Graffiti Wall: Travelers' Helpline

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Travelers' Helpline: February 2006

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.

Rail Pass
Tom,

I suggest you call Euraide, the phone number is 941 480-1555. I used them for making train reservations for my upcoming trip. They have been very helpful. I believe that if you email them your itinerary they will help you select the right pass.
Jill
HI USA Tue 02/28/2006

TSA Locks
I did a search for "TSA Locks" on the FlyerTalk Forums web site (http://www.flyertalk.com/ -- Questions -- Search -- "TSA Locks") and the answers were all over the place. Great reading but nothing conclusive.

I'm left with the feeling that if you're going to buy new locks anyway they should be TSA Approved but, in the end, it really doesn't make too much difference. Your stuff may or may not get ripped off, your lock may or may not get cut, you may or may not get reimbursed for whatever you loose, the airport official that you talk to may or may not care, .......................... You get the idea.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Tue 02/28/2006

travel connections
My husband and I are flying into Madrid the end of May, 2006. We plan to take the train to Valencia but our final destination is Alicante. Is there a train or a bus to and from Valencia and if so when does it run?
Chris Palesh <email>
Parker, CO USA Tue 02/28/2006

Cheap tickets to Dublin
If you are looking for a cheap way to get to Dublin try sidestep.com. I just booked mine for this summer. Less than $400, which also includes taxes and fees.
Rebecca
New York, NY USA Tue 02/28/2006

Credit card surcharge
According to Easyjet's website: "A transaction fee will be applied when you pay by Visa debit or credit card, MasterCard, Diners Club, American Express, ELV, or Maestro/Switch, except for payments by Carte Bleu or Visa Electron. Credit cards incur a percentage charge of 1.95% of the total amount payable, with a minimum charge of £4.95. Debit cards, except Carte Blue or Visa Electron, are subject to a fixed £1 charge."
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Tue 02/28/2006

Music
I LOVE the idea of a Music for the Journey category, too!
USA Tue 02/28/2006

Music for the Journey
Cloe,

I second your motion for adding a "Music For The Journey" to the boards. I too added quite a bit of Irish music to my iPod before going a couple of years ago. Now I'm prepairing for France and would love some suggestions.
USA Tue 02/28/2006

Credit card surcharge
I just booked Milan-LGW with Easyjet and was charged 7.5 euro for using my credit card! Nothing like this last time I used them - anyone have any info about this charge?
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Tue 02/28/2006

Music for the Journey
So Rick, as much as you really love music, I am surprised that you do not have a section of the Wall called Music for the Journey, in the manner of Books for the Journey. Before my family and I went to the British Isles, we listed to many CDs by the Baltimore Consort to put us in the mood. Music to me is as evocative as literature, and I think it would be marvelous if you perhaps added "Music for the Journey" as part of the Wall. Thanks so much for everything you do.
Cloe
Minneapolis, MN USA Tue 02/28/2006

2 for 1 EuroStar Special
The London Telegraph is currently offering a promotion for 2 for 1 EuroStar Tickets from their website:

www.telegraph.co.uk/eurostar

You have to know at least 4 of the passwords that have been published in the paper...discovery, secret, surprise, intrigue
Tim
Knoxville, TN USA Tue 02/28/2006

Rail Pass
Tom, Click on the tab above that says "Railpasses". Rick gives a great breakdown and easy to read maps. You can calculate if point-to-point tickets would be cheaper.
USA Tue 02/28/2006

Rail Pass
If someone could pleae help me understand what type of rail pass I sould buy. There will be 3 of us traveling be train a total of about 15 days. Starting off inberlin then Warsawq-Krakow-Prague-Venice-Florence and last Rome. Can someone help me.

Thanks Tom
Tom Kohanski <email>
Cleveland, Ohio USA Tue 02/28/2006

Place to stay in Rothenburg
I would love recommendations for a place to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. I want to stay inside the walls. I don't need a luxury place, but also don't want a "bare bones" place with shared bathrooms, etc. Something clean, with decent sized bedrooms would be good, as I'm sharing a room with my daughter. Your help would be appreciated. Thanks!!
Gary <email>
Cary, NC USA Tue 02/28/2006

Trip to Rome and Tuscany
Denise,

I would move three times. It is so relaxing to stay in the countryside. And you'll need the rest after being in Rome!

Whatever you do stay close to the airport the night before. I did this last time I went and it made a huge difference. It was only my friend and I, no children, and we still barley made our 8am flight. Moving is alot better than missing your flight and sitting in the airport for hours. Remember, you have to be there 2hours before the flight and then you need time to get to the airport and if you're driving you need time to drop off the car and time to get ready in the morning....
Lisa
San Jose, CA USA Tue 02/28/2006

TSA Locks
TSA Locks are accepted in Europe, for the most part. In Germany I had no problem. In Italy, when we landed in Milan, my locks were ok, but my mom's was removed. So its hit and miss, depending on the TSA I guess
USA Tue 02/28/2006

Left Luggage
Jaybee: You can find info about left luggage at Luton at:

www.london-luton.co.uk/en/content.asp?area=2&id=89. It says:

Left Luggage There is Left Luggage Storage facility which is accesible 24 hours a day and it is situated next to Outsize Baggage in the check-in hall.

Prices are £4.00/ €6.60 per item per 24 hours and payments can be made in British Sterling Pound, Euro (€5 and €10 notes only) and by credit card.

Change will be given in British Sterling Pound only and no refunds are available on this service.
Carlos
Dallas, TX USA Tue 02/28/2006

Jacquie Bound for Dublin: It is perfectly possible to see your luggage checked all the way through to your dsestination. It is also possible that your bags may turn out to be missing upon arrival (this happened to me twice on BA flights to Milan and Verona). This is inconvenient but seldom fatal and in each case BA proved very helpful in resolving the problem. The vast majority of bags do NOT go missing but you'd be well advised to have the essentials for coping over 2-3 days in your carryon bag---and you may be happily surprised at how little is required to manage until your main bag turns up. As the man keeps saying: PACK LIGHT. Best wishes
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 02/28/2006

TSA Locks
Luggage Locks Question-Can the TSA Combo Locks be used in Europe? Are they more trouble than they are worth in the airport security lines? USA 02/27/2006
USA Tue 02/28/2006

Trip to Rome and Tuscany
Want some opinions! Will be going to Rome/Tuscany from June 5th - 15th. All set with an apartment in Rome from the 6th - 9th. The next leg is to Tuscany and the Florence area, with a VERY early flight back to the states on June 15th. Is it more convenient to stay closer to Florence and move the family only twice (Rome and then Tuscany)or to stay more centrally in Tuscany and then get a hotel in Florence for the last night (14th)? If I do the latter, it means five of us staying in Rome, then a place in Tuscany and then another place in Florence to be close to the airport. Have heard great things about one of the farmhouses more near Siena, but then it means moving three times.

At this point, I'm leaning toward staying in Florence and doing day trips to Siena and the other villages. Opinions?? Thanks!
Denise <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Tue 02/28/2006

Toilet Paper
I always carry those little "purse packs" of kleenex -- one in my camera bag, and one in my backpack. In 3 Europe trips (France & England) I've had to use them twice. Lack of TP isn't more of a problem than it is in touristy areas of the US, but occasionally quality is. Now and then, you encounter TP that is so hard and rough, that you will be glad to have an option.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Tue 02/28/2006

Heathrow Arrival Expectations
Steve E,. I don't think you'll be able to get through all of that in 1 hour and 15 mins. LHR is just too congested.
Lisa
San Jose, CA USA Tue 02/28/2006

Toilet Paper
My brother in law just advised us to make sure we have tp when using the public toilets in France & Italy as they usually have none. Have recent travelers found this to be true?
Alexandra Martella <email>
Longmont, CO USA Tue 02/28/2006

Heathrow Arrival Expectations
I'm scheduled to land in Heathrow on Thursday, March 9th at 12:00 noon from Terminal 4 (British Airways). My first scheduled destination is Bath. I had planned on taking the bus. Although there are several buses that go through Bath, only two are "direct." These depart the central bus terminal at 13:15 and 14:45. Is there a reasonable expectation that I could retrieve my luggage, get through customs, and make it to the central terminal (via free shuttle) and make the 13:15 bus?

I know there are other options and the Heathrow Express to Paddington, then train to Bath, is a back-up, but much more costly when multiplied by the two of us. So our first choice is the bus, but we would prefer the 13:15 if we could.
Steve E. <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Tue 02/28/2006

Luton Airport
Does Luton Airport have 24 hour luggage storage like LHR? I've been searching the internet without success. Thanks.
jaybee
USA Mon 02/27/2006

BARGAIN AIR FARES
You might want to try www.lidl.es for inexpensive air fares in Europe. Now they have 29Euros for flight between different cities in Europe.
Claudia
Peru Mon 02/27/2006

Train Vendors
If you book far enough in advance using a national rail site (www.nationalrail.co.uk for England and www.sncf.com for France), you may be able to get a discount ticket. Send me an e-mail if you'd like a more detailed explanation about how to do it.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 02/27/2006

airport to Rome
To Kevin, skip the Taxi from the airport. It is a rip off. they quote you an estimate but then charge you different and argue w/ the passenger til you run down. Take the train as suggested previously to termini station then taxi or walk from there. start your ARome trip on a good note.
JS
Ca USA Mon 02/27/2006

London to Athens by train
You can get very detailed instructions on doing that by going here: http://www.seat61.com/Greece.htm
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 02/27/2006

London to Athens by train
Has anyone taken the train from London to Athens (ferry from Italy to Greece). Two friends and I are intersted in doing this in May. Thanks in advance.
Sue <email>
Seattle, WA USA Mon 02/27/2006

Air travel
Betty, Michael is right-on about open-jaws. Try to use it.

However, be cautious about RyanAir. Of the twelve largest cities in Germany, Ryan doesn't serve three at all. Schoenefeld (Berlin), although not the primary airport, is about as convenient as the other airports around Berlin.

The other eight airports are secondary airports over an hour from their downtown, vs. less than half hour for most of the primary airports. In the case of Hahn, it is almost two hours from Frankfurt, by bus.
<email>
USA Mon 02/27/2006

Transfer Rome airport to city center
Take the train. it's so easy, runs every 1/2 hour or so, very inexpensive. Just a little walk from the terminal at the airport. Signs lead you the way, and you buy a ticket, validate it and hop on the train.

Once at the Termini, go outside for a taxi to take you to the hotel. if you leave out of Rome, simply reverse the process.

