Travelers' Helpline: July 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.
SHERI>>>>>>MOTHER DAUGHTER TRIP
Whatever you do, you need to do a lot of research before you go. Since you say you are overwhelmed I suggest the following:
Visit your library and browse through some travel guides on Italy. Then buy the books which will help you decide where to go and what to see in each area.
Three months is a long time to plan for and there are hundreds of sights worth seeing in Italy.
Spend a few weeks planning, but be flexible in you plans. Make everything tentative.
Which sights will interest you? Only you can know. Devise your itinerary and plan what you will do each day.
Realize you will want to vary from your plan. Always plan half days of rest every week.
As for trains....I would not buy tickets here. Forget the rail passes.
You may want to rent a car occasionally or take a bus to see the countryside at a leisurely pace.
Wait til you get there and buy point to point tickets on the day before you travel.
That is the best way to handle a flexible plan .
MARY BETH
CHICAGO, IL USA Mon 07/31/2006
Norm, if indeed that regional number works for reservations, I would very much like to know. The lack of a way to contact Italian Rail is a big problem.
It is really disgusting that they have thing so screwed up that people over there have to call to straighten them out, and then they charge them by the minute to do it.
USA Mon 07/31/2006
3 month Mother/Daughter trip
My daughter and I are leaving Sept.20, for 3 months in Italy. Our first such trip ever. We have an apartment in Siena, and will be staying there between excursions to other cities. We wish to take several trips to various cities in Italy, as well as other countries. We haven't any itinerary, as of yet. We really don't want to be tied to a schedule. We want the freedom to plan as we go. I am very confused by all the railway pass choices, and am having a difficult time deciding which will work best for us, for the 3 month stay. Are there any passes for longer than 30 days? She is 21 and eligible for the youth pass but it may be better for us to do a combined pass. Any suggestions? Also, any suggestions on places to go and length of stay recommended? We plan to do a 14+ day trip to several cities outside Italy. Do we need to plan on renting a car, or can we get by on railpasses and busses? I am very excited, but a little overwhelmed. Any suggestions would be most appreciated. Sheri
Sheri
Little Rock, AR USA Mon 07/31/2006
France Itinerary for Rochester
I have never been to Nyons but suggest your trip will be generally better if you consolidate some of those one-night stands into 2-night stays. Arles is a great base for exploring, and you could visit Versailles as a day trip from Paris.
Have a great time whatever you decide!
Adam
Boston, USA Mon 07/31/2006
Trenitalia phone number
Trenitalia has several regional customer service numbers. The one in Rome is 011-39-06-4730-6895. This may get you in touch with someone who can make reservations for a passholder.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 07/31/2006
WAMU debit cards
To Sandra. It was a M/C card one new debit cards. I never had trouble with the old VISA ones either.
Tom
Portland, USA Mon 07/31/2006
Trenitalia Phone Number
Lee, since I haven't actually tried the number, I should have said so in my post. I was simply telling how to make a call from the US to Italy using the number given.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 07/31/2006
Train Reservations in Italy
Tim,
I have never heard of the number 829 20 21 for Italian Rail. Have you tried it?
I do know that the call center number shown on the website, 89 20 21, is like our 900 numbers, and charges by the minute. Since they can't charge us over here, the number is not available to us.
Some time ago, there was something that was not explained on the Trenitalia website, and I sent them an email asking why that call center number was not available. Their answer was, "every informations [sic] is available on the Trenitalia website". Idiots. If it were, I wouldn't need to call you.
Lee
USA Mon 07/31/2006
ATM/Debit cards
To Tom in Portland,
Tom, Thank you for your reply, just one question. Were you using the new m/c debit card or the old visa one?
Thanks,
Sandra
Sandra
Redmond, Wa USA Mon 07/31/2006
Agriturismo - Tuscany/Chianti
I am trying to decide where to book my group of travelers in a Tuscany/Chianti agriturismo. The numbers keep growing and I want to keep it manageable. From the Graffiti Wall, we have selected several. Cretaiole and Foresteria il Giardino di Fontarroncoto. Has anyone been to the Foresteria lately? Can someone tell me where it is? I can't find the exact location on a map but know it is about 7 km from Arezzo.
Candy
San Jose, CA USA Mon 07/31/2006
CORA....ITINERARY HELP
I have been to both Budapest and Munich and for me there is no comparison.
