Graffiti Wall: Travelers' Helpline

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Travelers' Helpline: June 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.

3 things I wish I had known...
It was the Rick Steves series of PBS programs that convinced me to travel and through them I learned of his country and city books, From them, I learned how to avoid falling into the big ditch that swallows unprepared travelers. That is the difference between being lost and being on an adventure. So, there are not three things that I wish I had known. Not having the books would have been the only thing to rue.
hg
USA Fri 06/30/2006

GPS System
We just returned from a 2.5 week trip starting in Sweden and ending in Belgium. Our Saab has a GPS system that we used everyday- for finding gas stations to getting to the laundry service. The system is priceless! It is very simple to use- everything is pretty much self-explanatory- and ours could not be reprogrammed while the car was in motion- so don't worry about being distracted while driving. It saved us hours of time and hours of arguments. Don't leave home without one!
LJ
Chicago, USA Fri 06/30/2006

Gotthard Tunnel
We just got back from our trip. The exit to Gotthard was still closed on June 20th. We were wondering why you couldn't seem to get to that town.
Chicago, IL USA Fri 06/30/2006

Top 3 things...
Truly a great question! 1) People have often said to me that it is great that I've gotten to go to Europe a few times while I'm younger (in my 20s with no kids) because who knows when I'll make it back. That's a line of bull! If you love to travel, plan it into your life and go as often as you can. Having said that, don't try to cram everything into 1 trip - you will return! 2) Don't pack too much, especially if you will be traveling via train. There is nothing worse than lugging heavy rolling suitcases on and off the trains. 3) If you are traveling with someone (even a spouse), it is fine and sometimes necessary to split up for a few hours or a day. You will have a chance to do exactly what you want to do, and when you reconvene, you will have lots to talk about! Happy Travels!
Chicago, USA Fri 06/30/2006

My Top Three Europe Things!
What a great question! It really made me think. Thing #1) not to try to do too much...you think "I'm here, I'm in EUROPE, I have to see everything I've ever and always wanted to see. The first two times I went it felt rushed, all the time. The best moments tended to be serendipitous and unexpected and not always related to the top attraction somewhere. Thing #2) Stay as long as you can possibly afford to. If you travel a la RS the plane tickets over there are going to be the biggest expense and you really do "lose" a day on each end for the flights. Lastly, learn enough of the language in the country(ies) where you'll be visiting to be able to greet bus or taxi or shopkeepers or hoteliers as well as handle yourself in a restaurant or take away stall. If you do that, I have noticed that 1) people everywhere appreciate your efforts and you will be treated better because you have made them and 2) sometimes, the person with whom you are speaking would rather speak English than deal with your clumsy grammar and you're now "off the hook". Have a wonderful trip!
Karen
USA Fri 06/30/2006

Traveling to Europe
The top thing I wish I had know was how amazing it is and I wish I had started traveling there sooner! If you are thinking of going, GO! Don't wait for someone to go with, for the dollar to be stronger, for the perfect time, etc, etc, just GO! :)
Erika
Edmonds, USA Fri 06/30/2006

I was wondering if someone could post the top three things they wish they had known before traveling Europe. I am hoping to glean all the experience of others that I can. Thanks!
Amanda
Las Vegas, USA Fri 06/30/2006

Bringing medications
Laws require that medication be in their oringal container with the original label. In my ten years of traveling into Europe I have never once been stopped by European customs officials. The problem arises when arrive back in the USA. US Customs is much more rigorous. I have been hastled twice at Newark Airport for not haveing my asthma Inhaler and hayfever nose spray in their original boxes. If your bringing just enough medication to cover your needs when your in Europe, you could probably get away with not having the original containers. But if your going to have any left over meds, its best to comply with the law.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Fri 06/30/2006

Packing Medications
Some pharmacies will package your prescriptions in a "bubble" punch out card, with all the pills for each time of each day in a seperate bubble and the lables on the back. This might be helpful of those needing to pack meds. Ask your pharamacist!
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA Fri 06/30/2006

Courtney and Shoes
So many thoughts on shoes. Take your most comfortable athletic/walking shoes (not new). No one looks at your feet. Yes, you can white. Wear socks. Regarding sandals: sometimes it is difficult to walk on cobblestones with sandals especially ones with no back strap. I kept walking out of Birkies. I did use my Birkies for walking to bathrooms down the hall from the hotel room. I took a pair of black Aerosoles flats for a dressier look . . . wore them one time. Not needed.
Audrey
Keizer, OR USA Fri 06/30/2006

Medications
Take your prescription medication in the original bottles w/the Rx label. Also take copies of your Rx labels & place them separately in case you lose your prescriptions and need to replace a prescription. I took my vitamins and non prescription drugs in ziplock bags and/or pill boxes. Keep your medications in your backpack or daypack.
Audrey <email>
Keizer, OR USA Fri 06/30/2006

Bringing medications
I usually put all of my pills in a plastic pill organizer, but lately I'm hearing people say that you need to have them all in their original container. Then there's the thing with Rush Limbaugh. Does anyone know the rules for overseas travels - both with over the counter and prescription drugs?
Joni <email>
Plymouth, MN USA Fri 06/30/2006

RE: Where to stay near Stuttgart?
Karen, a few years ago my wife and I flew out of Stuttgart and stayed the previous night in Herrenberg (www.herrenberg.de). It is a cute little town with fachwerk buildings around the square and ruins of the old town wall. There is an S-bahn connection from Herrenberg to the airport (35 min, €3,90). You can get all the schedules from the Stuttgart transit website (www.vvs.de, in English).

The Herrenberg website has a listing of accommodations. I think that is easier to find from the German language side. Click on "Touristik und Verkehr", then "Hotels und mehr".

We stayed at Pension Kirchgasse (www.pension-kirchgasse1.de). It is right on the town square, a few minutes from the Bahnhof. The owner, Karin Förster speaks English.

We stayed on a Sunday night. I also found accommodations at the airport for about the same price (a weekend special), but we decided to go with something more traditionally German.
<email>
USA Fri 06/30/2006

Re: Lodging in Greece
James - Check out the Sightseeing->Tips On Greece forum on the Graffiti Wall. There's quite a few comments and recommendations. One that caught my eye is titled "Athens-Mykonos/Delos-Naxos-Santorini", dated 10/27/2005. The poster recommends a Greece travel site (www.greektravel.com/) and a Greek travel agent, Fantasy Travel.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 06/30/2006

Where to stay near Stuttgart?
We will be flying out of Stuttgart after visiting Austria & Southern Bavaria. Has anyone stayed in a nice town outside of Stuttgart, preferably coming from the South where the airport is located? Or would you suggest actually staying in Stuttgart for the night? Would love lodging suggestions as well. Thanks!
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Fri 06/30/2006

Lodging in Greece & the Greek Islands
My wife and I are planning a trip to Greece and the Greek islands. Since Rick does not produce a book on Greece, does anyone out there have any suggestions on websites for B & Bs in Greece and the islands. We are looking for affordable clean lodging. Any ideas will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
James <email>
West Memphis, AR USA Fri 06/30/2006

Bus tours of Rome
Valerie - re: tours of Rome We discovered that a private tour with the 5 of our family was the same price or slightly less than if we had bought individual tickets on a bus tour. We booked with througheternity.com and were very impressed. They allowed us to choose the attractions to go to and were extremely knowledgable and tryly loved sharing with us. And we had no crowds to separate us from the guide, could adjust our times as we went along to spend longer or shorter at a specific place could always hear what was being said and have any and all questions answered. We highly recommend them! Marvin
Marvin <email>
Canal Fulton, OH USA Thu 06/29/2006

Research Train/Car & Then Decide
Sorry Lee, you missed my point again. People on this board are questioning other travelers, not professional travel agents. Everyone needs to realize that these opinions are often based on past personal experience and may not be comparable to today's experience.

Again, I'm thrilled for you that you were able to do all that you wanted to do at a price you found reasonable. Hopefully others will read these posts and plan just as carefully. "Driving Me Crazy" can easily research the price of a car for the few days they consider driving in the country they choose - it might not be Germany you know.

And by the way, the 4 tickets I purchased for train travel from Rome to Venice WAS more expensive than the car that I would have gotten for the four of us, but since we did not need a car at all in either city, I thought it would be a nuisance to go the "cheaper" route. This is what is meant by carefully researching your options.
Karen
USA Thu 06/29/2006

Slovenia and Croatia
Helene - I rented a car in Ljubljana and used it to explore Slovenia and Croatia a few years ago. Some parts of your itinerary would be difficult using public transportation, while other parts would be OK. There's frequent and inexpensive bus service from Ljubljana to Bled and you won't really need a car while you're there, but the caves would be tricky without a car. Plitvice is only serviced by bus, so it's nice to have a car for that leg of the trip. I rented from Budget and did a round trip into Croatia from Ljubljana. I made my reservation from the U.S., and would recommend doing so. Budget allowed travel into Croatia, but a car rented in Croatia wasn't permitted to travel into Slovenia. You might consider a one day rental in Ljubljana to visit the caves, then take the train to Zagreb and rent there for your Croatia travel. That may also be your best bet for a Split drop-off without a huge fee. As other posters have pointed out, the rules change constantly and you'll need to shop around to get the rental(s) you want at a reasonable price. With respect to roads and traffic, I found the roads to be in good repair and had no difficulty driving in Zagreb. There are several newer expressways, although two lane roads (e.g. from Karlovac to Plitvice) can be slow. A good road map is a must. Michelin has a good map, but the map Budget gave me was even better. One more thing, Budget required an international drivers license as a condition of rental. Be sure to ask, or just go ahead and get one at AAA to be safe. Hope this information helps with your planning.
Frank
Wilmington, DE USA Thu 06/29/2006

Italy train tickets
I HAVE TRAVELED WITHIN iTALY ON 6 different vacations - always used trains. Best time to buy train tickets is late in the evening before you want to go. Lines are short then. Also you can buy at ticket machines. Sometimes there are lines there but not as bad. You need to set aside at least half an hour at Roma Termini or Firenze SMN to buy tickets if you want to use a real person. (Not so much at other stations). You will learn a lot about buying tickets the first few times. IT IS NOT SCARY. I have always bought at the earliest the night before departure.
Linda Hagstrom
PA USA Thu 06/29/2006

Ryanair
I had a great experience on Ryanair last month. I wrote about it on the message board if you want more detailed info. Find Transportation on the Graffiti Wall and click on Travel Within Europe, dated 6-2-06.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Thu 06/29/2006