Don't bother with a cab, too expensive, the train is just so easy!
<email>
USA Mon 02/27/2006

Re: Annexe Hotel
My husband and I stayed at the Winchester Hotel on Belgrave Road last November. We had a double room with private bath. On the smallish side, but nice. And the people at the hotel were very helpful and informative. Around 85 pounds as I remember, which included a huge breakfast. Within 5-10 minutes of Victoria Station. Nice neighborhood with quite a few little restaurants.
Jacquie <email>
St. Petersburg, FL USA Mon 02/27/2006

Transfer from Rome airport
For a transfer from FCO airport to the Rome city center try viator.com. It's only about 16 or 17 usd. We used it in September and it was great, they drop you off right at your hotels front door. Which is nice if your jet-lagged and don't know the city very well.
A
San Diego, CA USA Mon 02/27/2006

Annexe Hotel in London
I'm trying to find the cheapest...but still clean and safe place to stay in London. Has anyone stayed at Annexe Hotel...it's close to Victoria Station? If you haven't stayed there, do you have any other reccommendations? My husband and I are looking for a private room with either a shared or private bath. Thanks ahead of time for any feedback.
Laura <email>
Burbank, CA USA Mon 02/27/2006

Airport to Rome transportation
Kevin, take the express train for 9.50 E. Very easy.
Bob <email>
Gettysburg, PA USA Mon 02/27/2006

Luggage Question
Your luggage will be checked all the way to Dublin. When you make a connection at a European airport you don't have to do go through customs or immigration checkpoints.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 02/27/2006

Transportation from Rome Airport
Has anyone ever take a shuttle from Rome airport to city center? Any recommendations? or should I just take a Taxi? I have done this during trip to Paris, not sure about Rome. Thanks in Advance
Kevin
SF, CA USA Mon 02/27/2006

Luggage Question
My husband and I will be taking our second trip to Europe. We are flying British Airways direct from Tampa to London Gatwick. We have a 3 hour layover and will then be flying London Gatwick to Dublin. (We had a valid reason for making the arrangements this way ...) My question is: Will BA check our bags through to Dublin when we check in at Tampa? We're both a bit afraid that our luggage may end up sitting on a conveyor in Dublin and get stolen (or something). Can anyone give us any information regarding this? Any help would be greatly appreciated since we've never attempted to do this.
Jacquie <email>
St. Petersburg, FL USA Mon 02/27/2006

More on Prehistoric Sites
I agree with previous postings about Lascaux II. It's well done, but there is something special about knowing that you are seeing the real thing. In addition to Peche Merle, there are awesome prehistoric sites at Les Eyzies and L'Abri du Cap Blanc. The latter has relief sculptures, rather than paintings. These two are close to each other and can be done on the same day. Also in that general area (the Dordogne) is the not-to-be-missed Goufre de Padirac, a gigantic cave system with no paintings, but fabulous rock formations.
RH
Berkeley, CA USA Mon 02/27/2006

Train vendors
Melanie, In general, based on cost and flexibility issues, it is not advisable to purchase point to point tickets in advance from any “stateside” vendor.

There are a few exceptions where advance purchase of tickets is advisable. Most notable are night trains, for which there is usually only one option per night between any pair of cities. These trains often sell out, sometimes as much as a month in advance.

During high volume times, popular premium trains, like Thalys, can sell out. This is particularly true for rail pass users. Get your reservations for these trains in advance.

If you have a long day of travel, where missing one train would mean you didn’t get to your destination, you should reserve in advance.

In most cases, however, you can reserve your trains at a ticket counter after you get to Europe.

If you do want to buy in advance, the best place is on a national rail website, where you will get the lowest full fare price and might even find an lower promotional fare, such as SNCF’s PREMS fare.
USA Mon 02/27/2006

Norm & Kate re: Tube
Thank you both for your responses. I recall that the escalators are very steep, & the website said luggage is one of the top five causes of injuries. I've decided to try the NAtional Express motorcoach from Heathrow to Luton.
jaybee
USA Mon 02/27/2006

Afternoon tea
Nikki~~for afternoon tea go to The Orangery it sets 50 yards from Kensington Palace. It's beautiful inside. We go there every trip to London.
USA Mon 02/27/2006

Luggage on the London Underground
That's a LOT of luggage for the tube. Jamming into the subway cars, up and down escalators (and maybe some stairs), and those subway cars aren't large! And if I remember correctly, you have a fair hike from the subway station up the street to the Kings Cross railway station, past all sorts of construction, to catch the train to Luton. It might be far easier to splurge and take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station, then cab it directly to Kings Cross.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 02/27/2006

Medical insurance for Slovakia
This is a direct quote from the Slovak Embassy website (www.slovakembassy-us.org): "According to a new Slovak Law on the Residence of Aliens No. 48/01, modified by 408/02 an 606/03, para 4/2 b, the border police has a right to request a proof of a travel medical insurance policy covering all hospitalization and medical treatment costs in Slovakia. This policy is a same in EU members states. U. S. citizens are strongly advised to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad, to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it covers emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased." I have seen a similar warning about the Czech Republic.

As it says, even if you have medical insurance it is unlikely to cover emergency evacuation. I recommend www.tenweb.com: when I broke my wrist in Switzerland last year they provided a car and driver to take me to Geneva airport, and the flights home.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Mon 02/27/2006

Northern Greece
I'm spending a few days in Northern Greece before joining a Rick Steves' Greece tour, and could use recommendations for hotels in Kastoria and Ioannina. Pension/B&B type preferred. Also, for after the tour, any suggestions for Chania & Rethymno on Crete, or for Kos Town? I'm looking for singles, en suite nice but not essential, hopefully under 70 euro/night, cheaper is better! Since this is for April, I doubt AC is necessary...
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Mon 02/27/2006

Carry-ons Air France
For all the baggage info for Air France, go to www.airfrance.us. Click on Information and services > Practical information > Baggage > Hand baggage.

Air France has a very generous weight allowance for cabin baggage at 12 kg (26 lb). Size limit is any combination totaling 45 inches, including wheels and handles.
CO USA Mon 02/27/2006

train vendors
Hi, My husband and I will be traveling in England & France next month. I was trying to purchase train tickets on-line but don't know which vendor to use. Is one better than the other?
Melanie
Dallas, Tx USA Mon 02/27/2006

There are a variety of GROUNDED plug styles used by countries throughout Europe. The style most commonly used in Italy, for instance, is incompatible with that used in many northern European countries.

However, the UNGROUNDED Type C plug, with two round pins, fits into grounded receptacles all over continental Europe. That is the adapter sold by ETBD. Note: the Type C plug is rated for less than 2½ amps, so technically can not be used with a hair dryer (but we do it anyway).

Type B is an American style plug with flat blades and a grounding pin. You might find it in some military housing in Europe, which would also be 120V. I believe my hotel room in London had a Type B receptacle (in addition to UK style), but with 240V.

For everything you want to know about European plug design, go to users.pandora.be/worldstandards/electricity.htm#plugs.
<email>
USA Mon 02/27/2006

adaptor plugs
Italy uses the standard Europen plug the rest of the continent uses (excluding Great Britain). Rick sells them on this website.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 02/27/2006

adaptor plugs
Does anyone know what adaptor plug to use in Italy? On the web I have gotten conflicting answers. Some say "B" and some say "C". Thanks.
USA Mon 02/27/2006

Dubrovnik soba
Does anyone know if Paulina Cumbelic has an email address in Dubronik? If not, do you have any other suggestions where you have stayed before? Thank you and please post to my email address.
Judy <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Mon 02/27/2006

Barcelona
Hello, i am a 27 yo mexican girl i am going to barcelona just for 1 weekend and i was wondering if somebody know of a very cheap hotel..... Thanks
Andrea <email>
USA Mon 02/27/2006

Carry-ons Air France
It may not just be the dimensions of your bag that Air France checks. Many European airlines maintain strict WEIGHT limits as well--often 6 kg or approximately 14 lbs. Definitely check with the airline!
Lori
USA Mon 02/27/2006

Thanks for the CDG Shuttle and RER Info
Lee and Terry, thank you for your suggestions for the CDG shuttle and RER information.

Lee, thanks for sending the parisnet.net link. I'll continue to look through it. It had some interesting info on the 20 different neighborhoods, or arrondissements in Paris. I didn't know that!

Thanks again!
Sue
DB, CA USA Sun 02/26/2006

Tea in London
My husband and I will be in London in March and would like to partake in Afternoon Tea, but would rather not have to take out a loan. Any suggestions?
Nikki
Houston, USA Sun 02/26/2006

Sara Luggage issues
I love my Eagle Creek ORV duffle. It is large enough for 2 weeks of clothing, has compartments that can be rearranged to fit shoes, flat clothing etc. It is carry on size and has hidden back pack straps that make carrying it a breeze if needed. It is my "go to" bag for overseas trips. Looks very nice too, and is not as expensive as Tumi.

Find this bag at www.ebags.com. put in Eagle Creek for your search. There are other roller bags...but I don't like those for travel to Europe either. Tumi is too expensive for what you get, and they don't last any longer than other bags.....
USA Sun 02/26/2006

Beaune, Dijon for Andrew
This is not a bad idea if you like the pace, but you should understand that stopping off in Burgundy entails more time on the train than the otherwise short trip to Lyon from Paris. That’s because Paris-Lyon as a straight shot on the TGV takes 2 hours. Dijon, also on the TGV, is about 1:45, and Dijon-Lyon is the same.

Dijon may not be that satisfying to explore for only a few hours compared to Beaune, which is smaller but still interesting. Beaune is about 20 minutes from Dijon, on a local train line. Beaune-Lyon is another 1:30 or 2 hours. So you could wind up spending as much as 5 hours on the train as opposed to 2 hours.

