Graffiti Wall: Travelers' Helpline

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Travelers' Helpline: November 2005

All together, the community of Rick Steves' travelers has a wealth of European travel experience. This is your chance to help or be helped. If you've got a question about traveling in Europe, we think there's another traveler out there with an answer...

These posted responses are from the traveling public and are not supplied by Europe Through the Back Door staff members unless specifically noted.

SPANISH CHIC HOSTELS
If you are looking for places to stay in Spain these websites might be helpful: www.chicandbasic.com www.barcelonabb.com www.likeathome.net www.gataccomodation.com www.hostaldomus.com www.casasolyluna1.com
Claudia
Peru Wed 11/30/2005

Jacket for December
I'm going to various cities in Europe in December for three weeks. I'll be in a variety of locations (Brussels, Paris, Florence, Venice, Rome, London). Should I take a fleece jacket with my waterproof REI rain jacket, or a more fashionable cream colored pea coat? I am thinking maybe of the pea coat (it isn't all that warm, but I'll layer up) and the rain coat, since it takes up virtually no room. But the fleece would be nice for Italy where it will be fairly warm (at least compared to here) with a smaller chance of rain. Oh, and we stay pretty casual with our dinners, activities, etc. The fanciest thing we would do is going to a play in London. Any advice is appreciated....thanks!
Amy
Spokane, WA USA Wed 11/30/2005

German Trains
Paul: It is very easy to get around on the DB. When you get off a train, check the train schedule for the next time the train goes to your destination. If they run frequently enough for you, store your things in a locker and walk around the city/town you're in and then get back on a later train.

Also, check out the Deutschbahn website. You can put in point-to-point destinations and compare the price against a eurailpass. (Keep in mind that the prices given are not for regional tickets which are much cheaper.) Also, the website will give you train schedules between points.

I just returned from Germany and used only point-to-point tickets for 5 train days. I travelled mostly within one region, so used regional (Lander) tickets. Total cost for all my train travel, including 2 ICE's, was $150 US. Of course, the trains aren't as spiffy as the ICE's, but they were clean and on time and I got to see a lot of small towns that most people don't usually travel to. PS: I purchased all my train tickets from the ticket counter...
Lisa
USA Wed 11/30/2005

Birth Control
I'll second Stephanie's comments about BC pills, I've been to Ireland and Italy (two of the most Catholic countries) and never even been asked about them.
USA Wed 11/30/2005

4 for the 7th! Help!
Are there any recommendations for a 2-3 star hotel and/or B&B in the 7th Arr., Paris that will sleep 4 people in 1 room? Close to Rue Cler preferable, but 7th Arr. is a must.

Help!
Mark E. <email>
Baltimore, MD USA Wed 11/30/2005

Re: Birth Control Pills
I have been to Europe twice, taking my BCP in the container that they come in with the pharma label on them...and I've never even been asked to show/etc., them.
Stephanie
Columbus, OH USA Wed 11/30/2005

Birth control pills
Can you take birth control pills with you to Europe without a doctor's perscription, or should I get a copy of one just in case? Thanks!
USA Wed 11/30/2005

ZARA AND MANGO OUTLETS
If you are travelling to Europe, go to the Zara and Mango Outlets and you will DEFINATELY find GREAT BARGAINS. I know of a Zara-Mango Outlets in Barcelona and Bilbao. The MNG Barcelona Outlet is on Girona Street.
Claudia <email>
Peru Wed 11/30/2005

convents
But certainly, there are active convents in Paris and throughout France that accept guests. One such spectacular place is at Obernai, Alsace, called Mont Ste Odile. One should not doubt because one does not know.
USA Wed 11/30/2005

Low cost airlines in Turkey?
I am planning to do some domestic air travel within Turkey and it seems like the prices for Onur Air and Atlasjet are much lower than Turkish Air. Does it matter whether you book in advance? Or is the price the same if you show up at the airport and buy tickets? I'm concerned about buying tickets for a specific date and time too far in advance and then having to structure our plans around getting to the airport to make that particular flight. I'd much prefer the flexibility of getting the tickets on the spot or a day or so at most in advance, but I'm worried about whether the cheap seats require greater advance purchase as in the US.
JER
USA Wed 11/30/2005

CONVENTS IN PARIS
Cathleen: According to travelforum.com it doesn’t sound possible.

QUESTION: I understand that religious orders offer guest house accomodations. Has anyone any knowledge of any of these in Paris? Or Madrid?

The information I have been able to gather online is mostly about Italy.

ANSWER: I don't know of any in Paris or Madrid, and doubt there is such a thing. Generally religious houses in France only offer accommodation to genuine pilgrims and church groups, not tourists.
A.Z.ZINGO
NYC, USA Wed 11/30/2005

Language schools in Italy
Here is a website for schools that was recommended to me. I also am looking into schools in Italy - want to immerse myself in the language and culture! (I'm no young chicken either!)

Also, Berlitz here in the US offers a pretty good course, but then, it's not in Italy!

http://www.transitionsabroad.com/listings/study/language/italy.shtml
<email>
USA Wed 11/30/2005

Best Italian Language School
After six trips to Italy, I have decided to attend language school in Italy in 2006. I'm looking at attending a two-weeks course in either Venice or Viaraggio. Any recommendations based on your personal experience? I'm well out of the normal college age category--think "senior citizen."
Swan
USA Wed 11/30/2005

convents/monasteries in Paris, France
Do you know of any convent/monastery in Paris that has accomodations for travellers? Cathleen
cathleen schickel <email>
Ithaca, New York USA Wed 11/30/2005

Venice - Giudecca
Local wine bars and restaurants on Giudecca..... any recommendations.
Larry <email>
CA USA Tue 11/29/2005

re: prices for Zara and Mango
Ismay-- I don't know if they're the same throughout Europe, but they were definitely much cheaper in Europe than in the US (so probably Canada too)-- though maybe not anymore now, with the weak US and Canadian dollars. C&A (similar to H&M) sometimes has good buys too.
USA Tue 11/29/2005

London Eye
Tickets for the London Eye are for a specific time and date. You may purchase tickets ahead of time, and select a specific time. There is no longer a problem with long lines, so you may purchase a ticket shortly before you embark.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Tue 11/29/2005

London Eye
I'm going to London in a couple of weeks and would like to take a ride on the London Eye at night. Can I buy a ticket ahead of time and then just use it at night, or do they have reservations? Thanks!
Nicole
USA Tue 11/29/2005

WHAT TO WEAR IN BCN
I just came back from Barcelona (BCN) two days ago. The weather now is a bit chilly and it has been raining quite a bit. Shorts are OK during the summer time, although you will definately stand out as a tourist. Although BCN is a sea side city, it does not have that port-feeling as other cities do. However, if you want the beach setting, I would strongly recomend Sitges, only a few minutes a way by train, close enough to come and go each day.
Claudia <email>
Lima, Peru Tue 11/29/2005

Best prices for Zara and Mango?
Does anyone know if Zara and Mango offer better prices in certain countries? Is it the same throughout Europe? Are the prices the same as Canada? Any other suggestions for reasonably priced shopping?

Thanks, Ismay
Ismay <email>
Fredericton, NB Canada Tue 11/29/2005

LL Bean look--JC Penney look
When we were in Italy in 2004, my husband definitely did not blend in with his permanent press shirts from JC Penney. I didn't either--I just can't wear those fashionable Italian shoes. Neither did the beautiful tourist from Bangladesh with her sari. My philosophy is just try to look nice and show respect......Don't be like the ugly American I saw with zip-off pants demanding to be seated in a restaurant.
Karen <email>
MN USA Tue 11/29/2005

One day in London
Something you may consider is a hop-on/hop-off bus. It's great for getting you to all the main sites and will drop you off near most of the sites that were recommended by the other posters. When you buy the ticket, you should get a little map of the route and sites nearby. If you have RS's London book, one of the company's will give you a discount. I think they are all pretty much the same, but make sure you get a live-person commentator, not a recording with headphones. Also, I seem to recall that some come with discounted or free Thames river cruises, but not sure how this would work in January. London is chilly, dress warmly (one advantage of staying on the tour bus... it will get you out of the cold). You'll find lots of London souvenirs on Oxford Street. Have Fun!
Sheila
Seattle, WA USA Tue 11/29/2005

Megan~~yes your university phote ID will work. That is what my daughter used when she went over.
USA Mon 11/28/2005

One day in London
Ellen~~I would agree with Paul regarding the sights you should see. For shopping Kings Road and Kensington High Street both have fun shops. To get to Kings Road take the tube to Sloane Square, Kensington High Street take tube to Kensington High Street. If going to Covent Garden you could eat dinner there then on the the theater. Theaters just a couple of blocks from Covent Garden.I would suggest in the evening going to the theater. The Lion King is fantastic, have seen it three times in London and will go again next trip.
London
Ohio USA Mon 11/28/2005

Valerie: Re Turkish visa
You can get the visa at the airport once you arrive--everyone does, it's not at all a problem. You will need to have US cash or euros though. Check before you go for the exact amount needed. Last I checked it was 20 dollars, but it has been much higher at times in the past.
JER
USA Mon 11/28/2005

one day in london
ok one day in London... you arrive early so drop your bags at the hotel and find out what time you can check in. Then do Whitall, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckinham Palace. Def worth to see. Then I say head for St. Paul's Cathedral I don't think you should miss that. Then depending on when you can check in ect I would say hit your room freshen up. Then do oxford st shopping. Its not high end shopping like Kensington and when we were there got some great deals. then hit soho, which is close, and walking distance. do covenent Garden and go for dinner in this area.
Paul
USA Mon 11/28/2005

One Day in London
OK, it's offical, I have one day in London to play. I arrive at 6AM on Jan 5. I'm staying at the Kensington Hilton. I'd like to see a few sights, and shop a bit for unique "London" stuff. Not a big spender, but would like to bring home a few UK things. Fashion or shoes, or food!

Can any one recommend some sights or cool shopping that are close to the hotel, i.e. walking distance, or easily accessable via the Tube. I've checked in the London Eye, and it might still be up and running that day - but I'm not sure how far it would be from my hotel.

I'll be totally on my own this day.

Love to hear some suggestions !
Ellen <email>
CO USA Mon 11/28/2005

student traveler
I am going to Ireland in late December and several of the sights I want to go to offer cheaper admissions for students. Do I need a International Student ID card to get this, or will most places accept my university picture ID? Thanks for your help!
megan <email>
WI USA Mon 11/28/2005

Turkish Visa
I am planning a trip to Turkey at the end of January. Should I obtain my visa before leaving the US or wait to get one upon arrival in Turkey? My concern is that to get the visa ahead of time, I have to mail in my passport to the nearest consulate. I am always uncomfortable when my passport is out of my possession. At the same time, I don't want to experience any problems or unnecessary delays upon arrival. Recommendations? Thanks.
Valerie
Hampton, IA USA Mon 11/28/2005

Sandee/train travel
A caution for you. Now that Tim (see below) has identified Lemieul as Limeuil, be aware that there are two such place names in France. One is in the Loire Country south of Chinon and the other is in the Dordogne south of Limoges. There are also two place names Saumur in the areas you will visit. Things could be worse. There are 18 St. Remy.
Harvey
ILL USA Mon 11/28/2005

Breakfast in Berlin
In response to Steve who asked about Berlin hotel and breakfasts. Stayed at Unter den Linden - great location, great rooms and wonderful breakfast all included. Enjoy your stay.
sabrina
Charleston, SC USA Mon 11/28/2005

Perigueux to Limeuil
According to the official tourist information site, the closest SNCF stations to Limeuil (correct spelling)are at Le Bugue and Le Buisson. There is service from Perigueux.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 11/28/2005

what to wear in barcelona
What do people wear in Barcelona? I know shorts are find on the beach but what about in the city?
paul
USA Mon 11/28/2005

Long range forecast
Dear weather,

The weather in Europe during your trip 9 months from now will be great. Several days will be better then others. On several days, the weather will be iffy and on several days it will rain. Relax and enjoy every single day!
Bob
Gettysburg, PA USA Mon 11/28/2005

one way tickets
My son would frequently buy tickets, not knowing exactly when he would return. The best thing to do is try your hardest to come up with an accurate return date. Then if that doesn't work out, pay the fee ($50, $100, whatever) and change the ticket.
Karen <email>
MN USA Mon 11/28/2005

The look
Will an LLBean look work in Europe? I'm not an opera and fine dining person. I like a casual - free spirit look....cargo pants/shorts....not a slacker look.
Stan
USA Mon 11/28/2005

LL Bean
See if other posters will agree- are you trying to blend in when on your trip? Will you be mostly in cities or mostly not, or both? My experience has been that European men wear much more tailored, tighter- fitting garments. Last summer it was capri- type TIGHT shorts, TIGHT logo t-shirts and/or TIGHT dark-wash jeans. I thought my husband, in his kind of baggy cargo-style longer shorts looked very obviously a tourist. It doesn't sound like you're the tank top type, either! As long as you are modestly covered (knees, too) you can get into all the churches...
USA Mon 11/28/2005

Closed down?
In Munich, Rothenburg, and Salzburg, will there be locals and tourists strolling around the cities during Christmas and New Year? Or they are most likely to stay home to celebrate and to avoid the freezing weather? Please reply. Thank you. I'll be traveling to forget my lost love.
jensiree@hotmail.com
USA Mon 11/28/2005

LLBean Look
No....I'm not into tight and tank....I like long pants....chinos are my fav....as for blending in....that's not a concern of mine....I have an all around - multi purpose kaki sport coat from The Duluth Trading Company (www.duluthtrading.com)...their.... "Fire Hose Presnetation Jacket" item 85350....works well with jeans and kaki's....very easy to layer with....seems there's a lot written about blending in, opera, and fine dining....I live in CA....casual is what's in....

Thanks for the reply
USA Mon 11/28/2005

LL Bean look
I really think we spend way too much time worrying about blending in with our clothes. My husband, who is from Switzerland, was wearing the "LL Bean" look before I met him, when he still lived in Switzerland. Some of his guy friends dressed in the dark, tight jeans, and some dressed like him. Going to Europe does not mean giving up your personal style. And in the 6 times I've been to Europe to visit my husband's family (Switzerland, Germany, Austria), I've seen Europeans that dress just like Americans.
M
USA Mon 11/28/2005

London Hotels
Is Belgravia Hotel different from Belgravia B&B? If so, has anyone stayed at the Belgravia Hotel, and would you recommend it?

I will be traveling to London and Paris in June and am looking to spend about $80/night on average. Does anybody have any good suggestions? Thanks in advance
Katie
Austin, TX USA Mon 11/28/2005

Princess Hotel
Does anyone know anything about the Princess Hotel in London (near King's Crossing)? Thanks
USA Mon 11/28/2005

Thanks to Illinois Harvey
Thank you, Harvey, for your information on trains from Loire to Perigord region. I will check the web-sites you mentioned.
Sandee K
Eagle Point, OR USA Sun 11/27/2005

One way tickets
Paul~~one way tickets here in the states are more then round trip. It's been like that for many, many years.
USA Sun 11/27/2005

re: 1-WAY TICKET TO EUROPE $$$
Paul, many countries won't let tourists in without a return ticket.
USA Sun 11/27/2005

Weather - 21 Day Best of Europe tour
I'm taking the 21 Day Best of Europe tour 2-22 Sep 06. What is the weather goring to be like during the entire leg of the tour? Thanks
USA Sun 11/27/2005

1-WAY TICKET TO EUROPE $$$
I'm planning a trip to Germany & France for Spring. Can't decide when exactly to return so decided to look for one way over and just play it by ear. So far, on airlines offering round trips from between $620 to a $1100 (Minneapolis or Chicago) the cheapest 1-way I've found is $2250 !! Most in excess of $2600!! What the hell is up with one way tickets?!#@!@ Aer Lingus is cheap, but getting less than glowing feedback from their customers.
Paul <email>
St. Paul, MN USA Sun 11/27/2005

Sandee/ rail travel in France
In the order given, there is rail service to the towns you list. Schedules and cost vary by week day/weekend days and by time of day such as off-peak hours. The trip from Sarlat to Cahors, for example, is about 2.5 hrs with possibly a train change along the way. Some of the service is by TGV such as from Saumur to the Perigord distinations. According to my Michelin atlas and the SNCF, Lemieul does not exist, though it certainly does have a nice French sound to it. Check spelling?~~~~~~In addition to the national rail system, there is interregional service listed by region, including the Aquitaine, at the SCNF site. Each of the 22 regions now comprising France has a tourist web site. Some offer details on local travel. You will need this. While the rail service is excellent in France, those short trip connecting bus rides to specific points are often difficult to find. ~~~~~As you are age 59, you should know that French rail travel is discounted when you reach age 60. Two or more persons travelling together also receive a discounted fare. I have, a few times, gotten both though the rules allow only for one discount.
Harvey
ILL USA Sun 11/27/2005

Pensao in Lisbon, Portugal
I read about the Pensao Residencial Roma on Travessa da Gloria (Lisbon) in Rick's book on Portugal and it sounds perfect for me, but since I plan on staying for 6 nights I would like to hear from anyone else who has stayed there. I am a 50 year old woman and I will be traveling with my husband's receptionist, who, like me, will roll with the punches and looks at unplanned events as just another part of the travel adventure. So the reason for that explaination is that while we are obviously not even interested in a four star hotel chain, we do want a clean, safe place to stay near the action, but not in the middle of it. (I am too old get only 2 hours of sleep because of noise.) Thank you for your help.
Barbara Shope <email>
West Monroe, LA USA Sun 11/27/2005

From Loire to Aquitaine
I'm traveling to France next May-July. I'm 59, female, and will be alone for a portion of my trip. I would like to travel from Saumur in the Loire to Perigueux in Aquitaine without a car. Also, I would like to travel to Lemieul, Sarlat la Caneda, and Cahors all without a car. Does anyone know if this is possible? I am hoping to see the Cro Magnon and Neanderthal areas. I will be backpacking and traveling on a slim budget so busses are most likely but I want to see the country side as well. Thanks.
Sandee K.
Eagle Point, OR USA Sun 11/27/2005

Thanks!
on2europe: I've been following your recent postings on the RS site, and I gotta say... You appear to be the most knowlegeable person on the site! (At least as referencing German train info). A big "Thumbs up" to ya, bud! Unlike my last trip (using a Eurail Pass), I fully intend to use your tips on this spring's trip! Thanks, dude! (With all the money I'm gonna save I'll drink several beers in your honor! :-)
Bob C. <email>
N Little Rock, AR USA Sun 11/27/2005

booked up hotels
I came upon a similar practice in France a few years ago. It mainly affected major European chain hotels and some hotels which have a booking service that acts on behalf of the hotel. In these cases, reservation computer programs only accepted dates less than four or so months distant. The hotels were not filled, but the computer read the program as if they were. Perhaps Italian hotels also do this.
USA Sun 11/27/2005

German Rail tickets
To verify several issues raised last night pertaining to German trains, I searched my records and found three train tickets, without reservations, from a recent trip to Germany. One was purchased at a ticket counter; the other two came from machines. They all specify the start and end points of the trip and dates of validity; NONE specifies a certain train.

If a standard fare ticket is purchased online from the DB website, it WILL show a certain train. That’s the way the website works. However, note this statement about online tickets from the DB website.

“The connection specified on standard fare tickets is not binding. This means you may also use other equivalent trains within the validity period of your ticket.”

One of the tickets I bought is for 90 km, and it says it is valid for that day. The other two tickets are for longer distances, and they are valid for the purchase date and the following day. I believe 100 km is the break point.

The Bahn website will allow at least 2 stopovers between Mainz and Koblenz, as long as the trip is finished that day. I wondered about the distance, so I did an Internet search. I found a hotel near Bacharach that said it was 63 km from Mainz and 34 km from Koblenz. Hmm, 97 km. I changed the destination to Neuwied, the next stop after Koblenz, making the connection just over 100 km. I was then allowed a second day of validity.
<email>
USA Sat 11/26/2005

All booked up
Depending on the month you are planning to travel, it's possible the hotels are booked. Not knowing where you are planning to travel, keep in mind that a lot of hotels in italy have 10-20 rooms, in some cases fewer. They could already be booked.

Try different dates if you can. Planning also means being flexible!
USA Sat 11/26/2005

Returned email
Obviously the email address is not working. it could be the hotel's problem, their server could be down, or more likely, since Rick's books have to be researched months in advance, the email address has changed.

Try a google search for the hotel, see if you can find a website and a contact from that.

Worse case, just do a search at www.initaly.com - find links for hotels in the towns you need and book that way. it's worked for us 2 different trips!
USA Sat 11/26/2005

Is it really
I'm planning a trip to Italy in May and I was trying to find out the availability of some hotel rooms. The hotel websites could not tell me, so I googled the hotels and was able to find the larger tour agencies like tarvelacity and expedia. When I entered the dates needed, I was told that those dates were unavailable. My question is: Are those agencies only limited to a certain amount of rooms and if I contact the hotel directly, is there a chance that I can still get a room?
Novato Larry <email>
CA USA Sat 11/26/2005

Email Sent Back From Server
I'm trying to inquire on the availability for a hotel room in Italy. I got the email address from Rick Steve's Italy 2005 edition and the server sends it right back to me. What am I doing wrong?
Novato Larry <email>
CA USA Sat 11/26/2005

Slippers in Palace
Was it Christianborg Palace in Copenhagen? When I took the tour we had to take off our shoes and put on these soft booties/slippers.

Kate

>>Palace in Scandinavia I have memories of touring a palace in a Scandinavian city and being given soft slippers to wear during the tour.

Can someone help me remember where this was/is?
Kate
Scotland Sat 11/26/2005

Italy itinerary
While not a total expert, I was in Italy for 5 weeks last summer. We flew into Venice's airport, which was fantastic- very small and the fabulous introduction to the city by taking the water bus. Our jet lag vaporized instantly! Maybe after however long you are going to have there, you can take the vaporetto to the train station and get to the mainland/next destination where you can get your car. Siena might be an idea- with the car you would be able to map an itinerary throughout Tuscany where it really helps to have one. You could drop it off in Pisa and use the train to get to the Cinque Terre and then fly home from either Genoa or Pisa- all this assumes staying in the north, of course.
USA Sat 11/26/2005

AERO ISLAND HOME RENTAL
Roger: do a google.com search for “Aero Island accommodations". Also try apartments and houses.
JOHNNY Z.
DALLAS, USA Sat 11/26/2005

DRIVING ITALY
KATHLEEN: I would fly into Milano so you can drive to Cinque Terre, Venice, Padova, Genova and Lugano.

You will find the airport easy to navigate and centrally located in Northern Italy.

Take a look at a road map of the area and plan your own itinerary.

No one can do it for you because only you know how many days you want to spend in any area and how far you can drive in a day’s time.
CARLOS
EL PASO, USA Sat 11/26/2005

Italy
My sister and I are planning a trip to Italy in May for 10 nights. We plan on renting a car to get around. We have already been to Florence, Portofino and Rome. This time we would like to see Venice and some other cities. Does anyone have suggestions on what airport to fly in and out of and some kind of itinerary?
Kathleen
Troy, MI USA Sat 11/26/2005

Christmas Day in France
My husband and I will be in France from December 14th until the 26th. We're trying to decide if we should spend our last few nights (before an early morning flight) in Paris or Mont St Michel, or if anyone has any other ideas???? We're looking for anyplace that will feel festive, and not be locked up tight for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Thanks for any ideas!
Kathryn Triolo <email>
New Hope, PA USA Sat 11/26/2005

German trains
I am not quite sure how to answer your question, because I am not quite sure what you mean by "connection". For the most part they use the same tracks and the same ticketing system.

As I understand it, a few years ago, regional travel within the various states, or Länder, of Germany was spun off as individual companies, although they are, I think, still subsidiaries of DB. These regional companies tend to handle all travel within the Land, including buses.

The Fernverkehr, or distant travel company, runs the InterCity Expresses (ICE) and the Intercity trains (IC), that go across Germany.

The regional trains, IR, IRE, RE, RB are run by the Nahverkehr of the local Land, but they do cross borders. I believe that the Nahverkehr also runs the S-Bahns.

There are also Verkehr Verbünden, metro transit authorities, that run the U-Bahn, streetcars, and buses in the metro areas, like MVV in Munich.

In major stations, the Fernverkehr Travel Centers (Reise Zentrum), or the red Fernverkehr machines, will sell tickets to all over Germany, even if they use regional trains or U-Bahn to get to your destination. So will the DB website. In the last few years, the DB site stopped showing fares entirely within an individual Verkehrverband. Thus, today you can find a fare from Mainz to St. Goar, but not from Mainz to Bacharach (nice).

