Travelers' Helpline Archives:
March 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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Munich to Venice Sleeper reservations
The French own Rail Europe, and they have yet to admit that the Alps are not an impenatrable obstacle and that there is a way to get to Venice via Brenner Pass. You can get these tickets online from Bahn.de, but they won't tell you the price until you buy them. You can also get them from Nachtzugreise.de. You might get them online for a lower "Savings Night" fare (€39 for a couchette 6), or maybe full fare by phone. If you plan to use a railpass, you can get reservations from Euraide.
Larry <email>
CO USA Thu 03/31/2005
Renting push wheelchair in England
I am returning to England in October, this time as a person who is disabled. At home I can get by with walking short distances with crutches; I know I will need a manual wheelchair in England. Does anybody know how I can rent one in advance - has anybody done this? Thank you.
B. Ramberg <email>
Oakland,, CA USA Thu 03/31/2005
Day pack in front
I've sold daypacks for several companies. No one I know of makes a "front" daypack. You can use the straps anyway you want. Some how people in Europe feel it's necessary to wear their pack on the front for security. My husband usually takes a daypack, I take a shoulder bag. We've never had an issue with security. We watch each other during travel...of course we've never found ourselves on overcrowded metro trains, or trains! I'm sure you can take your daypack and wear it on your chest if you want, but I think that would be very uncomfortable for any length of time walking!
USA Thu 03/31/2005
Help! Munich to Venice sleeper reservations!
I need help with something-- I just booked a bunch of train reservations on RailEurope, including sleeper car reservations for our trip from Munich to Venice. However, RailEurope came back to me and said that the train from Munich to Venice, (via Zurich) was totally booked for the 13th. This is a huge problem because we have hotel reservations on the 14th of May! So getting on a night train on 13 May is imperative for us. I need help coming up with a Plan B, getting from Munich to Venice and arriving early in the morning on 14 May. I have a EurRail selectpass, so all I need is couchette or sleeper car reservations. I tried looking on the DeutschBahn website, but I couldn't find where to buy sleepr car reservations only. Please let me know what to do with this problem! :)
Megan <email>
Hillsboro, , OR USA Thu 03/31/2005
Night ferry from Palermo to Naples
Has anyone taken the night time ferry from Palermo to Naples....and if you did, how did you find that experience? We are planning to do this in May...sleep on the ferry, arrive in Naples, then find the ferry to Sorrento. Anyone have some advise for us? What type of reservation is needed? Advise on the type of accomodation to book? Thanks Rick's Readers!
USA Thu 03/31/2005
dav pack to wear in the front
what companY/S makes a day pack that you carry in the front on your chest and not on your back. I would think you could keep a better EYE on it on the front,
LYNDA <email>
SARANAC LAKE, NY USA Thu 03/31/2005
Pope
USA~~If the Pope dies I'm sure a lot of places will close out of repect. Be perpared to find things closed or open for only a few hours. You have to respect them and their love for the Pope.
USA Thu 03/31/2005
Ireland Backpacker Bus Circuits??
Ireland questions :-)Looking into Jump on Jump off tours (paddywagons/ Tir na nOg)mentioned in RS books. Their websites not very helpful. Has anyone gone on one of these? Also Paddywagons price is 89 pounds? not Euro and that is $167+ seems like a lot. One reason I thought the Backpacker bus would be good is because they take you right to hostel/budget hotel and they see sights along the way. thoughts anyone?Also anyone recommend specific Irish Hostels??
Destiny <email>
Park City, Utah USA Thu 03/31/2005
Vendors
LOTS of street vendors in Paris, selling just about everything....except knockoffs of great French name-brand stuff. The French police are very hard on these people if they show themselves. After all, it would be upsetting for the Louis Vuitton people to find a knockoff vendor a few blocks away from their store on the Champs Elysee! You may get lucky in one of the big "flea" markets, but I don't recall seeing knockoffs of things like French perfumes, Hermes scarves, or the like.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 03/31/2005
Plus camping in Italy
Does anyone know anything about PLUS camping villages/hostels in Italy? They have sites in Florence, Venice, and Rome, and are very cheap, but are not mentioned in any guidebooks that I have seen. Has anyone stayed there? I found them on Europeanhostels.com. Is this a reputable website?
Sara <email>
Somerville, MA USA Thu 03/31/2005
The Pope
If the Pope died, many Romans would mourn (just as most Catholics would); I'd assume that the citizens might be a little down, that perhaps a museum might be closed, but "Life Goes On"- and depending on the timing you'll have an opportunity to see and experience an event that is completely out of the ordinary- I'd suggest embracing the experience, not dreading it.
TonyC
denver, co USA Thu 03/31/2005
Pope
What will happen to our trip if the Pope dies? We leave for Rome TOMORROW!
USA Thu 03/31/2005
Getting Euros
By all means, get some Euros before going to Europe. Sometimes it pays to pay a little extra for peace of mind (and convenience). TravelEx at the airport is high, but sooooo convenient. I bring leftover euros home with me at the end of trips, then next trip I replenish my money supply in Europe before I need it. I often have hundreds of Euros in my money belt. I also make a point of returning home with a few tickets for the Paris Metro. Ditto for a phone card with leftover minutes. They are usually good for at least a year. Hey, we're talking about going "budget" aren't we?
USA Thu 03/31/2005
train, Rome to Vernazza
That train schedule sounds reasonable to me. I'd go by train rather than mess around with buses or planes. It all takes time.
USA Thu 03/31/2005
Rooms in Athens, Greece
I was wondering if anyone knows of a clean, cheap room in Athens, Greece. I am looking for a hostel with rooms for 2 or anything else as long as its clean!Bathrooms and showers down the hall are fine. We are a couple travelling on a budget and converting from the Canadian dollar. Any information would be appreciated.
Isabelle <email>
BC Canad Thu 03/31/2005
France/Italy itinerary
We’re a group of 6 planning a 2.5 - 3 week trip next March / April to visit Provence, Cinque Terre, Tuscany / Umbria, Venice & Rome & seeking ideas for how best to include these regions but minimize the hassles.
Much of the Umbrian region we wish to see is relatively close to Rome, so I question the best way to include Venice. Presently I am considering flying to Marseilles, driving to Tuscany/Umbria, taking a train from Florence to Venice, then flying home from Venice with 3-4 day layover in Rome. But that involves driving south to Umbria and back north to Florence.
Another possibility would be the reverse itinerary. We could rent in Rome and drive north, but it becomes awkward to include Venice while minimizing car rentals.
How have any of you done this and what suggestions would you offer?
Bosshorn <email>
Victoria, TX USA Thu 03/31/2005
We really need help with this one - anyone have a good referral?
We really really need some advice on this one. My husband and I are celebrating our anniversary in Paris and are looking for a clean, charming B&B. Anyone (please!) have any advice! Your help would be greatly appreciated.
Karla <email>
USA Thu 03/31/2005
Wonderful dilema
Boy - is this a great problem to have or what? We'll be traveling from Cinque Terre to Paris on the last leg of our honeymoon. The question: What to do with the time in between? My options: CT to Chamonix to Burgundy to Paris OR CT to Bern (meet some friends of friends) to Colmar to Paris.Anyone have a preference? Your input is much appreciated!Josh
Josh <email>
Chicago, Il USA Thu 03/31/2005
Turkey Tour Questions
My husband and I are scheduled for one of Rick's Turkey tours later this year. We would like to correspond via e-mail specifically with former Turkey tour members. If you have taken the tour, please send us a note. We would love to have some of our questions answered by someone who has been there before.
Donna <email>
Parrish, FL USA Thu 03/31/2005
Amboise to CDG
We will be staying in Amboise prior to leaving from CDG, on a 4:20p.m. Is it any problem driving to CDG from Amboise in a reasonable time to be at CDG to turn car in at 1:30p.m. or 2:00p.m.? We would love to have as much time in Loire area as possible. How about turning the car in at Tours and taking the TGV to CDG?
Jon D <email>
Renton, WA USA Thu 03/31/2005
Oanda and exch rate
One of the things I really like about Oanda.com is that they give historical rates. When you return from Europe you can look at your bank statement and see how many dollars per Euro you paid on a certain date, then go to Oanda and find what the rate was on that day. So many people here post that they weren't charged anything for their ATM withdrawal, but I think if they saw what the rate really was that day they would find that wasn't true.
Larry
CO USA Thu 03/31/2005
Euros Currency Exchange
Rob... When talking about foreign exchange, be careful with the terminology. The Interbank rate, sometimes called the cross or peer-to-peer rate, is the rate at which major banks exchange currency where no one is making money off the transaction. It changes constantly, but you can get a pretty good idea of what it is right now from Oanda.com or from CNN. Market rate has no meaning by itself; it is just the rate that the bank is charging today, with their profit included. A few minutes ago, the IB rate from Oanda was $1.2968 per Euro. When I called Regions bank this morning, their "feeless" rate was $1.3689 per Euro. That is a markup of 5.5%. That's not really bad. Bank of America and Wells Fargo were 4.9% at the same time. All three are still alot lower than someone like Travelex, who just quoted me $1.3925 (7.4%)
Larry <email>
CO USA Thu 03/31/2005
Big Feet, Big Boots, Big clothes
I'm going on the GAS tour in a few months and I want to take a good pair of boots for the hiking. The problem is my big feet (size 14 EEE). That means BIG HEAVY boots which take up a lot of room, if I pack them or I would be forced to walk around looking like a 64-year-old Dork in on the 7-day Paris Tour, which I'm taking before going up to St Goar for the beginning of the GAS tour. Believe me, my shoes take up a lot of room as do all my clothes. I'm a big guy with big clothes. The dimensions of my luggage are not supposed to be any larger than that of a Jr. Petite. Does anyone have recommendations as to a solution for this? If you have taken the GAS Tour, could you have gotten by with one pair of carefully chosen boots/shoes which might work well enough for Paris and other cities?
David Durbin <email>
McKinleyville, CA USA Thu 03/31/2005
Croque madame in Paris
Chris, it's called Croque Madame (with the egg) and Croque Monsieur is without the egg. You can also have a Croque Hawaiian with pineapple...quite tasty as well.Here is a recipe I found:Makes 1 serving. INGREDIENTS:2 slices bread of your choice, 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter, slice of cooked ham, 2-3 Tablespoons grated Gruyère. PREPARATION: Preheat broiler.1. Spread the butter thinly on both sides of the bread. 2. Lay the ham on one slice and sprinkle on the cheese. 3. Cover with the second slice of bread. Place under broiler for about 1-2 minutes. . Turn sandwich and broil on the other side and serve immediately. For a variation:While the sandwich is broiling, fry an egg sunnyside up or over easy and place it on the finished sandwich. Voilà a croque-madame
Brandie <email>
KS USA Thu 03/31/2005
Ham sandwiches in Paris
Those are very good and very cheapCroque madames?
USA Thu 03/31/2005
Ham sandwich
I hope some one out there can help me with this one. In the fall we went to several different cities in France and just about all the cafes make these ham and cheese sandwiches. The spell it croque but say it like croak and they have his and her versions. The her has a kind of runny egg on it. My questions is does anyone know how they make the his version. I cant seem to get it right
Chris
Aurora, CO USA Thu 03/31/2005
hiking Austia
Any suggestions on hiking through Austrian Alps? I will base myself either in Salzburg or Reutte (to get to Ludwig's castles). I'm looking at two day-long hikes, a little leery of camping alone overnight.