Re: Train Travel
To be accurate, I should have said there is ONE route for which you will need to take a private train. It's the Circumsuviana which runs from Naples to Sorrento. If you want some more information on what kinds of discount fares for travel within Italy are available by booking in advance at trenitalia.com, send me an e-mail.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 06/29/2006

suggestions for the cheapest cities to fly into the EU in Aug
Unfortunately, August is a high season travel month, and finding a good deal is going to be hard at this stage. But the UK, specifically London Hearthrow, is probably your best bet for cheapest overseas fares. That means transferring to Luton or Stansted for discount airline flights, unless you get a good deal through BMI airlines out of LHR (flybmi.com). Try some of the booking search engines to look for the best deal. You'll probably find the cheapest flights during the week rather than weekends, so use the search that allows a check a few days on either side of your planned dates. You'll probably also find better deals on some flights which make a stop somewhere along the line. The best rate I've found in a quick check (at www.airlineconsolidator.com ) is Air Canada via Toronto, at $950, all in. British Airways is about $1050 direct, Virgin Atlantic is about $1150 direct. Other search engines to try include www.cheapseats.com, www.airgorilla.com, www.sidestep.com, and www.bookingbuddy.com. Most of these use a big search engine that scans the airlines plus the other travel websites looking for the best deal. When looking for discount flights within Europe, check out www.whichbudget.com. Good luck!
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 06/29/2006

train travel
Tim, Thank you, I leave in 2weeks. I have been doing so much research my head is spinning.I do think point-to-point will be the way.Which are private vs not private trains?
USA Thu 06/29/2006

Re: Train Pass
First of all, if you decide to get a pass, buy it from home. Passes are only available in a few major European cities and they will cost more. Second, some of your routes are on private trains and wouldn't be covered by a railpass. Third, with a pass you're still subject to a reservation fee for trains that require reservations. Fourth, booking tickets online directly on a country's national rail site may give you some big discounts. For example, PREM'S tickets on sncf.com for Paris-Milan can be as little as 25E for 2nd class day trains and 35E for a six-bunk couchette or 55E for a four-bunk couchette on the night train. Book up to 90 days in advance and print the ticket yourself. PREM'S go fast so book as soon as the 90-day window opens. Fifth, train travel in Italy is relatively inexpensive, especially if you take regional trains rather than EuroStar Italia trains. There are some price breaks for booking in advance at trenitalia.com, but you'd do fine buying point-to-point tickets as you go. It take time to do a cost comparison between a railpass and point-to-point tickets, but you may find it well worth it.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 06/29/2006

Re: Re: Perfect Timing/ Important Info for Travelers
I am intrigued by the comment, "for the most part, low cost airlines in Europe are not the great thing that they seem." I've found them to be far cheaper and faster that trains over longer hauls, and certainly cheaper than renting a car. There are some sacrifices to be made at times...but that's why the fares are low. And if it weren't for low-cost airlines, regular airlines like Czech Airlines wouldn't be offering a $150 round trip fare from Frankfurt to Prague....nor would national rail systems be offering train ticket for the same run from 97 Euros each. It must be noted that nowhere in the posting did it say the author travelled from Frankfurt to Prague via discount airline. I hope posters try reading the article BEFORE composing any letters.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 06/29/2006

Luggage
I recently returned from 3 weeks in Italy. I spent the first 7 days of the trip without my one piece of luggage, lost by US Air. The suitcase hadn't been bothered, nothing was missing once it was delivered to me. Has anyone had experience with collecting for expenses and inconvenience in a situation like this? Thanks for any advice.
Mare Downs
St. Augustine, Fl USA Thu 06/29/2006

Good deal on trains
Dude, calm down. The last thing I'm gonna do while on vacation is get a PHD in the intracacies of the German rail system. Yeah I guess I could have done everything you described, but I found was easier for me to simply to wait on-line and have an actual human being figue all that out for me. I was simply giving advice based on my experiences. If you wan't give addition advice that's great, but don't insult other people that are trying to help!
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Thu 06/29/2006

Good deal on trains
Michael Schneider wrote, "if I had used the DB machines they would have never issued a VGN pass."

What makes you so sure? Did you try the ticket automats? I believe you would have found that the blue/white Nahverkehr machines do not sell tickets to destinations within the VGN (Verkehrsverbund greater Nürnberg). You would have had to use the VGN machine, and it would list options, like the municipal ticket. At least that is the way it worked in Boppard, on the middle Rhein, which is in VRM (Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Mosel).

If you had done your homework, and checked the Bahn.de for fares from Nürmberg to Rothenberg, you would have known that they were in the same Verkehrsverbund. Note that no fare is given, just the link, "Through tickets valid", from which you would have learned, "The selected connection is served by a transit agency. A special ticket is required, even for DB-trains. These tickets can normally be purchased locally at ticket automats or for example from bus drivers".

Knowing that you were traveling within a Verkehrverbund, you should have known to check the automat for special tickets, like the municipal ticket. I am sure it was shown on the VGN ticket machine.
<email>
USA Thu 06/29/2006

Jean - to Riomaggiore
Jean - We always started from Levanto then made sure we took the "milk train" from there which stops at all the five towns. Seems like that would be much faster than going to La Spezia and backtracking. Make sure you are getting on the local-stop train though, otherwise you will whiz by all the towns and will end up in La Spezia anyway! (not that I learned that lesson the hard way or anything :) )
Renee
CO USA Thu 06/29/2006

Train from Milan to Riomaggiore
Jean Bean, Just another thought: while staying in Milan for a week we visited the Cinque Terra via Genoa to Santa Margherita[sp?]. The train goes directly to all five towns from there. Also, by stopping there, you can visit Portofino (via boat). Santa Margherita itself is a very nice little town.
Devra <email>
Lake Forest, CA USA Thu 06/29/2006

Re: Perfect timing/important info for travelers
Thank you sooo very much for the warning. I will have to look for the article. The way you describe it, the author is stuck in the American travel paradigm that you must fly everywhere. In fact, NO low cost airline flies from Frankfurt to Prague, and for the most part, low cost airlines in Europe are not the great thing that they seem. RyanAir, which doesn’t fly to Prague, fraudulently represents Frankfurt Hahn as Frankfurt, which it isn’t. Does she only compare car rental and “Eurail” (rail passes) with flying? There are other rail packages. With point-to-point and Europa-Spezial tickets, the fare from Frankfurt to Prague is only €97 per person.

Anyway, I will look forward to seeing the article and I am already composing my letter to the paper for allowing this gross misrepresentation to be published.
USA Thu 06/29/2006

Train from Milan to Riomaggiore
I am writing to ask a question in regards to riding the train from Milan ( Malpensa Airport, then shuttle bus to Statione Centrale then to Genoa and finally)to Riomaggiore, in the Cinque Terre. Is it better to take the train to La Spezia and ' come back up' to Riomaggiore, or is it possible to change trains in Monterosso al Mare and then travel ' down' to Riomaggiore ? Would it save time ?
Jean Bean <email>
Syracuse, NY USA Thu 06/29/2006

Copenhagen transportation
Actually, the trains in the Copenhagen region work on a zone system, so the cost of going from the Central Train Station to the Airport should be the same on all trains.

I've only bought single tickets once, but they do not ask you which train, so it can't be any difference in price. And there's no difference when using 10-klip cards.

It costs 27kr to the aiport - about $5. Since there are four of you, you could also buy a 2-zone 10klip card for 115 kr and each use 2 klips. It would only be 7kr more expensive, but perhaps easier than multiple tickets.

Kate
Scotland Thu 06/29/2006

Train Pass
Looking at this plan Paris to Milan to Venice to CT to Tuscany to Siena to Sorrento to Rome, would the eurail-france-italy saverpass be a wise decision and get well used?First or second class?If so, would you suggest purchasing once in France?
USA Thu 06/29/2006

Venice Airport - early AM transportation options to airport
What are the transportation options to arrive at the Venice airport by 5:30 on a weekend from the city (only an expensive water taxi?) I believe the earliest bus arrives at the airport on Sat at 6:05 (too late for my flight). Thank you.
Ray <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 06/29/2006

suggestions for the cheapest cities to fly into the EU in Aug
I'm traveling spur of the moment to Europe this Aug. My boyfriend who is working in Iraq is traveling to visit his father as he is dying and doesn't have much longer. He suggested that we spend some time in Europe before he goes back to Iraq. I'm now searching for a reasonable ticket into the EU. I'm not picky where I land because I can Easy Jet to where we are meeting once I get there. Any suggestions for the cheapest cities to fly into the EU in Aug? I'm departing out of LAX.
April <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Thu 06/29/2006

Copenhagen Transportation
In September when I was in Copenhagen I used almost every transportation mode available. The city is easy to negotiate. I would recommend that you take a taxi from the dock when you arrive--I believe I paid about 15 Euro--and go to the train station. Buses are also an option, but with luggage it may be a little more difficult. From the train station it is a quick, inexpensive trip to the airport. There are express trains that are more expensive, but I just took the cheaper regular train service. It was quick, easy, and comfortable.
Richard
USA Thu 06/29/2006

Italian trains
To add to the comment below...its' even easier to use the self serve kiosks to purchase tickets. They are showing up in more train stations. Especially easy in the larger cities where the ticket lines at the windows are long!

We usually decide where we are going the day before, walk to the train station, purchase our tickets and then just hop on the train the next day...saves time and hassle, and I know I have a ticket in hand.
USA Thu 06/29/2006

Re: Italy Trains
There is frequent train service on all your routes, often several times an hour. I suggest that you wait and buy your tickets in Italy. When you arrive in a city, go to a ticket window and book a ticket to your next destination on the spot. Or do it the day before you leave if you need more time to decide which train to take.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 06/29/2006

Good deals on trains???
I just got back from a week long trip to Germany last week. The last thing you should do is use the automatic machines. The DB employees at the ticket counters know all about the deals and in my experience they always gave the best "deals" without even promting them. For example I took a day trip from Nurnberg to Rothenburg. Since they are bit of a distance from each other, I assumed I would need a regular roundtrip DB ticket. So I asked the DB clerk for a RT ticket and instead she issued me two-day municapal transit pass for Nurnberg for only 10 euro. Turns out the two cities are part of the same regonal operator (VGN) so the municipal pass also covered other destinations in the region even though they are about 50 miles apart! The strange thing is that the trains to Rothenburg were all DB but they accepted the VGN pass. It was a great bargin and if I had used the DB machines they would have never issued a VGN pass.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Thu 06/29/2006

JUDY...HELP COPENHAGEN TO AIRPORT
There will be an ship line attendant on the dock when you ship arrives.

Ask that person the cheapest way to get to the airport. A taxi will be quite expensive.

Don’t rent a car just to get to the airport....that will be more costly than a taxi.
USA Thu 06/29/2006

HELP - COPENHAGEN-FROM SHIP TO AIRPORT
4 of us are arriving by ship into copenhagen. We have an afternoon flight out from the airport. The ship offers a transfer to the airport for too much money. Seems we could do it on our own much cheaper. Are there cabs at the docks when we arrive? Should we take cab to airport, how much. Or cab to train then to airport, how much. Or we were thinking of reserving a car to pick us up. Any suggestions for the best way to airport without a hassel.
Judy <email>
Fairfax, CA USA Thu 06/29/2006

Good deals on trains???
Looking at the Graffiti Wall, there appears to be an amazing amount of knowledge about train travel in Europe. On our own my husband and I (or parents and I) just go to the counter and buy our tickets. When I'm with my son in Germany, he seems to know about these special deals where we travel for much less. Unfortunately, he says that even Germans don't know about all the special deals because they vary from state to state.