In stations served by regional trains, you will find blue/white Nahverkehr ticket machines that sell tickets for regional trains.
<email>
USA Fri 11/25/2005

German trains
Is there any connection between the regional rail systems in Germany and a national one?
USA Fri 11/25/2005

Rheinland-Pfalz Ticket
Paul, BTW, if there are two of you, instead of buying €14,60 each tickets from Mainz to Koblenz, buy one €21,- Rheinland-Pfalz ticket. This allows you to ride on any regional trains, all day long, on weekdays after 9 AM, up until 3 AM the following morning, hop on all you want, backtrack, etc. On the weekend, a Schönes Wochenende ticket is about €30, and will do the same without the 9 AM restriction, and will be good on all regional trains in Germany.
<email>
USA Fri 11/25/2005

German Rail system
Paul, I am not sure how other national rail companies handle it, but on German Rail you can break a trip. However, if you are on a special fare that is TRAIN SPECIFIC, such as a Europa Spezial (not currently available), Surf 'n Rail, or SparPreis, you cannot break the trip. And, if you have reservations for the first leg, they obviously will not carry over to the second train.
<email>
USA Fri 11/25/2005

GERMAIN TRAINS
This pertains generally to all the trains, but most specifically to the Rhine stretch from Mainz to Koblenz. If someone buys a ticket Mainz-Koblenz can they get off the train along the way, (spend some time in one of the towns, either hours or overnight) and then get back on another train?
Paul <email>
St. Paul, MN USA Fri 11/25/2005

re: Christmas season in Europe
Ashley, you didn't say you were going to Switzerland, but I thought I'd share with you and others my experience there during the Christmas season...

I was in Winterthur, which is about a 20-minute drive northeast of Zurich. They had a wonderful Christmas market, with street vendors selling all kinds of things, as well as food stands selling brats, coffee, and special spiced wine to warm you up. I thought this city was beautiful anyway, and the holiday made it even better.
M
USA Fri 11/25/2005

Christmas Season in Europe
I am planning on working in London from around July-mid November, then travelling the continent for the Christmas season, until probably after my birthday (January 6).

I read the Christmas in Europe thread, and it gave me many wonderful ideas. However, I was curious as to what are the best times of the season to visit certain places? I would like to be somewhere over Christmas where the whole place will not completely shut down, as I will be travelling alone. I have been to Europe a few times, and have seen many sites, so they are not so important, as long as there are still things that I can get out and do and see.

The cities I am interested in are Salzburg and area, Vienna, Munich, Rothenburg, Gimmelwald, Krakow, Budapest, Paris, Rome, and Venice. I need to slim down that list so I can come up with a general itinerary.

Any suggestions are much appreciated! :)
Ashley <email>
Victoria, BC CANADA Fri 11/25/2005

Good Travel Pants
On month long trips to Europe I take two pairs of Dockers. I usually get medium colors that don't show dirt well and the microfiber blends are especially great for resisting the worst type of spills. This past September on a boat to Oslo, I was walking away from a buffet and I spilled dark blackberry juice down the front of my pants. It looked bad, real bad.... I headed for the restroom and got some cold water on it, and headed back to eat--wet spot and all. Amazingly after drying it showed absolutely no mark at all--I didn't even have to wash them later. Dockers resist wrinkling and are both stylish and casual. I adhere to Rick's philosophy of blending in with the locals and these pants work well.
Rick
Seattle, WA USA Thu 11/24/2005

TravelSmith
I think TravelSmith is a great company with great cloths. A tad expensive but worth it.

http://www.travelsmith.com/ts/home.jsp
USA Thu 11/24/2005

Travel pants
I am looking for suggestions on mens travel pants that are appropriate for causal evening dress in Spain that are wrinke resistant.
Jim Gragg <email>
Granite Bay, CA USA Thu 11/24/2005

Aero--wow!
Sorry, I can't help you with house rental because we stayed at the Pension Vestergade (in one of Rick's videos.) However, I have to say that Aero is a wonderful, wonderful place. The history is fascinating, and there's lots to do (assuming you don't demand nightlife.)
Karen <email>
MN USA Thu 11/24/2005

Aero Island Home Rental?
Anyone have suggestions for renting a house for a week on Denmark's Aero Island? We will be there in late July, '06.
Roger Rhoads <email>
Mentor, OH USA Thu 11/24/2005

Seattle to Dubrovnik--No Problem
Dubrovnik is quite easy and inexpensive to get to from Seattle, having done it myself. You just have to fly into a major European city and then catch another flight onward to Dubrovnik--which is a very popular destination flown by lots of European airlines. I flew into Vienna--which I wanted to experience anyway--then took a 45 minute SkyEurope shuttle to Bratislava and flew SkyEurope airline direct to Dubrovnik for about $100. There are direct flights from Brussels, Budapest, Dublin, Paris, London, Frankfurt and many other cities that will take you to Dubrovnik on one of Europe's many budget airlines--check out www.europebyair.com ($99 flights when purchased in the USA) and the following link:

http://www.whichbudget.com/en/cheapflights.php?to=DBV

Dubrovnik is a great place to visit and to use as a hub for other places nearby. The islands are wonderful, the guided bus trips ($50) to Montenegro and Bosnia are a must for the adventurous, and don't miss beautiful Cavtat--a half hour boat ride south of Dubrovnik, lots of boats and water transportation from the old harbor right in the old town. There are plenty of budget accomodations, local people have nice rooms that go for a song. Atlas Travel Agencies in Dubrovnik are honest and helpful. Rick's Eastern Europe Guidebook has good advice.
Richard
Bellingham, WA USA Wed 11/23/2005

Jose: Expect the time of your life!

Pros = You'll be in Italy. YES!!!

Cons = 1) You won't be there long enough 2) You think Miami is hot in Aug?

Half of Italy goes on a month long vacation beginning August 1st and the other half takes two weeks off starting Aug 12th. It would be better if you could go in either June of Sept. but you'll do OK. There is plenty to see and do and even if half of it is closed there will still be more than enough for a 10 day visit to those three cities. You won't be sorry you went.

Luv2Travel: We've tried to getting to Dubrovnik from Tacoma and I don't think you can do it. Seriously, I don't think you can get there from here. Not without refinancing your house anyway. We were trying to get to Dubrovnik from Athens actually, but it's the same problem. We've changed our plans and are going to fly from Athens to Barcelona and see Spain and Portugal instead. Croatia will have to wait until we can visit Eastern Europe and travel south rather than going east from Italy.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Wed 11/23/2005

Best time to trave to Italy?
Hello everyone,

I’m doing some research on a 10 day trip to Italy. The only time that we’re able to go is the end of July or the beginning of August 2006. We’re not sure if many locations and restaurants will be closed. Basically don’t know what to expect. Could someone tell us the pros and cons of going this time of the year? Planning on going to Rome, Florence, and Venice…..

Thanks for your input…
Jose <email>
Miami, FL. USA Wed 11/23/2005

Getting to Dubrovnik from Seattle
I am getting frustrated trying to find the quickest and cheapest way to get from Seattle to Dubrovnik. My thought was to fly to somewhere in Europe, i.e, Paris or Rome and then get a cheap euro flight to Dubrovnik. This is proving to be very expensive. Most of the flights would put me into Zagreb and then I would have to get myself to Dubrovnik. For my first trip to Croatia I really just wanted to go to Dubrovnik with day trips to some islands. I can fly into Rome and train to Bari or Anacona and take the ferry to Dubrovnik, but this is really time consuming. So if anyone has any ideas, I'd love to hear them.
luv2travel
Seattle, WA USA Wed 11/23/2005

Monocular
Margaret....the function of binoculars, monoculars, telescopes...in fact, anything that magnifies, is based on two factors....the power of the magnification, and the diameter of the objective lens (the lens at the opposite end from the eyepiece). So a monocular labelled as 8 x 20 would magnify an item by 8 times, through an objective lens that is 20 millimeters in diameter. The size of the objective lens is important because the bigger it is, the more light it gathers. In a dim interior, the more light you can bring in, the better. I would look for the largest diameter objective lens you think you can comfortably carry, then look for a maximum magnification of 8 to 10x. Anything more than that, and you won't be able to hold your hand steady enough to see anything! Your best bet is probably an 8 or 10x 25....bigger objective lenses cost a lot more. For reference, 25 millimeters is about an inch.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Wed 11/23/2005

Round the world
For RTW air tickets try http://airtreks.com/ For general planning info read Hasbrouck's "Practical Nomad" (http://hasbrouck.org/).
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Wed 11/23/2005

travel around the world
Replying to the question about RTW travels, another option (if you have the time) is freighter cruising. Newer container ships have nice cabins for 6-12 people, stop in each port 1-4 days, and are inexpensive alternatives to regular cruising. You pick the length cruise that works for you - anywhere out to 120 days. Check www.freigherworld.com. Good luck.
Kirkland, WA USA Wed 11/23/2005

I'm thinking of getting hubby a monocular for our upcoming trip to Italy. (Binoculars are so cumbersome.) He will want to see the art/architecture 'up close and personal'. I haven't a clue about magnification, etc., so if anyone out there has some helpful hints on what I should look for, I'd sure appreciate them. Thanks!
Margaret
USA Wed 11/23/2005

Travel Club In Portland OR
Does anyone know if there is a foreign travel club in Portland OR? I used to attend one that met at Portland St U. But believe in disbanded.
Sharrie <email>
Portland, OR USA Wed 11/23/2005

Debbie re:Travel in Egypt etc.
You should read the Consular Information Sheet for Egypt. Get to it via the United States Department of State web site. You will find warnings such as "use extreme vigilance in tourist areas". On the USDOS site, there is a warning against visiting the Gaza area and Left Bank areas, that is, the areas recently vacated by Israel. Nomad, a joint Australian government and travel industry site, warns Australians to stay altogether out of Egypt. Israel warns its citizens also to stay out based on information of October 5 of planned terrorists activities in tourist areas. In regard to the previous poster who says that the Egyptians he met were entirely civil and welcoming. I also remember many of the people I met to be so, but there are organizations uncontrolled by the Egyptian government, such as "The Brotherhood", that warrant great concern.
HG
ILL USA Wed 11/23/2005

world tour
i am wanting to take a round the world trip. i was browsing through a website named www.bootsnall.com i would like to know if anyone has used this website before. please comment as soon as you can.
Seattle <email>
Kirkland, WA USA Tue 11/22/2005

Egyptians' Sentiment Towards Americans
Debbie, I recently returned from two weeks in Egpyt and encountered absolutely zero anti-American sentiment. I found the Egyptian people to be genuinely friendly, and many I spoke with commented that they wished more Americans would visit their country. I'm really glad I went, and I suspect you'll return home feeling the same way.
Frank
Wilmington, DE USA Tue 11/22/2005

Second city to Krakow
If you decide to stay in Krakow the whole time, you can day trips to nearby Wieliczka Salt Mines and Auchwitz-Birkenau. Warsaw is a great day trip as well. I think Warsaw is worth seeing, but not spending multiple days there. There are interesting museums and palaces, and the old town was rebuilt after WWII based on old architectual drawings. There is a lot of history in Warsaw. I have taken the overnight train from Krakow to Prague, Budapest and Berlin (I lived in Krakow for a while). Gdansk and Gydinia are good choices for cities inside of Poland. If you choose to do another city outside Poland, I'd recommend Budapest. It's an amazing city. Prague is beautiful, but too many tourists for my tastes.
Sheila
Seattle, WA USA Tue 11/22/2005

Prague to Rome
I think regulars on this website fully understand the problems with going to U.S. based ticket sellers to get point to point fares. These sites sell a limited selection of tickets for a limited number of trains on limited routes, and they usually don’t include the promotional fares that can save a lot of money. They don’t necessarily show you the fastest, least expensive connections; they show you what they can sell you.

Prague to Rome is a prime example. The site suggested earlier offered me two options. One was a $232, 32 hour connection through Budapest, the other a $281, 21 hour connection through Frankfurt. Note also, that each of these options is sold as two individual 2nd class tickets in coach seats. They might require a lengthy connection with an overnight stay.

As I already showed, it is possible to travel by train from Prague to Rome in 19 hours for about $107 (€89). That includes a bed in a private double on a night train and saves the cost of a hotel room. The cost in a couchette or seat would be even less.

For the above fare, I used counter tickets in Prague, a Bayern Ticket purchased online from DB, and a non-refundable SparNight ticket from Nachtzug Reise. Even with refundable, full fare counter tickets for the night train, the trip would only be $180 including the double compartment.

Admittedly, I am somewhat more knowledgeable than average on some European rail travel, but anybody should be able to find full fare coach tickets (Prague to Munich and Munich to Rome) for $205 total on the German Rail website.

So, if you want to buy tickets in advance from someone in this country, and you are not terribly concerned about connections or prices, by all means use someone like Rail Pass or Rail Europe, but if you just want to know what it will actually cost for point to point tickets over there, go the sources.
<email>
USA Tue 11/22/2005

Wine Carafes
Does anyone know where I can buy one of the wine carafes from any of the cafes in Paris? They are brown in color and come in a few different sizes.
Stephanie <email>
Duluth, Georgia USA Tue 11/22/2005

What's doable with Krakow?
Any of the cities you mentioned would be doable with Krakow. My vote would be Prague. It's a wonderful city. You're right about Warsaw. It's worth a day-trip from Krakow at the most. I can't comment on Gdansk, having never been there. In the old town area of Krakow, you really won't need much Polish. It's pretty English-friendly. As usual, knowing a few polite words in the local language goes a long way. I found the Lonely Planet Polish phrasebook to be rather good. We didn't hear any German in Krakow, so I'm not sure if it would come in handy. Any questions, feel free to write.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 11/22/2005

PRAGUE TO ROME
Take a look at this webpage for point to point fares:

http://www.railpass.com/new/passes/frameset/frpoint.asp
K. K. J.
MILANO, ID USA Tue 11/22/2005

What's doable with Krakow?
Our weekend project is going to be to find either frequent flier tickets or cheap airline tickets so we can visit Krakow in March. We will be gone just over a week. What big city is a good combination with Krakow? Or is there enough in the area of Krakow to keep us occupied. I was thinking Berlin, Dresden, Vienna or Prague. Further east is OK too. I had the impression that Warsaw wasn't that interesting. Some day I want to see Gdansk, and I love Polish pottery. I speak no Polish, but some German. Sitting all day or all night on a train is OK.
Karen <email>
MN USA Tue 11/22/2005

Is Italy Safe?
For Terry..You have traveled to some wonderful places in Europe but one of the best is still there for you to discover and that is Italy. Travel in Italy does not mean a threat to your personal safety - it just means taking some sensible precautions to protect your THINGS. Perhaps 80% of this is accomplished just by wearing a money belt or some other hidden pouch under your clothes. You have to be sensitve about your personal space with ANYONE whom you do not know. That said, the Italian people are some of the very best hosts in the world. You have much to look forward to and I'm sure that you'll be happy that you decided to visit Italy.
George
Philadelphia, USA Mon 11/21/2005

Prague to Rome
With all due respects to our benefactor (RS) the railpass guide is general and maybe a little out of date. $140 is less than 112 EUR. It's doable, but not what most people would be able to get.

It might be possible to make the trip a little cheaper through Vienna, but not by much, and it is much more difficult to determine the fares.

The easiest way to get fares is to use the DB website. According to them, for 2nd class day coach, it will cost €49 from Prague to Munich, and €121 from Munich to Rome - €170 total - over $200.

There can be some savings on the Prague to Munich end. If you buy a ticket in Prague to the Czech border, it's about 440 Kc, or €8.34. If you also buy, online, a single person Bayern ticket, good from the border to Munich, it's €17. For up to 5 people it is €24. So for 2 people, the total trip is €20 (€12+ €8). The Bayern ticket is only good on regional trains, but most of the trains from the border to Munich are regional.

There are also some saving from Munich to Rome if you go by night train. In the extreme, a coach seat on the train from Munich to Rome could be as low as €29 (about €49 for the whole trip). This assumes you purchase long enough in advance to get the non-refundable SparNight fare. On the same fare, a couchette 4 bed is €49 per person (€69 total), or a bed in a private double is €69 per person (€89 total).

A lot depends on what accommodations you insist on and how long in advance you are willing to commit.
<email>
CO USA Mon 11/21/2005

Prague to Rome
According to Rick's railpass guide, the approximate fare is:$140 THe railpass guide can be download via this link: http://www.ricksteves.com/rail/pdfs/05railguide_all.pdf
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 11/21/2005

Anti-American activities/ sentiment in Turkey & Egypt
Hubby & I long to see Istanbul and Alexandria/Giza but are concerned about anti-American sentiment. Can anyone comment on this from recent experience.
Debbie <email>
Seminole, FL USA Mon 11/21/2005

Prague to Rome
I'm looking to see how much a one-way, 2nd class train ticket from Prague to Rome will cost. I can't find any real information anywhere. Thanks.
WA USA Mon 11/21/2005

IS ITALY A SAFE PLACE
Terry: Italy is safe (as others tell you). But you must be on the alert at all times. Never forget that you are a target . The ones who want to get close to you and look harmless are sometimes the most dangerous.

The first five minutes we were in Rome a pickpocket had his hand in my pocket. But I was alert and drove him away.

Use good judgement about where you go and keep all your valuables in a safe place. I use a neck pouch since it is out of reach and I avoid using a belly bag or fanny pack because the strap can be cut.

Any scam artist posing as police can be driven away by asking for identification. Be careful where you go especially after dark. And stay around fellow tourists whenever you can.
CAROLE W. M.
LOS ANGELES, USA Mon 11/21/2005

GREECE- May 2006
Looking for ideas for trip to Greece/2006. Mid-late May for 7-10 days. Father/daughter looking for photo ops, getting the whole experience, hotel suggestions, places to see, history to take advantage of. possible considerations of different time of year for waether purposes, daily inter-island cruises, etc, etc.
Bill <email>
Salem, Ore USA Mon 11/21/2005

Still another reassurance about Italy
I spent more than 5 weeks in Italy, including the cities where you want to visit, last summer. Having read all these posts and Rick's warnings, I was fairly paranoid and endlessly watching for gypsy children with the cardboard, etc. We had not a single incident and never once did I feel threatened or unsafe. Wouldn't you be careful in a large city like NYC on the subways or getting cash out of a money machine, too? I do believe that being aware of those around us, trying to blend in clothing- wise, not walking around with enormous maps in front of our faces and religiously using the money belt techniques are just common sense wherever you travel. I do think the clothing and accessories come in a close second to the money belt. I saw tourists (including my husband!) with big cameras strapped over the shoulder, shorts and Hawaiian- style shirts with white socks and gym shoes that scream "I am an American tourist"! My college- aged daughter continued on her own for another few weeks all over Italy and had no problems, either, just as the previous poster said. Go to Italy!!!
USA Mon 11/21/2005

Safety in Italy
Terry, I agree with prior poster-Italy is very safe. The only thing we have had personal experience with is pickpockets (though they were never successful). They seemed to be the worst on bus and train transport within Rome. Didn't see anything iffy in Venice. Friends have had trouble with pickpockets in Florence. Having said this we felt very comfortable sending our 17 year old daughter with 2 friends to Europe this summer. Their favorites were Rome & Venice. They were taught normal (female) precautions and never felt unsafe. I was a little concerned for the safety of their passports and cash but not for their physical safety.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Mon 11/21/2005

Is Italy a Safe Place?
Yes, it is Terry, as long as you take logical precautions. Italy probably has a crime rate less than the US's. Having traveled in Italy, Spain, and other countries of western Europe, I really think this hysteria over pickpockets, scam artists, etc. is way overdone. We have never felt unsafe in the tourist areas of these countries. I would suggest you use good sense, but by all means, go to Italy and other European countries.
Ron
DeWitt, MI USA Mon 11/21/2005

Is Italy a safe place?
We are thinking of going to Italy next fall. But after reading Rick's Italy 2006, I am wondering how safe is it. The book starts out warning of pick pockets, scam artist posing as police, and other pit falls. We would like to see Rome, Florence, Venice, ect. But my question is. Is this safe? Also, we have traveled to the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Spain on our own and never had any problems.
Terry
OK USA Mon 11/21/2005

Easter in Amsterdam
While its not small, my choice would be the Grote Kerk in Haarlem. The gothic architechure is beutiful and the organ is wonderful!
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 11/20/2005

Hubs and myself will be in Amsterdam (first time) on Easter Sunday. Does anyone have ideas of where we could attend church that day? We'd love to find something small and un-touristy.
Margaret
USA Sun 11/20/2005

Paris Museum Pass
Some of these attractions are now free, so no need for money or a pass. Carnavelet and Hugo's house, for example.
USA Sun 11/20/2005

Greece in February
Greece in February? Will everything be shut down on the islands?
Shannon Cortez <email>
Olympia, WA USA Sat 11/19/2005

Paris Museum Pass
Looks like not only have the prices gone up, they don't cover as many museums and attractions as before! The Musee Carnavelet, Balzac's house, Hugo's house, Musee Zadkine,... and many others are no longer included. I'm wondering, during off-season, when there aren't long lines, is it still worth it to buy the 3-day pass?
Fiona
NYC, Sat 11/19/2005

Paris Museum pass...more than 5 days
I was wondering if anyone would know where I can get my hands on a year-long museum pass for Paris. I was told that if I travel to Paris a few times throughout the year that I could get a museum pass that was good for an entire year. Has anyone else heard of this? It's not on the museum pass web site, so I wasn't sure. This would be great for me. Thanks!
Oz
USA Sat 11/19/2005

Funny story--Berlin breakfast
In 1994 we stayed at the Fruhling am Zoo hotel in Berlin. The brochure we looked at incorrectly said that breakfast was not included. We had been reprimanded by too many Germans and didn't want to get yelled at one more time--so we just went out for breakfast on the street each morning. The last morning we had to catch an early plane & thought we'd bite the bullet and pay for breakfast. Well, the desk clerk said (not in a nice way)-of course we should eat there, breakfast is always included in the price of a room at German hotels.
Karen <email>
MN USA Sat 11/19/2005

Dublin Apartment
I'm interested in renting an apartment in Dublin for a three day stay - has anybody done and if so, can you make a recommendation? Thanks, Judy
judy Erlandson <email>
san jose, CA USA Sat 11/19/2005

Burren Tours (for Megan)
I had an incredible burren tour with a local man whose knowledge is amazing and whose accent and story-telling are a treat. I was wishing I had a tape recorder because I wanted to write down everything he said - but he kept me walking at too brisk a pace to be taking any notes. You can look him up on-line: Shane Connolly at Burren Hill Walks. If you take public transportation to Ballyvaughn or somewhere close, he'll pick you up. Be sure and wear good hiking shoes; it's a good hike. Enjoy your trip - it should be a great adventure. (post again if you have any trouble finding Shane, and I can help)
Kate
Seattle, USA Sat 11/19/2005

Secon the B'fast
I agree, because "breakfast" can be some dry crackers and instant coffee and tea or a huge repast and everything in between. When traveling I try to pick places that have huge included breakfasts (after checking, as suggested)- if we gorge ourselves you're "fueled" for all the walking and then we generally can just grab a snack on the go for lunch and often, later, catch the tail of end lunch which is way cheaper than dinner. On the other hand if you have a lot of early trains or flights it might not be worth the extra expense...
USA Fri 11/18/2005

Breakfast
I would contact the hotel even if the listing says that it does include breakfast.

I've been burned on that before.
Barry
Houston, TX USA Fri 11/18/2005

Breakfast in Berlin Hotels?
Do hotels in Berlin normally included breakfast? As I scan the internet hotel listings (*** or ****), I see some hotels that explicitly mention including breakfast, some that charge for breakfast, and others that don't mention breakfast at all.

Question: If I want a hotel that includes breakfast, should the listing explicitly state that it does or should I contact the hotel and ask?
Steve <email>
Eugene, OR USA Fri 11/18/2005

Copenhagen to Oslo--again!
I should have clarified about the $500 drop charge. It was a last-minute change in plans that caused it. Our rental car reservation had us returning the car to Bergen with no drop charge, and we would fly back to Copenhagen. But a sudden strike by Norwegian air traffic controllers foiled that plan. In order to get back to CPH in time for our overseas flight home, we had to drive, and return the car to Hertz there. Had we planned in advance, we could have checked out the drop charges; perhaps by renting from a different company we could have avoided it altogether. Also, perhaps Laurie's plans call for a round trip from Copenhagen to Stockholm and back, in which case it wouldn't be a factor at all. I only mentioned the drop charge as a caution in case the trip is one-way.

