Graffiti Wall: Travelers' Helpline

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Travelers' Helpline: April 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.

Travel hair dryer
Haley, I got my dual voltage hair dryer at Walmart. It was not expensive at all and I got a small one to save space. Just be sure it says 110 volt and 220 volt on the package. You will not need a converter with one of these.
USA Sun 04/30/2006

Travel Hair Dryer
They have the travel hair dryers at this site with the converters. You will still need the country's plug adapter. http://www.packinglight.net And I found the dual voltage hair straightener at http://www.americanprohaircare.com/dual_voltage.htm
Sally <email>
USA Sun 04/30/2006

Travel Hair Dryer and Hair Straightener
Does anyone know where I can find a travel blow dryer and hair straightener that can be used in Eropean outlets without a converter?
Haley
Ga USA Sun 04/30/2006

Train Reservations
If you know the exact date you wish to travel, book your ticket ASAP at sncf.com. You may be able to get a PREM'S (discount)) ticket, if any are still available.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 04/30/2006

Train Reservation
How long in advance would you make a reservation for the train, leaving Paris to Southern France? I have heard various times. We will be traveling in June.
Nancy
New Mexico USA Sun 04/30/2006

Re: Trains from Grace
Look at the "Railpasses" tab on this RS site. It does a great job of covering your rail pass choices, including country maps for each railpass option. It will also help direct you to the best web sites for more info.
Kirkland, USA Sun 04/30/2006

Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn will sell tickets online for international routes that either start or end in Germany, but not for routes wholly within another country (or countries).
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 04/30/2006

Trains
I know this question has been probably been asked in some form before, but I would appreciate any/all help anyone can give me. I am planning my first trip in September and all the different information I am hearing about trains are overwelming. I am traveling with my boyfriend and we are going to Rome-Florence-Venice-Paris(hopefully night train)-Colmar-Butzbach(near Frankfurt)and-Berlin. My questions are, I was planning to buy a Eurail or Select Pass (not sure yet) and not sure if this covers all of the countries we will visit (from what I've read it does but I always see different train lines on bahn and the Italian train website so I didn't know if it is for certain "lines") also, how would I go about reserving seats for the trains? Could I do it all on one site or do I have to go to different website depending on the city? Additionaly, I have gone to the bahn website and sometimes the schedule doesn't come up for other countries. Is there a website that will list ALL of the schudules so I can do it in one stop? Sorry for so many questions but this is the one area that I am unsure about and everyone here seems so knowledgable! Thanks
Grace <email>
Roseville, CA USA Sun 04/30/2006

Ambleside, England B&B's
I'm looking at staying at one of the following B&B's in Ambleside, England. Has anyone been to any? CambridgeVillas3; Amboseli Lodge;Fern Cottage; Kent House; Norwood House.
Sue Nelson <email>
Lake Forest, IL USA Sun 04/30/2006

Paris-Madrid-Lisbon-Madrid-Barcelona
To see the kinds of sleeping accomodations available, go to www.sncf.com for Paris-Madrid and to www.renfe.es for the other routes.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 04/30/2006

Paris>Madrid>Lisbon>Madrid>Barcelona
I want to take the night train from Paris to Madrid, Madrid to Lisbon, from Lisbon to Madrid, and from Madrid to Barcelona. Deutschbahn says these trains are Hotel trains, but do not need reservations. That seems a bit odd. DB does not specify whether or not these trains have couchettes available. Has anyone traveled on these HOT trains? Are seats, sleeperettes, or couchettes available?
e.e.
USA Sun 04/30/2006

Italy Strike
From what I understand - most strikes are schedule well ahead of time and travelers can avoid them with a little advanced planning but keep in mind that often they cancel the strike at the last minute.

The website that we used the last time we went to Italy is http://www.seekitaly.com (they are on vacation until May 1 so I expect they will have an update with May strikes sometime tomorrow).

There is also a page on http://www.whatsoninrome.com/more-strikes.php that explains how to read the offical Commissione di Garanzia site.
Connie
USA Sun 04/30/2006

Italy train strike on May 6?
I saw this: http://slowtalk.com/groupee/forums/a/tpc/f/862600685/m/2291005731 The linked site http://www.commissionegaranziasciopero.it/ is only in Italian, so I'm not sure what it said. Anyone know more about this?
Fiona
NYC, Sun 04/30/2006

Family in Bacharach/St. Goar
Our family stayed at the Hotel Kranenturn. One of the worst nights of our traveling lives as we did not have wax earplugs or headphones loudly playng Metallica all night long to drown out the train noise. Every 15/20 minutes a train roars by with a 15 second high pitched, window rattling screech, then dead silence while you lay awake waiting for the next one. If you want to practice for the Kranenturn get a pillow and blanket and spend a night on the runway of the nearest all night international airport. Unbelievable!!! Have dinner there but SLEEP somewhere else.
Brian <email>
Pompano Beach, FL USA Sun 04/30/2006

Linnea: Rudesheim
Linnea, I recommend going to Rudesheim for the purpose of riding on the chair lift uphill to the Neiderwald Monument.At the top of that hill you get one of the best views of the Rhine River, and you can walk a short distance to look at the Ehrenfels castle (ruins). I think Rudesheim (or vicinity) could be a satisfactory location for your base, if you find overnight accomodation there that you like. From Rudesheim, tourists can ride on train to Braubach to visit the castle Marksburg (a high priority). Another day, tourists could ride on ferry from Rudesheim across Rhine River to Bingen, for boat ride on Rhine River to Bacharach or St. Goar (and return to Bingen on train).
Ken
Missouri USA Sun 04/30/2006

Rudesheim
We don't understand why Rick Steves doesn't like Rudesheim. It is a port on the Rhine and a tourist town, but filled with mostly German -- rather than American -- tourists. It has a really nice core area with small RS-like hotels and restaurants, and a fun-filled area known as Drosselgasse, where there are numerous outdoor cafes, beer gardens and shops. There is German music everywhere in this area on a summer night. We have been in Rudesheim twice and will go again on our next trip to Germany.
Ron <email>
DeWitt, MI USA Sun 04/30/2006

Rudesheim and Bad Homburg? Are they interesting?
Does anyone know anything about an town called Rudesheim? It gets a passing mention in Rick's book as not being worth while. (Part of a list he calls "too big, too famous", along with Mainz and Weisbaden) We are flying in to Frankfort. We will be traveling with an elderly person (an extended family group of 7-8 people) and she may not be able to handle much in terms of long train or car rides. We need someplace relatively close to Frankfort to use as a place to stay, and parts of our group will make day trips from there, probably by train. A relative had suggested this place or Bad Homburg as good interesting places to stay. Bad Homburg is not in Rick's books and not much info on either is on the "Come to Germany" website. We're interested in villages, castles, historical old towns, scenery: NOT interested in shopping, nightlife, fancy restaurants.
Linnea
NW suburbs of Chicago, Illinois USA Sun 04/30/2006

Deutsche Bahn
I could be wrong, but I came across this when use the website to search for tickets and think it indicates that you cannot buy those tickets via Deutsche Bahn's website. My guess is that non-EU or non-German residents can only purchase those tickets via a third-party seller, not directly from the German train company.

Kate
Kate
Scotland Sun 04/30/2006

Deutsche Bahn
While searching for train time tables at the Deutsche Bahn web site, each time I check "details" on a route I see " fares not available" . This is in the lower right hand side of the screen. Does this mean that the train is all booked up ? Thanks
Dean Jackson <email>
Alton, Va USA Sun 04/30/2006

RE: Family in Bacharach/St. Goar
I have also heard complaints by people who stayed in Kranenturm about the train noise. Looking at the pasenger schedule from Koblenz to Bingen, there does not appear to be a lot of train trafic on that line during the night. However, there are also a lot of freight trains on that line, but they don't stop in Bacharach so you don't have the screetching of brakes or the heavy rumble of accelleration (I believe trains on that line are diesel). If I were staying in Bacharach, I would look at Malerwinkel (www.im-malerwinkel.de). It is reasonably priced, very picturesque, back a ways from the train tracks.
<email>
USA Sat 04/29/2006

Family in Bacharach/St. Goar
We are a family of 8 finalizing our itinerary to include 2 nights in the middle Rhine. We've been recommended the Hotel Kranenturm (although comments about the train noise are concerning), Hotel zur Post, and Pension Winzerhaus in Bacharach. We have not seen comments on the last two. And Hotel Hauser in St. Goar, which seems to get good reviews here. However, would be interested in any other suggestions or experience with any of these for groups of our size.
Walt Tracy <email>
Naperville, IL USA Sat 04/29/2006

Judith in El Rancho Santa Fe
I once spent a lot of time looking for an answer to the question you pose. I started with our Department of State and became a ping pong ball trying to even find out who in France would have jurisdiction of such a matter. Whatever you do you need a permit, license, or exception to standing statues, or absolution from some unnamed party in an undisclosed bureau in a department of government that may exist or no longer exists. Even the Russians under the Soviet system pale to the French. The French bureaucrat has no peer. If you are planning to spread the ashes in question from an airplane high above some Paris landmark, forget it because you have an airspace intrusion problem. For anything else, such as wafting the ashes onto the Seine from the Pont Neuf, or sprinkling them at the base of an ancient olive tree Roussillion, why ask? Be discreet. PS Mine are going to the olive tree near Roussillion. I have a note (really) from the owner of the orchard. It is a codicil.
nameless in this matter
USA Sat 04/29/2006

who pays in Italy
In general in Western Europe, he who invites picks up the tab. The waiter, not knowing who is the host, will give the bill to the person who orders. If you do the ordering, you will get the bill. Now,let's thicken the soup. Watch the waiter's eyes. The waiter will generally scan the males at the table to see who first makes eye contact. That is the waiter's way of knowing who the host is. Unless a female makes an overt move to get the waiter's attention, the waiter will consider the host to be the most senior looking male. Usually, (sometimes a female host will lead) the host is also the person who is last in the group as it is being shown to the table. Now, after dinner, should you make comments such as, "oh please let me have the bill" or "how much is our share?" Or "why don't I leave the tip?" No. You must learn to be a gracious guest. If you are being invited by someone you barely know, you likely were asked because of someone in the party. Ask that person well in advance for advice on selecting a small gift for the host's wife or companion, such as a daughter, for the dinner. If the group is entirely of young people, forget all of the above.
USA Sat 04/29/2006

How to get from Tours to Colmar
The best routes will likely be via Paris. It is the hub of rail as well as air travel. Unless you plan additional trips to the larger cities of Burgundy or plan to go into the Savoie, forget Dijon and Lyon. Return to Paris. Travel times can run up to 10 hours or more, but you will find some routes that take you into Paris Montparnasse from Tours and exit from Paris Est with TGV service via either Mulhouse or Strasbourg. These two routes take between 7 to 7.5 hours. I think Mulhouse is the faster of the two routes. I last took the Paris - Colmar trip nearly 2 years ago and had to tranfer for a short milk-run train into Colmar.
hg
USA Sat 04/29/2006

Mephestos Paris
I looked up their address once in Paris and found a big store of theirs in downtown and went there and bought one pair of mens gortex incorporated shoes - good choice when living in Seattle - came back to US and found same shoes for $350 where I almost didn't want to spend the $175 I did spend in Paris - great comfortable shoes - very useful in Seattle. Wish I had bought another pair or two.
Charlie <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Sat 04/29/2006

Train Reservations
I have a Eurail pass and will be taking several night trains. I think I remember reading this somewhere, but I want to be sure - once I am in Europe, can I reserve all seats/couchettes that I need at the same time? As in, if I want to reserve a night train from Warsaw to Berlin, do I need to be in Warsaw to reserve the couchette, or can I reserve it from Prague?
El
TX USA Sat 04/29/2006

portugal in october
How warm are Lisbon and the Algarve area in October. Are pools on (and heated) and is the ocean still swimmable? Any recommendations on beaches to swim at...blue flags, right?
Kathie
Olympia, WA USA Sat 04/29/2006

Lucerne to Milan
I am trying to make plans and figure out cost. I want to get from Lucerne to Milan on train unless there is a better/faster/cheaper way I don't know about. I am staying at a hostel in Lucerne. On the train website I am only finding a cost going from Lucerne to Lugano, then Lugano to Milan for twice the cost of going from Zurich to Milan. Am I missing something or is this my only option?? Thanks for your help : )
Shirley <email>
Dallas, TX USA Sat 04/29/2006

Laura: to Colmar
However you decided to go to Colmar, it will be a long trip. There is a route across the central width of France, but also one from Paris to Colmar via Strasbourg that is about 5 hours more or less. Also there seems to be one via Dijon, even Lyon. My rail map does not show the type of service provided and that is the important point. You have a rail pass so distance is not important. Travel time is. Perhaps you should check the sncf site for those routes with the most tgv service, that is, the shortest travel times including layover periods.
USA Sat 04/29/2006

Concerning the price of airline tickets:
It seems that you might be asking two separate questions.

All flights to every location in the off season will be less expensive that a similar flight in the high season. That is, a flight from Dallas to Rome in February will be cheaper than the same flight in July.

Separate from that is the time you purchase the ticket. I don't really have all that much experience traveling but I'm a good reader and everything I read tells me that although the price might bob up and down a few dollars, the price is generally headed up. Book now I say.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Sat 04/29/2006

Cat - Your Sorrento experience
Cat - if you'd like to email me, I can address some questions you might have. Renting a car in Sorrento isn't the best of ideas..the roads are hard to drive, if you plan to drive the coast line....however, if you wanted to rent out of Naples and go north to Umbria, or east to the smaller towns, then go for a rented car.

While in Sorrento, take advantage of the ferry. Go to Capri if you must...but for sure, take a ferry to Amalfi. Go FAST ferry over, and SLOW ferry back. The fast ferry gets you there...the slow ferry allows you time to enjoy the coast line and marvel at Amalfi, Portofino closer to shore...great for getting photos.
Italy Lover <email>
USA Sat 04/29/2006

Airline tickets - - prices
NO one can predict when airlines will raise air fares...However, today in the business section of the Denver Post (CO) an article talks about how airfares are just going to go UP.

Think about it...are you paying more at the gas pump? Are other articles made from crude oil going up in price? diapers? plastics? Well.....airfares are only going to go up.

If you wait to get a better fare....you won't. Airlines are overbooking flights, taking out services, and charging more. If you want to vacation in Europe this summer...you better bite the bullet and buy your ticket now, or you will be priced out - -or have to cut back how many days you can holiday overseas.
USA Sat 04/29/2006

Train station names
Hailey, Most big cities have several train stations. Often times there are several "main" stations serving different lines out of the city in different directions. The best way to make sense of the bahn lists, is to look at a map of each city and figure out where the stations are.
Tony <email>
San Jose, CA Sat 04/29/2006

Buying Alhambra tickets in Granada, Spain
I went on the Alhambra website to purchase tickets a couple of weeks ago and they are all booked up for mid May. I did note the cost was 10 Euro plus a very small booking fee. I just booked a hotel in Granada and inquired about getting tickets through them. The hotel responded back by quoting 39.50 Euro for each ticket. Seems like a very steep price for their service or maybe I'm missing something. Does anyone have any experience with waiting in line the day you want to visit the Alhambra. Is it likely we can get in if we get in line around 8 a.m.?
Teri <email>
Newport Beach, CA USA Sat 04/29/2006

Halley, re train stations in Italy etc
The main station for Venice is Sta Lucia station. Ck on Ricks website under railpasses section for more details on how to get info you need.
JS
USA Sat 04/29/2006

Train station names
I have been looking on the bahn website to get an idea for travel times between cities and am getting rather confused. There is often more than one station for a particular city. For instance when I type Venice (Venezia) it comes up with 5 different stations. What is the difference and when I am there (or now for the planning stage)which stop do I get off? This is my first trip out of the US and am just confused over this issue. Is there anyone out there who can help?
Hailey
Summerland, CA USA Sat 04/29/2006

How to store Pics
Steph, In England, Boots Chemists (the English equivalent of Walgreens) have photo kiosks where you can burn your pics to a CD. I don't know about Spain or Italy but I bet you'll be able to find similar. In any case, I doubt that you'll fill your 1GB card in two weeks.
Tony
San Jose, CA USA Sat 04/29/2006

Aachen
Anyone familiar with Aachen? We will visit in early July, do NOT want to stay near the University. Rick Steves does not cover Aachen. Will have a car. We'd love a good B&B, local place. Hotel is ok too.
Bette <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Sat 04/29/2006

Dutch Open-Air Museums
My family and I have committed to a full day visiting a Dutch open-air museum this upcoming June, but are having difficulty chosing. We're staying in Haarlem but are willing to travel to the best one. We're torn between Zaanse Schans and Arnhem. Is there someone out there who can recommend one over the other?
Shawn <email>
Sioux Falls, SD USA Sat 04/29/2006

Steph - store pics
You should be able to take over 750 pictures with a 1GB memory card. Running out of memory won't be a problem.
USA Sat 04/29/2006

Airline ticket prices
At what date will CONTINENTAL AIRLINES change its prices for tickets for flights to airports in Europe from airports in the U.S.A. May 15 ?
Ken
Missouri USA Sat 04/29/2006

Sleeping in Turkey in August
Where do you suggest my wife and stay in Istanbul and near Ephesus in late August this year?
Larry & Peggy Iversen <email>
Bremerton, WA USA Sat 04/29/2006

Mephisto shoes
Just takes a couple minutes of research on your part, I Googled Mephisto shoes and what do you know, this web site came up, amazing how that happens!

http://www.mephisto.com
USA Sat 04/29/2006

Tours to Colmar
We will be traveling from Paris to Tours and then to Colmar. What is the best way to get from Tours to Colmar by train? We have a Eurail pass. Should we go back through Paris?
Laura <email>
Burbank, CA USA Sat 04/29/2006

From Cat To Italy Lover IE
Thanks Italy lover. We will be arriving in Naples and staying in Sorrento before we go to Rome. What do you think about renting a car for a few days to travel around our area? Tours will be offered with the group we are traveling with but this is our second trip to Italy and we dont want to repeat. Cat
Cat
Wa USA Sat 04/29/2006

SHANE......NUMBER OF NIGHTS VARIOUS PLACES
It depends on what you want to see. Some cities are worth a week.

Some only 2 days. Read Rick's books to decided what you want to see in each town.

Or search google.com for each city's attractions.
TYE W.
WACO, TX USA Sat 04/29/2006

HUNGARIAN CURRENCY
Jean: it is OK to take Euros to Hungary, but you would pay a conversion fee to use them since Hungary is on the florint .

But don’t take florints ; use your ATM card like all wise travelers do.

You will find machines in all RR stations, air terminals and hotels.

They are cheaper to use than buying local currency any other way.
USA Sat 04/29/2006

KRIS....FERRY FROM ANCONA TO SPLIT
Call your auto rental agency toll free number and ask for rental rates for both cities.

Then check the web page for the ferry to determine the cost. That is the way I would research it.
MARIANNE Z.
NYCITY, USA Sat 04/29/2006

number of nights various places
I am looking at all the places in Europe I want to go to. I know that these will all be done over a series of trips but I was wondering how many nights you need in the following places

Venice rome Nice Barcelona Prague Berlin istanbul
Shane <email>
canada Sat 04/29/2006

LAURIE....HOSTELS IN SCANDINAVIA
My wife and I stay in hostels. We stayed in Eurohostel in Helsinki. It is excellent and a block from the trolley. In Copenhagen we stayed at Fredensborg which is a few miles north of the city; we had a car, but there may be public transportation.
HARRY W
DALLAS, TX USA Sat 04/29/2006

TINA.......SPAIN TOLEDO AND MADRID
I suggest you stay for a couple of days. Park your car at the end of the bus line and ride the bus into town like wise tourists do.

There is a lot to see in Madrid ; do a google.com search for Madrid sights.
USA Sat 04/29/2006

Mephistos shoes in Paris
Does anyone know how to go about looking for Mephistos shoes in Paris? Are they just in most shoe stores or do they have a special store for them? I've heard they are really comfortable and much cheaper in Paris than here.
USA Sat 04/29/2006

How to store Pics?
I will be spending 2 weeks jumping from london, s. spain, and rome. I'm taking a digital camera with a 1GB storage disk? What's the best way to be able to take more pics if I fill that up? Should I buy another storage disk or is it easy to find a place I can burn CD's over there? Do they have little Kodak kiosks like we have over here? Thanks for the help
Steph <email>
Tyler, TX USA Sat 04/29/2006

Cat - Rome to Florence or Venice
It's 3 hours from Florence to Venice...so that's more than a day trip from Rome or Naples.

Don't try to do too much. If you are in southern Italy...check the sights down there. Spend some time in Umbria, go to Todi, Orvieto, Cortona, etc. Go do the Amalfi coast line...see Pompei/Vesuvio, visit more museums. Slow down!!

Leave Florence and Venice for another trip. You will feel too rushed in either of this wonderful cities trying to do it in a day!
Italy lover
USA Sat 04/29/2006

Visiting the Msueums in Florence
If you are going to Florence this summer, don't forget to get your tickets for the Ufizzi and the Accademia BEFORE you go. We had reservations for 8:30 am and when we arrived the line was all the way around the courtyard! We took our vouchers to the ticket office and went to the head of the line and walked in. Rick is right: smart travelers have their tickets ahead of time! And the two museums are not to be missed! And don't miss the The Museum of the Opera del Duomo behind the Duomo. And if you have time, take the bus to Fiesole.
Andy Perry <email>
Louisville, KY USA Sat 04/29/2006

proposal in Italy
Eighteen years ago my husband proposed to me on the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence- very romantic- but very cold- it was December....and I thought he was joking...but other than that it was beautiful! :)
l.
chicago, IL USA Sat 04/29/2006

Train Travel from Naples and Rome
If you visit www.bahn.de, the German national rail site that has timetables for most of Europe, you will see that there is frequent service between the cities on your list. Here are the fastest times: Naples to Florence - 3:36 Naples to Venice - 7:00 Rome to Florence - 1:36 Rome to Venice - 4:33
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 04/29/2006

SPAIN -Toledo/more Madrid????
Toledo, Spain. Are there too many cars and tourists and would we be sorry if we didn't stay there for a couple days? The other option is to spend more time in Madrid but we are already going to be there 5 days. Is there enough to see in Madrid? Would appreciate suggestions/feedback.. for those who have been there...
Tina <email>
Vancouver, WA USA Fri 04/28/2006

Going Dutch in Italy?
What is the proper paying etiquette if you have been invited to dinner in a nice restaurant with Italian people that you really do not know well. Does the bill get passed around like here in the states?
Josi <email>
Long Beach, Ca USA Fri 04/28/2006

Train travel from Naples and Rome
We will be in Naples and Rome in June. Anyone know what the logistics are for day trips by train from these area's to Florence and Venice. I know Florence is only 1.5 hours away. How easy is it to get to and from there by rail??
Cat
Wa USA Fri 04/28/2006

I don't know if this is the right place to post this, but has anyone heard of the Athienais hotel in Athens, Greece? My dad's friend was able to get us rooms there for a great price, but I can't find anything about it in guidebooks or on the internet. Any help would be great!
Sarah <email>
USA Fri 04/28/2006

Propose in Italy-Venice
I cannot think of a more romantic/memorable place in the world. Yes Sorrento is wonderful also but Venice is #1 no doubt.
Ca USA Fri 04/28/2006

Purse/Carry-on
There is one way to get around the "purse is a carry on", take a larger sachel or small duffle with the must-have's for the plane but leave some space in the duffle for your purse. Just before boarding, place the purse inside the duffle--you're all set, its now just one carry-on. I saw a woman being given a ton of grief once as she tried to board a plane at Logan Airport. She had her purse and a shopping bag. They would not let her board. A nearby passenger leaned over to her and said, "Put the purse in the shopping bag" It worked. No rules broken, it was now just one carry-on. Sometimes these rules are a little too rigid. Then of course there is the flier who carries a huge fold-up garment bag and they let him thru. Go figure. Better to avoid the issue. I have never had trouble with my printed canvas duffle. It is about 20" X 14" by 4", soft sided. It scrunches to no size at all when empty, will hold my book, snack, water, a few other things and tops off nicely with my soft sided nylon travel purse.
Pat
MA USA Fri 04/28/2006

Propose in Italy - Venice is perfect
No matter what everyone on the board says, stick with your original idea...it's what you want to do, don't let anyone talk you out of it with "their favorite" place. In your mind, Venice is THE place to propose marriage to your gal....she'll love it ! All of Italy is romantic...heck...anywhere in the world that you take the person you love, and on top of that propose marriage is THE MOST ROMANTIC.

Go for it - and much love!
USA Fri 04/28/2006

Looking for B&B suggestions in Tuscany
Planning a trip to Rome and Tuscany in June. We plan to stay at Hotel Veneto in Rome, and are looking for B&B recommendations for Tuscany. Specifically one in wine country, and one outside Florence with easy access to the cities. The endless choices are overwhelming. Any suggestions, please email! Grazie!
Shelley <email>
NH, NH USA Fri 04/28/2006

Palacio de los Navas
Meg, http://www.palaciodelosnavas.com/ing/hotel.htm PALACIO DE LOS NAVAS - C/ Navas, 1 C.P..18009 Granada – Telf. y Fax. +34 958 21 57 60
Sally <email>
USA Fri 04/28/2006

Hotel Lioret
Liz, Hotel Lloret Rambla Canaletes, 125 08002 Barcelona Tel. (+34) 93 317 33 66 Fax (+34) 93 301 92 83 Email: info@hlloret.com http://www.hlloret.com/location.htm
Sally <email>
USA Fri 04/28/2006

Hostels in Scandinavia
We would like any recommendations for hostels in Helsinki, Stockholm and Copenhagen please. Has anyone stayed at the City Hostel in Copenhagen (1000 rooms)?? The location seems great but it looks HUGE!! Thanks for your help!!
Laurie <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Fri 04/28/2006

Ferry Ancona to Split
It looks as if it would cost at least 50 euro to take the car on the ferry and it would probably cost more to rent in Italy.
Jeff
USA Fri 04/28/2006

Ben--In Venice
Ah, Ben. Yes, Venice is nice. Florence just as wonderful. But Ben, Sorrento is romantic. Take her to Sorrento! Best wishes, Ben...marriage is a wonderful journey.
Marriage 26 years
USA Fri 04/28/2006

Propose in Venice
Ben, I would like to disagree with the "Florentine" about where to propose to your girl friend. Florence has many wonderful sights but it is in no way as romantic as Venice. The traffic is horrible and if a bus doesn't run you down a Vespa will. There are many canal side restaurants in Venice but I don't know any by name. Be sure to take bug spray for summer there!! Good luck and best wishes.
USA Fri 04/28/2006

Hotel Lloret Barcelona
Does anyone know if there is an email address for Hotel Lloret in Barcelona? I have a slightly older Rick Steves book for Spain and there is none listed. I am interested in making a reservation, but would prefer not to have to make an international phone call. Thanks!
Liz
Hyattsville, MD USA Fri 04/28/2006

ferry from Ancona to Split
Has anyone taken the ferry from Ancona, Italy to Split, Croatia? Is it better to rent a car in Italy to ferry over or wait until I reach Croatia to rent a car? We are leaving in mid-May
Kris <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 04/28/2006

Currency Hungary
Is it OK to take Euro ? or would we need to rake Hugarian Florints as well ?
Jean <email>
Riverside, CA USA Fri 04/28/2006

Avignon to Pont du Gard Bus
Off-season, there are only 2 busses that allow a same-day return. One departs Avignon first thing in the AM (apporx. 8:00,) and gives you the option of returning mid-day, or at the end of the day. The bus I took departed Avignon at noon, and I caught the only returning bus at 6:00 PM at the Pont du Gard roundabout. That left me with almost 5 hours to explore the area, and I was back in Avignon by about 7:30 PM.

The Avignon TI also arranges day trips to Pont du Gard, every other day off-season.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Fri 04/28/2006

hotel help in Granada
I am trying to find the webiste (if there is one) for Palacio de los Navas in Granada,Spain. Can anyone help me out? Pics look great and I would like more direct contact. Thanks!
Meg <email>
Texas USA Fri 04/28/2006

Shipping to the US
If he only has 50# to ship, find out what his airline will charge for an extra check-in bag (or two)
Charlie
USA Thu 04/27/2006

Shipping stuff to home (USA)
My college student son will be studying in Alicante, Spain for 6 weeks and then backpacking it across Europe for 3 weeks. What is a good, economical way to send home the extra stuff like books, extra clothes, etc? It can be slow if cheaper. A quick check on the UPS website seemed to indicate that it would be over $200 to ship 50 lbs.
Bruce <email>
Rochester, MN USA Thu 04/27/2006

Ben--In Venice?
Ah, Ben. You go to Venice to tell the woman of your heart that there is no life in you without her. But why? One should fawn over the most beautiful woman of your world in the most beautiful of cities in Italy--therefore in the world. Take her to Florence. You need to tell her nothing. She will know your intent and she will be powerless to refuse you even for an Italian of regal standing and much fortune. Take her to Florence and she will know your reason to do so. She will know that it is the only fit setting for your declaration of adoration of her. Florence, Ben, Florence.
A son of Florentines
USA Thu 04/27/2006

Purse is a carry on for plane
Most airlines consider a purse one of your carry ons.
USA Thu 04/27/2006

taxis in Caen
We are planning a one day trip to Normandy in August. My question is, are there taxis waiting outside the train station as there are when ships dock to take tourists on private tours?
Pam Leder <email>
Englewood, CO USA Thu 04/27/2006

Toni - Thank you
Corrida or carmague games??????

Tell me more
USA Thu 04/27/2006

Mary Ann from Calgary: Barcelona hotels
Mary Ann, I am going to Barcelona in May and booked at Hotel Llorat (hllorat.com). It is at the top of Las Ramblas. I have a single room with a bathroom for 45 Euro, including all taxes. I think breakfast is an extra 4 Euro. If you'd like me to let you know how it is, email me and I'll send you a reply when I return! I also looked into Hostel Opera, Arthotel, and Hotel Llaterrassa.
Sherri <email>
Buffalo, NY USA Thu 04/27/2006

bullfights in arles
Corrida or carmague games. Can anyone clue me in?
toni
houston, USA Thu 04/27/2006

Bliven
Have you tried the Cara Black stories? Perhaps Murder in the Marais? There are several more.
hg
ILL USA Thu 04/27/2006

Museum pass
I was told you can buy your museum pass at the Airports through the Tourist Infomation center. Is this correct??
Nancy
NM USA Thu 04/27/2006

Avignon to Pont du Gard Bus Schedules
Does anyone know the STDG bus schedule from Avignon Gare Routier to the Pont du Gard stop and return times for Mid Oct.? Thanks Michael
Michael Nelson <email>
Kansas City, , MO USA Thu 04/27/2006

Potentially Morbid, Possibly Illegal
Is it allowed to take a person's ashes from creamation to France to scatter them?
Judith
Rancho Santa Fe, CA USA Thu 04/27/2006

BerryWhite & Unique Travel Experiances
You're right about the importance of research. Try the Imperial War Museum when you're next in London. Also they've added more about Churchill to the Cab.War Rooms. Two other things that take a little pre-planning are the Ceremony of the Keys at The Tower of London and private entry into Stonehenge..your choices are before opening and after closing..Reservations made well in advance are a must for both of these... Not many people mention how good the Tower Bridge Experiance is. Terrific views and a history lesson.
lcb <email>
Kirkland, WA USA Thu 04/27/2006

Le Marche Ste Catherine
Walk out the front door of the hotel. small street near the hotel entrance in the direction of rue Saint Antoine. That roughly square area with several restaurants on the periphery is it. A marche (with an accent mark on the "e") is a marketplace. In this case it is the square for the onetime outdoor market.
USA Thu 04/27/2006

Venice to the Berner Oberland
We are going from Venice to the Berner Oberland also, so last January I went to the www.bahn.de website and typed in where we are departing from (Venice) and where we are ultimately going (Interlakken). It brought up the entire route which I then printed out on my printer. The train leaves from Venice, goes to Milan where you change trains, then from Milan to Spiez where you, again, change trains, and that goes directly to Interlakken. It is very easy to get info on any route you need on the www.bahn.de website.
USA Thu 04/27/2006

Marche St. Catherine in Paris
Hello. I have just finished reading Susie Gershman's book C'Est La Vie and she talks about Marche St. Catherine in the Marais. Can any of you give me a description of the area and some of the highlights? It sounds wonderful, and very close the the Hotel Jeanne D'Arc, which is where we are staying, but not until late September. Thanks so much in advance.
Bliven
Madison, WI USA Thu 04/27/2006

Italy and Switzerland
Annie,

Yes. There is a luggage storage place at the Pisa train ststion. I don't remember the charges but it was nominal. There is also a bus stop outside the train station to go see a tower. Very convenient. Hope this helps.
MJ
CA USA Thu 04/27/2006

Overnight Train in Italy
There is a night train with couchettes leaving Rome at 00:47 that arrives in Parma at 07:04. Change trains and leave Parma at 07:52, arriving in Monterosso at 10:17. See www.bahn.de for the timetables.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 04/27/2006

Overnight Train in Italy
Thanks for the previous information on the overnight to Cinque Terre from Rome. I was considering the train from Rome to Genoa because in the R.S. Italy book, that is listed as a suggestion. Going straight to La Spezia, etc. would not be long enough - we'd arrive at 4am. We would like to save travel time this way. Can anyone advise me on how best to travel overnight train from Rome to Cinque Terre - not arriving in wee hours of morning but allowing for sleep?
Sydney
Decatur, GA USA Thu 04/27/2006

Italy and Switzerland
To get to the Berner Oberland from Venice, you would transfer at Spiez (instead of Bern). From Spiez its only a 15 minute ride to Interlaken.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Thu 04/27/2006

bullfights in Arles
Katie--Do you mean feria and corridas or the Carmargue games? Carmargue is not usually on Saturday, but begin at about 5. Perhaps you mean the riz feria @Sept 8/9-11? Times aren't set, but 5 is the usual time for corrida in Provence.
USA Thu 04/27/2006

Paris Museum Pass
The Paris Museum Pass is no longer available at metro stations. You can buy it at participating museums and monuments, the Paris Tourist Office and branch offices, Espace du Tourism Ile-de-France, and branches of FNAC.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 04/27/2006

Italy and Switzerland
We are traveling to Europe this summer and flying into Venice. We are planning to spend the first part of the trip in Brennar Oberlan. What is the fastest way for us to get there? Take the train to Bern?

Also, when traveling from the Cinque Terra to Florence we will pass through Pisa. Is there a place to store our luggage at the Pisa station? Thank you!
Annie <email>
Baltimore, MD USA Thu 04/27/2006

Paris Museum Pass
According to the Guidebook Updates section of this website, the Paris museum pass is 30/45/60 Euros for 2/4/6 days. I would buy one at a Metro station.
USA Thu 04/27/2006

RYANAIR EXPERIENCE
Doug: If you read this column to the last letter you will find lots of comments on Ryanair.

Also read the section named “Flying within Europe”.
USA Wed 04/26/2006

Tina - London Digs
The Lime Tree Hotel is in Belgravia near Victoria Station.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 04/26/2006

Tina - London Digs
When staying in London at different places, before and after a RS tour of Eng/Scot/Wh, and comparing notes with others on the RS tour, those who stayed at the Lime Tree were SO pleased that I would definately stay there next time in London.
Charlie <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Wed 04/26/2006

ToTina -London digs
Not sure what inexpensive in London is to you but try Cherry Court Hotel approx 60 pounds for a dble. or try travelodge UK, just google them. hope this helps. best book as soon as you know your schedule.
JS
Ca USA Wed 04/26/2006

RyanAir Experience
Can anyone give feedback on RyanAir and the baggage policy. Ryanair allows one carryon. I have the RS backpack and a smal DSLR camera bag (camera and 1 lens). The camera bag isn't near as big the Day Pack but I am not sure if RyanAir considers that carryon as well. Do they also consider purses as carryon?

I have been to their site and they do not give details nor do they have an email to ask.
Doug <email>
Greenwood, IN USA Wed 04/26/2006

London digs
My husband and I are looking for an inexpensive hotel in London. I see that someone mentioned the Lime Tree. What part of London is that? I haven't purchased the Rick Steves London book, though I will. I couldn't have survived Paris or Rome without his books. I haven't been in London since the Beatles broke up...long time...haha.
Tina
Seattle, USA Wed 04/26/2006

Best time to buy airfare
With gas prices on the rise every single day, today is the best day to buy your tickets. As has been mentioned, you will get brain damage trying to find the cheapest price. Those days are GONE. Plan on about $1000 per person for now through October, There might be "specials" but getting those seats might be impossible.

Take a deep breath, open your wallet, grab the credit card and book your flight so you can start to plan the rest of your trip. Americans are flying, so seats are harder to get. Heck - I flew to London on Jan 4 and the 777 was oversold from Chicago to London...in January!!

Buy and Bye bye!
USA Wed 04/26/2006

Paris Museum Pass
Jennifer, You may have reasons that I didn't consider for wanting to buy the museum pass online. In that case I hope someone can help you out. As far as the price, as of 3 weeks ago it was 15 euros per day. (2 day 30 euros, 4 day 60 euros) I too used an old RS guide on my trip and found everything to be about 5-10% more expensive then my 2003 guide book said it would be.
Dan
Bremerton, WA USA Wed 04/26/2006

Paris Museum Pass
Jennifer,

No need to buy the pass on line. You can buy it from most Metro ticket offices when you buy your Metro tickets. I bought mine at the Louvre underground mall. Be advised that the 3 day pass is no longer available.
Dan
Bremerton, WA USA Wed 04/26/2006

Prices
JJ - I agree in part with Frank that if you try to spend your time looking for 'good' air fares, it'll drive you nuts!

One thing I've found is that there is a drop off in price around October and stays at a low until spring. After spring, the price will rise dramatically thru the summer.

I will suggest that you look at both the internet and info from travel agents. From what I've seen, sometimes the net is cheaper and sometimes is trave agents. TAs sometime have insight to cheaper fares that arent advertised. That being said, checking the net will give you the roundabout knowledge of what the prices are therefore when the TA tells you a price, you know if they are really giving a deal or not.
LC <email>
Nashville, Tn USA Wed 04/26/2006

Continuous positive airway pressure. It's used to treat sleep apnea.
USA Wed 04/26/2006

C-PAP MACHINE
What is a "C-Pap" Machine??
USA Wed 04/26/2006

Best Time to Buy
JJ -- there is no best time to buy. You buy it when you are comfortable with the price. You can do a lot of brain damage trying to find the lowest price and never finding it. Save the money somewhere else in the trip.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Wed 04/26/2006

Paris Museum Pass
Does anyone know of a website that includes information on the Paris Museum Pass? I currently have Rick Steves France 2005 but wanted to view the most updated information on pricing for the pass. Also, is it possible to buy the Paris Museum Pass before arriving in Paris (i.e online, via phone, etc)? Thanks for any help!
Jennifer <email>
Lynnwood, Wa USA Wed 04/26/2006

IPod - convertor
You don't need a voltage convertor to charge an IPod in the UK, just a plug adapter.

Kate
Kate
Scotland Wed 04/26/2006

AC YORKSHIRE DALES
A great B&B is Laburnum House in Thirsk. Go to www.smoothhound.co.uk for lots and lots of B&Bs
LCB <email>
KIRKLAND, WA USA Wed 04/26/2006

Traveling to Spain over Xmas and NY
I am planning a trip to Barcelona and southern spain over xmas and new years - any advice, suggestion, gotchas about traveling during this time? What will the trains be like on xmas day? Also, if we are in a larger city like Madrid or Barcelona on xmas day, will ANYTHING be open? Thank you
TEE
USA Wed 04/26/2006

Best time to buy airfare
Does anyone have any suggestions for the best time to purchase airfare for a trip to Europe in September? We will be flying into London and out of Rome and need the best possible deal on a flight we can get. Thanks.
JJ
Salt Lake City, USA Wed 04/26/2006

Hotel in London
Both those hotels look like great locations. Be warned the Lime Tree has no elevator so you have to hike up the stairs (fine if you are prepared). Check out www.tripadvisor.com for reviews. Lime Tree gets a little higher rating then the Russell.

We are staying at Clariages in July but it is 5 star and very, very expensive (but got really high reviews). At the time I booked it I didn't convert the pounds in my head but then decided oh well...this is a once in a life time trip for us so I'm splurging. I got cheaper hotels in the other countries we are going to.
Sally <email>
USA Wed 04/26/2006

Hotel in London
Will be in London first week in June. Need to find a nice hotel that is centrally located. Thinking about the Lime Tree Hotel or the Hotel Russell. Can anyone tell me something about these or suggest a better hotel. Thanks. Pat
Pat <email>
Byhalia, MS USA Wed 04/26/2006

Kate-Lake Como
We stayed at Hotel Aurora in Lezzano on Lake Como in 9/04. Lezzano is about 3.5 miles south of Bellagio. The hotel was perfect!! It costs about euro 90/night. Their restaurant is in front of the hotel on Lake Como. It's a beautiful view, and the food is excellent!! We had a room w/balcony facing the lake which I highly recommend (nothing fancy, but very clean, comfortable and great view! Margherita is very accommodating. Their website is www.hotelauroralezzano.com. I had trouble getting on, but you can put Aurora Hotel Bellagio in Google, and click on the third listing down. Then when you are in website, click on English in the bottom left corner. Enjoy Lake Como and Italy!
AGV <email>
Houston, TX USA Wed 04/26/2006

c-pap machine
Lee, I just flew here in the States last week and the screener made me take my c-pap machine out of my carry on bag so he could check it. It only took a minute. I would not put mine into checked baggage. I was told it was like an expensive computer and should not be checked.
USA Wed 04/26/2006

Lux flights question by Flygirl
Icelandair flies into Luxenbourgh City directly from BWI.
Bob <email>
Gettysburg, PA USA Wed 04/26/2006

Kate - Lake Como
FYI - To get to the Menaggio/Bellagio area, you can take a train from Milan to Varenna. Then take the ferry to the specific town or stay in Varenna.
Chicago, USA Wed 04/26/2006

Kate - Lake Como
My husband and I stayed in Menaggio near Bellagio last May. We stayed at a small, family run hotel called Albergo Vapore for about 60 euros per night. The hotel had a restaurant and rooms with balconies and views of the lake. There was also a 5-star hotel in town if that is more your style. Although we called the day before and booked our reservation in May, I would guess that August is busier in Lake Como, so book early. While you're there, visit the Villa Carlotta for beautiful gardens and scenery.
Chicago, USA Wed 04/26/2006

Electrical Converters
Radio Shack sells two converters, one for electronic devices and one for higher wattage appliances like hair dryers. You'll also need a plug adapter for the UK.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 04/26/2006

Kate--Lake Como
Start your search by reading Rick Steve's book "ITALY." You can ask a more specific question after filling in the basic info. Lake Como has lots of towns and lots of hotels at a range of rates.
USA Wed 04/26/2006

Elba--Kimberley
Try www.visitelba.com. Or go to Google and type in "Elba." A lot of stuff comes up.
USA Wed 04/26/2006

Elba-sleeping?
I am going to Elba in August for two nights. Where can I stay for CHEAP, pref. hostels, I am having a really tough time, all the sites don't have listings for any cities on the island! Help?!?
Kimberly <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 04/25/2006

converter for UK
anyone know if I can buy a converter chargerhere in the US so that I can recharge my Ipod in UK ? thank you.
Jean <email>
Riverside, CA USA Tue 04/25/2006

CPAP Machines
I always pack my CPAP machine in checked baggage and have never had any problems. I know talk of checked baggage is taboo here, but it works for me!:)
M
USA Tue 04/25/2006

Re: BritRail England Flexipass
We used this railpass last August. Took the Heathrow Express into Paddington station to continue onto the Cotswolds. This counted as one day of the pass and would also include any other train rides later that same day.