If you are really into the hop-off-hop on sort of thing there are lots of interesting stops you could make on this route: Auxerre (though the train station is far from the old town center), or the abbey at Fontenay (cab from Montbard), and lots of little towns on the local from Beaune to Lyon.
Adam
Boston, USA Sun 02/26/2006

Slovakia/Health Insurance
Janis, I went to Slovakia a year and a half ago and they never asked me for proof of health insurance. They stamped my passport and it was as easy as that. I flew through Vienna, then drove through the border. If you are flying directly into Bratislava (I am doing so in May), it may be different, but I doubt it.
Bryan <email>
Maryland USA Sun 02/26/2006

Air Travel
Betty, Flying into London, and back home via Germany is called "open-jaw" ticketing, and it usually doesn't cost much more then a standard round trip ticket. You didn't mention where in Germany you daughter lives, but if it is near Koln, you could take the high-speed Thalys train from Paris into Germany. But, you may want to consider flying into Paris first, then taking the chunnel into London. Both Easyjet and Ryanair fly have very cheap fares between the London airports and most all major cities in Germany.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 02/26/2006

RER to Charles de Gaulle
We had always used airport shuttle minivans to get from CDG to our Paris hotels. However, on our last trip, we got a very apologetic call from the shuttle service to our hotel, saying that their driver hadn't been able to come to work that day, so our ride to the airport was cancelled. (They emailed an apology to us when we got home and didn't charge us for the first trip from CDG to our hotel.) Our first response was panic since we needed to leave immediately to catch our plane. Luckily, I had my Rick Steves Paris guide, with specific instructions on how to take the RER train to the airport. I originally hadn't considered this because I thought our luggage would be a nuisance to other people on the train. After seeing MANY people on the Metro with much more luggage than we ever carry, I stopped worrying about this. We couldn't believe how much faster and easier it was to take the train! Traffic in Paris can be S-L-O-W! We will always just take the RER now, saving lots of money and time.
Terry
Bend, OR USA Sun 02/26/2006

Re: Munich to Budapest
Pearl, you have certainly hit on a knotty problem. There don't seem to be many (any) people who sell tickets for that night train, at least not in a convenient format.

Per DB, full fare from Munich to Budapest is €93,20. With a full fare ticket you can purchase an Aufpreis (supplement, reservation) for that night train in a couchette 6/4 for €19,50/€25. That would be the price if you bought the supplement over there. That's $135/$142 for the total fare. For a double compartment, the Aufpreis is €39 per person, about $160 total. That is an estimate, probably high, of the price, if you can find it as a single fare. But, you should be able to get that price, at least.

You can always call Rail Europe and see if they can sell that offline. Their price for couchette 6/4 is $156/$222. The price for a double would obviously be more.

DB may sell the compartment tickets by phone if you call them at 49 1805 99 66 33. Or you might call Nachtzug Reise at 49 1805 14 15 14. Either number should have someone available who speaks English. The advantage of calling one of these numbers is that you might get the SparNight fare of as low as €69 ($83) per person in a double, total fare.

Another option is to purchase the full fare ticket for DB for €93,20, then get the supplement from Euraide. They show the price of the supplement as €42. They are a US based company with a US phone and people who speak English. The advantage is you know the price, 93,20 plus 42 = 135,20 EUR or about $162. Unfortunately, they add a service and shipping fee of $45. But that is still probably cheaper than RE.
<email>
USA Sun 02/26/2006

CDG Shuttle Service
Sue,

You might consider the Air France buses, which leave Terminal 1 at CDG every 15 minutes, I think. Here's a link that has current info:

http://www.parisnet.net/info_airplane.html

We've used the Air France bus on 2 trips, and it is comfortable and cheap. There are discounts for round-trip and for groups, be sure to ask when you buy the tickets, which are sold at a booth at the bus pick-up point. The buses stop at only 4 spots in Paris, all major Metro stations. So, you'll likely need to take the subway to your final destination.
Lee <email>
Arvada, Colorado USA Sun 02/26/2006

Air Travel
My husband and I are traveling from Portland,Oregon this fall.We are ending in Germany where our daughters family is presently staying-but would first like to go to London-then take the chunnel to France and somehow from there get to Germany.Can anyone suggest what the best way to do this is? Can we still get round trip airplane tickets if we go to London first and then go from Germany back to Oregon?
Betty S
Albany, Or USA Sun 02/26/2006

Travelers Insurance
Janis, No matter where you travel, should always buy travel insurance which covers medical and evacuation costs. Most Blue Cross plans don't cover expenses overseas, and those that do may not also cover evacuation charges. For example, should you suffer a severe log break which requires special seating to get you back home, those charges start at $20,000 USD! I have heard horror stories about travelers who have been financially ruined by these charges. Most policies only cost a couple dollars a day, so there is no excuse not buy one.

There are lots of companies that sell travel health insurance, I happen to use this company: http://www.travelinsure.com/
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 02/26/2006

Apartments for rent?
My husband and I want to rent a room or apartment for a month or so in Spain, Italy, Greece and who knows where else. Is there any place to look online or is just best to look when we get there?
Wendy <email>
Bass Lake, Ca USA Sun 02/26/2006

Paris on holiday May 8
Monday May 8, 2006 is a holiday in France... How crowded will museums, restaurants, etc in Paris become during the 3-day holiday weekend? Should we avoid it? We're only in Paris for 5 days, and don't want the holiday to make it a hassle, plus we have a 5 month old travelling... We're thinking about changing our itinerary to arrive in Paris after the May 8 - any advice?
gjb <email>
Santa Cruz, CA USA Sun 02/26/2006

7 days in Italy
I will be in flying in/out of Budapest to the US. But I have seven extra days to travel to Italy. I would love to spend time in the Chinque Terre’s, Rome and Venice ( I think skip Florence due to time, right?)

My available dates are: leave Budapest either April 23 or the 24 (pref). Need to be back in Budapest by the afternoon of April 30 to fly back to the US May 1. Is it possible to do all that I want to do? How do I get started? Where should I fly in/out of? (From Budapest)
David Welch <email>
San Diego, CA USA Sun 02/26/2006

HOTELS IN NICE
FOR ANNE IN VANCOUVER: Ibis hotels offer rooms in three hotels from 64 euros: http://www.ibishotel.com/ibis/index.html
Graham <email>
Sun 02/26/2006

Travelers Insurance
I just went on the embassy site for Slovakia, where I am going in April. It says I need proof of health insurance to enter. Is this different than what I have (Blue Cross). Should I purchase traveler's insurance? Help
Janis F. <email>
Erie, PA USA Sun 02/26/2006

CDG Shuttle Service Reviews
Could someone give me some recommendations on the shuttle service at CDG airport? I've read in Rick's guidebooks his recommendations for Golden Air, Airport Connection, and Paris Airports Service.

However, I've read a few complaints about poor service with Golden Air shuttle.

We are leaving the first week of April this year.

Thanks in advance for your help!
Sue
DB, CA USA Sun 02/26/2006

travel med insurance
My husband and I will be traveling around the world this year. does anyone know of good travel medical insurance that includes med evacuation? we have started getting vaccinations from a local travel doctor. is there anything else we should look into before we go?
Wendy <email>
Bass Lake, Ca USA Sun 02/26/2006

Luggage Issues
I travel to Europe, a lot, for work. Last week my faithful bag of many years broke. Now I am looking for new luggage but I do not want a rolling bag. It needs to be small to carry-on but also large enough to fit all my work clothing. My old bag was similar to a small garmet bag, if that makes any sense, with roughly the measurements of 22 X 14 X 7. I prefer not to get a duffel bag. Does anyone have any experience with Tumi bags? Any suggestion on bags would be GREAT!!!
Sara
USA Sun 02/26/2006

Airfrance Luggage
Air France is notorious for being luggage Nazis. You have to be exact on your luggage otherwise it's being checked.
USA Sun 02/26/2006

World War I Battle Sights
My husband and I are signed up for the Rick Steves' Best of France tour which begins and ends in Paris. I'm desperate to see some WWI battlesights since my master's thesis is on chemical warfare in WWI. What is the best way to do this? Can we drive to the Somme from Paris? Train available? Add this on to the end of the tour?
Merrry <email>
Bellevue, WA USA Sun 02/26/2006

Luggage on the Tube
I just lugged a huge suitcase through the Tube yesterday, so it's certainly permitted.

The real problem is likely to be the stairs - I'd research your route very carefully on www.tfl.gov.uk and make sure that you won't encounter any stairs. And then be prepared to climb some anyway. Also, some of the escalalators are very long and steep, so you want to have bags that will balance well on a narrow stair otherwise it can be quite dangerous.

Also, there has been a lot of construction on various lines recently, so it's advisable to check back frequent to make sure there won't be a diversion that forces you onto a nasty set of stairs.

Kate
Kate
Scotland Sun 02/26/2006

Munich to Budapest
We would like to take the overnight train from Munich to Budapest in early May. The bahn.de web site says that reservations are available, but the pricing for a sleeper is not. Does anyone have any idea how much one would cost and how to book a 2 person sleeper? (rail europe can only book couchettes.)Is it ok to wait until we get to Germany to book it? Any experiences on this train?
Pearl <email>
Greensboro, NC USA Sun 02/26/2006

hotel in Brussels
Bill-we stayed at the Royal Windsor Grand Platz. Great location to all sights and the Grand Platz-3 blocks away. highly recommend it.
Bill
Newburgh, NY USA Sun 02/26/2006

Re Carry on luggage
I found AirFrance picky. One lady had a carry-on that another line had allowed, and she got sent back to check it. LOL
Sharon
Bowie, MD USA Sun 02/26/2006

Carry-ons on Airfrance
We're flying from PHL to Paris on USAir and intend to use carry-ons only. We're allowed 51" (combined dimensions). That's OK. BUT, then we're flying from Paris to Cairo on Airfrance and they only allow 45" (combined dimensions) for carry-ons. How picky is Airfrance about this? We don't wanna check our bags if we don't have to.
Tom <email>
Summerville, SC USA Sun 02/26/2006

re:Beaune, Dijon
Hi Andrew, Of course they are worth stopping for a day, even more! (have you seen my pictures? If not yet look at "Re:Two days outside of Paris???" below)

I don't know for Beaune station but there are lockers at Dijon train station. Go to the tourist office next to place Darcy (on your way from the station) and ask for the owl's trail guide to see all the interesting sites in Dijon centre. Welcome to Burgundy! :-)
corinne
Dijon, France Sun 02/26/2006

Skellig Michael Boat Trip - Help
Help, I've e-mailed 2 of the boat trip operators trying to see if they will be operating Sat 15 April this year, but can't get a reply. Don't want to book a room in Portmagee if we can't get out to Skellig Michael. Anyone have any info or pointers? Would appreciate help - my son so wants to climb the Skellig. Thanks!
Sheryl <email>
Brea, CA USA Sat 02/25/2006

Rosaries
Perhaps they wanted one that had been blessed by the Pope? These would only be available at the Vatican.
USA Sat 02/25/2006

Re: Rosaries in Rome
RE: Rosaries in Rome, you shouldn't have any problem. I recall specifically a little store to the side of the Fontana di Trevi where I bought a rosewood rosary for my grandmother, and they certainly had many more.
Daniel M. Perez <email>
Miami Beach, FL USA Sat 02/25/2006

To: Car rental in Germany and Austria
Driving in Germany and Austria is similiar to driving in the US. We drove for 2 weeks in Germany and Austria last summer. Drivers were friendly and we did not have any problems. Got lost several times and had to ask directions alot. Everyone was very helpful. Watch out for the tour bus drivers though. There are narrow roads in the Alps and the bus driver always wins. Also Austria requires a sticker to drive in the country. Check the rental car before buying one. We bought one and our car already had one on it. good luck
ns
tx USA Sat 02/25/2006

Munich B & B
Denise,

try towns that are on S-bahn lines on the southern end (the World Cup stadium is to the north) of the Munich metro area. Use www.{town name}.de and see if they have a link for tourism (Tourismus) or accommodations (Unterkünfte).