So, here are some train tickets that we will be buying and does anybody know if these are covered by any special deals? It will be my father, mother and I travelling. My parents are both in their 80's. They are: 1. Frankfurt-Wurzburg 2. Wurzburg-Rothenburg 3. Rothenburg-Michelstadt 4. Michelstadt-Strasbourg 5. Strasbourg-Trier 6. Trier-Boppard and 7. Mainz-Frankfurt. Also, can we buy them at the train station's ticket office--I'm not good at those vending machines when I have people behind me in line.

Thanks in advance.
Karen <email>
MN USA Thu 06/29/2006

Perfect timing/important info for travelers
Europe's Budget Airlines

It all started when a reporter discovered it was going to cost $577 to rent a car for a six-hour drive from Frankfurt to Prague. Like most Americans, she was stuck in the 20th century when it came to European travel, always navigating the continent by trains or automobiles, completely dismissing the third option in the travel trifecta: planes. But by the time her trip was done, she had found out how incredibly cheap and easy it is to get around Europe on the small airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet, and she shares that info with Denver Post readers, along with how it compares to using Eurail and renting a car.

Pick up your Sunday Denver Post to see the whole story in your Travel section!

You can read the story online at www.denverpost.com this Sunday, July 1.
USA Thu 06/29/2006

Laurie/ Day trips
I love Avignon, but not as a day trip from the greater Paris area. Even if the trains are lined up waiting for you and ready to leave as soon as you board, and you take the tgv into central Avignon and not the tgv station outside of town your round trip travel and connection time will take up nearly 6.75 hours. But, of course, the trains don't fit this ideal.
USA Thu 06/29/2006

Italy trains
Hello again- thanks to everyone who has helped me so far in my italy planning- but i have one more question.. I've begun to research my travel between cities(milan-varenna-verona-venice-bologna-florence-cinque terre-rome) and i'm hesitant to reserve train tickets online because of my uncertainty of the time i will be leaving each city. Are there terrible lines to buy train tickets? (I'm traveling July 9th-August 2nd) Any thoughts would be much appreciated!
Jenny <email>
MN USA Thu 06/29/2006

Tips for travelling with baby
Any tips and/or B&B recommendations for Brighton, England and York (or Durham)? It's me, my husband and an 11 month old baby. We're going mid-July.
Lilia <email>
Vancovuer, BC Canada Wed 06/28/2006

Re: Transportation in Versailles
Eurail passes are best for long trips. Versailles is in zone 4. A one-week Carte Orange pass for zones 1-4 costs E26.30 (or zones 1-5 for E31.50). They're good for Monday-Sunday, not for any seven-day period; but you can use them on the metro, RER (suburban express railway), suburban trains (Transilien), buses, and the Montmartre funicular. In your case you'll be better off buying point-to-point tickets for your day trips beyond zone 4 or 5. See this page for information on all the Paris transportation passes: http://en.parisinfo.com/rub6235.html&id_article=6771.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 06/28/2006

Transportation in Versailles
Thanks for your information - do you think it is worth the investment of Eurailpasses since we will be only based out of Versailles?
Laurie
Seattle, WA USA Wed 06/28/2006

LAURIE...TRANSPORTATION IN VERSAILLES
We spent two nights in Versailles a couple of years ago. The only transportation at that time was by bus; so we caught the bus to the underground station (a thirty minute ride) and traveled by metro to Paris.

If you plan to go to Avignon you can catch the train in Versailles or in Paris.

When you get there, ask at your hotel or a local how to get around.
USA Wed 06/28/2006

Re: Driving defense - Karen
Most European railroads charge less for children (on German Rail under 15 is free) and Länder tickets are valid for up to 5 people (or for parents and all of their children under 15) for the same cost as for two people.

The problem with a car for four is that less expensive cars, like compacts, which I use for all my cost comparisons, are unlikely to have room in the trunk (if they even have one) for suitcases for four people. If the rear seats are already taken by your children, well, then, you have to rent a larger, more expensive car.

By the way, most of where I have been is not in "our friend Rick's books". Fischen is not in Rick's books. Nor is Oberstdorf, Kleinwalsertal, Bolsterlang, Sigmaringen, Hechingen, Alpirsbach, Freudenstadt, Bad Herrenalb, Bad Wildbad, or many other places I have been to. I found Braubach and the Marksburg before Rick ever mentioned them. And, I didn't find them by driving around aimlessly. Well, OK, I found them by browsing around aimlessly, but that costs less and makes better use my actual time in Europe. There are an abundance of websites out there for Germany towns and sightseeing attractions, and they have links to others. You can go exploring on the internet and find something new around every corner.
Lee
USA Wed 06/28/2006

Transportation in Versailles
We are going to be staying for 2 weeks in Versailles and we were wondering if anyone knew the easiest and most economical way to get around. We'd like to take a day trip to Avignon, Disneyland Paris and a few other day trips. This is with our 2 children and we were considering a 15 day EurailPass. We'd also love to go back and forth into Paris!
Laurie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 06/28/2006

Another pro for driving...
I hate to drive, even at home, and always look forward to being able to use the trains and bus systems on European vacations. On the other hand, NOTHING makes my husband happier than being in a new country in a car with only a vague sense of where he is going! For him the thrill of "the hunt" and navigating among the native drivers and just the whole experience is a vital part of his enjoyment when he sees a country. If you are a nervous driver in the US, odds are you will be in Europe! But if you love the freedom and enjoy the experience, go for it!
(another) Karen
USA Wed 06/28/2006

RyanAir, both sides
Both are true! IF the traveler is aware of the distance and additional expense/time involved with using RyanAir it's a great way to go. On the other hand, a young family friend was not, and was lured by the cheap prices and just assumed he'd be flying into Oslo's main airport...had a whole series of misadventures until he got himself going again, many hours and many extra dollars later. It's great the RS Helpline can provide a "heads up" to travelers who might be looking at the RyanAir website while planning their trip from their computer in the US, and mulling the best way to get where they want to go most cheaply and easily...
USA Wed 06/28/2006

Help with exploring the Jungfrau
In order to get to the top of the Jungfrau you have to use the Jungfrau Railway. They have there own website: http://www.jungfraubahn.ch/en A tour really isn't necessary, everything you need to know about the site and all other attractions in the Interlaken/Lauterberran area is very well explained in Rick's Switzerland guide. It is THE best guidebook for exploring this area.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Wed 06/28/2006

RyanAir
Perhaps they are good travel times for the person who booked the flights. Personally, I'd much rather travel early....it gets me into my destination with more time to check things out, avoids rush hour traffic, and maybe saves me a few travel dollars too :)
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Wed 06/28/2006

RyanAir
What RyanAir and which July are you talking about? For July 2006 and ryanair.com, I found no flights other than at 8:30 in the morning, for which you would have to meet the bus in downtown Paris at 5:15, or a flight leaving Paris at 10:30 PM, getting into Bergamo at 11:50 PM. Those travel times are not only not "good", they are rotten.
USA Wed 06/28/2006

To Driving Me Crazy--Rent for a few days
I personally do not like driving in Europe at all .....something about several minor accidents, small parking places where I gave up trying to park the rental car, getting chewed out in the parking garage, rusty guard rails at the edge of the autostrada instead of a shoulder, etc. etc. Train travel is so relaxing in comparison.

That being said, there are circumstances where I think that renting a car is the best idea. In 2 weeks I will be renting a car for several days in the Alsace because I want to explore some small villages... I really only wanted to rent for one day (taking the train from Strasbourg to Colmar) but renting for 2 days and driving from Strasbourg to Colmar was better financially.....Also, driving in Scandinavia is as easy as driving here in the Midwest....Austria isn't a bad place to drive either--a poster earlier this week asked about that.
Karen <email>
MN USA Wed 06/28/2006

SNCF/Ryanair
See posting "Overnight Train reservations" down on this page for a list of several European national railway sites in English. On most, you can book tickets in advance, taking advantage of specials you won't find at the train station.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Wed 06/28/2006

Driving Defense
Norm - thanks for defending me. I thought the point of this discussion board is to offer your opinions and experiences so that others can decide how they would like to do things. I see postings all the time about the "horrors" of European driving and just wanted to voice another opinion. Yes, we do think it is fun and I was simply trying to be encouraging.

As for the cost issue - it is easy to compare the hard costs of driving and train if you research and plan each destination. I should also have mentioned that we often travel with our children so when we are talking about 4 people the cost for 4 train tickets versus 1 car has, on some of our trips anyway, been pretty similar.

I am glad Lee was able to see everything he wanted to and so cheaply as well! But if you are a confident driver AND have a good navigator, you can enjoy driving. Who knows - you might even see something that is not in our friend Rick's books!
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 06/28/2006

Driving in Europe is fun? / Lee
Lee, if we all did the same thing when we travel, life would be boring. Karen enjoys driving in Europe, good for her. You enjoy train travel, good for you. My sister walks throughout Europe, good for her.
Norm
Tustin, CA USA Wed 06/28/2006

SNCF
sncf (www.sncf.fr) is the website for French Rail.
USA Wed 06/28/2006

Rent a car or drive? THANKS RS READERS!
thanks to the readers that responded. We'll continue to travel as we have....first by bike, then by train/bus.

I don't feel like spending a ton of money on a rental car, then worrying about it getting dinged. We've always had fun taking the train, so we'll just keep doing that! We love the adventure, and we feel like real "Continentals" traveling the way most Europeans do...public transport. We won't add to pollution on our next trip!
Driving me crazy
USA Wed 06/28/2006

Thank you for the ryanair info.I'm thrown for a loop now. I am not familiar with sncf, sorry! I have many other cities we are seeing, that just happened to be the big jump between those two. For my date for ryanair, the tickets are only 34.99euro/person.Under 100.00eruo total,with good travel times. Could you elaborate some on sncf.Thank you.
USA Wed 06/28/2006

Trains from Zurich to Interlaken
Eric sorry I should have added there is no need to reserve your seat, the trains run hourly if not more often. Even if you buy first class tickets there is no need to reserve tickets
Sheila <email>
Broadstairs, UK Wed 06/28/2006

Driving in Europe is fun?
Karen, "I haven't analyzed the cost". Apparently not.

On a recent trip to Germany, my wife and I went from Stuttgart to Rothenburg to Berchtesgaden to Fischen in the Oberallgäu. We stayed in Fischen for a week, taking side trips including Lindau, Füssen, and Kleinwalsertal. From there we went to Sigmaringen by way of Ulm and from there to Herrenberg and back to Stuttgart. We were able to see EVERYTHING we wanted to see, PLUS make numerous extra, spontaneous trips, all using public transportation. We relied heavily on Bayern and Schönes Wochenende tickets and a week pass for the Upper Allgäu, at today's fares, we would have spent €240 (about $305) for all of our transportation.