Jennifer <email>
Malta , OH USA Thu 03/31/2005
GREECE
I will go to Greece in November. The only part of my trip that has not been planned is two days on the mainland of Greece (away from Athens). Where should I go ? I do not insist on going to an ancient site (Corinth, or Mycenae) because there is not much there : the ancient buildings were torn down and hauled away hundreds of years ago. I have an open mind : any region of Greece: ancient site, or Italian town,or natural scenary. Is Monemvasia worth going to as the only place to see in one entire day ? Is the train ride from Diakofto to Kalavryta, to see the Vouraikos Gorge, worthwhile as the only destination that day ? If I did that, I guess I would stay overnight at Diakofto. What is the best transportation to go to Diakofto (from Corinth, or Athens): railroad train ? I will appreciate any suggestions.
Ron W. <email>
MO USA Thu 03/31/2005
carryon backpack
I want to use an Eagle Creek convertable back pack as carry-on luggage, but the pack frame has two metal "stays" that are removeable. Will this pack make it through security?
Karen Cotton <email>
Coeur d Alene, ID USA Thu 03/31/2005
Rome to Vernazza
Try AirOne, a budget Italy only airline to Pisa or Milan or Genoa from Rome, then train to Vernazza. May be about the same amt of time as train though.
Linda
USA Thu 03/31/2005
Euros Currency Exchange
Regions Bank has an international banking department that will exchange dollars to Euros at the current market rate without a fee if you have an account with them.
Rob
Little Rock, AR USA Thu 03/31/2005
Re: Euros
Just to chime in on the Euro topic; I am usually confident enough to travel with just my ATM and credit card, and have always survived. That said, I also believe that the best defense is diversity. At least once per trip, I will encounter ATMs (usually in an entire area, once all of Paris, another in the Cinque Terra) that do not function, places my credit card won't work, or expenses above what I planned. To supplement ATM and credit, I still take a couple hundred in travellers checks(My bank gives them to me with no fees) and I always have US currency. This way I have backups, and carrying a few pieces of paper in my moneybelt is not an inconvienance. As for prepurchasing Euros in the states, if that gives you security, then do it. I generally risk it, or have some left over from the last trip.
Paul <email>
IA USA Thu 03/31/2005
train times/Eurostar
When we are traving from Amsterdam to Europe we are having to change trains in paris to the Eurostar and I was wondering how much time you need to change trains like that?The closest schedule gives us about 45-50 minutes between the trains arrival and the eurostar's departure...should we be waiting until the next eurostar departs?Also another question about the Eurostar is is possible even tho we will have paid for a ticket from paris-London that we could get off the train early before we get into London, at one of the other stops? Reason for this is we are going to visit some family in the Eastbourne area.
Bluedenim <email>
vancouver, bc canada Thu 03/31/2005
Visa money card
I looked into the money card,but it carries some significant fees, so i did not use it.
USA Thu 03/31/2005
Rome Sightseeing Tours
Has anyone ever used Icon Tours in Rome?
USA Thu 03/31/2005
trains from Rome to Vernazza?
We are arriving in Rome at approx 10:00am on a Sun in late Sept & want to get to Vernazza on the same day. I have checked the trenitalia website & see where there is a train departing Rome's termini @ 11:46, arriving in Vernazza @ 16:48, taking 5 hrs, using IC/R trains. Does anyone have any suggestions for a faster way to get to Vernazza, such as buses? We are planning to use public transportation for our 30 days in Italy. Thanks for your help. Robin
Robin <email>
Niceville, FL USA Thu 03/31/2005
Visa Money Card
Has anyone used a Visa Money Card in Europe? I was told you can load your card with any amount of money then use it like a regular Visa.
Linda <email>
Mount Vernon, OH USA Thu 03/31/2005
ATMs
We may have been lucky but I guess the secret is to use credit when possible and to get €€ at different locations so that you seldom are nearly cashless. Many banks and I think even RS (as well as others) say that Visa works best and other cards (debit or credit) are iffy. Don't know if this is so.Didn't mean to sound smarmy, was just crowing !!!
Paul n Sara
USA Thu 03/31/2005
To 1st Time Eurailer
Hi there. The Eurail Pass cover is the entire folder within which is stapled your actual pass. It includes the Blue front page that says "Eurail, The best way to see Europe" and the foldout mailer entitiled "Eurail Souvenir", and the page listing "Condiciones de uso". The entire package must be kept intact. Enjoy your pass!
Bob <email>
North Little Rock, AR USA Thu 03/31/2005
Cash machines not working
Paul and Sara, You don't know how lucky your are that you haven't encountered trouble with ATM's. I have had trouble on several trips to Italy getting money from machines. Once in Venice "the system" was down for 24 hours and no money was available. I would never depend on machines for my only source of cash.
USA Thu 03/31/2005
Train to Cinque Terre
Last year I took a train to Milan and transferred there to get to CT, a trip of about 11 hours. Paris-Turin-CT would save time, but it all depends on the train schedules. To get to CT via Nice in 10-11 hours is possible if the train schedules will cooperate. Going the other direction last year, I took four different trains: CT to Genoa, Genoa to Nice, Nice to Marseilles, Marseilles to Paris. It took about 11 hours. Good luck.
USA Wed 03/30/2005
larger people
Just want to say...just go be yourself...enjoy....be open to meeting people....I have always said as long as you be yourself, respect certain customs of where you are and just be open people will have no problems with you and accept you for who you are...enjoy!!
bluedenim
vancouver, bc canada Wed 03/30/2005
China travel
Betsy,For China I'd recommend Lonely Planet, hands down. You could also take a look at Moon and Rough Guide. Lots of glossies to read to decide on sights - Insight, Passport, Odyssey.Tours - if you stick to the east coast big cities, Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Xi'an you can likely manage without a tour, but for a first-timer elsewhere a tour would be worthwhile. In Asia I've traveled with a budget Aussie outfit called Intrepid Travel, but they are very backdoor. Adventures Abroad is probably closer to a Rick Steves tour. There are lots of companies out there, what kind of tour are you looking for? I spent seven weeks in China last year, on my own (and I don't speak Mandarin) - the itinerary and some info is on my website, www.wilhelmswords.comRoger, for general advice I'd look for a copy of Lonely Planet's "Read This First: Asia and India" (may be out of print) or the Rough Guide's equivalent.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Wed 03/30/2005
BA World Traveler Plus
Thanks for letting me know that it's not a huge difference. I won't get my hopes up too much! :>) Like you said every little bit helps. The price difference was not that different in the scheme of things. If we were to upgrade to business class it would cost us $3000 RT EACH from what we now have! (vs $150 or so for the plus). That's nuts! I'll dream of being upgraded to business class (or, if we travel on business my company will upgrade us on flights 8 hours or more)but I figure since we'll be sleeping I just wanted to "stretch my legs a little". I was really sold on the extra weight for carry ons. We want to only travel with carry-ons but they will 20 lbs or so - not the 13 they allow in economy. We didn't want to check our luggage. Thanks for the encouragement! We're looking forward to it.
Kelly <email>
Seattle, Wa USA Wed 03/30/2005
Buying Euros in US
Paul... Although I am a firm believer in having a few hundred Euro in your pocket when you arrive, I'm practical. I think more than that is unnecessary and too expensive. Likewise, to spend fixed shipping and handling fees on this small amount makes it too expensive. Therefore, I would avoid any online currency purchase. Apparently, every branch of Bank of Americal nationwide sells Euro at about 5 1/2% over the interbank rate. Main branches of Wells Fargo sell it for 1/2% less. If you don't have these banks, check around. I think Amer Exp and Travelex are too expensive too.
Larry <email>
CO USA Wed 03/30/2005
Buying Euros in US
Bank of America sells Euros for what appears to be a lot cheaper than Thomas Cook. Go to their website...you order online and they show the rate. Don't even have to have an account.
Paul
CA USA Wed 03/30/2005
BA World Traveler Plus
Kelly/Jillian -- just so you don't get expect TOO much comfort from World Traveller Plus -- we got lucky and got upgraded to that once, and while it was SLIGHTLY roomier than coach (and every little bit helps!), it wasn't a huge difference. In fact, as you walk through it to get to coach, you can hardly see the difference. I don't know what the cost difference is between WT Plus and Business class, but there is a HUGE difference in the seating between those two. Business looks like heaven -- I can't even imagine what it's like upstairs in First!
Kristin
USA Wed 03/30/2005
Large people in the UK
Kelly~~I have see a lot of large people in the UK, you will not stand out. Don't worry about what people may think, go and have a great time.
Oh USA Wed 03/30/2005
Rooms in Rome
I leave for Rome tomorrow and we got a holiday apartment through Roman Reference. I did a lot of research so I hope I picked a good place. Price and location was really good. email is info@romanreference.com when I return on the 7th of April I will report back! I feel prepared for my trip and have more confidence after reading the info here for the last few weeks. Thanks to all for your great advise.
Annette <email>
Federal Way, wa USA Wed 03/30/2005
Euros.. Schmuros
We never encountered trouble with ATMs in either Italy or Spain ans we used them during a 40-day period last year. I do not think that ATMs werent working at airport bcuz of problems accepting cards. They were likely overused and empty! After all, it's an AIRPORT. It is always a good idea to tell your bank where you will be and to be sure you will be able to take a larger daily amount. Remember (alas) that US money is almost worthless, so $500 is only 380€ and that doesnt go THAT far. You don't want to go to an ATM every day but you DO want to use them in prefernce to exchange places or local banks. They will be MUCH cheaper and FAR easier.
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport , MA USA Wed 03/30/2005
First euros
After a couple of experiences with non-functioning ATMs, I always get around 50 euros before leaving the US. Last year we arrived at CDG confidently expecting to use the ATMs before our connecting flight. They just weren't working. Had to change our very few US dollars at an Amex window at a terrible rate in order to avoid arriving in Genoa cashless. On an earlier trip, We found no ATMs in the central station in Milan operating. We were needing to get lunch before a longish journey, and none of the food facilities would take our credit cards. European ATMs do seem to have more problems, at least in accepting US cards, so I would advise to be prepared either with a small fund of euros acquired here or around $100.
Habe
Berkeley, CA USA Wed 03/30/2005
Villefranche-sur-Mer is my choice
Rob -- we went to Villefranche-sur-Mer a couple of years ago with our daughters (late teens), and we're going back again in a few months with some friends. It's a beautiful, peaceful town, just a very short drive away from Nice, and a good home base for Monaco, Riviera hill towns, Antibes, Cannes... Villefranche is a great town for strolling, some nice beaches, good restaurants, etc. Nice is a big city with crowds, some grime and pickpockets -- nice (no pun intended) to visit, but I wouldn't want to stay there. Go to Nice one day to buy food at the market and have a picnic lunch on the beach. We stay at Hotel la Darse in Villefranche, a humble little hotel, down by the harbor.
Roger
Madison, CT USA Wed 03/30/2005
Vendors
Mimi, there are many street vendors in Paris. I personally don't remember seeing scarves, but I'd guess they have them.
Ash <email>
Victoria, British Columbia Canada Wed 03/30/2005
Cassis, Antibes, or Ville franche-sur-mer??
My family and I are flying into Nice in April (2 kids - an 8 year old & 1 year old). We are considering staying in one of 3 towns (Cassis, Antibes, or Ville franche-sur-mer). Any recommendations as to which would be the most 'family friendly'/'budget friendly' town? Thanks. Rob
Rob <email>
Prince George, BC Canada Wed 03/30/2005
china travels
Betsy -- after several trips to Europe with Rick Steves always handy in my pocket, we are also thinking about travelling to china... without RS. So far, we're inclined to take a fully guided tour. Uniworld tours look well-run and high quality, but not too expensive considering what is included; see www.uniworld.com. We're also starting to look into tours at www.ritztours.com. Does anyone have any experience with these or other tour companies, or general advice for travels in China?Thanks.