Starnberg is a resort town on the Starnberger See southwest of Munich, and I found some reasonably priced places that show that they have rooms available in June. Starnberg is 33 minutes by S-Bahn from the Munich Hauptbahnhof. You might actually like the area so much you'll not want to go into Munich.

You indicated offline that you are a family of four. It will be MUCH more difficult in Germany to get a room for four than it will be to get two doubles. You might have more luck finding a four person vacation apartment (Ferienwohnung). It would likely have a separate bedroom, a sofa bed, and a cooking area. FW normlly rent by the week for much less then the cost of a week in a hotel. Of course, you have to make your own breakfast.
<email>
USA Sat 02/25/2006

Finding Rosaries
I am going to Rome this week.Many of my friends have requested I bring them a rosary. Will I find these easily? Or only in the Vatican Gift Shop. Any advice appreciated.
Sharon
Bowie, MD, MD USA Sat 02/25/2006

Beaune, Dijon
We are going to France this summer. We are starting in Paris and then heading to Nice. We were thinking of going to Lyon via Beaune and Dijon since we have a day still free in the intinerary. Are these places worth stopping for a day? Are there lockers in the train stations to put our packs while we explore the towns on our way to Lyon?
Andrew
Canada Sat 02/25/2006

Sweden Rail reservations and Scanpass
I have a Scanrail Pass and I do not understand how to reserve trains in Sweden. We will be traveling in a couple months and we were able to reserve trains for a small fee in Norway with the railway over the phone (we want to book the SJ Oslo-Stockholm train). Sweden does not sell separate reservations for use with Scanpass. I guess one needs to go to the local station before the trip and pick up the ticket with the Scanpass in hand. But during a busy weekend, that seems kind of dicey. Any ideas?
Michael Swanson <email>
Franklin, TN USA Sat 02/25/2006

Münich B & B
Denise---try the Gasthaus Englischer Garten: http://www.hotelenglischergarten.de/ But don't be surprised if they are full. Münich is one of the sites in Germany for World Cup soccer games during June, and many places are already booked up. Good luck----
Enzian
Seattle, USA Sat 02/25/2006

RE: Italy to Spain (2/23)
Will, a lot can change between now and next fall, but currently, if all you want to do is get from Milan to Barcelona, you have two choices. Fly Vueling. Best fare I found was 30 EUR. Add to that 22.43 EUR taxes and fees plus about 15 EUR to and from airports, and the lowest cost is 67 EUR. For the midday flight you'll have to leave Milan around 9 AM; transportation from BCN gets into Barcelona at 14:50. You will use about 6 hours of daytime.

Better yet, there is a direct night train, EN 372, which leave Milan at 19:50 and gets into Barcelona (Franca) at 9:01. If you buy in advance direct from Trenitalia, you can get a Smart Price fare of €100 pP in a double compartment, and you'll save the cost of a hotel room. This train runs only Mo, We, & Fr.

On the other hand, if you want to see the scenery while you get there, the Bahn website shows a daytime connection of 5 trains, Milan (9:13) to Barcelona (22:53). 13 hours, 40 minutes. Calculating that fare is too difficult.
<email>
USA Sat 02/25/2006

Re:Two days outside of Paris???
Hi Carla, why not Dijon? If you like architecture and gastronomy you will surely like it! It is only 1h40 from Paris with TGV (15 TGV a day)

Here are my pictures to give you an idea... http://www.kodakgallery.fr/BrowsePhotos.jsp?&collid=43499444733

have a great trip :-)
corinne <email>
Dijon, France Sat 02/25/2006

Two days outside of Paris???
Im going to Paris in March and, since I have been before, wanted to get outside of the city for a couple of days at the end of the trip. Tried to arrange Amsterdam but trains and flights arent working. Only have two days, was thinking of the Loire Valley or maybe Brussels - or possibly somewhere closer to the city?? Any recommendations would be appreciated!! Thanks!!!
Carla <email>
La Habra, CA USA Fri 02/24/2006

Car Rental in Germany
I recommend using Auto Europe (www.autoeurope.com), a consolidator that finds you the best rate among several rental companies. If you find a better price by contacting a company directly, Auto Europe promises to either match it or beat it. Book your car at home well in advance of your trip to get the best deal. You can either do it online or call the US toll-free number.
Tim
Minot, ND USA Fri 02/24/2006

Flight Search Recommendation
I would highly recommend the web site http://www.mobissimo.com for finding airfares. I have consistently found the lowest airfares available through that site, whereas Expedia and others don't always have the best deals. Mobissimo searches through practically all of the online airfare search sites, and saves a lot of trouble. The only disadvantage that I have found with it is that you cannot search for open jaw tickets through it.
Bryan <email>
Maryland USA Fri 02/24/2006

Airfare
Laura, I find it best to book ahead, you get better deals the earlier you book. Last minute deals are few and far between and you may get stuck with a bad deal. I would recommend flying to a airport thats cheaper such as into London. From London you can get a direct flight into prague for only $40 each way through www.easyjet.com. Bookings on easyjet are best done early as they get more eexpensive the later you book. Flights throughout europe can be very cheap, ryanair.com is also good! Also check out expedia.com, for flights once you find the cheapest one go to that airlines website directly, you can sometimes get any even better deal by booking directly with the airline. Good Luck
Cora <email>
Vancouver, Canada Fri 02/24/2006

Airfare question
We're going on the Prague tour in July and airfares are currently around $1300 from the midwest. Should we hold out or buy now?
Laura <email>
Ankeny, IA USA Fri 02/24/2006

Venice Treviso
Kathy & Al: there posting below which I assume addresses your request for information to Treviso. Unfortunately it does not answer your question and is wrong on one point. The P. Roma is NOT on the mainland. It is near the Railway station and can be reached by Vaporettos #1 (slow) and 82 (fast). Both leave from San Marco, but # 1 stops at just about every stop, # 82 only at a few, but does stop at Rialto. The bus to Treviso leaves from P.Roma and I believe is <10Euros. It takes around an hour. I am not sure how frequest they are but I seem to remembr hearing that they co-ordinate with Ryanair flights.

If I can help more, email me.
Iain <email>
Edmonton, AB Canada Fri 02/24/2006

car rental and driving in Germany and Austria
We just went to the rental place at the airport--it was quite easy. Request to rent an automatic if that is what you want--stick is standard unless you specify otherwise.

German and Austrian drivers seem to drive much more aggresively than we do here, so be careful. Remember that the "passing lane" on the autobahn is used only for that--stay in the far right lane at all times except to pass. The signs for upcoming exits are listed in the opposite order of ours here--the closest exit is listed last on a sign posting several exits. I'm not sure about Germany and Austria, but I know in Switzerland if a person is at a crosswalk in the middle of a street, you must stop and let them cross. Hope I've helped some.
M
USA Fri 02/24/2006

Tube to Portabello Rd Market and more!
To get anywhere in London, go to the Transport For London's website: www.tfl.gov.uk, and click on "journey planner". Then type in your starting and stopping points. For the market, you want to go to the Notting Hill station. It will then give you several journey options. Click on one of those, and it tells you exactly how long each tube ride is, where to switch, what zones you'll cross, and how long it takes to walk! Very handy.
Sue
Philadelphia, PA USA Fri 02/24/2006

For Dianne: hotels in Turkey
In Istanbul, you probably should stay in Sultanahmet--the old section of the city where the Blue Mosque and Aya Sofia are. There are lots of old Ottoman houses converted into lovely small family run hotels. I've stayed at the Apricot Hotel and the Dersaadet. Both with friendly, English speaking owners, lovely breakfasts on the rooftop with views, and comfortable rooms. I've heard good things about the Sari Konak and the Empress Zoe in the same area. If you are going in the high season, I'd book in advance--they have only fifteen or twenty rooms, so they fill fast. All have websites and email.

In Selcuk, we've stayed at the Hotel Bella--right across from St John's Basilica. Fabulous friendly owners will help with touring and itinerary (and will try to sell you a carpet, though they do take "no" for an answer!) You can watch storks feeding their young while you eat your breakfast. The Hotel Halehan and Hotel Nilya are a bit more upscale, but, even though we can afford to pay more, we'll be returning to the Bella when we return to Turkey this summer.
JER
USA Fri 02/24/2006

Hotel Recommendations in Brussels
Does anyone have any hotel recommendations in Brussels? I'll be there early August for three nights. Also any good day trips from Brussels besides Bruges? Thanks
Bill <email>
Danbury, Ct USA Fri 02/24/2006

car rental germany
Advice for best way to rent a car in Germany? Advice for driving in Southern Germany & Northern Austria?
USA Fri 02/24/2006

Transportation from Venice to airport
www.atvo.it/eng/airport.php?ld=index_vat.php&id=0&var=v is the link to the webpage for the bus service from Venice to Marco Pole airport.
USA Fri 02/24/2006

Dinner near Eiffel Tower
Any recommendations for a good, reasonable restaurant for our family of four? One night we would like to take an evening boat cruise to see the lights of Paris and see the Eiffel Tower all lit up. Rick has some recommendations but just wanted to know if anyone else had a good one.
Alexandra Martella <email>
Longmont, CO USA Fri 02/24/2006

Kid-friendly hotels in Munich, Vienna & Austria
Could those of you who have been to these cities with small children recommend (or warn against) any specific hotels? We're going in late April/early May with a 3 year old and an 8 month old and we want to be centrally-located so we can head back for much-needed naps. Any other tips for things to do with kids in these places are welcome! Thank you.
Smith
Switzerland Fri 02/24/2006