Laurie, according to the comments here---so negative about the train---it may be that car rental is still the best choice. We actually enjoy European trains a lot, but I've not used them in Scandinavia so I can't comment on the "boring" factor that one poster mentioned. So my suggestion is still that you compare prices and factor that into your decision.
Lura
Seattle, WA USA Thu 11/17/2005

Missed the Boat
There are ferries/boats from Copenhagen to Oslo and from Stockholm to Helsinki, but nothing between Copenhagen and Stockholm. This is NOT an option.
John
Temecula, CA USA Thu 11/17/2005

Copenhagen to Stockholm
Which ferry? - There is no ferry between Copenhagen and Stockholm!
Chrismo1
Copenhagen, Denmark Thu 11/17/2005

COPENHAGEN TO STOCKHOLM
I think the ferry will be best. Driving is a costly option. If $500 drop charge is common, that takes it out of my ability to pay. And gasoline is costly.

The train ride is dreary and boring. I agree that renting a room on the ferry will be best. Our ferry was crowded, but the room was quiet.

And we had a choice of good restaurants on board. I would explore the cost of each method and then decide which one I want to take.
WALTER M.
CONN USA Thu 11/17/2005

Renting apartments in Paris
To Charles, concerning apartment renting in Paris. We have rented twice in the past several years, and each time it was terrific! It provides you a home away from home, a place to return to in the afternoon, for a soda or a nap, before going out for the evening; or a place to prepare a supper. Being able to keep snacks & drinks in the fridge is a money saver, great for packing a lunch or a bottle of water. Each time, our interaction with the owner was wonderful, a great chance to meet and converse with a "real" French person! Being in a neigborhood, doing shopping there, walking the streets there- you can greet shop owners like friends. And as you found out, it can actually be cheaper than a hotel room, and well worth it, for the extra space and the already mentioned benefits. I found a fun website (www.PHILEAS-FOGG.COM) that categorizes the apartments specifically, narrowing the choices in an easy way- we were looking for an apartment with internet connection, and found a great little place in the 15th arrondissement, and the owner even stopped by to meet us. Any other questions, feel free to email-
B. Jones <email>
wa USA Wed 11/16/2005

COPENHAGEN TO STOCKHOLM
I didn't think the ferry was expensive. And you have a quiet restful room.

When you consider that you avoid buying a hotel room for a night, it is a good investment.

After riding European trains I know how tiring they can be. Six hours will seem like ten.
H.A.Q.
NYC, USA Wed 11/16/2005

TORINO CAMPING
Barbara: take a look at this webpage: http://www.faitacalabria.it/Camping/GB/Torino_sul_mare.htm.

If it doesn't help, do a google.com search for "Campgrounds Torino".
BOBBI
TULSA, USA Wed 11/16/2005

Torino Olympics and camping
Hi, I am going to be traveling in a rented RV during the Olympics and want to know if there are any tips on where to camp or even park for the night during the Olympic time frame in Torino. Since I had very little luck with hotels (too expensive) I decided on the Camper. Now I am having a hard time finding sites to park or camp. Thanks!
Barbara <email>
tahoe City, Ca USA Wed 11/16/2005

car rental in spain
Does anyone know of a reputable reliable and affordable car rental company in Andalusia Spain? I will be travelling around there for 2 1/2 weeks this Dec. Thanks in advance!
Noelle <email>
Vienna, Austria Wed 11/16/2005

RE: Paris During the Riots
I second Diane's comments below about Paris and the riots. We also just returned from 10 days in Paris and had no problems. Our hotel was in the Boulogne-Billancourt suburb. My husband speaks French fluently and all the locals we talked to didn't seem very concerned about the situation. The affected areas are places tourists wouldn't go anyway.
Julie
Omaha, NE USA Wed 11/16/2005

Coenhagen to Stockholm
Laurie---the ferry might be fun and romantic, but the overnight ferries in Scandinavia are very expensive, and often crowded with party-goers. Your other options are better, budget-wise. The train from Copenhagen to Stockholm takes about 5 hours. They leave almost hourly (from the airport, not the downtown station). Some go direct with no changes; on others you change once, in Malmo. But depending on how many of you there are, driving could be more cost effective (if you fit in one car) and very pleasant. Despite what the post below said, not all roads in Scandinavia are slow. If you want "fast", there is an expressway up the coast from Malmo to Goteborg (the E6/E20) that looks just like an American freeway, complete with fast food vendors at the exit ramps. I think I even remember a McDonalds, not that we go to Europe for that! At Goteborg it splits, and the E20 veers east to Stockholm, as a 2-lane road. I haven't actually driven that part, but it passes several lakes and looks quite scenic on the map. I have found driving in Scandinavia very easy; the drivers are courteous and drive more like we do here than, say, Italian drivers. The roads are well-built, safe, and well-signed. But look carefully into the cost---we paid a $500 drop charge to take a car from Norway to Copenhagen instead of returning it to Oslo. It may well be that the train is your best option.
Lura
Seattle, WA USA Wed 11/16/2005

Hostels
When preparing and researching for our 45 day trip in 8 countries during the summer of 2005, I relied on the Bug Reviews and Hostelz Reviews when selecting our Hostels.

Due to my age it was important to locate a Hostel near public transportation.

http://www.bugeurope.com/reviews/

http://www.hostelz.com/

In my opinion, one should always check these sites for reviews by previous guest, unless however, a hostel was recommended by someone.
JB
USA Wed 11/16/2005

Munich Hostel
My daughter (46) and I (age 64) stayed at the Wombat Hostel in Munich June 2005 and was extremely pleased with the accommadations. We had a double room (twin beds)which included an ensuite bathroom for 31 Euro per person per night. The hostel is very clean and the breakfast very good. The hostel is 1- 2 blocks from the main train station. Copy and paste these links to your browser for more information:

http://www.wombats-hostels.com/munich-hostel/rates-hostels-munich.shtml

http://www.bugeurope.com/reviews/Germany/Bavaria/Munich/de653/index.htm

This is the link for the Meininger Hostel Bug Review. I would be cautious due to the fact the only review is from Anonymous.

http://www.bugeurope.com/reviews/Germany/Bavaria/Munich/de659/index.htm
JB
USA Wed 11/16/2005

Hostels
Has anyone stayed at Meininger City Hostel in Munich? Would it be okay for two 50ish woman and a 19-year-old boy? Any suggestions for other hostels in Munich in July 06 after World Cup?
CJS
Wisconsin USA Wed 11/16/2005

TRAVELING EUOROPE FOR SENIOR TRIP
Jen: Staying in hostels will be a pleasant experience for you. My wife and I are over 60 and we stay in them in Europe always.

They are almost like a family hotel. The cost will vary from $30 TO $40 for a room for three with breakfast.

Do a google.com search for “Berlin Hostels” and read about them. Do the same for Munich or Paris or any other city.

You will find all you need to know about them . And you can reserve rooms by email and ask for confirmation by email.

I can recommend hostels after staying in them in 13 countries all over the world.
CHAZZIE W.
TULSA, USA Tue 11/15/2005

STORING LUGGAGE
Kim: Most RR stations have “Left Luggage Counters” where you can check your luggage.
FRAUNKE
CHICAGO, USA Tue 11/15/2005

TRAVEL COPENHAGEN TO STOCKHOLM
Laurie: When I look at a map I can see that I would take the overnight ferry and get a stateroom.

I did that when going from Helsinki to Stockholm and it was the best decision. Driving in Scandinavia is much slower than here because they have very few expressways.

The best place to stay in Stockholm is Formule1 motels. We had a room for 3 for $30 a night. It is very plain but clean and quiet.

Webpage:www.hotelforumule1.com (Number one).
R. C. C.
DALLAS, USA Tue 11/15/2005

for Jenn- Youth/non-youth hostels
You are fortunate to have such a loving family- what an amazing graduation present! This past summer I traveled with my daughters (one your age, for the same graduation reason- the other in college)in Europe. I am very liberal politically and in good shape physically and not horribly fussy but the hostels can be tough, at least, youth hostels! In youth hostels there will be open drug use sometimes, partying sometimes, late hours, sometimes, etc. So make sure to check because there is a BIG difference between the youth and the non-youth hostels- so that is something to make sure of. You can look around online at Hostelbookers or Hostelworld or any of a number of others to get an idea of prices. Sometimes it's almost the same price to stay in a cheap hotel as a hostel, in the cities, and a private shower with guaranteed warm water is a nice thing! Much will depend on what your parents are used to. I tried a few times to book a room for four (2 bunks) even with just the three of us, and a couple times it wasn't honored and we ended up in big dorms- this was with an online confirmation printed out, pre- paid, etc. You will have a fantastic time and planning will be so exciting! Congratulations!
Karen
USA Tue 11/15/2005

Travel insurance for Susannah
Try this website:

http://www.travelsafe.com/
USA Tue 11/15/2005

New Years in Europe
I will be flying into Amsterdam on 12/29 and I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on what to do or where to go for New Year's Eve? We would have 2 days to get somewhere by train. My boyfriend and I are in our mid-twenties, but we aren't looking to go clubbing or party hard. Are there any fun activities in the squares or other public celebrations?
Liz <email>
Aston, PA USA Tue 11/15/2005

French - Jenn
I'm not sure about the hostel situation, but let me warn you that skipping to second year French after having taken Spanish would be a really bad idea. The languages are similar structurally, but not enough is the same to make skipping a first-year type class feasible.
Jake
San Francisco, CA USA Tue 11/15/2005

Travel from Copenhagen to Stockholm
We are 2 families traveling to Copenhagen August, 06. We want to spend 2-3 days in Stockholm. What is the best way to get to Stockholm--train, drive?? Also,want some good suggestions on where to stay in Stockholm that is not expensive. We are hoping to spend $100 or so per night per family. We are open to B&B's, guest houses or hotels. Can't find any posts about Stockholm!
Laurie <email>
Minneapolis, Minnesota USA Tue 11/15/2005

Storing excess luggage
Next spring we're going to Armenia for our daughter's wedding, then to Austria/Germany for a couple of weeks. Because of the wedding, we'll be taking more "stuff" than usual. When we get to Austria, we'd love to stash our big suitcase(s) somewhere (airport locker? hotel storage?) and travel light with just a carry-on until it's time to board the plane for home. Is there a safe place to store excess luggage?
Kim <email>
Placerville, CA USA Tue 11/15/2005

Mail overseas
Hi. Just wondering what it is going to cost to send my letters from overseas home. I'm googling it and coming up more confused than I am. Thanks.
Sandra <email>
Puyallup , WA USA Tue 11/15/2005

Traveling around Europe for Senior Trip
My parents and I will be travelling to Germany, France, Spain, and Italy this coming summer for my Senior Trip. We're trying to cut down cost, as my dad is flying back to the USA for my graduation ceremony from Qatar, and then with us to Germany the next day. This is obvilously going to cost quite a bit. My parents would like to stay in Hostles as much as possible..How much does the average night in a hostle cost? Any suggestions for learning French? My local community college only has a class on tape, and my highschool is full up. ( I go to both college and high school) I've taken 3 years of Spanish, and my friend thinks I could skip to the 2nd year French class. Thanks so much for the suggestions!
Jenn <email>
Edgewood, WA USA Tue 11/15/2005

Travel Insurance
This company was recommended by several people on The Thorn Tree:

http://www.worldnomads.com

I purchased travel insurance from this company for my recent trip to Europe.
JB
USA Tue 11/15/2005

cell phone rental
I looked into renting a cell phone for our trip to Italy this past summer, and ultimately decided to buy a $49 phone from mobal.com. The per-minute charges are high (cheapest is $1.25/min), but when I did the math, to me it seemed like the better deal because 1) I used it pretty much as an emergency-only phone, and 2) now I have the phone, so I can use it again on subsequent trips.
USA Tue 11/15/2005

Travel insurance
Hi, does anyone have any recommendations for a travel insurance policy? I'm going to be doing a bit of business on my upcoming trip and so I'm brining along things like my laptop that I usually leave at home, and I'm worried about it getting stolen or damaged. Friends have used cheap student policies with loads of strings attached, so I'm hoping to find a more reputable one. Thanks!
Susannah <email>
Santa Monica, CA USA Mon 11/14/2005

Cell Phone Rentals
I traveling to Italy and would like to bring a cell phone along. Is it better (and/or cheaper) to rent one over the internet (~$100, comes with 25 min, then ~15 cents/min). Or wait until I get there and buy one? Has anyone had an experience with this?
WGS <email>
WA USA Mon 11/14/2005

rental gites in France
Just returned from 4 weeks in France - great food, great weather - what's not to like! We rented gites (rural rental homes) in Provence and the Dordogne and highly recommend the process. Went through the "official" site (www.gites-de-france.fr) - all done over the internet. Both homes were exactly as promised ... very clean, equipped and affordable. Example: 2 bedrooms, WC, kitchen, living & dining rooms, towels/sheets, etc, close to town, for $280/week! We highly recommend that people check out gites-de-france.fr.
WA USA Mon 11/14/2005

Night Train from Milan to Paris
LC~~~ the night train arrives in Paris Bercy at 8:23. It should only be a few minute walk to the Bercy Metro station where there are trains every 2 minutes to CDG. It takes about 50 minutes and costs about 8 EUR. You should be able to get to CDG by 9:30, plenty of time (2 1/2 hr) to catch your flight. On the other hand, if on a week day, you will be rush hour comuter traffic.

If you take the connection from Dijon to CDG, you will arrive at 8:30, more than enough time to catch your flight, with absolutely no concerns.

There are, however, a few caveats to the Dijon connection.

First, the night train fare is the same whether you get off in Dijon or go on to Bercy. So, the connection from Dijon to CDG is completely an extra cost. The least fare for that connection is a Prems fare (€25) online from sncf. That is a self print, limited quantanty, non-refundable fare. It is not available anwhere but from French rail. The fare at the station is €41, but you cannot purchase those tickets online from French Rail or Trenitalia. Perhaps you can in Italy. If not, will there be anyone be at the ticket counter in Dijon at 5:30 AM? Rail Europe does sell ticket for that train online for $50 to $60, depending on how far in advance you purchase.

So, the Dijon connection does eliminate almost all concerns about missing your flight, but it comes with a cost penalty and might not be possible to purchase in advance.
CO USA Mon 11/14/2005

CLASSES
Sally: do a google.com search for “Cooking classes Germany” or any other subject or country. I found a lot of them to choose from when I took cooking in Tuscany one year.
MAREEANNE
CHICAGO, USA Mon 11/14/2005

campervan rental
I'm looking for a website to call up for renting a Westfalia-type campervan in France from a reliable company.
Blair <email>
Victoria, B.C. Canada Mon 11/14/2005

R - House Exchanges
Thank you for the info!
K
MA USA Mon 11/14/2005

Paris during the riots
I just returned from 9 days in Paris, all during which the riots were taking place. Our hotel was out of the city, near Disneyland, so we used the subways and RER extensively everyday and travelled thru some of the areas involved (unknown to us until we were back in the USA). We were barely aware any trouble was going on, the french media did not give it much mention (of course, our not speaking French probably contributed to our lack of info as well :). I was out alone in the city every night and felt completely safe and never had any trouble while there or on the trains. Contrary to much of what I read, all the locals and storekeepers I met were very friendly and helpful. Paris is truly a lovely place to visit, it was my first time and I'll definitely go back someday.
Diane <email>
Bowdoinham, Maine USA Mon 11/14/2005

New Year's in Italy
My husband and I are traveling to Rome Dec. 27 - Jan. 5th. We fly into Rome and plan on visiting Venice, Florence and CT. Does anyone have a recommendation for a city/lodging to spend New Year's Eve and Day? I initially thought of Venice or Florence, but would greatly appreciate some feedback.
Brooke <email>
Dallas, TX USA Mon 11/14/2005

Lodging in Cashel and Galway
From my experience, hostels associated with Independent Holiday Hostels of Ireland are well-maintained and a good value. So while I haven't stayed in either Cashel or Galway myself, I'll give you a few choices. Cashel: O'Brien's Holiday Lodge (www.cashel-lodge.com) and Cashel Holiday Hostel (www.cashelhostel.com). Galway: Kinlay House (www.kinlayhouse.ie) and Barnacles Quay Street House (www.barnacles.ie). These hostels are recommended by both Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 11/14/2005

Tours of the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher
The Lonely Planet Ireland guidebook lists two tour companies in Galway that both do a combined Burren/Cliffs of Moher tour. They are Lally Coaches (www.lallytours.com) and O'Neachtain Tours (www.galway.net/pages/oneachtain-tours/index.shtml). The book says that O'Neachtain has daily tours year-round. (If Lally does the same, the book doesn't mention it.)
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 11/14/2005

lodging
I know I just posted, but I just remebered whatelse I needed to ask. Does anyone have any suggestions on where to stay in either Cashel or Galway? My friend and I are looking to spend hopefully *crossed fingers* under $60 each per night.
Megan <email>
Appleton, WI USA Mon 11/14/2005

Burren tours
I am going to be in Ireland this winter with a friend. We want to take a day tour of the Burren one day while we are in Galway. But we don't know which company to go with. If anyone has any suggestions that would be soo helpful. And also, we are too young to rent a car so we need to do this through a tour company.
Megan <email>
Appleton, WI USA Mon 11/14/2005

Classes
Does anyone know of a good resource for finding classes to take while on vacation in Europe? My mom and I are planning a trip for this coming summer, and we want to spend at least a month exploring Europe, and we thought a class would occupy our time beyond sight-seeing and keep us connected to people.
Sally <email>
Royal Oak, MI USA Mon 11/14/2005

Great vacation
Just returned from five weeks in Europe. Visited Berlin, Prague, Salzburg, Vienna, Venice, Munich, Antibes and Paris. Wow! Had the time of my life. Biggest problem I had was I had bought RS's backpack (it weighed in at only 22 lbs - I tried to get under 20 :() - bought wheels in Berlin the 2nd day - backpack killed me. Other little things to know - my clothes (even though lightweight) had a hard time drying some nights (Vienna was very humid, wet and rainy there which didn't help. Lost a pair of pants I'd hung out in Rome to dry on the clothesline (2nd story up) - little store was downstairs. Asked the lady the next day and sure enough - she had my pants :). Couldn't believe how many well-behaved dogs were all over Europe and they were everywhere. Another shock was how beautifully everyone dressed. They may have worn jeans but they also wore nice shoes, jackets and scarfs - men and women alike. Could go on and on how beautiful, friendly and wonderful whole trip was - but let me just say this - I'm already saving to go back. Loved the big cities but glad I saw them - want to concentrate on the smaller villages next time. Biot and Antibes was a beautiful area. So very glad we took the train from Rome to French Riviera - scenery was spectacular. Had a wonderful, wonderful tiime and am ready to go home and pack again. Make sure you "love" whatever you take as a jacket - this time of year you'll live in it - glad I found a new leather jacket in Rome :)
Sabrina
Charleston, SC USA Mon 11/14/2005

paris
yeah there is a train it doesn't even take an hour
zach
USA Mon 11/14/2005

CDG to Paris
The RER B line train goes directly from CDG to Gare du Nord (and beyond). From there or at other stations you can connect with other RER lines or metro (subway) lines. The Roissybus goes from CDG to Opera. Air France operates two bus routes from CDG to Paris. One goes to Charles de Gaulle-Etoile and Porte Maillot. The other goes to Gare de Lyon and Gare Montparnasse. For more information, visit the Aeroports du Paris site (www.adp.fr), click on "English" in the upper right-hand corner, and follow the access links. For the RER, metro, and city bus route planner and downloadable maps, go to www.ratp.com. The site is viewable in English.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 11/14/2005

CDG to Paris
Does anyone know if there is a subway line or bus line from CDG to Paris? Thanks!
USA Mon 11/14/2005

Gerona/Dali
When staying in Barcelona is it doable to do both Gerona and Dali in the same day?
bluedenim <email>
canada Mon 11/14/2005

Daisy - Pisa
My husband and I went to Pisa in May. We were staying in a villa in Tuscany just outside of San Gimignano and had a car. We took off one morning with no plan, but when we began seeing signs for Pisa, we decided to go. We stayed for about 1 hour and took our pictures - we parked in a lot a few blocks from all the sites, and it was quite cheap compared to any big city in the US. Everything costs money to go into, even the church, so we decided against it. I'm glad we went, but I'm also glad we did not spend too much time there. We used the rest of the day to drive through some of the hill towns in Tuscany and took a drive along the coast - beautiful! If you have a car, I would highly recommend exploring. It is amazing how much ground you can cover in a car in Tuscany, and you get to stop anywhere your heart desires!
Holly
Chicago, USA Mon 11/14/2005

Krakow, Prague, Dresden Trip Highlights
Just returned from 2-week trip to Krakow, Prague, and Dresden. Hotel comments can be seen on TripAdvisor.com. Here are a few highlights and comments:

Flew PDX-ORD-KRK. LOT Polish was on time, good service, pleasant, and on-time. Krakow--Awesome city, free of tourists, excellent value for your dollar. Hotel Wyspianski "had an accident on 2nd floor" and shipped us over to the RT Monopol. Noisy hotel (groups of kids), clean, probably not stay there again, great location. Saw Auschwitz, Old Town Square, Jewish Quarter (Schindler's List filming), beautiful city. Polish and Czech rail to Prague via Katowice and Ostrava. On time, clean, perfect. Prague a little too westernized with high level of high-end shopping for my taste. Glad I wasn't there in peak tourist season. Hotel Expres good location, little noisy, great front desk. May stay there again. 6-Hour walking tour awesome, Czech National Symphony Orchestra concert excellent, The Magic Flute opera awesome, river cruise fun, excellent value for dollar. Deutsche Bahn rail to Dresden along Elbe River, beautiful trip...modern high-tech train, on time, very high prices in restaurant. Dresden very pretty city on river, about a day's worth of activities including Zwinger museums, Frauenkirche and Hofkirche, VW production facility for production of vehicle very high tech and cool, river cruise relaxing and beautiful. Euro doesn't go very far here. Park Plaza Art o'tel very contemporary and beautiful but rooms not functional. Lufthansa DRS-FRA-PDX with top-notch service and food, on time. Email me if you want futher info at arnietharp@hotmail.com
AT
Portland, OR USA Mon 11/14/2005

Daisy - Pisa side trip
Daisy, Pisa is an easy side trip from Florence, My husband and I did it a couple of years ago. The walk from the train station to the Tower is VERY EASY. It's amazingly not that far. We took an early train and a great time. When you get to the Field of Miracles, find the ticket office first, buy your ticket to climb the tower, then go explore the Duomo and Babistry. Take time to get some great photos on the ground. Enjoy shopping the cheesy tourist booths selling stuff, and enjoy watching all the other people there. It's truly wonderful the first time you get to actuallly see that thing leaning! (the Babistry also leans!)

Don't rush your day in Pisa, enjoy it. Just remember, there isn't anything else really worth seeing there, so just make it a day trip, take your time, wander as long as you like, then head back to Florence, Trains run almost every hour or so.

you might also consider packing a light lunch from a market in Florence, and enjoy it in Pisa!

Just remember, get your ticket to the tower first, it's a timed thing, you show up at the door at the appointment hour to climb the steps! Be prepared for a fun climb---the step lean, it's like being on an amusement ride, but slower!

How much fun to climb the steps that are worn down by the history of mankind climbing to the top of that wonderful piece of architecture!
<email>
USA Mon 11/14/2005

Debbie
I am not sure about regulation, but I will tell you that when i flew from US to Amsterdam, i was not searched at all. I have never been searched the last few months flying and taking trains from country to country. The worst that can happen is they take the cinnamon roll. I'd give it a try. And bring me one, too! I miss cinnamon rolls.
Katy
Holland Mon 11/14/2005

Italy in Mid May
In 2004, we were in Utaly for 38 days beginning on about May 19. The weather was great. We stayed 4 days in Varenna on Lago Como (about 30 km north of Milan) and loved it. Milan is not worth your time. Verona certainly is, ditto Venice,Florence and Rome.If you have time, go to Sorrento and Vesuvio area and Amalfi coast. Buon Viaggi e buona fortuna!!
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport , MA USA Sun 11/13/2005

Dolomites in May
Dave---regarding the Dolomites in May, it depends on whether you want to hike. Some trails should be open in May, but not the higher ones, nor the high refugios. However, the scenery is lovely anytime; once the snow is gone it turns a beautiful green. I know most places are closed in April, but re-open sometime in May. I will check with some of the places I have been myself about opening times and weather, trail conditions, etc. in May and e-mail you. If it's your first time in Italy, there are other places you might want to consider instead---the lake district, etc.
Lura
Seattle, WA USA Sun 11/13/2005

Italy in the Spring
We're planning our first trip to Italy this Spring. At this point we're leaning toward Rick's 22 day recommendations but have the luxury of expanding our trip to about 30 days. Three (admitedly subjective) questions for you veterans: 1) We're tenatively thinking mid-May through mid-June - are there good reasons to go either earlier of later? 2) Any recommendations on best use of the extra time (side trips or staying longer in some locations)? 3) Is it worth going to the Dolomites in May if its before the wildflowers are blooming and the hiking trails are open?
Dave <email>
Portland, OR USA Sun 11/13/2005

Marmaduke's Hostel in York, England
Forget them. I should have just listened to Rick in the first place. Got an answer from Marmaduke's finally. First enquiry was September 11. After repeated requests for information (9/11, 9/15, 10/2, 10/14, 10/21, 10/27, 11/13) and repeated silences from them ("we've been very busy"), I finally got an answer today to whether my group of high school students could book rooms: "After further thought maybe it would be better for you to find alternative accommodations as most of our clientele are adults." If that was truly the answer, could they have told me that in September, not the middle of November?
DonnaC
Arvada, CO USA Sun 11/13/2005

Taxis: CDG to Paris
Barbara--I thought the typical fare was about E50 but according to paris-on-line.com, it's about E38 depending on the traffic/time of day. (If there is a 4th passenger, the fare is higher & each bag in the trunk costs more.) The PariShuttle costs E25 for 1 person, E19 each for 2-4 persons--Hope this helps.
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Sun 11/13/2005

Cathy
I'm not sure how much luggage you're taking, but perhaps traveling light is a good idea!

