from purchase /validation?Or does a day end at midnight?
Ian Grant <email>
Melbourne, Vic Aust Sun 01/09/2005
Bed Sheets?
We recently traveled to France and noticed that neither the boat we traveled the Seine nor the nice hotel we stayed at in Paris used a top sheet on the bed, just a comforter, which was often too warm. Is this a usual practice in Europe? We will be in Milan and Florence this spring and want to know if we need to include a sheet in the luggage.
J. Griffith <email>
St. Louis, MO USA Sun 01/09/2005
Mailing items back to the U.S.
We are planning on spending 3 weeks in Great Britain next September. We are packing light and may be mailing things home to ourselves and some gifts to friends and family. Anyone had experience doing this? Looking for advice - thanks!
Kelly
Seattle, Wa USA Sun 01/09/2005
Erquel Castle
Is their public transportation from Engelberg to St. Imer? I want to visit the Erguel Castle in St.Imer If you have any information on the Erguel Castle please share.
Alton Wilson <email>
Columbia, SC USA Sun 01/09/2005
train connections
I am traveling to rome in May. I always take the train to termini: however, this time I am going on to Camucia. Is there a way I can buy a ticket at the airport for my trip from rome termini to camucia or do I have to buy it at termini. I land at 12:30 and have a 2 1/2 hour turnaround time until my train for camucia. I would appreciate the help. rhoda
RHODA <email>
Philadelphia, Pa USA Sun 01/09/2005
dropping luggage at Florence train station
I had the same question about luggage or baggage check-in at the train station in Florence, Italy. We would like to do Florence as our last day after dropping our rental car - see the city, then hop a train. Can baggage be checked-in at the train in the morning until we come back for our train. (Yes, to previous post - we're taking the train :-) to Rome - thx for that advice)
Kathy Zerby <email>
New Brighton, MN USA Sun 01/09/2005
B& B's in Croatia, Hungry and Solvakia
We are traveling to eastern europe this summer, July 05 and lloking for B&B's in Croatia, Hungry and Solvakia. Any direction is grealty appreciated
Mark Tupper <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sun 01/09/2005
Hotel Cavallino D'Oro re: Annette
Annette,While its been five years since we stayed at Hotel Cavallino D'Oro (two nights) the half board option ("required" in July & Aug.)was a good choice. Good food, VERY friendly staff, and beautiful dining rooms. The village is a small one so dining choices are limited but Hotel Cavallino D'Oro should leave you disappointed.
CraigSC <email>
Wynnewood, PA USA Sun 01/09/2005
Ann: Iberia is the National Carrier. Their website is...http://www.iberia.com/...Enter US and English in the boxes.
USA Sun 01/09/2005
Luggage checks in France
We will be travelling in France mid-May to early June. Are their baggage check-ins or lockers available in the following train stations -- Paris, Dinan, St. Malo, Rennes, Nantes, Saumur, Limoges?Doe anyone know of a direct bus or train route/schedule from Dinan to Mont St Michel?Thank you for any information!!!
Tess <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Sat 01/08/2005
Senior Air Traveler
Charles...Thank you for the advice. I feel better already, and looking forward to my trip this summer.Lynda
Lynda
New Orleans, USA Sat 01/08/2005
Money Exchange Rate
JUDY......Now is the best time to go to Europe because the dollar is losing value every day and will probably continue to lose value. The longer you wait the more your Euros will cost.
A. M. C.
Sacramento, CA USA Sat 01/08/2005
SENIOR AIR TRAVEL
Lynda......I always close my eyes and think of something pleasant like a rippling brook or a cool summer meadow with colorful flowers. Occupy your mind with anything so you can ignore the cirsumstances. Remember that the pilot is as much concerned about his life as he is with yours. He will do all he can to prevent an accident. Takeoff lasts only 15 seconds anyway.
Charles S
NC USA Sat 01/08/2005
FRENCH RENTAL CAR IN ITALY
Roger~~~~I drove a rental car with French tags all through Italy and did not consider it a hazard.~~~~ I did learn after returning home that the Basks were shooting at cars with French tags while we were in Northern Spain.~~~~~ Take the same precautions for your car that you would at home.~~~~ Don’t leave anything in view and be cautious of what you leave in the trunk.~~~~ I always buy a local newspaper and scatter in on the seats so my car looks like a local car.
WILLIAMS
TULSA, OK USA Sat 01/08/2005
MARCH WEATHER
Sara~~~~go to www.florence.world-guides.com/weather and you will find the average high and low temps for each month of the year. Change the name of the city in the address to get weather for the other towns you will visit.
AMUNDSEN
CHICAGO, USA Sat 01/08/2005
gluten free in France
Is it a problem to get gluten free food and eat out in France? We will rent an apartment but I would like to eat out a little. Suzanne
Suzanne Rizer <email>
Columbus, OH USA Sat 01/08/2005
Paris Tour Guide
We are a family of 4 traveling to Europe this summer with a stop in Paris. We've visited before but would love a private, local guide for a day to give a personal tour. Any suggestions?
David <email>
plano, tx USA Sat 01/08/2005
Great Britian
We (dad, mom, and traveled teens 15 & 18) plan to travel to Great Britian for Christmas next year. A few days before and after of Dec. 25. We have never been to GB and are looking for a possible one stop relaxing week with pubs, shops, hikes, etc. I would appreciate any suggestions.
Laura <email>
Chatham, IL USA Sat 01/08/2005
Foreign Eqivalents of Goodwill Thrift Stores
Hi,I'm planning a solo two-year trip to some 35 countries with a 20 pound backpack. In some of the countries listed below, I'll become a temporary resident and will need to expand my wardrobe while in one place. I thought a good way to do this and to blend in would be to visit the foreign equivalent of Goodwill, buy a few things, then donate them back when I move to the next country.Specifically, I am interested in the following countries: Peru, Tobago and Trinidad, Puerto Rico, Ecuador, France, Russia, Turkey, Greece, Italy, Libya, Egypt, So. Africa, Kenya, India, Jordan, Myanmar, China, Australia, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Western Samoa, and Canada.Thanks for all your help.
Janae Londo <email>
Portland, Or USA Sat 01/08/2005
Stag in Denmark
In mid August we are going to Europe for a friend's (who is 26) wedding. He would like to have his stag in Copenhagen. There will be anywhere from 3-7 people going to it. Does anyone have any suggestions for what to do for a stag with one night in Copenhagen (or somewhere else nearby)? We have never been before.