Champ de Mars Hotel
We have stayed at the Champ de Mars a number of times. Try to get the room listed as large double. They are nice sized and have a bed about equivalent to our queen. The regular double is about standard for European hotels. We have stayed in a number of Paris hotels and find the CDM to be probably the best for the money. Nice room and bathroom and staff, especially Steffan, very hospitable. The web address listed below is good. I just checked it out. Takes you directly to their site.
Tom
USA Fri 02/24/2006

RE: Teansportation from Venice to Airport
If you take the vaparetto to Piazza Roma, which is on the mainland, the bus will take you to the airport. Vaparetto cost 5 Euro and the bus cost 2 Euro
USA Fri 02/24/2006

The Hotel du Champs de Mars
The place does have small rooms, but it is a comfortable place competitively priced. The owners were nice people and speak English. I haven't stay there in a few years. You have to book early and I sometimes jump on the train as it leaves the station. If the C de M is all booked when you plan to be in Paris, the Hotel Muguet is about the same price, with bigger rooms and a larger than normal bathroom. The breakfast is also larger than usual. The owner there is also pleasant and has English speaking staff. The Eber-Mars is also a good place, larger than normal rooms and a gentleman for an owner. Suggest you try the Hotel du Champs de Mars web site: www.hotel-du-champs-de-mars.com There is also an email address.
USA Fri 02/24/2006

Donna --Rental contract
I've dealt with the two companies you mention. Can you offer a specific about the contract needing deciphering? Also, it is not really a rental contract you get from Auto Europe. That comes when you pick up the car and is with the rental agency so you should expect to sign a contract in Italy. Auto Europe, etc, provide you with a downloadable confirmation that you take with you to the rental agency. Sometimes there are small road use taxes to pay and are due when you return the car. Your confirmation will list this and will also list all money you paid and any that is due. You can pay in advance. It will also list the car you are getting by classification group and the amenities and insurances provided and those which are options you ordered at additional cost. If you read the confirmation order, you will have no surprises. It is organized in an orderly way and is in clear English. The car is one of the "first time jitters" you can put away.
USA Fri 02/24/2006

Spanish Steps Hotel - for Julie
Julie,

Here are two hotels close to the Spanish Steps: http://www.hotelpanda.it (cheap for Rome) http://www.hoteljulia.it (moderate for Rome)

Take a look at the web sites and on Trip Advisor. But do keep in mind that Rome is fairly small, so as long as you have a centrally located hote, you'll be reasonably close to the Spanish Steps.
Traveler
Vancouver, Canada Fri 02/24/2006

Appropriate Dress for Concerts
I'm thinking of buying tickets to a concert at the Festival Hall in Salzburg in June. As we're packing light I want to make sure we will have appropriate clothing with us. Is there anyone out there with experience at this? Will a khaki skirt be good enough, or would I really need to wear something formal? Would my husband need to wear coat and tie?

Thanks for the help!
Jill <email>
HI USA Thu 02/23/2006

Re:Friendly Europeans
Marv, even though most Europeans (most of the world, really) disagree with the policies of our government they do NOT take it out on the American tourist. You will be treated with the same dignity that you give to them. I traveled to Europe for a full month right after the Iraq invasion and then again immediately after the Abu Ghraib prison photos were released. I was very concerned both times before I left, but I shouldn't have been and neither should you. The trips were wonderful and I was treated very well everywhere I went. Europeans are quite worldly and mature and if you do engage them respectfully on politics or world events you will find them highly informed and able to discuss these issues thoughtfully and without rancor. Most of the time this will never come up unless you bring it up. There is so much to see and do and converse about with your new friends--and you will make some if you just put out a little effort. A smile and a kind word will open many doors. Let go of all worries along these lines and get ready for a wonderful time!
Rich
Mount Vernon , WA USA Thu 02/23/2006

Tripadvisor.com website
I use tripadvisor.com to research hotels as well. But always keep in mind that people are 10 times more likely to complain then they are to praise. If you want a good laugh type "hotel carter" into tripadvisor :)
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Thu 02/23/2006

Tripadvisor.com website
For Julie- I love the RS Website but have recently started looking on www.tripadvisor.com for actual reviews of hotels from paying guests. The Pantheon Hotel, for example, was listed with lots of nice comments- sometimes the one you're wondering about isn't, but you can always try. I think it complements the RS site when in the planning stages of a trip and I wish I had known about it sooner!
Karen
USA Thu 02/23/2006

TAKING THE TUBE
I WANT TO GO TO THE PORTOBELLO MARKETS ON SATURDAY MORNING, SPEND THE DAY THERE, AND THEN HEAD TO A RESTAURANT CALLED "RULES" NEAR COVENT GARDENS. CAN I CATCH THE TUBE FOR THE WHOLE DAYS EVENTS, AND IF SO, HOW MANY ZONES DO I NEED PAY FOR? ALSO, CAN I WALK FROM THE BRITISH MUSEUM TO RULES? HOW FAR IS THE WALK? I AM STAYING IN PADDINGTON AND WONDER WHAT SORT OF PASS I SHOULD BE [TRAVEL PASS, OR TUBE PASS] AND WONDERED ABOUT THE BEST WAYS TO SEE THE SIGHTS, STARTING FROM PADDINGTON.
AUNDREA <email>
B.C. CANADA Thu 02/23/2006

Friendly Europeans
From my five-week trip through Europe last year, I found Europeans to be very kind. Positive American sentiment is definitely down, due to President Bush's actions during his terms, but most Europeans I met did not treat me badly because of our government.
USA Thu 02/23/2006

Anne: Nice Hotels
Not quite in your price range but awfully "nice": The Hotel Suisse, http://www.hotels-exclusive.com/hotels/suisse/index_en.htm
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Thu 02/23/2006

Scooter rentals
Has anyone experience with renting motor scooters in Italy? I own a Malaguti 150 and think that would be a wonderful way to tour the country. Even though the Italians build great scooter someone said that the rental places do not maintain them very well.
Bob <email>
Centennial, CO USA Thu 02/23/2006

Transportation from Venice to Venice Treviso Airport
We're looking for the least expensive transportation from Venice (in city) to the Venice Treviso Airport. Has anyone done this before? I believe there is a bus that will take you to that airport, but I don't remember where to pick it up and how to get to that bus terminal.
Kathy & Al
Tucson, Arizona USA Thu 02/23/2006

Friendly Europeans
We travelled through Europe several years ago and found the people to be wonderfully friendly. A friend was telling us that due to political differences, many of the Europeans are less friendly or even a bit surly.

Have any of you found this to be true?
Marv <email>
Milwaukie , OR USA Thu 02/23/2006

Luggage on the London Underground
I'm helping my nephew move to Luton for school. Between us, we will have a total of 4 (62") cases & 2 (45") carry-ons. I understand the after 0930 policy, but is it going to be a problem to schlep this much luggage from Heathrow Airport to Kings Cross, then transfer to the Thameslink to Luton?
jaybee
USA Thu 02/23/2006

For Dianne re: Turkey
Here's a great website! www.turkeytravelplanner.com
jaybee
USA Thu 02/23/2006

Pantheon B&B in Rome?
Has anyone heard of or stayed at the Pantheon B&B in Rome? They have availability for our trip, and it sounds like a perfect location (across from the Pantheon), but I just found it on a website. I'd love to hear some feedback from someone who knows about it. Thanks!!
Julie
Raleigh-Durham, NC USA Thu 02/23/2006

Spain car rental
My husband and I will be flying into Madrid from Barcelona in May, and from there traveling south to the coast and heading over to Portugal where we will fly out of Lisbon back to US. Does anyone know if it is best to pick up a car in Madrid or travel by train south to Granada (area) and pick up a car? We want to delay the car pickup as long as possible so my husband has a break from driving. We have not determined our route yet but plan to hit many of Rick's highlights.
Teri <email>
Newport Beach, CA USA Thu 02/23/2006

Will: Train to Barcelona from Milan.............
That's a long distance by land and over the Alps and Pyrenees mountains. My Euro-train map indicates it would be about 16 hours of travel time plus any connections. There is an overnight train that might work for you though, and would save the cost of a Hotel. Cost unknown.

Conversly, it's a 1 hour 55 minute flight (11:40am - 1:35pm) from MXP to BCN that costs $80 USD on Vueling Airline (Who?).
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Thu 02/23/2006

Recommendations for places to stay in Nice, France.
Can anyone recommend a good place to stay in Nice for one night? Maximum budget is about 90 euros. Thanks!!
Anne
Vancouver, BC Canada Thu 02/23/2006

RE: Palm Pilot
Sue, I notice you said you were using a converter. There are two kinds of converters. One type says it is good for up to 1600W, and simply "chops" the wave form down to 120V. This type is suitable for things like hair dryers or curling irons, but can damage electronic devices.

The second type uses a small transformer. It gets a wave form suitable for electronics, but can only handle up to 50-80 W.

There is also a third "kind", which just incorporates both types with a selector switch.

Best advice is only buy electronics that have power supplies for dual (120-240) voltage. That is safer and avoids the extra weight of a converter.
CO USA Thu 02/23/2006

Orvieto Accommodations
SP - We enjoyed our stay at the Hotel Corso in the historical center of Orvieto, Italy. It was one of Rick's recommendations. You can google it or the e-mail address I used is: hotelcorso@libero.it We took the bus to Civito di Bagnoregio - outstanding!
Sue <email>
AZ USA Thu 02/23/2006

traveling with Rx
Betsy, could you have your pharmacisit give you smaller bottles with the perscription label for just the amount of pills you need to take during the trip? I would think that this would take care of the must have original container regulation but also mean you wouldn't have to carry a three month supply if you were only going for a week or so.
Sharon R. Johnson
Lincoln, Nebraska USA Thu 02/23/2006

Hotel near Spanish Steps
Hotel Regno is also quite nice, and only a short (10 minutes?) walk from the Spanish Steps.
Tom
St. Louis, USA Thu 02/23/2006

Hotel Near Spanish Steps
The Hotel Aberdeen is relatively near Spanish Steps and is recommended by Rick. That is where we will be staying!
Alexandra Martella <email>
Longmont, CO USA Thu 02/23/2006

Car Rental in Italy
For Donna - I don't know what is on the contracts that is confusing so I'll take the risk of stating some things you may already know--just in case you don't. Since Auto Europe is a consolidator, cars rented through them are provided by several different rental companies. For example, my car in Ireland was from Budget and in France it was from Europcar. Auto Europe promises to match or beat any deal you find by going directly to a company yourself. I was extremly well pleased with their service. Nearly every post I've read on this and other boards is a positive one. If you have specific questions on the contracts, I suggest you call AE's toll-free number.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 02/23/2006

Palm Pilot
I took my Palm last year because I have all my genealogy on it and we were going to find ancestoral homes. One of the challenges was charging it. Since we rented a car, I brought along a car charger and didn't have to mess with the charger at the B&B.