I think staying in Paris the first two days is a good idea. I agree with the previous posters: I'd hold off on Versailles this time. Don't get me wrong...Versailles is absolutely fabulous. But since you have only three days to explore Paris, you may want to stay in the city.

You do have a lot on your agenda. By postponing Versailles to a different trip (see, there's a great reason for you to return to Paris!), you can spread out your sightseeing and not be running full steam ahead to see everything. And, regardless of your itinerary, you always seem to get distracted. There is just so much Paris has to offer.

The Dormouse House Bed and Breakfast in Villennes-sur-Seine looks wonderful. I'd leave Paris early enough so you will be able to check out this little town. There's an 11th century cathedral, and some of the photos I've seen are beautiful. I like to explore the villages.

On your third day, perhaps your hotel will allow you to store your luggage there for a few hours after check out so you can do some more sightseeing before hopping the train to your bed and breakfast. It's like a 30 minute ride. That way you can get in a few more sights without lugging your suitcases around.

Have fun!
Brandie <email>
KS USA Sun 11/13/2005

Cathy
Having just spent 8 nights in paris in September I agree that you should base yourself out of Paris and as the previous poster stated I think you may want to pass on Versaille. I loved Versaille but with only three days I think you are trying to cram too much into that time. I am a strong believer that to get the feel for Paris you need to plan down time to just wander, enjoy a leisurely break at a cafe. In fact now that I think about it more I would not do versaille this trip. Just enjoy Paris for the beautiful city that it is.
bluedenim
canada Sun 11/13/2005

Paris/Versaille/Villennes sur Seine
Cathy, I agree with "USA" below-- three days is so short, it's better to just stay in Paris. The things you planned for the 3rd day alone can easily fill a whole week! At least start doing that on the first day, and you may very likely decide to skip Versaille and the other place. As beautiful as Versaille is, I regretted taking a day out of my first week-long Paris trip for it.
Fiona
NYC, Sun 11/13/2005

Bus in Pisa
Daisy, In Pisa there is a cheap and frequent bus from the train station to the tower.
USA Sun 11/13/2005

Day (or night trip) from London
Twice we've taken the one hour trip from London and stayed overnight in Cambridge where we attended evensong at Kings' College....definitely one of the "wonders of the world."
Karen <email>
MN USA Sun 11/13/2005

Villennes sur Seine?
Just a thought by why stay in Villennes sur Seine when you only have three nights....would it not be better to just base yourself out of paris. I think you would be happier and able to cover more ground
USA Sun 11/13/2005

Taxi fare from CDG
Does anyone have a rough idea of what the cost of a taxi from CDG to Paris central might be?
Barbara
Frisco, TX USA Sun 11/13/2005

good maps Paris/Versaille/Villennes sur Seine
I have decided on my original plan to go to Paris for 3 days during my 10 day London stay. I would like to stay at Dormouse House B & B in Villennes sur Seine one night and Hotel Cluny Sorbornne for twobeing nearer attractions. I am having difficulty finding a good site for mapping this out. I was going to see the Lovure on Mon, stay at Dormouse Monday night. (just realized that means I will have my luggage with me unless I travel out to Villenes sur Seine which I think is 20 min. train one way - I loose a good 1-2 hrs doing thi) Go to Versaille on Tuesday, head into paris to the Hotel Cluny Sorbornne see Champ-Elsees, Arc de Triomphe, Msuem de Orsay, Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower on Wed. Leave Thursday morning for London. I'm thinking I should reverse this and check into the Hotel Cluny Sorbornne upon arrival, visit Lovure, sites in Paris etc on Monday and Tuesday, then head to Versaille Wednesday and Dormouse House B & B on Wednesday night. Does this sound reasonable? How do I get from Gare du Nord to Villenes sur Seine or find a web site to help me? Thank you very much!!
cathy garcia <email>
covina, ca USA Sun 11/13/2005

SE Asia
Hello fellow travelers. I am planning a 3 week trip to Singapore and Malaysia in February. I have never been to Asia and would appreciate any tips on favorite places, transportation between countries and lodging. I am a typical "Rick Steve's" type of traveler so like to be centrally located but in smaller, less expensive places with more character. Thanks in advance for your advice! jp
Jana Pagaran <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sun 11/13/2005

S/U-Bahn travel in Munich
You can see a very good map of the Munich S/U-Bahn system at http://www.mvv-muenchen.de/web4archiv/objects/download/schnellbahnnetz_041212.pdf
<email>
CO USA Sun 11/13/2005

Bayern Ticket
Paula, The Bayern ticket is good only in Bayern and to certain stations (Salzburg, Kufstein, Garmisch to Pfronten) where the rail line is operated by DB. On German Rail regional trains, you can use the Bayern ticket from Munich to Salzburg, Salzburg to Kufstein, Mittenwald to Garmisch, and Garmisch to Munich. You will have to buy point to point tickets for your travel in Austria - from Kufstein to Innsbruck (€13,40 pP) and Innsbruck to Mittenwald (€8,90 pP).

If you are going from Innsbruck to Munich in one day with a stop in Garmisch, buy the point to point ticket from Innsbruck to Mittenwald and use the Bayern ticket the rest of the way. However, if you are spending the night in Garmisch it is less expensive to just buy a ticket from Innsbruck to Garmisch for €11,90 per person.

Write to me for suggestions about where to buy the tickets.

As for getting to the airport, it depends on where you are staying in Munich. Even at that hour, there are 3 to 4 S-Bahns per hour leaving the Hauptbahnhof for the airport. The trip takes 41 minutes. From the Bahnhof, the trains go alternately west through Laim or east through Leuchtenbergring, so you can access them from any station on the main S-Bahn trunk line through Munich. Find the schedule on the Bahn website, http://reiseauskunft.bahn.de/bin/query.exe/en. Use "Muenchen hbf" and "Flughafen Terminal 1, Muenchen"
<email>
CO USA Sun 11/13/2005

Day Trip to Pisa
Daisy – I did a side trip to Pisa from Florence this past May and really enjoyed the day. It was easy and inexpensive by train. The walk from the train station to the Field of Miracles outlined in Rick’s guidebook took about a half hour. It’s level, and the walking is easy. A few hours were adequate to see the sights, so you might consider combining Pisa with a visit to Lucca. Here’s what I did: after breakfast at hotel, morning train to Lucca (about 1 hour) where I strolled through the historical city center, visited a couple of sights and then relaxed over a nice lunch, caught midday train to Pisa (about 20 minutes), visited Field of Dreams (toured Duomo), caught late afternoon train back to Florence (about 1 hour), dinner in Florence. It made for a full but not exhausting day. The train tickets were less than 10 Euro. If you follow my route, buy only the ticket to Lucca in Florence. Then buy a Florence via Pisa ticket when you return to the train station in Lucca (good for 6 hours from validation time and less expensive than two separate tickets). You could do this trip in reverse, but I found Lucca and then Pisa to be a better fit with the train schedules. I used the Trenitalia website to check times and plan my day.
Frank
Wilmington, DE USA Sun 11/13/2005

10 deays in London
I agree with Kathy, you won't run out of things to do in London. I have visited the city eight times since 2001 and still haven't seen everything. Antoher day trip to consider would be to Disneyland Paris. Eurostar has direct trains from Waterloo to Cinderella's Castle in about three hours.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 11/13/2005

10 days in London
Cathy, You could just stay in London - there's enough to do/see there for more than 10 days. Or day trips - Bath/Stonehenge, Brighton, Canterbury, Cambridge/Oxford. Edinburgh would be a good choice, or you could stop earlier at York which has plenty of history too, including medieval buildings, a fine cathedral and museums. You could maybe day trip to Durham (Norman cathedral) from York. You could also train or plane from London to Brussels/Bruges/Amsterdam.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Sun 11/13/2005

Help! Where to spend 10 days in/near London end of Nov?
Have 10 days to spend in or around London, Nov 23 - Dec. 3rd. Was going to go to Paris for 3 of them, but rethinking because of cost, language barriers, riots, etc...Thinking of train to Edinburgh or ? Does anyone have any suggestions? Help! Time is running out. Mother and son age 25, love history. Thank you
Cathy Garcia <email>
Covina, CA USA Sat 11/12/2005

Pisa- with car, or without?
For Daisy- Will you have a car, or be using trains? Pisa is a fairly easy train ride from Florence. We spent 10 euro and the taxi driver from the train station drove us to the tower and waited while we did the obligatory photos. Guidebooks claim it's a mile or so, and walkable, but even as in- shape walkers it would've been a haul and we had another train to catch. He was very proud of the city and pointed out some sights on the loop back. For us that was plenty- you might consider Siena or some of the other hill towns, depending on your mode of transportation and time constraints.
USA Sat 11/12/2005

My husband and I will be traveling between the following cities: Munich,Salzburg,Innsbruck,Garmisch and back to Munich. Can the Bayern Ticket be used for all the above locations? Also, our flight back home is on 12/26 at7:30AM what's the best way to get to the airport if we need to be there 2hrs before our flight (5:30AM)?
Paula <email>
Chicago, USA Sat 11/12/2005

Ice Available at hotels in Rome
I am traveling to Rome on Wed with tennis elbow which requires daily icing. Does anyone know if I will I be able to get ice at the hotels or will there be a freezer available for my ice pack? Thanks!
johnene <email>
panama city, fl USA Sat 11/12/2005

Home-baked contraband??
I'm staying with a friend in Florence who has requested that I bring her a cinnamon roll from here in the US. Does anyone know if this will make it through Frankfurt and Florence baggage inspections? Can't seem to find info anywhere on-line. I see baked goods can come this way, but see nothing on the other direction.
Debbie <email>
Gilmanton, NH USA Sat 11/12/2005

Daisy - Pisa
Daisy - Pisa certainly does have some first class sights. Unfortunately, they are surrounded by mobs of tourists (literally). If you don't mind what could be the most commercialized, crass mass tourism experience in Europe, then it's worth a quick look. In addition to the famous tower, there are a couple of other beautiful buildings adjacent. Assuming you can get a slot for the climb up the tower, the place can be done in fairly short order - certainly less than a whole day. Hope that helps.
David
Seattle, WA USA Sat 11/12/2005

Re: Paris Thoughts
FYI, for those still seeking info: http://www.paris-eiffel-tower-news.com/editorials/paris-editorial-is-paris-really-burning.htm
Daniel M. Perez <email>
Miami Beach, FL USA Sat 11/12/2005

Little Luxembourg
One great place to visit is the U.S. Military Cemetery. It's only few miles out of the city and is where Gen. Patton is buried.
BB
NY, USA Sat 11/12/2005

Super Bowl in Amsterdam
Most all of the pubs in the Red Light District will be showing it. Pubs in Amsterdam have chalk boards in their windows which have a schedule of which sporting events they are showing that week (in english).
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sat 11/12/2005

Super Bowl in Amsterdam?
Does anyone know if there is a place to watch the Super Bowl in Amsterdam? We're looking at going there at that time but don't want to miss the big game.
Quint <email>
Denver, CO USA Sat 11/12/2005

Pisa
Hubby and I will be in Rome, Florence, Pompeii for about 10 days in April. Is a side trip to Pisa worth a day?
Daisy
USA Sat 11/12/2005

paris thoughts
one thing to remember about Paris. The city is not like most North American cities in that most of the poor are not centered in the heart of the city. Rather the poor are located more in the suburbs.

The demonstrations that have been discussed are peaceful and they are against the rioters. I just read a poll that said 3 out of 4 French support the government and the police in how they are chosing to deal with the riots, this is including deportation.

I know that in the Northern Marais there was one car that was burned out but that was the only incident in Paris proper itself. Probably more of an isolated incident and it was before they began with the curfews. Also the curfews have not been set for Paris.

I am on an email list from a site that does weekly emails from Paris and the owner of this site stated that if it was not for the one car attack in the Marais and if it was not for the news they would not even know about the riots.

So I think as long as you are aware of your surroundings, and where you are during the night I think you will be fine. Even if you are in the marais at night which really is a safe area I would not be too concerned and I would let that one incident there concern you too much.

Paris really is a safe city, the police there really do not put up with much, they have very strict laws.
bluedenim
canada Sat 11/12/2005

Tallinn in November
Hi, I am thinking of spending a few days in Tallinn in late November in between stays in London and Stockholm and am wondering if anyone has been to Estonia at this time of the year. Tallinn is supposed to be very beautiful and historic, but I'm concerned it might be hard to find a room and a freezing in the winter. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!Thanks. : )
Susannah <email>
Santa Monica, CA USA Sat 11/12/2005

Paris
I am glad for the comforting advice from people such as Stan, but I am still anxious. We go in a few days and I am concerned what those people will do next. Like when they get done buring their own neighborhoods will it dawn on them to go someplace else such as into Paris proper? What do the people who travel there say?
Carla
Mesa, USA Sat 11/12/2005

House Exchanges
We have done four house exchanges, two using exchange services. Our experiences have been very positive. Last summer we spent four weeks in a Copenhagen apartment, super clean, all modern conveniences, very good car included. We returned to a very clean, undamaged house. The two exchange services we've used are Intervac and Homelink. Both let you browse their listings online. You need to join to get contact info. We chose on the basis of which seemed to offer the most listings in places we wanted to go and of people who wanted to come to our area. If you do a web search on house exchanges you can find several other agencies as well. Homelink offers advice on their site about setting up the exchange. There is also at least one book available just on that topic. A couple of pointers seem especially important: 1) If anything seems iffy in the course of negotiating the exchange, drop it and 2) Get lots of pictures.
R
CA USA Sat 11/12/2005

LITTLE LUXEMBOURG
Kellye: do a google.com search for “Luxembourg attractions” and pick out the ones you want to see. We passed through one day, but found very little to see there.
H.A.Z.
NYC, USA Sat 11/12/2005

TRANSPORT CROATIA TO TURKEY
Linda: Do what I do. Search google for “Discount air fares Croatia to Dalaman”. Your ferry ride may take too long. Trouble is that discount air fares are very rare in that part of the world.
NANCY C
DALLAS, USA Sat 11/12/2005

Transport Croatia to Turkey
I am planning a week of walking in Croatia and 2 days later a week of walking on the Lycian Way in Turkey. I will need to get from Split or Dubrovnik in Croatia to Dalaman airport in Turkey. I will have all day Sunday and most of Monday to get there. This will be Oct of 06. Have not made the walk reservations yet, while I work on making sure I can get there. Does anyone have any ideas? Ferry would be great but air is fine too.
Linda <email>
USA Sat 11/12/2005

Home Exchange - Good Experiences?
We're planning a trip to Sweden and Finland next summer. We tried to keep costs down on our trip to Finland this summer, but even though we stayed in hostels, it was still very expensive. I have been thinking about doing a home exchange for next summer, but am kind of anxious about having strangers in my house for 2 weeks. Has anyone here ever done a home exchange? Can you reccommend a reputable service? Any advice/warnings? Was it worth the money saved? Thank you.
K
MA USA Sat 11/12/2005

Stan I agree Paris is a very very safe city.
USA Fri 11/11/2005

Paris Riots
There may be protesters camped out at the Eiffel Tower but there are no rioters in Paris. There are always protests and protesters in Paris, it is a common, everyday occurrence. Paris is very, very safe. It is more safe than any city in the US.
Stan
NYC, NY USA Fri 11/11/2005

Little Luxembourg
Kellye, I loved Luxembourg! The capital is stunning, perched above two rivers with a neat history museum, and if you can make it to the country there are some fab castles, nice walks & good hotel/restaurants. Try the Bisdorf (http://www.hotel-bisdorff.lu/). More info on my website - http://wilhelmswords.com/faq/index.html
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Fri 11/11/2005

Little Luxembourg
Has anyone been to Luxembourg? We would like to go through there on our way to Brussels, Bruges and Amsterdam, but I'm having trouble finding any info on this little country. We'll likely just pass through for a night, any recommendations on places to stay or must sees?
Kellye <email>
Dallas, TX USA Fri 11/11/2005

Night train from Milan to Paris
In checking the SNCF website I found that you can change trains in Lyon and go direct to CDG. Your train from Milan arrives in Lyon at 5:39 with the connection departing at 6:30 and arriving at CDG about 8:30. This would seem to be a much better way to go.
Jeff
USA Fri 11/11/2005

Paris Riots
Just heard on CNN that the protesters are camped out at the Eiffel Tower..blocking that sight. The riots seem to have abated around the country, but now there is a big protest in Paris.

Watch CNN or call the US government to make sure it's advised to travel to France/Paris right now...or within the next few weeks.

If you are going over Thanksgiving, hopefully the unrest will have quieted down and the government will start to help these people!
USA Fri 11/11/2005

Who's been to Sardinia?
We're thinking about spending a week on Sardinia in late Sept/early Oct 2006. Rick has never been there so I'm hoping someone here has experienced Sardinia and can tell me about it. I assume you need a car. What are bus and train travel like? What are the best areas to visit? Which towns are "back doors"? Any good apartment (with kitchen) recomendations? We'll probably arrive by ferry in Olbia and continue on by ferry from Calgari to Sicily - has anyone taken these ferries and how was it?
Gerry <email>
Victoria, BC Canada Fri 11/11/2005

Re: Paris riots
I checked again with people in the city, and things within the touristy center are fine, business as usual. I'll keep checking with them up until right before I leave. As of right now, I have confirmed reservations at the Hotel Vieux-Marais and cannot wait to leave!

I have heard a lot about being careful at night in certain Metro stations, but no specifics. Can anyone supply names of stations best avoided late at night?
Daniel M. Perez <email>
Miami Beach, Florida USA Fri 11/11/2005

Paris riots
For those contemplating a trip to Paris in the near future, I work for the military in Germany, and it's recommended we don't go to Paris and if we do stay "off the roadways and around CDG airport." The US State Dept has issued a Public Announcement till 7 Dec. You can check further info on http://travel.state.gov/travel. This info should in no way be construed as my recommendation to not go to Paris, I went to London the week after the bombings in July! Personally, I would still go just be cautious and be careful about where I go after dark.
Germany Fri 11/11/2005

Lucky Girl-1 day in London
If you like history, Westminster is wonderful, get the audio tour. It will probably be cold in January, so dress warmly. I never needed my long underwear, I just ducked into a shop if I got too cold! Have fun, London is wonderful!
USA Fri 11/11/2005

Apartment in Paris
Has anyone ever rented an apartment in Paris for their vacation? I'm traveling to Paris next week with my family and we rented an apartment in Montmartre through Paris Attitude. We went last Thanksgiving and stayed at the Royal Phare Hotel. We were thinking about a hotel again but found that for the same price we could rent a much larger apartment. I was just wondering if anyone could share any of their experiences about staying in a Parisian apartment.
Charles <email>
St. Petersburg, FL USA Fri 11/11/2005

And Lake Como for the ladies
Being 53 years old, I'm past the age where it's fun to try on clothes. However, the silk scarves in Bellagio can't be beat. That's what the sister-in-laws are getting for Christmas. I was told that Como is especially known for silk.
Karen <email>
MN USA Fri 11/11/2005

Re: M&K, Mosel, Rhine
The Rhine can be done by train and boat fairly easily, but the Mosel is best by Car. The train lines from Koblenz, up the Mosel are up away from the river. There is also a boat that goes up the Mosel, not sure of stops, frequency, etc. though. A plan might be to hit some of the Rhine sights by boat and train, rent a car in Koblenz, and meander up the Mosel.
Paul <email>
IA USA Fri 11/11/2005

Varenna is Terrrrific
We have read much about there being "nothing to do " if you are in Varenna. Nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, if you must constantly feed your museum/church viewing addiction, Varenna has nothing. If you must go to amusement parks or you want crowds surrounding you, there is nothing. But if you want to walk at dusk or in evening along a marvelous lakeside or shop in tiny stores where quality always trumps quantity or take ferry rides to islands with nobody on them (begging for picnics, lovemaking and whatever else you can think of), then Varenna is your kind of place. We were there at beginning of June in 2004. I suppose there are more Americans there later but why care if there are Americans there? Isnt your vacation a time for you to concentrate on what YOU are doing and not what others are? Isnt it also a time for relaxation? Doesnt that mean "things to do" should be the least of your concerns?
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport , MA USA Fri 11/11/2005

Palace in Scandinavia
I have memories of touring a palace in a Scandinavian city and being given soft slippers to wear during the tour.

Can someone help me remember where this was/is?
Hope
Tampa, FL USA Fri 11/11/2005

Re: Rhine, Mosel & Brugge
I recently returned from a month in Europe and have posted photos including many from the Rhine and Mosel Valleys and also of Brugge. (I am in the process of uploading photos from Ghent and Cochem today). If you think you'd like to see them to help you get a feel for where ya might wanna go, you can check 'em out at: http://www.picturetrail.com/bepineurope Have fun, you'll love it there! :-)
Bob C. <email>
N Little Rock, AR USA Fri 11/11/2005

Night Train from Milan to Paris
Do I have enough time to catch an international flight? I'm taking an night train Artesia 219 from Milan to Paris Bercy (arrived at 8:23am). 1. What will be the fastest way to get to CDG Airport Terminal 1? 2. Will I be in time to catch an international flight back departing 11:55am.

Thanks.
LC
USA Thu 11/10/2005

sitges and barcelona
Blue Denim, I'd do it the other way around, more time in barcelona than in sitges. Barcelona is one of the most vibrant, exciting cities in Europe. There are lots of wonderful museums . . .historical and art, from ancient to modern. Seeing the Gaudi sites alone could take a couple of days. The food is great. There are many opportunities to enjoy strolling and people watching. I've been there twice, the second time for two weeks; and I'd go back in a heartbeat. Sitges is a beach resort.
RK
CA USA Thu 11/10/2005

Eastern Sicily, fear of heights
Okay, I was in eastern Sicily in August AND have a big fear of heights, so here are my comments! We flew into Catania, which is at sea level. From there we climbed ever higher- we took a bus north to Taormina (Dizzying heights- unless you stay on the beach). We also went to the top of Mt. Etna. Very tall, to say the least! (Then on to the Aeolian Islands, but I don't think you will be doing that in January.) I was with my daughters and forced myself to do it all- I just shut my eyes when the dropoffs got too much to deal with and put my trust in the driver and bus and the brakes! If someone can give you information about Siracusa and south of Catania, maybe you can head in that direction! I wouldn't have wanted to miss a minute! I find keeping my back to something is a big help for the phobia. On the crater of Etna with no back support in view, I sat down, instead and just stayed back from the edge....the cable car was daunting, but they just laughed at me all the way up and down. Have a wonderful trip!
Karen
USA Thu 11/10/2005

Rhine, Mosel & Brugge
We are spending a week on the Rhine and Mosel rivers, Would like to stay a few days on each and do day trips to the other towns. Any suggestions on which towns to stay and car or train best as transport. Also staying in Brugge. Has anyone been here? Cheers.
M&K <email>
HAMILTON, NSW aUSTRALIA Thu 11/10/2005

Stockholm
I visited Stockholm over the summer and used the "A la carte" service. It is recomended by Rick and Lonely Planet. It worked exactly as advertised; I was able to stay in a 5-Star hotel for only 99 USD a night! The Stockholm card isn't that big a deal anymore, the top two sites (City Hall and Vasa) don't accept it, and most of the rest of the sites around the city are free anyway. But it was very useful as a transit pass.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Thu 11/10/2005

Rome to Monte Cassino
You can get to Cassino by train. There are taxis in Cassino, but I do not know if they will take you up to the abbey. I wouldn't spend much time in Cassino itself, there's nothing there but shops. A friend of mine told me that the origional city was completely destroyed during WW2. When it was rebuilt it became a more modern city. It has a population of approx. 50,000, I believe. My great-grandmother's family is from Aquino which is only 20 minutes north of Cassino. While visting my cousins last year, we went to see Monte Cassino. The views are incredible. There is also a Polish cemetary which can be seen from the abbey. You can walk around the cemetary as well.
Sarah
PA USA Thu 11/10/2005

sitges and barcelona what to do
I am debating about how many nights to spend in Barcelona and how many in Sitges. I was thinking 5 nights in Sitges with a day trip to Monserat. Then 4 nights in Barcelona with a day trip to Dali. I just wonder if 4 nights in Barcelona is enough to see everything and do a day trip to Dail?
bluedenim
vancouver, bc canada Thu 11/10/2005

Dress clothes for men
I think "Doc's" means Dockers, as in the pants.
USA Thu 11/10/2005

Fear of heights - misunderstood
Being in an airplane at 35,000 feet does not give the same sensation as standing on a balcony of a 6-story building when you have a fear of heights. It's hard to understand it unless you experience it.
FL USA Thu 11/10/2005

Fear of heights
Barbara: How are you getting there? If you don't have a problem with being in an airplane at 35,000 feet you shouldn't have a problem with being anywhere on the ground.
Jeff
USA Thu 11/10/2005

Meant to say "Monreale and Palermo are NOT very high" Sorry, typed too fast.
USA Thu 11/10/2005

Fear of Height in Sicily
We were in Sicily in May, did a bike tour on the western side of the island. We've been to italy 3x before and toured a lot of the hilltop towns.

unless you are climbing a mountain, I don't understand why you would have a fear of heights. Just stay away from the outerwall of any walled hill top towns and you should be fine, but then you will miss the glory of being in Italy - the view from the towns to the valley below.