For a compact car, per Via Michelin, our cost of fuel would have been $172. I got one quote from AutoEurope for a compact car, picked up and dropped off in Stuttgart. It was $811, so with gas our total car expenses would have been almost $1000, $680 more than we actually spent. I recently learned about Gemut.com and got a quote from them. It was for a compact car without any insurance protection, something I would not recommend, and not at all equivalent to the train, where I have absolutely no liability concerns. That quote was for $450, $625 with fuel, still over $300 more than we spent.

So, if your idea of fun is to spend $300 to $700 to drive a car, which you can stay home and do....
Lee
CO USA Wed 06/28/2006

Trains from Zurich to Interlaken
Eric, The journey takes about 2hrs, there are direct trains via Berne,and there are journeys where you need to change in Berne or there is the pretty route via Lucerne and the Brunig Pass which takes about three hours, look on the Swiss rail site at www.sbb.ch will give you all the information you need, there is an english option. Feel free to email if yopu want further options
Sheila <email>
Broadstairs, UK Wed 06/28/2006

Rent a car or drive?
Driving in Europe is great. My wife and I started our Europe travels in 1990 with our childeran, at that time ages 7 to 13. Loved the feeedom of having an auto. A pain in the big cities, so park it and use public transportation. You must be a defensive driver and plan on getting lost. Asking directions is a great way to meet the local people. We'll be leaving on our sixth European holiday in a few weeks and again chose driving rather than trains. I beleive the costs are similar, maybe the auto costs a bit more. For us it's worth the extra cost for the total mobility.
Norm
Tustin, CA USA Wed 06/28/2006

Murren
Greetings

I haven't been to Murren since they closed the funicular, but it's undoubtedly just fine. The Swiss rail-system is superb as far as organization & being on-time, so I'm sure the whole bus-cable car connection is quick and easy to make. At Lauterbrunnen istead of switching to the funicular, you just switch to the bus.

If you search on www.sbb.ch, the bus-cable car route automatically comes up for the Lauterbrunnen-Murren route and only takes 30 minutes. Certainly not much slower at all that the funicular & train.

Go for Murren and have fun!
Kate
Scotland Wed 06/28/2006

Ryanair
I would not recommend Ryanair for this trip. Technically, they don't even really fly from Paris to Milan. They fly from Beauvais, which is 70 minutes by bus from Paris, to Bergamo, which is an hour by bus from Milan.

Total travel time, including buses, waiting in terminals, and air time will be about 6 hrs. The cost of bus transportation, taxes, and fees is 40 EUR, not including RyanAirs "low" advertised fare. The morning Ryan flight requires you to leave Paris at 5:15 AM! The evening flight gets you into Bergamo, over an hour from Milan, at 10 minutes before midnight!

On the other hand, a day train from Paris to Milan takes less than 7 hours with a lot less hassle, and I just found fares on sncf for 50-60 EUR. There is a night train. It costs more, but you save a night's hotel cost, and you use time you would have spent sleeping anyway.

Incidently, there is a lot between Paris and Milan, like Switzerland. Take shorter trips, see the sights in between, and enjoy your trip.

As for when to buy, the only advantage to Ryanair is the low fares you can get if you book well in advance. Buying tickets today for next Monday, for example, would cost €110-€140 for fare only; that's $180-$230 including all costs.
USA Wed 06/28/2006

ryanair
The sooner you purchase your tickets, the better deal you'll get, so don't wait. A quick check shows Paris-Milan on 19 July, as an example, with 99 cents (Euro) fares! I'm not even sure Ryanair will sell you a ticket at the airport...their website says book thru the internet or call their reservations centers....but the specials aren't available if you call. Be aware that Paris Beauvais is at least an hour and a quarter from northwest Paris, while Milan Bergamo is about an hour or so from Milan's central train station. For bus connections, see http://www.aeroportbeauvais.com/index.php?lang=eng and http://www.terravision.it/milan_bergamo.html respectively. Also, be aware Ryanair charges for baggage now.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Wed 06/28/2006

Help with exploring the Jungfrau
I will be spending 4 days in Lauterbrunnen with my 13 year old daughter, and want to see the Jungfrau. What is the best way to get up there? Any advice as to what kind of pass to get? I've read about an English speaking tour to the Jungfrau...does anyone have any experience with this? Thanks for your help.
Gary <email>
Cary, NC USA Wed 06/28/2006

Re: Ryanair
On budget airlines like Ryanair, the cheap seats sell first. Unless Ryanair announces a special sale, it's best to book as far in advance as possible. The longer you wait, the higher the price. Be sure to observe the strict check-in deadlines and luggage weight limits for both checked luggage and carry-on luggage.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 06/28/2006

re: Rent a car or drive????
Having driven one day in Europe and spent four weeks on business trips where we had a car but someone else drove, I can tell you that there is nothing special about driving in Europe. It is a lot more expensive to rent a car than to go by public transportation. The less time you rent, the more it costs per day.

I can also tell you from 12 weeks of personal travel, mostly in small towns in Germany, that there is almost no place you can't get to by train and/or bus. It might take an extra half hour of scenery watching, but if it saves $50, I don't mind. You just need to do some research. I am sure most people who rent a car don't know the options; that's why they spend more money. If you have a specific place you want to get to by public transportation, I am sure someone on this website will know how.

Personally, I drive enough at home. It is such a pleasure to sit back on the train and be able to watch the scenery without risking an accident. And, by the way, the fatality rate on the highways in Europe is 20 times that for train travel.
<email>
USA Wed 06/28/2006

ryanair
I plan on using ryanair from Paris to Milan in July.Do you suggest purchasing tickets before leaving home or arriving, then purchasing before boarding a few hours ahead of time?
USA Wed 06/28/2006

Murren Hotels
I was interested in staying in Murren, Switzerland but learned that the train is not operating from Lauterbrunnen this summer and in order to reach Murren hotels you need to take bus from Lauterbrunnen to Stechelberg and then cable car to Murren. Has anyone run into this? Has it been much of a problem?
Steve M
Philadelphia, PA USA Wed 06/28/2006

Driving in Europe is Fun
We love driving in Europe and have done so on all of our trips these past 10 years. We usually fly into the large city (i.e. London), spend a few days there getting over jet lag and then rent a car. Try to rent it as far out of town as possible - i.e. back at the airport. We enjoy the flexibility that the car gives us in visiting out of the way places, finding stops between destinations that we wouldn't otherwise visit. I haven't analyzed the cost all that much to see if it is cheaper or more expensive, except that we always rent a manual instead of an automatic (much cheaper) and never take the extra insurance if our Gold Card will cover it (as it does most everywhere except in a few countries like Italy & Ireland). One important thing - you need a good navigator and a good set of maps - I enjoy that part of it very much and so my husband & I make a good team.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 06/28/2006

Personal Guide for Budapest and Prague
Hello Everyone, My Wife and I are traveling to Budapest and Prague in August and were hoping to arrange a personal guide for 1 day in each city. Rick recommends guides all the time on his travel shows, but I am having a tough time finding any. Any help would be much appreciated.
Rick & Jania <email>
Boston, MA USA Wed 06/28/2006

Rent a car or drive?
I read Rick's comments on this board about driving in Europe. See that he recommends that if it's just 2 people a train is better....BUT, we want to get to smaller towns that might not be serviced by train.

What do you readers with renting a car experience think of renting for only 3-4 days? Or maybe just for 2, just to get the feel of driving over there?

We would NOT plan to drive in any big city, but rather get the car for a country escape!

Is it cost prohibitive to rent for less than a week? Are we silly for even considering this due to the hassle of renting/filling the gas tank/paying tolls/finding a place to park?

Thanks!
Driving me crazy
USA Wed 06/28/2006

limoncini/limoncello
Some clarification: Limoncello is a liqueur made from lemon rind, sugar, water, alcohol produced mainly in southern Italy primary in and around Amalfi, Bay of Naples. Sicily is a lesser producer. Limoncini is sometimes applied to limoncello though it seems mainly for the Sicilian product. It is difficult to tell. Limoncini is more generally known as a pasta dish made from lemons, the rinds, or the zest, and also with limoncello. Limoncini is also an Italian family name. There are many variations of the drink much like pastis in France. In the US, you may more readily find the liqueur as limoncello. There seems also to be a good spread of prices mainly due to the aging period and the production methods. Some labels can actually be drunk neat.
USA Tue 06/27/2006

re: Susan - Bernese Oberland
Susan- as someonewho has traveled to the region several times (my favorite in Europe!), I suggest you DO bring a pair of hiking shoes OR, at a minimum, a "hybrid" hiking shoe. Go into any major sporting goods store and you'll see selections from brands like Timberland, Merrill, Asolo, even Nike. They don't go up past your ankles like true hiking boots, but do provide the traction you need (even for easy hikes). Plus, they are also very comfortable for wearing in town, too. To minimize how much you have to pack, wear them on the plane amd then you can just pack a light pair of casual shoes to wear at night to go to dinner. I just don't think you'll be happy in tennis shoes. And I certainly don't think you'll be happy in any type of sandal- they just don't offer the support you need for a full day of hiking/walking around town/sight-seeing. For a long, but relatiely easy hike, I suggest the First Mountain Range. In Grindelwald, you take an enclosed gondola up to the top (dazzling views on the way up!) and from up top, there are many different hiking trail options, all VERY clearly labled. We took one that took the better part of a few hours (with picnic lunch we brought)- just spectacular scener the entire time and not at all steap, so we were able to do it at our own pace. You are off to a spectacular part of Europe- you'll love it! (and, you'll love it even more with the proper foot attire!!)
NY USA Tue 06/27/2006

Berner Oberland
Dear Susan, On the ride down from the Shilthorn (sp?) ask to get off at Tower 5 and hike down from there. They will stop the cable car and use a hook to pull it over to the tower and let you off. That route will skip the steep part and allow you to travel the best part back to Murren. Also take the second funicular up from Murren, go over the top of the hill toward Interlaken, the head toward the Eiger. You will end up at Winteregg in time for lunch, great hike!
Joanne <email>
USA Tue 06/27/2006

HELENE>>>>>>DRIVING CROATIA AND SLOVENIA
I drove through Bled, Plitvice Park and Ljubljana several years ago.

I would stay out of Zagreb because the roads through the central part of the country are horrible. They are not maintained and you can’t drive very fast.

Very few rental agencies will let you take their cars into those countries. You will have to call them and ask.

I found my car at Kemwel which is a consolidator, but there a few others.

Be sure to read your contract to see which countries you can drive into.

As for public transportation in that area, I didn’t see evidence of any . You might want to research that before you go.