This was the most economical, fastest and easiest way for us to get to the Cotswolds. Otherwise, the Heathrow Express is quite expensive...I think about 13GBP.
BG
San Francisco, CA USA Tue 04/25/2006

Charlie:
My wife and I will be using an overnight train from Barcelona to Madrid because we want to maximize our time in each of the two cities. Funny how two (four) people can see all the same facts and reach two different conclusions isn't it.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Tue 04/25/2006

Lake Como
My husband and I are traveling to Itlay for 17 days in August. We are flying into Milan and want to start our trip in Lake Como before we head on to Venice, Florence, and Tuscany. Can anyone help us on where to stay or where to go?
Kate <email>
Houstton, tx USA Tue 04/25/2006

Sherri - Barcelona - Madrid
Two of us flew Iberia between Barcelona and Madrid last fall (2005) for just over $110(US)as that was not much more than the fast train wanted. We wanted to maximize out time in each city. If we were to go back with unlimited time, we would probably take the slow train to enjoy the sceenery.
Charlie <email>
Hololulu, HI USA Tue 04/25/2006

Cinque Terre hotel
Last fall I spent 3 days in Levanto at the B n B Villa Margherita. It was great. Train travel to CT is easy (2 stops to Monterosso). Levanto is a really nice town and has a great beach ...better than any CT towns.

I also spent a week in Bonassola (1 stop from Monterosso and easy to get there) last fall. It is a truly charming small town. Stayed at Hotel Delle Rose. I can recommend it also. Bonassola also has a great beach.
Linda
PA USA Tue 04/25/2006

Venice Card
Has anyone used the VeniceCard in Venice? Is it a good thing for a two-day stay? It costs less if one orders it online, so it would be nice to know ahead of time.
Elsa
Sacramento, CA USA Tue 04/25/2006

lux air
Is Luxembourg served by any low cost carriers?
flygal
Denver, CO USA Tue 04/25/2006

luxembourg to italy
Does anyone know of the best way to get from Luxembourg to Italy? I waned to take an Artesia night train, but they don't go through luxembourg. Do I have other options?
flygal
Denver, CO USA Tue 04/25/2006

TRAVEL WITH CPAP MACHINES
Lee: I have carried my CPAP machine all over the world without problem.

I always pack it in my carry-on and throw it into the overhead bin.

I always pack it on top in my bag and only once did a security person ask about it.

And it was only because he was curious.
DAN W.M.
DENVER, USA Tue 04/25/2006

DRIVE FROM SALZBURG TO NICE
Katie: Quickest driving route from Salzaburg to Nice is: to Innsbruck, to St Moritz, to Milano, to Nice. There aren’t many super highways going that way. It looks like 530 miles.
TYE R.
ULMA, OK USA Tue 04/25/2006

Sankt Josef hotel in Wurzburg
I'm glad that Gary liked the Sankt Josef hotel. I made reservations there for July when I am again traveling with my parents. The price is right. 55E for a single and 90E for a double!
Karen <email>
MN USA Tue 04/25/2006

For Nancy - Castex in the Marais?
Nancy - if you meant the Castex Hotel in the Marais, it is used by Rick Steves' tours and is a nice hotel in a good location. Rooms are small, but so are most in this category in Paris. If I recall correctly, it's about a 2-3 block walk to the Seine from the hotel.
Susan
CA USA Tue 04/25/2006

Castrex Hotel
While staying in Paris we have choosen the Castrex in the Marias area. Anyone have info on how it is. Is it close to the boat ramps? We plan on taking the bataboats around to the various sites we have decided on.
Nancy
NM USA Tue 04/25/2006

Würzburg Hotel
"why not get the tickets through the hotel website? They are less that way."

I assume that you mean reservations. The price was about the same on the hotel website when I looked. I had used HRS (from the DB site) to research much of my trip and often found them much cheaper at other hotels. So, I wanted to use them this time to test the system, which worked well. I liked the folks at the St. Josef and would not be reluctant to reserve directly with them.

Regards, Gary
Gary
Salt Lake City, UT USA Tue 04/25/2006

Barcelona accommodation
I'm looking for a recommendation for accommodation in Barcelona. Hotels are out of price range...Pension? B&B? for 2 40ish women travelling together.
Mary Ann
Calgary, canada Tue 04/25/2006

Madrid to Barcelona
If you want to get to Barcelona faster, Iberia and Spanair has great rates online. If I remember correctly, I think I paid 27 euros one way... for 2 of us, it came to about $100 (tax included). There's commuter shuttles every hour.
USA Tue 04/25/2006

Fastest way from Riviera to Barcelona
Is their a night train from anywhere in the south of France to Barcelona? I've been looking all over the web (including elipsos.com and seat61.com) and can't find info (maybe that means "no" then). The ride from Nice to Barcelona is soooo long, I was hoping there was an overnight train we could take. Any other tips would be appreciated!
Kelly <email>
Philadelphia, USA Tue 04/25/2006

Stephanie in DC: Five days? Strasbourg and the immediate neighborhood are worth AT LEAST that. Slow down. Sit in a cafe. Have some wine. Admire the locals. In your twenties? LUCKY YOU!! Don't worry---you'll be back just as soon as you can manage it. Best wishes.
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 04/25/2006

Translations for menus - MARLING MENU MASTER!
For an easy way to translate menus....look for a Marling Menu Master for the country/language you need. They are very slim, light weight books and work really well - you won't end up eating a bunny rabbit if you have this book! If you can't find one at your local bookstore...try Amazon.com. I bought mine at a discount, it was used, but who cares.

The Franklin translators are ok, but a book is easier, no learning process, and it's all right at your fingertips. It can also help you learn a bit of the language
<email>
CO USA Tue 04/25/2006

Scooters in Rome
Has anyone ever rented little scooters in Rome? Just wondering how much it might cost for a day. Thanks
MJ
USA Tue 04/25/2006

Lee - Electronic translators
I bought a Franklin translator last year and we were in French, German, Italian, Czech, Croatian, Greek and Turkish-speaking countries. It was handy to have it, but mainly used it for translating menues. Most people we met spoke some English and we never had a problem communicating. I will probably take it again this year, but it is not one of my "must have" items.
Iain
Edmonton, AB Canada Tue 04/25/2006

Würzburg hotel
Gary,

why not get the tickets through the hotel website? They are less that way.
CO USA Tue 04/25/2006

Wurzburg Hotel
We enjoyed a stay at the St. Josef. Staff was very friendly and they have a decent restaurant. Good Breakfast. http://www.hotel-st-josef.de/

We reserved the room through HRS: http://web2.hrs.de/se/bahn?lang=uk

Regards, Gary
Gary <email>
Salt Lake City, UT USA Tue 04/25/2006

Surfing in France.
Mel, It's possible to plop a board into the Mediterranian to ride the swells into shore and call it surfing. It's not like Australia, or California, or Hawaii.
USA Tue 04/25/2006

CPAP
We traveled with my husband's CPAP machine thru England, Sweden, Iceland and Spain. In and out of airports in each place.

No one ever questioned the CPAP in his hand luggage.

He does suggest that you keep it on the top of your carryon, so it does not look like you are hiding the wires, etc.
Laura Rustin <email>
Houston, TX USA Tue 04/25/2006

AMANDA picking up car - FLORENCE Italy
Amanda, you have to take a cab, or bus from the Florence airport to get to the train station. There is no direct connect via train. The bus station is directly behind the train station, so that's an easy and cheaper way than an expensive cab - - if you want to save money that is!
USA Tue 04/25/2006

Driving Routes: Salzburg to Nice
For driving routes, visit www.viamichelin.com and www.mappy.com.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 04/25/2006

Walkie-Talkies
From the answers I read about the "walkie-talkies" for use in Europe, I guess I'll wait to get there to purchase a set so my partner and I don't get separated thru confussion and think something bad must have happened to the other. Thanks all.
Charlie <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Tue 04/25/2006

Bullfights in Arles
What time do bullfights in Arles usually start Saturdays in September?
Katie <email>
Portland, OR USA Mon 04/24/2006

Drive from Salzburg to Nice
This may be a stupid question, but I'm having trouble figuring this out.... Does anyone have a suggestion on the quickest driving route between Salzburg and Nice? Thanks!
Katie <email>
Portland, OR USA Mon 04/24/2006

Train from Paris to Carcassonne
I assume you mean Carcassonne, not Carsonne. Visit www.bahn.de, the German national rail site, to see timetables for most of Europe.
Tim <email>
Minot, Nd USA Mon 04/24/2006

Night Train from Madrid to Barcelona
Yes, there is a night train from Madrid to Barcelona. Book your ticket at www.renfe.es, the Spanish national rail site.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 04/24/2006

C-Pap Machines and Electronic translators
Has anyone had a problem carrying their C-Pap (sleep apnea) machine through security for the airlines? Also...are those handheld electronic translators worth buying?
Lee <email>
Gresham, OR USA Mon 04/24/2006

car for 6 people
Sally A… AutoFrance (www.autofrance.net) will “lease” you a Peugeot 807 minivan that can be configured to seat 5 to 8 people for around $2000 for the first 17 days (the minimum) and around $28 a day for the rest of the days(up to 6 months.) This includes multi-risk insurance with full collision coverage and no deductibles. There is no charge for pick-up / drop-off in France. All taxes are included. The automatic transmission version isn’t the most expensive version nor the cheapest. This vehicle doesn’t look boxy, but rather like a taller station wagon. More like a Dodge Caravan or Chrysler Town & Country. We’ve rented Peugeots from this bunch twice now and will get a 5 passenger Partner for a month this fall.
USA Mon 04/24/2006

Currency Conversion
For Suz: www.xe.com is just one of many more online conversion Websites. You can enter the amount (in this case, the Ryanair quote) and get your conversion to US dollars. When shopping for hotels, etc. it helps to keep the conversion site open so you can go back and forth until you get a rough sense of the comparison. I would "second" the Ryanair warning- carefully look at where the airports are and check transportation options to get from there to the city you are really trying to reach. My daughter is studying abroad and has frequently used Ryanair specials, but it takes her several hours each way to get to the airport served by the company and one time it took her nearly 20 hours (and $150.00 US, eventually) for her "bargain" weekend...
Karen
USA Mon 04/24/2006

Car rental Italy
Dear Amanda, the last thing you want to do after an international flight is to drive in Italy. Pick up your car another day. Get your sea legs first.
USA Mon 04/24/2006

Airline prices
Go to Oanda.com for currency conversion rates. 5.99 GBP (British Pounds) is about $10.71. But don't be misled. On top of the "fare", is more in taxes and fees. Also, RyanAir flies out of remote airports that take hours and many dollars to get to and from. Look at the entire cost.
CO USA Mon 04/24/2006

Airline prices...
I have been exploring prices for flights within Europe and am confused by the symbols... on the ryanair site i found a flight for 5.99 GBP. How much is that approximately in US dollars?
Suz
Seattle, WA USA Mon 04/24/2006

Over night train vs flight from Madrid to Barcelona
I am trying to get from Madrid to Barcelona (May 24). Can anyone recommend the best mode of transportation, plane or train? I had trouble finding a web site in English to book an over night train (if there even is one). I would like to book before I leave the US May 14th. Thanks for any help you can offer.
Sherri
Buffalo, NY USA Mon 04/24/2006

Ben:
Venice is the very essence of romance. You don't need to look for a special place.

You'd be hard pressed to find a restaurant that isn't romantic with a great setting and good food. Walk, hold hands, tell her you love her and when her tummy growls feed her at the very next cannel side restaurant you come to. If she turns you down, throw her in the cannel and call my sister. Best of luck.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Mon 04/24/2006

Venice
I am traveling to Venice this summer where I plan on asking my girlfriend to marry me on a gondola. Can you give me a recommendation on a romantic restaurant with good food and a great setting? thanks
Ben <email>
Ca USA Mon 04/24/2006

Wurzburg Hotel
Can anyone give me a referral to a nice quaint (and quiet) hotel in Wurzburg, Germany. I have a reservation at Hotel Strauss but some postings are not favorable for them.
Marie <email>
USA Mon 04/24/2006

Yorkshire Dales
To AC of Ohio~~you won't have any trouble finding a B&B around Dales. You should visit Rievaulx Abbey near Helmsley it is beautiful. Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal is worth a visit. We have stayed is a couple different B&B's in Leyburn, also you should visit the Wensleydale Heifer Inn, in West Witton Pub which James Herriot would go.They serve great food. It is on A684.
USA Mon 04/24/2006

Surfing in France
I was wondering if anyone knew of any good surfing places in Europe? I have heard of one in the south of France and was just wondering if anyone knows of someplace better or whatnot.
Mel
USA Mon 04/24/2006

Taking train from Paris to Carsonne
We are going to France in June, arriving in Paris, will spend 3 nights then on to carrsonne\. We are taking the train from Paris to Carrsonne, need any insight as to which train, direct or do we have to change trains?
N Robinson <email>
Farmington, New Mexico USA Mon 04/24/2006

Northern Ireland B & B
Dear GW: We just returned from 2 fantastic weeks in Ireland and Northern Ireland. All of our B & B's were good but one stands out and I must give it kudos. If you are going to the Giant's causeway area I highly recommend Brown's Country House. Its on Road B62 just south of the intersection with Road B17. Is is close to Portrush and the Causeway. We stayed 2 nights. The weather was blustery and Mrs. Brown welcomes you at check in with tea, coffee and snacks in her sitting room. You may run into their friendly dog (I think its name is Susie) in the driveway when you arrive. Ask her to tell you about the picture with Prince Charles in the breakfast room and enjoy the morning conversation with Mr. Brown as he serves you your Irish breakfast. It was 22 lbs per person per night (remember no Euros here) and I give it 4 1/2 stars!!!! Website is brownscountrtyhouse.co.uk and e-mail is brownscountryhouse@hotmail.com P.S. When you go to Portrush, I echo Rick's recommendation about Ramore's Wine Bar (at the Harbor), excellent food, drink, atmosphere and views. Food prices go up at 6PM. CHEERS!
Mike Joyce <email>
Newark, DE USA Mon 04/24/2006

florence airport
thanks for all the great advice about trains we are leaving for europe on sat and I need one more piece of info.can I get to the airport in florence from say genoa instead of going from genoa to florence rail station then to airport to pick up a car. they said we arrive too late from france to pick up a car at the rail station
amanda
thunder bay, canada Mon 04/24/2006

James in S.D.
Here is another option for you. Train from Paris to Lyon (maybe via Dijon?) and then train to Annecy. Strasbourg is way out of your way (recommend Colmar, but it is still a big detour) Get a car in Annecy. The rental office is a 2-minute walk from the train station. A drive---stop often to smell the roses--around Lac d'Annecy is easy and great if you want to soak up some Alpine atmosphere. In late August, there may still be crowds at the Lake, but they will be soon gone. Chamonix is fine in the winter but Mt Blanc is a wonderful sight anytime. If time is tight, skip Chamonix (I hear the boos in the background) because while it is a lovely spot in the summer, it is ideal for a winter vacation. Drive to Orange at the tip of Provence. It's all autoroute. I think Orange is cheaper than Arles and it certainly has a better but less famous Roman theater. A very good museum is opposite and an excellent place for dinner just east of amphitheater. Across from that is a small fabric shop with linens, cloths, seat pad, etc in the cheery Provencal style. These places are common but this one is run by a woman who genuinely wants to be of service and is very patient with the way Americans shop. Avignon is 20 minutes away, Arles, Uzes @45 minutes. And, from Orange the Ardeche Gorges are a nice day trip. Take the low road in and the high one back for some good white knuckle driving after taking a canoe along the river. If you continue on to Aix (there is a good town bus service) you are positioned for Les Baux and St Remy (too touristy for many people and priced accordingly) and even the little village, Cassis, on the Sea. Nice is terrible for parking. Perhaps you could day trip via train even though it seems very slow. By early September, much of the crowd will have returned to Paris. Instead of driving back to Paris--certainly your time by now will be very short unless you have rushed yourself--try driving into Marseille (actually, Marignane outside of Marseille) and take an Easyjet to Paris Orly. For less than half of what the tgv would have been for just one of us, two of us flew but we booked early. You can overnight at the airport and return you car there. Take the free shuttle bus to the terminal. If you are staying a few days more in Paris, you can take the bus and metro from Orly cheaper than you can the RER. You'll see some of Paris not on the postcards.
D. Ikkey <email>
USA Mon 04/24/2006

BritRail Pass Question
Has anyone used the Britrail England Flexi pass? Can you tell me if using the Heathrow Express and continuing on Britrail the same day still only counts as using one day of your pass?
Megan <email>
Stuttgart, Germany Mon 04/24/2006

Yorkshire Dales
My husband and I will be traveling in England in July and would like to spend a couple days in the Yorkshire Dales (with a stop at the James Herriott center). Does anyone have recommendations as to places to visit, itineraries or b&b's/farms to stay at? Thank you!
AC
Ohio USA Mon 04/24/2006

Travel from Corfu to Sicily
Please advise the best way to travel from Corfu to Italy. Our ultimate goal is to get to Sicily.
Ann DiNola <email>
Trenton, NJ USA Mon 04/24/2006

Cochem-Lodging
Anyone have lodging suggestions for Cochem, Germany?
Cherie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Mon 04/24/2006

Rome to Genoa?
For Sydney- coming on the train north from Rome, you needn't go all the way to Genoa to get to the CT. Genoa WILL be listed as a(n eventual) stop if the train goes there either with- or without- stopping at the first and last CT villages. If you want to go overnight (to save travel time?) you might type in Pisa or even Milan for the overnight searach and then transfer to the train for the CT upon arrival. The IC trains are the ones that make many local stops...
USA Mon 04/24/2006

Overnight Train in Italy
I would like to book an overnight train from Rome to Genoa (to then travel to Cinque Terre). I find the Trenitalia website confusing about this - I don't know how to be sure that I am booking a sleeping section and not just a seat (I'd hate to sleep the night in a chair). Does anyone have any information on how to book sleeper spots, and how to know what you are getting in the way of privacy, etc?
Sydney
Decatur, GA USA Mon 04/24/2006

German alps weather
We'll be traveling in the southern part of Germany from the last week in May until early in June. Trying to pack "light" in one bag....what's the weather liable to be like. Should we plan on shorts, capri's, long pants, short or long sleeve shirts. Thanks for the help!
Cathi <email>
Port Gibson, MS USA Mon 04/24/2006

Cinque Terre Booked! for May 26,27,28
Cinque Terre is all booked up for May 26,27,28 (Lemon Festival in Monterosso) I'd like to stay in Monterosso or Vernazza but can't seem to find a place. I'd like to hear reports from anyone who has stayed in Levanto or other 5Terre towns... Thanks!
Robert <email>
Brigham, Utah USA Mon 04/24/2006

20 minutes tops to get out of Heathrow.
Quote: Just out of curiosity, has anyone timed how long it took them to get through Heathrow customs and retrieve their luggage on a flight from the U.S.?

Answer: I was there in May and it took me 20 minutes... 5 minutes to get off the plane with my 21 inch suitcase, 10 minutes to walk to passport control, and 5 minutes to wait in line.
USA Mon 04/24/2006

Christmas in Spain
We are planning a trip to Spain during Christmas. We are going to Madrid and Barcelona. We also wanted to add a third destination maybe in the pyreneese region. Can someone recommend a picturesque town in the mountains (could also be on the French side). Thanks a lot.
Judy
Miami, fl USA Mon 04/24/2006

Car Rental for 6
We were able to rent a minivan for our family a few years ago, 2 adults and 4 children, ages 14, 11, 9 and 5. It was smaller than the U.S. models, and handled more like a car if that is your concern. We didn't have any problems getting around and parking. If possible, try to get one with a GPS and have the rental company set it to English. We did that last summer in Germany and it really helped with the navigation.
Dave
Richmond, USA Mon 04/24/2006

Car Rental for 6 people
For 6 people with luggage you'll need a minivan. No sedan or station wagon will hold that many people in addition to all of your luggage.
TIm
USA Mon 04/24/2006

Car vs Train
We almost always rent a car for our Europe trips. We land in the big city, i.e Paris, and after staying there a few days get a car and head out to the smaller places. Even though many of the towns we stay in are connected by train we like driving. We don't drive directly to our next destination- we try to find a scenic route, a smaller tourist sight, or just a cute town to visit in between our major stops. Last time we were in Ireland, it took us all day to drive a straight 4 hour stretch, but it was a beautiful route recommended by the owner of our last B & B. A picnic in the ruins of an old castle (NOT on a train line) was a highlight of a SW England tour and a stop to look at the view of some Tuscan vineyards led to a conversation with the neighbors who were thrilled to use their English and tolerated our poor Italian!

One thing though - key to our success is a good partnership - I'm a great navigator and really enjoy planning an interesting route and keeping us on track. My husband is a confident driver and so these are the roles we usually assume and it works well for us. We have used trains for parts of our trip and if I were only interested in big cities I would consider using only trains, but for now we are young and able enough to manage driving in Europe and really enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Karen
Atlanta, USA Mon 04/24/2006

car for 6 people
Our family of 4 adults and 2 kids will be travelling by car in the summer.Our luggage are all carry-on size.We want a car instead of a van.Has anyone rented a car(seden/stationwagon) that has capacity for 6 people.
Sally A
Vancouver, BC Canada Mon 04/24/2006

re: Amboise
There are some vintners in the Loire Valley, but they are not the basis of the area's fame. It is chateaux country--usually called Chateaux de la Loire or Pays de la Loire on the maps--and it is where you will hear the purest French spoken in all of France. Amboise, which has its own famous home and castles, is in the heart of the chateaux region---there is a fine chateau at Chenonceau (the town and adjacent chateau are spelled differently) Chinon, Rideau, Blois, etc. all the way to Chartres. There are also many abbeys from the middle ages that pre-date the fortresses and even some Mergovian crypts at Saint Mesmin for example. Hop on over to Vouvray, just outside of Tours a bit, if your heart is set on visiting a vintner. They make some wonderfully elegant blancs there.
hg
USA Mon 04/24/2006

accomodations for extended family group
There should be lots of "vacation apartments" (Ferienwohnungen) available on the middle Rhein. Go to www.st-goar.de or www.bacharach.de and look under Unterkünfte for Ferienwohnungen. Most will have email addresses for reservations. Ferienwohnungen are less expensive per person compared to hotel rooms, but there will be a cleaning fee at the end of your stay. You will probably not have breakfast along with your room, but there will be a kitchen area, so you can fix your own.
<email>
USA Sun 04/23/2006

Vienna Metro
There will be no need for a taxi. There is a train connection from West Bahnhof to the South Bahnhof every couple of minutes. The trip takes less than 20 minutes.

Go to www.vor.at and click on Fahrplan. Fill in Gemeinde as Wien (2 Pl), and Haltestelle as Westbahnhof and Südbahnhof (to get the ü, hold down the cntl key and type 0252 on the Numpad). Change the date and time and click Anfordern. The site will show the connections; the fare is €1,50. Most of the connections use the U-bahn for part ot the trip. Of the displayed "Fahrt"s, the ones with no transfers (umsteigen) are the No. 18 "Schlacht-haus-gasse" (Slaughterhouse lane) streetcar. The streetcar leaves from in front of the Westbahnhof.

If you click on "Fahrtstrecke (pdf)" under the listing of the connection, you will get a pdf file showing the route the streetcar takes.
<email>
USA Sun 04/23/2006

Linnea:
I have been on vacation in Europe four times. My favorite country for sightseeing was Germany. And Germany has excellent public transportation. And I think it is wonderful that you will be with your German family members there. I don't know of any apartments for rent. But why not go to an ordinary hotel ? At St. Goar I was at Hotel Hauser. Located at Heerstrasse 77. It is old but the rooms are large. Some rooms have private bathroom. Breakfast included in dining room that is small but plesasant. An easy walk to it from the St. Goar train station. Another person posting messages at this webpage, he visited that part of the Rhine River many times, and he was a resident in that region of Germany for two years, said the Hotel Hauser is better than the affordable hotels in Bacharach. (At Bacharach Hotel Kranenturm has noise from trains at night). Bacharach is my favorite town at the Rhine river, and I think it is a good choice for a base from which to explore the Rhine River. But, persons sleeping in a hotel at St. Goar can easily begin their days by riding on a train to Bacharach, or other town. And at the end of a day of sightseing return by train to St. Goar. One day: ride on boat on Rhine river from Bacharach to St. Goar. Another day: ride on boat on Rhine river from Bacharach to Bingen, and ride on ferry across river to Rudesheim to ride on chair lift up the hill to the Niederwald monument for one of the best views of the Rhine river. Ride ferry back to Bingen, and train to St. Goar. And a place for a beautiful view of trees on hills is in the Marksburg castle at Braubach (near Koblenz). A rental car is not needed for being a tourist at the Rhine river (Bingen to Koblenz). For more of my recommendations for planning a trip at the Rhine river, send E-mail to me. < MUSEDAY@YAHOO.COM
Ken <email>
Missouri USA Sun 04/23/2006

France
We are going to France next weekend. We plan to rent a car and spend 2 nights in Amboise (near Tours). We would like to visit some local wineries, taste wine, and talk to winemakers. Any suggestions? How about restaurants or interesting chateaus? We will be in Paris for 2 days, any suggestions on current exhibitions at any of the museums or interesting new restaurants - we are staying on Ile St. Louis in the 4th arrondissement.
Jonathan <email>
USA Sun 04/23/2006

accomodations for extended family group
We (family of four) will be meeting extended family (3 people: grandma, aunt, and niece) in Frankfurt. We hope to find a place to stay in some scenic town on the Rhine. I don't know what kind of accomodations we can find apart from ordinary hotel rooms or B & B's that are suitable for a group. An apartment with 2 or more bedrooms? Is such a thing rentable in that area? Five of us have not met before: I don't think we all want to share the same room! None of us speak German either. What should we ask for? We would probably plan to stay in the same place about a week: I don't know how "portable" Grandma is! I would plan on taking the "kids" (15, 17, and 18 years old)on day trips by train to see various sites.
Linnea
Buffalo Grove, IL USA Sun 04/23/2006

Cinque Terre
Can someone recommend a place to stay in Vernazza? Thanks! Shelly
Shelly <email>
Sacramento, CA USA Sun 04/23/2006

car vs train in France
If you have checked all your train schedules and it works for your itinerary I suggest stay with train.Alot more relaxed. or as an option, certainly no car in Paris is needed then train directly to Lyon, pick up a car when you leave Lyon then drive around Provence as Arles can be part of your base for Provence.Parking in Arles is easier if you stay near river ck Rick Steves sugg for places to stay.Then on to Annecy & Chamonix w/ car is easy also. We did the Arles, Provence to Chamonix by car then trained it back to Paris.It is really just whether driving is too stressful for you or not.
Ca USA Sun 04/23/2006

Car vs. train
Hello, I have read all of the posts/articles regarding the positives and negatives for travelling both by train and car in Europe and now need some advice. I will be spending approx 2.5 weeks with my girlfriend in France in late August/early September. After about a week in Paris, we have plans to see Lyon, Arles, Nice, Annecy/Chamonix, and Strasbourg. The price difference between a car and rail passes is negligible, so I'm wondering what others recommend based on use of time and the travelling experience. Should I rent a car on our way out of Paris, or just use the rail system to get around the country? I am wary of the time/worry of parking the car in larger cities like Lyon and Nice, but would also enjoy the freedom/experience of seeing the countryside. Suggestions?
James
San Diego, CA USA Sun 04/23/2006

Day Pack for travel.
I'd look for one that has water bottle pockets on the side. It's important to have water with you during travel. it's not that great of an idea to have to put that bottle inside the pack with your camera.

High Sierra makes a ton of different style daypack that offer water bottle pockets, and organizer panel inside for pens and glasses. Most have a pocket for your ipod/sunglasses that is lined so it won't scratch your precious technology or glasses. They also all have padded backs for comfort and great padded shoulder straps.

I've used the Fuel and the Swerve on European trips. I'd highly recommend these two styles. Not too big, but plenty of room for camera stuff, a guide book, water on the outside. Room for a rain jacket and lunch too! I bought mine on line at ebags.com, but I know you can also go to their website at www.hssc.com and find a link to online dealers!
USA Sun 04/23/2006

DAY PACK ADVICE
With the requirements you mention, seems like your best move would be to go to a travel store and examine back packs to be sure the one you buy fits your needs.
USA Sun 04/23/2006

Day Packs
I haven't purchased it yet, but I have seen the Civita Day Pack in a store. I think it's a nice size, and very lightweight.

If you're looking for something that would hold more, the Veloce Shoulder Bag can be worn as a shoulder bag, a backpack, or carried by the hand grip; it's also expandable.
USA Sun 04/23/2006

CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Sounds like you would prefer Rothenburg. Charm and quaintness all over the place.
TYE R.
TULSA, USA Sun 04/23/2006

METRO
The fastest route is by subway, but depending on the time you get to the station and how long you have to wait for a train, it might be faster by taxi. It will vary by time of day and frequency of trains.
USA Sun 04/23/2006

Midtown Barcelona cheap and clean
Anybody have any ideas on where to stayin Barcelona that has cheap clean single rooms? Looking to stay in Midtown.
patrick <email>
minneapolis, mn USA Sun 04/23/2006

Early departure from Munich/where to stay?
We recently stayed at the Hotel zur Gred in Freising, which is just outside the Munich Airport. It was less than 10 min walk to the train station and less than 15 min by taxi (17 euros) to the airport. There is also a deicated bus from the train station to the airport for about 2 euros.

Freising is a nice little Bavarian town and we liked the Hotel zur Gred. Good send off from Germany.

Regards, Gary
Gary
Salt Lake City, UT USA Sun 04/23/2006

Civita Daypack
I have the Civita daypack in black. As others have said, this pack is very roomy and squashes down to nothing if you need to pack it away empty. The black microfiber is very nice looking - a nice change from the more rugged, sporty looking packs.
Cynthia
Seattle, USA Sun 04/23/2006

Milan/Malpensa to Cinque Terre
Check out: www. trenitalia.it

The short answer: Yes, you will have to go through Milano Centrale.

I used: MALPENSA AEROPORTO to VERNAZZA

It looks like you'll have a minumum of 3 train changes. Better call your hotel and tell them you're going to be there late
USA Sun 04/23/2006

Day Pack
I have also used the RS day pack. It holds a lot of "stuff" Another Jeff this one fm NJ
Jeff
NJ USA Sun 04/23/2006

Daypack advice
I got a daypack made by Eagle Creek that I like a lot. It has a very sturdy hip belt that can be tucked away. I was surprised how much I could fit into it since it looks fairly small. It has a place to lock the zipper of the large compartment too.
John
Berkeley, CA USA Sun 04/23/2006

Early departure from Munich/where to stay?
Munich airport departure in the morning of June 13 and 14. Where should we stay to most easily get to the airport for an early morning flight? Also some issue of rooms not available due to World Cup Soccer...
Robert <email>
Brigham, Utah USA Sun 04/23/2006

Milan/Malpensa to Cinque Terre
Can I get a train to go directly from the Milan/Malpensa airport to Cinque Terre? Or, do I have to go from Malpensa to Milan main station? (That's gonna slow me up.) Arrive at Malpensa at 1:45PM and have reservation in Cinque Terre that night.
Robert <email>
Brigham, Utah USA Sun 04/23/2006

Reservations in Normandy
There are very few hotels in Arromanches(waterfront) but I can suggest a great place to stay if you are willing to drive about 4 miles down the road toward the ancient town of Creully. The "Ferme de La Rançonnière" is a wonderful and reasonable place to stay. It is not for those seeking swinging night life but is certainly a great spot to relax after a busy and probably emotional day of sight seeing. Check their web site www.ranconniere.com. We stayed in May of 2005, and the rate including fantastic dinner (manditory that you dine there but it is dress casual) and a wonderful breakfast. In 2005 we paid €56 each. It ended up being probably the most reasonable and best place we stayed in the area. If you would travel about another mile on the same road to the town of Creully, the Hostellerie Saint Martin is highly regarded and the town is charming. Either place, I expect, would respond to your e-mail. They are well worth the 5 minute drive from Arromanches, away from the tourist busses. The "Ferme" is an old restored farm, parts dating from the 13th century. Very current in comforts and they speak English. Spotless too! Have a great trip, when are you going?
Pat
MA USA Sun 04/23/2006

Museum for Alfa Romeo ?
Hello, We're all set to go to Italy next month, and we were wondering if anyone know if there are tours or perhaps a museum available at the Alfa Romeo factory. (We went to the museum at Daimler Benz in Germany a few years ago and found it very enjoyable, a good break from the museums.) Is there something to see at Alfa Romeo, or perhaps Bianchi ?
Teresa <email>
California USA Sun 04/23/2006

Vienna Metro
Bahn.de shows a 17 min streetcar ride between Vienna Westbf and Vienna Südbf.
<email>
USA Sun 04/23/2006

Daypack Advice
I have been very pleased with my RS Civita daypack. As advertised, it is very spacious yet very compact when not in us.
Jeff
USA Sun 04/23/2006

metro
what is the fastest route to get from vienna westbahnhof to vienna sudbahnhof?
andy <email>
tor, ont can Sun 04/23/2006

Christmas Markets
I plan to go to Germany in early December to a Christmas Market--considering Nuremburg. Are they all very similar? I prefer going to a smaller city--maybe a town that would have lots of charm and quaintness like Bruges has.
Jenny
USA Sun 04/23/2006

RESERVATIONS IN NORMANDY
Best to write the email in French, if you can. In five years I have never had a problem getting responses from hotels when I wrote in their language. Don't bother calling if it is a 2 star or less hotel. There is no guarentee that there will be anyone at the desk to take the call in English.
USA Sun 04/23/2006

Amsterdam for a family of six
We are a family of 6 with kid ages 8 to 15. We are staying in Amsterdam for 2 nights in July and I was wondering if anybody had a suggestion for sleeping. We'd like a place where we wouldn't have to split up into separate rooms. Any apartment suggestions or guest houses that would suit us? We were also considering staying in Haarlem and just visiting Amsterdam during the day. It's tough to travel with 6 and book things over the web. Have any families had good luck lately? Thanks!
Deirdre
CT USA Sun 04/23/2006

Day Pack advice
Does anyone have a favorite daypack to recommend? I've looked at the packs on Rick's site and they all look good. We need to carry a camera, a small video camera, book, water bottle, etc. (and still will need room for picnic supplies) but don't want a big backpack. Thanks-
Connie <email>
USA Sun 04/23/2006

PRAGUE ACCOMMODATION.
Take a look at the following link. The maps are informative. http://www.a-prague.com/
<email>
UK Sun 04/23/2006

RE: European Walkie Talkies
I assume you're referring to stand-alone walkie-talkies, and not the commercial GMRS "walkie-talkies."

In the US we have FRS, or Family Radio Service, a non-licensed, low power, free service. In Europe, they have PMR446, which is similar, but uses different frequencies. Since they're on different frequencies, FRS isn't legal in Europe, and PMR446 isn't legal here. Even the older CB walkie-talkies use different standards. So you’re not likely to find European equipment for sale in the US.

You could get an amateur radio license and legally communicate in many countries around the world, with equipment you can purchase in the US. (For more info on that, go to: www.arrl.org ) 73 (Ham slang for best wishes)
Jason
Reno, NV USA Sun 04/23/2006

European Walkie-Talkies
Has anyone been able to purchase walkie-talkies that work in Europe here in the US from a US company? I tried all over the internet and "googled it" but only found UK sites.
Charlie <email>
Hololulu, HI USA Sat 04/22/2006

Athens to Vienna
you can take a Europe by Air flight for $99US from Athens to Munich - check their web site (www.europebyair.com)
Judy <email>
Adelaide, SA Aust Sat 04/22/2006

most scenic route
We are traveling with our grandaughters fron Salzburg to Lake Garda in June. We will be traveling by train. Does anyone have any ideas on the most scenic route.
Kathleen <email>
Kneeland,, Ca USA Sat 04/22/2006

Normandy Hotel
Barry, The hotel to stay in is the Hotel de la Marine in Arromanches. It is right on the beach and central to everything. The second night we were there last September, a Rick Steves tour group was also staying at the hotel.

They speak perfect English, so call them at 33 2 31 22 34 19. I also saw them listed on Tripadvisor.com

If you need a hotel in Bayeux, the Churchill is great and its run by an English couple. If you need more info, just ask.

Bill
Bill
NY USA Sat 04/22/2006

RESERVATION
Go to www.bahn.de, the German national rail site, which has timetables for most of Europe. If a reservation is required on a time and route you've chosen, you'll see a red circle with an "R" in it next to letters indicating the type of train, all under the "Products" column.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 04/22/2006

booking a hotel--Barry
Many French hotels use a booking service. Sometimes, it is though a chain of which a hotel is a member. Often they book up to about 2 months in advance and do not take bookings beyond that because the reservation program is not set to go futher. This is likely what you came upon, so don't give up. The hotel, if it has its own web site, may have a longer window.
USA Sat 04/22/2006

RESERVATIONS IN NORMANDY
Barry: I read more comments such as yours lately. Many hotels will not respond to emails.

Best to use the tollfree phone number if you can locate one. Otherwise use the international long distance service and phone the hotel. When you do, ask for someone who speaks English

Ask for written confirmation on any reservation you make so you will have something in hand to show the clerk when you check in.
tx USA Sat 04/22/2006

RESERVATIONS
HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED TRAIN RESERVATIONS? CERTAIN COUNTRY WEBSITES ARE SOME TIMES CONTRADICTORY ABOUT THIS.
ANDY <email>
TORONTO, ONT CAN Sat 04/22/2006

Reservations in Normandy
Does anyone have anysuggestions on how to book a hotel in Normandy, specifically Arromanches. I have emailed at least 5 hotels, some more than once and have only received one reply. I have used the email address supplied and the "booking" form as well. Any suggestions?
Barry Seid <email>
Pollock Pines, CA USA Sat 04/22/2006

Paris goodies
Diane, I found something from Harvey posted 5/05/2005 about Paris goodies. Is this what you were looking for? Seems he had a longer post, maybe near this one. He was "Harvey G of Park Forest, Il if that helps.
USA Sat 04/22/2006

Flying out of Munich
It's advised to be at the airport at least 2 hours prior to an international flight. Munich is a fairly big airport. You have to check bags and get to the terminal. Unless you are familiar with the airport, I'd plan on at least the 2 hours...or maybe 1:45 hours.
USA Sat 04/22/2006

Flying out of Munich
Do we need to be at the Munich airport two hours early for a Lufthansa flight to the U.S.? We'll be staying in Freising the night before and would really like to see a little of that town and old cathedral before leaving for an 11:30 a.m. flight.
Pearl
Greensboro, NC USA Sat 04/22/2006

USA to Ireland Travel
For the definitive word, call Continental. However, since you are booked all the way from BMI to Shannon, your lugggage should be checked through. And I also expect that you won't have to go through security when you change planes, but that's only a guess since I'm not familiar with the Newark airport.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 04/22/2006

USA to Ireland travel
Hello : My wife and I will be traveling from MD (BWI airport) to Shannon, Ireland. We must change planes in Newark, NJ. I'm a little nervoous about making sure that our luggage gets to Ireland when we do. Will we have to go to baggage claim in Newark and pick up our luggage or will it follow us and be transferred to the plane we take to Ireland? Also, since we're leaving from a domestic terminal in BWI, will we land in a domestic terminal in Newark and then have to catch the next flight at the international terminal - meaning that we go through security again as well as customs? We're traveling on Continental. Thanks for the help.
Mike <email>
Baltimore, MD USA Sat 04/22/2006

Parma Factory Tours for Austin, TX
Our agritruristo in Modena requests their Parmasean Cheese tours through the Consorzio of Parmigiano Reggiano - specifically for a tour with Caseficio Nuovo Coop Casearia of Castelfranco Emilia. You can try to email them at sezionemo@parmigiano-reggiano.it. They also recommended that you contact your lodging for help booking a tour.
<email>
USA Sat 04/22/2006

the goodies list for Paris
About a year ago but not more than two years ago someone gave a long list of goodies you can get in the bakeries in Paris. His wife added a posting giving some more information. He mentioned a cheese and wine list with his favorites. I never saw that list and I did not write down the pastries. As I remember, this was a reply to a young woman in Texas, maybe Houston, who was going to Paris and live on goodies for two weeks and asked how much it would cost. Do any of you out there know who the guy was and if there is a e mail address?
Diane
Mesa, USA Sat 04/22/2006

Gemut.com
My wife and I used Gemut for our car rental in 2004. Not only did they give the best rate but their customer service is outstanding. When I was overcharged for a portion of my credit card bill by the car rental company I contacted Bob Bestor at gemut and he got my refund for the overcharge. I would not hesitate to use them. I will defintely use them on our next trip.
Lane
Mansfield, GA USA Fri 04/21/2006

Zurich Hotel
Could someone recommend a hotel in downtown that is not expensive ( I know Zurich is pricey) & not listed in Rick's guide? Just needs to be clean & relatively quiet, not far from train station? Thank you
Cathie
St. Paul, MN USA Fri 04/21/2006

Heathrow Customs
You WILL go through customs at Heathrow. You just won't notice it. If you go through the green line, you can just walk out without having to talk to anyone. Just don't look guilty or they'll pull you aside for inspection.

Having said that, the immigration part (which comes before customs) can take a long, long, time depending on how many hundreds of other passengers arrive at the same time you do.
Tony
San Jose, CA USA Fri 04/21/2006

gemut.com
They have been around for a long and are very much a quality outfit. They publish a newsletter on travel in the countries mentioned and have more recently added additional services. I rented from them in Germany about 5 years ago with absolutely no problems. The car was from Sixt/Budget and the price was better than I could have gotten directly.
Jeff
USA Fri 04/21/2006

Car Rental - Germany
I don't know anything about gemut.com. However, I do know that AutoEurope promises to either match or beat a price you find on your own. If you're uncertain about gemut.com, you still could see if AutoEurope will match their price.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 04/21/2006

Car Rental - Germany
I currently have a rental car reservation for Germany through AutoEurope. I was researching other preparations and came across another research site for Austria, Germany and Switzerland called www.gemut.com which claimed to offer the lowest guaranteed prices on car rentals in these countries so I requested a reservation. The quote I received was over $100.00 cheaper for the 5 days we will need it and instead of a $12.00 per day car seat rental, it's a $5.00 per day charge. Needless to say, if it checks out, I'll be changing my reservation. Does anyone have any experience with this site? It certainly looks legitimate, but I feel the need to check them out first.
Cathy
MN USA Fri 04/21/2006

Heathrow Customs
Although it can go a bit faster, allow at least an hour to go through immigration/passport control and to retrieve your luggage at LHR. (You don't go through customs when you enter the UK, but you will when you return to the US.)
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 04/21/2006

Heathrow Customs
Customs is a breeze at Heathrow. You go through Passport Control, which is very simple (as long as your papers are in order.) The immigration clerk stamps your passport, you walk through a set of doors to the baggage carousel, collect your luggage and walk out. There are two doors: a red door if you have goods to declare, and a green door if you have nothing to declare, and you're on your way. That's it. However, be very sure that you are not bringing in any banned goods, and that if you do need to make a customs declaration, go through the red door and do what you need to do. Occasionally, customs officers will stop and check someone at random just to make certain that the folks are being honest. Aside from that, it's easy.
Michael <email>
Edmonton, Canada Fri 04/21/2006

Heathrow Customs
Just out of curiosity, has anyone timed how long it took them to get through Heathrow customs and retrieve their luggage on a flight from the U.S.?
Rebecca
Daly City, CA USA Fri 04/21/2006

PARIS TRANSPORT
Alexandra. Go to http://www.sncf.fr/indexe.htm and click on "Transilien." This is the rail service covering Paris and suburbs. Enter in your origin, destination, and date, and you can find whether there's a train available. To check out a combination of more than just rail, visit http://www.ratp.info/informer/anglais/index.php. This covers the RER, subway, bus, etc.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Fri 04/21/2006

PARIS TRANSPORT
The internet says the following: Vincennes ....