Roger <email>
Madison, CT USA Wed 03/30/2005
Train Travel Italy
Joanne - There are yellow machines all over the stations and usually on the platforms. It's very similar to punching a time clock or validating a ticket on the Metro. You slide your ticket in the machine, wait for the "Ca-Chunk" sound and pull out your ticket. If you don't validate your ticket before you board the train, you can get hit with a fine. The fine is to dissuade people from trying to re-use a ticket.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Wed 03/30/2005
Validating train tickets in Italy
Joanne – There are yellow boxes along the tracks. You stick the end of your ticket in, and it time-stamps it. You need to do this before getting on. If, for some reason, you are unable to do this before getting on, find the conductor before he finds you. If you go to him he will probably just hand cancel the ticket, and warn you to validate in the future. If he finds you with an unvalidated ticket, he may fine you.
Angela
Lexington, KY USA Wed 03/30/2005
Train Travel Italy
I see several have mentioned getting ticket Validated or you will be fined is there someplace you do this in the station or is it done on the train?
Joanne <email>
Los Banos, ca USA Wed 03/30/2005
Car rental - Umbria vs Rome
Judith - take the train 1 hour north of Rome to Orvieto for your car pick up. Orvieto is in Umbria, so not that far from your destination. Book thru Autoeurope for the best rate. You can drop the car off their also.
Sue Cramer <email>
Peoria, AZ USA Wed 03/30/2005
Eurail passes
I just received my Eurail pass in the mail but am confused about something it says on it. At the bottom, it says the pass is only valid with a Eurail cover. What is this cover? Nothing I received that looks remotely like a cover says Eurail on it. Thanks!
1st time Eurailer
Canada Wed 03/30/2005
Knock Off Shopping in Paris.
Husband and I going to Paris. Like New York, does Paris have street vendors who sell knock off Hermes, Chanel, Dior items for cheap cheap cheap like scarves, bags, etc.? If so, where are these people most likely to be seen? I love Hermes scarves and shawls but do not want to pay $850.00 a piece. Any information would help. Thank you all!
Mimi
NYC, NY USA Wed 03/30/2005
TRAIN TO CINQUE TERRE
CHRIS.....The best and shortest route from Paris is through Genoa. Stop at Monterossa and change to the local train so you can stop at the one village of the five you want to see. I spent a week in Vernazza and rode the train every day to another village.
MANDY C.
TULSA, USA Wed 03/30/2005
First Euros
On our 3rd trip to Italy, we took no Euros, figured we'd use our ATM card in the Milan Malpensa Airport Lobby to get them.Well, the dang machine was either broken or out of money, because it wouldn't work! My wife still had a US $20, and I had a $10, so Thomas Cook sold us enough Euros to pay the bus fare to Milano Centrale. Went to their machines- "your card is not enabled for international transactions" HOLY CRAP!! Icewater in our veins, tried again... and got all the Euros we needed. ATMs sometimes don't give you accurate error messages! We now always each carry a US $100 in our shoes, in case of emergency!
TonyC
denver, co USA Wed 03/30/2005
train to cinque terre
i am planning on taking a train to the cinque terre from paris. i know there is no direct train, but what would be the best and shortest route to get me there in one day (or 1 night). i was thinking paris to genoa, to la spezia, but im not sure. anyone who's been there before would be a lot of help..thanks
chris <email>
USA Wed 03/30/2005
Roma Rooms
Try apartment site like vrbo.com or venere.com Check out hostels (some have double rooms), look to suburbs of Rome as well. Check out sites for the province of Lazio (where Rome is located). Good luck.We were in Rome in mid-May last year and had no trouble finding a room, stayed at Casa Olmata.
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport , MA USA Wed 03/30/2005
Rooms in Rome
OK, I'm starting to panic! I'm trying to find 2 rooms in Rome for May 11 through May 14 and have been getting the no vacancy sign at most of the ones in Rick's book and a few others. Is it really that busy? Are we going to end up camping out in a Piazza? Does anyone have any suggestions?Thanks
Allan <email>
South Portland, USA Wed 03/30/2005
Getting Euros in Copenhagen Airport
Copenhagen Airport has two banks within the transfer area. Both also serve as Bureau de Change. They are open from 6 am to 11 pm. You can buy euros here with cash or with a credit card, even though Denmark is not on the Euro. I don't know how much you will loose on the conversion rate though, but I think it would be similar than other banks in Europe.
Chrismo1
Copenhagen, Denmark Wed 03/30/2005
Haarlem Hotel
Has anyone stayed at Hotel Die Raeckse in Haarlem? We are booked there in late April, but I don't see it listed often or commented on? anyone?
Nancy <email>
Tampa, FL USA Wed 03/30/2005
Those first Euros
Over the past three years, I have had very sketchy luck, maybe it's me, at CDG in Paris and LDV airport in Rome getting euros from the machines. The thing that saved me in Rome is that I had about $150.00 with me as usual because many Italians will still take dollars in shops, etc. So I changed the dollars at the airport to euros, taking a nice hit, and was able to get to my hotel over by the Pantheon. In Paris, I was not so lucky. After that, I have never gone over without at least 100.00 euros in my pocket. I do save them from previous trips and have actually bought them from friends who are one time travelers to Europe. But then I am a planner and have never been comfortable flying by the seat of my pants.
Kevin
Houston, TX USA Wed 03/30/2005
Le Peonie B+B
We are going to Italy this June and have found what looks like a good deal and a nice place outside of Rome. Does anybody know anything about the LePeonie B+B in Vetralla, Italy. Any feedback would be helpful.ThanksPeggy
Peggy <email>
Riverton, WY USA Wed 03/30/2005
Those first Euros
This is one of those discussions that pops up from time to time and it never has a "right" answer. I've read postings from people who thought they would just get money from the first ATM they see, only to discover that all of the ATMs are empty because they arrived on a holiday or during a strike by the people who reload the ATMs. And other people have never had a problem. My opinion on this question is to err on the side of caution. Yes, getting euros here is expensive. Yes, I hate overpaying. But it can be a small price to pay to have the peace of mind knowing that you'll be able to get into town from the airport without a hassle. And I agree with Larry below - save some euros for your next trip, if you are planning to return to the euro zone. You mentioned the possibility of getting euros in Copenhagen. Denmark is NOT on the euro. They still use the Danish krone. So would not be able to get euros from an ATM in Copenhagen, leaving you with changing dollars into euros at an exchange bureau. Exchange bureaus in airports are usually a bad deal. Plus, I would guess they would hit you with 2 exchanges: from dollars to krone, then from krone to euros. If this is the case, you would probably wind up paying the same bad rate as you would at home.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Wed 03/30/2005
Where in Liguria
I'mm planning a week of cycling off a boat from Belgium to Amsterdam, then a week walking at Lake Garda, then a week walking at Bonassola (Cinque Terre area), Sept - early Oct 2005. Then I have 5 days before going home, leaving from Genoa. I love the sea and wish to spend those days in Loguria by the sea. I've already spent a week in Alassio (near France border) and several days in Cinque Terre (La Spezia). I had thought I might spend the days in S. Margarita Ligure. Or should I go to Genoa and day trip from there? Or San Remo area? Any suggestions you may have will be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Linda <email>
PA USA Wed 03/30/2005
Germany for a week
Ann - I don't think you're being too aggressive in your schedule at all. In fact, allowing a full day for Rheinfels Castle and St. Goar is a bit too much time for that day. Your third day of Burg Eltz and Marksburg sounds good without being stressful. Just to throw out a thought, have you thought of staying in Munich for a few nights? There's plenty to see there, and you can take some nice day trips out of Munich (Neuschwanstein, Hohenschangau, Herrenchiemsee, Salzburg). As far as train info, take a look at www.bahn.de. Click on English on the left. This is the site of the German rail system.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Wed 03/30/2005
Car or Train?
We will be in Italy for two weeks in Sept/Oct. For the first ten days we will be in Umbria, where we'll need a car, then we'll be in Rome for four days, and will not need a car. We are flying into Fiumicino airport. What would you advise. Either renting a car at the airport and then dropping it off at, say, Perugia train station before going to Rome. Or, train to Perugia and picking up and dropping off a car from there. This is our first time in Italy. What is the road trip like from Rome to Assisi?
Judith <email>
Canada Wed 03/30/2005
March weather
Weather north of the alps is similar to our midwest. South of the alps would be milder in March. Unless you like cold weather, I would head for Rome in late March and leave Paris and Frankfurt for later in the spring--at least late April.
USA Wed 03/30/2005
Passports at hotels
In Italy passport info is collected and turned over to the police. Your passport is actually needed by the hotel only for as long as it takes to fill out a form with your name and passport info. They can return your passport to you at this point--after only a few minutes. If they insist on keeping it, it is probably because they want to be sure of being paid for the hotel room. I suppose you could pre-pay on the room if this would get you possession of your passport. I suspect the law is on the side of the customer, but it may be difficult to convince some hotel clerks of this.
Swan
USA Wed 03/30/2005
Weather - Spring Break
I'm thinking of going to Paris, Frankfort and Rome during spring break next year, late March. Is the weather good during this time or would it be better to wait until summer??
Thomas Myers <email>
Des Moines, IA USA Wed 03/30/2005
Italy and passports
We had to give our passports over to hotel management for the length of our stay in every hotel I think without exception. This included a four star villa as well as a three star hotel. I do not know how you would handle a purchase of goods that would qualify for VAT since we did not buy anything in Italy that amounted to that much. I know in the UK we bought china and to get the VAT a passport had to be shown.
RK
USA Wed 03/30/2005
Holiday Sunday in Rome
Trastevere - it is delightful to walk around there, and there is also a beautiful botanical garden. Go look at Spanish Steps and Trevi fountain - walk around and look at ALL the fountains! Go to St Peters. Take the train 1 hour to Orvieto - another world from Rome...a hilltown built on a tufa mountaintop with a wonderful cathedral and other ancient buildings...just a few of the things I would do.
Linda <email>
PA USA Wed 03/30/2005
PRAGUE -Steepness of walk up hill towards castle
Prague - we've found a wonderful apt in Mala Strana on Nerudova street halfway between the bridge and the castle. Can anyone tell me how steep the walk up Mostecka then midway on Nerudova is? I'm all for walking, but need to know if this is a steep uphill "climb" or a reasonable uphill walk. Would we be better off across the river midway into Old Town? Thanks
C. Leeding <email>
Portland, OR USA Wed 03/30/2005
Staying In Basel
My family and I (wife and two young daughters are travelling to Lake Garda from N. Ireland via Troyes & Basel. Can anyone recommend cheap and cheerful hotel to stay at in Basel?
John Reid <email>
Belfast, Antrim Ireland Wed 03/30/2005
Getting Euros in Milan Airport
Contrary to poster below, when I did a google on atm locations milan airport I found several sites telling me that there are numerous ATM's all over the airport. I stopped pre-purchasing foreign money a long time ago and have not had a problem.
USA Wed 03/30/2005
Passports
Our passports were routinely taken at hotels and even at the hostel we stayed at.That had nothing to do with violation of EU law, as Larry had said might be so. We were not required to "show" our passports, just give em over for clerical reasons. In many places it is required that the names and id info of itinerant persons be given to local police. I'm sure it is also a protection for the hotel re skipping on bills.
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport , MA USA Wed 03/30/2005
Passports
I have been to different parts of Italy about 10 times in as many years, and I have always had to leave my passport with the hotel. Most of them have been budget places, but one in Pompeii was a two star place. I thought this was just "standard procedure" in Italy.