You can learn a lot by reading the ”Driving Europe Crazy” section of this website.
BOBBY W
WACO, TX USA Tue 06/27/2006

Dolomites - Paul
When you are in the Cortina area take a few hours to visit the WWI fortifications at Passo Falzarego. You can take a tram up to the Rifugio Lagaquoi and walk down through the tunnels that were dug by both sides when this area was the Austria-Italy front line. Make sure you have a flashlight.
Jeff
USA Tue 06/27/2006

Walking in the Bernese Oberland
All the hikes listed in Rick's Switzerland guidebook fit the criteria you are looking for. Tennis shoes are okay for the hikes, but IMO sandals won't do the trick as you will be going uphill a lot, and they won't give you the traction you need.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Tue 06/27/2006

Walking in theBernese Oberland
Get a copy of "Walking Easy in the Swiss Alps" by Chet & Carolee Lipton. It will give you a lot of good ideas.
Jeff
USA Tue 06/27/2006

Should we drive in Croatia and Slovenia??
We are doing the rick steves best of eastern europe iteneriary. Once we arrive to Ljublana do you think we should rent a car to do the caves, Bled, Plitvice Park, Zagred and then drop off car in Split? Or maybe drop car back off at Zagred, but then we'd have to double back. Do they rent cars for those 2 countries/ What rental place? should I reserve in Us first or wait to rent there. Seem it would be easier to have car considering all the different places, might be hard by public transportation. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Helene <email>
Brentwood, ca USA Tue 06/27/2006

Hiking for Susan
While I can't help with route suggestions I CAN help with the not packing hiking boots part! Since (presumably) it will still be warm and snow- free I highly recommend Keen brand enclosed sandals, although they do come in a regular shoe style, too. I have worn mine on Cascade hikes here at home and used them to hike in Italy last summer. Lightweight, the traction is superb and they are stylish enough to wear with capris or sporty skirts- available for men, too. I wore mine on the plane to save room in the carry-on. This way you can perhaps not have to limit yourself on where you go. If you don't mind checking your bag, REI has the smallest collapsible walking/hiking pole I found that should fit diagonally in the 21" size bag.
USA Tue 06/27/2006

Austria/Bavaria/Dolomites
We are planning a trip for Oct. My main questions are: 1) Is the Grossglockner Road (we love driving over passes) anything more than passes we may drive in Italy? 2) Is the drive from Berchtesgaden to the Val Badia doable in a day ? 3) Anything we should see in the Cortina D'Ampezzo area? 4) Is a day trip to Cortina D'Ampezzo and Lake Misurina from Val Badia realistic? Itinerary: Wed. -Arrive Munich, drive to Berchtesgaden Thurs. - Berchtesgaden - visit Berchtesgaden area, Konigsee, etc. Fri. - Berchtesgaden - visit Hallstatt.

Sat. Leave Berchtesgaden, drive the Grossglockner Road, end up in Colfosco/Corvara Italy. (Val Badia-Dolomites) Sun. - Colfosco/Corvara - look around/drive around the Dolomites a bit. Mon. - Colfosco/Corvara - visit Cortina D Ampezzo, Lake Misurina, etc.

Tues.- Leave Colfosco/Corvara and drive to Mittenwald. Wed.- Mittenwald -Zugspitze, GP, Thurs. - Mittenwald-Innsbruck(Hungerburg, Hall) Fri. - Leave Mittenwald and drive to Freising, by Munich airport. Sat. - Fly home We've been to Salzburg (never berchtesgaden) before, so maybe we'll just spend an evening there. Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you in advance. paul
Paul <email>
NJ USA Tue 06/27/2006

Walking in the Bernese Oberland
My husband and I will spend a week in the Bernese Oberland in September based in Murren. As we would prefer to keep our luggage to a bare minimum and don't have hiking boots, we are planning to take only a sturdy pair of tennis shoes. We would like some recommendations on the most scenic 1-4 hour hikes (longer if truly special) from Murren, Wengen, Grindelwald, or surrounding areas, that are fairly easy and are safe to take in sneakers and with limited gear/provisions. Thanks very much.
Susan
Houston, TX USA Tue 06/27/2006

Getting Around Austria
Dear DB:

My husband and I have taken two trips to southeastern Germany and the Salzburg, Hallstat and Grundlesee areas of Austria and had a car each time. In this part of the world, the ability to meander throughout the charming towns and villages and explore the beautiful countryside by car was a real treat (and I am a lover of train travel). We never had any trouble parking. I believe that by Vienna however, a switch back to rail travel might be of some benefit.
Susan Adams
Houston, TX USA Tue 06/27/2006

Overnight Train reservations
Kristina...any of the fast long-distance trains you take these days will require reservations...whether for a seat or for the additional sleeping accommodations. All have sit-up seats for overnight use...they all recline to a certain extent. Depending on when you travel, some of the routes you want to take may be full. To avoid that, you can buy tickets and reservations ahead of time at one of two spots....the national rail websites, or at raileurope.com for those which don't have on-line purchasing yet. The RailEurope site is limited in its ticket selection, and the most expensive option, but should offer most of what you'll need. The national rail sites may also have specials which you may not find anywhere else, including at the station...just be careful as to the conditions...no refunds, changes, etc. National rail sites include www.nationrail.co.uk for Britain, www.sncf.fr/indexe.htm for France, www.trenitalia.com/en/index.html for Italy, www.b-rail.be/main/E for Belgium, www.bahn.de (click on international guests) for Germany, sbb.ch/en/index.htm for Switzerland, www.oebb.at/vip8/oebb/en/index.jsp for Austria and www.ose.gr/echome.asp?lang=2 for Greece. On all but the Greek site, you can purchase tickets, most for printout at home. Some may require a smattering of German, French, or Italian to understand some parts, but you can always get a rough translation at babelfish.altavista.com
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Tue 06/27/2006

Paris Museum Pass
The Paris Museum Pass is great, but I wanted everyone to know that they have changed slightly. They are no longer good for 1, 3, or 5 days. As of about March or April, they are now only good for 2, 4, or 6 days. The price is slightly higher than what is listed in Rick Steve's Guide Book (Paris 2006) but then the days are entended by one day also.

My daughter and I just got back and we got a 4 day pass. It was fantastic!! I can't wait to go on another adventure soon.
Randy
Utah USA Tue 06/27/2006

What to do after a bike tour (Spring 07)
OK, we've been to Italy 4x, and are going for the 5th. We are doing a bike tour, and will allow 4-5 nights after for some additional sightseeing/sensa bike. I'm open for some suggestions please. Thinking about northern this time...or north east. (around Venice?)

Been to Venice (just a day trip) but no place north of Milan.

RS readers - please send me some suggestions - places you really enjoyed. We are not into museums, but love to see Duomos. Love to climb every tower for the view!

Not sure if we will rent a car...so let me know if you think it's worth it. We usually just like to base ourselves in a town, then take the train to explore the region, but maybe this time a car is called for?

Don't want to stay in Milan or Florence...a smaller town as a base is better! Want to shop at local markets for food and get away from the normal tourist areas if possible.

We will be in Italy in May next year. Already made my air reservations and bike tour reservations. Just want to fill those last few days. Normally, I'm good at picking something, but we've been so many times, I'm kind of running out of the "normal" stuff we go to see!
<email>
USA Tue 06/27/2006

Cooking classes in Italy
Here are some websites to get started finding Italian cooking classes. You will need to check out which ones best fit your travel plans, dates, and pocket book. www.theinternationalkitchen.com www.cookitaly.com www.deliciousitaly.com/cookingholidays.htm www.foodreference.com/html/italian-cooking.html cookforfun.shawguides.com
GE
Washington USA Tue 06/27/2006

Kristine: Night Trains
Regular seats are available on night trains. You do not need to ride in a compartment or couchette. I have never gone that route, but Rick’s book has a whole section on trying to sleep in a regular seat on a night train. (It does not sound pretty.)

As far as I know any requirement for reservations for these seats is the same as for seats in the day (which varies by country and route). Of course even if not required, the reservations do guarantee you seats.

You can reserve (whether for seats or bunks) in Europe, likely for less than from the States. The sooner you reserve, the less chance you will be told, No more room, but the later you reserve, the more flexibility for you. Busy routes do fill up.

One strategy is to make any necessary reservations to leave as you arrive in each place (and are in the train station anyway).

Good luck!
Adam
Boston, USA Tue 06/27/2006

Bringing back food and beverage
Kimberly---you can certainly bring back chocolate, and (assuming you're over 21) some beer. There is a restriction on the total amount of alcohol, so you should check customs regulations for that. (It's 2 liters for distilled spirits, but I don't know how that translates into beer). It is safest to put glass bottles in your carryon, rather than your checked baggage. And whatever food and beverages you bring back, do not try to conceal them---list everything on the customs declaration form. Also, as already mentioned, take care that the chocolate does not melt or get warm on your travels. It's best to buy it at the airport just before your flight home. The airport shops usually have all kinds of wonderful chocolate.
Seattle, WA USA Tue 06/27/2006

Fear of Flying
Just returned from a trip to Italy. I agree with Karen from Atlanta...Xanax is the way to go. It did not put me to sleep, but did put me at ease.
Jason
NJ USA Tue 06/27/2006

Fellow Fear of Flying Traveler
Lisa - I developed my fear of flying 20 years ago. For the first 10 years I just gritted my teeth and made myself do it. Pretty soon the fear extended to nightmares beforehand and feelings of panic when I made the reservation. Enter the wonderful world anti-anxiety drugs! My doctor started off prescribing exactly 2 Xanax (similar to the Valium the poster below had taken) for my annual trip to Europe. They are great and I fly several times a year now with the help of these pills. They make me a little sleepy but do not knock my out. I am relaxed, but not "dopey". My anxiety has diminished to the point where I do not get sick the night before a takeoff and I have even take a few short trips without the pills at all. Ask your doctor about a prescription - it has made all the difference to me.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Tue 06/27/2006

Lake Como
We are traveling with another couple to Italy in September for two weeks. For one week, we have rented a villa on Lake Como. We have rented a car, and are wanting to visit the surrounding area, especially the Alps. We also would like to take a one-day cooking class. Any suggestions or recommendations for excursions or cooking classes would be greatly appreciated. Grazie!
Jodie <email>
Columbus, Ohio USA Tue 06/27/2006

KIMBERLY....BRINGING FOOD HOME
Bringing chocolate home is a great idea, but be sure you protect it from heat all the time as you travel through Europe.

I tried it once, but somewhere along my trip home, it got too hot and melted.