Joel <email>
Canada Sat 01/08/2005
Madrid & Granada
Ann,Late April should be a wonderful time of the year to visit Spain (the summer can be frightfully hot, although we had a great time in August 2002 - 2 1/2 weeks exploring NE Spainish coast, Segovia, Salamanca, Toldeo, Cordoba, Sevilla, Arco, Granada, & Madrid). While our "whirlwind" driving holiday is not for everyone, my family enjoys the self-directed, Rick Steve's guided, driving holiday. Rick's books have been 99% on target for us with respect to cities, towns, villages, sights, and eating. About 50% of the time we have found other accomodations. And, since ETBD books focus on small hotels you should do well with Rick. When attempting my own reservations in Spain (our 5th trip to the EU) I was frustrated when attempting to find "Quads". I read about Madrid and Beyond on the Travel's Helpline (perhaps under an old Travel Agent's section - I don't remember); and, gave Nigel Hack a try. We gave him an itinerary & budget and he came back with a few suggestions on the itinerary (which were terrific) and 9 hotels at $45 per person per night; all were at least ***. Quick question - have you been to Europe before?If so, do you prefer the big cites (i.e., Paris, Brussels, Rome) or the smaller cities, towns or villages?We prefer the latter - but Madrid was a necessity since we arrived & departed from Madrid.Although the musuems in Madrid are extradordinary and the Palace worth a visit, the remainder of Madrid is so-so.Toledo is close by for a day trip and WELL worth it (or an over night).Cutting to the chase - we found Segovia, Salamanca, Avila, and Toledo all very special. And, Madrid nice but not a must see.Now - Granada. The Alhambra is simply, spectacular; other sights in the city of Granada were OK. Two of Rick's Eating recommendations were FANTASTIC. El Agua Casa de Vinos was one of our favorite dinners EVER !!! and the Mirador de Morayma was one of the most beautifull garden settings. 5 nights in Granada may be a bit long; I would give some thought to either day trips from Granada or trying to spend a couple of nights in Andalucia. Again (here's the disclaimer coming) we like to sample the sights & towns like Tapas - taste a few and move along. Other folks may enjoy settling in ... CraigSC
CraigSC <email>
Wynnewood, PA USA Sat 01/08/2005
RE: Half Board
Annette... It would have helped if you had given more information (like a URL), but I did find their website. Looks like half board is €10 pP per day. I think you will be hard pressed to find a restaurant for dinner at €10, so it is probably a good deal. Some places I have stayed in Germany gave a selection from the menu; others had a fixed menu for "halb pension". More importantly, every place I have been gave you the option of taking it that day or not, as long as you told them in advance. Find out if they do that. It is always nice to eat at some other restaurants too.
Larry <email>
CO USA Sat 01/08/2005
Iberia Airlines
Has anyone had any experience with Iberia Airlines (out of Spain). I keep checking for cheap flights, and this airline keeps popping up for around $745 or $795 (anyway, in the $700s), as compared with others in the $1000s (going to be travelling to Germany in June--the only time I can get away). I know German, not Spanish. Do the employees speak English? How's the service? Any info. would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Ann
IN USA Sat 01/08/2005
Money Exchange
ATM's are the way to go. We just got back from Germany - only used our debit card. Best exchange rate (direct from your own bank). Machines are everywhere.
Sandra <email>
Vancouver, BC Canada Sat 01/08/2005
DVD Player in Holland
Polly - there is an article all about DVD regions at http://hometheater.about.com/od/dvdbasics/. Go to the Section titled "Region Codes: DVD's Dirty Secret". It is certainly possible to buy multi-region DVD players in Europe, but they are more expensive than the standard players.
Bob <email>
Bristol, UK Sat 01/08/2005
Cash in Europe
Polly, reconsider the cash and get a ATM card from your bank. Cash gets a notoriously bad exchage rate, especially at airports. There have been stories on this board that US cash is also hard to exchange. The dollar is so weak that you might save several percent by getting the better exchange rate that ATM cards offer. Credit Cards on the other hand normally add 3+ percent to each purchase. So if you want to be on a cash only basis in Europe, start with getting a cash advance with ATM or debit card.
Larry
KY USA Sat 01/08/2005
Mailing Souvenirs from A'dam
Hello, me again. We're packing light for Amsterdam, "one on the back, one in the pack." We want to send larger souvenirs home so we don't have to carry them. Is it easy to buy packing materials? Are they available in stationery stores, post offices? Do you take the packed boxes to a post office, or do they have some kind of UPS/Fed Ex stores in A'dam? Grateful for help.
Polly <email>
Tampa, FL USA Sat 01/08/2005
Money Exchange at Airports
We have always used cash in Europe, never credit cards. Now we are going back for a two week trip, and plan to take only US dollars We will be traveling from Tampa to Amsterdam, via Gatwick. Any thoughts on which airport is best for changing money? Exchange rate not an issue, our issue is safety. One of us will be the "watch-your-back person, the other will make the exchange, and we will count the money at least twice. But if there are other tips we should be aware of, please share your commets. We have long experience with Rick's money belts, and wouldn't consider taking it off for a moment. Thanks.
Polly <email>
Tampa, FL USA Sat 01/08/2005
Russia
Can you recommend a tour company for a tour in Russia-specifically Moscow and St. Petersburg?
Liz <email>
Wallhalben, Germany Sat 01/08/2005
James, October is a wonderful time to go to Italy. There are crowds but not anything like in the summer. I would go in October. The weather is still mild and I didn't encounter any rain.
USA Fri 01/07/2005
Half Board - A Good Deal?
I am planning on staying at the Hotel Cavallino D'Oro in Castelrotto (Kastelruth) in April. I see that they have a "half board" option. Does anyone have advice about whether doing the half-board option is a good idea?
Annette U <email>
Seattle, WA USA Fri 01/07/2005
Thrift stores in Europe
I'm planning on travelling to Germany, Austria, and Switzerland this June, using only a carry-on bag. When I land, I plan on buying some sort of "swiss army knife" for cutting bread and meat, and any small repairs. When my trip is over, instead of throwing it away or checking my bag (or if I can't find someone to give the knife to), I'd like to donate it to some thrift shop or "Red-Cross" like organization (also my paperback books, maybe--If I can't find anyone to give them to.). Does anyone know any names of "Thrift stores" in these three countries?
Ann
IN USA Fri 01/07/2005
Bringing back wine from Europe
I have had to investigate this issue in the past, and think I can address the issue. First some basics for everyone: 1. I know of no European country that would limit how much wine you take with you when you leave or send back (Its dollars for them)
2. The Federal Government (Customs) does not limit the amount of wine/Liquor/Beer that you bring or send back for personal use from Europe (Different if coming back from Canada or Carribean). They certainly may question someone showing up with multiple cases, and you need to declare all that you bring back and you are subject to paying duty on anything over 1 liter, but I have never had to actually pay duty in the past. (It seems they do not bother to send a "bill" for small amounts) See http://www.customs.ustreas.gov/xp/cgov/travel/vacation/kbyg/ for information.
3. Your State will determine your ability to bring or send wine back. For Colorado for example, you may bring back 4 litres "Tax free" and pay excise tax on anything above that (About $0.08 per bottle of wine). They really have no maximum limit (Just want their tax). I must also mention that this will only be an issue if your flight from Europe flies directly to Colorado and you are a Colorado resident. See http://www.revenue.state.co.us/liquor_dir/wrap.asp?incl=liqstock for info. US Customs is obligated to enforce laws of the the state they are in for residents of that state, other...doesn't usually apply.
Almost any State has a website giving regulation, and it varies from not being able to send or bring back anything,to virtually no limits. Also verify with your airline that they have no rules regarding carry on of liquor, checking bags with wine (though risking breakage) is usually always fine.
Paul <email>
IA USA Fri 01/07/2005
Pin Codes and Moving to Europe
I've never heard of letters in a pin code either, but it's credit cards that you increasingly need pin numbers for in Europe because many countries, including this year the UK, are going to chip & pin cards. I have yet to figure out whether cards without chips will work, even if you have a PIN. But I presume touristy places will always have options for non-Europeans who don't have chips in their cards.