USA Tue 03/29/2005
china
hi, for once i'm leaving europe and going to china! i don't know what i'll do without my trusted rick steves guidebook for the best tips, history and giggles that have given me wonderful adventures in years past. so, going into unknown territory, i was wondering if anyone had any advice on china. where to go? the best books? the best tours? suggest 4 week itineraries? anything you have would be really helpful! thank you and see you in europe really soon!
betsy <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 03/29/2005
passports
Passports. I finally have to weigh in one this issue because what I hear is absolutely contrary to what I have observed. The mordern Europe is supposed to be a continent without borders. I have spent 10 weeks in Germany in the past five years and other than at passport control at the airport, no one has ever asked to see my passport. I have stayed in 19 "hotels" in this time, and never have I been asked to even show my passport. Europeans are supposed to be able to circulate freely without need for passports. I wonder, one, if they are using this as a pretense to record information because they don't trust you, and/or, two, if they are violating EU laws by doing this?
Larry <email>
CO USA Tue 03/29/2005
Germany for a week
I'm planning what to do in Germany, in June. I guess I already have an idea, but am wondering if I can fit this in, or if it's too much in too few days. I will be in Germany for one week before flying home, after travelling in Europe with my boyfriend for 2 weeks. We spend one day in Munich, and the next day he flies home. So I'm thinking on my first day going solo I take a train to Frankfurt, a train to Bacharach in the Rhine Valley where I wander for a couple hours, and an evening boat to St. Goar where I stay the night. Second day visit Rheinefels castle in St. Goar and stay a second night. Third day visit Burg Eltz castle in Mosel Valley and the Marksburg castle in the Rhine Valley. I can stay one night in Braubach. Is this too much in one day? The fourth day, I take a train from Braubach to Frankfurt, a train to Hamburg, and transportation to Lubeck and spend the night in Lubeck. Will I make it there in one day? The fifth day I see the city and stay a second night. The sixth day, I take a train to Hamburg, stay one night, and the next morning I fly home. If anyone can suggest where I can find info on transportation (including from Hamburg to Lubeck) so I can time it out, that would be really helpful. Also, any suggestions would be great!
Ann <email>
Sherman Oaks, CA USA Tue 03/29/2005
How has Europe changed?
I have spent over a year of my life in Europe, and have the greatest of memories from those trips that I took in the 1980's and early 1990's. It has now been nine years...NINE YEARS!!!...since I have been there. That kills me. Anyway, I am going to try to make it back this summer and wanted some input as to the changes to expect. Obviously, the Euro has replaced national currencies, so I know to expect that, but what else can I expect? As an example, when I was in the Azores 20 years ago, it was a beautiful, isolated archipelago with no tourists, no traffic, and farmers riding donkeys to market on cobblestone streets. There were three hotels on the largest island (Sao Miguel), one of which had never opened, rooms were $10 a night, I was all alone at all of the "tourist spots" and everyone stared at me because I was obviously not Azorean. Now, I hear that they have large apartment buildings, high real estate prices and lots of tourists. What else has changed a lot?
Dan
Whidbey Island, WA USA Tue 03/29/2005
Jillian - thanks for asking!!
Jillian - thanks for being brave enough to ask your questions!!! I'm going to the UK in the fall and I weigh 265 and I've been very nervous. My partner is average sized and won't have any problems. We're flying British Airways and they have a seating class called "World Traveler Plus" which is between Economy and Business class and didn't cost that much more if we were willing to lose a small fee if we had to cancel. They have 7 inches more legroom and have wider seats (they take 2 seats out of the width of the plane and use the width with fewer but wider seats. We figured that it would be fun, but I'm also wanting to feel comfortable. There are 4 seating classes in their international flights. We are also flying Ryan Air from Prestwick to London but since it cost us each less than $20 each for the flights (yes....check them out. The tickets were .69 of a pound, about $1.50 and the tax brought it to $20..I digress) that if they woudn't let me on I would just catch a train. One other point about the BA World Traveler Plus (not named for plus sized people). They allow you to have 25 pounds of carry on vs 13 pounds for economy class!! No checked luggage!Since everyone has helped Jillian out for on Paris....how do they feel about large people in the UK?
Kelly <email>
Seattle, Wa USA Tue 03/29/2005
Passports
All hotels in Europe are required to record your passport information. Some will do it when you check in, especially if you insist, and others will ask you to leave it. Unless you frequent pretty sleazy hotels, it is perfectly safe to leave it overnight. It will be waiting for you the next morning. There are other ocassions, mostly at banks, where they will ask to see it. You can of course refuse. And they can refuse to execute your transaction. Be nice to the policeman who will be waiting outside for you. You also will be asked to leave it with the conductor on night trains when crossing into non-EU countries. If you do not, you will be awakened by the border guard.
Charles M. Luther
USA Tue 03/29/2005
THOSE FIRST EUROS
I planned to tell you where the ATM machines are located in the Milan airport, but when I researched it, I found there are no machines in the airports in Italy. You could plan on buying only what you need that night from a cambio in the airport, but they are a scam. I guess your best source of currency is to buy from your bank before you go.
D COUGERESH
ST LOUIS, USA Tue 03/29/2005
Those first Euro
Although I don't recommend buying a lot of Euro to take with you to Europe, I do think it is a wise idea not to be "pennyless" when you arrive. You are not going to be able to avoid paying more for your Euro over here, but you might be able to pay a reasonable rate. Compare the rates with all your local banks. Wells Fargo's rate today was 5% over the interbank rate. In comparison, with fees, you will pay 1-2% over for ATMs and 3-4% over for credit or debit card purchases. So for less than $10 dollars you could have a few 100 Euros in your pocket when you arrive. I consider that cheap insurance. Better yet, find someone who just returned from Europe and convince them to sell ou their leftover Euro at the going rate. Whatever you do, unless you never plan to go back, save a few hundred Euro for your next trip.
Larry <email>
CO USA Tue 03/29/2005
Those first Euros
I will need Euros from the moment my plane lands in Milano. It will be evening, and I will need to pay my bus fare from the airport and then pay cash (I prefer to) for my hotel room. I'll be tired, and want to keep things simple. On this site, people advise taking only ATM cards for immediate use. Question: Where do those first Euros come from? On a previous trip I bought some before leaving from Thomas Cook, but did not compare their price with the market rate. The market rate now hovers around $1.30 = 1 Euro, but T. Cook wants $1.41 for each. I don't want to pay this difference unless I have to, but **I don't want to search the airport in Milano for an ATM in order to be able to board that bus either!** I have a layover in Copenhagen; I could buy Euros there from another agency, but I assume they'd also charge more than the market rate. This question must have a simple and obvious answer --- what is it? Where do those first Euros come from? Thanks for some simple and sensible help!
USA Tue 03/29/2005
Italian train
Ps: Tyler... I (we) would be happy to try to help you if you would just give me an idea of where you are going. In particularly, I will try to help you to figure out trenitalia.com. Post it or email me.
Larry <email>
CO USA Tue 03/29/2005
Italian Trains
Tyler... Don't ask people on this website to give you specific answers to vague questions. Whether a railpass is a better deal than point to point depends on your itinerary (which you haven't given us), but for the most part, in Italy, unless you are being silly, you probably can't make a railpass pay. Distances are short and fares are low. However, do your homework. Get on Trenitalia and figure out how to find fares. Compare them to the cost of a railpass.
Larry
CO USA Tue 03/29/2005
Your favorite Sunday in Rome?
I'll be in Rome on Sunday, May 1, a holiday. Many attractions will be closed. How would you spend a holiday Sunday in Rome? I welcome any suggestions. Thanks!
Shari
USA Tue 03/29/2005
NIGHT TRAINS
HELP! Someone please define the following night train terms: 2 bed compartment, special seat compartment, single seat compartment and double seat compartment. Which of the above names is a private room with a double bed. Do they have access to showers, toilets in the room?
Travlin G' <email>
tx USA Tue 03/29/2005
places to stay
can anybody give me some info on some places to stay in the following cities: Lucerne, Coppenhagen, Stockholm and Oslo. I am looking for anything...within a price budget though. Any help would be great..thanks
jake frederick <email>
minneapolis, mn USA Tue 03/29/2005
Jillian, don't worry, be happy!
Girl, don't let anything or anyone bring you down. I just returned from Paris and saw people of all sizes, shapes, colors, etc. The French are quite polite and aren't going to go out of their way to be rude to you, regardless of your size. It is true that the French are quite thin...they do walk everywhere!
As for the metro, I'd stick near the door so you can hop off when you need to, without having to fight your way through the crowd. That's what I tried to do anyway.
While I'm sure Germany is quite a lovely country to visit (I want to go there at some point as well), there's no comparison to Paris...such a beautiful city. If that's your dream, go for it...Don't worry about waiting, go now if you can! I'm sure it'll be beautiful in October.
Have fun!!!
Brandie <email>
USA Tue 03/29/2005
HOLIDAY CAR SIXT CAR RENTAL
Maria~~~Never is a long time. ~~~ Sorry you had an unpleasant experience in Rome. ~~~ However, I have rented from Sixt in Germany several times and found them excellent...especially in the Stuttgart office ~~~ I presume you know that you can put the charges in dispute with your credit card company.~~~ Refuse to pay and demand that the CC company cancel your charge. Be sure you keep all documents and be prepared to fight. ~~~ I have read about problems like yours on Graffiti Wall and how customers won. It is inconvenient, but worth persisting.
MATHILDA Z.
FLAMINGO, USA Tue 03/29/2005
EURAIL DRIVE AND RAIL EXPERIENCE
Maria..... I have rented a car many times in Europe and always enjoy the freedom it provides. Remember that it is costly to rent and gasoline is expensive; so be sure to get a map and estimate your mileage and your fuel requirements so you can know how much it will cost. Gasoline is reported to be $4 or more a gallon.
Also you should know that the fastest roads in Italy and Switzerland are toll roads while the autobahns in Germany are free. The only experiences I regret in driving over 20,000 miles is in getting lost; I know now that I will always buy a good highway map before I enter any country. You need a good co-pilot to watch for and read signs. I don’t drive much any longer because one can’t appreciate the scenery ; I like to ride the train for that reason.
CARLOS
DALLAS, USA Tue 03/29/2005
Liverpool accomodations
Has anyone ever heard anything about the Ellan Vanning Guest House in Liverpool, or stayed there?
Janice Lawrence <email>
Decatur, GA USA Tue 03/29/2005
Italian trains
I'm trying to decide whether to buy a rail pass or just point-to-point tickets in Italy, and have two questions (but any other advice is appreciated).
1) Do the train lines hit almost every little town? The rail pass might be worth it if I was jumping on several trains in a day, or do you need to take buses etc... to get to all the little towns in an area.
2) Does anyone know what type of deal a Carta Verde (Trenitalia's youth pass) gets you and how much it costs to get a Carta Verde?
Thanks
Tyler
Calgary, AB Canada Tue 03/29/2005
Sleeping cars
Travlin G'... just take comfort in knowing that your firstborn will be well taken care of. Night trains do have promotional fares. They are considerably less, but they are non-refundable. For international trains starting in Italy, when you get that table of fares with the full fare on top, at the bottom will be "Smart fare" and a button to push for the price. With trains inside of Italy, I think you have to push the orange button for other fares and try the bottom buttons. They say "freedom to travel" in Italian and 15, 30, 45, and 60 Euro. If they have compartments, they are probably 45 Euro until they sell out and then 60.