Customs will let you bring it in.
USA Tue 06/27/2006

Lisa: Fear of Flying
Hi Lisa, I have the same issue that you are experiencing. I work myself up so much that I have panic attacks just thinking of flying. I just flew to Rome and back and it was 6 flights all together. I have a few things that help. I love music and it calms me, so I bring along my MP3 player and relax. I take a few Tylenol PM and Melatonin if I have it. But the best is muscle relaxers. It helps me rest and not worry as much. I was in a panic about the long 9 hour flight I had to make and it was the smoothest. Just keep breathing and that helps relax the muscles. It will be ok! If I can do it (because of my panic attacks), anyone can do it!
Natalie <email>
Mt. Juliet, TN USA Tue 06/27/2006

Valerie: Bus Tours
Valerie: There is an awesome tour bus that I recently was on in Rome. It helped the day we arrived and were too tired to walk due to jet lag. It is near the Termini train station. You will see many day buses and several kiosks. Go to the kiosk that is ATAC. Ask for the 110 Hop-on-hop-off red double decker bus. It takes you all over Rome. You can get off at any time and go to the sites. Then when you are finished with that site, just wait at the bus-sign and another 110 red double decker will come and pick you up on their way. I think there are several double decker buses. The cost is 13 euros. I hope this helps!
Natalie <email>
Mt. Juliet, TN USA Tue 06/27/2006

Kathy: Last minute travel
Check out the website www.site59.com They are normally booked two weeks to one day ahead of travel and this may help!
Natalie <email>
Mt. Juliet, TN USA Tue 06/27/2006

Kristina: Overnight trains
For the overnight trains and regular day trains, you have to make reservations at the train stations. There is a fee of about 5 - 10 euros per person. I tried to make reservations before I left America, and I was told (by EuroRail) that I had to make all my seat arrangements/reservations at the train station. Your best bet is to get a couchette, but remember that there is a possibility of sharing it with complete strangers. Even in the regular seats, you will be sharing the area with others. Because you are travelling at night, the best is a couchette (beds and seats). Take an alarm with you just in case you have to make connections. You don't want to miss a connection and most of the European trains are on time. I hope this helps!
Natalie <email>
Mt. Juliet, TN USA Tue 06/27/2006

Limoncino/Limoncello
Robert- There is a wonderful restaurant in Monterosso named Ciak. There is a wine store a few feet away of the same name and I believe it may have the same owner. Spent a little time tasting several limoncinos there. Have not found the store on line, but the restaurant is easy to find. Maybe you can contact them and ask. Also, maybe someone who knows can clarify if there is a difference between limincino and limoncello, as I have seen both written on labels. Ciao!
CA
FL USA Tue 06/27/2006

Rome Tours
Valerie- I signed up 3 millenia tours for an escorted tour of the colloseum and catacombs. My girlfriends and I are doing a private tour with taxi and private car and it is fairly reasonable split 3 ways. The tour that I am most excited by is the private after hours Vatican tour with Helen at Italy with us. Can you say no lines, after normal business hours and limited people. This one is a little pricey but no where near the private after hours tours. Here are the links. http://www.threemillennia.com/ and http://www.italywithus.biz/pages/VaticanTour.htm
Dawn
USA Tue 06/27/2006

Tom Agfen
An advantage for American travellers going to Europe is our passport. It has great clout. I have watched as persons of other nations have been checked by airport security personnel, and I have wondered as other persons had baggage spot checked but never mine while my passport was visible. So, if your passport is not stamped, if immigration officers do not question you, credit your US passport.
USA Mon 06/26/2006

Overnight train reservations
We are taking approximately 5-10 overnight trains while in Europe. We JUST Realized that most trains do not offer just seats for the night trains--we are going by the CHEAP and were planning on just sleeping in the seats but apparently you have to reserve a sleeper or couchette (?). We are going from London-Athens, and pretty much everywhere in between, and all over Italy. Should we make the reservations for the sleepers here or can we make them once we get into the city over in Europe? When reserving at the train station, do you pay a fee, or is that just when doing so from the US? Do any overnight trains have seats also? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks a lot.
Kristina <email>
Seattle, Wa USA Mon 06/26/2006

Limoncello
I think you mean Limoncello. you should be able to find it in a local liquor store...just ask. It might not be fresh from Sorrento or the CT, but it's lemony!
USA Mon 06/26/2006

trish--frankfurt and copenhagen
Trish: You can make better use of the knowledge of the Grafitti Wall if you can be a little specific as to what you want to know. For example, "headed to Frankfurt"--very few travelers view Frankfurt as a tourist destination--you must be thinking of somewhere in Germany beyond the airport. Having had teenagers, I can definitely say that teens aren't "one size fits all." Do they like athletic activities, hiking or biking? Is the golden ager relatively healthy or are there physical needs? Are you looking for cheap accomodations or interesting towns? I assume you've already bought some travel guides. If not, the Rick Steves store is a good place to start.
Karen
MN USA Mon 06/26/2006

Christmas in Rome
Our family will be spending the Christmas holidays in Italy this year - 2006. Have heard that nothing much happens on Christmas Day in Rome. Would this be a good day to travel via train from Rome to Assisi? Also - have 5 family members - anyone have advice on staying in a convent or a family suite. Thanks!
Schatzie <email>
Hillsborough, NC USA Mon 06/26/2006

Limoncino
There's a retail shop at http://www.palmbayimports.com/ that offers Limoncino, but it's made from Sicilian lemons. There are also lots of recipes on the internet if you want to try to make your own.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 06/26/2006

frankfurt and copenhagen
traveling in july with 3 teens, 1 golden ager, and 2 in the fifty range! heading to frankfurt and copenhagen. any suggestions?
trish <email>
wilmington, USA Mon 06/26/2006

Limoncino, Monterosso
Need to buy Limoncino from Monterosso. I was in Cinque Terra at the beginning of a 3 week vacation and so did not buy Limoncino when I was there. Now my wife thinks I am an idiot. Can I buy it on-line ??? Thanks!
Robert <email>
Brigham, Utah USA Mon 06/26/2006

Fear of Flying!
I absolutely hate to fly and now that we are crammed in tighter than sardines it's not even luxurious. I suffer on the takeoffs more than the landings- I suppose gravity makes more sense to me! Once in the air I am okay unless there is turbulence. Mostly I just repeat the safety and odds statistics to myself while others fall asleep before we even take off! I will say that once I had some leftover valium from oral surgery and while I don't generally drug myself it was the best trip ever because I was actually sort of dozing even during the takeoff. If you are truly scared to the point of phobia or panic attack a pill might be the solution for you, also. Ultimately, though, be so proud of yourself for conquering your fear and just going. Without doubt my best life memories are mostly from European (or other) vacations that wouldn't have been reachable without getting on a plane!
USA Mon 06/26/2006

Food/Alcohol/Beverages/Bringing home
I am wondering about sending stuff back to the US/bringing stuff back with you. In particular, someone I know really likes German beer and wants beer brought to back to them, can I do this (legally?) do they check bags very carefully? OR could I send it back in a package? Would the cans/bottles explode in the air? Let me know if any of you have any experiences with this. Also, I am planning on buying chocolate in Belguim and bringing it through Europe and home with me, how is customs on the issue of food and beverages? Thanks!!!
Kimberly <email>
Seattle-UW, washington USA Mon 06/26/2006

Tea and Left Luggage
Kate is right. Left Luggage at Waterloo is not cheap but it is there. We have had tea at several of the large hotels in London and if you call them they will all tell you to make reservations. We have always booked ahead for The Ritz and they have always been full. My daughter thinks they have the best scones but they haven't always let one to take away their leftovers..if that's important to you. Same at the Savoy. They asked that we make reservations but went without them with no problems and the room was nearly empty. My favourite you ask. Browns Hotel because if it's Agatha Christie and Oscar Wilde connections. Plus a wonderful tea. If anyone just wants a little something to keep body and soul together don't forget the Orangery at Kensington Palace. Wonderful cream teas.
Helen
Kenmore, WA USA Mon 06/26/2006

Kyle- German City Maps
Kyle- contact the German National Tourist Office in New York City (www.ComeToGermany.com / toll-free# 800-651-7010), a TERRIFIC resource (including maps) before any trip to Germany. Before several of my trips to Germany, I went in there (I happen to live/work close by) for maps/other helpful literature, but you can also contact them on the site (via e-mail) and they will send you a planning kit, which includes maps (I believe for a nominal shipping/handling fee). I found the people who work there to be extremely helpful and I am sure they'll be equally as helpful by phone or e-mail. Good luck and happy travels.
Lawrence <email>
New York, NY USA Mon 06/26/2006

Fear of Flying
Hi all. I have a terrible fear of flying and I'm forcing myself to fly this year. I'm flying from Washington, D.C. to San Francisco and then I'm flying from Newark, NJ to Rome (non-stop). I'm already giving myself nightmares. Does anyone have any ideas for a punk like me to fly more comfortably?

Thanks much.
Lisa <email>
Landover, MD USA Mon 06/26/2006

Gotthard Tunnel, Switzerland
http://www.gotthard-strassentunnel.ch/webseite_e/0e_frameseite.htm

Looks like it's open now.
Tony
San Jose, CA USA Mon 06/26/2006

For Jenny and Venice/Florence
I can't tell whether you are there right now or still in the planning stages of your trip, but another option is to stay on the mainland, just outside Venice, in Maestre. A quick check showed hotels in your price range if you don't want a hostel...My backpacking daughter did this and saved a whole lot of money and it didn't take long to get into Venice from there. Venice was very expensive last summer when we were there and one way we saved some more money was to eat an enormously huge lunch as close to closing time for the "siesta" as we could get and skip the dinners in the evening- a really big gelato was a nice substitute!
USA Mon 06/26/2006

Swiss Rail Travel
If you need timetable info for Switzweland, go right the the source: http://timetable.sbb.ch/bin/05/query-p2w.exe Input any two stations and you will received a complete timetable in pdf format; its a great feature!
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 06/26/2006

Gotthard Tunnel, Switzerland
I understand the Gotthard Tunnel in Switzerland is closed to traffic due to a rockslide occuring in the beginning of June. Does anyone know if the tunnel has re-opened, or when it will re-open?
Norm <email>
Tustin, CA USA Mon 06/26/2006

London, Italy and Packing
I'm going to London and Italy (North of Rome) the first 3 weeks of October with my 63-year old mother. I've been to London in late October and I was freezing. So I want to pack warm, but based on posts I've read on this board it seems like Italy is very hot this year. I was planning on taking silk underwear and a cashmere cardigan for London and layering. And also taking a lightweight windbreaker type jacket in case it rains in Italy. Are these clothes too hot? Any thoughts suggestions?
Lisa <email>
San Jose, CA USA Mon 06/26/2006

Re: Swiss Train Travel
If you go to www.bahn.de, the German national rail site that has timetables for most of Europe, you'll see that there are at least two trains per hour from Zurich to Interlachen. Some are direct while others require one or two changes. I have no experience to suggest one route over another, but with the frequency of service it doesn't look like you'd need to book tickets in advance. Someone who has made the trip would know better, of course.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 06/26/2006