As to moving to UK (can't help with Germany), the best way to get information is to check the UK Home Office site, which contains all the rules, regulations and schemes for legal migration to the UK. You might also look on the website for the US Embassy in London to see if they have any links to expat groups. Or do a google search.
Your best bet is to find a job before moving and then apply for a work permit and leave to remain (it's a two part process now and upwards of $500 an application). It's a bit risky coming here first because some applications must be made back in the US.
Also be aware that the cost of living is higher here, and with the weak dollar, it's not cheap to live in Europe. And you won't be eligible for any goverment benefits, and even with a work permit, only for health care (at least in the UK). And as a foreign citizen, you cannot work in a civil service job - which may also still be a problem if you are a dual citizen (I'm trying to figure that one out).
There are a wide range of jobs available - you don't have to be a genius to qualify for a work permit, but there's no guarantee that the government will approve your application even if you are offered a job. It definately helps to have skills for which they are looking, and that depends on the country.
Kate
Scotland, UK Fri 01/07/2005
wine from Europe
We always bring at least six bottles back from Paris. the wine store will package them up for & create a "handle". This will become a carry on. You may be able to fit two more bottles into a backpack but beyond this you may have too much weight. Never any problem at airports or with Delta.
Nancy
Ga USA Fri 01/07/2005
baggage storage @Auschwtiz
Does anyone know if there's a luggage storage facility at the Auschwitz Train Station? Thinking of doing a early am trip then continuing to Warsaw late afternoon.
<email>
oakland, ca USA Fri 01/07/2005
Italy fall travel questions
My wife and I are considering traveling to Rome and Florence this fall. Of course, we will use our Rick Steves' books! Our schedule allows us to go either October 17-22 or November 7-12. Here's our 2 questions: How is the weather during these two time periods? Rainy? Is it heavy rain or just sprinkles? Our second question concerns the number of tourist during these two periods of time. Is October really busy? We noticed that one of Rick's recommended convents is usually booked October. Is this caused by crowded conditions? Any info would be deeply appreciated.
James Cox <email>
Marion, AR USA Fri 01/07/2005
Tube Service at Heathrow T4
Flying into London Heathrow in the next 2 years? The Tube (subway) at Terminal Four (4) only, will be closed for the next 20 months. The new Terminal 5 is under construction and the Tube will be extended to this new terminal. But this extension work means closing down the service to T4.This will not impact the Tube service from the T1, T2, or T3.London Underground has laid on alternative transport. You can read more at http://www.bbc.co.uk/london/travel/features/travel_advice/piccadilly_heathrow_engineering2005.shtml
Michael <email>
Edmonton, AB Canada Fri 01/07/2005
Hotel in Barcelona, Spain
Also, could anyone recommend a hotel in Barcelona, Spain? The cruise ends there and would like to spend two days sightseeing. Any tourist safety tips?
Jay <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Fri 01/07/2005
Hotel Noemi in Venice Italy
I have booked a room at the Hotel Noemi in San Marco, Venice, Italy, for 1 night prior to going on a cruise. Any comments from someone who has stayed in this hotel before? Do you recommend this hotel for 2 women travelers? Travel is in June 2005 and other rates I've checked are over eur 180. This hotel is eur 140.
Jessica <email>
Hawthorne, CA USA Fri 01/07/2005
adapter plug for Rome
Judy, Ask at your Rome hotel and they should be able to direct you to a shop to buy an adapter plug.
USA Thu 01/06/2005
French rental car in Italy -- a problem?
We want to start a trip with a rental car in France, then go to Cinque Terre, Florence, Siena, etc in Italy -- and drop the car off at the airport near Rome (before going to Rome). Will our French rental car be a target for thieves in Italy???Any comments on this will be appreciated.
Roger <email>
Madison, CT USA Thu 01/06/2005
Senior Air Traveler
I will be taking my first trip to Europe this summer by air. I have hypertension but it is controlled by medication. Can anyone tell me what to expect at liftoff because I heard it compared to going up in a rollercoaster. Lynda
Lynda <email>
New Orleans, La USA Thu 01/06/2005
Bringing back wine from Europe-How much is allowed?
How much wine can one person bring back from Europe without a penalty? Is it just 1-2 bottles? I pretty sure one person cannot bring back a case.We live in Colorado - anyone know? Thanks.
CO USA Thu 01/06/2005
money exchange rate
is now a good or bad time to travel to europe regarding the curency exchange rate
judy <email>
USA Thu 01/06/2005
Re: Eiffel Quiz Tickets
Now they have ten tickets to offer each day! (only 5 previously)[I've tried it three times, and got them all correct, but didn't get the ticket. I thought it's becuz I reside in Thailand, may be too far from the Europe and the US to ship the ticket to : ) ]
Jane
USA Thu 01/06/2005
GIMMELWALD safety question:
Can you confirm that the hikes and lodging recommended in your Best of Europe 2005 guidebook are safe and reliable for a young (very attractive) female solo traveler?
Hike: I just hope that in case of accident, other hikers will be able to see and reach me and help me out. The trails are clear and safe, right? I consider myself healthy and athletic, but still worry about external factors.
Lodging: Are farmers and people in Gimmelwald likely to treat women disrespectfully? (catcalls, harassment, rapes, etc.) Pls note that I always wear conservative, modest outfit when traveling alone.
Thank you. Hope 2005 will be a great year for you.
Jane <email>
Bangkok, Thailand Thu 01/06/2005
Getting to Beynac
I am wondering if anyone has been to Beynac without renting a car. If so how did you get there? I am trying to get from Bordeaux to the Residence Versailles that is in Ricks book, but I can't rent a car. Or, Does anyone know if there are buses that run from Sarlat to Beynac?
Mary Collins <email>
bellingham, WA USA Thu 01/06/2005
Plug adapter
Check hotels that cater to Americans. They often sell them at the desk. That's where I got my first one. I also found what worked as an adapter in a lighting fixture store in Germany. It was really a plug extender for deeply recessed receptacles, but the female end fits both European pins and American flat blades.
Larry
CO USA Thu 01/06/2005
Lake District UK
Where is the best place to stay in the Lake District? We are considering Keswick. Has anyone stayed at the farm rec by RS? We will be there in late May & hope to hike and also visit the Beatrix Potter farms. We will stay 3 nights & then drive to Scotland, Any advice is appreciated!
Susan <email>
Atl, USA Thu 01/06/2005
Plug adapter in Rome
HELP!!! I did not get a plug adapter before coming to Rome. I need to find a store that sells this item. Can anyone tell me where I can find a store that sells plug adpaters??? I urgently need this to recharge my camcorder battery so I can film the wonders in Rome. PLEASE HELP!
Judy <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Thu 01/06/2005
Driving in Rome
Kathy... Every car rental website I can find for Italy lists Leonardo di Vinci airport (Fiumicino) as a drop off point. If you can drop your car off there, you would not have to drive in Rome and it is just a short metro ride into town.