Larry <email>
CO USA Tue 03/29/2005
SLEEPING CARS
The choices I am given are Couchette(this sounds like camp) and compartments. The compartments are called 2 bed compartment, special seat compartment, single seat compartment, and double seat compartment. I want a place where a couple can sleep in privacy and not worry about people stealing while they sleep. But, I don't want to give up my firstborn to pay for it. Thanks
Travlin G' <email>
tx USA Tue 03/29/2005
re: Vaseline
Maybe for blisters? I've never packed Vaseline, but the other toiletries seemed pretty standard. The clothes list, though, did not sound like very light packing to me! :)
Kristin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Tue 03/29/2005
To Linda - Moneybelt and swimming
There is a good option for you that is available from the Magellan's catalog (www.magellans.com). It is called the Splash Caddy. It is a 100% waterproof nylon waistpouch that says it can even protect a camera or film from humidity. The pouch includes 2 leak-proof liners that are certified waterproof to a depth of 60 meters. It's available in 2 sizes (Original- 9 1/2" x 6 1/2", weighs 3 oz., and the waist strap adjusts to 46" and Junior- 7 1/2" x 6", weighs 2 oz., and the waist strap adjusts to 43"). Original costs $19.85, with replacement liners (3) for $7.85. Junior costs $17.85, with relacement liners (3) for $6.85. Magellan's is a great store - I've bought many things from them for travel. Hope this helps. (Wish I'd had a Splash Caddy for a cruise I took last year. I couldn't enjoy swimming on the foreign beaches very much as I had to keep a constant eye on my beach towel where I had put my money under!!)
USA Tue 03/29/2005
SNCF online reservation
Larry & SeattleMom - I am also encountering a glitch on the SNCF site. The French version seems to be working, but on the English version, I can't get past the screen where you initially enter your departure and arrival cities. Anyways, when I purchased our tickets, I chose the "Pay and pickup at a machine". For this option, I gave them my credit card online and selected to pick up our tickets at a machine. The machine would not accept a MasterCard as a valid ID (even though that's the card I used to purchase the tickets). Hence, I just went to a ticket counter, gave the agent the printout from my order and got our tickets. Unfortunately, I cannot comment upon the other methods, having not used them.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 03/29/2005
Flying to Eastern Europe
Our itinerary is still fluid, but we'd like to see Croatia (going as far as Dubrovnik if time permits), Slovenia, and Hungary. I'm hoping to see either Venice or Vienna, but doubt we'll have time unless either is a good hub for us to fly from. I'm flying from WAS and my friend is flying from SFO.
Erica <email>
Washington, DC USA Tue 03/29/2005
Packing List Suggestion
I was reading on Rick's Website the suggested packing list for women and it listed "vaseline (for feet)" Am I just being dumb, why would you need that?
FL USA Tue 03/29/2005
Italian summers
Having traveld in Italy in August... it's not humid it's just really hot. I wore jeans and t-shirts mostly. Tank tops when hanging out with friends in the square. Females in Italy don't wear shorts too often. Mostly when they're at home. I actually felt out of place when wearing shorts outside of my cousins' house, but no one really minds. I hiked all over Rome in khakis and t-shirts or sleeveless shirts. I made sure I wore a t-shirt with sleeves when visiting the Vatican. The men wear shorts or jeans and t-shirts. Take a sweater or light jacket if you're going to spend any evenings in the country, it can be kind of cool at night.
Sarah
PA USA Tue 03/29/2005
Holiday Car Sixt Car Rental
NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER rent a car from Holiday Cars Sixt Car Rental. I reserved a car in Rome for 6 days and needed to make a change. I called and spoke with agents and 2 different supervisors. I sent a fax. I sent an email. And I even tried to call them in Germany (their headquarters for reservations). The US office could do nothing with the reservations. They gave me the email address I received no answer. Called them again and they gave me a different email address - again no answer. Called them again - they gave me a fax number - no answer. Called again - they gave me a phone number - no one answered the phone. At this point I now just want to cancel the car but how since no one answers you. They had already charged my credit card, so now there's a whole new fight I have to go through. I say again to all - NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER RENT FROM HOLIDAY CARS SIXT CAR RENTAL. No cheap rates just aren't worth it!!!!!
Maria
Los Angeles, CA USA Tue 03/29/2005
SNCF online reservation
SeattleMom & Rick... Now that I have gotten around a glitch in the sncf website, I can look at the order process and see what we have been talking about. One page gives you three options, pay and receive by post, pay and pick up at machine or counter, or reserve but pay later. If you don't select "by post", the address fields are not mandatory (*). If you only reserve you get 3 options, pay for and pickup at a machine, pay for and pick up at counter, or "withdraw ticket" from voyages-sncf. Does the third option mean pay online and self print??? Has anybody actually done it this way (Prems offers the chance to self-print, but not through this page).
Larry <email>
CO USA Tue 03/29/2005
Best way to use laptop for phone calls?
because the phone rates in foreign countries are so high, I would like to know the best use to use internet telephony with my laptop. Because some of the vOIP service providers like Vonnage require you to sign a contract and pay a monthly fee, they are less desirable than ones that charge on a call by call basis. Net2Phone is an example of a service provider that charges by the minute. Does anyone have any experience with Net2Phone or any other VOIP providers that charge by the minute?
Jay Senerchia <email>
Westwood, ma USA Tue 03/29/2005
Humidity?
I will be traveling to Italy this August and am trying to figure out what kind of wardrobe to bring. I have been scouting the different weather sites, but have heard that the summes in Europe are not as humid, is there any truth to this?
FL USA Tue 03/29/2005
biking amalfi coast
My wife and I are thinking of biking from Sorento to Positano, we're both in our mid thirties, experienced cyclists and basically wondering if its safe.thanks, mike and molly
mike crehan <email>
san francisco, ca USA Tue 03/29/2005
May 1st in Madrid
We'll be in Madrid for 4 days (April 30 - May 3). Looks like all major sites (Prado, Reina Sofia, Thyssen, Royal Palace, El Escorial) are closed Sunday, May 1st, and most also closed Monday. Any suggestions what to do on those days in Madrid and vicinity?
Julia <email>
CA USA Tue 03/29/2005
Eurail Drive and Rail Experience?
My husband and I were looking into the Eurail Drive and Rail option. We will be going thru several countries but when we go to Germany, we'll be staying with family and thought that having the freedom to drive would be great (We plan to drive down on day trips to Austria and Italy). Has anyone used this option? We have solely used Eurail in the past without driving. Any recommendations? Bad experiences? Thanks!
Maria
GA USA Tue 03/29/2005
Re: Night trains
Yes, it does get confusing, doesn't it. Starting from the most expensive...The Excelsior sleeping cabins are large bedrooms with two beds...they can accommodate a child as well...seven cabins to a car. The Classic Sleepers have 12 cabins to a car. Depending on the makeup of the train, each has space for one (S1), two (D2) or 3 (T3) beds in it. You'll obviously pay more for an S1 than you would for a T3. The Tourist Sleeper cars have 17 cabins per car, and are made up of single-person cabins (T1) and two-person cabins (T2. The Comfort Sleeper carriages have 8 or 9 cabins, each one which makes up into four beds at night...six seats during the day. At least half the cabins are reserved for women only. Then there are the Couchette carriages, which make up into either four-or six-bed units. Again, you can ask for a reservation in a womens' only compartment. The Excelsior class has its own bathroom, while the Classic, and Tourist-Class sleepers have a wash basin in each cabin. As you move up the ladder, the amenities get better, the beds get a little bigger....and the price goes up! Hope that helps.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Tue 03/29/2005
FLYING TO EASTERN EUROPE
Erica; I have flown in E Europe MANY times; so if you tell us what cities you consider, maybe we can help you. There are a lot of discount airlines flying in that area. Give us more information.
WALDO M.
NYC, USA Tue 03/29/2005
ITALIAN TRAINS
Make that cabin (single, double, triple.)
Travlin G'
USA Tue 03/29/2005
NIGHT TRAINS
I don't understand the difference in the sleeping areas on trains. The Tenitalia section gives the options of Couchettes for 4 "comfort"
2 bed compartment
Special Seat Compartment
Single seat compartment
The explanation of sleeping areas uses the terms Sleeper carriage (tourist for 2) and cain (single, double, triple.) What does all of this mean?Thanks,
Travlin G' <email>
USA Tue 03/29/2005
Batobus in Paris.
In reading the 2004 guide book for Paris, Rick stated that the Batobus does not run from November through March, but in looking at their website, it appears to run all year but with shorter times in the winter. Has this changed since the 2004 guide? And have any of you used this method to travel to get around? And what did you think of it? Thanks so much!
Jodie
Denver, CO USA Tue 03/29/2005
Travelers of size
Jillian, you and your husband are going to love Paris! If you search the archives, there was a woman last year (?) who had a similar question, and I remember that when she got back, she posted how glad she was that she went and how kind people were. And there's no weight loss program that's more fun than Europe -- I'm always amazed that I can see great sites while I eat plenty of great food, and still end up 10 pounds lighter (Norm's right about the walking!). Having a trip coming up is a great motivation, but regardless one's shape, Paris is not to be missed!
Kristin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Tue 03/29/2005
Flying to Eastern Europe
Please help!! We want to get to Eastern Europe this May and are weighing whether to fly into London and take easyjet/bmi to Venice, or to fly direct into Vienna/some other hub closer to Eastern Europe. I'm flying out of WAS and my friend will be flying out of SFO. Has anyone seen any good deals?
Erica <email>
Washington, DC USA Tue 03/29/2005
SNCF Online Reservation
SeattleMom - Take a look at a posting I made in November 2004, under Travelers' Helpline Archives, titled "Train Travel in France". That should help. As far as the mandatory address fields, I can't remember if I just filled them in anyways, or if they weren't mandatory once I chose to pick up my tickets in France. Any questions, please write me.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 03/29/2005
Can anyone help us find a B&B in Paris?
Hi there - my husband and I are going to be in Paris this spring and would really love to stay in a centrally located, clean Bed and Breakfast. Can anyone help us with a suggestion of where to stay?
Karla Golden <email>
Highlands Ranch, CO USA Tue 03/29/2005
Scavi and backpacks
Linda - At the office where you collect your tickets, they have a coat/baggage check. That should be mentioned in your confirmation email. I forget the charge, but it was pretty minimal. When we went, we were allowed to keep our daypack and camera bag. Nobody in our group had a backpack, so I couldn't comment as to how strict they were about larger items, such as backpacks. On the tour, it's pretty tight in some places, so you'll be glad that you checked it in.
Rick Manyik <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 03/29/2005
Linda, They have a small office at the Scavi site at the Vatican. Why don't you e-mail them and ask them if they have a place to store your backpack? I have the address if you need it.
Kay
USA Tue 03/29/2005
florence to assisi
we took the train and it was fine, much faster, then the bus up the hill to hotel, ate in the old roman amphitheatre and had a wonderful time, best part of our trip. ps i am originally from williamsport, pa. good luck
linda <email>
ocala, fl USA Tue 03/29/2005
scavi and backpacks
i am going to be doing the scavi under st. peters, and wonder where we can store a backpack? are there provisions elsewhere at the vatican, am not against paying for the privledge. they do not mention what to do with them, only they are not allowed
linda <email>
ocala, fl USA Tue 03/29/2005
Geoff, Several years ago we went to Paris three days before we wanted to take a night train to Venice. We thought that was plenty of time to get reservations. Wrong! We ended up sitting up the whole night because the couchettes were all sold out. This was in March. I suggest getting tickets and reservations for night trains before you go over.