In Sicily, on the western end, the highest point for us was the town of Erice. other than that, it was rolling hills and very quiet. Monreale and Palermo are very high, both being right on the ocean.

There are no "mountain" passes to drive through either.

Anyone else out there that has been on the eastern side of the island to advise these people?
USA Thu 11/10/2005

Re: Fear of Heights in Ireland
Hello, Tara. My wife and I honeymooned in Ireland in 2002, and we drove all around the island (you can see our web journal at http://www.dmperez.com/travel/ireland ). You are going to have a wonderful time in the Emerald Isle.

As far as the issue of heights, there are a couple places you may want to watch out. The main place with a truly dramatic view is the Cliffs of Moher. There is a parking lot, and the observation area is far from the edge enough that I don't think it should trigger his acrophobia. Just stick to the area with rails and it should be fine; this is an area you cannot miss.

In the north, In the Giant's Causeway, just use the road to go down to the causeway and avoid the path that snakes down the cliffside (it gave me pause).

As far as roads, I don't remember 100%, but it was all more or less ok, except in Dingle. Getting in and out of the Dingle Peninsula does involve driving by pretty dramatic roads with very sharp curves at times. The views are amazing, but they may pose a problem for your husband. We entered Dingle from the east and left via the Connor Pass to the north, and while the roads were not narrow, they were high at times. I don't think you should miss Dingle at all, but be aware of the situation. Perhaps you two can switch driving in and out of Dingle, or go slower. Trust me that the rewards are worth it. Other than that, in Donegal, in the northwest, the roads cut trough the mountains, but they are nice and wide for the most part.

Hope this helps and have a great vacation!
Daniel M. Perez <email>
Miami Beach, Florida USA Thu 11/10/2005

FEAR OF HEIGHTS
Barbara: I have been to Sicily, but I don’t know what you mean by your question. I would like to answer your question, but give us more informaiton.
MAREE
DALLAS, TX USA Thu 11/10/2005

Fear of Heights - Sicily
We are traveling to Sicily in January. We are uncomfortable, as is 'have a fear of' heights. Any thoughts on whether this visit will be problematic?
Barbara
Frisco, TX USA Thu 11/10/2005

Fear of Heights?
My family and I will be driving around Ireland this coming March. 3 of us love the idea of dramatic views, but my husband has a very severe fear of heights. I'm wondering what we should absolutely avoid, for his sake. Of the spots with dramatic views are there some that have a not-so-dramatic place (parking lot, etc.) where he could wait, if the rest of the family really didn't want to miss it. Most importantly (since he's our driver) are there any roads that we should definitely avoid? The plane ride is going to be hard enough for him, I want him to enjoy the rest of our trip!!

Thanks! Tara
Tara <email>
Stratford, CT USA Thu 11/10/2005

Vernazza or Varenna?
Lago di Como! As a native of Seattle recommending travel plans to another person from Seattle, imagine Lake Chelan if it were in Italie. You could hike to Zermatt if you were really motivated from the mountain towns such as Rimella. I would check out Lago Maggiore over Como and stay in Verbania.
Michael Ubezzi <email>
Seattle, WA USA Thu 11/10/2005

Stockholm
Has anyone dealt with a company that offers packages in Stockholm called "A la carte"? They sell hotel rooms and give the Stockholm card as part of the deal.
Barry Weiss
Tampa, FL USA Thu 11/10/2005

Rome to Naples
I need some info on how to get from Romes to Montecassino in Italy. Montecassino is a big World War II abbey near Caserts. My grandparents town is 20 minutes south of Montecassino. I want to visit the town when I am there but not sure the easiest way to get there. Can anyone help? Thanks
Lois <email>
Providence, RI USA Thu 11/10/2005

Varenna or Vernazza
Lura: I have been to all the villages of the Cinque Terre (3 times) and to Varenna as well - but my vote would definitely be for Stresa on Lake Maggiore.

When we were in Varenna, the clientele was entirely American - we felt as if we'd never left home. Scenic Lake Maggiore, however, is visited mostly by locals, not by the tourist hordes.

There's also more to do in scenic Stresa than in Varenna; take the ferries from Stresa out to the islands in Lake Maggiore (a don't-miss-it experience); take the boat up the lake to Switzerland and the scenic train ride back to Stresa; go up the mountain behind Stresa; in the evening, stop in for a glass of wine at Al Buscion ("the cork" in the local dialect - the owner speaks fluent English) - and don't forget that Milan is only an hour away by train. (Stresa is well described in Rick's Italy book.)

After the obligatory trip across the lake to Bellagio, we felt that Varenna was rather small and boring compared to Stresa.
David Flurrie <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Wed 11/09/2005

Another vote for CT!
When you said you enjoy hiking, that clinched it for me to add my opinion! We stayed this past summer in Monterroso. It was August, and yes, crowded, but we didn't see any other Americans. Lots of all kinds of Europeans. The hiking was amazing! If you stay in Vernazza or Corniglia it will be less crowded, and they were charming. Be careful to not rely on the very last train there or back- we found them to be unreliable. You will have an amazing time!!!
USA Wed 11/09/2005

Re: Como or Vernazza
I cannot speak for Lake Como, not made it there yet, I will say though, for late June and July the Cinque Terre (been there three times) is wonderful, and while Vernazza is certainly the star, the crowds can be crushing. I suggest looking at Riomaggiore, Corniglia, or Manarola. It is amazing what difference you can find in these towns in lesser crowds.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 11/09/2005

Paris Opera
My friends and I attended a chamber music performance at the Opera last March. I wore a pair of nice black slacks that I wore other times in Paris. I also brought a nice blouse and a pair of dressy open-toed sandals. One of my friends wore black pants, a pretty sweater and nice boots. We didn't feel out of place since there were people wearing jeans to the performance. We were able to go to the Opera a few days before and purchase box seats for a mere 20 Euros each. Not too shabby.
Brandie <email>
USA Wed 11/09/2005

Vernazza gets my vote!
Much more to do in the CT! you can hike, get on a boat, ride the train. The towns are small, but each one is unique. Lucca is a 1 3/4 hour train ride, and a great way to spend one day if you want off the coast. The food is wonderful in the CT, great sea food and PESTO! Plus Lemoncello!

If you like active vacation the CT is the place for you. It can also be restful, and the ocean is beautiful.

If you think it would be touristy....all of Italy is now touristy, thanks to Rick and this board! Most of the questions, comments are about Italy, it's where the US is traveling to now....as well as the Germans.

June/July is top travel season, so no matter where you go, you will have crowds...it's a point of fact. Don't let that stop you from going and enjoying the beautiful country and wonderful Italian people!
USA Wed 11/09/2005

Vernazza or Varenna
Wow, this is something I know about! I was to Vernazza in 2004 and Varenna in 2005. I would prefer Vernazza because there is more to do. In the Cinque Terre you can always hike between villages. If you're out of shape, you can do the easier ones & if you're in great shape you can hike to the top plus between villages. There's more streets to wander around in too. You can always take a train to another village & explore that. There's more eating possibilities too...although I had great food in Varenna at the Albergo Olivedo.

In Varenna there's not a lot to do....which is fine if you're up for rest & relaxation or over 80 like my parents. But there's not a lot of tourists either--or as many in the Cinque Terre. You can take the boat over to Bellagio and look around. Or you could take a day trip to Milan. The scenery around both places is great. I, being reallly landlocked in Minnesota, preferred Vernazza. But I met some tourists there from Australia. They left after not finding a hotel & said they can see ocean any day!

It's your pick. E-mail me if you want to see some photos.
Karen <email>
MN USA Wed 11/09/2005

Vernazza or Varenna?
I have a question for anyone who has been to both---or for anyone who has been to one or the other and has a strong opinion (positive or negative). If you had 3 days/nights to spend on the Cinque Terre or on Lago di Como, which would you choose? We will be in Italy late June/early July, but will only have time for one of these two places. I know---we could stay a night at one and two nights at the other, but we prefer to stay put for three nights, and get to know a place. The things we most enjoy are wallking and hiking (including strenuous hikes), beautiful scenery, good food and wine, a bit of history, and friendly local residents. So which might be better for us? I am asking because a good friend recently returned from Italy; they said Cinque Terre is too touristy and highly overrated. But they day-tripped there from an agritourismo outside Lucca, and did not spend the night, so they saw the worst of the tourist action and enjoyed none of the evening charm---if there is any. On the other hand, they loved Varenna and Lake Como---but maybe because they spent several nights there. So I'd like to hear other opinions. Thank you.
Lura
Seattle, WA USA Wed 11/09/2005

Drew I agree
I agree with paul that is way too much to do in two weeks. In two weeks chose two places and maybe a day trip or two during that time. We just got back from a month trip and we spent 8 nights in paris and honestly we could have spent another 8 nights. paris is diverse, and so much to see and do...you can go and do a whirlwind trip but you honestly will either just touch the main sites, be stressed about time, or spend the whole time in a museum and not really experience the city. We did 5 nights in London and I could have used more there as well. But there is just something about Paris to get the real feel of this amazing city you need more time. We are planning our next trip to europe and it will only be two weeks and we are doing paris, barcelona and Sitges. There is no way I would even consider adding anything else, and I have just spent 8 nights in paris. Plan too much and you will regret it and be stressed.
bluedenim
vancouver, bc canada Wed 11/09/2005

Re: Drew, Itinerary
Too many places, skip everything, just do two weeks in Paris, in fact only go to the Louvre, nowhere else, in two weeks you can't even see all of the Louvre. Ok, I was being a little overboard. Accept one fact, you will never be able to see all of either a single place, or all of a different place every day, assume you will have another chance to visit. You need to figure out what works for you and what pace you are comfortable with. The itinerary mentioned is possible, but it will be the whirlwind tour (I like those sometimes) and really depends what you mean by "France" or "Alps". First, you have a pretty direct route with little backtracking, thats good. Second, sit down and figure out what is the most important so far as places, and then sights, plot out potential overnight spots. Next, figure out the travel time between spots, if it is over 4 to 6 hours between a stop, figure on spending at least two nights there. If the must hit sights in that town get long (In Paris it is easy) then start adding nights. Short travel and minimum sights, maybe just an overnight or whistlestop. This will give you a rough idea of number of nights needed, make sure to add a night or two of "Unplanned". If it is too long and stretching the trip not possible, start cutting, saving those places for the next trip. When cutting, consider lengthy options first, maybe the Alps, maybe France, and you will come up with a nice trip.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 11/09/2005

Lake Como
I was in Lake Como last May for my sister's wedding. You definitely should consider a car if you want to get around at night. Otherwise, we took the bus around the daytime, and even took the bus to Switzerland.

If you want to rent an inexpensive car, rental company Sixth can rent those itty bitty Smart cars for 5 euros a day. It holds 2 people and will get you everywhere and can park in any little space!
Fullerton, CA USA Wed 11/09/2005

Reservation fee
Trenitalia will be making changes to their schedule on Dec 10. Therefore they are not currently showing trains and fares beyond that date. That should change in a few weeks. However, if today's fares are any indication, normal fare is €140 for a bed in a T3 or €105 for a T6. However, the T6 has several "Smart Fares" available. If they haven't sold out, you should be able to get a place in a T6 for €35 - €50 per person.
USA Wed 11/09/2005

RER at CDG
Go to the Aeroports de Paris site, click on "English" in the upper right-hand corner, and then follow the links for access to the airport. Or you can go directly to this page: www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/ADP/en-GB/Passagers/AccesAuxAeroports/AccesARoissy/EnTransportsEnCommuns/parisCDGtcommun.htm? The access links will also give you alternative ways to get from CDG to Paris in case you'd rather not take the RER.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 11/09/2005

How much is Reservation Fee?
If I brought France N italy saver railpass, and I'm traveling from venice to Paris via night train. How much reservation fee will I need to pay for T6 or T3?
LC
SGP Wed 11/09/2005

RER
Where to catch the RER at CDG? My first time in Paris and leave in a week. Want to make sure I don't get lost. Is it within CDG or outside? Please help and thanks.
CA USA Wed 11/09/2005

Como
My husband and I went to Lake Como in mid-May of this year. It was beautiful but a bit rainy while we were there. We stayed at Albergo Vapori in Mennaggio, which is one of the small towns across the lake from Varenna. It was cheap (50 or 60 Euros per night), simple, no frills, but perfect for us budget travelers. We bought a ferry pass so that we could tour some of the towns. Highlights: Bellagio and Villa Carlotta. Villa Carlotta has a museum and expansive gardens where you can spend much time walking through and relaxing. Lake Como and the mountains in the background make this a magestic experience.
Holly
Chicago, USA Wed 11/09/2005

Como--my 2 cents
I stayed around Lake Como for 3 days this summer. First stop was Cernobbio. I thought that was kind of boring, but it was my dad's favorite place. Cernobbio is almost a suburb of Como. Looking out on the lake, you see lots of towns & cities. Next stop was Varenna which we all liked. We stayed and ate at the Albergo Olivedo. We had a great experience and great food, but it's not the place to go if you like to be assertive with your innkeeper...Laura is in charge. Varenna is across from Bellagio and it's just beautiful. For my taste, a week would be a little long--there's not all that much to do. You could take a day trip to Milan.
Karen <email>
MN USA Wed 11/09/2005

Como
We stayed on Como in 2004. The city of Como is big and unimpressive. Varenna, where we stayed , was fantastic. We had an apt overlooking the Lake which we got thru Hotel Montecodeno. The ferry that plies the Lake is great. You can visit so many small towns and see so much beautiful scenery. Trains take you everywhere along Lake, including into Switz
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport , MA USA Tue 11/08/2005

Phuket
Any recommendations for resorts in phuket with great kids club. Cheers Lea
Lea Browning <email>
Newcastle, NSW Australia Tue 11/08/2005

Lake Como
We would like to stay around Lake Como for 7 days in May. Would appreciate any accommodation advise and ideas on day trips, maybe into Switzerland. Thanks Heaps. MarK & Kathy Newcastle Australia
Kathy Crosbie <email>
Newcastle, NSW Australia Tue 11/08/2005

STOCKHOLM
Emily: when we were in Stockholm we ate one meal every day at the Stockmans Dept Store Restaurant on the top floor.

The food was great AND the the prices very reasonable. It is two blocks from the RR station in downtown.

Go to the Tourist Information Office and get a map of the important sights.

You can walk to nearly all of them.
A. A. M.
ND USA Tue 11/08/2005

Stockholm hotel
I really liked the Hotel Gustav Vasa. Rick recommended it at one point. Don't have any must see sights because I spend time with relatives.
Karen <email>
MN USA Tue 11/08/2005

cheap and still dressy!
Dear "Cheap"- it depends what you mean by jeans and t-shirts. If I were you, I would get one new pair of very dark (almost black)-wash jeans- check Goodwills, etc. Those will look dressy enough for the Parisians! Add a scarf to be tres chic. I don't know how old you are, but I've seen jersey material gauchos that would pack small and light on sale for about $10.00 and you could wear those everywhere.
USA Tue 11/08/2005

Length of Stay
We agree that how long you stay is an important consideration. We just returned in Sept from a trip thru Spain,Portugal, France and UK that lasted 4 months. It cost us about $4k/month and it was a LONG time but we have the time, enuf $$$ and we LOVED every minute.Some couldnt go for that long bcuz they wouldnt be comfortable even if they had the resources to do it. We couldnt go for a weekend but that's paradise for some. The length of stay is another thing, like packing light vs heavy, that depends on many factors-- not the least of which is why you are traveling and how you do so.
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport , MA USA Tue 11/08/2005

Stockholm
I am going to be spending 6 days in Stockholm in January.

Any hotel recommendations and must see sights?

Thanks.
Emily Green <email>
Houston, TX USA Tue 11/08/2005

Drew--2 weeks is plenty
Thought I'd post a contrarian few about long trips. It's a personal choice. (My son doesn't understand why we would go for less than a week....he takes extended trips; but he has little money so he can't go to anything that requires an admission fee.) We sometimes do a long weekend in Europe. It provides a break from our routine, and our VISA bill is high enough when we return. For me a 10 day trip is optimal. If you have jobs or family responsibilities, you sometimes just can't be gone that long. 10 days allows you to get adjusted to the time & get to know a small region well--or well enough. Europe is expensive--I often stay in Rick-recommended hotels & it's still expensive! I'd rather go for a shorter amount of time & not have to be so careful about my money.
Karen <email>
MN USA Tue 11/08/2005

Re: Hotel Beaubourg in Paris
I emailed Hotel Beaubourg yesterday inquiring about rooms for my trip during Thanksgiving and was told they were booked for that week.

Just an FYI in case you are looking for rooms for the last week of Nov.
Daniel M. Perez <email>
Miami Beach, FL USA Tue 11/08/2005

Paris
If you subscribe to the NY Times online (free subscription), there is an article titled, "For Tourists, a Calmer Paris". It describes what is going on in the city center. Thus far, no museums or metro services in the center have been closed or disrupted. It does talk about transferring from CDG to center by RER through the area affected, but points out that riots take place at night and most flights from US arrive during the day. I agree with many posters here, keep your wits about you if you are going to Paris. If I were to leave for Paris in a couple of weeks, I wouldn't change my plans.
Sheila
Seattle, WA USA Tue 11/08/2005

hotel in Paris
Has anyone stayed at the Hotel Beaubourg in Paris in the Marais... any comments???
USA Tue 11/08/2005

Paris over Thanksgiving
Four of us are planning on going to Paris (and Germany) over Thanksgiving. I figure the riots will be over by then. And if not, you just gotta use your head (and don't stay out late). I also figure the Government wants us there spending money, so they'll try to make sure we are safe.

What does everyone else think?
Janeece <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 11/08/2005

DREW:Extend your trip!
I agree with Canada - two weeks is not enough time to see all of those places and enjoy them. I just took a two-week trip and only focused on three cities - Prague, Munich, Hallstatt (Austria). It was the perfect amount of time to really get a feel for each city and I never felt rushed. Also, I suggest going in early September - the crowds are not as bad and your lodging will be cheaper as you will be after the music festivals and before Octoberfest.
Wanderer
VA USA Tue 11/08/2005

The Paris Opera: Attire
I am a budget traveler (and I mean budget) and my only clothes being taken this winter to Europe are jeans, sweaters, etc. I am looking into the "cheap seats" at the Paris Opera House but need info on how to dress when all I have are casual clothes. Please help!
<email>
USA Tue 11/08/2005

Winter dress for men
Nikki - my "middle aged" husband (55) brings/wears 1 pr of jeans and 2 pr khakis (or other non-denim pants) to Europe. All shirts have a collar i.e. long sleeve polo shirt not necessarily "dress" shirt. The Docs (assume you mean Doc Martens?) will be fine. The coat thing is the big one - you'll probably feel better style wise in a longer dark colored coat as opposed to a ski-jacket type look. We also use fleeces because they can be layered, are lightweight and come in dark colors and again look nicer than the ski-jacket look.
USA Tue 11/08/2005

EUROPE IN DECEMBER
Nikki: I agree with most comments below on clothes for an older man. I am older than your dad and I wear clothes which I consider comfortable and neat.

That means jeans and sport shirts normally, but for shows I wear a coat, but no tie and dress pants. I consider using good judgement as the best advice anyone can give him.

Don’t wear grubbys and he will be accepted. After all , we don’t go to Europe to impress Europeans! Of course there will always be that small minority who will be critical, but they wont express it.

To meet with his business associates, he will have to make his own judgement on dress.
BOB C.
TEXAS USA Tue 11/08/2005

Theater in London
Nikki~~your dad would be fine wearing Doc's to the theater in London. When we go to the theater in London my husband wears Doc's, but we have seen people wearing from jeans to suites. Have your dad pack jeans, Doc's and polo shirts and he'll be great. Have fun. The musical The Lion King in London is fantastic, have seen it three times.
Ohio USA Tue 11/08/2005

more--clothes for cultural events
I didn't mean to say that dress clothes weren't appropriate--it's just that most travelers don't have room in their luggage for dress clothes....and "business casual" clothes are OK.
Karen
MN USA Tue 11/08/2005

Winter Clothes in Europe
We've traveled to Europe in the winter several times. Northern Europe can be damp. I wished I had my long underwear with (Cuddle Duds are not bulky) because we did a lot of walking outside. We attended cultural events. "Business casual" clothes seemed appropriate...not dress clothes, but not jeans either. If you're going to wear jeans, wear black ones. I would bring comfortable walking shoes that don't look like athletic shoes. An activity we especially enjoyed in England was going to evensongs in churches. They take place around 5 o'clock and they're free (except for what you donate.) We've heard some fantastic choirs.
Karen <email>
MN USA Tue 11/08/2005

london
One day in London wow...do the hop on hop off bus. I agree start early. some top sites, Parliamnet, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St. James Park, Trafalgar Square, St. Pauls is a must, the milenium bridge, the london eye, soho, Covent garden..
USA Tue 11/08/2005

Europe in December
My Dad (age 50) and I (age 20) are going to Brussels, Florence, Rome, and London in from December 10-22. I've been to London and Rome twice before (both times in the summer) but never Brussels or Florence. My dad has never been to Europe and is really looking forward to the trip. I would like any tips about visiting these particular cities in the winter. We have 2 days in Brussels but are there mainly so my dad can visit some business associates and won't have much sight-seeing time. I'm not really sure what to expect for weather this time of year or the best way to pack. What kind of shoes would you recommend? What kind of coat? Is there anything particular to this time of year that we should include in our schedule? Also, my dad is kind of unsure about what kind of clothes to wear. I've been before, but I never really paid attention to what kinds of things middle aged men wore. At home he usually wears jeans, a polo shirt, and Docs to work. We want to see a play in London...what would be acceptable for him to wear? Thanks!
Nikki <email>
Spokane, WA USA Mon 11/07/2005

Winter driving in Germany
I second what USA has to say about winter driving in Bavaria and the Tirol. Last summer I was in Bad Tolz at the foothills of the Alps. The man at the hotel said it was open all year and that winter driving was rarely a problem.

On the other hand, last winter when we were in Berlin we took a train to Goerlitz on the Polish border. I was so glad that we did, because it was snowing. What was beautiful out of a train window would not have been fun driving through!
Karen <email>
MN USA Mon 11/07/2005

Amalif Coast in April
Kate - My daughter and I were on the Amalfi Coast in April 2004. Absolutely recommend you go there. Weather very pleasant, crowds, minimal. A must do, is a day in Ravello.
Judy <email>
Adelaide, SA Aust Mon 11/07/2005

One Day in London
If you only have one day in London, I wouldn't go past grabbing a Hop on Hop off bus as early as possible. This way you will be able to cover as many places of interest in the time available. Wouldn't waste time with Harrods. Worth seeing, but not worth going out of your way, when you are strapped for time. Having said that, shops are the last thing on my itinerary when travelling overseas.
Judy <email>
Adelaide, SA Aust Mon 11/07/2005

Winter driving in Germany
Yes, I have two tips. Contrary to what some people in Texas might believe (my late parents were Californians and had the same misimpression) people in "Winter" climates don't hibernate from November to March. Except for maybe a few inclement days, the people in Bavaria and the Tirol drive wherever, and whenever, they want.