Larry
CO USA Thu 01/06/2005
To Kathy re:Driving in Rome
Kathy: If you are not “good with stress”, I would strongly advise against driving into Rome. In fact, even if you have nerves of steel, it’s not a great idea. Traffic in Rome is pretty crazy. In some areas, I would describe it as being almost like a liquid (no lanes, cars and vespas 3,4 or 5 abreast, moving in to fill in whatever space there is . . .). Parking is also a MAJOR issue, so having a car can be a burden. All in all, you are much better off taking a train in, and then using some combination of the Metro, buses, taxis and your feet to get around. I would recommend taking a taxi at least once while you are in Rome. For 4 people, it’s pretty economical, and quite the thrill ride.
Angela
Lexington, KY USA Thu 01/06/2005
March Weather
We will be in Florence, Rome and London in March 2005. Trying to pack as light as possible and am wondering what kind of weather we should pack for. Any suggestions will very helpful!! Thanks
Sara <email>
KC, MO USA Thu 01/06/2005
Moving to Europe
Hello, my wife and me have a wonderful dream about living in Europe. However, our downfall is that we can't obtain a citizenship through any "grandfather" clause of any country or we don't have PhD or Masters to get a "Highly Skilled Migrants Worker" Visa. I have looked somewhat into a civilian type of job through the US army, and some into Job postings from other countries. Ideally we would like to move over and obtain dual citizenship from either the UK or Germany and raise our future kids there. The only situation I can see is for us to get into Europe is through a civilian job in the military (though that does not look like we can obtain permanent residency in our host country) or hope and pray that we can obtain a job through the internet from a country in Europe and have the company apply for the work visa for us which still looks like “highly skilled migrant worker” type of jobs
Does anyone know of “for sure way” of being able to move to Europe and obtain residency without having to be a highly skilled migrant worker? We would like a concrete way of knowing before going instead of packing up and flying over then hope we can find a job just for a long-term visa. For instance, is there a way to enter into France as a photographer (which is a hobby of mine) to get a long-term visa and stay as a freelancer without having to prove I have a ton of money in the bank (which I don’t) and apply for a job, in say, a restaurant? We are looking to save at least a total of $14,000.00 to take over with us for living expenses (not including our plane tickets over) until we can start working. Thank you for any advice.jwoodall@georgiaimports.com
Jeff W. <email>
Dalton, Ga. USA Thu 01/06/2005
Berlin to Prague by train
I am going to Germany with my two teenage sons in June. We have a couple of extra days in Berlin at the end of the trip, and are thinking about taking the train to Prague one morning, and returning the next evening by train. I would welcome any advice about the Berlin to Prague train, as well as what to see in Prague if you have have limited time there. Thanks.
USA Thu 01/06/2005
Italy with Kids
We will be travelling to Italy in June. As always, we will stay in Rick-recommended places. Which of his recommends are best for families of 4 with two kids (11 and 14 y.o.) in Venice, Florence, Rome, Sorrento?
BGL <email>
Salt Lake City, ut USA Thu 01/06/2005
driving in Italy
Kathy~~~I cannot advise on driving in Rome & probably would not attempt it. But driving through Tuscany was easy but parking challenging at times. We drove out of Florence & had to return the car there as well. We used Autoeuro and it was located very near the Arno which makes for an easier dropoff. Good luck!
sbp
Atl, USA Thu 01/06/2005
Good Navigator makes for Better Driver
Kathy-one other thing to consider about driving in Rome. Our "family of 4" consists of 2 adults and 2 children. My husband definitely has the nerves of steel to drive anywhere but I am the best with maps and directions. We make a good team because he can concentrate on driving (even in Rome) and I am on the lookout for streets, exits, etc. If, on the other hand, I were to do the driving myself with a less than experienced navigator the stress level would be definitely be higher. It is difficult to drive and look for signs in a foreign language. I answered you before that we also drove our rental car into Rome and had no problems but I should have mentioned the "team effort" that made it work.
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 01/06/2005
Re: Kathy & driving in Italy
Kathy ~ I have no experience in Italy, but my daughter and I DID rent a car in France this past summer. We rented a SIXT to drive from Paris to Chartres down to Chambord and back to Paris. The car was at a bargain rate ... especially for U.S. standards! Like you, I didn't want to drive in a major metropolitan European city (even though the French drive on the same side of the car and street as us), so we rented our car from Orly airport - which is pretty much the farthest spot outside of Paris with a rental office for our car. While I think my daughter would have liked me to have driven in to the city to drop her off at the hotel on the return trip so that we wouldn't have to schlep our suitcase and souvenir bags on the Metro, we did it and were none the worse for the inconvenience. If you can rent in one city and return in another with no additional charge, I'd say "go for it"!! Find a rental office outside of town and either take their public transportation or a taxi in to the city.Have a great trip! And don't worry about getting too lost..... allow for plenty of time and just keep telling yourself, "It's an adventure"!!
jdcwc
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 01/06/2005
Italian Language Tutor
Hello! I also live in Seattle! I studied abroad in Italy for a month this summer. I know one student who speaks Italian very well who might be able to help you out. I know the basics (took a quarter of Italian with the UW) and have an Italian workbook if you'd like some basic help. E-mail me if you have any questions or would like to get together. calaroni@earthlink.net
Callie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 01/05/2005
Driving into Rome
Hi. I already asked a question about driving to Rome to drop our rental car, or dropping it in Florence and training it in. I got a couple responses, but not a lot. Anyone else want to add in? We are a family of four whose train fare will exceed the cost of having the car to drive down (it's not extra), even after tolls and gas. But, I'm not good with stress. Some people say no way for driving into Rome, others say it's just fine. Anyone want to add in?
Kathy Zerby <email>
New Brighton, MN USA Wed 01/05/2005
London, Paris, or Venice on a Sunday?
My wife and I are planning to travel to Europe for a delayed honeymoon in July. We can spend our Sunday in either, Venice, Paris, or London. I am having a hard time finding information as to what is open/closed in these cities on a Sunday. I have spent a morning/afternoon in Paris at the end of a 5 day stay, and from memory, all of the shops seemed to be closed (I was nowhere near the Champs Elysees). If anybody has any information or knows where I can go, it would be appreciated.
Tom <email>
Meridian, ID USA Wed 01/05/2005
Eiffel Quiz Tickets
Fortunately I won in December for my trip in May. At that time, I did note that the rules said the contest would end on 12/31/04 and I wondered if they would renew it. It would seem that they have not, but you might check back each month to see if it starts back up. I did received my tickets already.
Linda
GA USA Wed 01/05/2005
Eiffel Tour Quiz
So I have been playing the quiz to win free tickets to the top of the eiffel tour for my upcoming trip in May and now it seems that they are not giving away tickets anymore. Does anyone know anything about this?
Bethane
Baltimore, MD USA Wed 01/05/2005
Italian Language Tutor
My Family and I are planning a trip to Italy in July and live in the Seattle area and we are looking for a language tutor to learn enough Italian to help get us around.Does anyone know of someone in the area?????
Jon Cooper <email>
Sammamish, wa USA Wed 01/05/2005
MUSEE L'ORANGERIE
My sincere apologies to all including Shirty Larry. The Musee L'Orangerie is indeed CLOSED until the beginning of 2006.
Graham <email>
USA Wed 01/05/2005
Musee L'Orangerie
Graham, et al... www.paris.fr/en is the official website, in English, of the city of Paris. Click on "Museums", then find "Musee l'Orangerie" on the list and click on it. The next page says that the museum is closed for renovation. I think I trust the offical website of Paris over paris.org, which appears to be maintained by someone at the Univ of Calif at San Diego. Anyone can put something on a website to display the current date; that does not mean the website is current.