Near Paris 10-15 minutes from the centre of Paris ... Metro station: Château de Vincennes / line M 1 .... RER station: Vincennes .
USA Fri 04/21/2006

Railpass validation
I just received my railpasses for my trip to Germany. In my excitment I filled in the passport numbers on the first page. I didn't fill in any dates. Am I in trouble or will they still validate the passes.

(ed. note: You should be fine when you validate in Europe, as long as you do not have the dates written in. In case of any increased excitement as your trip nears, please put your pass in your moneybelt and hide it.)
Garrett
Denver, CO USA Fri 04/21/2006

PARIS TRANSPORT
Alexandra: If you don’t get an answer on this page, do a google search for “rail service Vincennes Paris.” Or you might try bus service.

You should find a schedule listing the last train every day. It goes without saying you should avoid a taxi fare.
USA Fri 04/21/2006

re: Oslo in July
The Vigeland sculpture park is fabulous! Info is in RS book.
Kristin
Bellevue, WA USA Fri 04/21/2006

Jasmine - Railpass
For the number of trips you'll be taking and the distances you'll be traveling, a France-Spain railpass could be a good choice. Just be aware that with a pass you'll still have to pay a reservation fee for trains requiring reservations and a supplement for sleeping accomodations on night trains. And you'll need to make reervatons for night trains ASAP or all space may be sold. Point-to-point tickets in France for longer trips can be cheaper if booked online well in advance to take advantage of discount seats, but for your relatively short trips within France you'll probably do just as well buying them when you get there. I just checked eurostar.com and found that the standard fare cheap seats for Paris-London & return are gone for June 2 & 3. But if you decide to take a daytrip to London, a pass will save you a fair amount of money. There is a passholder fare of $75 each way, but seats are limited. Call RailEurope (1-888-382-7245) and ask if passholder seats are available on the Eurostar for your travel dates before buying a pass.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 04/21/2006

Paris Transport
My family of four will finish up a night tour of Paris around 11pm and need to get back to our apartment in Vincennes. Would taxi or car service be better/more reasonable?
Alexandra Martella <email>
Longmont, CO USA Fri 04/21/2006

finding flights
Sarah,

Try Easy Jet:

Athens > Gatwick > Toulouse

2hours > 3/12 hr layover > 3 hours

The cheapest I saw was about 300 Euro with tax

Book online in advance. If your dates are flexible, use the calendar feature to show the cheapest flights. There was a huge difference depending on the day-Mon was 120E and Wed was 35E
USA Fri 04/21/2006

Orbitz maps problems
While looking at Prague hotel listings on Orbitz, I noticed that it showed the same spot on the map for half the hotels on there-- they can't ALL be located at the same intersection (just behind the National Museum), especially when the addresses have different zip codes! When I searched further online, I found that one of the hotels is actually way out in a remote suburb, nowhere near the mark on Orbitz's Mapquest map. Are they often so unreliable?
Fiona
NYC Thu 04/20/2006

Sarah
I found some Athens-Vienna flights on www.air-gorilla.com
Jeff
USA Thu 04/20/2006

finding flights
Does anyone have ideas what airlines I could use to get from Athens to Toulouse area of France, or from AThens to Vienna/Linz? I have not had much luck and am running out of time before my trip, so please advise! Sarah TX USA 04/19/2006
Sarah
TX USA Thu 04/20/2006

Beads in Czech Republic
I am an avid beader & know that many beautiful beads are crafted in the Czech Republic. Does anyone out there know of bead sources in the areas of Prague or Cesky Krumlov? Thanks!
Holly <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Thu 04/20/2006

Overnight trains
www.seat61.com has fairly comprehensive pages outlining all the different sleeping options (though other posters have done a great job, too!)
Ashley <email>
TN USA Thu 04/20/2006

Reservations
Chrismo,

nice, comprehensive dissertation regarding reservations. I have only one disagreement. Couchettes (called Liegewagen in German) are a particular type of sleeping accommodations with simple bunks, minimal bedding, and WC and wash facilities are at the end of the car. Passengers are expected to sleep in their clothes, and genders may be mixed. They generally come in 4 and 6 passenger configurations. In France they are referred to as 1st and 2nd class couchettes, respectively. The supplement charge is the same but they require a 1st or 2nd class ticket. On most German night trains, only a 2nd class ticket is required, but the supplement for a 4 person couchette costs more. A very few trains in Germany have a two person couchette. I have never seen a single couchette (except for disabled people with valid identification).

Full sleepers (called Schlafwagen in Germany), on the other hand, have normal beds, with full bed linen, and either a wash basin (Economy) or shower and toilet (Deluxe). Compartments are designated separately for men or women, unless you book the entire compartment. Double compartments can be had with a 2nd class ticket. Single compartments require a 1st class ticket.

So, the poster asked about a single couchette. There are not single accommodation of the couchette class, but there are single sleepers.
<email>
USA Thu 04/20/2006

Using Skype in Europe
Because Skype requires you to download a "softphone" with your account info to your home computer, you can't access it on another computer, unless you download and install the softphone again, and most internet cafes don't let you do that. If you have a laptop or a PDA with the softphone on it, you can access Skype if you can find a wireless hotspot.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 04/20/2006

Useing Skype in Europe
I have a Skpe account, does anyone know if I can access it at an intercafe in Europe.? if so do I need to take headset ? thank you for your help.
Jean <email>
Riverside, CA USA Thu 04/20/2006

K Cheung in Canada--Renting a van
I think you're going to be hard pressed to find a van. We had really good luck with www.funcar.at while we lived in Vienna--if you're going to be in Vienna. Not a big chain, they rent not so new cars (but still in good condition), and they're really cheap. I know we were able to get a station wagon several times, and they have vans on their site.

As for safety, as a woman, I've been to Poland, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, and Bosnia Herzegovina, and never had any problems. I don't even take any additional precautions.

You do need to watch traffic laws, though--for instance in Croatia you have to have your headlights on during the day--we got a ticket for that one in Bosnia. You also need those highway stickers in some of those places--at least Hungary.
Jessica <email>
Morocco, in USA Thu 04/20/2006

Night Train: Krakow to Prague
I've never had to get off the train at the border crossing between the two.
Jessica
Morocco, IN USA Thu 04/20/2006

Night Train: Krakow to Prague
If you go to www.bahn.de, the German national rail site which has timetables for most of Europe, you will see that you do NOT change trains and that you will cross the border around 01:00. I think you will hear a knock on the door and then you will simply need to show your passport to the conductor without having to leave your compartment (but I'm guessing here). (ed. note: Often you will give your passport to the conductor upon boarding and they will handle the border crossings without waking you)
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 04/20/2006

Night train, Krakow to Prague
We're taking the night train from Krakow to Prague next month & were fortunate to be able to book a private cabin, with a door we can lock. I have been told that we will be have to wake up (1:00 am?) for the border crossing. Can anyone verify? Will we have to leave our compartment for passport control? Does anyone know if we stay on the same train, or will we have to change trains?

We booked the tickets through RailEurope, who was less than helpful -- when we could finally get in touch with someone -- & they didn't have answers to my questions. Thanks!
Holly <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Thu 04/20/2006

TICKETS
Your question is tough to answer,what time of year are you travelling,for how long ? You may want to try flying into Birmingham or Manchester, aerlingus flies out of Boston and JFK TO Dublin from there they fly all over the continent with very reasonable deals.Then you may want to look at travelocity,orbitz,priceline,etc.,but use them just to get an idea and then use the air carriers website for the best option.You should look at the length of flite and how many transfers a 20 hour flite isnt worth it to me to save a $100.00 or so if i can get there in ten hope this helps goodluck.
John
Cincinnati, USA Thu 04/20/2006

walkie talkies
Why American walkie talkies can't be used in Europe and vice-versa.

http://www.walkie-talkie-radio.co.uk/walkie-talkie-international-issues.htm
tom
summerville, sc USA Thu 04/20/2006

Lap top in hotel room
KML - last year we stayed in 11 hotels in 6 countries in Europe - including Paris - and I locked my laptop in my hand luggage when I left it in the hotel. I never carried it with me till we were moving on. I had no problem. These were hotels, not hostels, so our rooms were locked also. The hotels were 50% from RS books and the others of similar quality. Hope this helps.
Iain
Edmonton, AB Canada Thu 04/20/2006

Civita di Bagnoregio
The best way to get there from Rome would be to take the train to Orvieto and then catch the bus from there to Bangoregio. Civita is about a mile from where the bus drops you. All of the details are in the RS Italy 2006 book.
Jeff
USA Thu 04/20/2006

Re: Audrey, Tickets
Between the history of this board and the "Flying to Europe" board you can find lots of sites listed for tickets. No one is truly the cheapest, that tends to be a little more hit and miss. I like to start with Travelocity's "flexible dates" option, that shows what days are cheapest to fly, what specials might be out there, and allows some comparisions between airports. From there, once I have some good dates, I hit the consolidators and check on them, www.airgorilla.com and www.airlineconsolidator.com are two I have used. There are also some search engines like airfare.com and bookingbuddy.com that will look at multiple sites and return prices. As for airports, for international flights, the Mega-airports also happen to be the gateways where the deals usually are, but Milan is better than Rome or Venice for price, Brussels can be economical, I love to fly into Amsterdam more than any other airport, UK, Heathrow is probably the best deal unless you are further north like Manchester.
Paul <email>
IA USA Thu 04/20/2006

TICKETS
Can anyone tell me where (online) to find the cheapest tickets! And if not, can anyone tell me the lesser expensive Airports to fly into instead of the HUGE MEGA-PORTS, flying into Italy/UK/ or France. thanks
audrey
va USA Thu 04/20/2006

Laptop in hotel room
I am going to Paris and I want to take my laptop, but not lug it around all day while sightseeing. In general, is it relatively safe to leave something of value in a hotel room there?
KML <email>
New Iberia, USA Thu 04/20/2006

Reservations
Regarding reservations, "day" trains (as opposed to night trains) generally fall into three categories: Trains where reservations are not possible: This is typically local or regional trains. You just board the train with a valid ticket or railpass, and take whatever seat is free. If all seats are taken, you'll have to stand! Trains where reservations are possible, but not required: This is typically intercity train and other long distance trains. If you want peace in mind, you can chose to reserve a seat on a specific train. For a nominal fee (3-5€) you get a reservation for a specific assigned seat. At time of reservation at the station, you will be able to choose between window and aisle seat, smoker or non-smoker or even a specific seat number. You get a reservation card (which looks like a ticket) with car and seat number printed on it. If you choose not to reserve, you just board the train and take any vacant unreserved seat. In some trains, there is an unreserved section to ensure that there is always some room for travellers without reservations, in other trains, all seats can be reserved and the train can thus be entirely booked. Even if a train is completely booked, you can travel, but you will have to stand. A note: since reservation fees are quite low, many people reserve for more than one train e.g. in case a meeting is late and thus don't show up for reservations. Don't be shy of hunting for these reserved but not occupied seats if you don't have a reservation and the train is full. Normally if a reserved seat is not claimed within a certain time frame (10-15 minutes) the reservation is lost and the seat is considered vacant. These rules can differ from country to country. Trains where reservations are required: Typically high-speed trains. You need both ticket or pass and reservation before boarding. The reservation will contain an assigned seat. If you board without reservation, you might be able to ride anyway, but only if you ask the conductor if the train has empty seats. You will still have to pay the reservation fee and often also an on-board ticketing fee directly to the conductor. (This procedure is not encouraged or practised by all railways, since it slows down train operations and is complicated for the staff, therefore, always buy a reservation when required). Regarding night accomodation, reservation is always required, and the additional price of the accomodation is included in the reservation fee, therefore reservation of sleepers and couchettes is more expensive and price depends on type of accomodation. There are single couchettes available in night trains, but they require first class ticket (or railpass) and the "single couchette" reservation, which is of course the most expensive. In practice, it's not a one-bed couchette, but often single occupancy of a double couchette, but by buying the "single couchettte" reservation, you reserve the entire room, and the upper bunk will normally be folded up against the wall (or if not, you can ask the conductor to do it).
Chrismo
Denmark Thu 04/20/2006

NORWAY : Geirangerfjord
I am planning a trip to Norway. How do I go to Geiranger at the Geirangerfjord from Oslo ? I want to do a combination of flying, and bus. (Fly from Oslo to Trondheim ? or fly to Alesund ?). I read that 600,000 people go to Geiranger each year, so I guess the public transportation routes are well established, for going to Geiranger. I do not want to rent a car. And I can not afford to ride in a helicopter. Your reply could be sent to me via E-mail < MUSEDAY@YAHOO.COM
Ken <email>
Missouri USA Thu 04/20/2006

Jasmine-----Railpasses
Buy the rail pass in the US. Buy point to point tickets abroad. If you have to have a supplement to the ticket, get it abroad. Should you buy a pass? Check this site under Railpasses. There are some for service that crosses borders. Be aware that some passes cover periods such as a month and others that give a specified number of days and also those that link with auto rental.
USA Thu 04/20/2006

Railpass or Not?
I will be traveling to France and Spain from May 27th-June 13th. So far my itinery is as scheduled: May 27-31st Paris-sightseeing May 31-June 2 Giverncy,Normandy, St. Michel June 2-3 paris again, or should I take a day trip to London? any suggestions? June 4- Overnight train to Madrid June 6- Madrid to Toledo June 8- Madrid to Seville June 12- Seville to Madrid Based on my itinerary, do you suggest buying a railpass or puchase point ot point tickets? Should I buy the tickets online or wait until I get there? Please help. Thanks, Jas
Jasmine
Sacramento, CA USA Wed 04/19/2006

Train Reservations
Rail passes pay for the use of the rails, but special accommodations, such as for sleeping, are more expensive and require the payment of a supplement. Of course, when you pay for an accommodation on a night train, it is reserved for you, and, therefore, referred to as a "reservation".

Certain "premium trains", such as Thalys, or EuroStar in Italy, also require payment of a supplement on top of the rail pass. Other trains, such as, I think, TGV, require seat reservations, but it is a nominal charge. Lastly, a lot of express train, ICEs in Germany, for instance, can be reserved, if you want to, for a nominal fee, to assure a seat, but it is not required.

Night trains usually have an assortment of acccommodations, from 6 and 4 person couchettes, which are bunks in which you are expected to stay dressed, and sleepers, which are more like beds. Sleepers come in 1 and 2 person versions, and sometimes 3 person. Of course, the better the accommodation, and the fewer roommates, the higher the cost.

Before you commit to a railpass, check out how you will get reservations, and for how much. Sometimes these are difficult to find.
<email>
USA Wed 04/19/2006

General Question About Train Reservations
When people speak of needing to make reservations for certain trains (Euronite, TGV, etc.) are they speaking in the American sense of needing to reserve a space that will sell out, or is it more of an administrative detail that can be done (shortly) before embarkation?

I'm looking at a rail-pass for the flexibility, but there are a few times I may want a reservation-only trip, but don't want to have to plan too far ahead.

Also, are there single-traveller "couchettes" available? Or, if I want to be alone, must I purcahse 2 spaces? :)

Thanks.
Jason <email>
Boulder, CO USA Wed 04/19/2006

How do I get to Civita Di Bagnoregio?
I'm leaving in a few days for a 7 week trip, and I'm trying to plan my routes and method of transportation. I'm trying to find out how to get from ROME TO CIVITA DI BAGNOREGIO, then from CIVITA TO RIOMAGGIORE. It doesn't seem as though TrenItalia has a route to Civita. If anyone can help me out asap, it is greatly appreciated.
Haley <email>
Brantford, ON CAN Wed 04/19/2006

Oslo in July?
My husband and I will be in Oslo in July. First trip there in almost 20 years. Does anyone have suggesstions for gardens and markets to see? Also we hope to do some day trips and I would love to know if anyone has done the silver mine that is nearby or has other recommendations.
Toni Yates
Charlotte, NC USA Wed 04/19/2006

Parma Factory Tours
Does anyone have information about how to tour a parmesan cheese factory and/or the Barilla pasta factory in Parma, Italy? I have been online to cheese websites and tours are listed as possibilities, but when I look for details, there are none that have been useful. Any suggestions/advice from those who have toured would be appreciated?
Austin, TX USA Wed 04/19/2006

Restaurant near Siena
Has any one tried Il Pozzo Restaurant in Monteriggioni just north of Siena?
Dennis D
Chicago, Il USA Wed 04/19/2006

Walkie Talkies
American walkie talkies will work in europe, but they are illegal. By using them you could be interfering with other radio traffic like police, medical, fire, or commerical. How would like it if your house was on fire, and the fire trucks had trouble finding your house because their radios were being jammed by some German tourists using euro walkie talkies while on vacation?
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Wed 04/19/2006

Travelling to Greece
Fiona -- The walkie talkies that I’m familiar with transmit on the US Citizens’ Band frequencies. They will work in Europe. They will work anywhere radio waves propagate. However, the right to use those frequencies is allocated by international treaty. In Italy, I understand that the US CB bands are used for fire & police communications. It is illegal to use US CB’s in Europe.

It is possible to use radios that use these bands and get away with it. You surely wouldn’t be conspicuous with a small electronic device pressed to your ear. It is possible that you could be caught. I don’t know what the penalty might be. It would probably be unpleasant at least.

I’d be interested to hear what anybody knows about Europeans walkie talkies. Availability, price, frequencies, &/or possibility of using them in the US?

What about European cell phone walkie talkies?
USA Wed 04/19/2006

Walkie-talkies not for foreign use
I am sure it is illegal in foreign countries to use walkie-talkies brought in from outside that particular country. You are doing so at your own risk!
Allen
Lafayette, LA USA Wed 04/19/2006

Back Doors on Sardinia?
My wife and I will be spending a week on Sardinia in October. Rick has not been there and has no suggestions so I am turning to you folks to see if anyone has discovered some "back doors" on Sardinia. I hear the north and west coast are beautiful and we'd like to rent an apartment in a small town on the coast. All suggestions are welcome. Grazie e Ciao!
Gerry <email>
Victoria, BC Canada Wed 04/19/2006

irishcarrentals.com
I'm planning a trip soon to Ireland and will be renting a car. In doing some digging online I discovered the company Irish Car Rentals (irishcarrentals.com). They look professional and the "drive-away" quote they've given is the best I've seen, including taxes, insurance, etc. I hesitate, though, because I have not seen this company mentioned in any travel books, and I've looked through several. Does anyone have any knowledge/experience with this company? Thanks! -Mark
Mark <email>
Ixonia, WI USA Wed 04/19/2006

Walkie talkies in Greece
You cannot use walkie talkies (or two way radios) bought in the US in Europe, they use different frequencies. So you'll need to wait until you get there to get them.
Erika
Edmonds, WA USA Wed 04/19/2006

Travelling to Greece
My husband and I are leaving for Greece in about a month. Any tips? My husband is a type 1 diabetic. We are considering purchasing walkie talkies when we arrive as the USA ones are not useable in Europe. Should I purchase them here rather than waiting till we get to Greece? I am the adventurer type and my husband would like to have some means to communicate with me should I "roam." Any help would be great. If you use the email note what it is in reference to, else I don't open them up.
Fiona <email>
Tampa, Florida USA Wed 04/19/2006

Travel Experiences
During one of our many travels to Europe, we, at one time, rented a vehicle and traveled throughout England. We stayed at farm houses with B&B's. We received B & B vouchers and planned our stay based on our sightseeing destination. It was fantastic! One stop was the former hunting lodge of King Edward. In fact we stayed in his bedroom! We got to spend wonderful evenings after a day of sightseing with the host family, which was welcomed and expected.
Jeff
NJ USA Wed 04/19/2006

Place to stay in Dubrovnik
please visit this website: www.villa-dubrovnik.hr We stayed there about two years ago and would highly recommend this quaint, small hotel!
PB & J
Suwanee, Georgia USA Wed 04/19/2006

Re: Travel Path,
10 to 12 days is a workable amount of time. From the UK to hit a variety of places on the continent, I would opt for a loop, Eurostar to Paris, over to the Mosel and Rhine Valleys, Amsterdam, then Brussels or Bruge on the way back to the UK. Probably pushing it, but a good trip. Don't be tempted by Italy for the time you have, unless you fly there direct from the UK and concentrate on that. As for a pass, the 3 country Selectpass (France, Germany, Benelux) 5 days in 2 months ($383) would most likely work, Eurostar(Chunnel) will be separate.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 04/19/2006

Brussels
We are planning on driving from Germany into Belgium.I had originaly planned to stay in Brugge and use the train to go into Brussels .However I will drive near Brussels enroute to Brugge on a saturday and am considering driving into Brussels and then to Brugge on sunday.Does anone have any opinion on this.
jack <email>
sheboygan, Wi USA Wed 04/19/2006

re: Travel Path, Stephanie
5 days is not alot of time, I guess I would suggest 1 of 3 different possibilities. 1. Paris and just beyond (Normandy or Loire Valley) 2. Southwest to Provence and the coast 3. Luxemburg, Belgium, and stretch to Amsterdam I think any of these would be do-able in 5 days, not take you all over just travelling, and each very different.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 04/19/2006

croatia and slovenia
here is a link to private lodgings in dubrovnik www.dubrovnik-online.com and hotels in dubrovnik www.bevegna.hr hotel petka is very good www.croatia-vacation.com for slovenia have a look at www.slovenia-tourism.si bled and bohinj- alps are nice places to see and www.cityhotel.si in ljubljana is central and very good
ca
america, USA Wed 04/19/2006

I just heard back from the Spanish rail and they do not have lockers in Toledo. Thought you might want to know.
USA Wed 04/19/2006

ATM Fees
A Texas local bank - ExtraCo Banks will start charging the 3% fee in May 2006 for international ATM withdrawals.
Tamara
Belton, TX USA Wed 04/19/2006

Croatia and Slovenia
I'm going with my family to Croatia and Slovenia this may through june. We need to make reservations for a place to stay in Dubrovnik. Someplace with character, but not too expensive. Any suggestions? Also any other must-sees or advice about Croatia and slovenia would be helpful.
Maura
Lakewood, CO USA Wed 04/19/2006

TRAVEL PATH TO STRASBOURG
I would head for Switzerland and see as much of that country as possible. The scenery is unbelievable.

And you will like the hostels in Interlaken and the B&Bs in Andermatt. Also visit the Matterhorn.
USA Wed 04/19/2006

UNIQUE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
Always research every town I plan to visit to discover the unusual places to see.

Everyone’s taste is different so you will find many places to see.

I remember reading about the war rooms in London before my last trip. I found it a fascinating place if would not have seen had I not done my research.

I also remember traveling to a small island in Venice to see the last gondola maker.

There are lots of special interest sights that you will know about only through extensive research.

Don’t forget the tour of the salt mines in Salzburg.
BERRYWHITE
RENO, USA Wed 04/19/2006

RATE FOR FOREIGN CURRENCY
don’t be concerned about being robbed. Keep your money, passport and credit cards in a neck pouch and you will be safe. Very few travelers loose anything.

Using your ATM card means you wont have to carry large amounts. You can withdraw currency as often as you need it.

Be sure to notify your bank that you will be using it often in Europe.
NYC, USA Wed 04/19/2006

ATM FEES IN EUROPE
Every bank has a different fee schedule and to make matters worse, they change it often. Call a few banks in your town and shop for the best rates and policies.
CARLOS
EL PASO, USA Wed 04/19/2006

BEST TRAVEL PATH THROUGH EUROPE
There is no best path, only the one you prefer. The best way is to go to the library and browse through some travel guides. Rick’s is a good one to buy.

Then look at a map and see how the countries you choose relate to one another.

All cities offer something but because we are all different, our choices vary .

Plan on 2 days and not less for each town. If I were going I would visit Switzerland and Austria first, then Germany or England and Italy last.

But that is my personal preference; yours will be different. Consider all countries and read about them before you go.
USA Wed 04/19/2006

Travel path to/from Strasbourg, France
I will be visiting a friend in Strasbourg, France, in mid-August. We'll have about 5 days during which we want to travel and really have no idea where we should go.

Our criteria is mostly influenced by a very low budget (hostels) and are ruling out Germany because I am headed there after visiting with my friend. We're two females in our late 20s.

Would love to hear from you seasoned travelers where you recommend we go. We'll be traveling by train. Many thanks!
stephanie <email>
washington, DC USA Wed 04/19/2006

Train from Munich to Interlaken via Austria
the section of Austria passed through on the route is right along Bodensee (Lake Constance). Munich is the closest that train ever gets to Salzburg.

Since you buy a point to point ticket through Austria, it should be possible to break the journey in, say, Bregenz, but you should confirm that when you get your tickets.
<email>
USA Wed 04/19/2006

Lockers in Toledo (Train or Bus Station)
Does anyone know if there are lockers in the Toledo bus station or train station?

Thank you.
Alexandra <email>
Gainesville, Florida USA Wed 04/19/2006

travel path
If you're only there 10-12 days, I would stick to the UK. You don't say where in the UK your friends are, I'll go ahead and assume London area. If you really want to see more than one country on your trip, then I'd do 5 days in London, 5 days in Paris and plan some day trips from those cities. You wouldn't need to spend money for a rail pass that way and those cities both deserve at least 5 days each.
Ashley <email>
TN USA Wed 04/19/2006

Best Travel Path through Europe
This will be my first trip to Europe starting in the UK (friends there), and I would like to know what would be some of the best ways to see Europe...meaning which path should I travel to see different countries...I'll only have about 10 to 12 days. And also which type of Rail Pass should I get for that amount of time... I'll probably do 1.5 to 2 days in each place.

Thanks
Audrey
Va USA Wed 04/19/2006

Train from Munich to Interlaken via Austria
Hi , I was reading the article on squeezing the most from railpass at http://www.ricksteves.com/news/travelnews/0502/euraide.htm

I am interested in the Railpass Day Two route from Munich to Interlaken via Austria. Does anyone knows if the train passes by Salzburg ?

And since I need to pay €12 extra per person , does that mean I can drop at any station in Austria (including Salzburg , if it passes through) ? Thanks !
Kean <email>
Singapore, Singapore Wed 04/19/2006

ATM fees
which bank is it that will start charging 3% for ATM withdrawals ?. The only two I know of right now are US Bank and Chase, but I am sure it is catching on.
CO USA Wed 04/19/2006

Making a trip more memorable
Volunteer to help a community. Find an organization, or a church, synagogue that has a program overseas, and spend part of your holiday helping a community in Europe. you could help clean up a trail, build a building/church/school. volunteer to help teach English etc. This should certainly help make any trip more memorable!
CO USA Wed 04/19/2006

Making your trip more Meaningful
maybe NOT focusing on "seeing the sights" would help make your Europe experience more meaningful. I know that sometimes we get so anxious about the incredible amount there is to see and we try to see it all - this just makes you crazy rushing from cathedral to castle to museum.

My best advice - slow it down, go outside, talk to people. If at all possible go to smaller towns. Though I truly love London I am usually treated as just another tourist there, whereas when you get out into the countryside you are more unique. Our family will not soon forget the night we spent in a pub in Conwy with locals who found our accents "charming" and wanted to talk with us about our home, politics (in a good way), and what on earth were we doing all the way up in North Wales!

We also accidentally started a family tradition of climbing something on each trip. And counting the stairs when we climb. So we climb to the top of St. Peters, St. Pauls, the "folly" in the Cotswolds. We compare our count to the one listed in the brochure. This is silly and not important to anyone but us but it makes us search out things to climb - not always the most important sights but again, it makes memories for us.

And also, while I admire those who want to travel enough to do it by themselves, I think having someone else with you will make it more meaningful. Take a journal and use dinner time to talk about what you saw that day. Write it down in your journal. This makes you reflect on what it was that stood out in your mind that day. One friend has people sign his journal - the waiter, the people sitting next to you - what a great way to start up a conversation and have a good souvenier as well.

Hope this helps!
Karen (there are lots of us!)
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 04/19/2006

Low Cost Airlines
Air Berlin flies from Vienna to Milan/Bergamo Orio al Serio. (Ryanair also uses Bergamo, an outlying airport.) Here are two search engines for low cost airlines in Europe: www.whichbudget.com and www.skyscanner.net.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 04/19/2006

Low cost airlines
I'm looking to fly from Vienna to Milan and would like to find a low cost airline, any ideas? Plus I know Ryanair flies from Bratslava- has anyone flown from there and how was the connection from Vienna? Also do you know any other lowcost airlines who fly from there? Thanks
Janine <email>
CA USA Tue 04/18/2006

Cinque Terre
Hello Again! I lost the e-mail from a very nice gal that suggested 2 inexpensive places to stay...ugh! If anyone else out there can make suggestions I promise not to delete!! We will be there the first week of June. ;+)
Shelly Anderson <email>
Sacramento, CA USA Tue 04/18/2006

Bekah
I (think) I know what you're talking about, and I think having a friend with you will make a World of difference. You didn't mention your friend's travel expertise, so make sure they have similar knowledge as you do about Europe. Rick Steves' book "Europe 101" is a wonderful place to start!

Have fun!
Jason <email>
Boulder, Co USA Tue 04/18/2006

Re: Amsterdam
Have you been to the Dutch Resistance Museum? http://www.verzetsmuseum.org/english/indexE.html Brussels has an excellent Belgian Army Museum. They have equipment from Belgium's army through the years, not just WWII stuff. But their collection of tanks is pretty impressive. They even have several WWI tanks. Further from Amsterdam, there are some good Battle of the Bulge museums in eastern Belgium and Luxembourg, but they may be too far from Amsterdam. Email me if you would like more info about them.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 04/18/2006

Enriching your travels
Sometimes on the message board I am struck by how passionately we feel about this or that particular sight or site somewhere. Travel and what we take from it is such a personal thing. I think it shouldn't be a checklist- Mona Lisa- check, David, check, Alps- check...etc. I still have a vivid memory of my daughters, when young, crouched in a vast field of wild daffodils outside some ruined castle in England. My memories (this is now over ten years ago)of Buckingham Palace and other tourist "musts" on our list are much hazier. I also vividly remember being trapped by a huge herd of sheep when we were lost on a country road. Etc. Doing a lot of reading before you go is another suggestion- even historical fiction gives you a sense of the stories behind what you are seeing and a better appreciation. And I would say, above all, go see what matters to YOU- it's your experience, rather than some targeted number of "must-see" paintings or places.
(another!) Karen
USA Tue 04/18/2006

Unique experiences
Thinking about unique experiences, it seems like the best experiences have been unplanned. Maybe that's why the experiences have been so great--it's that they have been unexpected. Being from Minnesota, we are not naturally "wild & crazy" people so sometimes we have to force ourselves to step outside of our comfort zone. Being a woman alone would be difficult, and my husband finds it hard to meet people when he's alone on business. My son goes to youth hostels and meets people there--there's always young people out for adventure. There are organized "pub crawls" and walking tours where you always end up talking to people. We find that buying people drinks is always a way to meet people. I like photography & offer to take people's pictures (with their cameras.) Sometimes if a child is especially cute, I ask the parents if I can photograph the child and send them a picture via e-mail. I've met some interesting people that way too.
Karen <email>
MN USA Tue 04/18/2006

unique experience
I'm not really sure if there is any true answer to this question, but here goes: Last summer I travelled to France alone and, while it was nice, I came home feeling like I hadn't had any unique experiences. I was just another tourist going to all the same (albeit incredible) sights. I am returning to Europe with a good friend this summer, but part of me is fearing falling into that tourist rut again. Are there any suggestions to avoid this and have a more "authentic" experience- whatever that may be?
Bekah
Toronto, Canada Tue 04/18/2006

Picnics/Food for lunch
Picnics are great in Europe.take your own plastic knife and spoons. Also we have bought in Europec a little coil heater which pays for itself many times inhot tea and coffee(Take a cheap plastic or china mug to leave behind +tea coffee and sugar and creamer. sometimes we take a thermos to leave(kiddie type from garage sales) but only a real thermos keeps tea hot! We also take a cheap insulted lunch bag to leave(Cold drinks and water can often be put in fridge at B&B then kept cold in lunch bag. Some folks take a freezer cube but a small water bottle works great. Take koolaide or Tang or other powdered drinks but remember milk is cheap drink in Germany Austria and france I know . Just back from France Picnic each day(sometimes in car unfortunately!
DC
Indiana USA Tue 04/18/2006

Language translator
I found a company that sells the model translator I told you about on a previous post. Go to www.languagequest.com. It is 29.95 but appears to be 5 dollars off. Good luck.
Pat
MA USA Tue 04/18/2006

Transport from airport to hotel in Rome
You should e-mail them to ask, but it usually means a chauffer-driven car, large-size. The usual taxi fare into Rome from the airport is about 40-45 Euros. The express train to Termini, of course, is the cheapest. But you'd have to take a taxi from there to your hotel, since you're just across the river from the Trastevere area (a great place to wander the narrow streets, by the way). And by the way, the hotel has a great little interactive map that sets out routes to major attractions, and the travel time walking/bus (including the bus number you have to take). Check it out at http://www.hotelpontesisto.com/web/. What a cool feature!
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Tue 04/18/2006

Language translator
We have used the 5 Language European Translator made by Franklin on several trips and it has saved us many problems. I believe if you search the internet you should be able to find one. Our model is TWE-106. (Translator/Travel Ace) There may be a newer model but this one has served us well. By the way, almost everyone we met in Germany spoke English. We found the translator most useful in reading signs and menus. It is a great idea as a gift. I'd but him a spare battery too.
Pat
MA USA Tue 04/18/2006

non smoking room
Yes, you can request non-smoking rooms in Paris hotels. You can also ask that its a room that is always non-smoking. Some hotels have non-smoking floors. I would not want a room that has been "aired out". Yuck!
USA Tue 04/18/2006

Non smoking hotel rooms
Is it possible to request a non smoking room in Paris. I just requested it and was told that the room would be aired out before my arrival. This is a room that costs 255euros per night.
Vickie
Los Gatos, CA USA Tue 04/18/2006

B & B in Prague?
We are traveling to Prague in Jul. Any suggestions for a B&B for 2 adults, 2 children.
Mark <email>
Bitburg, Germany Tue 04/18/2006

Re: Kimberly- Dachau from Berlin?
Kimberly- from Berlin did you perhaps mean the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp memorial? Sachsenhausen is an easy day trip from Berlin, but as another traveler pointed out below, Dachau is in S. Germany, so it's a very easy day trip from Munich (from Munich to the town of Dachau, where busses marked "KZ" take you from the train station to the concentration camp memorial/museum, only around 40 minuets each way). A very memorable, important and moving experience.
Lawrence <email>
New York, NY USA Tue 04/18/2006

Rate for foreign currency
Ray, your information about fees for foreign currency is wrong! My daughter is a Business Associate at Wells Fargo and has worked the foreign currency desk. Her answer to your posting, "If a WF customer purchases a standard foreign currency (Euro, British Pound, Canadian, Australian, Mexico, Japanese, Yen, etc.) at a WFB that has an International department, the customer will not be charged any fee in addition to the exchange rate. If, however, a non-WF customer purchases a standard foreign currency, the non-WF customer will be charged a $5 fee in addition to the exchange rate."

A $5 fee for non-customers. Free for customers.

I would also refer you to their foreign exchange services website at www.foreignexchangeservices.com. You will find that anyone can order foreign currency from them for just a $8 fee which includes delivery. Their posted exchange rate when I checked it today was just 4.8% over the international rate.
Lee
CO USA Tue 04/18/2006

Stephanie
London is a very easy city to get around in. Use the underground - (subway). It is very clean and safe, and you can get virtually anywhere in london by using it. I'm sure somebody at Heathrow can direct you to the closest underground station. When you get there look for a map of the underground, and try to get a map of the system to carry with you!

Good luck! I'm sure you'll be fine!
USA Tue 04/18/2006

OH yes, and I am in Europe for 5 weeks with a Eurail pass.
Stephanie <email>
CO USA Tue 04/18/2006

HELP! Traveling Alone
I just arrived in London (Heathrow) and I am SO homesick. I am traveling by myself. I reserved a hostel for the first night that is so far away from everything (wasn't expecting it to be!). I am having anxiety attacks. Does anyone have suggestions on how I can keep my cool and successfully travel alone?

I think my biggest fear is getting lost. But I know that's half the fun... Not with my suitcase though! Is it easy to go into a bus station and tell them where you want to go, and they get you there? I'm a little bit new to public transportation, so I need help in this area. Any help you could provide would be greatly appreciated. I'm a nervous wreck. Please e-mail me as I don't know if I'll be able to sign on again soon. stephaniedickens@gmail.com
Stephanie <email>
CO USA Tue 04/18/2006

JOHN in SAN FRANCISCO---I Cannot speak to the Austrian part of your question (haven't been there in more than half a century) but I spent 3 weeks in the Dolomites a couple of years ago. I wouldn't concern myself with the car question, were I you---bus service out of Bolzano can provide multiple access points for the high country. I went to Castlerotto "just for a start---a couple days, maybe" and stayed 12 days, hiking virtually out of my B&B door every day. The Dolomite region is huge and a little research will help you find good hiking bases, whether or not you have a car. Cicerone Press has some very good guides to the region. Best wishes for some happy walking.
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 04/18/2006

re: Sicily suggestions
Dean - 4 or 5 days in Sicily is doable, but you'll need to be moving fast (we actually "did" Sicily in 4 days, so I know it's possible - although I know many people say we're crazy).

Can't help you much with the cities as we didn't really spend much time in them (doing so will definitely slow you down). I hear many people like Palermo, but we just picked up a car there and headed for the countryside.

Our focus was primarily on the ruin sites, which were very impressive (and unlike the major sites on the Italian mainland, were generally not crawling with mobs of tourists). We liked Taormina (cute town, beautiful views, great amphitheater in an amazing setting, although very touristed), loved Agrigento and Selinunte (both incredible Greek ruins), and Segesta (more ruins).

Having tasted just a bit of Sicily, I'd love to go back sometime for a longer visit. Hope that helps.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Tue 04/18/2006

Sorrento & Amalfi boat excursions
Meg, Sorrento is a great place to stay to visit the coast and islands, and even Pompeii. I’m not a rollercoaster rider and don’t like heights, but took the bus to visit Amalfi and Positano and must say it was a blast, and the scenery beautiful. However, some feel more comfortable going by boat and coming back by bus or boat. Either way, just go down to the dock where the boats come in and out all day and purchase your tickets. You can get tickets there to Capri, Ischia, Amalfi, etc. Easy. Have a great trip.
Devra <email>
Lake Forest, CA USA Tue 04/18/2006

re: Sorrento & Amalfi boat excursions
Meg, while I wouldn't try and drive the Amalfi coast, there's no problem with the bus service there - it's frequent, easy, and comfortable (my wife gets car sick at the drop of a hat, and she had no trouble on the bus, despite the hairpin turns). As for boats, it should be easy to find them once in Sorrento. Sorrento is geared for tourism (to put it mildly) and it's more than easy to find whatever you need once you're there.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Tue 04/18/2006

Meeting place at CDG
the Sheraton Hotel in terminal 2 at CDG is a great meeting spot--and you can read the day's papers in the lobby. It is located right above the RER station (which makes it easy to ask for directions/follow signs). There is only one Sheraton at CDG, so you know you won't get lost.
Ashley <email>
TN USA Tue 04/18/2006

Rome B&B near Campo di Fiori
We're sailing off the coast of Italy in June, but before and after we're staying a few days in Rome. I have one place I usually stay near San Pietro, but I would like to explore the rest of the city. Any suggestions near Campo di Fiori?
Jessica Christenson <email>
Morocco, IN USA Tue 04/18/2006

Sicily suggestions
Looking for suggestions for planning a trip to Sicily. What cities should I hit and how long would you recommend staying in each? I’m thinking about spending around 4 or 5 days in Sicily and then moving on to Sorrento for a bit, and ending in Rome. Any help would be appreciated!
Dean <email>
NJ USA Tue 04/18/2006

Sorrento & Amalfi boat excursions
Our family would like to spend several days in Sorrento, Italy. Having heard all about the widy, dangerous roads along the Amalfi coast it is not our desire to drive or take a bus on that route. Our only other option is by boat. Does anyone have any good ideas of who to contact? We were wanting a few hours just going up and around - basing the trip in and out of Sorrento. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Meg <email>
USA Tue 04/18/2006

to freshen up post-airline, pre-drive
Arriving Dublin, Ireland 8:30am May 11, 2006...immediate car rental to travel thru Co.Meath/Co. Cavan (to Co. Donegal for first night). Any ideas on inexpensive place to shower and eat upon our arrival or on the way to our destination? (traveling N2/N3)
Eileen <email>
San Diego, CA USA Tue 04/18/2006

Meeting at CDG
First, consider if you really want to drive from Calais to CDG and then out to some point in the Pays de Loire, or along the Loire River. It's a very long river, but I assume you mean the chateaux areas. If you still think CDG is the best meeting place, skip the airport all together and meet at one of the on premises hotels such as the Hilton, Mecure or Ibis. There are free shuttle busses from the terminals to these hotels at several to the hour. Check the Accor web site perhaps to verify and to get phone nos. You also have a place for your car. I've used the Formule 1 lot (I guess it's theirs) free. You might liken a drive around CDG like driving about LAX only with traffic, exit, road use signs in a language you may not be able to read.
hg
USA Mon 04/17/2006

Naples airport hotel
Does anyone know of a hotel near the Naples airport? Thank you
Lorraine <email>
Steamboat , CO USA Mon 04/17/2006

Amsterdam
Kris,

Concerning things to do in Amsterdam- consider a day trip to Haarlem, about 20 minutes away by train. Very nice place to wander and enjoy. We had a good rice table dinner at the laughing Jaavan restaurant, and there are several inviting places to have a glass of wine in the main town square. I think its on Rick's itinerary for his multi-week best of Europe tour, and you can find a write up in his Amsterdam guide book.
Dave
San Francisco, CA USA Mon 04/17/2006

Transport from airport to hotel in Rome
I booked a room with a hotel in rome this summer(hotel ponte sisto, recommended by both fodors and frommers). They recently emailed me, offering transport from the airport to the hotel, at 65 euro (flat rate, including luggage). The email said it would be "private transport."

Is this a common offer from hotels in rome? I'm not quite sure what "private transport" means- is it likely to be a hotel shuttle van, or just somebody driving their personal car?

Is 65 euros a good rate from FCO to the Pantheon area?

Not sure if I should take this offer, or just get my own cab at the airport. Any comments?

Thanks,

David
David <email>
CA USA Mon 04/17/2006

Meeting place at Charles De Gaulle
We will be driving from Calais to the Loire & will pick up our friends en-route at termial one, does anyone have suggestions for a meeting point. or a place they could go where we could phone them in case of delays,
Jean <email>
Riverside, CA USA Mon 04/17/2006

Just MHO:
Vespa in Rome -- Dangerous (?)

I drive a city bus for a living and I'm an avid motorcycle rider and I've only been to Rome once, but I didn't think the traffic seemed so bad. I thought traffic in London and Athens was much worse.

I think it depends more on your experience with Vespas and traffic than anything else. If you make your living as a bicycle messenger in New York City and your hobby is raceing motorcycles you won't have any problems on a Vespa in Rome, but if you live in Winslow, Arizona and have never seen a motor scooter up close you and your daughter both are doomed.

