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.