Good thing I did, because when I plugged in my battery charger for my digital camera to the convertor and added the adapter plug, I promptly blew my battery charger. Something went haywire and I glad the problem was with my $20 battery charger rather than my $200+ Palm!
Sue
USA Thu 02/23/2006

one more ferry question
Oh and I forgot to ask also what ferry would take us back to pireaus from santorini since I also don't find that ANEK offers this itinerary? And any feedback on the ANEK ferry line? They appear to have a nice fleet of boats. Thanks
katie <email>
Meridian, ID USA Thu 02/23/2006

Ferry boat suggestions
Does anyone know of a ferry line in Greece that goes from Chania to Santorini? I found ANEK for our first leg to Chania, Crete from Pireaus, but not a one for the second leg of our trip. Traveling in October. Thanks
Katie <email>
Meridian, ID USA Thu 02/23/2006

Hotel near Spanish Steps
Julie - We are going to Rome this summer also and we are staying near the Spanish Steps on the famous street Via Veneto at the Hotel Alexandra http://www.hotelalexandraroma.com/en/default.htm I read a bunch of website reviews and this one looked good. Not cheap but not 5 star either. Breakfast is included.
Sally <email>
El Dorado Hills, CA USA Thu 02/23/2006

Hotel du Champ de Mars-Paris
Has anyone stayed at the Hotel du Champ de Mars in Paris lately? We will be there March 12 and I know the rooms are small, but is there any more info anyone can give?
Lisa
Groves, Tx USA Thu 02/23/2006

Prescription medications
I take the exact number of pills I need in one of those little containers with a slot for each day. I remove the labels from the prescription bottles and carry them along. However, in 12 trips to (and from) I've never even been questioned, so I don't know if this technically complies with the law.
USA Thu 02/23/2006

Credit cards in Europe
I have since done some more online research. According the Chip and PIN site, credit cards not upgraded to a chip&PIN card should still work as normal with a signature. It specifically mentions overseas customers whose country has not gone to the chip and PIN system. However, be warned, my colleague did get his card declined b/c it wasn't a chip and PIN card. But, based on the websites info, I'll assume his problems were due to store/bank employees not yet understanding the new system. I'd still be curious to know if anyone else has already run into this problem?
Tara <email>
Gallipolis, OH USA Thu 02/23/2006

Credit cards in Europe
I've heard that starting just a few weeks ago, many European countries have gone to the "chip and PIN". According to one of my work colleagues, your credit card will no longer be accepted (even for a swipe purchase) without both a PIN number (which I have) and your credit card must contain a compatable chip. Does anyone else know anything about this? He speicifically told me the UK was already doing this and he was told while there that other European nations were as well. Any furhter info would be greatly appreciated!
Tara <email>
Gallipolis, OH USA Thu 02/23/2006

Italy to Spain
Wife and I are going to Italy, Spain, and Portugal this fall. Wondering if it would be too long or a waste of travelling time to ride train from Milan to Barcelona in one trip.
Will Person <email>
Austin, TX USA Thu 02/23/2006

ROME HOTELS - SPANISH STEPS
FOR JULIE: Maybe this website will help:

http://www.roma-hotels.com/rome-lodging/Spanish%20steps.htm
Graham <email>
Thu 02/23/2006

Julie w the Spainish Steps question
Since the SS are 100 yards from the Metro, you can stay anywhere, but feel to contact me for some specific ideas.
Bob <email>
Gettysburg, PA USA Thu 02/23/2006

Auto Europe
For Donna- We used AutoEurope and the company was very reliable- easy to contact prior to the trip at their Boston office, and, when we had to change our drop- off point from Siena to Florence they didn't mind. They also at that time (summer 2005) had a free cell- phone rental offer- you might ask about that if you decide to go ahead with this company.
Karen
USA Thu 02/23/2006

Need Hotel recommendation in Rome - Near Spanish Steps
My husband just told me that we're going to Rome this summer and to start planning. I'm so excited I can hardly contain myself! We will be meeting up with friends who are staying near the Spanish Steps, so we'd like to find a hotel close by there. Do any of you Rome experts have recommendations? We don't want to spend too much, but we don't want to go cheap. I bought Rick's Rome book, but he seems to focus on hotels in different areas. I found one near the Piazza d. Quirinale, but is that too far to walk frequently to the Steps? Thanks for your help!!
Julie
Raleigh-Durham, NC USA Thu 02/23/2006

Rxs not in original bottle
Betsy-though I've heard on this board the problems you might face with prescriptions taken out of the bottle, I have never had this problem myself. I always take the few Rx's and OTC meds out of their original bottle and put into a small plastic bag. Of course, I only take the # of pills I require for the trip so by the time I get back to the US I don't have anything but OTC left anyway.
USA Thu 02/23/2006

Renting Cars in Italy
Renting cars in Italy. I have two quotes, one from Europe by Car and one from Auto Europe. Any hints in deciphering the contracts is greatly appreciated. This is my first trip to Europe and I don't want my rental car to be a problem
Donna <email>
Kennewick, WA USA Wed 02/22/2006

traveling with Rx
Traveling with RXs into Europe usually isn't a big deal. You have to be careful on your return back to the USA. IF US Customs singles you out and does a hand check of your luggage and you don't have the original bottles with the label, they are gonna give you a hard time. It has happened to me at Newark Airport. Having the original containers is required by law, so it is best to comply.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Wed 02/22/2006

Horseback riding in Ireland and/or Northern Ireland
I'm an experienced rider and would love to trail ride (no more than 1/2 a day) while in Ireland/N.Ireland. We'll be staying in Armagh and Dublin in mid-April. Any suggestions of a safe, reputable place with good horses and nice trails in the vicinity of either of those cities?
Marti <email>
South Windsor, CT USA Wed 02/22/2006

traveling with Rx
I take a number of Rx and each comes in a very large bottle (a three month supply). In the interest of traveling light, I want to take them out of the original containers, but the current advise is not to do so. Has anyone had experience taking drugs (not narcotics) to and from the UK without the original containers?
Betsy <email>
USA Wed 02/22/2006

Althorp
Sue from Az., You need to purchase your tickets to Althorp in advance. Here are two numbers 011-44-870-167-9000 and/or 11-44-1804-770107. They are not sold at the gate. You can get a train from Euston Station in London to Northampton then you will get a coach to Althorp. There are two trains in the morning 8:45 and 9:40 then the next one is 12:45. Have fun.
USA Wed 02/22/2006

Ash Wednesday in Rome?
I am traveling to Italy next week and I only today realized we will be in Rome on Ash Wednesday. I've been trying to figure out if museums, shops, etc., will be closed. The Vatican museum is open, but I'm guessing everything at the Vatican will be a zoo that day. Does anyone know what I can expect in Rome on such a big religious holiday?
Amanda
Kansas USA Wed 02/22/2006

How long to spend in St. Gallen, Appenzell, Stein am Rhein area?
I'm planning on visiting the Appenzell, St. Gallen, Stein am Rhein area in Switzerland. I can spend as little as one day and as much as 3-4 days there. How long do you recommend I stay there? Would if be feasible to base myself there and take a day trip to Luzern? Thanks for your help.
Gary <email>
Cary, NC USA Wed 02/22/2006

Planning yourself: Germany
Ada---May is a good time to go to Germany---the weather is generally nice, things are blooming, and the countryside is lovely. You CAN plan this trip yourself---it is fun and very rewarding. Use Rick and a couple of other guidebooks to decide where you want to go and what to see. Don't try to do everything; keep it a compact trip. Then use the internet to research further on places to stay, or ask here for recommendations. Most places take reservations by e-mail, or certainly by fax. Train travel is very easy and gets you anywhere you want to go with no parking or route-finding hassles. The schedules are all available on the internet. "On2Europe" below greaciously invited you to write for help, and is very knowledgeable.

One warning: I planned my first trip myself (to Germany and Italy) seven years ago, and it was so much fun I can't stop---I've been back every year since and am now planning two years ahead.
Enzian
Seattle, USA Wed 02/22/2006

accommodations in Turkey
I'm looking for small hotel or B&B accommodations,3 star or better, in Istanbul and Selcuk. Any suggestions?
dianne <email>
Canada Wed 02/22/2006

self-guided bike/hike tours
Has anyone had any experience with a self-guided bike/hike tour company called Discover France? We are looking for moderately priced bike/hike tours in France. Thanks.
A
Columbus, OH USA Wed 02/22/2006

Apartment in Amsterdam
Has anyone had any experience with www.lovingamsterdam.com as a site to search apartments for rent in Amsterdam? If so, are they any good? and in which did you stay?
Katie <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Wed 02/22/2006

World Cup 2006
First matches are June 9. Finals are July 9.
USA Wed 02/22/2006

Barge rental
Patty, We found ours on a Google search about 3 years ago. The individual sites had everything spelled out and web contacts for you.
Martha
Cape Ana, USA Wed 02/22/2006

Re: Ada
Ada -- you should be fine in May. Germany is a wonderful country with lots to see that isnt covered in Rick's book. You could spend quite a lot of time just in Munich and Bavaria alone (a good place to start if youre coming out of Italy by train.) However, understand that with the World Cup going on this summer, June is going to be hectic. Hope this helps, and have a fabulous time!
Tom
St. Louis, USA Wed 02/22/2006

A French wedding
This can be daunting because the fine points of French social correctness vary with social level. La bonne societie of Paris is more likely to center on detail. Those in the "hexagon" may be tied to protocols. But, like ours, French social practices vary by region, age, religion, etc. For example, you could know a Parisien family for years and never be invited to dinner in the home. In rural Provence, you could be invited to a neighbor's home for several hours of wine tasting and conversation. Contact via email if you wish to go into detail.
D. Ikkey <email>
USA Wed 02/22/2006

Canal boat/barge rental
Has anyone done a canal boat rental with kids? It seems like a good option, as they can spread out while you're moving and then you can stop when you feel like it and go ashore. Since you can sleep on board - and eat some meals as well it seems like it is cost effective but I'm worried about hidden costs.. especially fuel... any input?
Patty
USA Wed 02/22/2006

stay in munich
My family and i will be in Munich and are looking for a b&b....any suggestions? We will be on eurorail. thank, denise
iowa USA Wed 02/22/2006

To Ada....i do know that the world cup is going on in germany and it starts sometime in june...denise
denise
iowa USA Wed 02/22/2006

European trip planners
Ada,

Rick’s guidebook is a good start, but there is a lot more to see in Germany than just what is in his book. Do some research in other guidebooks, on the internet.