=================================================

Exchange Rate: Cash vs. ATM

No mater what the local bank charges for the exchange rate, you still have to factor in the $35 fee for the service of exchanging the money. So okay, maybe your bank only charges $20. It's still way too expensive. Get an ATM card (a card that uses a PIN number) from your credit union and use it after your flight touches down.

Have a wonderful trip. London is a great city.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Mon 04/17/2006

Amsterdam
You must see Utrecht, about 40 minutes by train from Amsterdam. The Oudegracht (old canal) is lined with stores, while the canal itself is at a lower level. That lower level is lined with outdoor bars and restaurants....a beautiful place to go. The Vredenberg is the site of a huge open-air market on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays...out the main train station, through the modern mall and outside....that's also the start of the Old Canal district. Stop at the licorice stand near the entrance, and say hi to the lady running it with her husband...she's from Wisconsin. The Neude is a popular entertainment square lined with cafes...something going on there just about every week through the summer, usually towards the weekends. The Dom tower dominates the city...climb to the top for a great view, but it's a long hike up! The museum quarter is off the Oudegracht, with lots of small antique shops and the like, as well. An undiscovered treasure of the Netherlands, and well worth a day.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 04/17/2006

CASH VS ATM
The poster below who says a lot of card and money theft occurs at ATMs, is right some of the time, but I haven’t heard of a theft at a machine in a long time.

Don’t let his comment disturb you. Just be sure you use normal precautions when using the machine.

Watch your back. Some European banks have machines inside the lobby. I look for them.

I always put my money into my neck pouch before moving away from the machine.

Above all, don’t wait until it is more convenient to put your money away.
USA Mon 04/17/2006

Gifts From America
I have friends in a few European countries, there children find American soccer jersies highly prized items, since you are travelling to Germany where the world cup is being held this year may make a great gift idea.
USA Mon 04/17/2006

Amsterdam
Any suggestions for two days in Amsterdam? We have been there before and have seen many of the museums and the Ann Frank house. Day trips or even one night away from Amsterdam would be fine too. WWII sites are especially interesting to us. Thanks very much! Kris
Kris
Atlanta, GA USA Mon 04/17/2006

Exchange Rate for Cash vs ATM
Tamara,

Your friend is wrong. Look at it from just a common sense point of view. The pound is "imported", it is not native to this country. Imported items always cost more because there are additional taxes and fees to import it into this country.

The same applies with money.

Use your ATM card.
USA Mon 04/17/2006

EuroNight train
Jeff, you have just discovered one of non-benefits of a rail pass. Reservations, particularly for night trains, are sometimes difficult to find.

Hopefully you haven't bought the pass yet. Certainly you wouldn't do that before finding out how you are going to get reservations, right?

According to Euraide, the cost of reservations for a double compartment on that train is €64 per person. If you go to the Trenitalia website, you might find a "Smart Price" fare for the same compartment for €79 per person, complete fare, no railpass needed, €15 more than with a rail pass.

If you already have the rail pass, Norm is right. The best, least expensive option is to have someone in Italy get the reservations for you over there.
USA Mon 04/17/2006

CASH VS. ATM
Tamara,

that all depends. I just checked the Wells Fargo website, and they are selling GBP for $1.8367 /GBP. According to Oanda.com, the exchange rate today is $1.7695/GBP. So, WF is charging 3.8% over the international rate today.

If you have an ATM card with US Bank or with Chase, they will charge you 3% plus a fee that amounts to another 1/2%, so there wouldn't be much difference between what you would pay for cash over here vs cash from an ATM over there.

However, most banks (so far) are only charging 1% plus a fee, so you would be better of, as far as exchange rate is concerned, to use the ATM.

Also, today is unusual. Wells Fargo usually charges 5%, and some places, like Travelex, charge 7%-10% for cash.

There are some intangibles as well. With cash from home, you don't have to go looking for an ATM every few days. Also, a lot of card and money theft occurs at ATMs, so you are safer not using them.

Still, I use the ATMs.
USA Mon 04/17/2006

Dan-Paris Experience
I would love to hear more about your Paris experience as we are leaving in 8 weeks with our family. Any tips would be appreciated! Thanks.
Alexandra Martella <email>
Longmont, CO USA Mon 04/17/2006

Disney is about as American as it gets
The most famous American Icon to buy? ?DISNEY stuff!! You can go to your local mall /Disney Store and get Disney stuff or go online to disneyoutlet Dot com or Disney shopping dot com and get them Disney items. Pins are inexpensive and small and make good gifts, or tshirts.
USA Mon 04/17/2006

EXCHANGE RATE CASH VS ATM
Tamara: Your travel companion may think she will get a better exchange rate by buying her pounds here in the US, but if she reads all the letters in this column and in the archives she will see that other travelers have done research and find that is not true.

You are correct in using your ATM card to make withdrawals to save money.

You don’t need to take pounds to England. You can make ATM withdrawals in every airport in Europe.

Just ask someone where the nearest ATM machine is when you land in the terminal. I do it all the time.

Whether it is a huge difference depends on your definition of huge.

But the convenience of being able to obtain currency when you need it over there is of greater value to me.

Tell you friend to read this column and the section called “ATMs minimizing fees.”
TX USA Mon 04/17/2006

Exchange Rate for Cash vs ATM
I am traveling to London in about a week. My traveling companion feels that she will get a better exchange rate getting her traveling money in pounds ahead of time while still in the US. I plan on using my ATM card once I arrive in London and take periodic withdraws as needed. Is there a huge difference in the exchange rate between the two systems?
Tamara
Belton, TX USA Mon 04/17/2006

Electronic language translator - yay or nay?
My brother is moving to Germany for work - he has difficulty with languages so I was thinking of getting him one of those talking handheld translators. Has anyone ever tried to use one of those? If you did and thought it was worth the cost, can you reccommend a brand? Thanks!
Beth <email>
Washington, DC USA Mon 04/17/2006

Gifts from America
I have relatives in Europe. On a recent visit I purchased as a gift, baseball gloves and both hard and soft balls. It is an American tradition! They loved it. Occasionally, I have to resupply the balls.
Jeff
Middlesex, NJ USA Mon 04/17/2006

Paris Hotel
Can anyone tell me how far rue de Saint-Simon(7th Arr) is from the heartbeat of Boulevard St. Germain and the Left Bank. Maps can be deceiving for the distance you must walk from one area to another?
Vickie
Los Gatos, CA USA Mon 04/17/2006

Gifts from America
I brought friends' kids in Austria NY Yankee baseball caps (yankee t shirts are also a good idea) - this is typically american something they can't buy there and NY Yankees are known team even if baseball isn't played there. Caps or Tshirts from US Basketball teams or american soccer teams are also a good idea. I just happen to be from NY and a yankee fan. The kids loved the caps.
USA Mon 04/17/2006

Gifts from America
I will be visiting relatives in Germany this summer. They have 7 and 9 year old boys. Any ideas as to what would be a cool gift for them?
Ron <email>
PA USA Mon 04/17/2006

Vespa in Rome--danger!
I wouldn't drive a car in Rome, much less ride a vespa. Traffic does not follow any discernible pattern, much less obey traffic laws. Crossing the street and the occasional taxi ride are plenty of adventure for me!
Ashley <email>
TN USA Mon 04/17/2006

Deli in Venice
Alex, In Venice go to the Rialto Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk thru the street vendors until you come to your first real "left" in the street. There is a bank on the right. Go down a way and on your left there is a really good deli. Their smoked turkey is wonderful!! The also have a squid, shrimp, celery, onion, etc. salad in an Italian dressing called "insalada di mare" that is really good if you like seafood. And try their artichokes. They are in olive oil and are fabulous! Makes me want to go back!! The other side of the deli has cheese and olives. Be sure to try them too. You order and pay and then pick up your food. This place is worth looking for.
USA Mon 04/17/2006

picnic in Venice
Alex, In Venice there is a small park tucked away near where the water bus to San Marco lands. There are usually street artist on the water side near this park. It is behind all the street vendors lined up there. You sort of have to look for it and it is small but nice for a picnic.
USA Mon 04/17/2006

Hiking
I vote for the Dolomites for hiking. while Hallstatt, Austria is also wonderful. The italian Alps (dolomites) are superb, more varied and limitless. Accomodations in dolomites would however be alot more expenisve in case that matters and also difficult to get to without a car.Bus from Bolzano is possible but long and infrequent.Do the dolomites if you have the opportunity and time.
Ca USA Mon 04/17/2006

Euronight train
thanks Norm for the info. I was already beginning to think that Trentitalia was a dead end even though the Swiss rail system sent me in their direction. Someone e-mailed me and sugggested I call SNCF which t hey said should work I am going to try that next. Jeff
Jeff Briggs <email>
St. Johnsbury, VT USA Mon 04/17/2006

Left- Luggage Facilities in Paris
Jason is mistaken. While left-luggage facilities no longer exist at the Paris airports, all the major train stations in the city (except for Gare St-Lazare) have either attended left-luggage facilities or coin-operated lockers. This is also true for train stations in the larger cities throughout France.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 04/17/2006

Jake-Left Luggage in Paris
Last time I was in France, several years ago (pre-9/11), there were no left luggage services in all of France. I'd like to think that they have returned, but considering the recents events in France, and the World in general, I'm not too hopeful that they have returned.

I'd love for someone to prove me wrong!
Jason <email>
Boulder, CO USA Sun 04/16/2006

Dave - Rome with Daughter
A much closer alternative to Pompeii is Ostia Antica outside Rome. Great for a day of exploring - be sure to research with your daughter ahead of time and plan to buy one of the cool "overlay" books so you can see how it was back in the day!

Happy travels! (ps, I second the other guy who said to NOT rent a vespa! I love Roma, but it's tricky enough to just WALK safely in that city!)
Renee
CO USA Sun 04/16/2006

MUSEUMS AMSTERDAM
I second the poster from Florida the Kroller-Muller museum is well worth a day trip to the Hoge Veluwe Ntional Park located near Arnhem,Netherlands.
kentucky USA Sun 04/16/2006

Picnics
Alex -- think of picnics in a very broad sense. Not always in a park or grassy area. Food is easy to find in the cities. And easier if you have a mind set to always be looking. You might see a bakery at 10, the cheese at 11, fruit at 12:30 and wine at 1 -- then you are ready for the picnic. We carry plastic wine glasses, plastic ware, handiwipes, a foot sq portable cutting board, sharp knife. A local newspaper makes a good table cloth and a final holder of trash. We focus on foods that are easy to carry and not too messy.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Sun 04/16/2006

Italy and Austria
Greetings fellow RS travlers! The end of May my husband and I are travling to Tornio,The Cinque Terre as well as Vienna. Can anyone recommend a B&B, local hotel or Pension? Many Thanks!!! Shelly
Shelly <email>
Sacramento, CA USA Sun 04/16/2006

picnics
I've read several postings about having a picnic for lunch. I'm planning a trip (with my significant other) to Munich, Berlin, Rome and Venice in May. It will be our first time to Europe and want to see the popular sites with some day trips to smaller cities. My question is, how easy is it to find places to buy food for picnics? What are some good traditional foods that you recommend in these areas? Any unique favorites (food or picnic areas)? Is it unusual to get a bottle of wine,too? If so, what do you usually use for wine glasses/cups?
Alex
Japan Sun 04/16/2006

Left Luggage in Paris
Do any of the train stations in Paris have left luggage or luggage storage lockers? Thanks for any info
elaina <email>
austin, tx USA Sun 04/16/2006

Austrian Hiking
Your question is hard to answer without more information. For example, do you prefer climbs up from the valley or walks down from the top of a chairlift or cable car? Do you want to hike directly from your hotel or is a short train or bus ride to the trailhead acceptable? Do you prefer staying in a large city or a small village? Have you decided on Innsbruck and Hallstatt for other reasons and want to do some hiking while you are there or are you looking for a base for hiking?
Jake
USA Sun 04/16/2006

East from Dubrovnik
There are both bus and air routes east from Dubrovnik. You can find bus information at http://www.dubrovnik-online.com/english/transportation_coach.php Try www.airgorilla.com for air connections
Jeff
USA Sun 04/16/2006

Amalfi Coast
I need suggestions on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast...Positano or Sorrento?? I would also like some names of hotels. We will be spending 2 nights.
Renee <email>
USA Sun 04/16/2006

East from Dubrovnik
We are planning an 'Eastern European' trip for September and October. The itinerary follows Rick's suggested train route. Unfortunately Rick's plan terminates in Dubrovnik. We want to carry on from Dubrovnik to Sofia and or Istambul.Does anyone know if it is possibe to go east from Dubrovnik by bus, rail or plane.
Bruce <email>
Ottawa, ON Canada Sun 04/16/2006

Summer Travel Not So Bad
We too have taken our longest European trips in the summer when our kids can come with us. While there are some sights that we just haven't been able to get into because they were too crowded, we don't feel shortchanged - we'll just go back another time.

Some summer strategies - go as far off the beaten path as you can. We headed out of very crowded London to the relative calm of Southwest England and then up to Northern Wales where we met many UK families on vacation but very few other Americans. In fact, we still meet up with a family from London who was holidaying at the same seaside town. Same for the Dordogne region of France - LOTS of European familes, but that was fun for us.

Get up early - avoid crowds and heat by getting to the most important tourist spot EARLY then see whatever else you can after that.

Rest in the heat (and most crowded part)of the day.

Carry bottled water and allow plenty of time for snacks, drinks, and sitting at a park or cafe.

And a final plus for the Rick Steves crowd - it is VERY easy to pack lights but still takes lots of different outfits because summer clothes and shoes are so lightweight.

We are getting ready for trip #8- Germany, Austria & Prague. I expect crowds but also beautiful weather and another great experience with my kids!
Karen
USA Sun 04/16/2006

fear of heights
Along with the sometimes physical symptoms of anxiety (in this case, a fear of heights), some people have physical symptoms of the higher altitude that are similar to anxiety symptoms (shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, sweating, etc.). For people who are already anxious, experiencing the higher altitude can make them even more nervous (it happened to me!). I think the key is to take it very slowly, and have everyone in the group be aware of anxiety and altitude symptoms, and be very understanding of those who may have problems with either or both.
M
USA Sun 04/16/2006

re: airport/airline security
The lighters and matches were in our carry-on bags. The security guy asked us first if we had either, and we decided honesty was the best policy and told him we did have both. In the end, I told my husband I didn't mind the tight security because it makes me feel safer. And our lighters were only about $1.50 each anyway, so it was no big loss. I found the security personnel at Heathrow to be quite friendly, and they seemed to appreciate our honesty and adherence to the rules.

I just wanted to tell everyone here about our experience, in case someone buys an expensive Zippo lighter or something and can't take it through security.
M
USA Sun 04/16/2006

Summer Travel
I just have to say that not everyone has the luxury of traveling in the less- crowded off- season. Teachers like me, for example! I try for a 5- 6 week long European trip every other summer (teachers have to take ongoing professional coursework and/or teach summer school- fun fun!- to save for the aforementioned European trips). Yes it's sometimes crowded, but the RS books and a good attitude can overcome that AND the heat. I would rather have a long time in the summer, when my work schedule sometimes permits, than one week at spring or winter break when you lose almost two days in transit. How terrible if someone missed an opportunity of a lifetime because someone tells them "not to go in July or August"! If you take a chance and wait for the "perfect" time, who knows what can happen before then? Life is too short...sorry! Sort of cranky with state/federal mandated testing underway, but I think my point is a good one!
Karen
USA Sun 04/16/2006

Debit Cards
You can't use american debit cards for point-of-sale purchases in Europe. Europe uses a smart chip technology in their debit cards which makes the two incompatible. But you will have no problems using american debit cards at european ATMs to withdraw money from your checking account. FYI, if your debit card is stolen and is then used to make unauthorized purchases, you will be reimbursed as long as you notify mastercard in a timely manner.

Editor's Note: We believe this posting is refering to a card without a Visa or Mastercard logo on it. Point-of-sale purchase cards need to have a Visa or Mastercard logo. If the card you are using is attached to your checking account AND has a 4-digit PIN number AND has the Visa/Mastercard logo AND you have notified the card company that you will be in Europe - then you should be able to use that card throughout Europe.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 04/16/2006

Austrian hiking
I will be in Austria in July and I would like to do some hiking. I was wondering, between staying in Innsbruck and Hallstatt, which has the most day hiking options? Also, would either of those options offer me more or less hikes than the Dolomites (in Italy? Thanks
John
San Francisco, CA USA Sun 04/16/2006

Dachau lockers
Meredith,

go to www.bayern-takt.de, select "Englische Version", then "Bayern Ticket", then "Station Layout". Select Dachau (not Dachau Stadt) from the pulldown menu. There is a baggage symbol shown in the station itself. That could be a check counter, or it could be lockers.
CO USA Sun 04/16/2006

Fear of Heights
By all means go to the Alps. In many ways they are almost as spectacular from the valley floor as from the tops of the trams or furniculars. Those who prefer not to take the rides can stay on the ground but I think it would be a mistake for everyone to miss the Alps because a few have problems with heights.
Jeff
USA Sun 04/16/2006

Dear Dave, there is a huge difference between a debit card and a ATM card. Debit cards do not require a pin, they work like a credit card when used in a store, but the money comes directly from you bank account. ATM cards require a pin and therefore much safer than Debit cards, if lost or taken.
USA Sun 04/16/2006

TSA is NOT the New World Order
The TSA is ONLY responsible for security at US airports. They do not set policies for the rest of the world. While matches may be acceptable to the TSA, it does not mean that matches are acceptable to other security agencies in other countries. Same for TSA locks.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Sun 04/16/2006

MEETING PLACE IN MALPENSA
Liz: The best spot to meet anyone is the McDonalds in the terminal.

There are plenty of seats and since there is only one, it is foolproof. I always choose a second meeting place in case the first one is removed.

At Malpensa you can choose the American Airlines ticket counter or any other international carrier counter.
MANNY
TX USA Sun 04/16/2006

Off-season in the Berner Oberland
For Paul: We were in Gimmelwald last year the end of September. Some places were closed. But the grocery store in Murren was opened for groceries. Our host, Esther, had homemade goods available in her B&B. There was a restaurant opened across the street from her. Waking in Gimmelwald in the morning was amazing. The smells, the air, the sounds. We had a view of the mountain from our skylight. We are planning a trip back next September for a week. We LOVED it.
Angela <email>
Toronto, Ontario Canada Sun 04/16/2006

Dachau - Lockers?
Does anyone know if there are luggage lockers at the S-Bahn station in Dachau or Petershausen?
Meredith <email>
Austin, TX USA Sun 04/16/2006

ITALY IN AUGUST
Kim: You can read on this page that there are so many workers taking vacation in July and August that seasoned travelers avoid travel in Italy and France during that time.

All facilities are open, but coastal towns are crowded. After 15 years of travel, I don’t know how to advise travel in August.

I guess you just go and make the best of it. It will certainly give you opportunity to boast to your friends about the adventure of travel.
M.F.S.
NYC, USA Sun 04/16/2006

UNIVERSITY STAYS IN THE U S
Lew: Do a google.com search for the university by name and add “housing” or “ summer accommodations.”

You might also try “university summer housing”.
USA Sun 04/16/2006

ATM QUESTION
Dave: Phone your bank and ask about the daily limit on your credit card.

It is a good idea to notify your bank before you go anyway so they don’t stop your use of your card as a protection when they see such unusual activity and especially in a foreign country.
CARLOS
EL PASO, USA Sun 04/16/2006

KIMBERLY CONTROLING TRAVEL EXPENSES
The amount you spend will depend on your tastes. Don’t splurge and use good sense. Don’t buy drinks with your meals. Those are the poorest value for your money.

Picnic a lot at noon. Save your meal money for a filling meal in the evening.

Split meals with our mates. Shop sandwich shops and delis. Find the supermarkets and buy food for lunch. Eat more fruit and veggies.

Stay out of the local stores. Don’t buy souvenirs unless you have budgeted for them and don’t exceed you budget.
USA Sun 04/16/2006

Museums in Amsterdam
All the recommended museums are great. Schiphil Airport also has a small selection of art from the Rijksmuseum. And if you ever have time to take a 1.5 hour drive or train/bus out of the city east, try the wonderful Kroller-Muller Museum in the middle of the Hoge Veluwe National Park. The park itself is worth a day-long visit and has free white bikes for use in the park. The museaum contains a wonderful little gift store, a huge outdoor sculpture garden and inside is a great collection of Van Goghs as well as other famous artists. Museam and park entrance is around €15.
Tallahassee, FL USA Sun 04/16/2006

FEAR OF HEIGHTS
Gail: A fear of heights should be of no concern. Stay off the cable cars.

And it is certainly worth the trip to Lauterbrunnen. Just stay on level ground.
AMY T.
LA, CA USA Sun 04/16/2006

airport/airline security
Heathrow has very tight security - at least in our experience. Were the matches/lighters in your carry on or checked baggage?
USA Sun 04/16/2006

airport/airline security
We just flew out of London Heathrow on United--got selected to do "special security", and had to turn in all lighters and matches we had bought as cheap souveneirs. We were able to keep the match boxes--the security guy just took out the matches, but not the lighters.

We assumed the lighters would probably get taken, but we were surprised about the matches (last time we checked, TSA said they were allowed). So if you collect match boxes like we do, be sure to tell security they are souveneirs so they take out the matches and let you keep the boxes.
M
USA Sun 04/16/2006

cheap Swiss flight
It may be cheaper to take a train to Bern. I think it's about a 6 hour trip from Vienna to Zurich--you'd spend that amount of time messing around in the airport anyway, and on a train you'd see some nice scenery.
M
USA Sun 04/16/2006

Rijks Museum widget
Speaking of the Rijks Museum, they are currently the only museum in the world that offers PC & MAC users a widget that delivers a different painting from their collection to user's desktop screens every morning. For more information check out this link: http://www.rijksmuseum.nl/widget
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 04/16/2006

Cheap swiss flight
Bern doesn't have a major airport. The closest are Basel and Zurich, both about an hour away by train. Geneva airport is about 2 hours by train.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 04/16/2006

Beaches in Spain in August?
My fiance and I are planning on taking our honeymoon to Spain this August. We know it's a crazy time to go, but we have our hearts set on it. Any recommendations for beautiful beaches that are somewhat off the beaten path? We're considering Menorca or Formentera and would appreciate on thoughts on these or spots on the mainland. Thanks!
Catherine
CA USA Sat 04/15/2006

Pompeii for 12 year old
Dave, If you have the time, your daughter would probably love Pompeii. Sure its a day trip away but most kids really get into it. Look it up on the internet and see what she thinks.
USA Sat 04/15/2006

No Vespa rides in Rome!!
dave, "C" is the correct answer to your question! The traffic in Rome is unbelievably dangerous. It is not a place to be on a Vespa with one of your children on the back. Please rethink this. On the other hand the colliseum is very interesting and my children wanted to go to the very top of it. They have boards across what used to be the floor so you can walk across and look down to where the animals were housed.
USA Sat 04/15/2006

Questions on rome
I'm a 40 year old Dad and I'll be travelling to Rome with my 12 year old daughter in June. I have two questions for the group:

First, a guidebook (not Rick's) suggested renting a Vespa for a fun afternoon. I was thinking of renting one and heading to out to find the Knights of Malta keyhole. Is this: a) a cool idea b) fun if you are careful c) complete suicide

Second, is seeing the inside of the collesium worth the $$$ for admission? I'm not big on tour bus level attractions in general, but sometimes things are very popular for a reason. What are people's opinions?

Any other 'must see' suggestions for Rome are always appreciated!

Thanks in advance,

Dave
dave <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Sat 04/15/2006

Museums in Amsterdam
Yes! Yes! Yes! It's actually better while renovations are going on, because all the important works are condensed into a few rooms. Rembrandt, Vermeer, Jan Steen- it's amazing.

I've been to the Louvre, Orsay, Vatican, National Gallery in London and the met in NY- and the Rijksmuseum is my favorite.
dave
San Francisco, CA USA Sat 04/15/2006

Paris shopping for teenagers
I have a 13 year old daughter. We liked Au Bon Marche in the 6th (rue Sevres, similar to nordstroms in the US), also forum des halles (a very nice mall in the 1st, chatelet metro station). Our favorite boutique was sonia rykiel in the 6th, somewhere near rue du four.

Zara is a European chain specializing in fairly inexpensive yet cool clothes. There are several in Paris.

The Champs Elysees is mostly big box international stores like Sephora. There are some extremely high end couture stores nearby on Ave. Montaigne if that's your preference.

Browsing the 6th from St. Sulpice to Sevres Babylone metro, you can't go wrong: rue du four, rue dragon, rue bonaparte, etc. are all filled with shops. Start with some crepes at Crepes du Clown on rue Canettes then wander... enjoy!

A word of caution: while au bon marche is self serve like an american store, ALL the small boutiques expect you to wait until served. Read Rick's tips on shopping! Don't touch any folded clothes- let the sales person find your size/color. A sample of what's for sale is usually arranged on a set of hangers for you to browse (and check the price). Say bon jour and be patient, and you'll probably find the sales person speaks excellent English and is very helpful.
dave
san francisco, ca USA Sat 04/15/2006

Cheap swiss flight
Does anyone know of any low cost airlines that fly into Bern, Switzerland? I'll be coming from either Vienna or Bratslava, which ever works.

Thanks
Janine <email>
CA USA Sat 04/15/2006

ATM questions
In most cases today you will get a better exchange rate getting cash from an ATM than you will using a credit or debit card for POS (point of sale) transactions.

Most, but not all banks are now charging 3% (a 1% network charge that they pass on to you and a 2% currency conversion charge for themselves) for POS transactions. You won't see the 1% network charge on your statement, but if the "interbank" rate is $1.20/€, your bank will be charged $121.20 by the network for a €100 purchase. On the other hand, they are required to show you the additional $2.42 they charge you for currency conversion.

For ATM withdrawals, most, but not all, banks charge only the 1% network charge (plus a fee). So, for example, if you withdraw €100 from an ATM in Eruope you will get charged only $121.20, not the $123.62 you would be charged for a €100 purchase. You would save $2.42 by using cash from the ATM instead of a POS transactions.

In the example above, I used $100 as an example because it is easier to follow. However, since banks also charge a fixed fee of around $2 in addition, you wouldn't want to take only €100 from the ATM. With a $2 fee, the savings would be reduced to only $.42. You should withdraw the maximum of, say, €400 ($484.80). That way the savings over POS is $7.68.

It should be noted that a few banks, USBank and Chase, for sure, are now cashing in with this extra 2% for ATM withdrawals in Europe.
CO USA Sat 04/15/2006

Fear of Heights
We are planning a trip this summer to many places Rick Steves mentions (Rothenburg, Cinque Terre, Venice, Hallstadt) but are somewhat apprehensive about visiting the Swiss Alps since at least two of our group have a serious fear of heights. This precludes them from riding a cable car or funicular or train up a mountain. Is it still worth a trip to Lauterbrunnen or ???
Gail <email>
St. Augustine, Florida USA Sat 04/15/2006

ATM questions
We've found it is simply better to charge where possible with a credit card. Europe is no different than the US - Visa and/or Mastercard is accepted most places (ask first if unsure.) You get the best exchange rate and (depending on the CC) minimize your fees. That said, it's always good to have a little pocket change from an ATM (using your debit card) for fun things like, say, a gelatto. Have fun.
Will
WA USA Sat 04/15/2006

re: Rome Shuttle
Rome is a wonderful city, but to really enjoy it you need to arrive there with knowledge gained beforehand from a good comprehensive guidebook--like Rick Steves. Everything you need to know is in that book including this most basic question regarding transportation from the airport to town. The easiest, quickest, cheapest way to make the journey is to take the train that is right inside the airport and runs twice hourly for about 10 Euro. It takes 30 minutes and takes you to Termini station. You can take shuttles, limos, taxis but they are an expensive choice for the budget traveler.
USA Sat 04/15/2006

Rome shuttle
Is anyone familiar with the shuttle service from the airport into Rome? I see a listing for Bob's Limousines & Tours in Rome. Connie
Connie Conder <email>
Leland, MI USA Sat 04/15/2006

Transilien?
Isn't Transilien the French rail network?
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Sat 04/15/2006

Atually you can get reservations through Transilien but you have to call them. Rick says to push 9 to get english speaking help.
USA Sat 04/15/2006

Museums in Amsterdam
Yes the Rijks Museum is still worth visiting-the paintings on display are not only best from their collection, they are some of the most valuable paintings in the world. The Van Gough museum is next door, and is worth visiting also. As for smaller museums, check out the Hermitage, the WWII resistance Museum, and the temporary exhibits at the Amsterdam History Museum, and the New Church.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sat 04/15/2006

Airline Advice - AIrFrance
Kate, Air France gives pretty good service but I'd worry about the possibility of strikes. Do a Google search for "Air France strike" to see what I mean. Then again, last year it was United Airlines that might go on strike and this year Delta is not exactly a happy place.
USA Sat 04/15/2006

ATM Question
thanks for the info. No need for worry, I was merely unclear on the difference between "ATM card" and Debit cards, Apparently there is no difference. Thanks again, I now know exactly what I'll do.
Dave
CA USA Sat 04/15/2006

ATM (Debit) Card vs. Credit Card
It's only a little bit expensive to get your own money from a checking or savings account with an ATM card. It's seriously expensive to borrow the banks money with a credit card.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Sat 04/15/2006

ATM Question
Dave, Check out this website to explain the difference:

http://www.foreignborn.com/self- help/banking/6-atm_debit_cards.htm

If you have a pin number for your debit card, then you should be OK becuase this money is coming directly out of your checking or savings.

A pin number on a traditional credit card is very different. Since you said you will pay off the balance when you come home, that means you have a traditional credit card. This type of card will always charge you more interest and/or fees to withdraw money.

You may also want to get Rick's "Europe through the Back Door" book. This is a great book for basic travel skills. Honestly, I'm scared that you don't know this type of information. If you're going to a foregn country you really need to arm yourself with basic survival info such as How to use the telephones?, Where can I get money? What type of transportation should I use?

Get Rick's book!
USA Sat 04/15/2006

ATM question
An ATM card from your bank is the same as a DEBIT card. If you use your CREDIT card to get cash, you will be charged interest from the day of the transaction - there is no "grace period" for cash withdrawal transactions. Your credit card company will also charge you an "international transaction fee" of anywhere from 1% to 3% of the amount of every transaction - including cash withdrawals.

In other words, using your credit card in ATM machines is a very expensive way to get cash. I think Steve discusses this issue somewhere on this site. So my advice is get an ATM/Debit card from your bank if you don't already have one. Hopefully there is still time.
Tony
San Jose, CA USA Sat 04/15/2006

Re: ATM Question
Your questions have been addressed many times on the "ATM's: Minimizing Fees" section of the Graffiti Wall.
M
USA Sat 04/15/2006

Euronight train
You can't book just reservations thru Trenitalia. Maybe your daughter can check with the local station ticket office. If you need sleeper accomodation, you'll have to pay for that, too. Otherwise, Raileurope or Eurail is your only option
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Sat 04/15/2006

ATM question
Dave, Talk to your credit card company before getting cash from your credit card account.To my knowledge,the credit card company starts charging interest the day you take cash out(they call it cash advance) unless you have a credit balance in your account.It's not like a purchase that you will have a grace period not needing to pay interest until the payment is due.So,if you really want to withdraw cash using your credit card,remember to deposit enough money there before leaving for your trip.I hope this helps!
K. Cheung
Burnaby, B.C. canada Sat 04/15/2006

Museums in Amsterdam
We have three days in Amsterdam in early May. I understand that only one hall of the Reiksmuseum (sp?) is open because of renovations. Still worth going to? Should we go to both that and the Van Gogh museum? Any recommendations for smaller, unique museums?
Fran <email>
Fairhope, USA Sat 04/15/2006

ATM question
Someone responded to my question by asking,"why would you want to get charged MUCH higher fees using a credit card instead of ATM card to get cash?" Obviously no one wants to pay higher fees. I am simply asking because I lack ATM experience and I don't know whether what you are calling an ATM card, is a DEBIT card. You seem to be implying that the fee is higher for a credit card withdrawal. Is that the case, or are you referring to the interest which I won't be paying anyway. (I'll be paying off the balance when I get back home.) Thanks for any help.
Dave
McKinleyville, CA USA Sat 04/15/2006

Best way to Book Euronight train from Venice to Brig, Switzerland with Eurail passes
Does anyone know how I can book a Euronight train from Venice to Brig, Switzerland with our Eurail selectpasses ahead of time? I know I can book through RailEuropeor Euraide but I'd like to book through Trenitalia and maybe even have my daughter in Italy pick up the tickets. I don't seem to be having much luck through trenitalia. anyone have any experience with this? thanks Jeff
Jeff Briggs <email>
St. Johnsbury, Vt USA Sat 04/15/2006

ATM question
Dave, why would you want to get charged MUCH higher fees using a credit card instead of ATM card to get cash? You may want to find out exactly what the fees will be (in any case, exorbitant). I found that out when, jetlagged and half-asleep, I used the wrong card.
USA Sat 04/15/2006

venice to the airport, 7:00am flight
need help getting from venice to the airport , for a 7:00 flight
robert MARTINEZ <email>
whittier, ca USA Sat 04/15/2006

ATM Question
You should contact your credit card companies before you go - so they don't put a hold on your card for questionable charges. When you do that - you can also ask them about advance limits. Definitely bring 2-3 credit cards (Mastercard or Visa) in case something happens to one or more of them.
USA Sat 04/15/2006

ATM question
I'm leaving for France in about two weeks. It's my first time there and I seldom use any of my credit cards to get cash from an ATM machine. I'd prefer to charge my advances to a credit card and then pay it off when I get back. I don't plan to remove any money from the savings or checking account. What is the common maximum daily limit I can remove from one of my credit cards? And is it a good idea to take two or three cards, in case of a problem?
Dave
McKinleyville, CA USA Sat 04/15/2006

Joni--Seniors on RS trips
I've taken 5 RS trips in my 60s. I'm healthy and able to walk a few miles; there are a couple of places in Italy where we had to climb lots of stairs and that bothered me some. If your 63 yrs young seniors are healthy, I don't see that there would be a problem. There have been a few people in their 70s and early 80s on the trips I've been on. The only people of any age that I have known to have a physical problem with the tours are those with bad knees. Getting in shape in advance helps. I walk around with my filled backpack-type bag for a few times a week the month before each trip. It's good to be in shape for five miles of walking-hiking to make the trip more enjoyable. I aim for being comfortable walking with my pack about a mile. More than that shouldn't be necessary.
Swan
USA Sat 04/15/2006

Room in Roma
Here's our recomendation for rome, it is the Hotel Amalia, we spent 4 nights there. just blocks from the metro and St. Peters Square. address is 00192 Roma Via Germanico 66, tel 06 39 82 33 56 fax 06 39 72 33 65 and web site is www.hotelamalia.com, very clean and had a large room with bath. Would stay again.
Char <email>
Plant City, FL USA Sat 04/15/2006

Take bug repellent
If you are staying in places that do not have air conditioning this season, be sure to remember to take bug repellent. You have to leave your windows open because of the heat and the mosquitos are really bad in parts of Italy, esp. Venice.
USA Sat 04/15/2006

HELP- Suggestions for Stay in Munich!
HELP!

Dear Friends,

I am hoping you can help us. We (my husband and I) will be in Munich this summer to participate in an language course offered at the Goethe Institute. I am wondering if you know of anyone who has room available or knows of inexpensive apartments that are available from May 29th-July 29th 2006. We do not mind staying with a family or sharing space...we will travel a lot and it would be good for our daughter to be around other children to learn German.

We only need a studio or one room apartment with a double bed (we are students and young scholars/ teachers and need to find inexpensive rooms or studio apartments). Unfortunately, we are not traveling to Munich for the World Cup...so a quiet locale would be nice.

Thank-you, Christine Bentley
Christine <email>
Indianapolis, IN USA Sat 04/15/2006

Italy in August
Kim, we have been to Italy in late July, early August and had a great time. I did find the coastal town of Santa Margherita Liguria to be very crowded and did not even attempt the Cinque Terra. The smaller Tuscan towns were lovely and everything was open in at least Rome and Venice. Best advice for traveling in Italy during the summer - get up early! With our young chldren we would get up, eat, and head out as soon as we could so that things like St. Peters were not too bad - it was actually quite peacful walking all the way from Trevi area to Vatican City in the early morning. We would sightsee for the morning, eat lunch and head back to the hotel for a few hours both to avoid the heat of the day, get a rest from the crowds, and just a bit of quiet time for everyone. Then out again in the early evening so that we could eat without the crowds that come later and then enjoy walking around in the cooler air.
USA Sat 04/15/2006

Cost of Cheap Hostel Style Travel
Don't know when the poster below was traveling but my daughter was very surprised last summer to find out that she could not get hostels for under $20. Their average was 20-25 Euros per person per night. They were in all big cities since they were traveling by train - Barcelona, Nice, Rome, Venice, Amsterdam. It is so easy to search the web to figure out your basic costs - airfare, accomodations, other transportation & cost of attractions. Then the only unknown becomes food and this is one area where they were surprised at how little they could spend. They had maybe one "expensive" meal per day - up to 10E. But they definitely saved by staying in hostels that had cooking facilities or 1E Pizza night (Alessandro's in Rome).
USA Sat 04/15/2006

Buying Train Tickets in Italy
We are traveling to Italy next week. I tried three times to set up a user account at trenitalia.com so I could book train travel. The system requires that they send an email back to me with the password. I didn't get an email any of the times...and I did change my email client to accept "spam" if that was what it appeared like. At this late date it looks like my only option is to show up on Wednesday afternoon in Bologona and get a ticket to Venice...hope it goes smoothly, that they understand me, and that I and my luggage get off the train at the right place. Any suggestions on the best way to buy a ticket once I arrive (I'm flying into Bologna...taking the shuttle to the train station.)
David and Ed <email>
minneapolis, MN USA Sat 04/15/2006

Apartments in Prague
We want to rent an apartment for a week in Prague. Has anyone used www.happyhouserentals.com? Is there another company you would recommend?
Linda <email>
USA Sat 04/15/2006

Airline Advice
My husband and I are traveling to Italy for 17 days at the end of August. We are trying to choose an airline--can anyone give us advice about AirFrance?
Kate <email>
houston, TX USA Sat 04/15/2006

venice to the airport, 7:00am flight
Which airport? There are two "Venice" airports. The primary one, Marco Polo, serves most mainline airlines and is closer. Treviso serves RyanAir and is over an hour away.
CO USA Sat 04/15/2006

Venice to the airport, 7:00am flight
You have 3 options.

1)The speediest and most costly, about 80 Euro, is the water taxi taxi. This will take you directly from your hotel to the airport in 30 mins.

2) The Alilaguna speedboat starts at 4:20am at the Zattere vaporetto, then to San Marco/Giardinetti vaporetto. This takes about 70 mins and costs 10 Euro. Check out www.alilaguna.com or pick-up a brochure at the aforementioned vaporetto stops.

3) Take the vaporetto to Piazzale Roma, then take the ATVO bus to the airport. The busses don't start until 5:30, so this might be cutting it too close. I'ts only 3 Euro, but probably not worth the stress so early in the morning.
Lisa
San Jose, CA USA Sat 04/15/2006

Starr
Starr- You might want to check out apartment or flat rentals in those cities. We will be traveling to Brussels this summer and have found an apartment for us and our two boys for 80 euros a night. Sometimes you have to stay a week- sometimes less. Do a web search "apartment rental (city)". Good luck!
L.
Chicago, IL USA Sat 04/15/2006

Kimberley @ $75/day
I have gone to Europe for the last 4 years at approx $80/day p/p . 2 persons sharing a hotel room (always RS recommendations), museums, train tickets, weeks car rental incl gas, all food but no souvenir shopping. Stay disciplined, be practical and picnic alot. Skip cocktails/restaurants and shopping as these will blow your budget.
Ca USA Sat 04/15/2006

SparSchiene Wien train tickets
I have seen special SparSchiene Wien train tickets from Ljubljana to Vienna for 29 euros each on a first come first serve basis. Does anyone know how I could purchase a pair of these tickets departing from Ljubljana at 08:00 31/05/2006? Online or Phone (in english), e-mail or at last resort through the mail? Travel agent? We're in California now leaving for croatia 13/05/2006, Thanks, John & Robin
John & Robin
ATASCADERO, Ca USA Fri 04/14/2006

Rick's tours
Joni, Somewhere I remember reading that Rick's tours are rather strenuous. I think you should call or e-mail and ask them personally what is involved.
USA Fri 04/14/2006

Spain
My wife and sister-in-law are going to be hiking/camping in the Pyrenees Mountains. So, here's the question we need to find fuel for the stove. They are flying into Barcelona and renting a car to drive to the Pryrenees. It's a canister fuel here's a link to a compatible canister http://www.rei.com/product/870049.htm?vcat=REI_SSHP_CAMPING_TOC

Any help will be GREATLY appreciated!! Thanks, Geoff
Geoff <email>
Hillsborough, NJ USA Fri 04/14/2006

University Stays in the **US**
Does anyone know of a book, website or other source that lists which universities in the US open up their dorm rooms for cheap, no frills, but longer term stays? I can't seem to turn up ANYTHING
Lew <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Fri 04/14/2006

$$$ $50 a day in Europe
Yes you can do Europe for $50 a day, easily. I have done it in London, Paris, and Rome. At about $15 a day for the hostels, you then have $35 for food, transportation and entertainment. Last time I was in Italy, fresh sandwiches and pizza were only $2.50 each. You don't need any Hostel memberships to book hostels. Just book at www.hostels.com or www.hostelworld.com. Also you can find many great hostels in the heart of the city. My only advice is DO YOUR RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET BEFORE YOU GO! I am going to Germany, Italy and Croatia in 3 weeks and I have researched every last detail, from bus/train routes, to hostels, directions, cost of attractions, etc. That is the biggest resource. Or go to a big book store and do your research in the travel books. Have fun!
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Fri 04/14/2006

Rooms in Rome for Ray
Ray, A great place to stay is Hotel Giardino in Rome. WWW.hotel-giardino-roma.com . I stayed here last year and I will be staying here again this May. We got a room for 4 for under 200.00, with Rick Steves book. An English Women Kate runs it. It has very nice rooms with breakfast. Also walking distance to all the must see's. Good Luck
Lynn <email>
Victoria, BC Canada Fri 04/14/2006

Hotels with kids
Hello. Can anyone recommend hotels in London, Paris, Salzburg and/or Rome that can accomdate 2 adutls and 3 children (10, 8, and 5) in one room without being too cramped or that has adjoining rooms? Please email me direclty. Thank-you in advance!
Starr <email>
Parker, CO USA Fri 04/14/2006

Dear Liz meet where the bus departs for Milano. Easy to find, look for the sign showing a bus.
USA Fri 04/14/2006

Car Rental in Eastern Europe
To K. Cheung - Not sure where you plan to start your trip or if you still have flexibility, but consider renting in Ljubljana, Slovenia. A couple of years ago, I rented a car there for travel into Croatia. There were no country restrictions and Budget offered a very good rate. They have 2 locations - airport and downtown. Budget also gave me a great map - better than the Michelin map I bought for the trip. Renting in Croatia would have come with lots of travel restrictions - same problem you're having. Slovenia is in your loop, and either Ljubljana or Lake Bled would be a nice relaxing place to begin and/or end your trip. Hope this helps.
Frank
Wilmington, DE USA Fri 04/14/2006

Italy in August
My husband and I are traveling to Italy in August. What tips/suggestions do you have for going during this time. It is a naive questio, but are things in the cities even open? Are the costal towns too busy to enjoy? I would love any input that you have. Thanks in advance for your help.
Kim <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 04/14/2006

Money questions
We are Cruising in May and Dubruvnik, Croatia is one of our destinations.Does Anyone know if you can use Euros there or is it only Croatian money Kunas). Any info about Dubruvnik would be helpful.
Angela <email>
Toronto, Ontario Canada Fri 04/14/2006

Shipping Luggage
Thanks, Bobby--I will definitely ask the price to store luggage. Actually I need to SHIP and STORE luggage. I need to 1) ship luggage from Venice to Rome, and 2) store luggage for several weeks in Rome (while we travel). I have written to Italian UPS offices--no answer yet.
USA Fri 04/14/2006

meet-up spot at malpensa airport?
Can anyone suggest a good meet-up spot in Malpensa airport in Milan? We're starting our Italian trip there with my parents -- and we'll be arriving on different flights, about an hour apart. Haven't been there before and would like to be able to designate a spot in advance. Preferably a spot after the customs/immigration stop, where jet-lagged pre-teens and/or seniors could be relatively comfortable while waiting for an hour or two. Any suggestions?
Liz
Minneapolis, MN USA Fri 04/14/2006

Joni senior trip to Italy
Joni, all I can add is that my father took his very first trip to Europe...actually to Italy on a Globus bus tour. this is similar to Rick's tours. He was in his late 70's. He did great. Only issues he had 1. he was the only "single" person on the tour (my mother had passed away, he was lonely) 2. He fell on the Spanish Steps and broke his camera.