USA Tue 03/29/2005
Ireland B&B'S
Hi, Im looking for a b&b city center in cork city and Dun Laoghaire Any suggestions Thanks Barbara
Barbara <email>
Nanuet, NY USA Tue 03/29/2005
Larry/raileurope
Larry, as an afterthought, why would you want to get ticket from RE anyway? I think Rick Steves still sells passes on his site (but you can't get rail-drive combinations) and he does not have all of the add-on packs that RR has. Check his rail travel section to be sure. Also, if you are going to France and if you are staying a few days someplace before you plan to use the train tickets, and if you are not traveling on a national holiday at the peak travel period, you can deplane and go straight to a ticket office in the air port---DeGaulle and Orly Paris, Toulouse, Nice, nearly anyplace else if you only want point to point.
Geoff
USA Tue 03/29/2005
Julian, I know just how you feel. It is awful to have a weight problem. I will tell you that I weigh 260 pounds and can barely fit into the regular airline seats. They have extenders for the seatbelts, but it is the arm rests that are too narrow for us larger people. Business class would have bigger seats and not be as expensive as First Class. Don't attempt to use "booths" in places to eat as they will be too tight. Metro and bus seats should be fine. I honestly don't think your husband would fit in a regular seat and if he did, it would be a very uncomfortable 8 hours!! Good luck.
USA Mon 03/28/2005
SNCF Online Reservation
I think this is a good time to bring this up. I don't think that all of the tickets shown on sncf as available for online ordering can be self printed. Has anyone else observed that? It also seems that the tickets available for self print are all non refundable? Is that also true?
Larry <email>
CO USA Mon 03/28/2005
SNCF Online Reservation
I think you're going to have to print the ticket. I did that last year and the ticket collector accepted it with no problems.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Mon 03/28/2005
SNCF Online Reservation
How do I bypass the mail to address in the SNCF reservation system? It has mandatory fields for mailing to an address in France. I want to pick up at the train station. Any advice appreciated.
SeattleMom <email>
Seattle, WA USA Mon 03/28/2005
Extended travel
Diana, I just got home from a ten month round-the-world trip. I packed pretty much the same as for a one month trip and bought a few clothes as needed on the road. Mailed the thermal underwear home after Mongolia, replaced my sneakers in Bangkok, junked a couple of tops that wore out. Biggest weight problem is guidebooks - plan to buy those on the way also. My packing list is on my website - www.wilhelmswords.com - or email me if you want more info.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Mon 03/28/2005
Big Girl travel
Jillian- I am a 'big girl' and have traveled all over Europe. I haven't ever worried about it and was often actually grateful not to be hassled like some of the other girls, by assorted men. I love Paris and never have a bit of trouble. There is a lot of walking but take your time and enjoy the sights. One thing though it would be nice if the Airlines would just offer a seat belt extender so you don't have to squeeze into the normal one or ask. feel free to email any questions
Destiny <email>
Park City, Utah USA Mon 03/28/2005
Ireland tips on No Car touring needed
Hello all-Going to Ireland and since it is just me I can't really afford the rental of a car. Anyone went car free? tips?? also any B & B's that have cheap rooms for one?? Also anyone used Paddywagon tours? Thanks :-)
Destiny <email>
Park City, Utah USA Mon 03/28/2005
Train, plane, or
David... looks like there are Thalys connections from Paris through Brussels to Köln, then a train to St. Goar. Takes 5:24 for €106. Or you can go through Saarbrucken in 6:40 for €75. If you are willing to leave Paris Nord at 6 AM for de Gaulle, you can fly Germanwings to Köln/Bonn and take the train from there to St. Goar for about €57, including getting to de Gaulle. That would take about 6:45 if you get to CdG the recommended 2 hours in advance.
Larry <email>
CO USA Mon 03/28/2005
PASSPORTS IN FRANCE..and wherever
Paul....any government can require you to surrender your passport to them for identification purposes...if you don't get it back in a reasonable time, you contact your embassy. Years ago, many countries had hotels hold passports for the first night, so the local police could check on them. In most European countries, this isn't done any more, except during heightened states of alert. But don't panic if they ask at the hotel....it's not illegal, and you'll get it back.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 03/28/2005
RE: Train, plane, or...
David....ever been to London? If not, think about doing it in a day...yes, it can be done with some careful planning. British Airways can fly you out of Paris CDG to London Heathrow for 15 Euros, getting in at 8 am. An hour to get downtown, then out to see the sights. Ryanair will take you from London Stansted to Frankfurt Hahn, which is only about 30 miles from Sankt Goar, at 8 pm, getting in at 10:15 (with the time change), for about 20 pounds. Just an idea......
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 03/28/2005
To Paul n Sara
Thank you for the information regarding the guide in Naples.
Linda
Seattle, WA USA Mon 03/28/2005
passports /hotels
Re Paul and travel to France. Except for the airports and as an id when picking up a rental car, I have never been asked for a passport let alone told to leave it with a hotel clerk. I have never paid in advance or even on a day to day arrangement. Neither do I leave credit card numbers because I pay in cash gotten from an atm usually located just around the corner from wherever I may be. This has been so in Paris and throughout all of France literally from Annecy to Arromanches to Avignon. I cannot think of any instance in which one would leave a passport, or of an honest instance that requires a hotel clerk to ask for one, whatever manufactured for the occasion excuse is given. My prepared response should I be asked is to say that I cannot surrender the passport to anyone except a representative of the U.S. government because the passport is property of the U.S. government, which it is.
Harvey
Chicago, Illinois USA Mon 03/28/2005
Train, plane or...
Getting from Paris to St. Goar (Frankfurt) is the transportation question I'm asking about.Thanks.
David Durbin <email>
McKinleyville, CA USA Mon 03/28/2005
Train, plane, or...
I'm taking two ETBD tours almost back-to-back. The first one ends in Paris on Sept. 24, and the other one begins in St. Goar (out of Frankfurt) on Sept. 27. Any suggestions on a moderately-priced method of transportation, would be greatly appreciated.
David Durbin <email>
McKinleyville, CA USA Mon 03/28/2005
Julian/ your size
Heed what Norm and the other respondant advise. Go to Paris. The French, a French-Canadien journalist wrote, approve of nothing but tolerate everything. As the others say, respect the French point of view and they will love you. To the practical side, you probably will not fit onto a Metro seat and you will likely clog up exits. Perhaps you might stand near the exits so that you can quickly get off to let others exit and very, very, very quickly get back on before being trampled by enterers. Or, ride at off peak times? A major concern for you could be the airlines. Some, when they see you in person, may require you to buy a second seat. The airlines vary a bit on this point, but they seem to all have a provision regarding it. Three years ago, I stood in line behind a woman who faced this issue. She said she cleared it with the reservations clerk when she made her arrangements over the phone. The boarding clerk disputed the point and asked if the traveller had anything in writing. She didn't. Julian, you may need to cover your backside on this point.
Harvey
Chicago, Illinois USA Mon 03/28/2005
Barcelona Hotel Toledano
We will be in Barcelona in June 2005 and plan to stay at the Hotel Toledano. Has anyone had any recent experience at this place?
Kathy <email>
Kennewick, WA USA Mon 03/28/2005
Ireland Car Rental
Hi, Can anyone suggest an Irish car rental company that has reasonable prices for a minivan for 18 days in july. Thanks for any help Barbara
Barbara <email>
Nanuet, , NY USA Mon 03/28/2005
Re: Crossing the Channel
Mike....Check out http://www.aferry.to// They can give you an idea, based on several different ferry lines. If you're concerned they're charging more, you can always go to the actual ferry company site once you find something you like. The Calais-Dover run has many trips per day. There is a route from Caen to Portsmouth, but there are only 3 or 4 a day....the same for Le Havre-Portsmouth.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 03/28/2005
Crossing the Channel
What's the best way to cross the channel to London from around Bayeux or Caen? Planning to spend a couple of days in Normandy - don't think it'd be worth backtracking to Paris for the Eurostar. Thanks!
Mike <email>
Seattle, USA Mon 03/28/2005
Heathrow Subway
Just a reminder for travellers flying into/out of Heathrow's Terminal 4 who plan to take the subway. The station there is being revamped, so it's closed until September of 2006. They have a shuttle bus that takes you to Hatton Cross, the next stop up the line, where you can get aboard the subway for central London. The subway is still available to/from Terminals 1, 2, and 3.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 03/28/2005
Very early arrival
Boy, you aren't kidding! I guess it depends on whether you think you'll get any sleep on the plane. The Heathrow Express and the subway don't start running until just after 5 am. And unless you get a hotel right at the airport (and they're usually pretty expensive), you won't be able to take advantage of the hotel shuttle, because they're usually not running at that hour. Maybe just contact your hotel downtown, ask about dropping your bags, take it slow that first day, and have an early night.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 03/28/2005
Extended travel
We are planning an extended trip in Europe and may be gone as long as a year or ten but want to 'keep it light'. Anyone had this experience - ideas?
Diana <email>
Houston, TX USA Mon 03/28/2005
Heathrow to Luton
What is the most inexpensive way (besides hitch-hiking)to get from Heathrow airport to Luton airport. I am travelling in May and I will have about 8 hours between flights, so I should have time for anything. I believe the train/underground is the best way but I can't seem to find any specific information about it. Thanks in advance for any help you may be able to offer me! Happy travels!
Dave S. <email>
Joliet, IL USA Mon 03/28/2005
very early arrival
Our flight arrives in London at 3:40 am! I have been debating about booking the hotel for the night before...this way we can go straight to the room check in drop off our bags, freshen up and start our trip.
Or should I just leave it and hopefully we will be able to check in early or else leave our luggage at the front desk...and would this be a smart idea...money says take our chances but I wonder if I would regret not bookign the night before....
bluedenim <email>
vancouver, canada Mon 03/28/2005
French Reaction
Jillian-I agree! Go for it. Show consideration and interest in others (common sense). If you don't fly first class you may need to buy an extra seat (I thought the seats were tight when I was skinny.) Make your trip enjoyable by not reading into other peoples reactions a response you fear. And, keep in mind that the French gave us Freedom Fries (smile).
Travlin G' <email>
USA Mon 03/28/2005
Re: Anti-Obesity??
Jillian....go for it! I'm a big guy too, and I've never felt uncomfortable in Paris. Yes, there are more "big" people here in North America than there are in France. But one thing that closer integration has done for the French over the last 30 or 40 years is expose them to people of all kinds....big, small, and in-between. One reason that many European countries have better weight rates than us, is because many of them walk a lot....to the subway, the store, to work. Some reports even say that, in North American cities, people who live "downtown" are healthier because they walk instead of taking the car.
So don't worry about what the French will think of you -- they'll accept you for who you are, not for your size. Be friendly, be interested in the people you meet, and you won't have any trouble. Don't worry about the seats in cafes and the Metro. If I spot something that looks too small, or too flimsy, I just head for another place. That's only happened once or twice, and there's too much to see and do to let that keep me from experiencing it. In the meantime, keep up with the exercise and diet program....walk whenever you can. Not only is it good for your health, it'll help you see all the wonderful sights of Paris when you go in October. It's time to break loose!
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 03/28/2005
Jillian
As a rule, the French are thin. My sister noticed it while we were there this past February, she laughed and said that we were the only overweight people she saw on the whole trip. We had a great time and never felt snubbed. We fit fine in the seats on the buses and the Metro.
Plus, I think your average French person would never want to do anything rude or that would give offense. They were all very nice to us.
And, I dropped a pound or two while I was there. I attribute it to all the walking we did because we really enjoyed the French food especially the pastries!