Figure out what you want to see. Prioritize it.

Learn how to use the bahn website, reiseauskunft.bahn.de/bin/query.exe/en, to get schedules and fares. Learn about the rail specials; you probably won’t need a rail pass.

I've spent ten weeks in Germany in the past five years. Write to me.
<email>
USA Wed 02/22/2006

First Time European Trip Planners
My husband & I traveled to Italy for our honeymoon. We booked our trip through a travel agent & once there, realized we paid for not much information other than knowing flight times, hotel reservations & train tickets to get from one city to another. We would like to visit Germany...hopefully in May of this year (thoughts on visiting this time of year?)...and would like to book this trip all on our own, but are nervous. We have the Rick Steves' guide...any suggestions for doing this ourselves???
Ada
AL USA Wed 02/22/2006

Bellagio/ Menaggio
My husband and I stayed in Menaggio at a small hotel called Albergo Vapore. It was not a luxury hotel by any means, but it had a lot of character, a small balcony with views of the lake, a restaurant, and friendly staff. It was only around 60 Euros per night. We opted to stay out of Bellagio because the prices are more expensive there. If you're looking for a more upscale place, there are those as well with the price tag to match. Either way you go, Lake Como is beautiful and you will end up hopping from town to town anyway on the ferry.
Holly
Chicago, USA Wed 02/22/2006

Back support for Janie
Janie--if you have had medical treatment, consult your doctor or perhaps a physical therapist you have worked with while recuperating. You do not want to choose something yourself which may not be correct and could cause you more harm than good.
a nurse
MD USA Wed 02/22/2006

Madrid!
Heylo from Madrid!

I am a student on a budget and I need some advice on food, drink and music. Do you peeps know where there are some inexpensive tapas and some live music, not necessary together. All help will earn 10 karma points instantly!!!!

kArA
Kara
sd, ca USA Wed 02/22/2006

Bellagio/Menaggio
Any opinions on the better place to stay. Bellagio or Menaggio? Does anyone have any accommodation suggestions. Your help is appreciated.
Helen and Bill
USA Wed 02/22/2006

France
Jan, I suggest you check out Journeywoman.com It is a special travel site for women travellers and has lots of info on Paris from women.
Jenelle
BC Canada Tue 02/21/2006

French Manners
I don't know the answer to your questions, but I have a suggestion. Ask the bride. If she doesn't know, ask her to discretely ask her fiance.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 02/21/2006

Back support
Maybe one of those supports that workers who do heavy or repetitive lifting wear. I don't mean a leather belt worn by weight lifters, but something like those worn in nursing homes by people who have to lift the elderly or disabled into wheel chairs. I bet you could find a supplier through a google search under <> or <> or some similar search words. Or a back specialist might help. If podiatrists can make supports for our feet that fit comfortably in our shoes, maybe a chiropracter can do the same for a person's back.
USA Tue 02/21/2006

Help please with my French manners
I am at a loss as to what to do. I dearly hope someone who knows of such things can offer some advice. My now invalided brother and I raised another brother's two daughters. They were orphaned while very young. Now, eldest is to marry a wonderful young Frenchman whom she met while she studied at Avignon. It is to be a church and a civil ceremony according to tradition. My question is, who gives our darling young woman away? My invalided brother is the only family male and he cannot attend because of his poor health. We wondered about suggesting he join us via video phone. Do the French do such things, or, might a male of the groom's familly be a proxy? And I, is it proper for me to remain as his family's guest for a week or two after the ceremonies. They've suggested a month or two, but of course I have no way of knowing if it is proper of me to accept such an offer of hospitality, or treat it as a gesture that I am expected to decline. They've already assumed all of the related expenses that attach to the bride.
Melba v.Fremd
Minn USA Tue 02/21/2006

Back support & Travel
Having recovered from a back injury this past year, I'm ready to begin short trips and eventually longer jaunts- with extended flying. Does anyone have a recommendation on a brand/type of support for the lower and middle back? Something that is portable which I can carry on a plane without too much hassle or bulkiness. Appreciate your feedback.
Janie
Los Angeles, CA USA Tue 02/21/2006

BARCELONA APARTMENTS
These are a few websites where you can find apartments for rent in Barcelona.

www.apartime.com

www.chicandbasic.com

http://www.gobcn.com/CORSEGA/Corsega_ap.html

http://www.cocoonbarcelona.com/Apartment_Barcelona_select_01-en.htm
Claudia <email>
Peru Tue 02/21/2006

Bananas in Italy
Dot, yes, I saw them everywhere while I was there last fall, no worries!
USA Tue 02/21/2006

Como to Zürich
Diane---I assume by "best" route back to Zürich you don't mean the shortest. That would be the direct train from Como, which takes you to Zürich in 3 hours and 45 minutes, via Arth-Goldau. There may be places along that route where you could debark and spend some time. But if you have four days, I suggest you take the very scenic Centovalli ("hundred valleys") train from Locarno to Domodosola. It's a narrow-guage railway that crosses 83 bridges in 55 km. It won't show on the regular train schedules--go to Centovalli.ch to find information and schedules. From Domodosola, catch the main north-south train coming up from Milan to Brig in Switzerland. At Brig, you could easily make a sidetrip to Zermatt to see the Matterhorn. Or, for a quieter place, take the train 20 minutes east to Betten, ride a gondola up to the car-free village of Bettmeralp, and gaze on some of the most incredible scenery anywhere. There are many places to stay there; we like the Hotel Panorama. Or, you could stay on the train from Brig through the Lötschberg tunnel to the town of Kandersteg, well situated in a valley with broad views and mountains all around. Above the town is a beautiful lake you can reach either on foot or by chairlift. The hotel there serves teriffic meals and you can overnight there. Or, for more of a city experience, overnight in either Spiez or Thun, both lakeside towns; you can travel between them or over to Interlaken by lake steamer, and there is a castle at Oberhofen. It's a short trip back to Zürich from these places. Have fun.
Enzian
Seattle, USA Tue 02/21/2006

Germany in late fall
Karen, we go to Germany about once a year so I watch the prices on a regular basis but I usually go in the very northern part of Germany so the south may be a little different due to Oktoberfest. The prices begin to fall in October and will continue thru November so I'd advise looking towards that time. The weather can still be livable but you should dress accordingly. One option is to look at going into Berlin or Hamburg then taking a train to other destinations. The flight would be cheaper that way. If you can hold off until our Thanksgiving, they will begin to celebrate Christmas and its much different than ours. Christmas fairs usually are usually in small towns and they have a wide variety of crafts, foods, and drinks geared specifically towards the season.
LC
Tn USA Tue 02/21/2006

Weather
Tom, try these: www.weather.com, or accuweather.com These should help.
Norma
CO USA Tue 02/21/2006

weather
My family is leaving for a 3 week trip to Europe in late June. We'll arrive in London June 16 2006 for a week, go to Lausanne Switzerland for a week, then Paris for the final week returning in early July. I need help/advise on the temperature and weather to expect and clothing to take along. Thanks
Tom Rawlinson <email>
Cordova, TN USA Tue 02/21/2006

Travel to Germany
My husband and I had originally planned on flying to Munich in May but have since decided to delay it until the fall, airfare costs and we want to save more money. Can anyone tell me what a good time in September, October & November would be to go? We don't want to spend time at Oktoberfest, planned to travel into Austria and Switzerland before probably coming back to Munich to spend a few days before leaving. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Tue 02/21/2006

Sleeping in Convents
The Church of Santa Susanna, home of the American Catholic Church in Rome, provides informations on sleeping in convents in Rome and other Italian cities. Visit www.santasusanna.org/comingToRome/convents.html.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 02/21/2006

picking grapes in Italy
The information the poster requested is at several places on the internet one of which sets a date of October 1-6 in Tuscany. If you do not know how to find the information, type in any search engine at the top of your provider home or opening page. Google is a good engine and will provide several links--mostly travel tours--if you feed it something simple such as "picking grapes in Italy." The trick to finding anything on the net is being able to concisely state your search. Good luck.
USA Tue 02/21/2006

convents or religious orders
We're going to be in Rome and Venice in September. Anyone have information on good convents to stay in? We've heard they are clean and reasonable in price. Is language a problem?
Chic and Nancy <email>
Cadillac, MI USA Mon 02/20/2006

Italy & Switzerland
My husband and I are spending 3 nights in Gimmelwald, Switzerland and then need to head to Lake Como to meet up with some friends. After this we have 4 days to make it to Zurich for the trip home. Any suggestions on the "best" route to take by train... including best towns to visit and spend a day.
Diane <email>
Pasadena, CA USA Mon 02/20/2006

Alternative to Lascaux?
Another alternative to Lascaux would be a visit to the prehistoric cave of Pech Merle. We found it in Rick's book. After visiting St. Cirq Lapopie, a small medieval village which sits above the Lot River, we drove to the Grotte de Pech-Merle near Cabrerets. It was very impressive, with some cave paintings from 14,000 to 25,000 years old. There were beautiful paintings of horses and mammoths. We called for reservations while at the Auberge du Sombral in St. Cirq Lapopie. After that, we visited the Dordogne region.
Sue <email>
AZ USA Mon 02/20/2006

Bike is Europe
Dear Joan and Tommmy, we have rented motorcycles 3 times from Moto Center Thun. Thun Switzerland. Not Harleys, BMW. I have seen Harleys for rent in Zurich, but I would not drive anywhere near a big city so Zurich is out. Driving a bike in the Alps is a wonderful experience! or should I say wonderbar? Not cheap but fun. The best weather for the Alps is end of August, begining of Sept. Think GPS. I have some great routes if you want them.
Joanne <email>
El Dorado Hills, CA USA Mon 02/20/2006

For Lisa and the grapes!
Have you considered staying at an agriturismo in Tuscany? As working farms catering to paying guests this might be an option to satisfy your desire to participate in the harvest.
USA Mon 02/20/2006

specific food
Will I be able to find bananas easily in Italy? Required for my diet.
dot
arcata, ca USA Mon 02/20/2006

Palm Pilot - one more thing!
We are going to bring along an ipod video for storing pics. It seems like the most compact way to store thousands of pictures. A 60 gig will also hold several movies. I'm not sure how easy it would be to download pics onto a palm, but I know its possible. Just haven't tried it. Good Luck!
USA Mon 02/20/2006

Palm Pilot
I recently bought a palm pilot for our 5 week trip this summer! I plan on using it to store essential information, but the biggest reason I got it is for my 11 year old to use it for reading Ebooks. He's an avid reader, and I don't want to carry a bunch of books with me. Frommers offers a lot of their books in ebook format. I wish Rick would go that route also!