If you "train" by walking several miles a day before your trip, I'm sure you will be fine. Today's 60's are yesterday's 80's! Unless you have medical issues, or are very overweight and out of shape....a bus tour is EASY. I'm sure you can always choose which adventure you do or pass. you could easily walk around Pompei for example, but perhaps walking the 1,000 feet to the top of Mt Vesuvio might be too hard.

Go and Enjoy!! How can you deny yourself this adventure?
USA Fri 04/14/2006

Hostels
If you wil be staying in hostels, you also may need to factor in additional costs as many hostels require you to be a member of the national/regional/etc. hostel group. You can pay a small fee per night or join for the year - the latter much more economical if your trip lasts more than a week or so. As well, you may need to pay for bed linens since not all hostels permit sleeping bags, and breakfast may be extra.

Also, there definately will be a difference in cost - UK isn't cheap, and in Scandinavia, hostels tend to be very nice, but not as cheap. And the cheaper hostels may often being further from city centres, and thus you incur more transportation costs to get to sightseeing locations.

For instance, to stay in a hostel in Edinburgh (UK) is anywhere from 20 to 35 Euros per night, plus an additional 1.5 Euros per night if you are not a member of the SYHA or the International Youth Hostels Association.

On the other hand, in Copenhagen, a sleep-in will cost about 15 Euros per night, while a hostel will cost around 20 Euros plus YHA membership fee, and extra costs for bed linens and breakfast.(Sleep ins are much simpler than hostels and offer fewer services).

There's no way to figure out a budget without putting together a general schedule - costs depend on city, country and time of year. Once you know where and when you be travelling, then you can look at hostel and food prices. Also, it's always a good idea to include some extra money in your budget in case of the unexpected.
Kate
Scotland Fri 04/14/2006

Italy trip
Sorry, I'am asking about a RS tour to Italy.
Joni
USA Fri 04/14/2006

Paris Shopping for Teenagers
Printemps Department Store has a free fashion show Tuesdays and Fridays (check their brochure/Paris map for updated schedule - they're found at the airport, every hotel and all over Paris.) It's a fun way to spend an hour, especially if you've never been to a runway show before. There are quite a few grand department stores in the same neighborhood (near the Opera,) as well as specialty boutiques.

The Latin Quarter is a good place to find hip and vintage clothing shops, especially if you wander off the main tourist streets. In Montmartre, the street at the base of the hill leading up to Sacre Coeur is lined with fabric, accessory, and notion shops.

If they want to window shop the haute couture, which is always fun, Coco Channel's original shop is on a narrow street behind the Ritz Hotel, as well as a number of other high fashion places.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Fri 04/14/2006

SHIPPING LUGGAGE OR STORAGE
You ask about shipping luggage, but you must mean storing luggage.

Yes most “LEFT LUGGAGE” Offices will hold your luggage for as long as you require, but the cost will dazzle you .

Be sure to ask the charge for holding it that long.
BOBBY
DALLAS, TX USA Fri 04/14/2006

$$$$ QUESTION
Think about how much you spend for breakfast, lunch and dinner normally. You will be able to find places to eat with cost within your range.

Add to that $20 a night average for a hostel bunk in a dorm. If you prefer a private room, that will cost you $30 a night average.

You can estimate the amount you will need for travel by researching trains and planes on the web. It is not hard to do, but it does take time; so you must decide how much you want the information. Or you can work with a travel agent who can estimate your money needs better than you can.

Take an ATM card and you will not run out of money if you keep enough money in your checking account. Call your bank and tell them you will be using your card in Europe.

DONT take travelers checks or foreign currency. Buying it here is costly and using your ATM card in those countries will provide the best exchange rate and lowest fees.
USA Fri 04/14/2006

TRAVEL IN EASTERN EUROPE
K Cheung: I have taken a car in Frankfurt and driven through those countries several times. Be aware that most rental agencies prohibit their cars from being driven into Eastern Europe because of theft.

You must request a car that can be driven into those countries. Be sure you request that car when you start negotiating with the rental agency.

And be sure to read your contract when you take the car to be sure it states the countries you can drive into.

Don’t rent off the web. Instead use the toll free phone number and talk with an agent.

As for safety, don’t be concerned. You will be as safe in those countries as anywhere in W. Europe if you take the normal precautions in travel.

Always keep your possessions out of sight. Some travelers suggest you spread old newspapers and trash around the inside of your van so it looks like a native’s car and not a tourist.

I always leave a lot of empty bottles and cartons plus newspapers. Park in a lighted place at night if possible.

I have found it worth the cost to park my car on in a parking garage or parking lot because it should be safer there.
USA Fri 04/14/2006

Rome Hotel Help Posting of 4/12/06
Thanks to the following Responders. Alexandra (Aberdeen -booked); Sue (Oceania - Booked); Rick's Guide Book (Yep all are booked in mid-priced range $$); Vickie (www.hitaly.com very helpful); Sally (Alexandra - Booked); USA (La Pergola Questionable see http://rome-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g187791-d258996-r1387943-Hotel_La_Pergola-Rome_Lazio.html) Rick (Hotel Canada - Booked); Connie (Nardizz Booked); Dean (Good recommendation - I'm attempting to secure a reservation - will post when and if secured. Thanks to everyone who responded to my plea for help. Ray
Ray <email>
Columbus, Ohio USA Fri 04/14/2006

italy trip
Joni, Are you asking about the RS tours or a vacation you're scheduling your self?
USA Fri 04/14/2006

italy trip
My only concern in taking this trip is it to difficut for two "young" 63 year olds?? Are there many seniors who are able to handle this trip or is it for younger people??

Thanks,
Joni <email>
Shelby Township, , Mi USA Fri 04/14/2006

Paris shopping for teenagers
Need suggestions for trendy/hip shopping places. Also places for vintage clothing and accessorises.
Kathy
Ventura, CA USA Fri 04/14/2006

Thanks everone for the good advice
Thanks to all who have posted their advice and experiences here over the past few months. I just returned Wednesday from a successful 12 day trip in France due in part from what I have learned from the experience of others. Having said that, I will gladly answer any questions about my experience. I don't claim to be an expert traveler but I can tell you what the tourist experience was last week in Paris, Normandy, Sarlat, and Amboise. I also had positive experiences with car rental and traveling without reservations(literally and figuratively).
Dan
Bremerton, WA USA Fri 04/14/2006

RS room rates
Keep in mind that the books are printed months in advance, so rates will change...also the EU changes against the dollar too! Rates will go up. Expect it.
USA Fri 04/14/2006

Room rates vs RS
I found one hotel in Italy with a higher rate than that quoted in RS Italy 2006. I didn't have any luck requesting the hotel to lower the rate to honor RS, and I wrote to RS as directed to inform them. I never heard back. It was a difference of only E10 per night, but I still thought RS should know about it.
Margie
Oakland, CA USA Fri 04/14/2006

Amsterdam
Must sees in Amsterdam include, Rijks Museum, Van Gough museum, Amsterdam Museum, Royal Palace, Hidden Church, WWII resistance museum, Hermitage, Zoo, and a visit to nearby Haarlem on the weekend. I highly recomend you buy Rick's guidebook for Amsterdam.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Fri 04/14/2006

Madame Tussaud's Amsterdam vs. London
The London one is better mostly because it is much bigger. Having said that, the one in Amsterdam is still worth seeing, but if you have to choose one choose London. If your going to be visiting in the summer, buy your tickets in advance via their website, so you don't have to wait in any long lines. As far as the wax models go, they more or less have the same selection, but the one in Amsterdam focuses a bit more on Dutch soccer players/celebrtites.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Fri 04/14/2006

Room rates vs RS listing in guidebooks
Has anyone else been getting some higher quotes from hotels than the RS range in the guidebooks?

For example the Hotel Hayden in Vienna, RS offers the range of 90-100 for a double w/bathroom and then a 10% discount for cash & his book. When I emailed for availability, perhaps I did something wrong but I mentioned having the RS book so I'd get an accurate quote. Most Vienna hotels listed say lower rate applies in July-August which is when we'll be there, but I just got their email back and the rate starts at 110E and then they take off the 10% for the book which leaves it at the high rate.

It's not a deal breaking amount over and I don't mind paying it if it isn't a rip off. But something feels a little off about pumping up the price and then taking off the discount to keep the rate higher. Especially since most of the places we've booked so far went with RS quoted rate right down the line.

One other hotel offered a 10E higher amount, but we assumed that was a summer season surcharge and weren't concerned, but it sounds like Vienna is usually cheaper during July-Aug and not more expensive.

Should I be concerned about this? and should I not mention RS book until after they make the initial quote? I hate to play games, I just want them to tell me if the have rooms and what they'll charge so I can get my rooms booked with a minimum of fuss.

What info to you make sure to get from the hotel before you send the credit card number to hold the room?

Thanks so much!
USA Fri 04/14/2006

Travelling in Eastern Europe
Our group of 6 people will be going to Europe for 5 weeks in July/August.Will lease a van to travel to Austria,Poland,Czech,Hungary,Slovenia, Slovakia and Croatia.Has anyone done something similar to this and can give us advice?We are concerned about the safety in these countries. Thanks!
K. Cheung
Burnaby, B.C. Canada Thu 04/13/2006

I believe the official website for Dachau is at www.kz-gedenkstaette-dachau.de/englisch/content/.

Admission is free. You can rent a tape quide or you can take a quided tour for a few Euro. The guided tour takes about 2 1/2 hrs.
<email>
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Convert the bag, baby
Mike. Liters and cubic inches (or cubic anything) are units of volume, so I wonder if you are really asking how much you will get into a bag of X number cu.in. or liters. Think of 1 cubic inch as a 3 dimensional block of wood 1 inch on each of its 6 sides. 50 cu.in would be big enough to hold 50 of those 1-inch-on-a-side blocks. Or, if it is in liters, consider 1 liter equivalent to a U.S. quart (95 liters equal 100 quarts). The common trash bag usually called a kitchen bag is 13 gallons or about 13 x 4=52 liters, so a 50 or so liter bag would hold about what you could get into a kitchen garbage bag. Unless you have very heavy clothes or fill it with a lot of non-clothing items, it will likely weigh less than about 20 pounds. A standard size bag such as a 9" x 21" x14" rectangle back pack goes at about 2600 cu. in. and if is "expandable" it could go to about 3000 cu. in. On a plane, the expanded bag usually cannot go carry on.
hg
ILL USA Thu 04/13/2006

$$$ Question
First, I believe that if you are having to ask that question, you shouldn't be going. If you had done proper research, you would have some idea of what hostels are available and how much they cost.

There is going to be a difference in the expected cost between northern Europe and Mediterranean countries.

I prefer to look at expenses in Euro, not US$, because the prices in Euro are more stable than the exchange rate. Two trips ago, the Euro was $.98. It was much easier to make the trip for $45 per person then than it was on my last trip when the Euro was $1.25.

I also don’t include airfare in my calculations, since it is such a variable. The airfare for someone from Boston flying to London in March is not much like the airfare for someone from Los Angeles flying to Athens in July.

Transportation in Europe is also a big variable. You spend a lot more going from Paris to Rome to Prague than you do just bumming around southern Germany and Italy. But if you have a rail pass, or a good idea of where you are going, you can know those costs in advance.

On my last two trips to Europe, I spent about 45 to 50 Euro per person per day for food and room. I didn’t scrimp, but I wasn’t spend thrift either. I stayed in small, family run hotels and pensions in small towns – the real Europe. I reserved these in advance on the internet. If you try to find a place to stay each night, you will spend more. I spent around 20 – 25 Euro per person per night.

As for meals, everyplace I stayed provided breakfast, so that took care of one meal. My other two meals cost me just over 20 Euro, including 4 Euro for beverages.
<email>
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Madame Tussaud's Amsterdam vs. London
Madame Tussaud's Amsterdam or London? Which is better? The London is much more expensive, does the = a better experience? Which stars are at each? Any info is appreciated. Thank you.
Sarah
Lynnwood, WA USA Thu 04/13/2006

Amsterdam?
What are the "must-sees" for Amsterdam? So far, we are for sure going to Anne Frank's House. Also most likely a sex museum, which is better the Erotic Museum or Venus Temple? What else is good to do? The Jewish Museum? Castles? What in the Red Light District? Thanks!
Kristina <email>
Seattle, WA USA Thu 04/13/2006

Oops!
Sorry! I meant Munich!! Too many cities in my mind at the moment ( : I found a good site with lots of info, except how long tours last. Are they guided or are you free to walk around? Thanks!!
Kimberly
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Dachau
You're not going to do Dachau as a half day side trip from Berlin. It is a suburb of Munich, not Berlin.

In Munich, Dachau is easily accessible by bus from the Dachau S-bahn stop.
CO USA Thu 04/13/2006

Berlin-Dachau??
I am going to Germany as part of my 6-week European vacation. We are wanting to go to Dachau as a side day trip (half-day?) from Berlin. We cannot find a bus, all sites say not available for this day or some other problem. Has anyone done this as a side trip from Berlin? Is there a bus? How long will it take? What city is it technically in, or is the city called Dachau? Whats a good site with info on pricing etc..? Thanks.
Kimberly <email>
Seattle, WA USA Thu 04/13/2006

RE: $$$
$$$ Question:

I am going to Europe for 6 weeks this summer for the first time also and am doing the hosteling thing. We are planning on apprx $4,000 for the entire trip. So that breaks down to $105 per day technically. But that includes our plane tickets there and back. Minus the plane tickets its around $75 a day. We are staying in the cheapest hostels possible. I am not sure how one could do it on $50 a day, i'd like to see it! But I suppose where theres a will, theres a way! Where are you traveling to?
Kimberly
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Accommodation in Frankfurt
We are flying into Frankfurt in the evening and catching the train to Venice the next day. Any suggestions of a clean, quiet,safe place to stay for a family of four with jet lag?
Mave <email>
Prince George, B.C. Canada Thu 04/13/2006

Paris - Seine River Cruise
Kelly, I recommend the regular Bateaux Mouches (or other similar) rides without dinner because the view out on the open deck is so much more spectacular than from inside the glass enclosure. Especially if you go all the way up to the front-- or the very back-- of the boat. (Just be sure to dress warmly because it's windy up there). Every time I go back to paris, I have to take two boat rides-- one day time and one at night.
Fiona
NYC, Thu 04/13/2006

FERRY QUESTION
Lisa: I have ridden ferries all over the world and cant say the time required to get off a ferry has ever been a concern.

Without timing it, I would guess it will take you only minutes.

Maybe two or three if you stand at the ramp while the ferry is docking you can be the first one off.
MARY S.
RENO, USA Thu 04/13/2006

Shipping by UPS in Italy
On several trips to Italy I have seen UPS trucks (even boats in Venice!!) and the logo and the workers uniforms look identical to ours here. I assumed that it was "our" UPS company just working in Italy. I think it would operate similar to the one here. Why don't you call your local UPS office and ask them if they serve Italy?
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Train reservation to Venice
Lisa, If you are wanting a couchette for your trip to Venice, you should reserve it before you leave. In my experience, Italian trains don't have an excess of couchettes and many of them will be gone if you wait to book it the day you want to use it. Just my suggestion.
USA Thu 04/13/2006

re: $$$ Question
I have read several answers to this question on this website. Some say you can do it for $40 a day, some say $50 a day, one person said at least have access to $100 a day. Somes days will be less and some more of course.
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Betty -- Near London Lunch
Betty -- Windsor is quite near Heathrow, easily accessed by bus. You can wander Windsor and Eaton. As for lunch, there is a delightful pub off the beaten track called the Two Brewers. Starting from where you exit Windsor Castle, bear left. At any turning you come to, just keep left. You will eventually (~7-10 minutes walk) come to a gate to a park. This was the start of the old road to London. Looking towards the park, its on the left. I learned of the place from one of the warders at the castle exit, so if you need more precise directions, they can tell you.
Tom
St. Louis, MO USA Thu 04/13/2006

$$$ Question
I'm planning a 2 months backpacking trip across Europe this summer. This will be my first trip outside the US. If I plan on traveling as cheaply as possible, staying in hostels and such, how much money should I have? I'm afriad if I run out of cash in the middle of my trip, I will be left broke and stranded in a foreign county. What a scary thought.
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Paris - Seine River Cruise
Depends why you want to go. I booked the dinner cruise on the Bateaux Mouches for our 25th wedding anniversary a couple of years ago, and I won brownie points for life! Very romantic, and worth the cost for that one-shot deal.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 04/13/2006

Shipping Luggage
Jeff...or anyone...do you know if the checked baggage office in Rome would hold the luggage for 3 weeks?
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Ferry Question
Lisa, Looks like it's 4.5 hours from Ancona to Split. I found this at http://www.cemar.it/dest/ferries_croatia.htm
Sally <email>
USA Thu 04/13/2006

RE: Jennifer and Oyster cards
Jennifer -- you can actually get the equivalent of a 7 day travel pass using the Oyster card. The card (when I was in London for New Year's) was approx. 21 GBP. This includes a deposit for the card. Also, once you get it, you can recharge it either at a station or online if you register the card. The card will pay for itself in no time as it is also good on busses. Finally, instead of putting the 7 Day Travel pass on the Oyster, you can just put cash on it and it debits as you go.
Tom
St. Louis, MO USA Thu 04/13/2006

RE: Jason and laptops in Europe
Jason -- wow, that sounds fantastic! I travel on occasion for work all over the world with a laptop. As far as "in-room high speed internet access" goes, my experience has been that it is at least similar to what you'd find in the US. I would, however, recommend a wireless card for your laptop in addition to your standard NIC. Some hotels (usually the smaller ones I've stayed in) offer high speed access, but only via wireless in the lobby or lounge; doesnt bother me as I can check email and take a coffee at the same time. :) As to brand of laptop? Thats a bit tougher. It all depends on what you want, and what sort of weight youre willing to put up with. I see lots of Dells on the road as well as lots of Sony Viaos. Its a weight vs durability thing -- Dells seem to be more rugged, Viaos are lighter.
Tom
St. Louis, MO USA Thu 04/13/2006

Jennifer - Spain & Portugal
I spent a month in these two last year (2005). Flew into Barcelona and out of Lisbon. Incorporated a RS tour in the middle of the month. Would not change a thing i did. Be sure to go onto RS web sites for his tours and print out his route for his S&P tour for advice. Only complaint: the people in those countries eat dinner about 9PM - most restrauants aren't open until about 8PM - I usually eat at 5 or 6 so adaptation was necessary - late big breakfast and late big lunch.
Charlie <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Thu 04/13/2006

Ferry question
Has anyone taken a ferry from Ancona (Italy)to Split (Croatia)? I need to know how long it takes to get on and off the ferry? We need to make reservations for a train to Venice upon arrival in Ancona.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, ca USA Thu 04/13/2006

Spain & Portugal
Two must sees....Granada and Sevilla...Granada for the Alhambra (the last Moorish city to fall to the Christians in 1492), and Sevilla because it's Sevilla! Also, the white villages south and SE of Sevilla....Morocco for a day trip, and Gibraltar. Travel by fast train (AVE) is good between major centers. But the bus is just as fast as many regional trains, and far less expensive (if you're not renting a car).
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 04/13/2006

Rome Taxi
The phrase "supplements might be asked for luggage" seems to be just a not-so-perfect translation. Rome cab drivers can collect supplements for luggage that is larger than 35x25x50 centimeters. So possibly "might" means if you have such large luggage, you could be charged more....but maybe you'll get lucky and you won't be charged. It's only about a euro extra per big bag. Be aware as well that the drop charges (starting rates) for taxis are about 45 per cent higher on Sundays and holidays, and slightly more than double at night (10 pm to 7 am). But I prefer the train, anyway.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Canada Thu 04/13/2006

Carryon bag size
I am not quite sure what dimensions one should look for in a carryon bag. The dimension I most often see quoted for the allowable size of carryons is 55cm x 40cm x 20 cm. - 44 liters or 2685 cu. in.

However, I don't know what is most important, the total volume or the three max dimensions. Is it possible that none of the three dimensions can be exceeded, or can you carry on something 8"x 8" and 43" long?

Fortunately, I don't have to worry. My ETBD carryon bag, when packed to the Lufthansa limit of 17.6#, is underfilled and so limp and pliable that it can be pushed into almost any configuration.
<email>
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Spain & Portugal - So Many Questions
Help! I am planning a trip to Spain and Portugal in mid October. Will have about 14 days. Current idea is to fly into Barcelona and out of Lisbon. Would love any advice people can provide. This will be my first European trip and I have so many questions. I have Rick's Europe Through the Back Door 2006 and it has given me all sorts of good tips and am going to pick up the Spain and Portugal books, but wanted some hands on advice from people that have been. Any guidence you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
Jennifer <email>
Van Nuys, CA USA Thu 04/13/2006

London-Brussels? What Transportation
Stacy...you don't say how far in advance your trip is...but you can fly fm LHR to Brussels aboard the former British Midlands airlines, now known as BMI, for as little as 13 pounds each way, about 25 bucks U-S. That'll save you the hassle of making your way into London itself. Check out www.bmibaby.com. Eurostar will charge 29.50 pounds each way, IF you buy a roud-trip ticket. That means you have to get from the airport to London Waterloo station. www.eurostar.com. Then there's the bus...8 1/2 hours minimum from the Victoria coach station (at the train station of the same name) to Brussels. Returns of about 41 pounds (37 for those under 26) and one-way promo fares as low as 18 pounds. Several overnight buses as well, if you want to save a night on hotel costs. See www.nationalexpress.com
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 04/13/2006

Seine River Cruise
Our family of four is going to do the Fat Tire Bike Tour at night and it includes a Seine River cruise so we will get to see Paris lit up by bike and boat!
Alexandra Martella <email>
Longmont, CO USA Thu 04/13/2006

Hotel in Rome
We chose to stay at Hotel Aberdeen another Rick Steves pick in July. I went to Trip Advisor and between that site and comments from this board, the consensus was that Aberdeen was much nicer. There were quite a few bad reviews about Hotel Oceania.
Alexandra Martella <email>
Longmont, CO USA Thu 04/13/2006

Shipping Luggage
You might consider sending the bags by rail. Take them to the checked baggage office in Venice and pay to have the shipped to Rome. They will hold them until you arrive to pick them up.
Jeff Keller
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Conversion
1 liter = 61 cubic inches

go to Google and type in "volume conversion"
tom
summerville, sc USA Thu 04/13/2006

Lunch layover in London Part III
I forgot to mention a tip...

When you check in your bags at LAX make sure you visually verify that the tags they attach to your bags say "CDG" and not "LHR". That way you can be assured that they will eventually arrive in Paris - hopefully on the same plane that you do :-)
Tony
San Jose, CA USA Thu 04/13/2006

Lunch layover in London Part III
In the 90s I flew United to Gothenburg via Heathrow many times - frequently with long layovers at LHR. (The LHR to GOT leg was on SAS) I always checked my bags at SFO and didn't see them again until I got to GOT. Only ever had one problem - my bag arrived in GOT about an hour after I did. And they brought it to my hotel.

In other words, if United says they'll hold on to your bag, take them up on it. It will make your layover easier.
Tony
San Jose, C USA Thu 04/13/2006

OFF SEASON IN BERNER OBERLAND
I agree with others that staying in Interlaken is best. I have visited those small towns in off season and everything seems to be closed.

At least in Interlaken we found our choice of hotels and restaurants. And there are two RR stations so you can be within walking distance of the train.
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Rome Taxi - Official Airport Jargon
Yes, but that phrase "Supplements might be asked for luggage" leaves the tourist wide open for being officially ripped-off. Avoiding Taxis at the Airport and at Termini is, IMO, and very good way to reduce (not eliminate) your chances of being ripped-off by taxis. Either take the train, arrange for a private driver, or reserve a seat on the shuttle bus...
Tim
USA Thu 04/13/2006

PARIS SEINE RIVER CRUISE
KELLY: I agree with other posters that the river cruise is worth the cost.

There is no other experience like it even though the cost is high.

I called it my European trip splurge and it was the only one I indulged in .

I don’t remember the line, but I took the first one I found so I can recommend doing that. I would do it again in a ny minute.
DALLAS, TX USA Thu 04/13/2006

Shipping within Italy
I need to ship 2 pieces of luggage from Venice to Rome. Does anyone know if the Italy UPS is reliable?
USA Thu 04/13/2006

CRETE HOLIDAY
We will be in Crete during the St. John the Baptist Feast in June 2006. We are not super religeous but would like to spend the holiday with locals. Does anyone have a suggestion for a smaller beach village/hotel to spend the three day holiday at? Looking for a non-tourist area if possible.
Dennis Mozeleski <email>
Santa Cruz, CA USA Thu 04/13/2006

Rome taxi
From the official website of Rome airports (click for English and for Fiumicino), "We recommend that you use only authorised taxis (white vehicles with a taximeter) available at the arrivals areas of each terminal.

The aproximative fare for a run to the center of Rome is about € 40.00. Supplements might be asked for luggage, night-time runs and public holidays.
CO USA Thu 04/13/2006

Paris River Cruise
We went on the dinner cruise last August. A very expensive meal, but our one big splurge on a 9 week trip! Well worth the money in our opinion. A really nice meal, a good live band with an Edith Piaf type singer in both English and French. Saw the city from a different perspective with bridges and buildings lit up and arrived back at the Eiffel Tower just as it sparkled at 11:oopm! A great end to a beautiful evening. We used Bateaux Parisiens www.bateuaxparisiens.com, but our hotel (Londres Eiffel - in Rick's book) booked it for us at no charge.
Iain
Edmonton, AB Canada Thu 04/13/2006

Lunch Layover in London - Storing Luggage
Since I've never flown to London on United, I'll leave it to someone who has to comment on leaving your bags with the airline. However, FYI, there are left-luggage facilities at the London airports which you can use if need be.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 04/13/2006

Taxi in Rome
John, Unless you are in a large party, I would just take the train from the airport to the termini in Rome. It is fast and easy and cheap. Then you can catch a taxi from in front of the train station. Just be sure you get a "real" one.
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Bag volume
You weren't real specific as to what you want to convert, but there are 61 cu. in. to a liter.
<email>
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Lunch layover in London Part III
Last question -- promise!

United has promised to keep my bags during my 8 hour layover in London -- before proceeding to Paris.

Is this true? Would someone please confirm if they've done this.

Want to be sure I won't have to worry about stashing my bags for my quick run to London for lunch!

Thanks again to ALL for the help!
Betty
Los Angeles, ca USA Thu 04/13/2006

Paris - Seine River Cruise
Has anyone been on good night cruise on the Seine River that they would recommend? Is it worth the cost for the dinner cruise?
Kelly
AL USA Thu 04/13/2006

Doolin, Ireland
Any recommendations for accomodations while in the Doolin Ireland area?
Anne
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Hotel in Rome
We stayed at Hotel Oceania in Rome. It is right around the corner from a subway stop and very close to train station. Great location. Clean, neat,affordable, decent breakfast, free internet, and very friendly staff. A RS recommendation and a good choice. Ciao! http://www.hoteloceania.it/
Sue
OH USA Thu 04/13/2006

Convert that Bag, baby!
I've got a question about bags. I've read all about the carry on dimensions, but when I go to look for a bag, their sizes are listed in cubic inches and liters. Is there anyone with a reference as to how to convert the two?
Mike <email>
Corcoran, MN USA Thu 04/13/2006

Rome taxi
Honestly, 60 euros is not that bad (as long as it is not 60 per person). You would probably spend around 50 euros taking a cab, and depending on how many people and how much luggage you have, maybe more. Fiumicino airport is a ways out of town, and there is usually a surcharge for going to/from the airport and for luggage. At least if your hotel picked you up, you know it wouldn't be more than 60 euros, and you know they will take you right to the hotel.
Chicago, USA Thu 04/13/2006

Rome taxi
Does anyone know the cost of a taxi from the airport to the center of Rome? Our hotel wants to charge 60 euros. We said no.
John Conder <email>
Leland, MI USA Thu 04/13/2006

London-Brussels? What Transportation???
A friend and I will be flying in and out of London and need to get to Brussels. Whats the most economical way? (I keep getting confused looking at the chunnel and ferry tables) Many Thanks! =)
Stacy
Fl USA Thu 04/13/2006

Off-season in the Berner Oberland
I have traveled in the Berner-Oberland off-season and I do recomend staying in Interlaken. You are correct that a lot hotels in the smaller mountain towns do shut down, but if you look hard enough you can find something that is still operating. Problem is that most all the grocery stores and restaurants will be closed, so you would have to travel to Interlaken to buy essentials anyway. Save yourself a lot of hastle stay in Interlaken.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Thu 04/13/2006

SHORT STAY BETWEEN BUDAPEST AND PARIS
Steve: By all means, visit Switzerland or Austria if you have time. Five days will give you plenty of time to see lots of sights.

Travel by train is monotonous, but the scenery is great. Flying is costly on that route, but time-saving. That means it will be your personal choice.
M. A. T.
CHICAGO, USA Thu 04/13/2006

AIRPORT SECURITY MONEY BELT AND NECK POUCH
You will get a lot of advice on neck pouches and money belts on this page. I have worn both in 15 years of travel.

I like the neck pouch much better because it is easier to bring up to get to and to put back.

I never take it off going through security and it never sets off the alarm.
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Where to stay in Budapest
We're ready to start making our Budapest accomadations, but its a little hard since we still haven't found a current Budapest guidebook so our "must sees" are not as well formed as we'd like before choosing where to stay. Based on advice from Hungarian friends we want to be sure to see the Castle, Parliment, maybe do dinner and a show on the Danube, Turkish bath, and the Chain Bridge.

We're coming in on the train, will use public trans while there, and will be leaving on the train for Vienna. RS seems to feel that the Pest area is better since the tourist things to do are there. On the Pest side the listings for Cotton House interested us because of the themed roomm and Ragtime music (but that is not all Hungarian), and the Hold was good for location. The Hotel that interests us the most because of location in Castle District is Kulturinnov, but it sounds like we'd be far from the train station.

I also got a word of mouth reference for the Astoria. Can anyone who's been there let me in on transportation issues we should have before booking? Also RS said there is one weekend of Formula 1 racing in August that fills up all the rooms. Does anyone know when that week is because if we're to be there at the same time, we might cut out Budapest this trip?

Thanks
Courtney <email>
USA Thu 04/13/2006

Jenny--Lighten Your Load
Get Rick's book and learn to follow the three rules regarding luggage--pack light, pack light, pack light. Once you experience traveling with two larger suitcases you will NEVER do it again. It will definitely impact your trip in a negative way and no one NEEDS that much stuff. It is already causing concern and you haven't left yet, wait until you start babysitting it everywhere and lugging it around. As far as the train stations, yes it is safe to rent lockers and leave luggage there for the day while you take day trips. Some stations also check them at a window where they are watched until you return. I have never had a problem doing this or heard of anyone else having trouble.
Anna
La Conner , WA USA Wed 04/12/2006

Rome hotel
On the Graffiti Wall go under "Rick's Guidebooks" and then under "Rome 2006". There are many hotels mentioned by people who have written in to this site. They can't all be full!!
USA Wed 04/12/2006

Rome Hotel
Ray: I will be traveling to Rome on May 23 with a group of 20. We will be staying at the Hotel Farnesina. It's 4/5 star rating from trip advisor. Small only 28 rooms. Very nice location.
Jeff
USA Wed 04/12/2006

Off-season in the Berner Oberland
My girlfriend and I will be in the Berner Oberland area of Switzerland at the end of April. Since this is off-season there, many hotels and restaurants appear to be closed then, and we are considering staying in Interlaken to have a place to eat and things to do. We would prefer to stay in Lauterbrunnen, but want to have some choices in food. Anyone been there during this time?
Paul
Houston, TX USA Wed 04/12/2006

Rome Hotel
To the traveler going to Rome I have been to Italy 4 times with the help of a wonderful service called Hidden Treasures of Italy. I could never have found these places on my own! No tour books know these places! Go to the website and phone Mariella in Milan. She can help you for a small fee. www.htitaly.com Ciao
Vickie
CA USA Wed 04/12/2006

Rome Hotel
Ray S., Try Alexandra Hotel on Via Veneto 18 near the Spanish Steps http://www.hotelalexandraroma.com/en/default.htm It's cheaper than you want but a great location! We are staying there this summer also.
Sally <email>
USA Wed 04/12/2006

Ray - Rome Hotel
I will be in Rome during at same time with a tour of all age groups. Try www.hotellapergola.com. There are 3 or 4 hotels on the site.
USA Wed 04/12/2006

lunch in London
By the Winston Churchill museum-sorry don't remember Tube stop but it's by the bridge across from the London Eye, the big ferris wheel thing-is a park. Don't know if they have bathrooms but the parks was great, grassy, big trees, on a main street so safe, and in July there were lots of people there. Have fun.
USA Wed 04/12/2006

Rome Hotel
We're searching for a hotel in Rome with an availabe double room for May 29 through June 2. We're touring Italy primarily by train with an occasional bus and/or ferry when necessary. We will be arriving in Rome by train on the 29th. We're searching for a well maintained hotel, B&B, apartment, room, or whatever that is fairly convenient for taking in the sights of Rome in a 4 day stay. Can budget up to 200-250 euros per night. However, don't need white gloves, ambience, etc. Really am searching for value and of course quality. We desire private bath (shower), air conditioning and non-smoking. Of course cleanliness and quietness is highly desired. I have avidly searched Rick Steves', Frommers, Fodor, and Karen Brown but, of course, all their recommedations, within our budget, have been taken for the period desired. Does anyone have any suggestions for making our first stay in Rome enjoyable from a lodging viewpoint? I'm running out of Tylenol!! Thanks, in advance, for any help supplied. Ray
Ray S <email>
Columbus, Ohio USA Wed 04/12/2006

Travel in Eastern Europe
Does anyone out there have any tips for travelling through Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria? I am in the military and will be moving from Germany to Turkey via car and can find very little on these areas, particularly Bulgaria and Romania.
Ken Speidel <email>
Greimersburg, Germany Wed 04/12/2006

Luggage
Does anyone know if it is possible to safely leave luggage at a train station for a day? I would like to check out of my hotel & take a day trip before getting on a train for an overnight trip to my next destination. I'm currently holding back on the day trip because I have no where to keep my luggage. If I had the hotel keep it, I would have to go hours out of my way to go back & get it. I'll be traveling with two larger suitcases. Has anyone experienced this before?
Jenny <email>
MN USA Wed 04/12/2006

Money Belt
Once at the gate, during a random screening behind a divider, I was asked by the female security person to remove my money belt (shoulder bag). I said that I would if she really wanted me to, but I would have to take off my shirt first. She changed her mind! (thankfully!)
TM
Bend, OR USA Wed 04/12/2006

Train Reservations
I am doing a 2 week "bounce around" and am needing to travel from Milan to Rome during the last week of May (25th to be exact). I will be arriving in Milan that afternoon at 12 and have seen that there is a night train leaving at 11:40 that evening. Does anyone have any opinions as to how important it is to book a sleeper/couchette before I leave the states. I would have already done it but I'm having problems deciphering some of the stuff on the website and I'm terrified about making a mistake and losing money since I'm shopping and making plans for other people besides just myself. If anyone has lots of experience with the website I would greatly appreciate some help. I'm okay until it's time to pick a fare and it's asking me stuff I'm just not familiar with. Thanks in advance.
Steph D <email>
Tyler, TX USA Wed 04/12/2006

Airport Security - Money Belt
I can confirm that Rick's moneybelt will not set off metal detectors. I have worn it about 20 times since 2001, when they raised the sensitivity of the detectors, and I've never had a problem. I only use it to store credit cards and cash.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Wed 04/12/2006

Marijuana in Austria
Going to Vienna for a week or so and wondering 1) given I have no intention of smuggling, how much trouble could a U.S. citizen get in for possession? 2) Are there people I can ask for marijuana such as cab drivers, bartenders, etc., without getting funny looks? 3) Should I worry about smoking in my Pension room?
Michelle
New York, NY USA Wed 04/12/2006

Airport Security - Money Belt
At the moment I'm 365 miles from home so I can't check either my neck wallet or my money belt to see if the zipper pulls are metal or plastic. However, I regularly wear both the wallet and the belt when going through security and have never had a problem.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 04/12/2006

re: Airport Security - Money Belt
Don't underestimate how sensitive the airport scanners are - they can pick up incredibly tiny bits of "metal" - for example, one time I was going through, and after removing EVERYTHING that I could imagine might have any metal in it, I was still setting the thing off, and was pulled aside to be "wanded". I figured it had to be a filling, but the beep went off over my shirt pocket. Seemed odd to me, since my shirt pocket was empty (and no, I have no piercings, there or elsewhere...). He had me dig in the corner of my shirt pocket, and I produced a tiny little lint ball, about the size of half a grain of rice. Unraveling this lint ball, amongst the fluff, there was a teensy scrap of foil paper, which had been part of a corner of a candy wrapper (from a roll of Life Savers I had been sucking on on a previous flight). THAT had set off the metal detectors. I was pretty impressed.

I'm sure many of them use plastic, but on my money belt (pouch), the zipper pull at least is metal.

I take mine off as I go through security (but I watch it like a hawk when it's out of arm's length).
DB
Seattle, WA USA Wed 04/12/2006

Moneybelt at security
I usually keep the moneybelt, with all its contents intact, in my carry-on purse/backpack for security when starting out in the US. Then I put it on again while getting reorganized on the other side.I don't wear it on the plane, either- unless traveling alone and going to the bathroom, I take my purse with the moneybelt in it. Once landed at my destination, however, I ALWAYS keep it on! I used to keep it in the hotel room safe (if available) while sleeping at night, but one night there was a fire...so now I keep it under the pillow or with my ready-to-go pile of clothes next to the bed. It sounds paranoid but that night of the fire I was one of the only tourists with their passport, money, and some clothes in hand running down the stairs!
Karen
USA Wed 04/12/2006

Driving for Joan
We received a good map when we picked up our rental car in Siena. The "insets" that show more local detail are especially helpful (we got several, various places)because sometimes the signs posted are not necessarily for the specific little town you are trying to reach, but rather a larger one, beyond, when you come to a "fork" and need to make a quick decision! Driving is very easy- and getting lost is part of the fun and we found a couple gorgeous places by accident!
USA Wed 04/12/2006

Airport Security - Money Belt
Tim,

could "something metallic" also include coins. (Although why would someone carry coins in a money belt?)
CO USA Wed 04/12/2006

Airport Security - Money Belt
Unless you're carrying something metallic (like a set of keys) in a passport wallet or money belt, you'll have no need to remove it.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 04/12/2006

Airport Security - Money belts
When you're wearing a passport wallet, or a waist-type money belt, do you need to remove them when going through airport security?
USA Wed 04/12/2006

Driving directions
The old Mapblast is pretty good, with maps of tough intersections or junctions, and downloadable to a Windows-based PDA. You can find it at http://maps.msn.com/(n4it2j45fcrcfo2u2bnt0gnp)/home.aspx?&redirect=false
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Wed 04/12/2006

Driving Directions
Or go to viamichelin.com.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 04/12/2006

driving directions
Go to mappy.com
Devra <email>
Lake Forest, CA USA Wed 04/12/2006

driving directions
My husband and I will be renting a car and driving from Florence to Tuscany. Is there any website that gives clear driving directions within Italy? Mapquest doesn't seem able to do it.
Joan
Holbrook, NY USA Wed 04/12/2006

Greek island tours
Question about Greek cruises: My husband and I want to go island hopping in Greece. We want to be on a ship, so we can just stow our stuff somewhere and see a lot of different places without checking into hotels every night. We're looking for a really casual (no dress codes!) experience where we see a lot, learn a lot, but still get to spend some time relaxing on beaches -- and someone else does a lot of the planning for us. Has anyone taken a Viking Yacht Cruise or a GAP Adventure cruise? Any other recommendations? Thanks!
Deborah
Alexandria, VA USA Wed 04/12/2006

Train Reservations
I had a similar situation last spring, landing at CDG, and having to take a TGV train to Avignon on a Friday afternoon. I was concerned, so I called RailEurope to order a reservation. The rep was extremely helpful. Ordering a reservation from the US is pricey (I think it was about a $40 handling charge, plus the reservation fee.) She looked up the schedules for the various trains, and advised me to buy the reservations at the CDG train station, since there were several trains that afternoon. When I arrived and cleared Customs, I could select a train based on what time it was. This worked beautifully. I purchased my reservations at the train station at CDG, and was on my way. If there are 2 or 3 trains heading to Caen that would all basically fit your needs, I'd suggest you buy your reservations when you land.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Wed 04/12/2006

Venice to Airport
I stayed in the Castello area of Venice last fall and got up real early to catch a direct shuttle-ferry to the Venice airport. There is a stop just east of St. Mark's. It was 10 Eu and took an hour. The shuttle makes one or two other stops in Venice to pick up passengers for the airport.
Swan
USA Wed 04/12/2006

Car insurance in England
Carole.....Check the AutoEurope site. For London rentals, they include damage to persons and property outside of the car. A more expensive program includes theft and CDW but with hefty deductibles and no coverage on personal injury to those inside the car
USA Tue 04/11/2006

smoking in Europe
Re CA in Florida. You are mistaken about no smoking laws not existing in France. A French hotelier told me the French had them before the Italians. The first year or two, French smokers--and I saw English speaking tourists do this also--ignored the prohititions. I saw a big difference from about '02/'03 to present. I have a problem similar to yours but I can handle the smoke. The nicotine does me in and that can stick to a room, etc until it gets a good washing. I ask for a no smoking room that has been washed, painted or repapered in the past year when making a reservation. Often it helps.
ILL USA Tue 04/11/2006

smoking in Europe
Re CA in Florida. You are mistaken about no smoking laws not existing in France. A French hotelier told me the French had them before the Italians. The first year or two, French smokers--and I saw English speaking tourists do this also--ignored the prohititions. I saw a big difference from '03 to present. I have a problem similar to yours but I can handle the smoke. The nicotine does me in and that can stick to a room, etc until it gets a good washing. I ask for a no smoking room that has been washed, painted or repapered in the past year when making a reservation. Often it helps.
chris
CO USA Tue 04/11/2006

Transavia
Thanks for the info about Transavia Linda! That put my mind at ease, like you I booked online and thought "I really hope this is real or it's really going to mess up my trip." I have already booked my flight from Amsterdam to my home and need to make sure I can get there. Any other experiences would be appreciated.
LJ
USA Tue 04/11/2006

Re: Train Reservations
As long as you know exactly when you want to go, get the train reservation. The cost of a reservation is usually minimal. Plus, it's well worth avoiding having to stand during the whole ride when you're all jet-lagged. The only downside would be if your plane is delayed.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 04/11/2006

Re: Driving Directions
Based upon my experience, I would have to disagree somewhat with previous description of the autobahn. The 2 right lanes (where there were 3 lanes) were pretty much like our interstate expressways. Regarding the left lane, I am in total agreement. More than once, I was surprised at how quickly I was staring at a BMW grill in my rear view mirror when using the left lane for passing. For everything but the left lane, anyone who can drive US Interstates can drive the autobahn.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 04/11/2006

Train Reservations?
My wife and I will be arriving at Charles de Gaulle airport and will be taking a train to Caen on a Friday a few weeks from now. I see that Rick advises to make reservations in advance for Friday train travel. Is this needed this time of year? I don't want to get to Paris and then not be able to get where I need to go because the train is full.
T <email>
Fort Worth, TX USA Tue 04/11/2006

DRIVING DIRECTIONS
JEMS Driving in Europe can be challenging at best. The autobahn requires complete concentration because the traffic is so fast.