Sherry
Memphis, USA Mon 03/28/2005
Anti-Obesity??
True confessions. My husband and I are heavy people. Well, honestly, he is about 310 lbs and I am at about 265 lbs. Now that our kids are almost through with university, we are beginning to think about Paris. But it scares us, me especially. We have never gone to Europe before and from what I have heard, French people, and especially Parisians, are very thin. But have any of you ever reached the point where you are tired of putting your life on hold? That is where I am and at right now and I am getting tired of feeling I need to apologize for my size to people. My sister, who is tall and thin and used to be a model, suggested that we should go to Germany instead because we wouldn't stand out so much, but we want to go to Paris. And let's not even get into my sister's and my relationship. Completely wrong web site for that. So, since many of you have been there and know the ropes, can you offer any insights for the heavier traveller, and also, let me know the following? will we be mocked by the french? Can we fit into seats in cafes? And the metro seats? We are currently on a program for exercise and weight loss with our physician, but I doubt that either of us will be able to lose 100 lbs before October when we would like to go over there. If I sound a bit desperate, it is only because I am. Thanks for your help.
Jillian
Princeton, NJ USA Mon 03/28/2005
MIDICINES IN EUROPE
Lauren~~~~My wife and I take vitamins and medication with us without problem any where in the world.~~~~ Security people can tell by looking through the zip lock bag what is inside.~~~~ We also use a pill dispenser.~~~~ Don’t worry about it.
DIWEALK
DETROIT, USA Mon 03/28/2005
Securing luggage in Italy overnight train
I have heard overnight trains are more prone to thefts. Any idea how to secure bags in a couchette?
Samy
San Jose, CA USA Mon 03/28/2005
Experiencing FASHION in Milan
We have about 5 days to spend in Italy in June. Our 16-year old daughter's career goal is to work in the fashion industry. I'm looking for suggestions that might help us get a feel for the high-fashion aspect of Milan. It there a street? center? area? museum? we should be planning to see?
Kathy <email>
Adelphi, MD USA Mon 03/28/2005
Agenda for Italy
Linda- sounds great! I also decided that the only schedule I must stick to is catching my plane in Rome. If we feel too rushed we can slow down. Thanks so much to everyone for clarifying some points for me!
Travlin G' <email>
Tyler, TX USA Mon 03/28/2005
OTC meds
Lauren--I find bottles that are close to the correct amount for the number of days I'll be gone, then throw in a couple of extra (in case I lose one!) Then when I'm returning home I throw out the bottles and have only the correct amount in my weekly pill case. Haven't had any problems with entering the US.
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Mon 03/28/2005
Travelin' G Italy trip
Sounds good although I would stay in Flo the whole time you are in Tuscany, just to eliminate the hassle of checking in again, schlepping bags, etc, PLUS the train from Flo to Rome is only 2 hours (Eurostar) no trancfers, and from Siena it is not as easy to get to Rome. There are trains and buses every hour (take the bus; easier to get to the pickup point in Siena) to Siena and to San G. What do you think of that? Linda
Linda <email>
PA USA Mon 03/28/2005
forum advice
Be cautious using hotel advice from the forums;unsavory hotel managements readily put a plug in for a not so sweet deal! Check Rick Steves against other well-known advisors such as Frommers for more correct information
Clare Reed <email>
Texarkana, TX USA Mon 03/28/2005
Lauren, I have taken many trips to Europe with baggies of vitamins. I have taken them in my carry on with no problems at all and many times I have been "searched".
USA Mon 03/28/2005
Lauren
I take a variety of OTC vitamins, etc with me in individual baggies. I write on the outside of the bag what is inside. I've never been questioned about it. I figure if they want to confiscate the whole lot, I won't be out too much. An alternative would be to wait and buy the stuff in Europe. They probably have everything you need there. For me, it is a question of convenience and carrying ("pack light") only what I need.
USA Mon 03/28/2005
Medicines in Europe
If I take vitamins and tums, etc. (Things not requiring a doctor) do I have to keep them in there original bottles? Can I transfer them to bags or a pill dispenser? Anyone know the rules? We will be all over Europe.
Lauren <email>
Locust Grove, GA USA Mon 03/28/2005
Re: Italian Train Schedules
Larry, in the previous post, noted something most overlook. In a push for speed, most assume that the Eurostar trains are the fastest from point A to B. True, but on shorter trips, 3 hours or so, they are maybe a half hour quicker, in most cases, than hopping regional trains, or Intercity. We save quite a bit just by choosing R and IC trains that were much cheaper to begin with, and did not require a reservation or supplement. Also, never did we worry about not getting on a train because the seats were full.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 03/28/2005
SEEING & DOING EVERYTHING
I want to taste a little bit of all the deserts. We may never get back to Italy and I want to experience the country from every aspect. BUT I want to avoid racing from one spot to the next. We actually have six extra days oon one day we fly in, pm amptjer we fly out and for 3 days we visit friends in Milan.
What about this schedule. Don't hesitate, as you have in the past, to knock me off my bubble. We arrive venice early Monday morning, spend the night, enjoy it all day and into the evening and take a 24:00 EN train with cabin to Genoa then to Monterosso. With the morning before us we can hike, eat take pictures and whatever seems fun. Then go to our hotel at the established check in time and take a Siesta! More of the same the next day. Relaxing, beautiful...away from work...no cell phone.
On the last train to florence the next day we leave for florence to stay two days and two nights. Then early afternoon to Siena spend the night then see San Gimignano abd head for Rome. In Rome we want to take RS' ROME In A Day - some may know it by its original name, "she just went that way." This trip will not allow us to see all of Venice, Florence, Rome, Tuskany or CT but I can have little tastes of each? Ijay" Hit me with all you have.
Travlin G' <email>
USA Sun 03/27/2005
Need help finding hostles
My best friend and I are going to europe this summer for 2 months and we have lots of options for hostels etc. but some places we still need help on are: Barcelona, Venice, Milan and Marseille. If anyone at all has any help for us or can recomend a good place please e-mail me with the web site or any info! Thanks so much!
Marine R. <email>
Bellingham, WA USA Sun 03/27/2005
MAKING HOTEL RESERVATIONS
Patti: Do not make all your reservations before you go. You might want to reserve your first night. I never do and I have traveled every European country many times without reservations. You can always find a room where you want it. Reserving in advance prevents changing your itinerary.
ARNOLD M. W.
CHICAGO, USA Sun 03/27/2005
TRAVELIN G
I AGREE WITH PAUL below. CT deserves two or three full days. Otherwise, omit it from your trip. Travel by train always takes more time than you think it will because you wait on trains to arrive and some do not arrive at your destination on time; so you should leave a lot of extra time.
MANDY C.
NYC, USA Sun 03/27/2005
Italian train schedules
Shari... You're right, ES is Eurostar, IC is Intercity. ICN is Intercity Night; R is a regional train - lots of stops, more time, less expensive. What would I recommend; depends on how much you want to spend. Eurostar is faster but costs more. Look at the schedules and figure out how long each train takes and costs. For a three hour trip, you might not save enough on an express (ES, IC) to warrent the cost. On a regional I might be more inclined to use 1st cl.
Larry <email>
CO USA Sun 03/27/2005
help decoding Italian train schedules
I'm confused by the letters after routes in Italian train schedules. Most of the routes I'm looking at are marked with capital R. Do you know what that means? I'm assuming IC is intercity and ES is Eurostar. But do you know what ICN is? Any translations or suggestions welcomed. And which type of train would you recommend for short (~3 hour) routes. Thanks.
Shari
San Jose, CA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Road travel through the Pyrenees
We are driving from Pergignon, France to Barcelona in late September through the Pyrenees by way of Prades and Puigcerda. Are the roads through the Pyrenees narrow and winding (hairy) or fairly decent? Any comments or experiences would be appreciated.Ken Thompson
USA Sun 03/27/2005
Re: Travelin G
I am aggressive on my itineraries, but even I say your cramming too much in. One major problem is distance, particulary to the Cinque Terre. With one night, getting there late, and leaving early the next day, you will not appreciate the CT. Hate to say it, but leave it out. What is workable? For 8 days, and not knowing whether your fly in and out days are included, I would say two nights with an uninterupted day in Venice, then to Siena for three nights. From there, you have a base to day trip into Florence one day, then to San G. the next, with afternoons and evenings to explore Siena. This saves you wasting time traveling and "doing business" when you could be touring. Then, on to Rome for the balance of the time. This is a fast, but not crazy pace, and will allow you to see alot with a minimum of travel time and hotel changes.
Paul <email>
IA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Pisa accommodation
FOR SUSIE: http://www.pisaonline.it/HOTELMILANO/Fifty yards from rail station and one mile from airport.
Graham <email>
Wales Sun 03/27/2005
historic walk
for rick steve's historic walk.. it generally says to start it in the morning.. what if it was started at 1pm.. does it matter?
dan quach <email>
westminster, ca USA Sun 03/27/2005
Assisi
violet-the train works well to Assisi, but I'd recommend a cab from the station to the town (up on the hill);avoid the basilica the first afternoon, but be there at the opening the next morning; it is quiet and magical at that time rather than loud and obnoxious (as it can be the rest of the day)
anthony caliendo <email>
denver, co USA Sun 03/27/2005
Ambitious journey
TravlinG-OK, I was shoving it all together, just to make it work!2 nights in Venice; early train to the Cinque Terre, 1 night there; early train to Firenze, hit the Accademia, Bargello, Uffizi in the afternoon, spend the night in Firenze; up early to Siena, day and night there, bag San Gigimgnano, then to Roma; you need more time!!!!!!!We're on our way back to Italy for the 5th time, and we're spending a week in Rome!!!! And we don't care about Ancient Rome, we're just seeing the Churches, Museums, and eating the food!
anthony caliendo <email>
denver, co USA Sun 03/27/2005
Making hotel reservations
My husband and I are planning a trip to France the end of Aug/Sept 2005. Do I need to make all hotel reservations before we arrive? I think that I need to make them for Paris but we are planning on renting a car outside Paris to do some touring and I'm not sure how our travels will take us. We never had any problems in England or Germany but we are not very confident in France. Help!
Patti <email>
Maple Valley, WA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Driving in France
My wife and I will be leaving for Paris on April 21st. Spend two nights in Paris, then have rented a car for 6 days. Then back to Paris on the 7th day, then Chunnel to London. We still do not know where we should drive within France. A lot of different well meaning suggestions. Does anyone have some great ideas? Thanks
Bill Carpenter <email>
San Diego, CA USA Sun 03/27/2005
B & B FARMS
Found two great sites for B&B's in France and England: farmstay.co.uk and gites-de-france.fr/fr/index.htm these are for both working and non-working farms and other nice places,check it out. Seem to have great rates.
Bob <email>
USA Sun 03/27/2005
Barcelona Hotel
Liv Miller Houston, TXCheck into the HCC Montblanc, you can check availability at on-line-bookings.co.uk. It's a nice hotel in the Gothic district but very close to buses, walking distance to many sites and just a couple blocks from the La Rambla. We stayed here for 4 nights, didn't have a problem.
Carol J <email>
Federal Way, WA USA Sun 03/27/2005
The Alhambra
Judy, The Alhambra in Granada Trip,We took a bus from Nerja to Granada. It was easier than driving a car. This way you won't spend your time looking for the drop off point in Granada and wasting your time for checkout. Then take a taxi to your hotel. We bought our tickets on-line, easy and you don't have to wait in the long lines at the Alhambra. I don't know how much time you have in Granada, but it will take you a full day to see everything at the Alhambra. Purchase tickets on line at www.alhambratickets.com. Good luck
Carol Jacobson <email>
Federal Way, WA USA Sun 03/27/2005
gifts from Paris
Jeff~~~try Bon Marche, lower level, for soaps. Mustard is a good value and there is a store brand called Amor that is cheap and very good. There is also a mustard store where you select your container and they fill it for you.