Larry <email>
CO USA Wed 01/05/2005
Kelly re: Snowdonia
Kelly, have you decided on a specific town yet within the Snowdonia area? I can recommend the Ivy House in Dolgellau. Dolgellau is a lovely little town at the foot of Cader Idris in the Snowdonia region. The Ivy House is in the center of the town within close walking distance of shops, pubs, restaurants, etc. Some rooms have private baths and some don't. We stayed there a couple years ago while attending a wedding. It is very clean and affordable, with a good breakfast.
Chris
MA USA Wed 01/05/2005
accomodations
For Kelly seeking accomodations in Snowdonia & others planning to travel in Britain & Scotland, etc. Here is a great website for hotels & B&B's: www.smoothhound.co.uk---they include photos, ratings, email, etc.
Nancy
Ga USA Wed 01/05/2005
Musee L'Orangerie, Paris
Re:Musee L'Orangerie, Paris.If you access the website and click on "Current Expositions" you will see that the current visiting exhibition is indeed Monet's Lili Pads. A little lower on the page is today's date.
Graham. <email>
USA Wed 01/05/2005
Musee de l'Orangerie
The site Graham refers to hasn't been updated in a long time. For example, it show the entrance prices to l'Orangerie in francs, not euros. Unless someone who has been to Paris recently can confirm that the museum indeed has re-opened, I'd be inclined to think the statement from Rick's guidebook is the one to go by.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 01/05/2005
Temperature in Venice
Ben, Venice in February is very cold, maybe because it is near/on the water. I am very warm natured but I took silk long underwear and it felt fine!! I didn't need them in Rome.
USA Tue 01/04/2005
ROME -Parmelee
I am responding to where in Rome to stay. If you are up for a little bit of a walk (which in Rome is wonderful), most anyplace you mentioned is excellent. I stayed a week in The Beehive (a hostel, it has private rooms as well) near Termini station. It was excellent and easy to find, but a little far from the sites (but next to all of the buses to get there). I stayed in the Campo di Fiori for a month, it was excellent. It is within walking distance from all the sites, but far enough away to get away from a lot of the tourists. Tons of restaurants and gelaterias nearby. The Campo is great...it is a huge market in the morning, and turns into a huge social scene all night long. I heard the bands play the same songs over and over from my apartment window until 3am. I love Rome, if you have any questions feel free to e-mail: calaroni@earthlink.net.Go to Villa D'Este if you can! One of my favorite places.
Callie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 01/04/2005
Musée de l'Orangerie
For GRAHAM: Thank you so much! I will be visiting Paris in June and can now add this to my list of "not to be missed". Good to hear from you again...I've missed your comments on the Wall.
Darcy <email>
Lewiston, ID USA Tue 01/04/2005
Turkey (and India)
Due to the events in Iraq, would it be safe for 2 women to travel to western Turkey? I want to go for it, but want to assure myself that I will be safe. Has anyone been to Turkey recently? Also, if anyone has been to both Turkey and northern India, which was your favorite? We are still deciding between them. Any feedback would be wonderful!
Callie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 01/04/2005
Madrid and Granada Hotels
My husband and I will be traveling to Madrid (5 nights) and then to Granada(5 nights)to see our daughter who will be studying there this year. Any well-located, quiet hotels to suggest? Any tips about traveling in Spain? Thank you!
Louise <email>
NM USA Tue 01/04/2005
accomodations near Malaga airport
Can anyone advise us, please. We will be in Spain this Easter, flying into Madrid but departing from Malaga. We don't really want to stay in Malaga and were wondering if Ronda is within easy access to the airport (west of Malaga). Our flight is early (7:30 a.m) and don't know if we could get a taxi from Ronda to the airport. Any suggestions??? Is there accomodation right by the airport? I'd appreciate any suggestions.
natalie <email>
vancouver, B.C. Canada Tue 01/04/2005
Day Trips from Paris
I have taken day trips from Paris to Rouen, Caen, Chartres, Versailles. Highly organized and super-energetic people have taken day trips to Caen with organized tours of the D-Day beaches, then back to Paris. Lyon or Avignon but not Nice could be day-trips from Paris. I considered taking a day-trip to Lilles last time I was in Paris. On a first trip to Europe I would definitely include Paris, just because I love the place.
Swan
USA Tue 01/04/2005
SUMMER TRIP TO SCANDINAVIA
Betty~~~~Depends on where your cruise ends. I would visit Amsterdam first~~~~ Finding a cheap air fare is hard but no impossible~~~~~ I would try bestfares.com and see what they can do for you~~~~~ Phone the office and don’t try to do it on the internet~~~~~ I always find more information by talking to the agents in their office.
WILBERSTEIN
TULSA, USA Tue 01/04/2005
TemperatureBen....try this page for monthly weather for Venice:www.venice.world-guides.com/weather.html.For Rome temps just change Venice to Rome in the address. Convert Centigrade to Fahrenheit.Dangelo Chicago
D'Angelo
USA Tue 01/04/2005
Temperature
We'll be in Venice from Feb 24 to Feb 27 and in Rome from February 28 till March 3. What is the average temperature during these period so that we will know which coats/jackets to pack. We are from warm and sunny California. Thanks!
Ben Baldoza <email>
Long Beach, CA USA Tue 01/04/2005
Summer trip to Scandanavia
We will take a 10 day cruise starting from Copenhagen on 07/14. I have 2 questions: 1) Should we visit Amsterdam before our cruise? We had taken a land tour in Scandanavia 5 years ago, but never visited Amsterdam/Bruges/Brussels. 2) How to find a cheap airfare from SFO to Amsterdam/Copenhagen in July,2005? Is it too early to find cheap summer fares in January? When do I have to book my airline tickets?
betty ng <email>
san francisco, ca USA Tue 01/04/2005
Musee L'Orangerie, Paris
FOR DARCY:The Musee L'Orangerie is open. See...http://www.paris.org/Musees/Orange/
Graham <email>
WALES Tue 01/04/2005
L'Orangerie
According to Rick's Paris 2005, L'Orangerie is scheduled to re-open in late 2005 or 2006. It has been scheduled to re-open for several years now so here's hoping this is the year. I always try to go to the Musée Marmottan which has many of Monet's paintings and Giverny but I agree it would be wonderful to have L'Orangerie open too.
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Tue 01/04/2005
Expatriate!
Serious desire to expatriate from "the states" to Western Europe. Preferably Italy, Austria or Germany. Any advice?
Sumer <email>
oxford, ms USA Tue 01/04/2005
Arles to L'Isle Sur la Sorgue
Alnoor -- I think the train goes from Avignon (but not Arles) to L'Isle Sur La Sorgue. It's just a short ride from Arles to Avignon, and from Avignon, sometimes the train schedule just shows "L'Isle" for Sur la Sorgue. Make sure you know how to get to where you're staying from the train station in L'Isle, as there may not be anyone there if you arrive in the evening.
Kristin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Tue 01/04/2005
Musee de L'Orangerie-Paris
Does anyone know if the Musee de L'Orangerie in Paris has reopened? If so, what are the hours and fees?