ALWAYS stay in the right lane except to pass and then dot it quickly because the fast cars will overtake you without your knowing it.

Leave Munich and drive north to Nurenburg. Go west to Rothenburg. You will have fast super-highway all the way.

Take the A6 for 170km (100 miles) to Nurenburg. Then the A 73, A6, and A7 100 km (65 miles) to Rothenburg. Remember that the highway signs always list the last town on the road, and not the next town.

Sometimes there will be an auxiliary sign listing other towns and the one you are going to may be listed.

After you land and before you leave the terminal buy a Michelin road map of Germany. Don’t buy it here.

Before leaving the terminal ask about taking the train to the RR station. Before you leave the aukto rental counter ask for a map showing your route out of town.

If they can provide one for you, have them write instructions so you won’t forget.
USA Tue 04/11/2006

Venice lodging and getting to airport.
We are staying in Venice for the last leg of our May/June trip. We fly out from Venice Airport at 7:30 am. Any suggestions on where to stay in Venice (3 nights low-moderate cost) and how to get to the airport early enough for an international flight? Thanks in advance!
Peggy & Denny <email>
USA Tue 04/11/2006

Transavia
I flew on Transavia from Amsterdam to Treviso last Sept. Like you, I wondered if it really was an airline...and if I really had a ticket. (Bought my ticket online). Rest assured! It turned out to be a fine airline, just like what we're used to, and it left on time and arrived on time and it was no problem at all. I will say that I had travelled to Europe all carry-on for the first time, but Transavia said my carryon was too heavy and I had to check it but no problem, it worked out fine. Have a great trip, wish I could go with you!

Linda
Linda
PA USA Tue 04/11/2006

Paris?
We will be going on a cruise in August to St.Petersburg, Oslo, etc. We have 4 days before we have to be in Denmark, we are thinking of going to Paris. Looking for a good little hotel by the Metro and sites. I work for Disney and can get in for free, but not sure we should make the effort. Any suggestions?
Char <email>
Plant City, FL USA Tue 04/11/2006

Forli Airport to Bologna Italy
Has anyone flown into Forli Airport (Bologna,Italy) on Ryanair? I was wondering if I should take the more expensive shuttle bus to Bologna ($12) or take the local bus to Forli city and then catch the train into Bologna ($4.50)? Both about the same travel time. Thanks!
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Tue 04/11/2006

Holland day trips
Swissguy-- If you are going todrive up to Rotterdam from Brugge try to makeit tothe small city of Delft. A charming canal town with a beautiful square and two churches. Better yet try to get there for market day. They have a huge market antiques and herring. I seem to remember market day was Monday. But check first. Then on the way back stop in Rotterdam.
TomT <email>
Portland, OR USA Tue 04/11/2006

re: Frankfurt
I would think if you have the time, and wanted to get a taste of Germany, maybe hit Koln(Cologne) then up the Rhine. This is all basically on the way to Frankfurt from Belgium, but agree with the others, Frankfurt is basically a modern German city, nice to go through, but better sights elsewhere. Definitely do Amsterdam though, maybe one of my favorite cities.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 04/11/2006

Re: Frankfurt worth the trip?
Kelly - Thinking about it, as long as you're in Belgium, go to Brugge and/or Ghent. Brugge is awesome. Ghent is easily worth half of a day.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 04/11/2006

Re: Frankfurt
Nope, not worth a side trip. I've been there twice for work. The Palm Garden is nice (think smaller version of Kew Gardens in London). That's about it. It's not a bad city. It's just that there's not much for tourists.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 04/11/2006

Frankfurt
I will also be in Frankfurt over night on May 6th. Any suggestions would be great. My first time to Frankfurt and to Germany.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Tue 04/11/2006

Frankfurt worth the trip?
I'll be in Belgium for a conference in June and am planning some side trips, Amsterdam being one of them. It Frankfurt worth swinging by for a day or two?
Kelly <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Tue 04/11/2006

Smoking in Europe
I have also had problems with smoke. I have had asthma attacks after someone was smoking 6 feet away outdoors! I don't know where you are going, but I have not had trouble with rooms in France and Italy, staying in at least 9 different hotels on various trips, although you may be different. The B&B idea sounds good. I find restaurants to be the most troublesome. In Italy a new no smoking law went into effect last year so dining out there should not be an issue. The French have no such law. Your best bet is to dine outdoors if weather permits, or to arrive when the restaurant opens as the French dine late. Still risky. Before our last trip to France, returning 5 days ago, I was treated for my sensitivies with acupuncture. I was skeptical, but after having been treated for smoke the day before I left, I had no problems! Never used my inhaler this trip! I am now a believer. Consider acupuncture. There is no way to totally avoid smoke in Europe. I also suggest taking along your own pillow case and zippered hypoallergenic pillow cover. You are usually sensitive to more than one thing and each that you contact in a day adds up to trouble. Good luck to you!
CA
FL USA Tue 04/11/2006

Smoking in Europe
I would recommend checking out B&B's within the countries you are planning to travel and ask about their smoking policy. I don't recall ever being in a B&B where the room even had a tinge of smoke (I am sensitve to it but not nearly as sensitive as you). Be prepared, however, that there is a lot of smoking going on - at least in France , Beligium and Italy.
USA Tue 04/11/2006

I am fairly seriously allergic to cigarette smoke, so I'm concerned about things I've read about non-smoking rooms in Europe. A smoking room isn't an option--I would be sick at a minimum the entire next day. However, I've gotten fairly ill from sleeping in non-smoking rooms where someone has smoked in the recent past (even when management has claimed thorough cleaning with air scrubbers).

Am I just out of luck during our European trip?
USA Tue 04/11/2006

open jaws
When you see an advertised price, call the airline. Some airlines permit you to book open jaws on line, some don't. We always fly British Airways which requires a phone call. Whether it's a sale price or regular price, open jaws ends up being half of the RT price to each destination. Fly into Paris, take half of that; fly from Rome to home, take half of that and add to first half. We never waste travel time or money going back to the point of origin.
Sandy
MD USA Tue 04/11/2006

Air fare discounts/open jaw
The airlines often offer some good deals on travel to Europe. Book now and fly by a designated date. These are RT meaning to and from the same departure and arrival cities. Is there a way to arrange open jaw options even if you pay a supplemental fee?
T. Miroz
Houston, USA Mon 04/10/2006

Transavia
Correction to the last post...the name of the airline is Transavia.
LJ
USA Mon 04/10/2006

Transvania Airline
I have recently booked a flight from Venice to Amsterdam on Transvania Airline. It was only 80 Euro! Wondering if anyone else has used this airline or gone this route and if so what was your experience. I will be traveling at the end of June 2006. Thanks!
LJ
USA Mon 04/10/2006

Paris Hotel in the 6ieme
For those looking for affordable, well located hotels in the 6ieme in Paris, I recommend Le Grand Hotel des Balcons. It is not fancy, but clean, and the 6ieme is at your footsteps. Another excellent choice is Lex Deux Continents....typically French and well located on the rue Jacob. From either of these hotels you can walk to the Luxembourg, Notre Dame, the Louvre and Musee d'Orsay. Desk staff speaks English and is very helpful at both hotels. Bon voyage!
Carol
Menlo Park, CA USA Mon 04/10/2006

personal liability insurance
Is there any place a US citizen can buy personal liability and property damage insurance for driving a rental car in England? The insurance covers the car but not personal liability and property damage. My car insurance here in the US doesn't cover me in England.
Carol Booher <email>
Long Beach, CA USA Mon 04/10/2006

Standard phone jack type plug-in in UK for computer access. Be sure to have a good battery- maybe 2 and a good charger and a plug adapter. You can probably do the laptop and a carry-on if you fly USAir or British Air. Just pack light. And have a good laptop carrier that is well padded and easy to carry.
USA Mon 04/10/2006

Travel with Laptop Computer
My employer has offered me an opportunity to go bum around Europe for a month, but only if I can have regular access to a good PC, and fairly frequent (and good) internet access.

I realize that carrying a laptop around Europe (and expecting DSL-level access to the www) is antithical to Rick's travel- and packing-credo, but I'd like to take advantage of this opportunity.

Does anyone have any insight into laptop models which are lightweight yet powerful, or other hints? (internet cafes are out of the question as I have specialized software I’ll need to utilize). Other than the obvious electric-outlet and frequency issues, can I assume that “in-room hi-speed internet access” at a European hotel is similar to in the US? Do I need any special cords to plug into their routers, etc?

Thanks!
Jason <email>
Boulder, CO USA Mon 04/10/2006

Cost per day for students
Sigh.....I can remember "doing" Europe on $10 or less. Don't forget the ISTC card...it can give you discounts that might prove worthwhile. And many sights give discounts to students, with or without a card like ISTC...just bring your current student ID from school, and ask at the ticket booth.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 04/10/2006

Cost Of Travel - Student vs. Old Fart
OK, I admit it. I'm not a student and haven't been for about 40 years. I wouldn't know a Hostel if I got hit with one and I don't have (or particularly want) a clue about their cost.

That said, I think food, lodging and travel are the three greatest costs of traveling, not the cost of entrance fees to museums and churches, as posted below. My wife and I are pretty hungry at the end of the day if we spend less than about €30 - €40 each (counting breakfast at a 3 * hotel) and wine with lunch and dinner. Downtown Paris is more expensive than some country town in Greece or Spain, but you get the idea. I suppose we could eat more food and drink less wine, but what would be the point?

Our hotels generally run €70 - €80 per night, although thus far we've been mostly in the big cities and have traveled in the summer time.

You think gas prices are high in your hometown? Just wait until you rent a car in Europe, and I'll bet you don't pay a toll to drive the freeways in your neighborhood either. The price of Eurorail passes have skyrocketed in the last few years as well.

As an aside, check out this interesting article about the cost of travel in Europe: Rental car vs. a rail pass

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/11812112

After all the dust settles, my wife and I are pleased to spend less than about €100 per day each. We could do it for less but it would be easy to spend more as well.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Mon 04/10/2006

Cost per day for students
My son has little money and has happily travelled through Europe quite cheaply. First of all, he tries to stay with people he knows. He has pretty much stayed out of Western Europe, preferring Eastern Europe instead. He most often stays in youth hostels (& got bedbugs at a hostel in Bulgaria) and picnics with the people he meets. He avoids any attractions where he has to pay admission. When he was in Istanbul, I told him that he should visit the Tokapi Palace and I would PAY the admission. (He declined.) I asked him what he does all day, and he says that he explores neighborhoods. Would I care to travel his way? Certainly not. Does he envy the relative luxury that my husband & I travel in? No again. I'm just glad that he took his malaria pills when he visited Africa.....Have fun.
Karen <email>
MN USA Mon 04/10/2006

Driving Directions
First, I'm not even sure the "Romantic Road" is that clearly defined. I found a list of stops on the Romantic Road Bus Tour shown on Euraide.com, but there also seem to be some other cities that claim to be on the road, as well.

One thing for sure, you will NOT EVER find the Romantic Road by putting Füssen and Rothenburg into ViaMichelin as point A and point B. ViaMichelin returns the optimal (quickest or shortest) route, and the Romantic Road is the scenic route - nothing approaching optimal at all. No matter what points you input, Michelin returns a route faster that the Romantic Road. In order to get ViaMichelin to return the Romantic Road route, I had to hand input almost every intermediate stop.

The entire Romantic Road is generally thought of as going from Frankfurt to Füssen, but the most popular section is Rothenburg to Füssen. By car, that route, painstakingly entered into ViaMichelin stop by stop, will take 5 hours - and that is just driving time, with no stops.

Munich is just east of the middle of the Road. To take the entire road, you must drive another 1 3/4 hr from Munich south to Füssen to start.

A better option is to go from Munich and pick up the RR at Augsburg. Again, you won't get it from Pt A to Pt B on Michelin. Find all the towns you want to see and enter them in ViaMicheli as intermediate stops. Total driving time will be 3 1/2 hours; fuel costs will be almost €30, added to the cost of a day of car rental.
USA Mon 04/10/2006

Costs per day for students
You could easily do $50 a day for food and hostels. The things that get you are the entrance fees to musuems and churches. Go to a bookstore and find out the current entrance fees and make your hostel reservations before you go. Have fun!
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Mon 04/10/2006

Amsterdam House Apartments
Has anybody stayed in the Amsterdam House apartments? Are they clean? Are they located in a very noisy area? Do all of them really have canal/river views? Thanks
Steve
Sonoma County, CA USA Mon 04/10/2006

Costs
Depends on what you plan to do, whether you'll hit sights or forego the church/museum ratrace, where you will stay, if you share expenses w somebody and what you eat and how you get from place to place. If you are very lucky, you could likely make do with as little as $40 daily but you should budget at least 2x that. Good Luck
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Mon 04/10/2006

Cost per day...for students
I wouldn't let my kids (students) go to Europe without access to less then $100 a day.
USA Mon 04/10/2006

Betty - Windsor
Michael suggests Windsor as an alternative to London. Since Eaton is right next door, you could visit there, too. If you choose to go to Windsor, be aware that there is local bus service from the Heathrow Central Bus Station (takes around 30 minutes). Taxis do it in less time; but since you'll be outside the London area, a taxi is quite expensive.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 04/10/2006

Betty - London
While the Heathrow Express takes only 15 minutes to get to Paddington, you have to take the tube, a bus, or a taxi from there to get to the "main tourist sights" (maybe another 15-20 minutes). Riding the tube all the way from Heathrow will take a little under an hour--not all that much longer and a whole lot cheaper. A one day off-peak (after 09:30) travelcard for zones 1-6 will get you into London and back on the tube for 6.30 GBP and will give you unlimited rides on the tube, bus, Docklands Light Railway, and National Rail trains within those zones. You won't have time for very many rides, of course, but you can get to the places you choose to see in a hurry and at no additional expense.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 04/10/2006

First Time Going To Ireland
I'm planning my first trip to Ireland for next April. I've heard that Ireland "shuts down" during Easter weekend. Is this true?
<email>
New Jersey USA Mon 04/10/2006

Betty - London
Instead of going into London, you may want to consider visiting Windsor Castle instead. Its located very close to Heathrow, and there is a lot to do at the castle and the surrounding village. Its close enough to take a taxi.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 04/10/2006

Betty - London
Betty, pick something you want to do in London for a few hours, Harrods, Parliment, Buckingham Palace, traditional pub, British Museum (which is free) and go for it. The tubes/subway are quick and take you everywhere you need to go.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Mon 04/10/2006

Perfect lunch in London
Those picnic spots are a great idea, but if the weather isn't cooperating you may also want to consider one of the many food counters at Harrod's food hall. Its pricey, but the food is fabulous.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 04/10/2006

Picnic Spots in London
Leciester Square or Covent Garden are the perfect people watching places for a simple picnic lunch in London. Go to Marks & Spencer or Whistlestop or Sainsbury and pick up some sandwiches or some pre-packed salads. Even Boots (a drug store) has boxed sandwiches. If you prefer- get Chinese take-out- there are places all around Leciester Square. Find a seat, eat, watch and enjoy!!! Other alternatives would be Regent's Park/Zoo or Kew Gardens- neither is near the heart of London though.
Toni Yates
Charlotte, NC USA Mon 04/10/2006

Perfect lunch in London
Thanks Jason & Lisa!

Appreciate the feedback. If anyone has a PERFECT lunch spot in London...for this "Lunch In London" layover...please let me know.
Betty
los angeles, ca USA Mon 04/10/2006

Short Stay Between Budapest and Paris: Need Help
I have five days roughly to travel between Budapest and Paris. I am wondering whether it is best to fly straight from one to the other, or fly to Switzerland or Austria for a day, or take the train over several days. Any suggestions. Also, nice, quiet and inexpensive hotels in paris?
Steve Kelley <email>
Portland, OR USA Mon 04/10/2006

Betty - London
Betty, Yes, the tube/train goes straight from Heathrow to London. Just make sure you leave enough time to get through security coming back into the airport.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Mon 04/10/2006

Hotels- Paris and Prague
To the California traveler going to Paris; Everyone has a favorite hotel in Paris. Our best experience was at a small place called the Hotel Luxembourg, 3 Stars, not expensive, very comfortable, excellent breakfast. Easy walk to Notre Dame. Will always stay there!

Now I have a question, anyone ever stay at the Hotel Seven Days in Prague? Looks good on the internet site, still apprehensive.
Tim S.
Vancouver, WA USA Mon 04/10/2006

Ryanair
Ryanair/Easyjet is what it is. You are paying for a dirt cheap flight. They provide all their information on their websites, i.e. stict check in times, baggage allowance, and shuttle services to the cities. The money I save flying on Ryanair is well worth it. Don't get discouraged, just be prepared and well informed and you will be fine.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Mon 04/10/2006

8 hour layover in London
Betty-

Yep. I've done it.
Jason
Boulder, CO USA Mon 04/10/2006

8 hour layover in London
I am traveling from LA to Paris...with a 8 hour layover in London. Is that enough time to take the Heathrow Express into Central London?
Betty
los angeles, Ca USA Mon 04/10/2006

Driving Directions
my advice would be to get a good Michelin Map for the area you will be driving in. If you just need point A to point B, try

http://www.viamichelin.com/viamichelin/gbr/tpl/hme/MaHomePage.htm

This gives you how many km, tolls, radar traps and estimate on the cost of petrol.
USA Mon 04/10/2006

Side trips into Holland From Brugge, Belgium
My wife and I are going to be spending a few days in Brugge, Belgium this summer and we want to take a day trip into Holland. We have a car and we really want to see the windmill park south of Rotterdam. Any other recommendations on small towns/cool things to see in that part of Holland? We tend to be more interested in quaint villages rather than large cities. Any thoughts/suggestions would be much appreciated!!!!
Swissguy
Kansas City, MO USA Mon 04/10/2006

Driving directions
We are picking up our rental car at the main train station in Munich. I am looking for an easy route/directions to get from the train station to the Romantic Road and heading toward Rothenburg au Tauber. I have never driven in Europe so any help would be appreciated.
JEMS
Waukesha, WI USA Mon 04/10/2006

Paris Hotels
Has anyone recently stayed at the Best Western Premier Left Bank St. Germain in Paris? How is the location and rooms? I can not make a decision unless I get real imput from travelers.
California USA Mon 04/10/2006

International Shipment of luggage
Is there anyone with experience shipping luggage ahead internationally on Fedex to be waiting at your hotel when you arrive? I'd like to ship some golf clubs ahead to Spain to my hotel and FedEx keeps telling me that I must pay duties and taxes. I'll be bringing these clubs home with me and the US Dept. of Commerce says no problem and FedEx doesn't seem to have experience with this. Might anyone out there have experience with shipping personal property to be used while on vacation?
Stace <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Mon 04/10/2006

Oct. Fest/ Reservation issues?
A friend and I are planning our very first trip overseas to Europe. We are so very excited and plan to be there for 2 weeks, from Sept 18-Oct 2 2006. We have made several reservations but have 4 days that are open with no reservations at all. We wanted to have some freedom and flexability. We are taking the Benelux Flex Saver Rail Pass, for the entire time and plan to stay a few days in the Mosel Valley. I am however, concerned that this being the time of October Fest, our non reservation days might end up with no where to sleep! What should I do and what can I expect for crowds at this time? Our open days are Sept 21st and the 24-26. Thank You!
Chris
Wi USA Mon 04/10/2006

Getting from One Place to Another
You could also go by way of Genoa. From Genoa (Genova), take the local train toward La Spezia and get off at your destination, or take the express directly to La Spezia and the local back to your Cinque Terra destination. Genoa is about 130 km to the north. From La Spezia, take the local ("Regionale") train toward Sestre Levante, stopping at your destination. Riomaggiore is the first stop after La Spezia.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 04/10/2006

Student Travel Budget
I suggest you check with the LONELY PLANET people. Books, web-site will help you figure out a budget. Going as cheaply as possible you will probably need at least $50 per day.
USA Mon 04/10/2006

Cost per day...
What do you all suggest as a good amount of money to allot per day in Europe?

(For a student...)
USA Sun 04/09/2006

ST DENIS-- ALL ABOUT IT
I spent the night in Lamorlay and drove into St Denis to catch the train into Paris.

I had no trouble parking my car for the day. I found St Denis identical to other small villages in France.

You wont see any difference from other places and it is quiet. I can’t see it as a demonstration area.

Be sure that your luggage is out of sight. If you have to, cover it with newspapers or some kind of trash.
USA Sun 04/09/2006

St. Denis
We’re going to investigate the Gothic in north-west France this October. We will begin our trip at CDG on a Tuesday morning by picking up our car. Since the Basilica of St. Denis is believed by some to be the first Gothic building and is only 20km from the airport, it is logical to start there. What kind of neighborhood is the St. Denis area? There appears to be ample parking in the area, but we will have all our luggage in the car. We wouldn’t want to drive into an urban jungle or a “demonstration” area or such. What do y’all think?
USA Sun 04/09/2006

Travel pillows
I bought one from RS and it was very similar to those you can get everywhere (Target, sports stores, etc)and the same price...besides being comfy on the plane, last trip to Italy I re-inflated it to use at night when our hotel pillows were frequently like two pieces of cardboard, and it was great! (In the morning, I put it- inflated- in the luggage so I wouldn't hurt the feelings of the staff...)
Karen
USA Sun 04/09/2006

Early flight out of Rome-Help on Where to Stay?
My two daughters are leaving rome FCO airport to head home a day ahead of us. One has a 7:00 am flight. Any suggestions on where to stay the night before? There doesn't seem to be much near the airport Can you stay near the Termini and still get to FCO in time for a 7:00 am flight? Any help would be greatly appreciated Thanks! Jeff
Jeff <email>
St. Johnsbury, VT USA Sun 04/09/2006

getting from one place to another
Venice to La Spezia....by train is anywhere from 5 1/2 to 6 1/2 hours, with anywhere from one to three changes, depending on which one you take. Cost is about 35 Euros each, second class. Take the one with the least transfers....less chance of missing the connection. Check out http://www.trenitalia.com/en/index.html. The first leg is almost always on a Eurostar train, which requires a reservation...comes with one if you buy your ticket on line.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 04/09/2006

UK travel and transprotation
I would get a Britrail pass. We have used them for many years and they make travel VERY EASY! Buses are good too. I find that UK public transport is wonderful and easy to use. I'd suggest that you consider going to London, York, Edinburgh, Innverness (Drumnadrochit is good to) Cardiff, and Betws-y-coed in 'wales. There is a great B&B in Betws-y-coed called the Fairhaven. Also try Aviemore Scotland and stay at the hotel across from the train station. All of these and much more are easliy reached by train.
Toni Yates <email>
Charlotte , NC USA Sun 04/09/2006

Travel Pillows
Has anyone tried RS travel pillows? Or do you have another preference? Thanks.
Maire
USA Sun 04/09/2006

Traveling Great Britian
Want to travel Great Britain in September--probably alone, backpacking staying at RS places. Am torn between buying a bus ticket or renting a car (not in London or other larger cities). Any advice? Thanks in advance.
Jessie Graham <email>
Wimberley, TX USA Sun 04/09/2006

Driving from Paris to Florence
We plan to spend a week driving from Paris to Italy. Can anyone advise as to the most scenic route to take in early May. Thanks for any help you can provide
Edmonton, Alberta Canada Sun 04/09/2006

Cooler Bags
Check out www.thermasnap.com. I picked up a few of these bags at my local grocery store a few years ago, and always keep one in my car for "doggie bags" from restaurants. They're supposed to keep food hot or cold for up to 3 hours. They fold flat, but the top isn't completely sealed (a gap at either side of the handle), so I don't know if it will meet the "leak-proof" requirement, but they are cheap enough to dispose of before returning home.
Sue
Philadelphia, PA USA Sun 04/09/2006

WHAT TO PLAN AHEAD
Suz: Yes there are lots of things you need to plan ahead of time. The first is an itinerary.

Underestand that all of them are temporary. That means you have the right to change it at any time while you travel.

You are right to let your whims guide you. Expect to change it. Look forward to changing it to meet your needs.

Second , go to the library and browse some travel guides and shop for places to see. You might even buy a couple of Rick’s books.

Next is to get a map and mark the route you expect to take. That will be temporary also.

Note the miles between the cities you plan to visit so you can estimate travel time.

Next, plan the length of time you would like to visit each city. Make it temporary.

Add all those times and see if they will fit in the allotted time you have for travel.

Last is to estimate the amount of money you will need. Then be sure you have an ATM card so you can withdraw money as you need it and not carry an excess of currency. That is dangerous.

Take a couple of credit cards for emergency use. Don’t take travelers checks. Take 50 one dollar bills for negotiating.

Then call your bank and tell them you will be withdrawing large amounts of money from European banks so they don’t think someone has acquired your card and is misusing it.

Often a bank will close your account to withdrawals as a protection to you. And don’t be discouraged when you get lost. (And you will) Because that is all part of the adventure of travel.

Finally if you have time do some google.com searches for “attractions” or “sights” in each town for ideas of unusual places to see.
CARLOS
DALLAS, USA Sun 04/09/2006

BED AND BREAKFAST IN SCOTLAND
Martha: Here are two of the best webpages for B&Bs in Scotland: www.scotlandsbestbandbs.co.uk and www.scotland2000.com/accom/.

I have always emailed for vailability and rates.

Then when I reserve I request confirmation by email so I will have something to show the manager when I arrive.
USA Sun 04/09/2006

Bed and Breakast Accommodations in Scotland
My husband and I are planning a trip to Scotland with another couple in early September. We are looking for a good website for listings of accomodations. Any suggestions ?
Martha <email>
Sebastopol, ca USA Sun 04/09/2006

What to plan ahead...
My boyfriend and I are planning on backpacking around Europe for 2 months. We are not planning a tight schedule, because we want to go where are whims take us... However, I was wondering... are there any specific things we SHOULD plan ahead of time (besides our plane tickets and rail pass)?

Also, any tips for young adults traveling alone? Or where to find the cheapest flights?

Thanks!
Suz <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sun 04/09/2006

getting from one place to another
We are trying to find an easy and inexpensive way to get from Venice to the Cinque Terre. any suggestions?
Bonnie <email>
kent, WA USA Sun 04/09/2006

picnicing
Places like Target and Walmart carry collapsible coolers. We took one to Europe several years ago, and travelling over, my husband used it as his "personal item" in addition to his carry on suitcase. He filled it with miscellaneous items, travel guides etc., and then once over there, we used it as our cooler to keep picnic food and drinks cold. We were travelling with 4 children, so this was a great way to save some money on meals.
Conny
Williamsburg, Va USA Sun 04/09/2006

Dubrovnik Guide
Dubrovnik has great guides and tours. Atlas Travel has 3 branches in Dubrovnik and they are very helpful. There are excellent bus and boat tours every day that head out to interesting places. There are posters everywhere in the old city and many stores arrange for your excursions. I took sidetrips to Montenegro, Medugorje, Mostar, and Cavtat that were memorable--each from a different outfit and all were good. There are no shortage of guides and things to do in Dubrovnik, you will find everything you need upon arrival.
Richard
Sedro Woolley, WA USA Sun 04/09/2006

Picnicing
I just checked www.magellans.com and found a stretchy neoprene lunch tote that is advertised as keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cold. It's probably not exactly what you had in mind, but take a look and see what you think.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 04/09/2006

Cinque Terre & Tuscany
Hello fellow Rick Steve's travelers. My wife & I are heading to the Cinque Terre and Tuscany. We are looking for some nice, quaint B&B's. If any one can give us suggestions it is greatly appreciated, thank you
Bill <email>
Long Island, NY USA Sun 04/09/2006

picnicing
My husband and I are very fond of picnicing and plan to have many of our lunches in this manner while in Europe this June. Our question has to do with travel coolers. Can anyone recommend a collapsable cooler (that doesn't leak) that we can pack? We thought about just buying a cheap styrofoam cooler once we get there but being that we will be using the train 5-6 times, it doesn't make sense to lug such a cooler around. Thanks-
<email>
USA Sun 04/09/2006

CHANNEL FERRY
Useful links are... www.poferries.com; www.seafrance.com; www.aferry.co.uk
<email>
UK Sun 04/09/2006

A private guide in Dubrovnik?
Can anyone recommend a private guide in Dubrovnik? What would one expect to pay for a half-day for two people? We are budget travelers but I have never regretted hiring a guide when arriving in a country new to us. Any personal recommendations are welcomed, Thanks so much, John & Robin
John & Robin
Atascadero, Ca USA Sun 04/09/2006

Hotel Reviews
Don't forget to also check out HotelChatter.com when looking for hotel reviews - not nearly as many as tripadvisor but they claim to do a much better job of checking out all inputs for "fakes" as I have found in tripadvisor before.
Charlie <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Sat 04/08/2006

Packing Cubes
I like the packing cubes as you can separate items and it makes them easy to get to. I don't care for the folding squares because you have to unfold it whenever you need a shirt. Maybe if If i had to pack dress shirts it would be good for that.
USA Sat 04/08/2006

St Germain des Pres
From my experience in Paris, I have to agree with the poster's reply to Vickie except for one point. St Germain de Pres is in the 6th arrondisement, but abuts the 7th arr. not the 5th. On the east side of the 6th next to the 5th is St Michel. For prices, just crossing rue Severes and rue Saints Peres into the 7th close to what Rick Steves (but evidently not the French) call the rue Cler neighborhood gives you those 3 star places for far less than $300 and some very nice 2 star hotels (Eber and Muguet for examples) for the low $100 per night range. But staying on the boulevard is like being in a place out of a tourist pamphlet.
USA Sat 04/08/2006

Channel Ferry
To someone who has taken one of the England/France ferries: Do you have recommended web sites or experiences to share.
E. Tannebourg
Allentown, USA Sat 04/08/2006

Vickie re St Germain des Pres
St Germain des Pres is an area in the 5th and 6th districts of Paris. The blvd St Germain is a street running in an arc roughly from the Concorde bridge to near the Universities of Paris. It's a long stretch. It and the area St Germain, which you seem to have confused, are in a high rent district and considered prime locations, but $300 is at the high end of a 2 person room right now even for the Clos Medicis. It is a decent place and very worthy of a repeat stay. Many three star hotels in the St Germain de Pres-Latin Quarter- Luxembourg area are priced in the 1 to 2 hundred range. If $300 per night gives you sticker schock, there are two things you can do. (1) Get off of the Boul St Germain and out of St Germain des Pres. Move just a bit further south or into the Contrescarpe area for example, or the 7th arr. (2) Try a 2-star hotel. Most are $100-50 per night and often just as confortable. The main difference between a 2 and 3-star is amenities. You have one other problem. September is convention month in Paris and 2 and 3-star hotels, being in the middle of the Paris hotel range, fill up quickly. You may be paying a premimum for the month.
USA Sat 04/08/2006

Paris to Bacharach
Mary, the fastest route is via Thalys. There are several direct trains to Köln. There are connections from Köln to Bacharach through Koblenz. Total time is about 5 1/2 hours. If you can find a Thalys promotional fare, this route could also be one of the least expensive. I found a non-refundable €42,50 fare to Köln plus €25 from Köln to Bacharach.

However, if you have to pay the full Librys fare, it will cost about €110, Paris to Bacharach.

There are several EuroCity connection out of Paris through Saarbrücken. One takes 6 1/2 hours for €74; another takes 7 1/2 hours for €69. To find the EC connections on the Bahn website, go to where is says Means of Transport and change it to "without ICE".
<email>
USA Sat 04/08/2006

Paris to Bacharach
Go to www.bahn.de, the German national rail site. It has timetables for most of Europe and is viewable in English. Enter some arbitrary date and departure time for Paris to Bacharach and you'll be given timetables for service around the time you entered. Click on "details" and you'll be given connection points. If you wish, then click on "show intermediate stops" for each individual route on the list.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 04/08/2006

Courtney, re:place to stay in Salzburg
Courtney, We have stayed at the Gausthaus Zur Goldenen Ente in Salzburg and I would highly recommend it. We're staying there again next month. It's nothing too fancy, but it is very nice and you can't beat the location. It's right in the heart of the old town, and a 1 minute walk to the main square. Their web site is www.ente.at
Jill
HI USA Sat 04/08/2006

Paris to Bacharach
Hello! I'm going to be travelling by train from Paris to Bacharach. I'm going to need to make a few train changes (obviously) and I was wondering if anyone happens to know of the best way to do this. (where to make the changes etc.) thanks!
mary <email>
seattle, wa USA Sat 04/08/2006

Room recommendations
I am looking for recommendations for places to stay in Munich, Budapest, Vienna, and Salzburg. We have all our other reservations made, but I have no book that covers Budapest and the descriptions RS gives for his choices in the other locations neither excite nor repel us.

I was wondering if there were any personal recommendations for places you've actually stayed in. We aren't picky room wise--just clean works. Beyond that non-smoking and some type of view preferred.

Feel free to email if you prefer. Thanks
Courtney <email>
TN USA Sat 04/08/2006

Places to Stay on the Germain Des Pres
We are going to Paris at the beginning of September. Can anyone recommend anything on or close to Germain Des Pres Boulevard?Everywhere that I have checked wants about $300./ night for a 3* place. Websites are deceiving and recommendations are the best. Has anyone ever stayed at Hotel Clos Medicis Paris? How is it?
Vickie
Los Gatos , California USA Sat 04/08/2006

Fun things to do for 11 yr.olds in Italy
My 11year old daughter is a great traveler, she will love all that we see in Italy. I would love to take the time for her to see a puppet show or something else that would be extra special for a 11 year old girl. Any idea's? we will be in Rome, Florence,Assisi,Cortona,siena,Cinque Terre,and Lucca. Our trip runs from May 9th- June 8th. Thank you
Lynn <email>
Duncan, Vancouver Canada Sat 04/08/2006

Train reservations in Italy
Rebecca, there are about 2 train connections per hour from Pisa Airport to Florence via Pisa Central. These are regional train and don't require or have reservations. Fare is €5,10 in second class.

You would have to hit the bus just right, as there is one bus every 80 minutes, average, during the day. One way fare is €7,50.

www.pisa-airport.com
<email>
USA Sat 04/08/2006

Doolin, Ireland
Can anyone recommend a B & B in Doolin, Ireland, please?
Sue
USA Sat 04/08/2006

Pisa to Florence
Rebecca, you can also take a bus--station is in the arrival hall of Pisa Airport (12.50euros return, 70 minutes).
USA Sat 04/08/2006

Train reservations in Italy
We're flying into Pisa on 4/13/06, and must take the train to Florence immediately. 1)Should we reserve & buy train tickets from the US? 2)How do we do this? 3)What if the plane is late and we miss our (reserved) train?
Rebecca <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 04/08/2006

Prague or Budapest
Budapest is closer than Prague and much faster by train.
USA Sat 04/08/2006

Train Trouble
The German national rail site, www.bahn.de, can also help you sort out the multiple-stations-in-a-city choices. It has timetables for most of Europe and is viewable in English. After you've chosen a departure and arrival city and entered a departure time, timetables will be given which include the names of the stations. Sometimes a train from city A to city B will stop at both station 1 and station 2 in either city. After you've gotten the timetables, click on "details" and then on "show intermediate stops."
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 04/08/2006

ATM PRDOBLEMS AND CASH
LAURA: Call your bank and request your limit for withdrawals be raised so you can withdraw more money every day or every other day..

Tell them where you will be and what you want to do so they don’t limit your withdrawals. Or close your account to protect you.

Read the section called “ATMs Minimizing Fees”. Lots of travelers have faced this same problem in the past few years. You don’t need to plow new fields.
MARY Z.
CHICAGO, IL USA Fri 04/07/2006

CHEAP FLIGHTS TO ITALY
MARHANAL: Read the “Flying to Europe” part of Graffiti Wall. You will find lots of advice about buying tickets.

There is no perfect time to buy. Fares change every day.

Some advise phoning the air line after midnight on Wednesday as a time when the inventory control manager reduces fares on surplus seats. Makes sense to me but I havent tried it.
USA Fri 04/07/2006

ITALY IN AUGUST
Katie: Remember that Italy and France goes on vacation in August. Having traveled in Europe many times I would avoid going that month.

Or if you must go be prepared to fight the crowds. I would not go to Cinque Terre at all. Read the comments in this column about August travel.

You might consider any other part of Europe except France.
CARLOS
DALLAS, USA Fri 04/07/2006

PRAGUE BUDAPEST OR ITALY
Art: In addition to the three cities you list I would choose Prague to add. It is closer than Budapest and far more interesting to me.
HAM
TULSA, USA Fri 04/07/2006

UNDER 26 CLARIFICATION
You will have to proove your age with your passport or another document before you can use the youth rail pass.

Phone the company you plan to buy your pass from and ask the age limit.
MANNY
TULSA, USA Fri 04/07/2006

London Hotel- Victoria Thistle
Babara, Also consider the Victoria Thistle Hotel. It is IN Victoria Station. You can use the trains (Gatwick express, Brit Rail, etc.), get to the Tube and the Buses. The shopping and resturants in the station make good stops too- There is is a Whistlestop grocery, a Cheese shop, etc. The Hotel is very nice and easy to get to. Wonderful staff and great breakfast.
USA Fri 04/07/2006

Train trouble
How do I find out what towns have train stations?

How do I find out what the stations are called?

How do I know which is the correct station to use when more than one comes up?

On Trenitalia, when I enter the names of some towns, it tells me I need to enter the name of the arrival station.
Maire
USA Fri 04/07/2006

Venice in November
I have been in Venice in November during aqua alta. The weather was gloomy, but to me that just meant no crowds! Don't let rain and chilly weather stop you from enjoying such an amazing city. The streets flooded at high tide but were not under water all day. The city places risers throughout main traffic areas like St. Mark's Square and along areas of the Grand Canal so that you do not have to get your feet wet. We saw many people with disposable galoshes on, but we never felt the need to have them. The water was very high every morning--a siren sounds when high tide reaches flood stage, which is a bit unnerving--but streets were just a bit puddly the rest of the time. The city is so densely packed that it could be miserable when it's crowded. I would rather be there when it's cold out and the crowds are gone.
Elizabeth <email>
St. Louis, USA Fri 04/07/2006

ATM failure
I have also had ATM problems, most often in Italy when the "system" can simply be "down". Maybe this has never happened to you, but it does happen. I also had to rely on friends to bail me out until I could find a system that worked. It makes sense to have several plans in case one doesn't work out.
USA Fri 04/07/2006

London Hotel Choice
Barbara - I would choose the Lime Tree for the following reasons. Round the corner from the Victoria Coach station and a Block from Victoria Rail and tube stations. Access anywhere in London and airports is easy. Walking distance to Buckingham Palace, The Big Bus tour co. A good breakfast, clean, small, old rooms - typical London! Really helpful staff. We stayed there in October 2005 and would return
Iain <email>
Edmonton, AB Canada Fri 04/07/2006

Prague, Budapest or Northern Italy
What a problem, choosing between Prague, Budapest or Northern Italy. I've been to all three, and I say that it depends on your interests and where you've been previously. If you've never been to Eastern Europe, by all means choose Prague or Budapest. I remember Prague as being a little more touristy than Budapest although it certainly was beautiful. I liked the gypsy music in Budapest. And then northern Italy could mean Alps (like the Dolomites), big city (Milan) gorgeous scenery & great food (Cinque Terre or Lake Como) or history (Vienna or Florence.) There is no one definitive answer on where is the best place to go. Feel free to e-mail me with any questions.
Karen <email>
MN USA Fri 04/07/2006

A youth rail pass is for those "under 26". Do you think that is 26 and under or 25 and under? If it's the latter, would I get away with it?? (I'm 26)
Kelly <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Fri 04/07/2006

atm problems
We have had problems in at least five countries on five different trips. In four weeks in Spain, our card never did work; and we had to rely on transactions with our friends to get cash. Our bank just kept telling us that they couldn't see why we were having a problem. To protect ourselves, we now carry cards from two different banks, two different credit cards, at least $100 in travelers checks, and at least $100 in cash. We also get at least $100 worth of the local currency before departure. Having the different cards also means that if one of us is pickpocketed, the other has usable cards. Sure it's expensive to buy foreign currency here; but it's a nightmare to land in a foreign country and find that the atms in the airport are down or not accepting your card. (Happened to us at CDG, but we were able to get a few euros from the amex counter with our tc's.)
Older and Wiser
CA USA Fri 04/07/2006

Prague Budapest or Italy
My family is going to Munich, Salzburg and Vienna in June. We have time for one other area. Northern Italy or Prague or Budapest?
Art <email>
Chubbuck, ID USA Fri 04/07/2006

CT to Munich
My husband and I are hoping to get from Vernazza to Munich (leaving May 10). I'm having a really rough time with the trenitalia website - I don't think that it will let me purchase the required tickets.

Any suggestions would be great. Thanks so much!
Sarah
Ottawa, Canada Fri 04/07/2006

Italy Trains
If you read the info on the Trenitalia site, it'll tell you that youths are under 12. If you're under 26 you can pay 40 Euros for a discount card, but it only saves you 10 per cent, although it's good for a year. Again, read the information already provided below to decide whether you want to buy tickets ahead of time or not. As I mentioned not two posts down, you can get some great discounts if you book on-line. Eurostar fast trains require a reservation anyway, so you'll have to make one a day or two in advance.
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Fri 04/07/2006

Italy trains
Hi just want to thank everyone for the tips but i need some more advice. I will be traveling to italy in mid-may will need trains from venice - florence, florence - la spezia, la spezia - rome. Should i book these ahead of time on the Trenitalia website or can i just wait a buy the tickets at the station?

Also I am 20 and a student if i do purchase tickets online do i purchase an adult ticket or am i considered a youth? I thought youth was under 26 but a previous post said 12 and under.

Thanks
Cora <email>
Vancouver, Canada Fri 04/07/2006

Spanish Civil War Sites
If I'm remembering correctly, the Museum of the History of Catalunya in Barcelona has a good section on the Civil War, including film clips and audio tapes. The museum is fairly new; and, in my opinion, it's quite good. From it you can get a sense of the span of the history of the region, presented very well.
RH
Berkeley, CA USA Fri 04/07/2006

London Hotel choice?
Please help me choose. Should my daughter and I stay at the Lime Tree Hotel or the Sheraton Park Lane for three nights in May? The price is almost the same (165.00 vs 169.00)

Thanks for your comments!