As far as internet access - we'll probably just find internet cafes along the way.
Jill
USA Mon 02/20/2006

Alt to staying in Munich
Although Augsburg might be a little far out timewise (45 minutes to downtown Munich), if prices in Munich are high because of an event, and you can get a good price outside, I don't think "side tripping" is a bad value. For two people, a Bayern ticket costs 25 EUR and includes your trip in and out as well as all the means of transport within Munich. In comparison, a partner day ticket in the just the inner zone is 8 EUR.

Whats more, the S-Bahn lines go far out into the country, and a day ticket for the entire MVV is 16 EUR.

I regularly stay in the eastern suburbs at a hotel nicer than a similarly priced one downtown. The trip into Marienplatz takes 25 minutes. Many "in town" accommodations that are not on an S-Bahn or U-Bahn line take 15 minutes. A partner day ticket costs me 2,50 EUR more than an inner zone one.
USA Mon 02/20/2006

Lascaux caves
Lascaux caves are fascinating, not at all tacky. Would never have known that they are not original. Spent a week in the Dordogne region in 1999. Loved it. Very relaxing. Best part was canoeing the river with the castles of the Hundred Year War perched on the cliffs/hills above you. Would recommend renting a car in southern France. While train service is excellent, you really need to get out in a car to get a feel for the countryside and to explore all the wonderful little towns and villages.
Conny
Williamsburg, Va USA Mon 02/20/2006

Palm Pilot dummy here
Okay, I am the first to admit I'm techno-challenged, but I'm thinking that traveling with a Palm or Palm-type organizer might be helpful. I'm primarily thinking of the voice recorder, Wi-Fi, email, and word-processing functions. There's an HP model out there that even comes with a keyboard so I can journal every night. Plus reduce my paper load, and bring ebooks (I am a speed reader and usually blow through a book a week minimum). And I can apparently download my photos for storage too. Has anyone got any ideas about this?
Lori <email>
Palo Alto, Ca USA Mon 02/20/2006

Airline's responsibility
It depends on how you made the reservation. If you did it directly with the airline then call them and demand different flights. If you made the reservation with a thrid party(travel agaent or a site like expedia), then they will have to straighten it out.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 02/20/2006

Peloponesian Road Route
My wife and I are planning to spend a night near ancient Olympia in Greece. We have hotel reservations the next night in Nauplion. Anyone have a recommended route for our rental car?
Mike Underwood <email>
Tallahassee, FL USA Mon 02/20/2006

Lascaux?
Hello- I am beginning to plan my dream trip to the south of France, fully "armed" with Rick's books, of course :) Lascaux captured my imagination as a child, but the more I investigate the more I'm not sure seeing a re- creation won't be depressing. Does anyone have suggestions for an alternative "in situ" site? Or, been to Lascaux recently and can convince me it's not "tacky"! Also, it's looking like a car is a real necesssity- is that the case for the central and south areas of France as much as Tuscany? It does seem better served by trains. Thank you!
USA Mon 02/20/2006

Airline's responsibility
We made reservations 9 mo. ago for a trip to Italy. We have just found out they changed the time of our flight from Italy with a connection in Paris which then allows us only 10 min. to transfer planes and check in. That is the last flight of the day to Phila. Just wanted to check for any input before calling airline. Thanks for any help.
USA Mon 02/20/2006

Stefanie/baths
It can mean each of the variations you give. Usually, Rick's recommendations are 2 or 3 star which means rooms will have ensuite washrooms. Hostels will not and one star or no stars, commonly called tourist hotels, may have a toilet and basin in the room and a community shower down the hall or on another floor even. You better hope it is not next to your room unless you are a heavy sleeper. Hotels such as Formule 1 have a communal shower/commode room with nothing in individual rooms. They are pretty well maintained but spartan.
USA Sun 02/19/2006

Alternative to Staying in Munich
Has anyone stayed in Augsberg as a home base to visit Munich? There must be a convetion in Munich in mid-May because all of the prices we've been quoted have been sky-high. Just looking for an alternative though I know that Steve says that side-tripping in is a "bad value." Any input would be appreciated.
Meredith <email>
Austin, TX USA Sun 02/19/2006

Bathrooms in hotels
When booking a room with no private bath from Rick Steves' books, is there usually a full bathroom (shower, toilet) in the hallway? Or does no private bath mean that there is only a toilet for use in the hallway and no shower?
Stefanie <email>
London, Ontario Canada Sun 02/19/2006

Barcelona Apartment
Does anyone know of a reasonably priced , nice apartment for two in the center of Barcelona? We will be going for a week in June.
Dennis Milligin <email>
Camino, CA USA Sun 02/19/2006

Paris apartment for Jan
Vacation in Paris (www.VacationInParis.com) has both a studio and a one-bedroom apartment in the 7th, just a block from Rue Cler (they are in the same building, the studio on the ground floor with a patio, and the 1-bdr. upstairs.) We felt it was a very safe street and neighborhood. They have many other apartments in the other arrondisements as well.
Enzian
Seattle, USA Sun 02/19/2006

Grape Harvest
We will be traveling in Tuscany during the fall grape harvest. Does anyone know of a vineyard that allows "Day Laborers"?
Lisa
Lubbock, TX USA Sun 02/19/2006

How long in Rothenberg?
I am going to be visiting Rothenburg in July, and then drive the romantic road to Fussen area. How many nights should I spend in Rothenburg? I definitely want to see Nuremberg. Are there any other places within easy driving distance? Rick does not recommend Heidelberg. What do you think? Thanks for your help.
Gary <email>
Cary, NC USA Sun 02/19/2006

PALERMO TO ROME
This one is remarkably inexpensive: http://w2.volawindjet.it/
USA Sun 02/19/2006

Malta/Gozo
I am planning a trip to Malta in late September. Feedback from anyone who has been there would be helpful. I am thinking of staying in Valletta but am wondering about access to a good swimming beach as transportation sounds cumbersome. I would also appreciate tips on accommodations. I will be traveling solo and would like a little activity but hate big commercial resorts. Thanks in advance for your help.
Jana Pagaran <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sun 02/19/2006

PALERMO TO ROME
FOR KATHY: Try AirOne, see...http://www.flyairone.it/en/
Graham <email>
Sun 02/19/2006

Cheap Airfare from Palermo to Rome
I'm looking for an airline that flys from Palermo to Rome that is less expensive than Alitalia. I've used Volare before, but it looks like they no longer fly to Rome. Anyone that knows of another airline?
Kathy
CA USA Sun 02/19/2006

Frau Liebler - Rothenburg
Has anyone stayed at Frau Liebler's in Rothenburg? Any feedback would be appreciated.
Meredith McCall <email>
Austin, TX USA Sun 02/19/2006

Older single travellers
I am planning a trip to Paris for about 4 weeks in late May and all of June. I am a 59 yo woman in good shape and will be traveling alone. I am looking for input on good agencies for booking a studio or 1 bedroom apartment in the 7th, 6th, or 5th arrondisements. Even though I have been to Paris on two other occasions, I need information on the safest streets for a single woman to stay in the above named areas.

Thanks a lot, Jan
Jan Disney <email>
Lake Charles, LA USA Sun 02/19/2006

Accomodations near Frankfurt
Karlene, I would suggest staying in Rudesheim. It is on the Rhine 30-45 minutes from the Frankfurt airport, and a nice little town with excellent Rick Steves-type hotels and restaurants. Rick doesn't recommend it because it is too touristy for him, but my wife and I have been there twice before flying out of Frankfurt and really enjoyed it. It is a lot of fun, and the bulk of the tourists are German. Both visits we stayed at the Ring Hotel Central, which is a good value, quite comfortable, and has an excellent restaurant. I highly recommend it.
Ron <email>
DeWitt, MI USA Sun 02/19/2006

Parma/ Modena area
We are traveling to the Parma/ Modena area on our way to Umbria and looking for some input on sights in the area. Has anyone taken this trip and have ideas?
Beth
Athens, GA USA Sun 02/19/2006

Venice Accommodations
Has anyone ever stayed at Alloggi La Gondola in Venice? It's by the train station and the price is very reasonable.
Richard
Canada, Sun 02/19/2006

Re:Train Travel in Europe
With the Trenitalia Pass Saver you have "Unlimited travel on the national rail network of Italy, Sicily and Sardinia." "Youth = under 26. Kids 4-11: half adult or saver fare, under 4: free."
Sally
El Dorado Hills, CA USA Sat 02/18/2006

Train travel in Italy
Please help. My wife and two children, ages 4 and 6, are traveling to Italy this summer and are planning on buying a super saver trenitalia pass. After looking at the trenitalia website I am a little concerned that they may not accept the supersaver pass since they don't mention it at all. Has anyone had any experience with this? Also, can the 4 year old travel for free with both parents present and using a supersaver pass?
Michael
Tulsa, Ok USA Sat 02/18/2006

Motorcoach in Ireland
Hello! My husband and I planning to go to Ireland later this year and are looking for a motorcoach tour suggestion. We've never been to Europe and for various reasons the structure of an organized tour appeals to us. We're really looking for a tour that includes Birr Castle/Telescope. We're flexible about other sights, do not drink-so we don't need a a pub type tour, and would like to spend 6 to 9 days. We're in our mid 30's, so we're happy to travel with a diversity of other people, but we don't want a tour group that caters to seniors. Any suggestions and pointers are welcome.
HLC
NJ USA Sat 02/18/2006

Switzerland for the Aussie
There are 2 main routes to Como from Heidelberg. One goes via Karlsruhe and Basel, the other via Stuttgart and Zurich. If you take the Basel route, you could stay in Lucerne, rather than Basel---it's a town on a lovely lake. Others here could recommend a hotel for you. You should be able to see the mountains on the route between Lucerne and Como (if it's not cloudy). If you wish to detour a short distance off the route and actually stay in more of a mountain village, Engelberg is a short distance from Lucerne.
USA Sat 02/18/2006