Colony <email>
Bow, NH USA Tue 01/04/2005
DVD Player in Holland
I'm going to rent a DVD player when I am in Amsterdam later this month. Does anyone know if I'll be able to play DVDs I take with me from the US on a Dutch DVD player? Some of my US DVDs say things like, "Can be played on Region 1 players" and I have no idea where Region 1 is! Thanks in advance for advice.
Polly <email>
Tampa, FL USA Tue 01/04/2005
Rome day trip to Florence and Pisa
Mark....if you look at a map you will see that you can’t make Florence and Pisa as a day trip from Rome. The distance is too great. You might make Pisa, but not Florence. And count on it being a LONG day.
hammerstein
chicago, USA Tue 01/04/2005
BRUSSELS TO MUNSTER BY TRAIN
Scott....before you go through all that hassle with trains, search applefares.com and europebyair.com for discount air fares. If you find one you can save money over the train and save a lot of time. I have flown europebyair and find them very dependable and cheap..only $99 one way for long flights.
HAVERLYE
NYC, USA Tue 01/04/2005
HELP
YC~~~~Amsterdam 3 days...OK. S Germany 4 days...OK.Switzerland 6 days...OK. France you can plan as much time as you have. Stay in Paris and make day trips to Versailles and Fountainbleu. Plus Nice IF you can afford the train fare, but not Normandy or southwest or southeast. North Italy ...10 days ...OK. Forget about Corsica...you won’t have time.
McDowell
Tulsa, USA Tue 01/04/2005
hotel in Rome
M>Parmalee~~~The Oceania rec by RS is hard to beat. Very nice rooms & staff. We walked all over Rome except the Borghese & out to Vatican. The only downside is you will not have as great a choice of restaurants but we did not see that has a problem--we enjoyed lunch in Via Condotti or Navonna area & had dinner near hotel and ate well. Enjoy!
Jamie
Fl USA Tue 01/04/2005
In search of B&B in Snowdonia, Wales
I am looking for any information on a nice clean and friendly B&B in Snowdonia, Wales. Preferably one within walking distance to a town or village (pub) and is resonably priced. The kind of B&B that Rick would recommend :-)Thanks!!
Kelly Price <email>
Wrexham, UK Tue 01/04/2005
If you are going via Eurail pass...I'd play it by ear. Plan on getting to a country, then asking other travelers that you meet what they have seen and recommend. I went as a college student with my boyfriend...years ago. We had no plan - other than to see what we could see. We had 5 weeks and got the best of Europe. We toured through Germany (southern part -Bavaria) Switzerland, Austria, France, England and Spain. We skipped Italy that trip, so we've been going there now! It's true that you will most likely go back, so have fun, and don't stress about trying to see it all this time! Do read Rick's books, they help you to plan, but expect to change your plans midstream - that's the fun part of being young and being in Europe!
USA Tue 01/04/2005
[Editor's Note: If you plan on using a Rail pass in Europe, you must purchase it in the U.S. before you leave. You cannot purchase Rail passes in Europe. For more information, visit our Rail Department]
best areas to stay in rome
I am looking for the best areas to stay in Rome--I have found hotels in travestere, via firenze, & Campo de' Fiori from RS guide books I want to have easy access to the sites, but at the same time feel like I am in Italy. Any suggestions?
M. Parmelee <email>
Round Rock, TX USA Tue 01/04/2005
Fashion in Europe
Jordyn-considering your summer time frame, there is a lot to be said for skirts besides the fashion issue. Even my teenage daughter takes more skirts than pants for a summer Europe trip. They are cooler, lighter, and will allow you more flexibility in your choice of activities, restaurants, etc. If you are doing a lot of outdoor activites (hiking, biking) you will want one pair of shorts, but a cute short skirt will get you by much better in the cities than super casual shorts - and some churches in Italy do not allow you to wear shorts at all. Also-check out the Best Walking Shoes section of Rick Steves and consider a sandal instead of a closed shoe. Again, as long as you are in cities, and not hiking on uneven ground, a leather pair of sandals will look better with your clothes (and for me, they feel better as well) - more stylish.
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Tue 01/04/2005
Jordyn on fashion
Pants are worn by most women in Europe; not everybody and not all the time. Sneakers are worn a lot by everybody. When you are walking a lot it is extremely important to wear whatever shoes you can be comfortable in. Bright white sneakers aren't commonly worn by anybody (they wouldn't stay white anyway). I suggest you take just a few of your regular, washable clothes and plan to do some shopping once you are there. I wear a black raincoat and black shoes. Sports-type shoes aare available in black, brown, etc. Don't worry about it too much.
USA Tue 01/04/2005
Y.C. in KC
Read at least one of Rick's books and then ask the questions again. You can do a lot in 4 weeks but not everything. Just figure that you will return. I've been to Europe about a dozen times and there are still lots of places I haven't visited. Something to look forward to.
USA Tue 01/04/2005
HELP !!!!!
Hello! I am planning my first trip to Europe in April 2005. I have about 4 weeks, give and take. I am having some trouble deciding where to go...several ideas...but keep changing my mind. I want to get your opinion on whether or not this is too much...Amsterdam (3 days), West Coast/South Germany (4 days), Switzerland - interlaken, bern oberland, zermatt, geneva (6 days), france (paris, normandy, southwest/southeast???? I need help with france...too much to see...any ideas? i want art, history, outdoors stuff, wineries, non-touristy places) (10 days), and italy (mostly north, cinque terre, and fly out of rome) (10 days)...oh and maybe a couple days in corsica between france and italy. Please email me!! THANKS!!!
YC <email>
KC, MO USA Mon 01/03/2005
European style
Hey everyone! I'm planning my first trip to Europe for this summer. I know I'll stick out as an American no matter what, but I'm curious as to what kind of clothes Italians/Spanish/French people wear. I've read that sneakers (Nike, etc.) are obviously American... so what kind of footwear looks European? I've also read that ladies wear skirts a lot more often than pants; what kind of skirts? I'd appreciate any little tidbit of info! Thanks so much!
Jordyn
Huntsville, AR USA Mon 01/03/2005
Train schedule Arles to Isle de sougue
Alnoor - Are you sure that there is train service to Isle de sougue (or sorgue). I looked at the French train system's web site (www.sncf.com) and could not find your destination (either spelling). There was a "SORGUES CHATEAUNEUF DU PAPE". Could that be it?
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Mon 01/03/2005
Train schedule Arles to Isle de sougue
Does anyone know the train schedule from Arles to Isle sur la sorgue? I tried the popular sites for schedules and non e are listed for the towns I am interested in
Alnoor Aziz <email>
Vancouver, bc cda Mon 01/03/2005
US Air tickets
Congress passed a law after 9/11 that offered some protection to consumers if their airline went bankrupt. They recently extended that law. I can'trecall exact details, but I think it allows you to fly standby on other US based carriers flying the same route, for a small fee, I think $25 or $50 per ticket. I think USAtoday.com Travel section recently ran a story on it.
Good luck.
Brandon
Brandon
WV USA Mon 01/03/2005
B & B in London
Looking for good B & B in London mid January? any suggestions
Greg and Rainy <email>
Port Angeles, WA USA Mon 01/03/2005
Getting the ü
For some reason the Wall software deleted my symbol for alt. You get the ü character by typing 0252 while you hold down the "alt" key.