Between Venice and Florence
Bologna would be a good stop between Venice and Florence. Alternatively, my husband and I stayed in a smaller town, Ferrara, and made that our point of departure for Bologna, Padova, and Ravenna - we even went to Venice for dinner one night. Ferrara is a very charming smaller town, which is not as touristy as Bologna or other more popular towns. Everyone there rides a bicycle, and we rented bikes for the day to feel like locals! We stayed at Albergo Nazionale, which was just off the main square in Ferrara. The phone number is 0532 20 96 04. We had a double room with ensuite bath for 65 Euros per night. Although it was not the most up-to-date room, it was fine for us and its location was great.
Holly
Chicago, USA Mon 06/26/2006

German city maps
Thanks to all who contacted me about where to get German city maps.
Kyle <email>
GA USA Mon 06/26/2006

Jenny--Try Verona
Verona would be a good one-night stop between Venice and Florence.
USA Mon 06/26/2006

Re: Barcelona to Bordeaux
There are direct flights between Barcelona and Bordeaux on Air France, but they're expensive. If you want to save money, the train is probably your best option. According to www.bahn.de, the German national rail site that has timetables for most of Europe, the fastest way is to leave Barcelona Sants at 16:42, change in Narbonne, and arrive in Bordeaux at 23:47. You could also take a night train from Barcelona Franca to Limoges-Benedictins and a regional train from there to Barcelona. It takes a lot longer, but you save the cost of a night in a hotel and you have more daylight hours for sightseeing. There are other daytime routes, but they require multiple changes.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 06/25/2006

Between Venice and Florence..
I'm backpacking through Italy with a friend, and we just cut our trip to Venice short because it's so darn expensive there! So, now we have an extra night before we're supposed to be in Florence..does anyone have a recommendation of a nice place to stay in between? My price range is between 100 and 150 euros (we're splurging this night) if anyone has any recommendations it would be greatly appreciated!
Jenny <email>
USA Sun 06/25/2006

GETTING AROUND AUSTRIA CAR OR TRAIN
Whether you use a car or the train depends on your personal preferences. You must also consider the cost.

I would search the RR web pages for point-to-point RR fares and compare with the cost of auto rental.

Because you will have the car I suggest you keep it as long as you can before you switch to the train.

However, remember that a car is a liability in large cities like Vienna. Hard to drive and hard to find a place to park.

Driving in Austria is easy and fun because the autobahns are fast and well constructed. Remember that you must buy a sticker to drive on them.

I have made 10 trips to Europe and used a car or the RR service an equal amount of time.

I always consider having a car a big advantage because we choose to stay in zimmer freis; so we can drive through residential parts looking for a room.

In most countries we like to drive a short distance into the countryside looking for a zimmer in a farm. Farms are a lot of fun to stay in.
DALLAS, USA Sun 06/25/2006

TRAIN TRAVEL
Tickets are so easy to buy in Italy that I would not buy them here.

That way you have flexibility to change your plans any time you want to after you get there.

I don’t like to be locked in to a plan that far in advance. You may want to be more flexible.

I have been to Europe 16 times and never bought RR tickets in advance.
TX USA Sun 06/25/2006

Getting Around Austria-car or train?
DB, We traveled through Bavaria and western Austria (Salzburg, Hallstatt, St. Wolfgang) in Sept. of 2004 by car. It was great!! Driving is a breeze in Austria (especially after Italy) and you are right about being able to wander off on side roads to see more. But, however you decide to go,Austria is absolutely beautiful & meticulously clean!! Enjoy! (I'm jealous)
USA Sun 06/25/2006

Travel from Barcelona to Bordeux
What is the best option to get Bordeaux from Barcelona? Is there a non-stop flight? Or train or bus? Thanks for your suggestion, Emilio Francischetti
Emilio Francischetti <email>
Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil Sun 06/25/2006

GPS In Europe
Dear Gary, I respectfully disagree with Tony who advised you not to learn a GPS system on a rental car in Europe. We unexpectedly ended up with a GPS system on our rental car last year in France. It turned out to make a wonderful difference in our trip. We were in Provence with lots of unmarked back roads and we certainly would have made lots of errors, spent a fair amount of time backtracking, to say nothing of arguing without it. Ask the rental people to show you how to use it and have them put the first destination in. A very pleasant voice will give you plenty of time to make turns etc. Even if there's a detour it will readjust itself and get you where you are going.We actually thought it was a lot safer than using maps. Have a great trip.
Marian <email>
Brooklyn, New York USA Sun 06/25/2006

Afternoon Tea in London
The Afternoon Tea at the Ritz and the Savoy are great- I went to the Champagne "Tea" which was more like a light dinner at the Savoy. Depending on when you are going, it might be wise to make reservations, however, when I went in July, during the attempted bombings, both weren't that busy, but I had reservations to make sure that I had a table.

Also, you can go for tea at either Harrod's or Fortnums & Mason without reservations. Harrod's also has a food court where you can buy almost anything, including lemon gelato, yummmm
Debbie <email>
Ontario Canada Sun 06/25/2006

Italy with family
Dear Jodi, I'm glad your extending your trip to 3 weeks. Due to school field trips around Easter try to stay away from that holiday time. The weather should be great in March/April. It was for us that time frame 2005. A first trip to Rome deserves 5 nights and 4 for Venice, plan on a week or more in the hill towns and 3 nights in Sorrento is good too.
Joanne <email>
USA Sun 06/25/2006

swiss train travel
has anyone taken a train from zurich to interlaken? best route?timetable?should i get reservations in advance?
eric momberger <email>
new kensington, pa USA Sun 06/25/2006

Re: 7 p.m. Rule
There is a train that leaves Vienna at 20:34 and arrives in Salzburg at 23:52. If you take that train, there should be no question about including that route on the same pass day as your earlier ride. Still, as I said earlier, you could write to the experts at ricksteves.com to be sure.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 06/25/2006

Re: 7 PM rule
No, the main advantage is that you don't have to use two days of your railpass for an overnight train. However, you can, and I know people who have, continue to travel on the second day, using the same day of your railpass.
USA Sun 06/25/2006

RE: 7 PM rule
Thank you for all the feedback. So really the only time the 7PM rule would be advantageous is if you are taking an over-night train and then planning on traveling to another destination again that same day, right?
XELA
SLC, UT USA Sun 06/25/2006

7PM rule
I don't see any train leaving Vienna at 9 PM and arriving in Salzburg at midnight. I only see a EuroNight train leaving Vienna at 9:18 PM (21:18) and arriving in Salzburg at 33 minutes past midnight (00:33). That would require a second day of your rail pass, for the 33 minutes after midnight, since you already used a day earlier in the first day for Prague to Vienna.

It would probably be less expensive to purchase a point to point ticket from Wels, the last stop before midnight, to Salzburg for €17,90 per person, and use the rail pass up to there.

Note that if you do use your railpass for the EuroNight train to Salzburg, there will be a supplement, or reservation fee, even if you only use a seat.
<email>
USA Sun 06/25/2006

7PM rule
The 7 PM rule is for using night trains on a rail pass. If the night train leaves after 7 PM, you only fill in the following day and use only one (the following) day of your pass.
<email>
USA Sun 06/25/2006

Re: 7 p.m. Rule
For a definitive answer, you could send an e-mail to the experts at ricksteves.com. However, if I'm interpreting the rule correctly, a normal pass day is midnight to midnight. That means both of your trips would be on the same pass day and you would use only one day.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sun 06/25/2006

7 p.m rule?
I've never been to Europe and I'm a little confused by the 7 pm rule... I will be traveling from Prague to Salzburg and I'd like to stop in Vienna for part of the day. I believe it takes about 4 hours to get from Prague to Vienna and 3 hours to get from Vienna to Salzburg... so if I leave Prague at 8 a.m., get to Vienna at noon, then leave Vienna at 9 pm and get to Salzburg at midgnight, will I have used 1 or 2 of my travel days?
XELA
SLC, UT USA Sun 06/25/2006

Train/Bus Travel
Thank you.Leaving July 13,Paris to Milan,to Venice,to CT(riomaggiore),to Tuscany(Orvieto),to Siena,to Sorrento,to Rome, then home.Does anyone have advice for travel between destinations when deciding bus vs train.Views along the way? I do appreciate all.
USA Sun 06/25/2006

Italian train travel/advance tickets
You don't indicate when you are traveling, which makes a huge difference since off- season you won't have to worry about reservations as you would in "high". I purchased most of our Italy train tickets ahead of time, online, and wish I had not done so for the local trains because it would have been a lot more flexible to do so when we got there. For example, Florence to the CT arrangements ahead of time ended up being a mistake. However, I WAS very glad to have spent a little more and have reservations and tickets ahead of time for the super-crowded express Venice-to-Rome train in mid- July! So I think much will depend on when you are traveling and which routes. Another caveat: most all the trains we were on were at least a little bit late and sometimes very late and one was inexplicably canceled for no reason! (Chiusi to Siena, from Rome) Again, if you have paid ahead of time, or made reservations, and end up having to change your plans due to missing a connection you want....it looks easier on the online schedule than what happens in reality. But using the trains was a fantastic experience and we always (eventually!) got where we needed to go...
USA Sun 06/25/2006

Train travel
We are staying in 8 cities during a 3wk stay.Question:when planning train travel say between Milan to Venice, and Venice to CT, is it better advised to purchase tickets online (at home)or when in italy?
USA Sun 06/25/2006

Tips on using a GPS
Gary, As you've never used a GPS before, I'd suggest that you don't start learning how to do so in a strange rental car in a foreign country. Leave it switched off and concentrate on driving safely.
Tony
San Jose, CA USA Sun 06/25/2006

Getting around Austria - car or train?
I'm planning a trip around Austria in September (following a couple weeks in Germany) and am trying to figure out my best options for transportation. We'll be coming from southern Germany (Neuschwanstein area) - and we WILL have a car at that point (we'll be traveling by train earlier in our trip and again towards the end, with a rental car in the middle). The question is how long to keep the car, and when/where to switch over to trains. After Germany, the next part of the trip will take us to Vienna, with stops at Innsbrook/Hall, Salzburg, Hallstatt, Mauthausen, a possibly a day cruise on the Danube around Melk. No doubt the train service to most of these places is quite good (and there's also no doubt that having a car in some of them would be a hassle). But I'm wondering if the convenience of having a car in some of these places (and the freedom to wander in what I'm sure will be beautiful countryside) would make up for that. For those of you who have gone across Austria (in these areas), either by car or by train, how did that mode of transport work for you? Did you ever wish you had been going via the other? Any other tips/suggestions for travel around Austria welcome. Thanks!
DB
Seattle, WA USA Sun 06/25/2006

Yes, there are lockers in Waterloo Station:

Left Baggage Office Main Concourse - Platform 11/12 Waterloo Station London SE1 7LY

Tel 020 7401 8444 Fax 020 7401 8443

Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 0700-2300

As to GPS - I'm not sure it's a wise way to go, especially if you are novice. There have been numerous stories about GPS systems sending people via unpassable roads etc. Remeber that GPS is only as good as the information fed to it, and road situations often change much faster than the info can be updated. A good map will take you far, and you can always use the GPS as an additional tool.
Kate
Scotland Sun 06/25/2006

Tea in London
Patti, I would recommend reservations for tea in London. The Ritz has a nice and expensive tea but men should wear jacket and tie. I made reservations at Claridges because men don't have to wear tie and jacket. They just have to dress nice. You can make reservations online at http://www.claridges.co.uk/restaurants_and_bars/default.asp Of course there are lots of places to have tea so you can pick and choose.
USA Sun 06/25/2006

Swiss trains
Greetings

I found 2nd class in Switzerland to be uncrowded, pleasant and far better than the equivalent in the UK. The inter-city trains are usually nicer than the local trains, but all just fine.