But second, and more important, any place worth seeing in Germany and the Tirol is very well served by public transportation. don't worry about the driving; take the train.
USA Mon 11/07/2005

Situation in Paris with only 2 weeks before departure
My wife and I have spoken about it, and while we are certainly keeping a close eye on the situation, we have decided not to let it ruin our impromptu vacation. I am thinking that the French govt. will get things under control in the next two weeks, but assuming they don't, we will take a bus or taxi from CDG airport to the city (not the train, this has been advised by the US Embassy in Paris, as it goes through affected areas) and remain in the city proper without venturing outside. Absolute worst case scenario in which the riots are IN the city of Paris, we are landing at CDG and hoping on a train to anywhere else in Europe. The way we see it, this is so out of the blue already, it would just be another crazy thing we do.

My suggestion to those in the same boat as we are (and who knew there were so many people taking a spontaneous trip to Paris for Thanksgiving weekend!) is to keep well informed of the situation, but always with a grain of salt. If you have a way to ask people living in Paris for their take on the situation, by all means do so, see what they tell you (for example, I frequent various forums related to my business in which there are members living in Paris, and they have told me the city itself is problem-free at the moment). If you have made hotel reservations, ask about their cancellation policy to know when is the latest you can cancel without a penalty fee, and if by then things in France are not to your liking, just pick another city in Europe and grab a train (Amsterdam, Madrid, London and Munich are all just 3-4 hours away by train!).
Daniel M. Perez <email>
Miami Beach, FL USA Mon 11/07/2005

Kris - Winter in Italy
Socks...go for Smartwool. Great brand, dries pretty fast, very comfortable, don't need to layer. As far as shoes go, you might consider an insulated boot, like Sorrel. Since you will be walking around towns, and sitting in cold ice rinks, insulated boots would be the best for daytime activties. Bring a nicer shoe/boot to wear at night out to eat. Really think about a nice pair of wool pants in place of jeans for daytime and evening activies. Will look nicer and keep you warmer.

Remember the rule when packing, plan to layer..take several lighter items and pile then on, then take them off as needed. A nice down vest or jacket would be ideal, as it compresses to pack and is very warm.

Also, use synthetic only as much as possible. Leave your cotton at home. Remember pure wool holds moisture, if it's mixed with something else, it will be warmer and dry faster. Cotton will just keep you wet -i.e. no t-shirts! Or bring synthetics from Ex-Officio, Travelsmith, Body Armour.

Hope this helps. If you have more questions, I'm leaving my email address for you.
<email>
CO USA Mon 11/07/2005

Paris in the fall of '06
Hi Pat, I chose Paris as the place to celebrated my 50th birthday. It was just the gals, and we had a great time. Our main splurge was lunch at the Jules Verne Restaurant in the Eiffel Tower (which at the rate the dollar is now could be about $100 per person), but hey, I was only 50 once, so why not. Also, for something different and fun, we took a bike tour of the city at night. I noted recently that there are tours on the those Segways[sp?] now too. It's a great city with lots to do.
Devra <email>
Lake Forest, CA USA Mon 11/07/2005

winter driving in Germany
Is it possible to drive in Bavaria/Tirol in late November? We would love to be able to hit some of the towns mentioned in Rick's book that are not really served by public transportation. Any thoughts or tips?
Kellye <email>
Dallas, TX USA Mon 11/07/2005

Germany by Motorhome
My sister-in-law and I are planning to tour Germany and Austria next May by small motorcoach and stay in campgrounds. Arrive Frankfurt, travel the Romantic Road to Fussen. Then to Salzburg and depart from Munich. If anyone has traveled this way, I'd appreciate your comments? Thanks.
Marie <email>
CA USA Mon 11/07/2005

travel between lisbon, madrid and seville?
can anyone advise me on how to travel between seville and lisbon and madrid and lisbon via train or bus in early december? how long, how much etc. is the train from madrid an overnight train and if so where can i go to book it? thanks much!!
beaumont <email>
chicago, IL USA Mon 11/07/2005

Evan--more
Oops--you did say this is your first time..It's great that you're doing this. Lura had a good point about traveling with other students and looking at the deutsche bahn website. Before my semester abroad in the last century, I spent a lot of time studying "Let's Go: Europe." I didn't end up going anywhere I planned to go, but it was fun looking at the book.
Karen <email>
MN USA Mon 11/07/2005

Evan--language study in Munich
Long ago in the last century, I spent a semester abroad in Hamburg, Germany. Some of the best weekends were those exploring Hamburg and not going out of town. In 2000 my son spent a semester in Flensburg, Germany. He met some fun people in his dorm (guys from Lebanon & girls from Portugal) and rarely left the Flensburg area. My advice is to "play it by ear."

You didn't say if you've been to Europe before or if this is the only time & you don't expect to go back soon. If the latter is true, I would spend one weekend in Berlin and one down into Italy--as far down as makes sense time-wise. If you're short on cash, go east! Have fun.
Karen <email>
MN USA Mon 11/07/2005

Torino Olympics Feb 10-24 '06
We 3 are attending Torino Olympics Feb 06. Primary venue @ wms ice hockey in Torino & will visit Oly villages in mtns, travelling in N.Italy by train/bus. Any suggestions on what type boot,and shoe, we should bring along? Yes to H20-proof, yet what type of boot, names of sox for layering purposes, and your suggestions on sole construction. Trying to balance feet warm/dry & not a ton of weight as we're walking everywhere. Does "wash/dry items nightly in room" apply to winter travel & packing lite? Of modest means we're still looking for local pensione or albergo so don't know about abundance of hot water or heat temp's of albego's. How does one pack "light" for winter travel? We already have poly long underwear, do we want to bring < couple sets for our 2+weeks? Add'l clothing or albergo tips welcomed! Thankyou!
Kris Stephens
Shoreline, Wa USA Mon 11/07/2005

Tips for Evan
I would recommend skiing the ALPS. St. Anton is my favorite place not too far from Munich. Weekend trips to Vienna, Salzburg, and possibly parts of Switzerland (Jungfrau region skiing is very picturesque). Prague would be a great long weekend trip. Some areas very close to Munich that are a must is Mad King Ludwig's castle (+ there are some ok ski places near there). Baden Baden is ok if you like casino and the baths there are neat, but black forest overrated. Rhine river and romantic road would make a good stop also, but it seems to me they are better experienced in summer.
Ed
USA Mon 11/07/2005

Paris in the fall of '06
A friend is celebrating her 50th birthday fall of '06 and would like to go to Paris. We are all black females and want to know if other females can give us some input as to where to stay and what to do.
Pat <email>
Glendale, AZ USA Mon 11/07/2005

Trips for Evan
Evan---what a great opportunity. Actually, I did a similar thing in college, only I was there for six months, starting in January. For places to go for the weekend, I would suggest Salzburg (two hours or less by train), Berlin (a night train, but well worth a visit as an amazing place full of history), and, if you want to go to Italy, either Bolzano (4 hours by train, and they speak German there more than Italian), or Florence (by night train). Zurich is nice, but not a high priority as a destination. Of course, all will depend on whether you can find other students to join you on the trips. You can view the train schedules and see how long it takes and the connections, if any, on the Deutschebahn website: www.bahn.de
Lura
Seattle, WA USA Mon 11/07/2005

Weekend trips from Munich?
Hi everyone, I'm a male college student and I'm going to be in Munich for the entire month of Jan. 2006 taking language courses. Will have 3 weekends in January where I'll be free to travel & sightsee. Does anyone have any recommendations of cities/sights that I should try to see while there. I don't know whether I should try to visit other major European cities such as take the train to Zurich one weekend, take the train to Salzburg the next weekend, etc. Or should I try to spend my weekends visiting cities in Germany? I really need some suggestions as this is my first time to Europe. Since it is winter, should I try to make weekend trips to warmer areas, such as Italy or just ignore the weather and make weekend trips wherever. I'm a history major/minor in German and I love music. And of course I'm young and want to hang out with other students. Thanks for any suggestions.
Evan
Dallas, TX USA Mon 11/07/2005

Inexpensive lodging
My husband and I will be traveling to London and Edinburgh in mid-April, 2006 and are looking for inexpensive(no more than 25 pounds pp/pn)accomodations in the city. We are in our early 30's and easy to please, so a bit of a walk and some noise isn't out of the question. Hotel, B&B, and guest house recommendations would be appreciated
Holly <email>
Colorado USA Mon 11/07/2005

Side Trip to Chartres
I am going to Paris in 2 weeks (I made my reservation a day or 2 before the riots started). I had planned on a side trip to Chartres. Does anyone have any information about rioting in that area? I know the whole thing may be blown over somewhat by the time I get there.
Karen Wall <email>
Dallas, TX USA Mon 11/07/2005

Day in London
Regina~~there is so much you could do for a day in London. You could take one of the hop on and off buses to see all the highlights. I would recommend seeing St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace (your granddaughter would love that)to see the Queen's horsed and carriages, walk in St. James Park and if you have time go to Harrods, its a fun place to look around in, especially the food hall.
London
Ohio USA Mon 11/07/2005

HOSTEL RESERVATIONS
I have staayed in hostels many times in the 20 years I have visited Europe. Most times I don’t reserve in advance.

But to be safe you can reserve on the hostel’s web page by email. Why not go ahead and remove the risk and reserve before you go. As early as you know your dates for sure.

You can request confirmation and have it in writing when you arrive.
KERUL C
DALLAS, TX USA Mon 11/07/2005

Tito's Villa
Has anyone been to Montenegro in the last year? I understand that Tito had a villa there which is now for rent. Any help appreciated. Our trip is planned for June 2006.
Judy <email>
Minneapolis, Minnesota USA Mon 11/07/2005

Residenza Giotto
Residenza Giotto has its own website, too: residenzagiotto.it

Have a great trip!
Elizabeth <email>
St. Louis, USA Mon 11/07/2005

Wedding night in Florence
Katy--My husband and I stayed at Residenza Giotto and loved it. It's a bed and breakfast in an old apartment building right off the square around the duomo, so it's right in the center of everything. And since you'll be there in November you shouldn't be bothered by street noise. The rooms are furnished with antiques, and we thought both our room and the building were beautiful. They have a website, but I think sometimes the webmaster deletes them if we post them: florenceby.com/giotto They are also listed in Rick's book, so you can look there, too. The breakfast is very weak--just packaged pastries and a coffee maker in the room--but we ate out on the terrace right next to the baptistry and the food didn't matter to us at all. Have a terrific time! Florence is very romantic!
Elizabeth <email>
St. louis, USA Mon 11/07/2005

Hostel reservations
I am traveling a trip to London, Berlin, Krakow, Prague, Rome, Barcelona, and Paris in March. Would I need a hostel reservation for any of these cities? And if so, how much notice? Thanks.
Sandra <email>
Puyallup, WA USA Mon 11/07/2005

Re: Thanksgiving in Paris
Barbara, I understand the uneasiness and it is well deserved. The rioting seems to be peaking so in effect, it may have settled down by Thanksgiving. If you decide to go, stay in Paris. Stay in the "toursist" areas (I hate saying that word but in this case...) and don't stay out late. Get up a little earlier to have more time. Sleep is a better sacrifice than injury. The important thing to remember is that Paris has not suddenly turned into the middle East. Don't let it ruin your holiday. And remember, the news always make things worse than they really are. It's all about ratings.
<email>
USA Mon 11/07/2005

Wedding night in Florence
Hi, I am going to be getting married in Florence late this month, and I am looking for a nice, but reasonably-priced place to stay for the night. Any ideas? We are looking for something under 150 euros or so, if possible, but it is a special evening, so we might be open to speding a bit more. thanks!
Katy
USA Mon 11/07/2005

DREW: Travel recommendations
Because of the heat and the tourist hordes (we experinced both once and have never repeated it) I would recommend going on your trip as late as possible. While there are always tourists in the cities/areas you plan to visit, the later in the year the better and less crowded - and the better the prices and availability of places to stay.

If you can drive a stick-shift, rent a car - away from an airport, as a previous poster suggested - and take advantage of the mobility. The roads tend to be better in a lot of Western Europe than here in the south and the cars are so much more fuel-efficient. Trains can be fun and a way to save hassles in traffic - and yes, Germany has some major blockages on their roads.

If you can take 3 weeks, do it. And don't miss seeing some of the smaller towns and villages along the way!
Phoebe
Tallahassee, FL USA Mon 11/07/2005

DREW
Please, no matter what you do, stretch this planned trip out to at least 3 weeks. In my early twenties I went for about 8 weeks, and boy, I wish I had stayed longer. There is so much to see in Europe, and we met many others who only allowed themsleves two weeks and regretted it immensely. Think about the airfare costs, and remember, you may not make it back there for a few years, and you will see the sence of making more time for it. You are young now, it really is the best time for an extended trip, you will not regret going for too long, but you may regret going for too short a time.

There are so great rail passes available now, I recommend getting one of the " flexi" types, so many days, non consecutive. Gas is really exspensive , and driving and parking in large cities is a pain.

If you really can't go for more then two weeks, narrow you trip down to only two or three places max. you don't want to spend too much time travelling and not enough just enjoying yourself.
Canada Sun 11/06/2005

Paris in Feb.
I'll be in Paris in March! Can't wait!

I've never stayed in the Rue Cler area, but I'm sure it's fabulous. We stay in the Republique area.

I'm sure you know all about getting a museum pass and all that jazz...a museum pass at Versailles is a godsend.

As for London, I've never been there personally. But you can do one of two things. You can go to London with one of the tour companies, Paris Vision or Cityrama. Or you can buy your ticket and ride through the Chunnel on your own and spend however long you want exploring London. You can get a ticket for one of the hop-on hop-off buses there and just ride around, stop and take a few pictures and hop on another bus when you're ready. I can't remember the name of the bus...one of my friends went last year and was telling me all about it. I hear the shopping is great!

Have fun!
Brandie <email>
USA Sun 11/06/2005

Paris in February
I am going to Paris for a week in Feb 2006 with daughter and granddaughter. We have not bought our air tickets yet, will wait until after Thanksgiving to do so. Hopefully by then the unrest will have passed. Any suggestions are welcome. We want to stay in the Rue Clair area, and are definently on a budget. We hope to get a triple room for 100 E or less. My daughter also insists on going to London for a day, any ideas there, and what to see in a day. Thanks
regina White <email>
tampa, fl USA Sun 11/06/2005

Route des Grandes Alpes
We will be visiting Southern Europe in May and early June. We want to drive this great drive from Nice to Geneva (we have read) but are not sure the exact routing or the cautions we should consider. We expect that in late May the roads should be open. We are also interested in any recommendations as to places to overnight on this 450+ mile trip.
Jerry Farrell <email>
Sacramento, CA USA Sun 11/06/2005

Marmaduke's in York
Anyone know anything about Marmaduke's in York, other than it opened in June 2005?
DonnaC
Arvada, CO USA Sun 11/06/2005

Harrods~~my two cents
Harrods~~I agree with Karen, Harrods is a fun place to look around in. She is also correct that you would need to be weathy to shop for a wardrobe in Harrods. Personally, I don't go to the UK or any where in Europe to shop. I go to enjoy the beauty of the country.
USA Sun 11/06/2005

Train vs. Car
I wouldn't go so far as to say that driving in Europe is easy. I just settled an insurance claim, and the incident was directly related to the differences between our roads and cars. (I'm not a terrible driver, I've never had a non-ice related accident.) With regards to the insurance claim, I'm still waiting to see if I'm going to be stuck for 500 E for "lessening the car's value." Then, Germany has lots of "staus" or traffic jams...out in the middle of nowhere.

That being said, I would suggest renting a car for several days here and there to see sights that you couldn't see by train.
Karen <email>
MN USA Sun 11/06/2005

Harrods--my 2 cents
I wouldn't call myself a shopper, but I think that Harrods is really fun. When we were there, there were some bagpipers going through. It's within walking distance of many must see sights. The only thing we bought was a sandwich. Unless you're really wealthy, Europe is not a good place to shop for your wardrobe anyway. But don't skip Harrods---just look around on the first floor if nothing else.
Karen <email>
MN USA Sun 11/06/2005

tacky
I agree Harrods is pretty tacky. Ya it is cool to see it because it is "harrods", and it is differeent but I agree there are much better places to shop.
USA Sun 11/06/2005

Travel Recommendations/Drew
Your trip sounds great, but be aware that lots of sights are not readily accessible from the train stations. You could easily do Amsterdam without a car, train to the next leg of your trip but for the Rhine (don't forget the Mosel) you really need a car. Many of the sights are far from rail stations and you can easily be a captive of the rail schedule. Sometimes you have to wait hours for a particular train when if in a car, you can head off to your next destination and enjoy the scenery and sights along the way. Driving in Europe is easy. A car booked in advance works well and saves $$$. We found that Eurail passes were as expensive as a car rental and did't seem right for us. Eastern France is accessible by train from Paris to perhaps Strasbourg, rent a car, drive to Colmar, head to Germany via Trier, pick up the Mosel river east to Koblens(don't miss berg Eltz) then turn to the Rhile Great small towns, wonderful wine villages. I think you'd be in that region in time for the wine festivals. Car rental is less expensive in Germany, Holland and Belgium than in France. Best pick up and leave any rental at a site away from major airports(cheaper). There are always local trains from towns to the major airports for your trip back. PS, Belgium is a treat!
Pat <email>
MA USA Sun 11/06/2005

Harrods
There is no way that Harrods is tacky. The memorial to Princess Diana maybe tacky, but the store it self is NOT. It is a fun store to visit.
USA Sun 11/06/2005

Harrods/London Eye
Lucky Girl~~riding the London Eye and going to Harrods is very doable. For Harrods you would want to take the Piccadilly tube line and get off at Knightsbridge. For the London Eye you would get off at the Westminster stop. If you would leave from Harrods to go to the London Eye you would go to Knightsbridge tube station, you would want to take the Piccadilly line to Green Park get on the Jubille line to Westminster. The tube is so easy I'm sure you could find your way. The London Eye will close January 6th to Feb. 9, 2006 for annual maintenance. I saw where one poster say that you should not waste your time going to Harrods, Harrods is very interesting to see, also you could get a good tea and scone there in one the the restaurants. I would not skip Harrods, and maybe once you see it you won't want to go back, but you should go now. I know some people that go to Harrods every trip to London.
London
Oh USA Sun 11/06/2005

WInter trip to Scandinavia
Try Copenhagen, Denmark! Like Oslo it has lots of museums and other attractions that are open year-round, as well as wonderful shopping. Its temperatures are milder than Oslo, too.

We have traveled on IcelandAir, spent one night in Iceland (Keflavik) and then continued to Copenhagen. It's an easy trip. Transportation is great all over Denmark. If you go, do get the Copenhagen Card, which gives you unlimited entrance into museams, attractions and discounts on various services, as well as on all transportation in the city and a lot of Zeeland (the region in which Copenhagen is situated). You should get the 72-hour card that begins when you choose to activate it, then runs for a full 72 hours from that time.

If you go to Olso, get the Oslo Card.
Tallahassee, FL USA Sun 11/06/2005

riot updates
I just read on a few websites that the riots reached paris last night. I don't know in what area but with so many riots across France it was probably just a matter of time.

I have no idea what the answer is to solve what they are going through. I fell in love with france while I was there so I am watchign this story closely.
USA Sun 11/06/2005

There are benefits to car travel and Train travel. One thing is that train travel does take a certain amount of stress out of the trip. You don't have to worry about getting lost, speeding tickets, ect. If you do rent a car I do suggest renting a gps as well. It does help alot
USA Sun 11/06/2005

Travel recommendations
Drew, Going in September would cut your airfare to Europe almost in half. There sre still lots of crowds in Europe during September; just not as many Americans. Based on your intinerary I don't think renting a car is necessary. The locations you listed are well served by trains. If your going to spending a lot of time in Switzerland, you might consider getting the Swiss Pass in addition to your Eurail Pass. The swiss pass includeds all inter-city trains and buses, big discounts on scenic trains, and free travel on the municipal transit networks.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 11/06/2005

Paris on a whim for Thanksgiving (Will the riots be a problem?)
My wife and I are doing something out of fiction: we felt a desire to travel and decided to go to Paris, literally, on a whim. We leave 11/23 for a week in the City of Lights. I was not very concerned about the civil unrest, except I read the news today (11/6) and it seems the problems are moving closer to Paris proper. While I still feel that it probably won't have an effect on my impromptu vacation, I would love to hear from people who have just come back, or from someone with a clearer picture of how things are going in the city. After all, we all know the news can be a little exagerated at times.
Daniel M. Perez <email>
Miami Beach, FL USA Sun 11/06/2005

paris in September
We were in Paris in mid september and it was quiet! I was expecting huge crowds as I was told by so many people but it was very quiet. We are planning on going to Paris and Spain in June and I bet we will have larger crowds then.
bluedenim
Sat 11/05/2005

re: One Day in London
Lucky Girl! If you're going to ride the Eye, you could stroll from there along the south bank -- the jubilee walking path is new since you've been there. On your way past the Globe and the Tate Modern, there are some fun little shopping areas. Then you could walk across the modern pedestrian bridge to St.Paul's and head for another neighborhood... I also like Kensington High Street for shopping -- very cool stores!
Kristin
Bellevue, WA USA Sat 11/05/2005

Paris in September
Drew, Paris does get busy with conventions in mid to late September. However, we went in early September and found almost no crowds. People with kids in school, college students and teachers had ended their summer vacations and the conventions crowds hadn't yet arrived. (We found the same thing this summer traveling in Spain at the very end of August.) I think the first two weeks of September are the most perfect times to travel due to great weather and low crowds. Have a great time!!!!
TM
Bend, OR USA Sat 11/05/2005

One day in London
Starting in January, the Eye usually closes for about a month for maintenance. Keep an eye (no pun intended) on their web site for dates and times.
Sarah
PA USA Sat 11/05/2005

Travel recommendations
I am loosely planning a two week (or so) trip next summer to Amsterdam/Rhineland/Munich/Swiss Alps/France. Two questions: 1) What does everyone recommend as far as a car vs. eurail and why? After reading Rick's take, I can see major benefits to both. I am in my mid-20s and will be travelling with my girlfriend, same age 2) We have a large window to travel in - July-September, essentially. Given the general itinerary listed above, would we be okay to go in July or August, since we would be avoiding Italy and the French beaches? Or should we wait until September, when I understand that Paris is quite busy? I appreciate any suggestions.
Drew
Sacramento, CA USA Sat 11/05/2005

no to Harrods
London Eye is great. But to get from there to Knightsbridge you will definatly have to change tube lines. I would not walk it.

If you are going for Harrods...I suggest you also go to Harvey Nicols...much better in my view. Harrods if fun to see I guess because it is Harrods but in all honesty I thought it was tacky.

If you want to shop I suggest Oxford Street instead. Selfridges is great and it is easier to get to from the London Eye. Carnaby St (I think is the name) is another place I highly suggest to check out for shopping and it is not far off of Oxford St. In fact I would also suggest you take in Soho.

But Harrods is a let down....only do it if there is something else you want to do in the area.

There is so much you could do and see in London.
bluedenim
Sat 11/05/2005

Traveling to Paris
Just heard on the news that the US government is warning citizens about travel to Paris at this time. They suggest not going until the riots have passed. Thought I'd pass that on...seems to be some converstations about travel now....
USA Sat 11/05/2005

One Day in London
I have the opportunity to spend one day in London before the start of a sales meeting. Been there once, 29 years ago. Don't need to see the changing of the guard or the Tower of London.

Thinking I'd like to ride the Eye, and browse in Harrads.

Can anyone suggest a better idea of what to do in one day. Not too interested in museums, but love history and shopping (not that I can afford anything with the British Pound!)

I will be there January 5, so I anticipate some COLD temps for walking (?)

I'll be totally by myself. Guessing the Tube would be the best way to get around.

Are the 2 sites I want to see really far apart? Or walking distance? 1-2 miles?

Thanks for any suggestions! I'll mostly likely be jetlagged too, but getting out should help to clear the cobwebs!
Lucky Girl <email>
USA Sat 11/05/2005

WInter trip to Scandinavia
The part of the trip to Iceland is the business part, so I have no choice about that.

The ticket on Icelandair is quite reasonable to go to Iceland and then continue on to one city in Europe for the rest of our time.

I thought Oslo would be a good choice since it is the closest to Iceland.

Thanks.
Hope Stein <email>
Houston, TX USA Sat 11/05/2005

Winter trip to Scandinavia
A trip to Iceland in January would be a waste of your time. Iceland's biggest attracation is its natural beauty, in January it will be dark most of the day, and the extreme winter will make some of the roads impassable. Oslo on the other hand has lots of museum and other attractions that are open year round; as long as you don't mind the cold :) Also, rick states in his book that some think the Norway in a Nutshell tour is most scenic in the winter.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sat 11/05/2005

Turmoil in Paris
Does anyone have any concerns about traveling to Paris this month? I have a trip planned for Thanksgiving week but now I am apprehensive.
Barbara
Dallas, TEXAS USA Sat 11/05/2005

Winter trip to Scandinavia
I am planning a trip to Iceland and Oslo in January.. (timing is determined by business trip).