USA Mon 01/03/2005
Brussels to Münster by train
Scott... Yes, there are trains from Brussels to Münster. You can find the available connections on bahn.de. For some reason it doesn't seem to like "Muenster". You have to put in "Münster". You get the ü by holding down the key while you type 0252 on the numeric keyboard. Do searches using both "standard search" and "without ICE" for the "Means of Transport". The "standard search" will bring up mostly Thalys trains; "without ICE" will show you slower, but less expensive alternatives. You might get a faster connection if you use "Koeln" for "Via".Thalys is a fast, premium train that requires a reservation and a passholder fee if you are using a railpass. I have heard horror stories of people waiting for hours in line in the summer to get a ticket for Thalys only to find that the passholder fares are limited and they must wait days to use their railpass. There are, however, ICs to Germany that do not require reservation or an extra fee. It might take a few hours longer for the trip, but at least you don't have to wait a day to get on the train.
Larry <email>
CO USA Mon 01/03/2005
Us Air Tickets
Is anyone else sweating about US Air? About a month ago I bought two round trip tix from Philadelphia to Venice for June 2005 because I wanted a certain flight time and it was the shortest flight. Now I am worried about my money flying away if US Air goes belly up. Does anyone know what would happen if they do? (I put it on my Discover card if that makes any difference.) I can't cancel because the tickets are nonrefundable. All of our accomodaitons are reserved, so we don't have much flexibility.
Sue <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Mon 01/03/2005
Rome Day Trip to Florance and Pisa
Is it possible to see Florance and Pisa as a day trip from Rome?
Mark Weiser <email>
Silver Spring, MD USA Mon 01/03/2005
Ah, one more thing..
I forgot something I also wanted to ask about. As of now, I'm not sure exactly how I'll get from Brussels to the Muenster area. Am I correct in thinking that I'll easily be able to do that trip by train and I can make those plans much later, like when I'm actually already in Brussels? Thanks!
Scott Setchfield <email>
MI USA Mon 01/03/2005
Flying into Brussels and out of Muenster
I'm planning a trip to visit some friends this summer and I'm not sure about when I should buy a ticket.I'm planning flying out of GRR (it has shown to be consisently cheaper than DTW in online searches, which surprised me) into Brussels and then I'll leave from Muenster, Germany. I thought that a bigger airport would tend to be cheaper, but it turns out Muenster isn't much more than any other city I have tried. In fact, these cities are hardly more expensive than just a round trip to Brussels. Orbitz has showed me a price of $959 and I've conctacted STA Travel and they haven't been able to do better. Any suggestions? Should I hold out longer, or should I go for it? Oh, I'm planning on leaving in the very end of June and leaving toward the end of July, the expensive season.
Scott Setchfield <email>
MI USA Mon 01/03/2005
Re: Erin: Money, Money, Money
Erin- why TAKE so much cash with you? I use my U.S. ATM card whenever I am in Europe and withdraw money from local ATMs (granted, you pay a fee for this, so I'll often withdraw enough so that my ATM visits are mimimized- perhaps 200-250 euros or so each time, so that I am not walking around with 1,000 euros cash in my money belt!). Also, I would advise using your credit card whenever possible as you'll receive the best exchange rate and this will also minimize the amount of cash you carry around. I know that some smaller inns/pensions/guest-houses don't accept credit cards, but I use credit cards for entarnce to tourist sites/museums/gondolas/restaurants (when accepted), etc. It just may not be a wise idea to walk around with so much cash on you at any given time (of course, store whatever cash/credit card(s), passport and airline ticket in your money belt at all times, just to be on the safe side). Happy travels.
Lawrence <email>
New York City, NY USA Mon 01/03/2005
Re: Tarma- Prague RT $490
Tarma, that strikes me as a great deal. Are you flying CSA Czech Air? I used frequent flyer miles when I flew CSA from JFK-Prague and then from Munich-JFK (via Prague; Munich-Prague portion was on CSA commuter plane), in early October, BUT if I had purchased the ticket out-rite, it would have been over $1,000 (and this was 3 years ago!), so $490 sounds like a great deal. Just don't delay- tix like that are likely to go fast! Safe travels and have a great time- you'll love Prague, a truly beautiful city.
Lawrence <email>
New York, NY USA Mon 01/03/2005
Where to Stay Near Florence
We are heading to Italy in June with our two kids--ages 11 and 14. We are starting in Venice, and then heading to Florence. We will be traveling by train--I'm allergic to European rental cars. We looking for an alternative to staying in Florence. We are trying to find a smaller town to stay in and go to Florence for a day trip. It's got to be on the train line with easy access from Venice. We'll be heading south after that. Any suggestions? Your thoughts and comments would be greatly appreciated.
Barry L <email>
Salt Lake City, UT USA Mon 01/03/2005
ferry from UK to Amsterdam
Has anyone done the ferry from either Amsterdamn-London or Hull to Amsterdam and how did they find the trip? I have a few suggest it and few tell me not to do it this way.thanks
Shane <email>
vancouver, bc Canada Mon 01/03/2005
Provence villa or apt
Shirley...wherever you choose, rent an apartment. With that many mouths to feed you can save a bundle preparing your food. A villa may cost more. Restaurants will eat your money fast. All three towns you mention are expensive. I would find a small town nearby to rent. Do a google.com search for "Arles accommodations" and another for each town. Don’t rent in advance; look at the accommodations before renting. They expect Americans to inspect rooms.
Amelian
Phoenix, USA Sun 01/02/2005
FLYING TO PRAGUE
Flying to Prague from NYCTarma~~~~~~Don’t wait too long to buy that ticket~~~~~~ It sounds like a good buy and tickets won't last long.
LEMMING
Tulsa, USA Sun 01/02/2005
DRIVING IN ITALY
Sherry. My wife and I have driven from Milan through Venice to Rome and back to Zurich without difficulty. The tolls on the super highways are expensive, but faster than the secondary roads which go through every village.Don’t leave anything your car overnight. Always keep it locked and park where you can be sure an attendant will watch it. Hotels are good for that. Do not drive into large cities; park in a suburb and take public trans.
VIRGINIA
New York, NY USA Sun 01/02/2005
MONEY MONEY MONEY
Erin~~Take enough to cover your expenses~~~~~ I always plan on $20 a day for food, $20 a day for hostel lodging, $20 for transportation, $10 for admissions and $15 a day for miscellaneous~~~~~ How much do you spend a home?~~~~ The number of days you will travel will determine if $1000 is enough.
CONNOLLEY
CHICAGO, IL USA Sun 01/02/2005
RENTAL CAR FRANCE AND ITALY
Roger.....I drove my French rental car through Italy down as far as Rome without a problem. Always take everything in to your room when you leave your car. I read that one traveler spread pages from a local newspaper on both seats to make it look like a local car. I have done that on six trips and it must work. Taking the train is often cheaper than paying the excessive drop charges on a car. I would advise doing so after comparing the cost of each method.
MOBINOWITZ
CHICAGO, USA Sun 01/02/2005
Travel Milan to Barcelona
Sue~~~~search for discount air fares on the net. Try applefares.com and europebyair.com. That route is not common to most carriers.