When travelling on a SwissPass around Christmas, our seat reservations turned out to be unnecessary, but it was relaxing not having to worry about finding a seat. However you might want to make reservations if you are travelling at time or on a route that is likely to be crowded.
Kate
Scotland Sun 06/25/2006

Swiss train travel
I haven't seen much posted re: travel on Swiss trains. I'm considering buying a Swiss Pass and can save about $200 going 2nd class. Am I more likely to have problems getting a seat? Is there much difference in quality between 1st and 2nd class there? On the train travel message board, some were saying that elsewhere, 1st class is sometimes overcrowded and difficult to find a seat. Any details about Swiss train travel would be helpful. I will be in Switzerland for 3 weeks and plan on moving around quite a bit mostly staying in smaller towns.
Pat <email>
Orange County, CA USA Sun 06/25/2006

Rome to Venice
Just retunred from Rome. There are two ways: 1) train from the Termini station. It will take 4-5 hours. 2) Fly 1.5 hours. Then take a water taxi from the airport to St. Marks.
Jeff
NJ USA Sun 06/25/2006

rome to venice
we found the train from rome to venice to be cheap and good.also for the person going to spend 2 to 3 weeks in italy. cinque terre is definitely worth seeing
jayne
fl USA Sun 06/25/2006

Rome to Venice
In late September, early October, we will be going to Venice on business. I would like a couple of days in Rome first. What is the best and easiest way to get from Rome to Venice? Also, what kind of weather can we expect at that time of year?
Debby <email>
Lawton, OK USA Sun 06/25/2006

re: Food from Europe
We just got back from 3 weeks traveling through France and Italy. We knew ahead of time that we were not going to be able to bring meat products back (prociutto - forsea example) by checking the US customs website. We had no problem bringing Parmaseano Reggiano (vacuum led), olive oils, vinegars, wine.
Connie <email>
USA Sun 06/25/2006

Lockers and Tea in London
We will be in London for a couple of days and then taking the train to Portsmouth later in the afternoon. Are there lockers in the Waterloo station to put our luggage in as we sightsee on the day we plan to travel to Portsmouth? Also should I make reservations for afternoon tea in London before we go?
Patti <email>
Coral Springs, FLA USA Sun 06/25/2006

Bringing wine into Italy
It seems like bringing coals to Newcastle, but each person visiting Italy is allowed to bring in two bottles of wine and one bottle of hard liquor. Maybe add some good Kentucky bourbon to the list as well?
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 06/25/2006

Tips on using a GPS
I'm renting a car with a GPS for my trip to Germany and Switzerland. Yes, I will have maps for backup. I've never used a GPS before, and have no idea how to work them. Any advice or tips for this technologically challenged GPS novice?
Gary <email>
Cary, NC USA Sat 06/24/2006

For USA/Scandinavian packing
What an amazing vacation! I will recommend one of my favorite sources for travel clothing: Sahalie.com I don't work for them! :) They have some fabrics that might work really well for you- sort of a summerweight fleece-y type of material that comes in a capri length. Convertible pants, etc- they are geared for outdoor kind of travel and activities so I have found them durable and quick drying. Perhaps checking them out online might give you another fabric option that achieves the warmth you need without the extra weight...
USA Sat 06/24/2006

packing light: what should I leave behind
We're planning a trip to Iceland, Sweden, Norway and Denmark in July. Iceland will be pretty cool, Stockholm moderate, whereas the south of Sweden and Norway could be quite warm. We'll be doing a mix of city stuff and hiking/adventuring stuff (with kids).

In terms of pants/shorts, I am thinking 1 pair of fleece pants, one very lightweight pair of convertible pants/shorts, 1 pair of PJ bottoms or light knit pull-on pants to use as lounging pants in the hostels and to cover up while going down the hall to the WC, 1 pair of capris, 1-2 pairs of shorts. Too much? I could use the fleece pants to cover up and skip the PJ bottoms, but they may be too warm for lounging. The fleece pants are bulky (but fairly compressible) but I need something warmer than my convertible pants for Iceland. I'm not a skirt person. I could remove a pair of shorts, but they're pretty small ;-)
USA Sat 06/24/2006

Italy trip
Hi Joanne,

I was thinking of going in either March or April since anything later seems to be too hot...we may be extending our stay for 3 weeks instead of 2...ah shoot I just don't want to miss anything!!
Jodi
CA USA Sat 06/24/2006

Bringing wine into Italy
My husband and I wanted to bring a nice bottle of wine from California to each of our hosts in Rome and Florence. Do they allow wine through customs into Italy?
TK
CA USA Sat 06/24/2006

Passport Copies- you need one! And some other ideas.
I think if you lose your passport either by bad luck or theft you're going to need that dealt with ASAP- at least with the credit card you can use a telephone, from almost anywhere, to make the necessary arrangements. Besides keeping a copy of my passport, I also carry two extra passport photos that I have made before the trip. It's worth the $7.50 to have those with you, in my opinion, to expedite the process if you have to replace yours in a hurry. One idea is to keep these copies different places in your suitcase when out for the day- for example- between the pages of a book (left in the suitcase). I make my credit card info really, really tiny! I can fit it all on about a 3X3 card that can also be hidden somewhere...I often use the back zippered pocket of my toiletries bag. Just some ideas. I have decided I would rather have the info with me and take precautions that it can't be easily discovered rather than having the additional stress of trying to locate info you need when you are in a panic!
Karen
USA Sat 06/24/2006

VALERIE----BUS TOURS OF ROME
I have always been successful in finding tour companies by doing a google search for “Rome Bus Tours”.

You will find a lot of them with descriptions of tours, stops, length of time and costs.
JAN W.
NYCITY, USA Sat 06/24/2006

what to tell customs agent
I don't think Mike's question was about lying, but more about how much detail of his itinerary he needs to go into. I think the answer is to give a simple summary of the plan (staying in London for X days, then traveling throughout southern europe for another 2 weeks, or whatever). If they want more details, they will ask. I think it's fine if you're playing things by ear and don't know the exact details too. They probably want to know how long you are staying overall, and that you are not planning on working there (unless you are, and have a visa to do so).
USA Sat 06/24/2006

TRAVEL JOURNALS
When I prepare for a trip I visit my local dollar store or Target or Walmart and buy a journal for $1.00.

Before I buy I count the pages to be sure there are enough to record daily activity. I have over 20 of them stacked up.
CHICAGO, IL USA Sat 06/24/2006

Bus Tours in Rome
I'm looking to spend one day in Rome while visiting Italy. I am interested in seeing the city via a bus tour. Does anyone have any good ideas as to what companies provide a fairly decent tour of the "big ticket" venues (e.g. Colessuem, St. Peter's, Pantheon)?
Valerie <email>
Coventry, CT USA Sat 06/24/2006

MIKE>>>>WHAT TO TELL CUSTOMS OFFICIALS
Your question is not stupid, but I wonder why you ask.

Most travelers answer the questions. If you choose to lie, you will regret it.

After all customs men have years experience of asking questions; so they know when you are not honest.
MAY K.
DALLAS, USA Sat 06/24/2006

KYLE....OBTAINING CITY MAPS
After 20 years of travel I have learned that the only place to buy a useful city map is in the town you need one for.

When you get there ask someone where to get a good one.
USA Sat 06/24/2006

GARY....KEEPING THINGS SAFE IN HOTEL ROOM
You should keep a copy of your credit card because if you report it stolen, the first question will be what is your number.

That is so the person who is to help you can verify that you are the card-holder.

Keeping a copy of your passport is essential if you have to go to an American embassy or consulate to obtain a temporary passport.
USA Sat 06/24/2006

transport PARIS-Orly SUD at 5AM; taxi only option?
Mary....how early do you want to be out there? You can take the Paris night buses, Noctilien, which take about an hour and 15 minutes from your area to Orly South. Check out the RATP website at http://www.ratp.info/informer/anglais/index.php#. Enter your departure point and your destination, (Rennes - Metro and Aeroport D'Orly Sud) and it'll work out the route and show you maps of where to catch your buses. As well, easyjet has teamed up with ParisShuttle to offer hotel pickups and trips to Orly. Check out http://easyjet.parishuttle.com/. I would assume they'd go early enough in the morning, since they're partnered with easyjet...17 Euros each way. You can also check out the Air France coach service, OrlyBus and JetBus to see if they might meet your needs.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sat 06/24/2006

HELENE------ROOM RECOMMENDATIONS
Do a google.com search for “Amsterdam accommodations”. Then do the same for each town.

You will find hundreds of rooms and B&Bs. It takes time, but I never fail to find what I am searching for.
USA Sat 06/24/2006

RE: Trip to Ghent?
DB, we stayed in Bruges and made a day trip to Ghent and thought it was great. I would highly recommend a trip to that lovely city. The TI has a great walking map.
Dawn
Minnepolis, USA Sat 06/24/2006

Helene--Budapest
Helene--We're just back from Budapest and we stayed at the Leo Panzio. We liked it quite a bit. You can't beat the location, it's literally steps away from the subway and other sites you'll want to see. The only problem we had there was that we made our reservations months and months ago and requested quiet rooms on the inside. Up until days before we got there, we were assured we had specific rooms (sorry, I don't remember the numbers). When we arrived, we were told that our rooms were given to people who had reservations. Of course, that made no sense to us and we did end up on the street side. It wasn't horrible, but it wasn't super quiet, either. The rooms were great, breakfast very nice and the staff friendly. As you may have read, the elevator is really something to see. Regardless of where you stay, make sure you ride the subway--it's a real trip! I loved the fast escalators and the antique stations. Validate your tickets because they check at every stop. Budapest is a lovely city.
Dawn
Minneapolis, USA Sat 06/24/2006

Daniel--Prague Hotel
Daniel, We just got back from Prague and enjoyed our stay at the Hotel Hastal. It's a short walking distance from the main tourist area and a very nice neighborhood to stay in...much quieter. It also has a restaurant and bar. Our only complaint would be that we were on the street side and curtains didn't effectively block out streetlights at night. I'd stay there again!
Dawn
Minneapolis, USA Sat 06/24/2006

re: Lost camera in Venice
Well, first of all, I'd say that the chances of recovering a "lost" camera might be r