Barbara
Barbara
CBS, NL USA Fri 04/07/2006

Trenitalia-Addendum
BTW, booking as soon as possible on the Trenitalia website (max 60 days in advance) could give you a big break on the fare. When you come to the Fare box, it will list "Intera" as the default (Entire) which defaults to the most expensive fares. Click the drop-down arrow there, and look for something like "In Eurostar a XX Euro." Click on the lowest euro price listed....if your train is eligible for it, it will appear in the fare box. You can cut the cost of a ticket from Rome to Milan, for example, by more than half!
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Fri 04/07/2006

Trenitalia Help
An even easier way, if it's available for your bookings, is to use the "ticketless" option. Print out the confirming e-mail with the PNR on it, jump on, and find your seat. The conductor comes along with a PDA, punches in the PNR, and prints you a teeny ticket off a small printer, much like a cash register receipt....no fuss, no muss! If you do use the self-serve option, Trenitalia has lots of nice young people hanging around the machines to give you a hand figuring it out.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Fri 04/07/2006

Help with Trenitalia please--Response
As to whether you should wait to make reservations, it depends when you want to travel. If it's during the high tourist season, I wouldn't take the cahnce of booking on the same day. As for the website, I've always found the Trenitalia site easy to use. Be aware that sometimes it switches langauges in odd places, but the basics (finding trains, booking, paying) are in English and pretty straightforward. I've booked a lot of tickets (25+) over the past two weeks for a May trip and haven't had any problems.
Jeff
Pittsburgh, PA USA Fri 04/07/2006

Italy Train Tickets--Response
In response to Stefanie, there is no additional charge for the self-service ticket option and it's very convenient. If you buy your tickets over the web, print the confirmation page. It contains the PNR code you will need to access your tickets at the machines. (You must enter your surname and the PNR.) They are conveniently located in most of Italy's major stations (the website has a list of the stations with self-service machines). Not only is it a good idea to print the confirmation for the PNR, but also because the times for all the legs of your journey are listed as well. Your ticket will not necessarily show intermediate train changes and times. Whether the trains I want to use require reserved seats or not, if I know when I want to travel I usually buy the tickets before I leave the US and pick them up at the self-service machines.
Jeff
Pittsburgh, PA USA Fri 04/07/2006

Italy in August
My friend and I just decided to take a 2 week trip to Italy this summer including Venice Milan Rome Cinque Terre and Florence but due to our respective internships are windonw is Aug 5 through the 31 should we go right a way or at the end or is it worthe going to italy this time of year. Any input would be greatly appreciated. I have been to all of these sights but it was in June so I am a little nervous
Katie <email>
College Station, TX USA Fri 04/07/2006

paying cash for B&B
Laura, My family and i are going to europe next month and have made our reservations through Rick's books. We have choosen to go to our local bank and buy euros. For us the cost is $35 for any amount. Since we can only get out so much a day with our atm and to pay cash for b&b we saw no other way. hope this helps....we bought money belts to wear!!! denise
Denise
Iowa USA Fri 04/07/2006

To marhanal - cheap italy tix
You didn't mention where you are starting but here are my suggestions:

AA.com (american airlines) has pretty cheap tickets to Italy. Look at their website directly. Also, if those aren't cheap enough then book a cheap flight to London (depending on where you are flying from it is $300-$400) and then book a super cheap flight to Italy on either easyjet.com or ryanair.com.

I am going to Italy next month and I booked on AA, my sister booked London then Easyjet. I went to Rome 1 1/2 years ago in November and paid just over $500 on AA. Also that is a great month to go because it is the low season and there are no lines!!
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Fri 04/07/2006

Re: Cheap flights to Italy
I have always had the best luck buying 8 to 12 weeks before I go. That is about the time that consolidators are starting to move tickets, but there is still availability. I also use Travelocity and use their flexible dates options, that highlights the days that discounts or lower price tickets are available. Typically leaving and returning Monday through Wed. is cheaper for example. Try different cities as well, Milan for instance would be cheaper than Venice, sometimes cheaper than Rome. I will spend alot of time just looking, get a feel for what is a good price, then I feel OK about grabbing one when I see it, then don't second guess.
Paul <email>
IA USA Fri 04/07/2006

Help with Trenitalia please
On the same note as stefanie below.. I am trying to make trenitalia reservations for a night train from Milan to Rome and the website is not easy to decipher. Everything starts out in English but when you get to where you choose the fare and all of the specifics it's half english and half italian. Would it be a horrible thing if I made the reservations that morning I arrived in Milan if I'm going to be leaving that night?
Stephanie <email>
Tyler, TX USA Fri 04/07/2006

Italy train tickets
Does anyone know if buying tickets through the Trenitalia website while in North America and choosing the option to print them out from a ticket machine in Italy is any more expensive than buying the tickets while in Italy? I guess there is no point in doing that unless I am purchasing a ticket with a reserved seat, right? I am having a hard time deciding whether or not to get reservations for the different legs of my journey (Milan-Venice, Venice-CinqueTerre, CT-Florence, Florence-Siena, Siena-Rome). (I am going in May). Thanks for any advice.
Stefanie <email>
London, Ontario Canada Fri 04/07/2006

Jenny-suggestions
I have to agree with the previous comments that you should see Venice, especially on your honeymoon. While there, make sure to take a gondola ride. FYI, when we went a few years ago, I read on the Graffiti Wall to haggle with the gondoliers on price. The first price we were quoted was the equivalent of around $100. He wouldn't come down, so we walked away. The fourth (yes, fourth) gondolier quoted us about $65, which we accepted.

As previously mentioned, get off the main streets. We hated Venice until we started wandering the side streets. That's when we started loving it.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 04/07/2006

Cheap flights to Italy
I need help. I'm going to Italy in November. I usually use frequent flyer miles but this time I'm flying with friends and need to find the least expensive ticket for everyone. I know prices will fall later in the year but I'm trying to juggle price with assurance of three tickets. Does anyone have insight into the optimum time to book a flight for that time frame?
marhanal
lexington, nc USA Fri 04/07/2006

Trip out of Paris
Blue Denim-consider the Eurostar from Paris to London or Brussels. London is just a couple of hours away. Spend the night and take the train back the next evening. Same with Brussels. Maximum experience with minimum travel time. Much less time than flying.
TWalker <email>
lexington, nc USA Fri 04/07/2006

Joe-Train to Florence
Joe, I don't want to sound rude, but if you're going to Europe you really need to arm yourself with basic info, like transportation. But you've come the right place! I suggest you get Rick's Rome or Florence book. If you've never traveled in Europe before, Rick's books are especially helpful because he gives you the info you really need.

To answer your question, the train from Rome to Florence takes about 2 hours and costs about $40/person.

For more detailed info go to: www.trenitalia.it Select the English version and create your itinerary.
USA Thu 04/06/2006

Train to Florence
I will be in Italy (Rome) in two weeks for my first time. I would like to visit Florence. I heard that the train is the best way to get there. Any suggests where to catch or how much I will be paying?
Joe <email>
Chicago, Illinois USA Thu 04/06/2006

Anyone been to Italy in the last 2 months??
I heard that the Italian Trains started requiring you to reserve your seat ahead of time effective March 2006. Is this true? I will be needing a ticket from Bologna to Ancona on Monday May 1st and then Ancona to Venice on Thursday May 4th morning.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Thu 04/06/2006

atm problems
Laura, I CAN tell you that the AAA Visa Travel Money card charges 7% for currency conversion. Stay away from it!
USA Thu 04/06/2006

Venice not Florence
Jenny, Please consider taking two of your Florence days to spend in Venice. It is sooooo much more romantic than Florence with all the noise and street traffic. I think you will like Venice a lot more than Florence. I sure do!!!
USA Thu 04/06/2006

Spanish Civil War sites
I'll be visiting Barcelona and am looking for sites, exhibits, memorials to the Spanish Civil War, particularly pertaining to the volunteers who went to Spain to fight, as described in Hemingway's For Whom the Bell Tolls. Any suggestions?
Davelsi
Detroit, MI USA Thu 04/06/2006

Offerta Famiglia
TK, go to the Trenitalia website and click on Customers Area > Travel conditions > Traveller's guide.

It says, "Family Offer For family groups of two adults and one child aged between 4 and 12. When travelling together, whether in First or Second class, the child travels free of charge (reservation fee not included). The offer is also valid for journeys made in ordinary or comfort couchette carriages or in T3 tourist class berth compartments. For any other children aged between 4 and 12, the discount envisaged applies (30% for couchettes and sleeper carriages and 50% for all other trains)."

Also, "Discounts for young persons: children under 4 years of age travel free of charge both in first and second class, but they are not entitled to a seat. Young persons under 12 years of age (the age is considered on the day after their birthday) can occupy a seat and travel at a discount of 50% and of 30% for sleeper and couchette services."

I don't know if that helps. I wouldn't know how to add the second child at a 50% discount - never tried.
<email>
USA Thu 04/06/2006

atm problems/cash
Will be traveling to Italy in June and notice that alot of Rick Steve's suggested places to stay require cash. How do you suggest we handle this? Some of our stays will be about 3-4 nights and we'll need lots of cash withdrawls from ATM's. Has anyone heard of a Visa card that you put money into?
Laura <email>
Whittier, Ca USA Thu 04/06/2006

Offerta Famiglia Trenitalia
On the Trenitalia website, when choosing the offerta famiglia option and then adding an additional adult fare, for a total of 4 persons travelling, it only allows me to choose three seats. When choosing the family discount option, is the child not entitled to a seat? Grazie!
TK
CA USA Thu 04/06/2006

Venice late November
Is it gloomy or nice? Much less crowded than May? Do the streets and piazzas get flooded during rainy season?
USA Thu 04/06/2006

Jenny-suggestions
Jenny, if you want romantic you have to do Venice! Read a few of the posting below about Venice. I like Kristin's posting from 03/31/2006 "I, too, thought Venice would be a tourist trap nightmare that just had to be "done, but wound up loving it (we spent 2 nights - adequate, if you can spare one from your plan)."

It's a place that just feels other-worldly. Definitely try to get off of the beaten path into the neighborhoods.

And it's your honeymoon so you have to do the gondola ride. Again, try to find a route that's not as popular. See Rick's book for tips.
Lisa
San Jose, USA Thu 04/06/2006

Suggestions!
I am looking for some advice on "must-sees" in Europe. My fiance & I are going to Florence in September (by ourselves) to get married. We have a jam-packed trip planned & I would like to know the best attractions to hit. We will be in Florence for 4 days & plan to take a day trip to Rome, Pisa, & maybe Venice. We are then taking a night train to Munich for 3 days. From there, we are taking another night train to Paris for 2 1/2 days & then finishing our trip in London for 2 1/2 days. We are excited to spend a day at Oktoberfest, but we pretty much have an open schedule from there. I would appreciate any suggestions for the best attractions in a short amount of time, as well as romantic places to see, being it is our honeymoon! Thank you
Jenny <email>
MN USA Thu 04/06/2006

RE: Rail & drive
Courtney, I really don't think you want to use rail passes.

First, note that the least expensive saver pass, 3 countries, 5 days, at $325 per person, does NOT include the Czech Republic or Slovakia (the fastest connection between Prague and Budapest, by over an hour, is through Slovakia).

There is also a $172 per person, 5 day Eastern Europe pass that includes Austria, Czech Rep., Slovakia, and Hungary, but not Germany.

However, as Rick pointed out, rail fare in Eastern Europe is low. The fastest train from Munich to Prague is a regional connection via Furth im Wald. Full fare is about €50. However, for two people you can buy single tickets from Furth to Prague for €18,60 per person and use a €25 Bayern pass to get to the Czech border - €31 per person.

I used the websites for Czech, Slovakian, and Hungarian Rail to put together an estimate of a little over €24 for Prague to Budapest. The actual fare will be a little higher. These rail websites only give the fare to the nearest border stop in their country, so I have a total of 30 minutes of "fare gaps" (out of 6 hr 45 min). The fare may also vary depending on in what country you buy the ticket.

Using the same procedure, I estimate the fare from Budapest to Vienna at €17,45.

So the fare from the Czech border to Prague to Budapest to Vienna should be around €60, about $75. Unless you use it an awful lot on the other two days, the Eastern Europe pass won't pay.

Lastly, that night train to Köln. The €29 fare is for a seat at a Savings Night fare. It has to be purchased 3 days in advance, and it is available for self print on the Bahn website. The train is run by City Night Line, and on their website you can find Savings Night fares for a double compartment for €89. The supplement and reservation for the same compartment with a rail pass is €49,50, so a rail pass only saves you €40 overall.
<email>
USA Thu 04/06/2006

re: Melk-Krems
Sally - the Melk-Krems trip was a highlight of our Vienna visit, especially since we were a little "citied out" then. We arranged the travel ourselves over there at the last minute (trains plus the boat), and it was very easy. Not much less cost than your tour though, I don't think, so go for it!
Kristin
USA Thu 04/06/2006

Thank you Norm!
Norm,

Thank you so very much! Please think of this email post as a big hug! I can't tell you how much we appreciate your help. Happy Travels!
Beth <email>
Indianapolis, IN USA Thu 04/06/2006

Venice
Venice is definitely a challenge to get around. There are tons of canals, and consequently tons of bridges - some with large bridges, many with smaller bridges, all with stairs to climb. You can hardly get anywhere without going over some of these bridges. My husband and I arrived with 4 huge suitcases (our first time to Europe) and had to pay someone to wheel them to our hotel because of all the stairs. Having said that, if you used the vaporetto to get from place to place, that would cut down on the number of bridges that you had to cross. Also, you could cut your stay a little short and just take a ride down the grand canal to the Piazza San Marco, have something to eat, go to St. Marks, and even pick one or two other things to do and call it a day. Venice is a really cool experience, and I think you could still see some of the important sites and get a feel for the city.
Chicago, USA Thu 04/06/2006

Need help in Italy!
Hi, I will be in Italy/Croatia the first week of May. Looking for advice and your travel tips on my itinerary:

Sunday - Fly into Frankfurt 7am need to transfer to Frankfurt-Hahn to catch a Ryanair flight to Bologna at 3pm. Arrive at Bologna-Forli 5pm. Need a place to stay in Bologna (hostel) on Sunday night.

Monday take an afternoon train to Ancona. Board the 9pm overnight ferry to Croatia.

Tuesday arrive 7am in Croatia, need a hostel for 1 night.

Wednesday leave Croatia 9pm overnight Ferry.

Thursday arrive 7am in Ancona, need to catch a train to Venice in morning. Will also need a hostel in Venice for Thursday and Friday night.

Saturday leave Venice - need to catch afternoon Ryanair flight at Venice- Treviso. Arrive back at Frankfurt Hahn. Need to get back to Frankfurt and find a Hostel for Saturday night.

Sunday morning need to get to the Frankfurt Int. aiport to fly back to the states.

I need bus/transfer advice to and from airports and cities as well as trains. Also, I am having a hard time finding a hostel in Bologna. Any and all advice is greatly appreciated!! You can also email me! Thanks!
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Thu 04/06/2006

Railpass
Adam....several sources of information have already been provided to your earlier question on exactly the same subject...whether point to point tickets or a rail pass would be better. You should check them out yourself to make an informed decision. We can't make the decision for you, nor are we here to do all the checking that you can do yourself.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 04/06/2006

weekend bus from Seville to Lagos/Faro
Alsa has a bus that makes the trip seven days a week, according to their website....2 trips a day, one in the mid-morning, the other at midnight. It's about a 90 minute trip. Go to http://www.alsa.es/portal/index.asp?lang=en , then click on "Routes and times." You can even buy the tickets on-line if you wish....16 Euros one-way, 28 Return. Remember than your tickets have your seat numbers listed...they're reserved, not just open for anyone to grab.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 04/06/2006

SWISS carryon
I'm flying SWISS out of JFK - ZRH - LIS. I see that they have a ~17 lb. carry on weight. Can I bring a purse, too, or is that just *total* that can be carried on? Anyone with experience? I am getting conflicting info.
Stephanie
Columbus, OH USA Thu 04/06/2006

Re: paris and one other city
bluedenim - Venice and Prague are a bit far from Paris. Your ideas are doable, but you will spend a healthy chunk of your one week travelling. Some other, closer destinations to consider are Normandy, the Loire Valley, Colmar, and even the Rhine River area. In fact, one possible route would be Paris to Colmar to the Rhine, then flying home from Frankfurt. Just a thought.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Thu 04/06/2006

Slow Walker in Venice
I have limited mobility, but I really want to go to Venice even if I can't do everything. Does anyone in similar condition have an experience to share?
Diane Schroeder <email>
Brookfield, WI USA Thu 04/06/2006

Railpass
IM flying into Amsterdam on May 4-7, then train to paris until the 11. From Paris I want to go to cirque tierre, then head towards naples, maybe even capri, and then fly outta rome on the 19th. With that travel in store and who knows what else, would a 5day 3 country youthselct pass be good, or should i get point to point. You tell me.
AdamRiemer <email>
detroit, mi USA Thu 04/06/2006

Queen's Day in Amsterdam
I have a question about Queen's Day in Amsterdam, please! My travel plans are to leave from Manchester to Newcastle on April 28th, take an overnight ferry to arrive in Amsterdam on the 29th, and spend the 29th through to the 1st of May in Amsterdam. My question: is Queen's Day a worthwhile festival to attend, will Amsterdam's crowdednes detract from actually experiencing the city, and are these travel plans too ambitious? Thank you so much!
Rohit Sharma <email>
Toronto, ON Canada Thu 04/06/2006

Kids at Dachau
Thank you for the thoughts about kids and Dachau. As I said I've been there myself and agree it's an important place to visit. I think it would be good for the 9 year old, but it's too overwelming for the 4 year old. Since my husband's grandparents perished in the holocaust, it's very close to home for us.
Cathy
USA Thu 04/06/2006

paris and one other city
I only have a week to play with this year much to my dissatisfaction....and I am not sure where to go....

I want to go back to paris and will be arriving at CDG.

I was thinking about going to either Venice or Praque for 3 nights and the remaining nights in Paris. (I have spent 8 nights in paris last year)

I was thinking is this doable or should I just stay in paris?

Should I stay the first night in Paris or should I simply just spend the first day in the airport?

Also in looking at the airlines I might have to get to Orly...how far is it from CDG to Orly?
bluedenim
canada Thu 04/06/2006

beaches
Kelly try Sitges which is 30 minute train ride from Barcelona....
USA Thu 04/06/2006

Brian on Ireland
To Brian driving in Ireland is the only way.Im 67 and had no problems.We took a day trip from Galway and a number of city sightseeing trips.Any other info I can provide contavct me.best regards
jack <email>
Sheboygan, wi USA Thu 04/06/2006

Rail & Drive
Courtney - Yes, if you have a railpass you will have to pay for both a reservation and a couchette on night trains. From my quick check of timetables and prices, I think point-to-point tickets will be a lot cheaper for you. Munich-Prague: less than E50. Prague-Budapest: I didn't find prices, but train travel in Eastern Europe is very cheap. Budapest-Vienna: I didn't find prices, but why take a night train? It's less than three hours. Salzburg-Cologne: The night train can be as little as E29. Why not rent a car independently for Vienna-Salzburg and buy point-to-point train tickets for everything else? Note: To get the cheapest ticket for Salzburg-Cologne, book well in advance on either the Austrian national rail site or the German national rail site.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 04/06/2006

LUGGAGE AND TRAIN IN ROME
John: After having taken the train from many airports to downtown in Europe, I can recommend that method of travel if you are on a limited budget. I do all I can to avoid taxi fares.

Most trains and busses have a storage area for your luggage so you don’t have to hold it on your lap.

Even when they don’t , you set your bags on the floor at your feet or on the seat beside you.
USA Thu 04/06/2006

PHONE CARDS
Christine: Don’t buy your card here. From what I read on this page, travelers suggest going to a super market or grocery store in Italy to buy your card. That is the cheapest way.
USA Thu 04/06/2006

LODGING IN VERNAZZA CT
Ray: Do a google.com search for each place by listing its name plus “Cinque Terre”. You will find all of those which have a web page.

Some will list their phone number and email address.
J K M
DALLAS, TX USA Thu 04/06/2006

CINQUE TERRRE IN NOVEMBER
Lisa: The CT weather is great in November. In the week we were there it rained lightly several afternoons, but not enough to matter.

And the scenery is worth the effort to get there. Be sure to take the hike between villages even if it is the short version.

Read the following letters in this column.
marty
chicago, USA Thu 04/06/2006

DON GIOVANNI OPERA PRAGUE
Rick: I suggest you order your tickets now. Otherwise you may find them sold out when you arrive in Prague.

That happened to me in Moscow when I found no tickets available for the ballet.

I had to settle for the Bolshoi opera the next day. Bummer.
USA Thu 04/06/2006

Rail & Drive
I am trying to wade through the mire of rail choices today. We're mainly planning to use trains for travelling between countries and using public transport once we're in cities. I have printed out Rick Steve's worksheet and point-to-point map to check for myself, but it's still fairly overwhelming.

There are 2 of us travelling together and our main train needs are: Munich-Prague; Prague-Budapest; Budapest-Vienna (night train or a trip down the Danube); We'll probably take several sightseeing days and drive Vienna-Salzburg; and then finish up hopefully with a night train Salzburg-Cologne (trips spanning 14 days)

First question is do all night trains need reservations at a supplemental cost?

I only read of one SelectPass Drive on Rick's site and it only covered 3 neighboring countries (could maybe work for us if we took a boat for the Budapest-Vienna leg otherwise we have 4 countries rather than 3)...it's listed as $318 so even though it covers two I'm guessing I have to double the price to $636 plus the cost of the Budapest-Vienna trip, correct?

Are there other SelectPasses that including driving for more countries? He also listed a Scanrail & Drive but didn't say what it covered. Is there anything else that I need to consider/figure in before choosing a pass?

Thanks
Courtney <email>
USA Thu 04/06/2006

Milan to Chamonix via Mont Blanc Tunnel?
Has anyone traveled from Milan to Chamonix using a train to Aosta and then taking the bus through the Mont Blanc tunnel to Chamonix? This sounds like a good option, given that the train trip takes around 6 hours via Marigny. I have not been able to locate any time table for the Aosta-Chamonix bus service. In the RS France book, it says to get schedules at the TI in Chamonix. Any guidance?
Will <email>
AZ USA Thu 04/06/2006

Thron Hotels Membership
When the hotel I wanted, the one RS uses, tells me they are full for my dates, I was using the membership line to try to get a room anyway. It worked and I am more than happy to pay 820 kr.
Charlie <email>
Hololulu, HI USA Wed 04/05/2006

Cathy...Dachau
I have been to Dachau also. I think you should take your 9 yr old there for the reasons stated in the previous post, but I do not think you should take your 4 yr old. Way too young, in my humble opinion.
USA Wed 04/05/2006

Cathy- Dachau
Don't NOT take your kids. It is important they understand what happened there, and that they do not forget. it is suitable for kids. Taking them and explaing to them what happened and not sheltering them will make them children of the world, They will see the injustice and hopefully stick up for another child in time of need. PLEASE TAKE THEM, and explain to them so they understand!
USA Wed 04/05/2006

weekend bus from Seville to Lagos/Faro
Greetings!

My husband and I will be traveling to Spain and Portugal from May 21 to June 3. We are looking for a bus from Seville to Lagos/Faro (to get to Salema) on a Saturday (May 27.) I have searched for hours in books and the internet just to find the busses that make this route and have come up with the Eva and Damas bus companies. However, both list on their websites that the bus from Seville to Lagos/Faro only runs Monday through Friday. Does anyone out there know if this is true? We have a lot riding on this schedule because we will have a rental car waiting for us to pick up in Faro. Please, please, please can anyone help us? Many thanks in advance!
Beth <email>
Indianapolis, IN USA Wed 04/05/2006

Don Giovanni Opera - PRAGUE
My Wife and I are going to be visiting Pargue in August. I would like to visit the Oprea. Are the on-line sites a safe way to obtain tickets or should we wait until we get to town?
Rick <email>
Boston, MA USA Wed 04/05/2006

Cinque Terre in November
Does anyone know what Cinque Terre is like in the middle of November? Would it be a good side trip during that time of the year?
Lisa
Sacramento, CA USA Wed 04/05/2006

Phone Cards??
I guess it boils down to preference. We never use phones to contact the States due to time differences. Instead we use the uniquitous cyber cafes for email. Special circs like calling your bank would seem to call for phones. Cards are best bought there.
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Wed 04/05/2006

Sally - Tour from Vienna to Krems, Melk
I took the tour in 2005. It was great. Spend the 61 Euro's and take the tour.
tx USA Wed 04/05/2006

week in Ireland
Reference l week in Ireland.I would drive to Waterford(if you wish to visit)and stay in Kinsale 1 night.Then to Dingle Town for 2 nights,2 nights in Galway.You could stay Kenmare l night also.We found great B&Bs in these towns.best regards jack
jack <email>
sheboygan, wi USA Wed 04/05/2006

Spanish or French Beaches???
I don't know if this is the best place to ask this question, but...We are 5 20-somethings traveling to France (Paris, French Alps) and Spain (Barcelona, Madrid) at the beginning of September. We want to go to a beach! Is it better to hit south of France or go a beach in Spain (within close proximity of Barcelona)? I've heard mixed reviews of both. Money and travel time are somewhat of an issue, but we want to hit the best beach area for sun, sand and other 20-somethings!! Any suggestions??? :)
Kelly <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Wed 04/05/2006

Kids around Dachau
I'll be traveling to Munich with my family in July. My husband and 18 year old are interested in visiting the former concenration camp in Dachau. Having already seen it, I'm trying to research alternatives to entertain my two young children (ages 4 and 9)while they are at the camp. Does anyone know of any parks or other fun places not too far away from Dachau? We'll have a car so transportation isn't a problem
Cathy
MN USA Wed 04/05/2006

Lodging in Vernazza Cinque Terre Area
Does anyone know haw to contact any of the following recommended by travelers on RS's Graffiti Wall and/or Frommers - Patrizia's Apartments, Elisabetta's Villino, Alberto Milano, Camere Elizabetta, Hotel LaColonnina Cinque or Teree Monterosso? Thanks, in advance, for any help provided. I'm planing to vist this area 20/05/06 through 23/05/06 for 3 night. Ray
Ray <email>
Worthington, Ohio USA Wed 04/05/2006

ROME TERMINI STATION
Those of you who plan to use Rome Termini Station may be interested in this dedicated website: http://www.romatermini.it/pagine.cfm?cont=m_1&lang=en
USA Wed 04/05/2006

Hotels in Murren
The Hotel Eiger is excellent - great rooms, service and food.

Whatever your choice, be aware when planning hikes and transportation that the funicular from Lauterbrunnen to Grutschalp is closing, so the only way to Murren (other than walking) will be via Stechelberg using post-bus and cable car.
Kate
Scotland Wed 04/05/2006

Christine - phone card
I have always gotten phone cards once I am in Italy. They are much cheaper. I have even found cards for 5 euros that allow 300 minutes of calling back to the US. Shop around at the local "tabacchi." These are tobacco shops that sell phone cards and bus tickets (and cigarettes, small souvenirs, disposable cameras, etc). They are all over larger cities and even smaller cities.
Chicago, USA Wed 04/05/2006

Luggage and train between FCO and Rome
You'll have to handle your own luggage on Italian trains--another reason to pack light. The direct train to Roma Termini is pretty easy to find from the airport, and cheaper than a taxi. Also, if you've never taken an Italian taxi before, you might want to ease your way into town by the train--it's less harrowing. Termini, on the other hand, also can be harrowing. The airport train arrives at the farthest possible outside track, and it can be confusing to find your way to the taxi stand. Just remember to relax and keep your sense of humor.
M. Iverson <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 04/05/2006

Phone Card
I have had very good luck with Net2Phone - www.net2phone.com. You prepay into an account and they give you an account number and PIN as well as access numbers for almost all foreign countries. In some countries the access number is toll free and in others you need to use a local phone card to call it.
Jeff
USA Wed 04/05/2006

Railpass, itinerary advice
Adam...it depends on how much you'll actually be travelling. Check out point to point tickets first...it may be cheaper, especially if you find some deals. Trains like Thalys (the only way to get from Amsterdam to Paris) require a reservation (fee) and a supplemental charge above and beyond your rail pass, as do most of the premium fast trains these days. And reservations for pass holders are being very severely limited by many national rail networks these days. Check out http://www.thalys.com/fr/en/, http://www.sncf.fr/indexe.htm (French national rail system) and http://www.trenitalia.com/en/index.html (Italian rail system). Each of these sites can be used to check schedules and prices, and book tickets if you want (except for Thalys, which you may have to book through Raileurope.com)
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Wed 04/05/2006

Padova (Padua)
We spent four nights in Padova in March, and loved it. If you're in the core of the ancient city, it is a grand place to wander around and soak up local flavor, history, and art. Three enormous and splendid churches, the Capella Scrovegni, museums, parks, the original Botanic Garden, an enormous and beautiful central piazza, a 24/7 coffee house of legendary proportions, medieval streets, good food, friendly people and tiny shops make Padova a lovely place to spend several days and get a good sense of Italian life.
M. Iverson <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 04/05/2006

Phone Cards
Should I get a pre-paid phone card in the US before I go to Italy or should I just get one there? Any particular company or card brand recommended? Where do I buy them at? Thanks.
Christine <email>
Huntington, WV USA Wed 04/05/2006

Luggage and train between FCO and Rome
If we take the short express train from Rome Fiumicino Airport to the center of town, do we just hold all of our luggage in our laps? Is it better to take a taxi?
John
Raleigh, NC USA Wed 04/05/2006

Luggage Storage in Florence Train Station
We stored our luggage for a few hours in Santa Maria Novella Station in Firenze in March (2006), but I don't recall whether or not they store items overnight.
M. Iverson <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 04/05/2006

Dan Dooley
Dan Dooley is a major car rental ompany in Ireland. However, before booking with them, check www.autoeurope.com. Auto Europe is a consolidator that finds you the best price from among any of a number of companies. If you find a better price on your own, AE promises to either match it or beat it. If your credit card provides insurance coverage in Ireland (many specifically EXCLUDE Ireland so check with your provider), decline the CDW and you'll get an even better price.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 04/05/2006

Dan Dooley Car Rental (Ireland)
Has anyone rented a car in Ireland using Dan Dooley’s car rental service? Their prices are a lot lower for a 9 day rental than the other companies I’ve found, but I’m worried they might be a tiny company and we’ll run into problems….any experiences with them?? Thanks!!
Kathy
VA USA Wed 04/05/2006

Does anyone know if you can still store luggage at the train station in Florence, Italy post 9/11?
AGV
USA Wed 04/05/2006

Lisa - Padua
My husband and I went to Padua last May to see the Arena (Scrovegni) Chapel by Giotto. It was a nice day trip from where we were staying in Ferrara; it would also be a nice day trip from Venice. If you are going to see the Arena Chapel, make sure you call in advance to reserve tickets!!!
Chicago, USA Wed 04/05/2006

Charlie: Norway Hotels
Charlie, I hope you realize that 1395 kr (Norwegian crowns) equals $217? And that the membership rate of 820 kr is $127? That senior rate is $150. You can get much better prices using tripadvisor.com (from $96 to $141 regular rate.) For currency converter, I use xe.com. Pearl
Pearl
NC USA Wed 04/05/2006

Dave/Paris/Nice
I have made the transfer in Paris several times, it is as they say. Your luggage moves by itself, you go thru customs (not a long wait usually), check in for your next flight and go to the waiting area. If you read French, check out www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/ the website for the Paris airports. You can preview where you will be landing, where your next flight leaves from, etc. It is a huge airport, many terminals..I would suggest printing out a map or so...perhaps the Air France site might have details as well. I have flown AF and they can be good, very good, and not so good. Check your return flight carefully...sometimes a regional flight will leave from CDG and return to Orly...and then you have to take the Air France bus (at your own cost) carrying your baggage with you. All that being said, have a wonderful time
Lynda <email>
Mount Washington, CA USA Tue 04/04/2006

Dave-Paris/Nice
You go thru Customs in Paris.
USA Tue 04/04/2006

USING ATM MACHINES
The best way to find an ATM machine that will provide you with currency is to check it to see which systems it accepts.

Your card will have the systems it needs listed on the back. You may have to try several machines or banks to find one which will take your card.

In the Frankfurt airport I had to try 3 machines before I found one which would accept my card.

Don’t give up. I have used my card in 13 different countries.
WAITE
TX USA Tue 04/04/2006

murren,switzerland
my wife and i will be in switzeland in july. would like to stay in murren for a base for hiking.found two hotels that look good. edelweiss and swiss q hotel. any recommendations?
eric momberger <email>
pgh, pa USA Tue 04/04/2006

RAILPASS AND ITINERARY ADVICE
ADAM; Check the rail pass suppliers listed on the net and call a toll free number and talk with an agent about which pass will best serve you.

Your plan sounds OK. You might decide after a few days in Italy to move on to another country.

As long as your itinerary is tentative, you can change it any time you choose. Just be sure to catch your flight home.
CHARME
LA, CA USA Tue 04/04/2006

For Denise - Train Reservations in Italy
If you go to www.bahn.de, the German Rail site that has timetables for most of Europe, and ask for Milan-Florence routes, you will see that InterCity trains don't require reservations while EuroStar Italia trains do. In Italy, if you can be flexible on your travel times, you should be able to keep your reservation fees to a minimum.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 04/04/2006

Denise and reservations
Reservations partly, in my experience, depend on when you are traveling- you don't specify. If it is in the "high season" and on a popular route and especially with a group (so you can be sure to sit together)then I think it's well worth it for the extra 10-20$/ticket- you can check the Trenitalia website, for starters, for route maps/timetables and classes of trains to your destination. Please don't be so hard on yourself, though- planning a huge trip is so hard to do and it's such a fine line between doing what you can ahead of time versus waiting until you get there!
Karen
USA Tue 04/04/2006

Norway Hotels
while looking for hotels in Norway, I joined the Thron Hotel Chain (for no good reason at the time) membership club - simple as filling out a web page - they assigned me a membership number and password. I ended up booking a room at one of their hotels in Bergen. Rack rate: 1395kr, senior rate: 970kr, membership rate: 820kr!! If you are looking toward Norway, check it out.
Charlie <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Tue 04/04/2006

Tour from Vienna to Krems, Melk
We are a party of 4, trying to decide whether to shell out 120 Euros per person for a private van, or whether to take the 61-Euros-per-person, 8 hour Royaltours group excursion from Vienna to Durstein, Krems, and Melk,including boat trip on Danube, ending at Opera House in Vienna? Anyone have any advice?
Sally <email>
Arkansas City, KS USA Tue 04/04/2006

eurorail passes
I purchased a 21 day eurorail passes for my family thinking there would be very few reservation train only to find out that nearly all have to have reservations. How very disapointing after paying over 600 dollars per ticket. Has anyone else ran into this? Reservations have cost us between 10 and 20 dollars. Do any of the eurorail trains need reservations south of Florence? I can understand the reservations for us to travel to Sicily and back but from Milan to Florence i was surprised! Any words of wisdom????
Denise
Iowa USA Tue 04/04/2006

Lisa-- La Scala tickets
Get them as soon as you know your dates-- when I checked recently for mid May, there was exactly ONE ticket left for the night I was interested in.
USA Tue 04/04/2006

October Italy Tickets
When would you buy tickets for Early October to Italy? Is it too early now? Will prices drop?
USA Tue 04/04/2006

Non-Smoking Rooms
My experience with Non-Smoking rooms in Europe have been disappointing. I think all it means is that you don't actually have to smoke while you're in the room. The last guy did and the next guy will, but you don't have too. You're free to use the ashtray as a paper weight if you like.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Tue 04/04/2006

La Scala
Has anyone been to La Scala? Is it difficult to get tickets? How upscale is the dress? Any info or suggestions would be helpful. Thanks!
Lisa <email>
San Jose, CA USA Tue 04/04/2006

Lisa-re Padua Italy
I stayed overnight there in 2004 opposite Basilica.However I feel a day trip is ample to see Basilica, university and S chapel recom by Rick. Nice town but do not short your stay in Venice to see Padua.
JS
Ca USA Tue 04/04/2006

Tube travel in London
Jennifer, if the Oyster Card includes travel in Zone 6 then you DO NOT need to buy a separate train ticket for Hampton Court. Just jump on the train that says "Hampton Court" and show your card to the conductor if asked.
USA Tue 04/04/2006

Touring the Rhine
I only mentioned the VRM thing as a fine difference between St. Goar and Bacharach. If you stay in Bacharach, you can still get a €23 Rheinland-Pfalz ticket which is good all day in the same area and more.

Compared to the cost and inconvenience of a rental car in that area, either town if fine.
<email>
USA Tue 04/04/2006

Touring the Rhine
How would you see the Rhine area with the castles? Would you pick up a rental car at the airport in Koln before heading to the Rhine and see the castles that way or would you wait until you are leaving the Rhine for the Romantic Road and get it then?

I've heard arguments for both but the posting about St Goar and Bacharach concerned me. We plan to stay in Bacharach and would also like to see Burg Eltz. Would having the car already make the issue of the VRM unimportant?
USA Tue 04/04/2006

Travelcard or Oyster Card in London
When I was in London last May I asked for what I thought was my best pass option. The person at the ticket window told me of a better deal and said she was required to suggest the best possible deal for any traveler's transportation needs. That said, from what I've read, the Oyster Card may be your best choice--so long as you don't mind paying the deposit and collecting it again along with any unused money credited on the card when you're ready to leave London.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 04/04/2006

Re: Tube travel in London
Jennifer - We also ran into the same issue. I know that this is not the best answer, but we finally gave up and just asked the Tube attendants who are stationed near the turnstiles. Wonderfully helpful. We just told them our plans and they told us the best ticket/pass to buy.

FYI, you cannot reach Hampton Court Palace on the Tube. Take the Tube to Waterloo Station, where you can buy a train ticket to Hampton Court Palace. Hampton Court Palace and Tower of London offer combo tickets, where, if you buy a ticket ahead of time to multiple castles, the admission cost less. There are a few other castles offered, but I don't remember which ones. http://www.historicroyalpalaces.org I'm not seeing any info on the site about combo tickets, but they were offered at the ticket booths in the fall of 2004.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 04/04/2006

Tube travel in London
We will be in London this September for seven days (13-19). I am trying to find the cheapest option for Tube tickets as we will be using the Tube quite extensively. On the tfl website, I found that I have two options: the Oyster Card or the 7 Day Pass. I was able to find the cost for the 7 Day passes and thought this was our best option; however, I am concerned as I thought I read somewhere that the 7 days passes won't be valid beginning sometime in September (before our trip starts). If that is the case, I assume I will need to use the Oyster Card. Does anyone know the cost for this card (i.e. is it per Tube trip, does it depend on the zones traveled, etc). Also, is the Oyster Card the best option for us? We will mostly be traveling in zones 1-2, but will also travel slightly in zones 3 and 4 (Hampton Court Palace, Kew Gardens, etc) and will be taking the train to Windsor Castle. Any advice or feedback regarding the Tube in London would be much appreciated!
Jennifer <email>
Lynnwood, WA USA Tue 04/04/2006

NICE TO FLORENCE
FOR AMANDA: Copy and paste the following link to the ever-reliable German Rail Site ... http://reiseauskunft.bahn.de/bin/query.exe/en?ld=212.52&OK#focus Enter Nice Ville and Firenze as departure and arrival points plus date and time of travel. You should get all the info you need except the international fare.
<email>
UK Tue 04/04/2006

Berchtesgaden tours
Steve, the bus from Salzburg hbf to Berchtesgaden is called the Watzmann Express and you can purchase a day ticket (Tageskarte) good not only for the round trip but for all the regular buses in Berchtesgaden. The price is €8, and, I think, you buy it from the bus driver in Salzburg. That would take you from the Berchtesgaden Busbahnhof to Hintereck, but probably not cover the bus to the mountain top. That bus, plus admission to Kehlsteinhaus, plus the elevator the last few hundred feet to the top should cost €12.
<email>
USA Tue 04/04/2006

Nice to Florence
looking for a way to get from Nice to Florence by train. can't seem to find a direct or quick way to get there. can anyone help. thanks in advance
Amanda
Thunder Bay, Canada Tue 04/04/2006

St.Goar/Bacharach
Cathi, two thoughts. If you stay in Bacharach, avoid hotels next to the tracks, like Kranenturm. Although some people say the train noise doesn't bother them, others have complained bitterly. Im Malerwinkel doesn't have that problem; neither it appears does Binz.

If you are going to do sightseeing further down the river (Boppard, Koblenz, Marksburg, Burg Eltz, Cochem) is might be good to stay in St. Goar. St. Goar is in the VRM (Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Mosel). For €18,80 they sell a mini-group day pass good for up to 5 people on all the buses and trains in the Verkehrsverbund all day (after 9 AM weekdays). Bacharach is not in the Verkehrsverbund, so you would have to buy a separate ticket to get into the Verkehrsverbund, or you would use a Rheinland-Pfalz ticket for all day for €23. With the Rheinland-Pfalz ticket you could go all the way to Trier.
<email>
USA Tue 04/04/2006

Railpass, itinerary advice
IM flyingtinto Amsterdam May 4, and want to take train to france/paris, and then spend last leg of trip in Italy where i will depart out of as well on May18. What is best rail pass for me. Ive been told its smarter if i just visit three countries in 14 days and i really want to hit the beaches, so figure ill spend 6 days in Italy, 2 Amsterdam and 4 in France w/ 2 days of room to do whatever whereever?? WHat do yall think
Adam Riemer <email>
Detroit, MI USA Tue 04/04/2006

Smoking Rooms? for Al
Based solely on having previewed hotel rooms in Europe, some smoking & some not, I say this.

There won't be any *smoke* in the room, which you can expect be clean, but the place will reek of tobacco smoke.

This may not bother you if you are a smoker. If you are not, you must know how sensitive you are.

That you are even considering this suggests that you have a high tolerance. Good luck whater you decide!
Adam
Boston, USA Tue 04/04/2006

Berchtesgaden tours
Steve, I have been to Kehlsteinhaus (Eagles Nest) twice. Even eating lunch there it didn't take four hours, so I am assuming that is a four hour round trip tour from Salzburg. That seems a little short and Awfully expensive.

You can do it on your own. Just take the bus or train to Berchtesgaden. I don't know what the bus costs; it takes about 45 min. The train takes just over an hour. and costs €7,60 each way. Either way, go to the busbahnhof in Berchtesgaden and tell them you want to go to Kehlsteinhaus. They will probably sell you a ticket to Hintereck, where you will buy the bus ticket and admission for Kehlsteinhaus. The buses go up a private road to a parking lot just below the top of the mountain. In the parking lot you will probably find English speaking guides selling tours for a few Euro. There is really not much to the tour; if you have already read up on the history of Kelhsteinhaus, it is probably not necessary.