Harbie
USA Sun 01/02/2005
Travel from Milan to Barcelona
What are my best travel options when traveling from Milan to Barcelona? I have discovered that not two many airlines fly that route affordably. Could someone please give me advice for the quickest and most affordable means of travel between these two cities? Train and if possible plane. Thank you, Sue from Ohio
Sue from Ohio <email>
OH USA Sun 01/02/2005
driving in Italy
Driving in Italy is no different then in other countries including the USA>Dont drive in the big cities but do drive in the countyside.If you do drive park on the ouskirts of the big cities and take public transportaion.
jack theune <email>
Sheboygan, wi USA Sun 01/02/2005
French Language Course
Oops!! I just sent in a paragraph about the "Learn to Speak" series. It is put out by "The Learning Company". (not the language company).
Ann
IN USA Sun 01/02/2005
French Language Course
I've found the "Learn to Speak..." Series (CD-ROM)to be good. I used the German "Learn to Speak" kit, and it comes with 2 CD-ROMs, "text & Workbook" book, and user's guide. It also has a pronunciation guide and a way to measure your accent by using a microphone for some of the exercises (I'm not sure how accurate this is). The CD-ROM, Textbook have a overview/plot of a story, the story with diaglouge, vocabulary, exercises, and games. The chapters cover such things as "Arrival, Changing money" (ch. 1), "Asking directions" (ch. 2), "at the post office" (ch. 7), "visiting friends, talking about friends and family" (ch. 20), "eating out" ch. 24), and "at the airport" (ch. 30). My version follows a business man as he is on a business trip in Germany.I'm thinking other languages in this series are similar in nature (as far as set-up, storyline goes). My version is rather old (I got it 1995 or 1996), but I believe it is still out. I just found an 8.0 version. It is put out by a company called "The Language Company." I bet if you "Googled" it or looked on Amazon.com, you'd find it. I think its worth checking into. I may check into the German version myself, being that mine older.
Ann
IN USA Sun 01/02/2005
rental car - France & Italy
We're planning to start our trip next summer in Nice, France, then head off to Cinque Terre, Tuscany, and Rome. I'm worried that a rental car from France will be a good target for thieves in Italy -- any experience with this? Drop-off fees in Rome for a car from France are also quite high.My alternative seems to be to take a train from Nice to Genova and get a new rental car there for the second part of the trip. Any comments will be appreciated.
Roger <email>
Madison, CT USA Sat 01/01/2005
Venice pass
Venice passes - I think they are great. You can get one at any vaporetto stop (all over Venice). Riding the vaporetto esp down the Grand Canal is one of the best things there. Also Lida, Murano, just getting around. However, I think the airport boat is extra. I paid 10 euros to go there in Sept despite my pass. Go for it!
Linda <email>
GC, PA USA Sat 01/01/2005
Marseilles
Why no info on Marseilles, second largest city in France?
Lou <email>
N. brookfield, Ma USA Sat 01/01/2005
French Language Course
My New Year's resolution is to learn French for a month long trip next year. Any recommendations for good audio courses? Am of course most interested in traveller's French....
Beth <email>
Marco Island, FL USA Sat 01/01/2005
Driving in Italy--Sherry
Hi Sherry---I drove all over Italy last May and it was a blast....my first 2 hours were spent driving the Amalfi Coast Road, and after that, you can drive anywhere. If you are not an assertive driver, you'll be somewhat uncomfortable initially, but if you just watch how Italians drive (remember ASSERTIVE, not AGGRESSIVE), you'll do fine. It's not that Italian drivers ignore the laws, they just use common sense....why stop at a stop sign if no one is coming, anyway? I loved it, but learned to drive in very congested DC suburbs....HAVE A BALL!
Beth <email>
Marco Island, FL USA Sat 01/01/2005
Restaurants in London
My Mom and I will be in London in April and are looking for restaurant recommendations. We are interested in hearing about good, moderately priced places for lunch and dinner as well as good take away places (especially in the V & A Museum area). Also looking for someplace for a special birthday dinner -- maybe overlooking the Thames?
Julie <email>
Omaha, NE USA Sat 01/01/2005
Driving in Italy
My husband and I will be in Italy for 4 weeks late April - May. We had planned on driving but after scanning Rick's Italy book are wondering if this is a good idea. We have driven through Spain, Portugal, Turkey and New Zealand. Can anyone who has driven in Italy give us their impressions and whether they would do it again. Thanks.
Sherry <email>
Edmonton, Alberta Canada Sat 01/01/2005
Money Money Money
You need to let us know how long your trip will be!Are you staying in youth hostels/hotels? Do you want to go to museums - ar you eating in resturants, or buying food at the market? How many people are going with you?
CO USA Sat 01/01/2005
rail pass for 2
Mumfrey... Check out point 2 on Swan’s Dec 29 posting. Stay in a smaller area. You are only there for 2 weeks; don’t try to see the whole continent. If you need a 5 country, 8 day Eurail pass for a two-week vacation, you are trying to do too much. Spend more time in fewer places so you don’t need as many railpass days. Don’t try to see 5 countries; there is enough to see just in Germany. You shouldn’t need to use your railpass every day. Do some research on the areas you want to visit. There are probably local transport deals for far less than a day on your Eurail pass. Get familiar with bahn.de, not just for schedules, but read about special on the International Guests pages. If you ride local trains, both of you can travel all day in any individual German state for no more than €24, or anywhere in Germany on a weekend day for €30, total.If you want to lower the price of travel, try to avoid Eurail completely. Their passes are first class. You can get 2nd class one or two country passes for a lot less. Instead of an 8 day, 5 country Eurail pass for $488 pP (per person), you could get a 4 day German rail twin pass AND a four day French rail Saver pass for only $321 pP. You could get a six day Germany-Benelux twin pass for only $218 pP.
Larry <email>
CO USA Sat 01/01/2005
Money, Money, Money
How much money should I take to Europe? I'm backpacking to Ireland, England, France, Germany, Poland, Italy and Greece. I think I should take about 1000 dollars thats not including plane ticket
Erin <email>
Warren, MI USA Sat 01/01/2005
Driving in Rome
Kathy-we also had a rental car in Tuscany with the last night in Rome. We drove it into Rome and enjoyed stopping along the way. Though I was worried about all the horror stories about driving in Rome it wasn't bad. Once we got into town we parked it and left it until we needed to get out the next morning - but it sure wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Therefore - I'd vote to not spend the extra $180 for the train, but rather, get good directions (try via michelin website) and figure out where you need to drop it.
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Sat 01/01/2005
Flying to Prague from NYC
I am planning to fly from JFK to Prague, then to Budapest, and back to JFK in April. I found a deal online for $490 midweek. Should I book or search for a better deal?
Tarma <email>
White Plains, NY USA Sat 01/01/2005
Provence base
If the girls are teenagers and want to be on their own some, Aix would be nice, but budget lodgings can be hard to find. I have stayed in Avignon in budget lodgings not far from the (old) train station and bus connections. The town is connected by train and bus to the area.
Swan
USA Sat 01/01/2005
Provence villa or apt
Five of us (2 moms, 3 daughters) are planning a trip to Provence. Would like to homebase in one spot but undecided...Arles? St Remy? Aix en Provence? Need accommodation help...recommended villas or apts. We plan a two week stay. On a budget.
Shirley <email>
Bremerton, WA USA Sat 01/01/2005