MC
USA Sun 03/27/2005
Italy
Travelen G~~~One night in Rome is not enough. You could consider cutting a day in Florence and stay longer in Rome. Also one night in Siena may be enough. Good luck--you will have a great time regardless!
RJ
USA Sun 03/27/2005
Travel to Giverny/Versailles
Givery is near the town of Vernon, which is on the railway lines. You can take a train from St. Lazare train station in Paris, then catch a cab to travel the 3 or 4 miles to Giverny. The cab should cost about 13-15 Euro each way, and the train is about 20 Euro one-way, if I remember corretly. Two years ago, they had local buses timed to meet the incoming trains, but I don't know if that's still on. That was less than 4 Euros, round trip.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 03/27/2005
Travelin G
My husband and I are taking our first trip to Italy from April 1-12. We had a HUGE itinerary at first too. I had a phone consult with Reid from Rick's office and he helped ALOT! Here is our plan...hope it helps. Arrive in Rome AM of April 2. Rome for rest of 4/2, 4/3 and 4/4. Montepulciano for the day on the way to Florence on 4/5. Night of 4/5 in Florence and also 4/6. 4/7 and 4/8 in Monterosso (CT). Train the Venice AM of 4/9 (5 1/2 hour ride). Vencie PM of 4/9, all 4/10 and 4/11. Fly out of Venice at 12 PM on 4/12. The time you spend in each city depends upone what you want to see. We are just doing the "basics" for sightseeing. The one tip Reid gave to think about is travel time, and time spent checking in and out of hotels. Just tell yourselves that you will come back! Hope this helps.
USA Sun 03/27/2005
Too Ambitious?
And I thought I was leaving out too much! Realistically then-With Venice, CT, Florence, Siena, San G and Rome-what can we leave out? I thought 1 1/2 day & 1 night in Venice, 2 day 1 night CT, 3 nights Florence, Siena, San G, then to Rome for day and night. Suggested changes Please.
Travlin G' <email>
Tyler, TX USA Sun 03/27/2005
Pisa accomodation
I have to catch a morning flight on Ryan Air from Pisa airport. Can anyone recommend an inexpensive B&B or hotel where I could stay that would be close to train station or airport?Thanks Susie
Susie
USA Sun 03/27/2005
Paris, The scented soaps mentioned make really neat gifts and they are usually packed in nice paper. I have also enjoyed several inexpensive tote type bags I bought from street vendors. One was black and had pink roses and everytime I use it someone wants to know where I got it!! I think it was around $10. The gift shops also have really cute Christmas ornaments (year round) of the Eiffel tower, Notre Dam, etc. Shot glasses are good for those who drink! Have a great trip.
USA Sun 03/27/2005
Paris gifts
Somewhere on one of the other graffiti boards, I saw a suggestion to buy French soaps in the grocery store. You can get 6 small ones for about $2 (much cheaper than L'Occitane!), or large ones for $2-$3 each. They're really nice (shea butter, etc.)-- My friends loved them, and loved picking theirs out from the different ones I brought back.
Kristin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Inexpensive gifts in Paris
Scarves are a great little something for women. You can buy them in clothing or souvenir shops for $10 or less, easily. Every woman in Paris wears a scarf!
For the ultra-cheap, go to the Eiffel Tower and bargain down vendors on key chains. (Featuring - what else? - the Eiffel Tower)
Rebecca Cooper <email>
New Brunswick, NJ USA Sun 03/27/2005
Versailles
Versailles: The Hall of Mirrors is being refurbished, but a section is left open to give a feel for how it would normally look. This was as of Wednesday, March 23, 2005.
Rebecca Cooper <email>
New Brunswick, NJ USA Sun 03/27/2005
Inexpensive gifts in Paris
I'm heading to Paris soon. Many of my friends and co-workers want me to bring them a "little something." So far I have commited to bring gifts back for about 7 women and 3 men friends. Ages range fom about 30 to 60. I don't want to spend more than about $10 USD apiece. What do you paris hands recommend and where can I buy these gifts?thanks.
Jeff Wilson <email>
Plcerville, CA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Versailles
Take the RER C-7 line. Cost about 6.30 Euro round trip.
Jeff Wilson <email>
Placerville, CA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Travel to Giverney
To get to Giverney, take the train to Vernon. It leaves from Gare St. Lazare. Buy tickets at the "Normandy" ticket counter for 22.20 Euro round trip. Once you get to Vernon, there are several ways to get to Giverney, a bus, rent a bicycle, walk, or take a taxi. If you are a hiker, there is a delightful hike of about 2 hours along the bluffs from Vernon to Giverney. Or there is a nice level stroll along a "rails to trails" paved walkway. To get to either walk, go straight after crossing the bridge. Go past the main road to Giverney, Watch for what looks like an alley behind some houses on your right. Take it to Giverney. The hike route is a bit confusing without a Topo map. Buy the Serie Bleue "Vernon" map, #2113 "O"Trains leave St. Lazare at 6:30, 6:45, 8:15, 11:00 and about every hour after that. The train takes about an hour. Returns to Paris run about every half hour until 9:20pm.
If you are interested in the hike, send me a private email and I'll send you an 8X10 map via an attachment.
Jeff Wilson <email>
Placerville, CA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Restaurant Suggestions Porte D'Italie
We wish to sample nice family neighborhood restaurants in the Porte D'Italie area and along the Metro Line #7, PC1, and RATP 125
Don Hayes <email>
Hammond, LA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Travel to Giverny/Versailles
We are in Porte D'Italie and wish suggestions for traveling economically to Giverny and on a different day Versailles.We will be there tween April6 and April 11, 2005
Don Hayes <email>
Hammond, LA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Antwerp
Need some suggestions on things to do and see in Antwerp. We will have one day there. Is it easy to walk from the central train station to the cathedral and other sights? Is the diamond museum worth it? What else is there to see?
Becky
USA Sun 03/27/2005
transportation from Florence to Assisi
Has anyone taken a bus or train from Florence for an overnight in Assisi? Is it better (faster, more convenient) to go by bus or train?Thanks
Violet Gallagher <email>
Lewisburg, PA USA Sun 03/27/2005
The Alhambra, Granada Spain
We are going to Spain and I'm trying to plan a daytrip from Nerja to Granada. I'm not really sure how these ticket times work. It is about a 2 hr drive from Nerja...it sounds like if I buy the tickets for 2pm or after the times are very strictly inforced. Should I buy tickets online now or what until I am in Spain and buy them at a BBVA bank once in Spain. Can anyone help me plan our vist in the Alhambra and how I should plan the time to vist?
Judy
USA Sun 03/27/2005
Posting boxes to Italy
I almost forgot. How long it takes also depends on whether you ship ground or air. I always ship air. Ground takes 4 to 6 weeks.
Sarah <email>
PA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Posting boxes to Italy
I have family in Italy to which I have sent many boxes (even larger than "apple box" size). There have never been any problems with the packages when they arrived. What I do is wrap the box in brown paper and mark the address and return on addresses on them clearly. The post office will have you fill out a customs form with the addresses on them, too, which is also put on the package. As for being slow, depending on how the big the boxes are, my packages have arrived at their destination in 1 to 2 weeks.
Sarah <email>
PA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Ambitious journey
TravlinG-That's a particularly ambitious itinerary, and you'll spend more time getting to places than seeing them!Fly into Venice, spend 2 nights, then early AM train to Florence. See all you can see in a day, take an evening train to the CT; sleep there, spend a day and night there; early AM train back to Florence, see what you can, and sleep there; early AM bus to Siena or San Gimignano, spend one night in each. Then, on to Rome!
anthony caliendo <email>
denver, co USA Sun 03/27/2005
Barcelona Hotel
Can you please help me find a hotel in Barcelona that is not to expensive, but still comfortable and in a convenient location?
Liv Miller Cowart <email>
Houston, TX USA Sun 03/27/2005
Re: ANDORRA!!!
No train stations or airports in Andorra....too small and mountainous. Bus is the easiest way. There are a couple of services from Barcelona's bus station and its airports (2 2/1 to 3 hrs). Heading into France, the main destination is Toulouse. To get to Perpignan, you can take the bus back to Girona (the airport several of the discount airlines use for Barcelona), then take a 90 minute train ride to Perpignan. However, the last train to Perpignan leaves around 6 pm, so you may not have enough time. It may be easier to head for Toulouse if you can find a late train back to Perpignan. Check out www.andorra.ad/ang/home/index.htm for more info.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 03/27/2005
Not crazy!
In fact, Nikki, if both pairs of sandals are cute and comfy I'd leave one behind. Just as long as you don't mind your feet getting wet if it rains -- which it probably will at some point during a week in London... I find that with a cool and comfy skirt, I rarely wear the pants - one pair suffices, 2 capris are plenty! I'd bring the jacket -- you're going early in the summer and are likely to get a shower or two...
Kristin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Sun 03/27/2005
Am I crazy??
I am going to Europe for three weeks, June 13- July 2. We are spending one week each in London, Paris, and Rome. I have done this trip before and learned to pack light. I am planning on taking 3 skirts, 2 pairs of capris, 4 t-shirts, 1 long sleeve shirt, 2 pairs of very comfortable sandals and one light weight jacket in case of rain.My questions are: 1. Am I crazy to travel without a pair of pants? 2. Am I crazy to travel without a pair of shoes? 3. Would I be able to get away without bringing the jacket?Last time we went it was very hot so I never wore my shoes, jeans, or the jacket. I don't know if I want to chance it or not. Anyone have some words of wisdom? Thanks!
Nikki <email>
Spokane, WA USA Sat 03/26/2005
Agenda for Italy
We plan to visit Vince, Cinque Terre, Florence, Siena, San Gimignano and only 1 day and night in Rome. With only 8 days to see all of this what is the best way to go without backtracking a lot. (Is that possible) In what order do you suggest we plan these stops?
Travlin G' <email>
Tyler, TX USA Sat 03/26/2005
TGV Questions
From Paris to Avignon traveling straight from flight with a 3 and 5 year old. How does boarding on the TGV at CDG work. Is there a long, organized train boarding or is it a free for all with a quick turnover from arrival/departure. Also not clear after searching the site on what happens with our luggage, is it checked, kept with us. We will be travelling with two maximum size suitcases. Will these be stowed elsewhere on the train? Are there security issues?
<email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 03/26/2005
RE: Dolomites
In the Dolomites section of Rick's Italy book he describes several hikes of different lengths and difficulties, including how to access them via chairlifts, etc. His directions were great, and we found his descriptions of length, time, and difficulty to be accurate (at least for a couple of 30-yr-olds, in average shape and avid hikers).
Kristin <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Sat 03/26/2005
Posting a box to Italy - how safe?
Has anyone had experience posting a box (average "box-of-apples" size) to (northern) Italy? I need to mail some winter clothing and (at book rate) some books, in 4-6 boxes. All for personal use. Chief concern is, Will they eventually arrive, safe and unrifled? I know it will be slow, but is it safe? Any knowledgeable suggestions appreciated (US Post office personnel seem to have no info. about security on the Italian side of the transmission).
USA Sat 03/26/2005
K-D schedule
The English language side of the KD website is apparently "under construction". From the home page, go to "Schiffstouren", "Linienfahrten". Then the schedule is on "Fahrplan Rhein". The fares are on "Fahrpreise".
Larry <