In addition to Kehlsteinhaus, you probably want to see the Dokumentation Center, which is near the Hintereck bus stop at the base of the mountain. This center has a lot of exhibits with history of the Nazi takeover, and also of the private homes of the top Nazis and the SS center in Obersalzberg. You can tour some of the remaining bunkers there.
<email>
USA Tue 04/04/2006

Smoking rooms?
We're staying in a pension (specifically Pension Edorta in San Sebastian, Spain - recommended by Rick's Spain book) and I was wondering how smokey a smoking room is. I'm finding that non-smoking rooms generally are not available, and if they are, they're not guaranteed. Thanks.
AL
CA USA Tue 04/04/2006

ATM-CASH DEBATE---several years ago I was with a friend in Switzerland for two weeks and she found that her ability to extract cash from any and all ATMs was nonexistant. Repeated calls to her credit union in Seattle only told her that nothing was amiss at that end: plenty of funds were available (probably because she couldn't get at them!). When she moved on to France the problem magically disappeared though I think it may have surfaced again in Venice. So---yes, it can happen. But the solution is simple: always travel with a partner whose card(s) DO work. Best wishes
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 04/04/2006

St.Goar/Bacharach
Guten tag, I'm looking for quick recommendations on several zimmers: In Bacharach - Pension Binz (no web site) and Im-Malerwinkel (thank you Larry). In St. Goar - Hotel Hauser. We're looking for all the usual, good price, clean, quiet, great breakfast, scenic view, easy to get around....all the usual ! Can anyone input on these three places or some other favorite?
Cathi <email>
Port Gibson, MS USA Tue 04/04/2006

Troy's freighter question
Troy, while this may not be a universal finding, here is my experience: 3 nice size (100Sq ft.)cabins, good , but basic food, eaten with the capt and senior crew. Everyone spoke some English. 10x10 5 ft pool.No gym. Not much of a view other then giant platic boxes. Not nearly as stable as a giant cruise ship-you will feel the ocean. If you like a small group or time to reflect, this it it. TV, books and tapes in limited supply. About 15 days from Norfolk to Genoa for $2k. I am glad I did it once, but wouldn't do it again.
Bob <email>
Gettysburg, PA USA Tue 04/04/2006

Dave: In respect with Schengen countries you always go through immigration at your first point of entry i.e. Paris. You normally go through customs at your final destination. The reason is that your luggage is checked through, and you cannot clear customs without your luggage, obviously. Sometimes, when travelling to smaller, non-international airports, you can't go through customs at your final destination since they don't have a customs checkpoint and thus can't check your baggage through. This is probably not the case for Nice!
Chrismo
Denmark Tue 04/04/2006

Freighters
Rich There are websites that deal with trips by cargo ship across Atlantic. There are also ones in Med and Pacific. Offfhand, I dont remember but things like "passengers on freighters" should work as searches. These trips are usually as expensive or nearly so, as cruises. There are many fewer passengers and fewer things like pools, tho many such ships are now outfitted thus.Also, it is likely that there will be no set tduration for the sailing.Those ships often make extra stops and longer port stays , depending on opportunities that arise for added cash. Best of luck.
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport, MA USA Tue 04/04/2006

Europe by Boat
I'm sure that Michael Palin's "Around the World in Eighty Days" (BBC) travelled from North America to Europe by boat, and it was a cargo boat rather than a cruise ship. No idea on costs or how to arrange it.
Rich <email>
Canterbury, Kent UK Tue 04/04/2006

Greek Ferries
I need info on Greek ferries, more specifically ferries to Santorini. I have found one site, but I am looking for overnight boats, has anyone taken one before? Any sites would be helpful, as I have only found one of any use. Thanks!
Kimberly <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 04/04/2006

Europe by sea
I know I've heard you can take barge trips to Africa, I'm sure there are probably similar trips to Europe. Might be something to look into.
USA Mon 04/03/2006

Padua
Has anyone stayed in Padua? Wht are your thoughts? Is this worth a 1-night stay or just a day trip from Venice?
Lisa
San Jose, CA USA Mon 04/03/2006

PARKING AT VERNAZZA
GM: Parking at Vernazza is outside the town and on the shoulder of the road. I did not see a parking lot.

I would not feel comfortable leaving my car out there. Since it is remote from the town.

I would prefer to park at Levanto and ride the train to Vernazza about 15 minutes away. The fare is cheap.
USA Mon 04/03/2006

Advice wanted: Berchtesgaden tours
I will be staying in Salzburg for 1.5 days in July and am thinking about a day trip to Berchtesgaden. I dig military history and won't have a car. There are a couple of 'Eagle's Nest' tours that take ~4 hours and cost ~35 euros. Two questions: anyone want to share their experience with such a tour, and might I be happier not going and spending the time in Salzburg?
Steve <email>
Washington USA Mon 04/03/2006

Traveling with no where to stay
Will, in Germany, the best way to find hotels is to look for the website of the town, often www.[town name].de. They will usually have a list of accommodations under "tourismus", "unterkunft", "übernachten", or "hotels".
CO USA Mon 04/03/2006

Dave, you will have to go through passport control in Paris, but if your luggage is checked through to Nice, that is where you will pick it up and that is where you will go through customs.
<email>
CO USA Mon 04/03/2006

WEATHER IN NAPLES
AGV: weather in Naples in November will range from warm to comfortable.

Might have some light rain in the afternoon, but not enough to hamper sight seeing.
USA Mon 04/03/2006

EURAIL SELECT DRIVE PASS
Alexandra: Based on my experience in 20 years of travel in Europe, your assumption is correct. Doesnt sound like the drive pass is a good deal. I always book my cars and trains separately.
DALLAS, TX USA Mon 04/03/2006

TRAVELING WITH NO PLACE TO STAY
Will: After you chose the towns you want to visit do a google.com search using the name of the town PLUS ” hotel”. You will find lots of them.
R. L. C.
CHICAGO, USA Mon 04/03/2006

Looking for info on going to Europe by sea
Troy, it is not easy and round trip probably is impossible. Most cruise ships have repositioning cruises when they move their ships from winter cruising in the Caribbean to European summer cruises. (And the reverse in the Fall) These cruises are very reasonable if not down right cheap when you consider everything that is included. At least you would only fly on one leg unless you waited until the ship returned.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Mon 04/03/2006

PARIS AIRPORT CUSTOMS
Dave: Normally you have to go through customs and imigration at the airport where you enter a country. That would be CDG.
USA Mon 04/03/2006

Paris airport connections
David -- in Paris
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Mon 04/03/2006

Kimberly...Normandy
You can do Normandy without a car (I'm the one who wrote about renting a car in Caen) and, like someone else suggested, do a guided tour of the area. I would definitely do that rather than not go at all. They even have roundtrip tours from Paris. Mont-Saint-Michel is about 2 hrs from Bayeux, so if your time is limited, it may not be feasible. I'm sorry, I don't know about hostels.
USA Mon 04/03/2006

St.Goar/Bacharach overnight accomodations
Cathi, www.st-goar.de and www.bacharach.de. These are the websites for the towns, and they have a good list of accommodations. You may have to wade through a little bit of German, but "hotel" is, you guessed it, "hotel".
<email>
USA Mon 04/03/2006

Finalizing the itinerary
We're trying to nail down our itinerary so we can start booking hotels, car/train etc.

Right now it looks like this: Getting into Cologne 8am on Tuesday, July 18 and spend that day, overnight and the next day in the castle-Rhine area. We'll probably overnight in Bacharach, and we are open to any way of seeing castles, cruise, train, bikes--we want to tour both Reinfels and Marksburg. After however many castles we can pack into a second day, the 19th, we'll head to Rothenburg for the night (no matter what time we get there because we have 2 nights planned here). We'll leave Rothenburg likely the morning of the 21st and drive the rest of the Romantic Road and end up around Fussen as base town for castles including Ruette, Austria and Reifenstein in Italy over the next 3 days. Once we finish Reifenstein on the 24th we'll meander into Munich where we'll drop off our car.

Main question for this part of the itinerary is when would you pick up the car? Wait till finished with the Rhine, or get it @ Hahn airport and castle hop on the second Rhine day by car?

Well spend 2 nights in Munich and then head up to Prague on the 26th (the only set-in-stone part of the trip) We leave out of Prague again the morning of August 1 and figure we'll train directly to Budapest for 2 days/1 night there and then night train (or something) out to Vienna. We're figuring August 3rd and 4th in Vienna, the 5th for Schonbrunn Palace and Mauthasen concentration camp, and end up for the night in Salzburg. See Hallstat on the 6th as a daytrip from Salzburg and see Salzburg itself on the 7th, and that evening take some transport to Cologne for our flight out the morning of the 8th.

Main question for the second part of the trip is what manner of travel would you use? Seems like Prague-Budapest should be train, Budapest-Vienna could be boat down Danube or train, Vienna-Salzburg could be car but we'd only need it for 3 days, and then how do we do Salzburg-Cologne? Another train there makes sense, but I don't know what on earth kind of rail ticket that would involve because I know nothing at all about rail tickets and options other than some are ride and drive.

Suggestions anyone?? PLEASE??
Courtney <email>
TN USA Mon 04/03/2006

Paris airport connections
I'm flying on Air France nonstop from Detroit to CDG, with an Air France connection two hours later to Nice. Do I need to go through customs and immigration in Paris, or does that happen in Nice? I'm trying to plan ahead to ensure making my connection. Thank you.
Dave
Detroit, MI USA Mon 04/03/2006

Looking for info on going to Europe by sea
I know many don't like to fly, and you can include me in this categorie. I'll get on a plane, but does anybody know of a way to get to Europe from North America by boat, besides expensive cruises? I know this is a 16th century question, but it seems like it might be fun and I'm always for staying in close contact with the earth.
Troy
Battle Creek, MI USA Mon 04/03/2006

Traveling with 10 people with no where to stay
I am Traveling with a group of 10 of my best friends for 12 days through western Europe. It is becoming difficult for us to find Hostels and Hotels etc. Does anyone have any ideas or suggestion. I am 27 and the rest of them are 25-26 years old. ALso it's a good mix of sexes. Thank you.
Will <email>
Orlando, Fl USA Mon 04/03/2006

St.Goar/Bacharach overnight accomodations
We are two couples looking for a nice, reasonably priced small hotel or pension/guesthouse in the St.Goar/Bacharach area in Germany June 2-4 of this year.Unfortunately, Pension Lettie is full. And, I'm wondering about the weather in southern Germany/Austria 5/24-6/4...any need for shorts?
Cathi <email>
Port Gibson, MS USA Mon 04/03/2006

Luxembourg
I enjoyed Luxembourg as a day trip from Germany. I lived near Trier and would make the trip for any visitors that came over from the US. The American cemetary there is worth a visit.
Cathy
USA Mon 04/03/2006

Kimberly-- Mont St Michel
http://www.normandy-tourism.org/gb/02ville/M/MtStMichel.html
USA Mon 04/03/2006

Further questions on Normandy
Thanks for the people who responded about Normandy. Is it really only feasible with a car? We are both 20, so it really isn't an option, unless I am mistaken? Is there a hostel in the area? We want to be in the area or rather see the area with the island area with a castle I believe on it, or large palace thing? I just saw the Rick Steves video on it a few days ago, excuse my ignorance on the names!! Thanks.
Kimberly <email>
Seattle, WA USA Mon 04/03/2006

Rome to Siena, for John
I would agree with the train and a little one "on board"- however, we took that route last summer and I have a caveat. You need to transfer at Chiusi (sp?)for a local train that goes on to Siena. The Rome to Chiusi "leg" was on time and fine- beautiful, too! Upon arrival at the (very small) transfer station we discovered that our local train to Siena was cancelled and the next one would not be for FOUR hours- maybe! That is where you can get a bus (the stop is right there in front of the station) for the rest of the way if you have to. So just be prepared with a lot of drinks and snacks (there is nothing at the station) if your train is delayed. Hopefully not!!!
USA Mon 04/03/2006

Bus - Heathrow to Brighton
Yes, there is both direct service (2 hours) and service via Gatwick (2 1/2 hours). Cost is 20.00 GBP. See www.nationalexpress.com for timetables and fares.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 04/03/2006

Booking airfare - now or later?
Thanks for all the advice re: airfare and whether to book now or wait for the prices to drop. While waiting for advice over the past few days, the prices have already gone up!!! I will take everyone's advice and book now! Thanks again!
Kelly
Philadelphia, PA USA Mon 04/03/2006

Buses
I know I can take a bus from LHR to Bath, but does anyone know if there is a bus from LHR to Brighton??
Laurel <email>
Kirkland, WA USA Mon 04/03/2006

Normandy
We've been to Normandy many times, and we love it there. Bayeux is the best base, as others have said. There is a wonderful hotel there, Hotel D'Argouges, which is in RS book. I highly recommend it. We take a train to Caen, then rent a car from the car rental agency right outside the train station (I'm sorry, I can't remember which one) and drive to Bayeux (very easy). We took a train to Bayeux last time, and rented a car there, but it was a huge hassle because the can rental place is very far from the station and we had to take a taxi to get there and return. We have done the area by car and by the guided tour with Battlebus. We did not like the guided tour at all and we think it is much better and far more enjoyable to drive ourselves around to the sights. Rick tells you everything you need to know in his France guidebook. It is very easy driving and beautiful country. The people in Normandy are very warm and friendly. Many people say the museum in Caen is the best, but we really liked the museum in Bayeux re: D-Day.
USA Mon 04/03/2006

Rail Pass Order Problem
Martha, I checked the site and I can see there is a problem ordering the railpass you need. I would send a message to rail@ricksteves.com and let them know. They are very good about responding.
Sally
CA USA Mon 04/03/2006

Naples Weather in November
I have never been to Naples but looking on the weather websites it looks like the high temperature (F/C) is 63/17 and the lows are 46/8 in Novemember. Precipitation is 6.38 inches and average percent sunshite is 18.
Sally
CA USA Mon 04/03/2006

Normandy
Kimberly - I agree with Rich and suggest you use Bayeux as a base for 1 night. It sounds like you are traveling by train. You can stay in bayeux and take one of the tours through Normandy.

We took the Battle Bus tour which picks you up at the Hotel Churchill in Bayeux. The tour is $75 and runs from 8AM to 6PM. It is well worth it since you will visit many sites.Only 8 people in the van. Book early since it fills up fast.

Next day, you can see the Bayeux tapestry. Enjoy.
Bill <email>
NY USA Mon 04/03/2006

Rome to Siena
If you go to the Trenitalia website you will find that there are nearly hourly trains. It takes about 3 hours and the fare is E20.6. Seems to me a much better alternative than the bus, especially with a child along
Jeff
USA Mon 04/03/2006

Insurance
I agree with Martin you don't need trip interruption insurance unless you've prepaid a lot of your trip, or think it's likely someone will get sick. BUT your medical insurance will almost certainly not cover medical evacuation in case of an emergency. I strongly recommend getting this, having needed it on my last trip (I used tenweb.com).
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Mon 04/03/2006

Luxembourg
Disgree there is nothing to see in Luxembourg. Several castles, very scenic capital city with good museum. Also a good place to hike and eat. For my trip report on Lux, see www.wilhelmswords.com/faq
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Mon 04/03/2006

Eurail Select Drive Pass
We need 4 days of train travel and 7 days car in France/Italy this summer. One the Rail Europe website, a Select Drive Pass comes out to about $1700 with a compact 4 door with ac. BUT if I book it all separately it comes out to about $1200!! Am I missing something or is the Select Drive Pass not a good deal?
Alexandra Martella <email>
Longmont, CO USA Mon 04/03/2006

Naples
Has anyone been to Naples Italy in early November? What was the weather like at that time of year? Thanks.
AGV
USA Mon 04/03/2006

Extra Railpass Day
How come I'm having trouble ordering an extra railpass day on Rick Steve's website? It won't let me select an extra day on the German or Austria Flexipass. It says the "maximum" number is zero. Huh?
Marsha
St. Paul, MN USA Mon 04/03/2006

Travel between Rome and Siena
What is the best/safest way for my wife, four-year-old daughter, and I (plus luggage) to travel from Rome to Siena? I've heard that there's a bus that travels directly between the two cities, but I don't know where to go on the web to reserve it.
John
Raleigh, NC USA Mon 04/03/2006

BRUSSELS
Please don't confuse the "Grande-Place" and the "Royal Palace" in Brussels.Suggest you do a Google search for each and appreciate the difference.
UK Mon 04/03/2006

Travel Insurance
Steph: Travel insurance is a good idea if you have prepaid a good portion of your trip and you think there is a chance that you would have to cancel due to health reasosns (including health of family members who may not be traveling with you.) Some insurance also covers delays and missed connections. Insurance also covers medical evacuation if needed. If you haven't prepaid very much of your trip, then it probably is not needed.
Martin
Charlotte, NC USA Mon 04/03/2006

Normandy
Normandy is a region, rather than a town/city, so to find information on rail stations, you might want to search for some of the bigger towns (such as Caen and Cherbourg). If you are interested in the D-Day landing beaches, most of the towns and villages along the Normandy coastline were involved in one way or another, and have their own memorials etc.

This site seems to give good information on the D-Day related attractions. http://www.normandie44lamemoire.com/version%20anglaise/index%20us.html

Bayeux on the other hand has the famous Bayeux tapestry (a mediaeval 'comic strip' detailing the Norman invasion of England in 1066), and is a nice town (from what I remember).

This is a good general tourist information site: http://www.calvados-tourisme.com/index_gb.asp
Rich <email>
Canterbury, Kent UK Mon 04/03/2006

The Hamilton House Apratments in London
Hello. I've looked through the 2006 Steves' guide to London for info on a short lease service apartment and came across a mention in the listing for The Winchester Hotel that they also lease apartments. Apparently, this is through their sister hotel, The Hamilton House Apartments on Warwick near Victoria Station? Has anybody stayed there or does anyone know of a site or organisation that reveiws such places? Thanks.
Tim
OH USA Mon 04/03/2006

Normandy?
First off, thanks for everyones help on the London-Paris transport issue!

My question is about Normandy. I am debating going there but I am having trouble finding info on it. What is a good site? Do they have hostels? Is there a train station there, whats it called? Is this a day trip or maybe spend the night there, we would be heading to Brussels after, I'm not sure how long the train ride would be. Any/all info on Normandy is appreciated even stuff I did not mention! Thanks!
Kimberly <email>
Seattle, WA USA Mon 04/03/2006

London to Paris
On BMIBaby, $57 is the best you can do; most fares are (much) more. Even at that, adding transportation to and from airports by Metro it will be $70. Downtown to downtown takes about 5 hours.

By Eurostar, it takes less than 3 hours and can be as low as $90.

This is why God gave us EuroStar.
CO USA Sun 04/02/2006

Long Overnight Trains?
Jason, there is an overnight train, EN 286, from Rome Tiburtina station (21:55) to Munich Hbf(8:30). You should be able to find it on the Trenitalia Website. With adavance purchase, a bed in a double is as low as €99.

If you have trouble finding it, email me.
<email>
USA Sun 04/02/2006

San Sebastian Hotels
I found a great accommodation site - Inn26.com, which I used to book most of our European accommodation. It lists all forms of accommodation from Pensions, B & B's, Hostels, Hotels, Apartments etc. Can highly recommend it.
Judy
Adelaide, SA Australia Sun 04/02/2006

London to Paris
BMI (web site: flyBmi.com) currently have one way flights from Heathrow to Paris for $US57.00 (this includes all taxes and charges)
Judy
Adelaide, SA Australia Sun 04/02/2006

San Sebastian hotels
Can anyone recommend some hotels in San Sebastian, Spain? For 4 people, we'd like to keep it under $200USD/night. I notice most hotels have maximums of 3 people in a room, so this would probably entail 2 rooms. I'm finding it a bit difficult searching for vacancies. Thanks in advance!
AL
Palo Alto, CA USA Sun 04/02/2006

Paris to Venice train
Jason, Paris to Venice is a good over night train. They even serve you champagne!! It was a fun trip.
USA Sun 04/02/2006

Long Overnight Trains?
I've got a limited amount of time and a lot of distance I'd "like" to travel. As such, I'd like to take advantage of long train trips overnight both to perhaps save money on lodging and make the most of my time. But most of the "long-haul" trips now seem to be done by high-speed trains, or multi-leg trips - i.e., Paris to Marseille is only 3.5 hours. Rome to Munich is 11 hours, but requires changing trains. Can anyone recommed any direct, long trips that leave one evening and arrive the next morning that I may want to take advantage of? Thanks!
Jason <email>
Boulder, CO USA Sun 04/02/2006

TRAVEL TO UK
Mary; try farefox.com for discount fares. Their web page is down today , but may be up tomorrow. Read the section of this page called “Flying to Europe” for lots of reports on low air fares from other research.
MANNY
NYC, USA Sun 04/02/2006

HOSTEL BOOKING SITES
Kimberly; I always stay in hostels. I search for the hostel by name and use their web page to reserve a room. Some will not respond to emails though. I don’t know of any you cant trust.

Always ask the manager to confirm your reservations by email. And carry a copy of his letter with you.
Zouyse
TULSA, USA Sun 04/02/2006

LONDON IN 24 HOURS
Joan: You can do all that in 24 hours, but you will have to go at a trot. And when you finish you will be ready to hit the sack for sure. Go for it!
JANIE W
CHICAGO, IL USA Sun 04/02/2006

BRUSSELS HOW MUCH TIME
DB: Brussels is a must only if you have extra time to take. The Grand Palace is the only sight I would return for. You can buy chocolate any place.
USA Sun 04/02/2006

LUXEMBOURG RECOMMENDATIONS
DB: the reason Luxembourg is not known as a popular destination is because there is nothing there to see. Its only claim to fame is its small size.

Don’t waist your time. Read the comments by other travelers below and in the archives. I cant recommend any place to stay; I stayed in the hostel.

If you want your passport stamped to proove you have been there it will cost you a fee.
USA Sun 04/02/2006

DAY TRIPS
Andrew: The best and least time consuming way to reach those places will be by auto. It will be difficult to visit those towns on day trips from Rome, Florence or La Spezia. Transportation out of La Spezia is very limited.
K.C.A.
WACO, TX USA Sun 04/02/2006

DAY TRIPS
Renee:There several ways to reach those towns. Drivng a car would be my choice, but expensive. Trains are next choice, but time consuming. And sometimes calling for many changes.

It is impractical to plan day trips from those towns. I would buy a good map and study the distances for those trips. Let that be your guide to planning your itinerary.

Flying into Naples would be best but there are very few discount air lines serving Italy. You would have to do a google.com search to find what is available.
CASPER, WY USA Sun 04/02/2006

TRAVEL INSURANCE?
I'm planning my first trip to Europe and am trying to make sure I've covered everything. How important is travel insurance and how come every airline offers it as if I need to buy it from them to cover my airline tickets. Is this true. If something happens and I can't make the flight do I have to have coverage from that particular airline to be taken care of for losses? Who do I need to get travel insurance from (or do I even need to)? I have medical coverage that includes international but I'm concerned with if something unforseen happens and I can't make the trip (I sure hope not) or baggage loss or something like that. Any pointers or tips? Thanks
Steph <email>
Tyler, TX USA Sun 04/02/2006

Austria
My husband and I are going to be in Saltzburg and Vienna in early June. Can anyone recommend a B&B or inexpenseive local hotel to stay in?
Shelly <email>
Sacramento, CA USA Sun 04/02/2006

World Cup - 24 swf solo trip
Hello - I am a 24 single female. I will be traveling to Germany solo this summer to cheer on Mexico at the World Cup. I'm also planning on traveling to Prague and Amsterdam between matches. While I'm not particuarly aprehensive about the trip, I would like to hear any tips anybody would have for me. Thank you and happy travels!
Marcela Gutierrez <email>
San Diego, CA USA Sun 04/02/2006

Andrew-day trips in Italy
Lucca is easily reached by train from Florence. For Orvieto(a walled city),I recom renting a car to get to this and Civita a car is necessary as a day trip for Orvieto. While you have your car there are other wonderful villages to visit while in Tuscany. All this however takes some planning as car parking (day or overnight) can be difficult in towns like Orvieto.Read Ricks books carefully, it is all in there as these are the guidebooks I follow for all my routing/renting/lodging in Europe and Italy.
JS
USA Sun 04/02/2006

Luxembourg Hotel
DB, there are lots of places in Luxembourg to stay, not only in Lux City but in the small towns throughout the country. Since it is so small, you may be there and gone before you know it. I always check www.tripadvisor.com for recommendations from fellow travelers. They seem to always be right on the mark. Years ago I followed a tip in Frommers and stayed in a hotel in Lux City. It was by far the worst place I have ever stayed. Bad beds, gloomy room with huge tub, sink but toilet down the hall. We made reservations with a deposit or we would not have stayed there. If you made your room plans early in the day, I doubt you will have any trouble. Just be prepared in Luxembourg, it is very expensive.
Pat
MA USA Sun 04/02/2006

For lucky women travelers...
although this, sadly, won't be a "Europe summer" for me, I thought to share a great recent find for those of you fortunate enough to be planning to go somewhere! www.sahalie.com created a skirt called "the strider". Available in brown or black jersey- weight fabric, it has an elastic waist, hidden passport and/or credit card sized pocket and a longish (almost invisible) zipper along one of the side seams. When you unzip it, your leg is exposed to just above the knee for really comfortable walking- I actually hiked in it recently, and it was wonderful. But, when it is time to go into a cathedral or dressier restaurant, down goes the zipper! One caveat- at least for their line of women's clothing- is that it runs very small. I would order a size up from what you usually do- I'm an "xs" usually and the "s" was definitely needed. They also carry men's things and quite a few are quick drying and travel-related. I don't work for the company! It's just nice when you find clothes that work really well for travel and thought I'd share.
Karen
USA Sun 04/02/2006

ATM/Debit Cards
ATM cards are fine, but debit cards may not work for purchases because they need to be chip & pin. You can still sign for credit card purchases in most places (all places in the UK), but other posts on this site indicate that people have had problems with debit cards.

Kate
Kate
Scotland Sun 04/02/2006

think before you decide to rent
I just got off the phone with my husband who is in England on business. He decided to rent a car because public transportation to the small town where they were staying was going to be difficult. Anyway, he said that they nearly got into a car accident. When turning off from a side street, he looked the wrong way, thought the coast was clear and proceeded onto the road. Anway, they were nearly hit. It's easy to do, especially if you are jet lagged.

When I had my fender bender in Italy last summer, it was a matter of the entrance into the Italian autostrada being at a sharper angle than the entrance onto our interstates, combined with my rental car not having the acceleration power that I was used to, plus a big semi-truck heading my way. The car insurance connected with my VISA card paid everything--except the $500 that I was charged for the "devaluation of the car." Somebody suggested that I shouldn't have to pay that; however, I wasn't going to hire a lawyer to fight the Sixt company lawyers over $500--and they were threatening me with legal action if I didn't pay.

Of course, I will rent a car again; but only when I'm going to an area not well-served by public transportation.
USA Sun 04/02/2006

Re: Carol, Greek Tour
I would get more info as to the timetable. Having been all of those places, in four days, most of your time will be spent travelling...not the way to do Greece. If it were my call, I would do Mykonos and not the others, or do the Peloponnese and not the Islands. For a family, I would lean towards the Peloponnese, stay in Nafplio...maybe hit Olympia. For Nafplio, you could even arrange yourself and do cheaply.
Paul <email>
IA USA Sun 04/02/2006

Re: Denise, Euro
Just to add to the responses, if your concern is arriving and worst case not being able to use an ATM to get cash (remote but possible) then your options can be: Have a few travellers checks to convert to cash; use a credit card for cash advance, have US currency to convert; get Euros here. Problem is, all will involve fees and be more expensive than the ATM. I usually take my ATM and two different credit cards, using only those. Still I will take a few travellers checks and some cash, just in case. Having been over a few times, I also have left over Euros from the previous trip (maybe less than 50) that may also come in handy. Living in Iowa as well, you would need to find a bank in a larger city to find Euros, or use an online service.
Paul <email>
IA USA Sun 04/02/2006

Brussels
DB - IMO, your plan sounds great and you're not dissing Brussels. I know some people have loved it, but we did the same thing you're planning and found it plenty adequate!
Kristin
USA Sun 04/02/2006

Re: ATM/Debit card
The terms are interchangeble for the most part, I would suggest that your card have a Visa/MC logo and list networks on the back (Shazam, Cirrus, etc.) then you will be fine.
Paul <email>
IA USA Sun 04/02/2006

Re: Tuscany to Positano
I would opt for dropping the rental car in Tuscany, then train and bus to Positano. Just think that the Amalfi coast is not a real great place for a rental car. Roads are challenging and public transport is efficient and cheap. Most likely route would be to either Naples or Salerno, then on to the coast. Naples handier for Sorrento, Salerno handier for Amalfi or Positano
Paul <email>
IA USA Sun 04/02/2006

Re: Day Trips in Italy
Actually, Trenitalia has schedules available for more than 2 month in advance. You just can't get fares or purchase tickets online more than two months out.

When using the Trenitalia site, make sure you note that they have both a national and an international query page. If you ask for an international connection on the national page, you'll still get schedules, but you won't get fares (just a NO) no matter how soon the trip is.
<email>
USA Sun 04/02/2006

ATM Debt Card
Jeff, credit cards only work in ATM machines if you have a PIN with the card; most people don't. So, if you think you might want to use the credit card for a cash advance from an ATM, make sure you ask your bank for a PIN. Might also be a good idea to overpay so that you have a positive balance so you won't pay interest right away.
CO USA Sun 04/02/2006

Re: ATM/Debit card?
An ATM card will allow you to only withdraw cash from your bank account at an ATM. A debit card can be used to withdraw cash at an ATM and make purchases at stores. BTW, make sure that whatever you take is linked to a checking account. Cards that are linked to only a savings account will not work in Europe.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Sun 04/02/2006

Re: Day Trips in Italy
Andrew - You can check train schedules at www.trenitalia.it. Click on English in the upper right. FYI, they have schedules only 2 months in advance. But at least you can get a good idea of availablity and times.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Sun 04/02/2006

ATM Debt Card
ATM (Automatic teller machine) also accepts credit cards.
Jeff
Middlesex, NJ USA Sun 04/02/2006

Best way to get to Positano from Tuscany
We are going to Italy in Sept 06. From Tuscany we are heading to the Amalfi Coast (probably Positano). We are not sure if we should keep our rental car or take the train or even fly into Naples and then take a train or bus? Any suggestions?
Renee <email>
Canada Sun 04/02/2006

Day Trips
We are traveling to Italy in the summer. We are planning on staying in Milan, CT, Rome, Florence, and Venice. Reading Rick's books has got me interested in visiting Lucca, Orvieto, and Civita. What's the best way to reach these places? Is it possible to visit these spots on day trips from Rome, Florence or LaSpezia by taking a bus or train?
Andrew
USA Sun 04/02/2006

ATM/Debit card?
I was just reading the postings on the "money" part of the wall and it said just be sure your card was an ATM card and not a debit card. Arent't they the same? Please educate me on this. Thanks
USA Sun 04/02/2006

Luxemburg
DB - I loved http://www.hotel-bisdorff.lu - wonderful food, quiet location near castles.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Sun 04/02/2006

For Denise: Changing Money in Europe
Rick has a helpful article on changing money in Europe in the Travel Tips section on this Web site. Here is the URL: www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/moneytip.htm.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 04/02/2006

ATMs in Europe
Denise, Don't worry about the availability of ATMs in Europe for accessing cash. I have taken groups of students to Europe for years with only one problem: make sure that your financial institution's pin word will work overseas. Just ask them. I have only had difficulty if it is linked to a savings account. Having credit card back up is essential.
Carol
Menlo Park, USA Sun 04/02/2006

24 Hours in London
It doesn't sound crazy to me. Since you won't leave until noon, you can stay somewhere in central London and still get to the airport without much fuss in the morning.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 04/02/2006

Teen Alone in Madrid
Kanoe-Madrid is like any other big city anywhere. I would not recommend that a teenager stay by herself in this city or others.
USA Sun 04/02/2006

ATM/Cash debate again
Denise-no,don't take all cash for a trip. Take 2 different types of bankcards, i.e. an AmX and a Visa debit/ATM or two Visa/ATM cards from two different banks (this is not as hard as it sounds-we opened a 2nd checking account weeks before going to India to avoid fees). You may end up paying a few dollars on fees once you are there but it is much better than the fee/exchange rate you would get by buying Euros in the States. This topic is endlessly debated - has anyone really ended up in Europe without the ability to get cash at all?
USA Sun 04/02/2006

London-Paris
Here are a couple more factors in the question of how to get from London to Paris. While I don't relish the thought of a 8-10 hour bus ride, if I were going to do it I would do it overnight to save the cost of a hotel and to have more daylight hours for sightseeing. I've taken the Eurostar and it is certainly the most relaxing way to go. If you decide to fly, your best choice is BMI because they fly from Heathrow to CDG and tickets can be as low as 5.00 GBP (plus taxes).
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 04/02/2006

euros
My family and I will be going to Europe in may...we are worried about the money as i have heard stories about tha atm's not working, pick pocketers, ect. thought we would buy euros in the states to start off with..does this sound reasonable and how much is enough? thanks, denise
Denise
Iowa USA Sun 04/02/2006

london- paris
Just a comment for the students wanting to go to paris, the bus is long and expensive and for a bit more you can take the train. I don't think you want to spend more than 8 hours on a bus!! As Rick says in his book sometimes it's just worth it to pay a little more and get there quicker! The best website for advice on trains is seat61.com, it has anything you need to know and more that you never even knew you needed to know. I just checked out the eurostar.com website you can buy a student price ticket for 45 usd. to get this price though you have to be a little flexible, travel mid-week ect. An example is for Wed. may 3 if you leave just after 1pm, a non-refunable ticket is only 45us. Save your time take the train!

If you can't be flexable with your train time, book a flight through easy jet, they have great deals and lots of flights from london to paris everyday! The easyjet flight leaves from luton, it is a one hour bus ride, you can even book the $3 bus ticket through easyjet's web-site, just click on the to/from airport icon at the top

Good luck hope i helped
Cora <email>
Canada Sun 04/02/2006

Luxumbourg - recommendations?
We're planning a day in Luxumbourg, since it's right on the way between Belgium (where we'll be coming from) and the head of the Mosel Valley (where we're headed next) - plus, I enjoy obscure geographica. :)

I've seen/heard/read many positive reviews of Luxumbourg, despite (or maybe because of) the fact that it's not really well-known as a popular tourist destination. Rick doesn't mention Luxumbourg in his books (at least not that I've found). But they do have their castles, old walled towns, etc.

Anyone here have suggestions for a nice place to stay overnight in Luxumbourg? Thanks!
DB
Seattle, WA USA Sat 04/01/2006

Brussels - how much time?
I'm wondering how much time to dedicate to Brussels on our trip thru BeNeLux and Germany. Based on what I've seen/read/heard, the major attractions for us there would be: the main square with Grand Palace; Royal Museum of Fine Arts; and the Belgian Comic Strip Center. Of course, we'll dabble in some fine chocolate.

This looks to me like it could fit in less than a full day.

We're planning 2 days in Bruges just before blowing through Brussels, so I plan to drink lots of excellent Belgian beer and eat lots of fries and muscles there.

I'm thinking we might just make Brussels a long stop on the train (coming from Bruges, then headed for Luxumbourg).

Am I dissin' Brussels here, or is this enough time to sample the best that Brussels has to offer? Thanks.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Sat 04/01/2006

London in 24 Hrs.
In mid June we will have a layover in London for 24 hours (noon to noon). Never been, and thinking about touring around Buckingham Palace, Westminster Cath. in the afternoon, ride down Thames to Blackfriars area then Rick's old pubs around Holborn in the evening. Am I crazy to try this?
Joan <email>
Snohomish, WA USA Sat 04/01/2006

I would like to "second" Norm's warning to the students (or anyone else)considering RyanAir or other discount airlines because of hidden costs and distances if you want to get somewhere quickly- such as the Paris to London route. My college- age daughter has been studying in England this year and has had great luck using RyanAir to get to Dublin and Turin and even Athens- but it takes her several hours to get to Stanstead airport, each way, using various forms of public transport and you have to figure in fares for doing so that approach the cost of the airfare. Her most recent trip to Oslo turned into an expensive nightmare- needing to take a bus (that never came) from Oslo to the distant smaller airport, nearly missing the plane, and then train service disruptions at Stanstead meant she was put on a bus for FOUR hours out of London...etc! It ended up costing at least $100 US and almost 20 hours of traveling for that 39Euro ticket!
USA Sat 04/01/2006

London-Paris
Most inexpensive run....by Bus.....34 pounds London-Paris for 26-59 years...31 pounds, 13-25 years of age. See National Express at http://www.nationalexpress.com/ and click on Europe. Direct run, starting at &:30 am, takes 8 hours.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sat 04/01/2006

London-Paris
You can fly for even less than $99. But you have to get out to Luton or Stansted airports...add in the 20-30 dollars for that, plus the extra time involved....and the cost of geting into Paris from one of the airports....another 10-15 dollars....still cheaper to book an inexpensive return ticket on Eurostar and throw the return part away.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sat 04/01/2006

London-Paris
I am trying to find the absolute cheapest way from London-Paris, we are college students backpacking haha. I have seen fares for $40 some dollars, am I doing something wrong? Because you can fly for $99...? HELP!!
Kimberly Calkins <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 04/01/2006

London-Paris
I'm assuming you're booking through Eurostar.com. Try booking a return journey...you'll find each way will cost less than 30 pounds for a total price of 60 pounds ($100) then just throw the return portion away. One way fares are way more expensive. These cheap tickets can't be changed, so make sure of your travel plans. And book as early as you can....the cheap tickets go quickly
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sat 04/01/2006

LONDON TO PARIS
Hi. You can try a trip with Premium tours, they offer some trip [day or overnight] for about 300-500 us, depending on whether you take a first class train ride or not, or if you stay overnight. It includes guided tours, for different prices, depending on services requested. So you can take a day trip by Eurostar, go on a guided tour and return the same day for only a few hundred dollars, or spend a lot more and spend the night at a hotel too. Another choice would be to try an intercontinental flight from London to Paris for the weekend, or even for the day.
AUNDREA
CANADA Sat 04/01/2006

London-Paris
I am trying to get from London-Paris, what is the best option? I can only find the train for $300-$700?!? Help! Whats the best site?
Kimberly <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 04/01/2006

Madrid Safety
Hi, My 18yr old daughter is traveling to Madrid to meet her study abroad program. She wants to go early byherself and go to the Prado. I have been reading about Madrid and theft. Any comments on her safety being alone for a day or two in Madrid?
kANOE <email>
walla walla, wa USA Sat 04/01/2006

Airfare/hostel booking sites
I am currently booking a trip to europe and have gotten some great deals. I live in Vancouver, BC and got round-trip to London for only $750cnd, with taxes. If you can be flexible with dates and travel during the week, this can save a couple hundred dollars. I like expedia.com/.ca, it may take some time but try a bunch of different dates and see what you can get. If you find a good deal i suggest going directly to that airlines website, I did this and saved almost another $100, over and above expedia. Also it is cheaper to fly into a main airport in a big city such as london or amsterdam, and then get a cheaper flight through easy jet or ryan air to your next destination. It is amazing how cheap it is to fly throughout europe!!

For hostel websites, Hostelz.com is great it has reviews plus it gives you the ulr so you can book directly with the hostel, just click on the hostel that looks good and there is a direct link to that hostel, so you don't have to pay extra fees, by booking with the hostel site. Some hostels don't have their own sites, so i also like hostelworld.com, there is lots of info/reviews, but beware i heard they edit the reviews!! Hostelworld.com does charge a $2 booking fee, but if you find one you like, try looking for the hostel directly on yahoo.

Hope this helps!!
Cora <email>
Vancouver, Bc Canada Sat 04/01/2006

UK airfare
I'm on the west coast, too and I fear that's a pretty decent price for summer "high" season travel. You could also check Air Canada, which flies Seattle-London with only one stop...the CAD exchange rate might help a little- as would flying from Vancouver, BC, if you can.
Karen
USA Sat 04/01/2006

Hostel Booking Sites?
What is the best hostel booking site to use? Any that are not reputable or that any of you have had problems with? Thanks!
Kimberly <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 04/01/2006

travel to UK
We're headed to London then Ireland for 2-3 weeks this summer with a group of five (me, hubby, daughter 10, son 7 and grandma 69). Someone PLEASE tell me there's a way to get airfare for less than $950 per person from the west coast to London in July!
Mary <email>
Vancouver, WA USA Sat 04/01/2006

Handbag for travel
Best Bet, got to Wal-mart, buy one of their light weight synthetic canvas type (black) bags with an adjustable wide canvas strap. All you really need is one interior zip pocket, perhaps one on the outside. Several years ago, I bought a black one, about 4"wide X 12" X 12". It worked so well as I travelled in Europe that I went back to Walmart when I got home and bought another one. That one is now my "Europe" bag, the one I used on the first trip is still going strong as an every-day bag. Same with walking shoes. I found great, inexpensive black, light weight walking shoes at Target. Broke them in, found they were great as I trekked around castles and, upon return, bought another pair for the next trip. I get tired of trying to find something I had "last time" and have learned to buy twice and save for the future. P.S. Lots of little pockets in a purse are a pain in the neck. You have to keep fishing for whatever you are looking for.
Pat
MA USA Sat 04/01/2006

travel with pet
We will be in Rome with our Yorkshire Terrier. Any advice on how to see the museums, Vatican, etc. when travelling with a dog? Thanks!!
Nella <email>
SAN FRANCISCO, CA USA Sat 04/01/2006

Athens Greece Countryside Tour
Could anyone share their experience on a 4 day/3 night CHAT tour from Athens to Mycenae, Nafplion, Olympia, Delphi and Meteora? We are a family of 5 considering this excursion. Thank you.
Carol <email>
Menlo Park, CA USA Sat 04/01/2006

Thanks - Jet Lag and Melatonin Question
Thank you all for the many responses to my Jet Lag / Melatonin inquiry.

Special thanks for the referral to the Jet Lag postings that had been archived.

I feel I have a much better handle on the situation now.
Flounder Boy
Brandon, FL USA Sat 04/01/2006

Re: UFB Direct vs. NO FEE ATM
Sarah--If you have a Bank of America VISA debit card, there are NO fees for currency withdrawals if you use ATM's owned by Barclay's Bank, BNP Paribas, Deutsche Bank in Europe and they have a global no-fee gloabal link with Santander Bank in Latin America, Westpac in the Pacific and ScotiaBank in Canada. The exchange rates were great and they have ATM's throughout Europe.
Marshall <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sat 04/01/2006

Airfares
Just read in the paper today about United raising rates for business travel, as well as leisure. It's only going up...if you are looking to travel this summer, it's best you book a flight when you can get it. If you wait, hoping for a "sale" you are only going to be disappointed....
USA Sat 04/01/2006

Airfares
These are two sites I found helpful when checking out airfares: airfarewatchdog.com faremax.com

We got a three day special Virgin ran in February by checking those sites each day. For Sept. travel I would wait a little bit longer. I was nervous about our June flights- but my patience was rewarded.
L.
Chicago, IL USA Sat 04/01/2006

Italy with 16 month old
Italy with 16 month old: The airline will let you check the stroller, it doesn't count as a bag. We have been able to roll it right up to the plane and then they check it for you. As far as the carrier, I would call the airline and see if you can check it. We have checked two carseats- they provided a big bag to hold it.
L.
Chicago, IL USA Sat 04/01/2006

Unrest in France
For those interested in Rick's take on the demonstrations in France, see http://ricksteves.com/news/travelnews/0603/paris_unrest.htm
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Sat 04/01/2006

ETBD Tours/Web master
Are there any planned or anticipated changes to the Rick Steves France tours especially the week in Paris one? I'm looking into taking either Paris or London..
Gloria
Ripon Wisconsin, USA Sat 04/01/2006

Pastry Class for David
You are not likely to get much of a pastry education in three weeks. For the most part culinary schools in Paris, or France in general, require you to commit for a specified time, months and years, not weeks, and often require that you have demonstrated enough resolve, such as an apprenticeship in a boulangerie or a patisserie, to see the program through even for the lowest of culinary positions. They're thinking career training. Perhaps, you might like a general cooking class. Some exist. One is in Louviers a small town located about an hour's drive from Paris toward Rouen. This one is run by an American ex-pat and her husband. She tells her charming story in "On Rue Tatin" She has/had a web site. Perhaps a Google search will give you some more names. Classes in Louviers run a short week mainly in tourist season at $2000 or so. You get to eat the food.
USA Sat 04/01/2006