I was disappointed to read in Rick's Scandinavia that he basically does not recommend winter trips to Norway.

Am I going to regret this idea?

Hope
Hope Stein <email>
Houston, TX USA Sat 11/05/2005

Book online using Trenitalia.com
The most common reason to get the NO is that you did not select the International tab and you are trying to buy an international ticket using the National query page. You will also get the NO for a connection that has a leg entirely outside of Italy (eg, Lusanne to Paris). Lastly, you will normally get the NO if you try to book too far (2 months) in advance, but in this case, since they are changing the schedule on Dec 10, you can't query beyond that date.
USA Sat 11/05/2005

Venice to Paris Train Tickets
Since your trip ends in Paris, you can book your Venice-Paris ticket on the SNCF site, www.sncf.com. However, tickets cannot be booked more than 60 days in advance of your travel date. You may be able to get a PREM (discount) ticket for as little as E50 (2nd class) or E70 (1st class). In 2nd class you'll be in a six-bunk couchette and in 1st class you'll be in a four-bunk couchette. Choose Italy as the country in which you'll pick up your ticket, but just go ahead and print it yourself when you give your credit card information and place your order.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 11/05/2005

Great Britain trip help
Just returned from 15 days in Great Britain and would be happy to share trip itinerary or suggestions with anyone planning a trip. I'm certainly no expert on the area but I know I really appreciated the help I found using these boards. Feel free to email me.
Stacy Quisenberry <email>
Lubbock, TX USA Sat 11/05/2005

Book online using Trenitalia.com
Yes, I'm still going to France. However, I'm not able to book online the night train ticket from Venice to Paris using Trenitalia.com website. The buy icon is just a BIG NO. Any tips on which website i can buy online?
LC
SGP Sat 11/05/2005

Wouldn't ya think Air France would be just about giving away tickets to CDG?

If this keeps up long enough for our own pitiful network news programs to cover it, there might be some red hot last minute air fare deals made available, but not yet. At least I haven't found any.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Sat 11/05/2005

Bus to CDG
Read this morning that the French government is warning people about taking the train from Paris to CDG. Check out article on MSN home page regarding this titled "geurrilla situation in France. I think things have changed in the past 24 hours. I'd take the bus or a cab.
Pat
MA USA Sat 11/05/2005

Paris Riots
Harvey--With all due respect, the rioting is not happening anywhere near where most tourists go while visiting Paris.
Stan
NYC, NY USA Fri 11/04/2005

Re: Backpack Travel
My three children, ages 11-19, and I used only backpacks on our recent trip to Europe. We didn't use the RS backpack because we were flying British Airways and their carryon limit is more restricted. Our backpacks were good quality larger school type backpacks. We used the packing cubes. We did the "wear one, bring three" philosophy. It was great! My only regret is that I wish I had packed things that would dry quicker. I definately will travel that way again.
USA Fri 11/04/2005

Train tickets for Spain
Correction: that website is www.renfe.es. Get the "l" out of there.
USA Fri 11/04/2005

Train tickets for Spain
Bennie: First, consider the Spanish rail pass instead of the Eurail pass. For 5 days in 1st class it's cheaper, and you can get only 3 days if that is all you need, and you can get 2nd class and save more money. Look in the rail pass section on this site.

Of the sites mentioned, one gives ballpark prices for comparison, and they appear unrealistically low; they probably haven't updated it for years. Another links you to Rail Europe. The prices shown on Rail Europe's site are not too far off, but they are a little high. Also, there may be less expensive trains available, but Rail Europe doesn't tend to show them.

Instead, for point to point prices, go to the source. Go to wwwl.renfe.es and click on the British flag. Remember two things. First, if you pay for the tickets over there with a credit card you will probably be charged up to 3% for currency conversion. If you use cash from an ATM card you will still pay 1 -to 1-1/2% over the exchange rate (today, $1.18/EUR). Take that into account. Second, some trains may charge a premium if you use a rail pass. It is probably included in the Renfe price, but you have to add it to the cost of the rail pass.
<email>
USA Fri 11/04/2005

re: Turkey Travels
More info. We will be arriving in Istanbul @ 11pm on a Thurday night and want to leave for Ankara on Friday night. So my concern is all trains will be booked.
Joell N <email>
Auburn, Wa USA Fri 11/04/2005

re: Turkey Travels
Thanks, Jer. Do you know the best way to make train (sleeper) reservations? I know you can't get them more than 30 days in advance. Also, is the price of the ticket included in the 'sleeper charge'?
Joell N <email>
Auburn, Wa USA Fri 11/04/2005

Paris/rioters
The poster who seems to have a devil may care viewpoint regarding the riots in Paris misleads us. Don't cancel your French vacation, but be aware that all is not happening an hour's drive from Paris in the distant suburbs (banlieue not bain-lieu) Just a few weeks ago, housing occupied largely by Africian immigrants was twice struck by arsonists--in the 13eme--not far from the L'Oreal plant. There have been others incidents for months on lesser scales St. Denis, with riots this week, borders the highway that circles Paris. It is literally at the city limits. The causes seem to be the very high unemployment among the immigrants, mostly from Muslim nations, and a great resentment by ethnic French who are overwhelming Roman Catholic. They also are victims of about 10 per cent unemployment and frustrated by it. Don't assume that these incidents are isolated in place or time. Just go back to 1961 in French history to see how similar conditions blew up. The French will control the violence. The military and civil police forces are excellent. In the meantime, take your vacation, but be aware that the violence is not all happening someplace far removed.
Harvey
ILL USA Fri 11/04/2005

Paris riots
This is happening in the "bain-lieu"---the suburbs. About an hour's drive north of central Paris.

I've been in Paris during riots and had no idea they were happening until I picked up a local newspaper.

This is typical of TV news coverage. You'd think that the whole city was aflame. But these riots are mainly confined to the bleak housing projects way out of town.

Your greatest personal danger is being hit by a car when you cross the street. Go, Have fun. Enjoy the City of Lights.
Michael <email>
Edmonton, Canada Fri 11/04/2005

Riots outside Paris
Re: Paris Riots From today's paper, sounds like riots are in small towns, north of Paris. If I were going this week, I would take the Air France bus to get into Paris from CDG, or arrange with one of the shuttles (I think we used Blue Van). Looked like the rioters attacked an RER train driver...better safe than sorry is my motto.
B. Jones
wa USA Fri 11/04/2005

Moroccan weather
Weather in Morocco....How cold will it be in December? Thinking about 3 days in Atlas mountains, a few in Marrakesh. Any advice for heat at that time of year?
Sylvia Smith <email>
London, uk Fri 11/04/2005

Advise re: riots in Paris
My friend and I are leaving for Paris in a couple of weeks. Should we be concerned going with all the rioting that is happening there? We are both women and staying in Latin Quarter. Thanks.
San Francisco, California USA Fri 11/04/2005

Amalfi Coast/Rome OR Tuscany/Florence?
to Kate: have you looked into The Wayfarers yet? www.thewayfarers.com They have several walks in Italy, as well as other European countries, New Zealand and the US. I've taken 5 walks with them and love how they take care of you. The walks are well planned with knowledgable leaders. Food, hotel, luggage transport, etc. all done for you. I travel alone as well, but meet some wonderful people on these walks sharing travel stories and information, then I'm off on my own after the walk of over.
Isadore204
NYC, USA Fri 11/04/2005

Re Turkey travel
You don't need to reserve trains or buses in advance in Turkey except for the overnight sleeper train between Istanbul and Ankara--that you should probably reserve a few days in advance. Keep in mind that there are competing bus companies at the otogars--get more than one quote before you buy your ticket.
JER
USA Fri 11/04/2005

TRAIN TICKETS FOR SPAIN
Bennie: You should determine whether the pass is cheaper than point-to-point tickets.

Go to railpass.com/tickets, railtrains.com, or raileurope.com and click on fares and schedules in upper left of page.

Once you determine the total cost of tickets between all cities, compare it with the cost of the rail passes you will need to buy to cover the same routes.

That is the only way you can be sure of the cheapest way to travel by train. It is not complicated.
dallas, tx USA Fri 11/04/2005

cell phones
Thanks to all who mentioned mobal.com and their $49.99 phone. I had seen this in a magazine ad, and of course couldn't find it again. I KNEW someone on this site would know!
Patricia
Media, PA USA Fri 11/04/2005

Visit the Dordogne & Languedoc
Jean-we had a wonderful driving trip to the Dordogne & Languedoc regions of France. I don't think it is quite as touristy as Provence, though we have not been there. The Dordogne region is quite popular with Dutch & German tourists, but not Americans. We stayed in a self-catering in Belves, a small but very charming town that seemed central to the area. There are wonderful castles and even more wonderful food, as well as market towns like Sarlat. There are also spots to visit with cave drawings, though when we were there they were talking about shutting down the one at Peche Merle like they have done with Lascaux. The Languedoc is even more remote and has the wonderful Cathar castles to visit as well as the incredible cathedral in Albi. As an added plus, we were able to fly into Paris, do our road trip and then fly out of Barcelona. We joke that our favorite part of our France trip was seeing Barcelona - a really great city.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Fri 11/04/2005

Jean - Travel plan for France
Oops!! I'm sorry - it should be northEAST into Alsace, etc.
George
Philadelphia, USA Fri 11/04/2005

To Jean - travel plan for France
One more vote for Burgundy. It really does have much to offer the traveler. And, if time permits, you can continue traveling northwest into Alsace, visiting Strasbourg, Colmar, and even further into Switzerland. You will not be disappointed. May is an especially nice time to be in this area.
George
Philadelphia, USA Fri 11/04/2005

Amalfi Coast/Rome OR Tuscany/Florence?
taking my first trip to italy in april. i have 1-2 weeks to spend there, then the rest of the month in france. i'll be traveling solo and have decided to start with a walking tour (like for 7-10 days, not one of those 3-hour tours). that will make for a soft landing in italy before heading off to paris (where i've been before) on my own. the choice of locations for walking tours seems to be amalfi coast or tuscany, then i could see either rome or florence on my own afterwards (with the help of a couple of the 3-hour variety city walk tours). got any suggestions or comments on this plan, and what are your recommendations about which of those areas to visit in april? (keep in mind i'm 50 - i can walk but i'm not in great shape.) would also appreciate recommendations for walking vacation tour companies - Exodus is the most economical i've found. and how about city tour companies or private guides in rome or florence?
kate
WA USA Fri 11/04/2005

Paris disturbances - travel to/from CDG
Any advice on using RER-B to get into Paris from CDG given reports that "commuter trains" on the Paris-CDG line may have had some trouble on 11/3?
Mark
Cambridge, MA USA Fri 11/04/2005

train tickets for spain
hi everyone, i will be in spain for two weeks, no definite plans, but was wondering if it would be cheaper to buy my train tickets as i go or should i buy a euro rail pass?
bennie <email>
mission viejo, ca USA Thu 11/03/2005

German/Austria Train
There are three ways to get from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Fussen. You can go by bus, by train to Reutte (Austria), then by bus to Fussen, or by train to Reutte and Pfronten, then by bus to Fussen. In the last two cases, the train is part of the Ausserfernbahn and is included with a Bayern Ticket. The bus links are all part of the Upper Bavarian Transit Authority (RVO) and are included in the Bayern Ticket. All these links can be found on the Bahn.de website.

Of course, if this is the only travel you do that day, it is less than the €24 Bayern ticket, and you should just buy point to point tickets.
<email>
USA Thu 11/03/2005

New Year's Eve
If open, the catacombs would be interesting to a wide age and interest group- even if it is during the day.
USA Thu 11/03/2005

Post Script/info re France
There is another monthly free e-zine this one from the publishers of FRANCE TODAY, an usually esoteric subscription magazine. Go to: info@francetoday.com and look for the link to Le Petit Journal. You can have it in French or English. It's real appeal is to those whose body is here but whose heart is in France.
Harvey
ILL USA Thu 11/03/2005

To Jean and others re next trip to France
For people who need information rather than guidance for a first, second, etc trip to France, try FRANCEGUIDE, a good survey publication covering all of France. It is published each year for English speakers by the French Tourism commission. It is free but you pay $2-3 postage. With your order of FRANCEGUIDE, you may order 2 or 3 other free publications that cover specific regions. On the internet, go to www. franceguide.com The Maison de La France, also offers free monthly e-zines. Somewhere near the back of each FRANCEGUIDE is a list of tourism offices for each French region and their sub-regions, or departments. These mail, usually free, publications upon request.
Harvey
ILL USA Thu 11/03/2005

restaurant in Mont St Michel
Di~~~I noticed someone mentioned the omelet place on the Mont. We ate there a couple years ago and were very disappointed. I had the famous omelet and it was mediocre at best. Husband had nondescript fish. We had to almost beg for bread. Staff not friendly. Our bill, with a not too expensive wine, came to about $150. I think this restaurant, Madam Poulard, may have been good years back. The best omelet I had in France ever was Cafe Marche on Rue Cler.I think Rick recommends against M. Poulard for the pricey omelets ($25 or so) and he is right.
Nancy
USA Thu 11/03/2005

Hotel Medicis in Paris?
Has anyone been to Hotel Medicis recently. We stayed there in 2004 and are returning this January and would like to return, but the email address is not working and the fax# I have is incorrect?

Weather ideas for Paris/Milan in January would be great. Do we go with rain gear or snow or both?

Happy Travels
Fawn Marie <email>
St. Louis, MO USA Thu 11/03/2005

Di/Normandy in May
Di, May is a great time to travel to Normandy, we spent 2 weeks last May on a trip very similar to the one you are planning. We did our research and used many helpful hints from posters to this web site, especially Harvey from Illinois. His advice was great! I note you did not mention Rouen. Fantastic city, I would not miss it. We flew Boston to CDG, stayed overnite in Paris, did Giverney next day (bus required from Vernon to Giverney, schedule available at Paris station is wrong, check at station in Giverney) overnite Paris again. Next AM, train to Rouen Fantastic. Stayed at Holel de la cathedrale, clean and neat and central.) From there to Abbey de Jumieges, arriving mid-afternoon in Honfleur. Charming but not more than a day and overnight. Next day, leisuerly back and forth to Caen. The museum is awesome, no other word works. Stayed in B & B in area. Unless its a weekend, I wouldn't worry about rooms. Small places everywhere. Arromanches is a must. The beachheads, the cemetary, all need to be seen. Bayeaux is fantastic, the Tapestry better that I thought it could be. Stayed off island at the Mont St Michel at a rather modern hotel. It was nice, clean and not crowded. The places on the Mt looked a little too ancient for me. Rather "tired". The whole Mt experience is awe-inspiring. How the old timers ever built these places is beyond me.We went to Dinan and got so lost in the construction that I'm told we missed lots of it. Perhaps next time. Lots of stops along the way, including Chartres. The city is torn up in order to put in --underground parking--if you can believe it. It is worth the hastle to see the magnificent cathedral but don't forget to go down behind the church to the old part of the city. Lots of travelers miss the old parts. We drove from there to Versailles(been there before) to leave our rental car and took the train back to Paris from there. We could have left it in Chartres but the drop off was closed at the time we wanted to leave it. Make sure your rental car company has drop offs and hours corresponding to your days requirements. The people were fantastic, no problems. The cost of this trip came as a bit of a suprise to us. We've been to France before and found things much more costly this time but its your vacation so there is no point is worrying about it. Have a great place to stay near arromanches if you need a recommendation. It comes with a funny story. Let me know.
Pat <email>
Marblehead, MA USA Thu 11/03/2005

New Years in Rome
Our family is traveling to Italy over the holidays. We will be in Rome for New Year's Eve. Does anyone have ideas/suggestions on what to do for New Years? Age range is 13 - 44.
Crista <email>
Mankato, MN USA Thu 11/03/2005

re Suggestions needed for trip planning
Jean - I agree with Corinne on thinking about Burgundy. I was in Burgundy in September 2005. Dijon itself is very interesting with museums, churches, etc. The Burgundy scenery is vineyards so there is wine tasting everywhere. The little villages have these lovely tiny churches with the most incredible, and OLD, artwork in them. Beaune is worth checking out as well. The roads are good and gites can be found in the places like Volnay. And as you know France, the food will be fabulous. Check it out!
Isadore204
NYC, USA Thu 11/03/2005

re Suggestions needed for trip planning
If you like history, you have to go to Burgundy! Churches, abbayes, Dijon ducal Palace, museums...+ gastronomy and good wines. Have a look at www.cotedor-tourisme.com to give you an idea and find accommodations (if you are looking for gites you can also find self catering accommodations, meublés de tourisme in french (2 to 4*) to be right in the center). if you want to know more feel free to email me. have a good trip!
corinne <email>
Dijon, Burgundy France Thu 11/03/2005

Suggestions needed for trip planning
Hi, I need advice to plan my next trip to France. I had a perfect trip last time when I rented a car in Paris and drove to Normandy and Brittany. I have first learned about the these beautiful regions from my study abroad program in Paris. The trip is out of this world made possible by the close proximities of sublime cities (St. Malo, Dinan, Mont St. Michel, etc.)and dramatic coastal towns and landscapes. This allowed us to rent a gite as a home base. What I loved about these regions, beside the things I mentioned above, is the region is steeped in history (D-day Sites, Bayeux Tapestry). This time I'm planning a trip to other regions of France and would like some of experiences and suggestions for areas to explore that has similar qualities as Normandy and Brittany. I had originally planned to visit Provence but after doing a little research I get the impression that this region is overrated and could be a let down. Please let me know how you travellers feel.
jean <email>
ma USA Thu 11/03/2005

Hotel Della Rose
Does anyone have updated web information for the Hotel Della Rose in Paestum? The "corrected" website isn't working. A fax number would be good, too.
Karen <email>
CO USA Thu 11/03/2005

Weather in Spain late November
The best thing to do is check Weather Underground (www.wunderground.com) as well as the 15-day forecasts on Accuweather (www.accuweather.com) for the various cities.

On both you can specify the temperature in Fahrenheit or centigrade, and on Accuweather you get the "real feel" as well, so you know what to expect. Check it just before you leave and pack accordingly. Weather is unpredictable anywhere, so be sure to take a warm rainproof jacket with hood or a rain hat. Of course, you are the best judge of what's "too warm" or "too cold" for you.

Don't leave home without checking the forecasts!
Tallahassee, FL USA Thu 11/03/2005

WEATHER IN SPAIN
Cindy, I am in Portugal right now and the weather is QUITE WARM AND RAINY. Bring Short sleeve shirts and a Rain Coat and maybe a jacket for the cooler evenings. I brought light winter clothes and have not been able to use them at all. I will be in Spain late november around granada.
Claudia <email>
USA Thu 11/03/2005

Di/Boston/Normandy
To answer your questions about Honfleur and Mont St Michel: You mentioned that you are mariners- you will just love Honfleur! It is nautical, with nautical shops around the harbor. We are from the Puget Sound area, and loved the quaint atmosphere. You can email Mme Giaglis about beds- she has a number of rooms located in various buildings, and you will feel as if you have splurged! Highly recommend staying with her. As for Mont St Michel and reservations, can we ever make a reservation too early?? Just a suggestion, but it is here that I would splurge a bit- the hotels on the island are very old- we stayed in a two star, called Le Mouton Blanc, and ate our dinner there in the hotel restaurant...wouldn't necessarily recommend it! But Rick has several other hotels he suggests- I think there are only about four or five, so start the reservation process soon! I only have France 2002, but check Rick's more recent guides. You are asking really valid questions for which you will be rewarded!
B. Jones
tacoma, wa USA Wed 11/02/2005

Di/Boston Re German cemetary
Perhaps the one near LMSM you had in mind is a relatively small 10 or 12 thousand grave cemetary at Huisnes-sur-Mer located just about 5km from the Abbey
Harvey
ILL USA Wed 11/02/2005

Di/Boston re Normandy
I'm sorry, I'm not up on places to eat around Le Mont Saint Michel. I haven't been since @ 1999 or 2000. We stayed in Dinan and followed Rick's recommendations, but there is a place at the Abbey, just after you enter the outer walls, that serves egg dishes reputed to be outstanding. You can tell you are there by the rhythmic, constant cadence of whisk against copper bowl. I know the place only by reputation; the waiting list can be long. The tides about the Mont are special and especially so in May. Now that the old causeway is altered (or removed?) the incoming tide is said to be particularly spellbinding for a day or two in May about the second or third week. If you can find out the exact dates, it is worth timing your trip.~~~~Re Bayeux, after the GI's landed in 1944, Ike had his HQ there, near/"at", one historian wagged, the Golden Lion restaurant. Ike appreciated the wine list as did the German officers before him. The place is still there (I think it's the same one) and sets a fine if pricey table.~~~ If you stay in Arromanches, a town right at Gold Beach, you will have a very good hub for all of the debarquement area. You'll also have a charming 8 or 9 room hotel owned by an English speaking wife and her French only chef-husband. The food is "down home" Norman and the bar contains excellent calvados. The place is the Pappagall (Parrot) Hotel, a Logis member, right next to another Logis that is without the personal warmth of the Pappagall owners.
Harvey
USA Wed 11/02/2005

Germany/Austria train
It depends on how much of this you are doing in one day. Most of these trips involve regional trains, or can done on regional trains without significant extra time. DB sells a Bayern Ticket which is good all day long (after 9 weekdays) on any number of regional trains for 2 - 5 people for €24, total. For just one person it costs €15. So, Munich to Salzburg to Munich to Garmisch to Munich over two days would be just €30 for one person.

The ticket is good for regional trains into Salzburg. It is also good for the Ausserfernbahn from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Reutte, but there is a bus from Garmisch to Fussen that takes less time and may be covered by the Bayern Ticket.
<email>
USA Wed 11/02/2005

Germany/Austria Train
How should I go about purchasing train tickets for Munich to Salzburg, Salzburg to Garmisch Partenkirchen then Garmisch back to Munich.I checked each way on bahn.de and it was 70 euro's total. Is there an easiler way then separate tickets each time and should I wait to purchase them? Also, what's the best way to the castle's from Garmisch (car or train)?
Paula <email>
Chicago, USA Wed 11/02/2005

portugal to spain
we are planning a march trip; flying to lisbon, driving to the argarve area. have been told by car rental of huge drop off charge to go into spain and drop off. Has anyone gone from the Faro area to Seville by bus or train? We would then pick up another rental car for Spain.
linda kelleher <email>
surprise, az USA Wed 11/02/2005

Packing for Spain - Late Nov/Early Dec
My daughter and I are traveling in Spain for 2 weeks, late November into early December. I'm trying to figure out which clothing to bring. What can we expect for weather/temperatures in places such as Madrid, Granada, Cordoba, Salamanca, and Caceres (Extremadura)? Also, if anyone has traveled to the Andalusian hilltowns and/or Extremadura using public transportation, I'd be interested in hearing about it. Thanks!
Cindy <email>
Westbrook, ME USA Wed 11/02/2005

German Cemetary in Normandy
The German Cemetary that we visited is the one in La Cambe, Normandy. It is the largest German military cemetary in Normandy with over 21,000 buried. This was part of our D-Day sites tour and I thought it was mentioned in Rick's book. Unlike the American Cemetary which was quite full, there was only us and one other (German speaking) family. The crosses are black and set in groups - a very different feel from the white crosses in the American cemetary. We found it to be very moving.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 11/02/2005

Di.....Bayeux
Di--We have stayed in Bayeux twice, and loved it there. We stayed at the most wonderful hotel in Bayeux (both times), Hotel D'Argouges, a RS recommendation. The owner, Mme Ropartz, and her staff are extremely nice, helpful, friendly, warm, kind, professional...just absolutely the best. The hotel is beautiful and has a wonderful garden. It's listed in RS guidebook for France, and their e-mail address is: dargouges@aol.com. Another town to see, if you have time, is "St Mere Eglise" which is where many of the paratroopers landed, one of whom hung from the church steeple for hours. It is a lovely town with a wonderful museum, and the story is fascinating. Bon Voyage!
Susan
Sausalito, Ca USA Wed 11/02/2005

Followup Questions Normandy MidMay
Thanks for the helpful suggestions and tips. I have some questions.

Harvey, I typed your 'Vergoncey' notes down, much appreciated. Recently bought a Green Michelin & have started to read. It's further away than we want to be for the military side trips.

Can you recommend any restaurants in the area in/ around 'MSM' or in 'La Suisse Normandie' area? Was thinking after we left the MSM, a picnic at the Roche or Gorge would be a good change of pace. If the weather is very bad I like to have some suggestions.

USA, I read that there is a German cemetery just outside 'MSM', about 3 miles, is this the one you mean? I've read that there is one just outside of Caen. There is likely to be several cemeteries for the German losses, just as there are for the other countries.

We want to make a base in the town of Bayeaux. It seems to have everything a traveler could need & gives us the time to see it.

On D6 we want to end our 1/2 day tour after doing Arromanches. Read there are awesome places for seafood especially in Port en Bressins. Did you find any good places to eat there?

B.Jones, We do want to stay ON at MSM so I noted to mak a rez', how far out did you make yours?

Where did you have dinner?

In Honfleur, at BB Giaglis do you recall the bed size? We need either a Queen or (2) twins together.

Honfleur was going to be our splurge base for 2N. I was going to check out 'Hotel le Cheval Blanc' (they have Q beds) and 'Le Manoir de Butin'.

D3 we hope to enjoy a boat excursion or tour(we're mariners), visit some of the museums, enjoy the seaport and have a nice lunch or dinner.

We're undecided about a hotel or apartment for Paris. Plan is to have 6-7 nights, depends on Normandy. There's (2), my husband & I.

I added the frenchconnections and paris rental sites to my folder. Thanks

Keep it coming, this is so helpful. Regards, Di
Di
Boston, USA Wed 11/02/2005

Turkey Travels
Our family is traveling to Turkey for 2 weeks in April '06. Does anyone have any recommendation for obtaining bus tickets and train tickets. Do you need to make reservations or can you buy tickets as you go?
Joell N <email>
Auburn, Wa USA Wed 11/02/2005

Re: Train Reservations
Not sure whether it is clear...but not all trains require reservations, and on many they are optional. Many of the regional and even intercity trains you are free to find a seat, just depends on the line, there is a possibility that without a reservation, on a busy line, you may have to sit in a passageway.. If you are looking on a commercial site that sells tickets in the US, be warned that they only show routes that they handle and get a premium or commision on...usually those that require reservations. For sake of comparision, go to the site of the rail line (Bahn, Trenitalia, SCNF, etc.) and look at schedules.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 11/02/2005

Poppies in Tuscany and Tobacco in Umbria
We have seen large fields of poppies blooming in mid-May. We have been in late April-early May when there were very few blooming. One advantage to going in April though, is if you go through Amsterdam you see stripes of color on the ground, I guess it is fields of tulips, as you land.

In September we were surprised to see tobacco growing all over Tuscany. We were told that it is Kentucky tobacco and not Virginia tobacco, I didn't even know there was a difference, and that it is used to wrap cigars. Apparently Tuscany has a rapidly growing cigar industry.

We were also told that farmers are starting to use herbicides and that it is cutting down on the poppies. I hope that if that is true, that they are not spraying everywhere!
Doberry
MS USA Wed 11/02/2005

Poppies in Tuscany/Umbria
The poppy is almost the "national weed" of Italy. They are everywhere, and very beautiful first time you see a full field of them.

Either month you mention is great...the only time I've not seen a poppy was when we traveled in September...the only thing we saw was tabacco fields in Umbria!
Ellen <email>
Centennial, CO USA Wed 11/02/2005

Poppies in Italy/Tuscany region
Either month is great...they will be in full bloom. Think middle of May for best viewing.
USA Wed 11/02/2005

poppies in tuscany
I would like to see the poppies in bloom in Tuscany or Umbria. We are planning a trip for May or June. When is the best time to see them?
Joan Perry <email>
Jupiter, Florida USA Wed 11/02/2005

Trains trains trains...
Also, if i were to plan trip from Mannheim to northern Schweden for example, the train does not require a reservation until I reach Koebenhavn, and then again at Stockholm. Can these reservations be made at Mannheim? Or is it more complicated? Thanks to all you helpful veterans!
Phil
Germany USA Wed 11/02/2005

Train Reservations
Keep in mind that on each train a limited number of reservations are available for RailPass holders. Certain times of day (early morning, for example) can fill up quickly. Be flexible, be prepared to take a later train, and make the reservations a day or two in advance for important connections.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Wed 11/02/2005

train reservations
A train reservation and a seat reservation are two seperate things. Some trains like Thalys and Eurostar include the seat reservation with the trains reservation, but most IC trains that require reservations don't include a seat assignment unless you pay extra for it; seat reservations are not mandatory. For example, last year I took a direct train from Berlin to Amsterdam, the train required a reservation. I made a reservation of the tuesday morning 9am train, but my ticket had no seat assignment on it, I was free to sit at any open seat that no other traveler reserved by paying the seat reservation charge.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Wed 11/02/2005

Train Reservations
Trains that require reservations "for a specific train at a specific time" are relatively rare. Much more common are trains that require reservations to make sure you have a seat. Most trains will allow you to travel without a reservation but you may have to stand up if the train is full. Since the reserved seats are assigned at the origin point of the train route they have to be made at least some hours in advance.
Jeff
USA Wed 11/02/2005

Di - Honfleur
I enjoyed reading your itinerary since we did most of this is September. One thought - if you are overnighting here, a couple of hours in the morning is plenty of time to see it. That would give you another half day in/around Bayeux. Might take time to see the town of Arromanches where the Allies built a harbor to bring in supplies and most of it is still there. Also small museum to visit. Have fun.
USA Wed 11/02/2005

train reservations
Dont' sweat it. You can make reservations on trains right up until it leaves the station. A train reservation simply means you have a ticket for a specific train at a specific time.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Wed 11/02/2005

Questions About Train Reservations
hi, everybody! I am looking into getting a Eurail pass for the summer, but I have some questions regarding train reservations. How early do you need to reserve seats? I would rather just "wing it", but I don't want to end up without a seat because there is a policy that requires reserving two days in advance, or whatever. Can anybody share their experiences or suggestions? Thanks!
Phil
Germany Wed 11/02/2005

Ronchamp/ post script
The train from Paris to Ronchamp is 5 hours including transfer.
HG
USA Wed 11/02/2005

Ronchamp
To Rach in Melbourne----Ronchamp is a small place of about 12000 persons and it is about 450 km from Paris so you'll not likely find tours to there from Paris. There is train service from Paris with continuation by bus. Please refer to www.officetourisme.ronchamp@wanadoo.fr for local information including a link to the chapel of N.D. du Haut. In local usage I think it is a chapel not a cathedrale. A local address for the TI is 14 Place du 14 Juillet, Ronchamp, 70250. Ronchamp is in the Haute Saone section of Franche Comte. Both the HS and FC have tourist offices. Search at-- office de tourisme haute saone (or ) office de tourisme franche comte. I am not sure if any of these sites have English versions. If you do not have even basic familiarty with French or a French dictionary, you can get translations at babelfish.com
HG
ILL USA Wed 11/02/2005

RS Backpack
I've been using the RS convertable rucksack for the past 9 years (14 trips) to Europe (and on the occasional stateside trip). It still looks and functions like brand new. I've never seen a more well-made bag. I'm 54, smoke, and drink like a fish, and get virtually no exercise except for when I walk constantly in Europe. I have no problems lugging it around even when I (usually!) over pack. Works for me.
Bob C. <email>
N Little Rock, AR USA Wed 11/02/2005

Where to go in April?
i'm going to france and italy (or maybe spain??) in april, and need help pruning my itinerary. are any of these places better than others during that time of year: the amalfi coast/rome? tuscany/florence? venice? catalunya/barcelona? provence? (no lavendar fields of course) burgandy? brittany? i already know normandy is wonderful in april, with the apple trees in bloom. and i won't go to rome during passion week and easter because of the crowds. can you tell me pluses and minuses for the other places during april? i'm determined NOT to try to cover too much ground this time, but need some reasons to eliminate some locations or put others at the top of my list.
Kate
USA Wed 11/02/2005

for Di - staying in Bayeaux
i didn't see mention of the bayeaux tapestry in any of your posts. i recommend it, for history of the only other successful invasion crossing the english channel/la manche, and for the beautiful needlework as art, and because it's just darn impressive. and on another note, one of my favorite souveniers: a shell from omaha beach. and it just now crossed my mind - is it even legal to take a shell from the beach there?
Kate
USA Wed 11/02/2005

Prague to Rome - cheap by rail
It is NOT impossible to get cheap rail tickets from Prague to Rome. If cheap tickets are your ONLY criteria, try this.

Use a Czech Rail ticket for 8.45 EUR (250 Czech Koruna), purchased in Prague, for the trains to the border at Bayerisch Eisenstein and a Bayern single ticket for 15 EUR on to Munich. Travel from Munich to Verona on the night train in a reclining seat for 29 EUR with a SparNight fare and from Verona to Rome for 15 EUR on an IC using the Freedom to Travel fare. Purchase the Bayern ticket in advance from German Rail, the night train ticket on www.nachtzugreise.de, and the IC ticket from Trenitalia.

That’s inexpensive - 67,45 EUR total, less than a ticket to fly, and you avoid the cost of a night’s hotel room.

If you want to use some of the saving on the hotel room for a little nicer accommodations, for 20 EUR more (88 EUR) you can have a bed in a couchette 6. For 98 EUR, you can make it a couchette 4.

If you call Deutsche Bahn’s ticket number for night trains (049 1805 14 15 14 -someone has always spoken English when I have called) you can get a reclining seat from Munich all the way to Rome for 29 EUR. That’s 53 EUR for transportation and accommodations, Prague to Rome, total. Or, you can get a private double on that same night train for a 69 EUR SparNight fare - 93 EUR, Prague to Rome.

In both cases, flying or train, the non-sleeping time is about the same.
<email>
USA Tue 11/01/2005

Where is Vergoncey? Di in Boston
There are two place names Vergoncey in France. One is in the Bourgogne near Dijon; the other is in Normandy near the Normandy/Brittany border just outside of Pontorson, the gateway to Le Mont Saint Michel. You can drive there via the A84/E3 exits 33 or 32, then D routes 30 into 163. On your map, D routes 163 and 363 intersect at Vergoncey. If you are using the Michelin Tourist and Motoring Atlas for France, the reference is map 36, grids A-4
Harvey
Illinois USA Tue 11/01/2005

Backpack- one more pro or con?
Whether the RS or another brand, the option to convert to a backpack is really nice to go up and down steep stairs at train stations or to haul yourself up ON to the train- then convert back to the shoulder- carry strap for getting to the hotel or through airports- you can switch sides when you get in pain!
USA Tue 11/01/2005

Backpack weight
Backpacks aren't for everybody. I've taken the Rick Steves packback on several trips & they always seem heavy to me. Carrying them very far wouldn't make me very happy. However, I'm middle-aged, have had a whiplash injury & have never been very strong. Now, my husband takes them on many trips & never complains. My daughter has the Rick Steves wheeled bag & I think I'm going to buy myself one next time I decide to travel light. Have to add that I don't think there are any better zippers in the world than on the Rick Steves bags.
Karen <email>
MN USA Tue 11/01/2005

Sitges Hotel
Paul--Platja D'Or Hotel in Sitges is a nice budget accomodation. We stayed there in 2003 and enjoyed it. 3 stars, some waterview rooms, 20 meters from beach across the road, polite staff, clean. A web search will turn up the phone #, address.
Richard
Bellingham, WA USA Tue 11/01/2005

Looking for Turin Help
We will be traveling to Turin, Italy mid-January (pre-Olympics) and are looking for reasonable accomodations for 5. Any advice on cheap, safe and well located hotels/pensions would be a gift from on high.

Also...We are trying to email Hotel Medicis in Paris. Have stayed there in 2004 and wanted to return in January. It's been 2 weeks and no response. Does anyone know if the hotel is still around or if their email address has changed. We loved their kitten Pousette. Happy travels. Thanks for the help
Fawn Marie <email>
St. Louis, MO USA Tue 11/01/2005

Football Tickets in London?
Tickets for Chelsea matches are very difficult to get. A ticket broker would be your best bet if you really want to attend the match.Scalpers outside the stadium are tolerated by the police, but there is a good chance that they won't even have any tickets to sell. When you arrive at the the stadium via the Underground, there will always be scalpers out side of the station. They will either be "Buying" or "Selling"; if they are "buying", your are just wasting your time, and should turn around and either go to a pub to watch the match or do something else. But always keep a close eye on chelsea's website, at the last minute they may sell extra tickets via the web.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Tue 11/01/2005

Sitges accomodation
any suggestions on places to stay in Sitges? I have been researching and most places seem a bit rough around the edges.
paul
USA Tue 11/01/2005

Re: Backpack Weight
Using your backpack for the first time will always strain you. This is determined by the level of activity you are at and how well you packed it. I suggest wearing it around the house fully packed (silly I know) before your trip. It will help those muscles develop. But be sure not to strain yourself to the point you render yourself an injury.
USA Tue 11/01/2005

Backpack weight?
I have a question for a those who have used the Rick Steves' Back Door Bag. I bought it for my month-long Europe trip next May, we will be staying mostly in hostels. So I used it for a quick trip to Cancun a few weeks ago, and I thought my back was going to break. As the airline worker put it on the scale, I was worried I wouldn't make the 50 pound weight cut-off. It weighed only 18 pounds!!!! Does anyone who uses this bag ever weigh their bag fully packed? Am I just being a big baby and need to start working on my back muscles?
Sara <email>
Denver, CO USA Tue 11/01/2005

Normandy & French Accomodations
Di-the Museum in Caen was great - be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to see it. We were there for 4 hours and would have stayed longer if we could. We had a car and very much enjoyed touring the different cities and D-Day sites. Consider visiting the German cemetary as well as the American one. Also - glad to hear that someone else has used the frenchconnections website. We used them for a week long stay in the Dordogne and had a lovely piece of an old Chateau for a great price.
USA Tue 11/01/2005

Normandy in May
Just a PS, after reading your second posting! How many will be in your party? Consider renting an apartment in Paris (www.phileas-fogg.com) The young man handling this site could not be more charming- came to our apartment during our week, just to meet us and see how he could assist us. Apartments in Paris are more expensive than in the country but for 5-7 days, ends up being cheaper than a hotel, and the blessing is being able to do some cooking, and having a home base to return to for a quick nap or a soda (any time you drink anything in a cafe, it is expensive!!) And keep in mind that the planning of this trip is 50% of the fun!
B. Jones
wa USA Tue 11/01/2005

Normandy in May
To Di- I agree with previous comments, and can only add a few suggestions: be sure to consider Rick's recommendation of bed and breakfast in Honfleur:Mme. Giaglis, La Cour Sainte Catherine (www.giaglis.com) We paid 72E for a large one bedroom suite and breakfast. When you visit Mont St Michel, consider spending the night on the island. Arrive late afternoon, see it all lit up at night, and wake up early to explore before the tour buses arrive. Make a reservation-don't expect to find a room available! As for a home base to do the Normandy beaches, we found a funky little bed and breakfast in Arromanches that we would return to: Le Manoir d'Arromanches, run by M. & Mme le Comte, just a few blocks from the beach. Brittany: we rented a 2 bedroom cottage from an English couple, located in Le Diben, tiny village, near Plougasnou and Morlaix. Found the cottage on www.frenchconnections.co.uk- The couple was absolutely charming- had us to their house for coffee and cake, and had great restaurant tips, etc. This was $640 for seven days. How many days will you be in France? You ought to plan at least a week in Paris, and another week for Normandy/Brittany; and do not miss Giverny. Having a home base and doing day driving trips was more relaxing than packing up each morning, and hunting for hotels. Continue to ask questions on this board as you plan your trip- there is a fund of travel wisdom here!
B. Jones <email>
wa USA Tue 11/01/2005

George from Di
Hi George:

You make some good points.

To "save time by not going back to CDG" for car drop, I will need to check the drop off sites carefully before I arrange the rental car. Also we do not want to drive into Paris at all!

Presently we have 4 bases and trimming it down to 3 is another good idea you have. Where is 'Vergoncey'? I can't find it on my michelin map or other maps I have of Normandy.

We have a strong interest in the military portion of the trip and want to take our time and break this interest down into parts.

We have time to see other aspects of Normandy so our thinking is this could be done going to and from our ON bases.

I just read about 'Trebeurden', it sounds lovely but we do not want to go that far east on this trip. Thanks for the tip & I'll put on the Brittany list.

Things we really want to do/see: Giverny, Honfleur, DDay:'Operation Overlord', Mount St. Michel.

If we base ourselves in Bayeux we'd definitely see some Norman Gothic architecture as we're thinking of not seeing Rouen on this trip.

No plans are firm yet.

We have thought of staying 2N at the beginning of the trip as you suggested to deal with jet lag & get our bearings. When you did this how did you spend your time in the Giverny area?
Di
Boston, USA Tue 11/01/2005

Normandy in May
For Di....Some suggestions for you. I think you will improve your first experience of France if you plot out your travel distances using viamichelin.com. If I counted correctly you have five different overnight locations. These are not very far apart. Using perhaps three more centrally located spots you can save time relocating. Consider: arrive CDG, pu car and drive to Giverny. Rest and stay two nights there. It will be beautiful in May. Then pick a central spot for D-Day touring, Honfleur visit, and MSM. We used Vergoncey. Stay two, perhaps three nights. Finally, pick a central spot for Brittany. Trebeurden would be a possibility. Allow plenty of time for Bayeau - it is fascinating but if you arrive while a tour or student group is there it goes very slowly. Visit Chartre on the way back to Paris. As to where to turn in the car - it depends on which company you rent from. Hertz has several locations in Paris including one under the Louvre. Yes, you can drive in Paris. Just confirm their hours. That will save you returning to CDG (which is located NW of Paris) and then traveling back into Paris. When you are ready to depart Paris consider using the RER. May is a great time for your visit. You are sure to have a wonderful time.
George
Philadelphia, USA Tue 11/01/2005

Normandy in mid May
Would like to hear from those of you who have traveled throughout the Normandy region during the middle of May.

What were the highlights for you? Where did you go? What did you do?

We're putting together an itinerary, with many 'Undecideds?' but having a car allows this gift. Your imput will be helpful.

Planning Itinerary:

D0 ON Fly BOS-CDG.

D1 Arrive Paris. Drive rental car to Giverny, enjoy.

Drive & arrive in 'Les Andelys' for late afternoon. ON here.

D2 Drive to 'Etretat', hike the cliff walks, relax. Drive to 'Fecamp', visit & tour 'Palais Benedictine'.

Drive to and ON in Honfleur.

D3 Relax, enjoy 'Honfleur'.

Undecided to leave late afternoon for Bayeux or stay ON?

D4 Leisurely make way to Bayeux via exploring the 'Route de Fromage'. Arrive Bayeux late afternoon. ON Bayeux.

D5 Morning enjoy Bayeux.

Afternoon visit the Peace Museum in Caen. ON Bayeux.

D6 Do a 1/2 day tour of British/Canadien role in DDay.

Take in leisurely lunch around Port-en-Bressins. Relax.

D7 Do a full day, self guided, American DDay tour, go West to East ending at Cemetery in 'Colleville'.

D8 Leisurely drive to 'MSM' via 'La Suisse Normandie' route, enjoy.

or drive via 'St Lo, Coutances, coastal road'

Arrive 'MSM' late afternoon. ON here.

D9 Tour MSM when opens.

Drive via 'La Suisse Normandie' to Chartres?

Drive to Chartres, visit.

Where to drop off car? Drop car in Chartres, take late train to Paris or drive to CDG and drop car there?

Paris stay 6-7 nights depending on Normandy decisions?

This will be our 1st time to France.
Di
Boston, USA Tue 11/01/2005

Football Tickets in London?
Travelling to London in 10 days and am desperate to see the Chelsea v. Newcastle football match on 19 Nov. Tickets are sold out, has anyone ever bought tickets for a football match from a ticket broker or scalper? Is it illegal or risky? Any tips appreciated
Brian <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 11/01/2005

Northwest at Paris DeGaulle Airport
Beware that Northwest has changed terminals at Charles DeGaulle Airport in Paris. They are now in the Air France terminal (3E) but they failed to tell passengers that they have changed terminals. We found out the hard way. Please ignore the directory in the RER trains because it has not been updated.
Doug Ellingson <email>
Chanhassen, MN USA Tue 11/01/2005

Ronchamp
Just wondering if anyone could help with train/bus directions to Ronchamp in France (the Notre Dame du Haut cathedral in particular). Or are tours available departing from, say, Paris? Thanks in advance!
Rach
Melbourne, Australia Tue 11/01/2005

Re: Best time for Greece
We have been to Greece in May and in September, both were wonderful times to go. Big deciding point is amount of beach, if you are into swimming and sunning in the islands, September wins, weather is good, water is warm. If just sites, then either is fine, in fact as early as mid-april and into October works. While no personal experience, nearly everyone agrees that July/August is best to avoid, but mainly in the islands and on the coasts, nearly all of Europe is said to be there.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 10/31/2005

Prague to Rome
You can try SmartWings...it doesn't fly Prague-Rome every single day, but you can get flights for about $100 US, all up. Check them at http://www.smartwings.net/en
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 10/31/2005

northern Italy weather late fall
Regarding late fall weather, We just returned from a 11 day trip to Valle D'Aosta, Piedmont, Cinque Terre and ALps from MAtterhorn to Montreux Switzerland area. We encountered no weather below 50 F except when we took the lift up to the ski area at the Monte Cervino area (Matterhorn from the Italy side) Blue skys mostly with hazy area in the Piedmont but delightful weather all in all. I have been to Northern Italy 3 times in the last 4 years always in the mid to late October and have never encountered any significant bad weather. FLowers still boooming generally everywhere. (Got home Saturday to a frost in Georgia!)
Jim todd <email>
Dalton , Ga USA Mon 10/31/2005

GREECE
I spent the month of September in greece a couple of years ago and the weather was perfect. Still warm if you are a sun worshipper, mostly in the 80's. And it was not very crowded. The prices in September are also much lower. Flew in and out of Athens. Spent several days in Athens on each end of the trip. Flew to Santorini, about $60, then took a ferry to Paros and then a ferry to Mykonos. Flew back to Athens from Mykonos - another $60. Spent about a week on each island. All three islands were great. Santorini and Mykonos are the most famous but Paros was really nice. Plenty to do on all three.
Mike
Niwot, Co USA Mon 10/31/2005

Prague to Rome
I'm trying to find a cheap flight from Prague to Rome or a cheap rail ticket but this is impossible. Please help.
USA Mon 10/31/2005

Greece- lucky you!
Most of the guidebooks will say to avoid July and August, but that was the only time we could go to Greece- some days it got up to 100 degrees, and of course, all the crowds at the sites. We had three weeks- I think it depends a lot on what you are interested in and plan from there. Athens is big and dirty and in my opinion a starting- off place- however, the Plaka district of the city was fantastic and we loved every minute of our five days there. Twisty little streets and very close to the Acropolis. We stayed at the Electra Palace (they have a Website, I checked) but make sure it is the PLAKA one. With a little rooftop pool that looks directly across at the Acropolis and you can eat and drink up there. The breakfasts were included and huge- so we could skip lunch every day. We are mythology buffs so that was our focus. We took a day trip to Delphi, and also spent a week touring the islands. You might want to read about each to decide which best suits. Kusadasi was amazing and it really felt like another continent- camels! Turkish rugs! Then we went to Crete (by air). We only had two days and that was a mistake. A week would've been better. If you are hikers (we are) the descent through the gorge was unforgetable. Have a fabulous trip!!!
USA Mon 10/31/2005

GREECE
Looking to plan a trip to Greece. We are looking for best time of year to go, sites to see, how much time would be good to plan for Greece, and any other ideas to look into for that area of travel.
Bill <email>
Salem, Oregon USA Mon 10/31/2005

Bruges
Teresa in Ga~~~We spent two days and nights in Bruges recently before going to Paris. Brussels did not seem that appealing to us so we took the train to Bruges which we found very walkable, friendly, charming with excellent restaurants. Loved it!
Nancy
USA Mon 10/31/2005

CONVENT MONASTERY
Packman~~~~~do a google search for “ CONVENT MONASTERY HOUSING PARIS”
NANCY
PHILADELPHIA, USA Mon 10/31/2005

LATE FALL WEATHER SPAIN, NORTHERN ITALY
Shari: My wife and I have traveled in Spain during October and November several times. The weather was moderate.

A sweater in the morning and shorts in the afternoon. I don’t remember any rain the time we were there. I would take only a light jacket just in case you need it.
C. C. W.
TX USA Mon 10/31/2005

Convents/Monasteries
On our last trip to Rome we stayed in a convent recomended by Rick Steves, it was like a super clean and quiet hotel (no TV's) and very reasonable. Does anyone know of a convent or monasterie in Paris that rents to the public, or how to find out about them. Thanks
Packman <email>
Franklin, Mi USA Mon 10/31/2005

re: Late fall weather, Spain...
Shari, I was in Madrid and Barcelona the second week of November '02, and the weather was beautiful during the whole trip (wore just a light denim coat layered over a thin sweater).
Fiona
NYC, Mon 10/31/2005