I would visit Budapest and skip Munich. Budapest has much to offer with cultural sights and the river front.
There is very little to see in Munich outside of Dachau, the German Prison Camp.
HOOMID, TX USA Mon 07/31/2006
Train Reservations in Italy
To call Trenitalia from the US, dial 011 (US international access code) + 39 (country code for Italy) + 829 20 21. If you book a regular ticket at trenitalia.it for a train that requires a reservation, the reservation is included. However, passholders cannot make reservations alone online. You should be able to do so over the phone. Or just wait until you get to Italy and do it at any major train station. Yes, I think the current passholder reservation fee on EuroStar Italia trains is E15. Some cheaper trains are nearly as fast as ES trains while some are quite a bit slower. The timetables at trenitalia.it show what your choices are.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 07/31/2006
itinerary help
two days would be enough time to visit budapest, maybe save munich for another trip.
anon.
USA Mon 07/31/2006
Itinerary help
Has anyone been to Budapest? I am planning an Already lengthy trip and wondering if I should add Budapest. I will probably only have 2 or 3 days, should i go or save for another trip?
Any suggestions would help! Also will be traveling to Berlin, Prague, and Vienna, not sure if I should also hit Munich.
Would appreciate any and all help thanks.
Cora <email>
Vancouver, BC Canada Mon 07/31/2006
Florence to Siena Bus
Rebecca, the bus from Florence to Siena is easy it takes about 1:15. See the schedule here http://www.mega.it/ita/not/sita.htm.
Henry
USA Mon 07/31/2006
Northern Italy - help!
Suggestions to end a trip to Italy needed.
We fly out of Milan, so want to spend 4-5 nights in northern Italy. Not sure if we should do the Lakes, or go east to Veneto (we did Venice in one day a few years back...guess we could go back and visit some islands etc) or up to the Dolomites.
We like small towns, will not have a car, depend on train/bus to get around. Do like to hike, but not bringing hiking boots this trip. OK, should have some sneakers...so light hiking OK (like the CT)
Favorite towns to hang out in...hotel suggestions?
Want to sight see, and just hang and relax.
<email>
USA Mon 07/31/2006
RE: Gibraltar
Having been to both, I must say I would prefer to take a day trip to Tangiers over Gib...but it depends on your taste....British eccentricity in southern Europe, or cosmopolitan North African romance. Since you're in the area, there are ferries from Algecerias and Tarifa, and dozens of tour companies that can set you up, or you can go yourselves...just follow Rick's instructions in his Spain tour book. But another thing to consider is your schedule....think about spending an extra day in Sevilla or Granada, since they are both wonderful cities with lots to see. It may be more relaxing that way. Another suggestion....if you're in the Malaga area, consider the village of Mijas, another "white village" just behind the popular coastal resort of Mijas Costa, west of Malaga. It's a great little town, with lots to see....and not far from the coastal highway.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 07/31/2006
Re: Ferries
Fire them off an e-mail to their contact address and ask. A strange error to come up on a website!:)
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Mon 07/31/2006
WAMU debit cards
To Sandra in Seattle. Don't worry I spent the whole of May and part of June all over Italy and never had a problem with any of my WAMU cards. There was onebank in Rome but the one down the street was fine with my cards. Everyone should remember to notify their banks of their travel dates and countrys of travel. Have a good time.
Tom
Portland, USA Mon 07/31/2006
ATM/Debit cards
Relax, your card will work in Italy.
You can withdraw funds from most any ATM machine. Once in a blue moon you will come across a machine that will only accept Mastercard affiliated cards or only Visa affiliated cards, if that happens just use another machine across the street. FYI, European ATM machines only withdraw funds from checking accounts; you are not given the option of using your savings account like at US machines.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 07/31/2006
ATM/debit cards
Probably some people will rush to tell you that they have never had an ATM card problem. However, since we have had problems over the years in Italy, Spain, The Netherlands, and Sweden, here's my advice. Have two different ATM cards. Have two different credit cards. Take some travelers' checks and U.S. dollars as emergency backup. Yes the exchange rate is bad, but in a pinch you can exchange them for local currency. You could call Wamu to check, but you won't necessarily get correct information. When our Wells Fargo ATM cards didn't work for our entire 4 week stay in Spain, all we were told when we called, three different times, was that there was no reason they shouldn't be working. Very helpful! Also, it's a good idea to let banks and credit card companies know you're going abroad. That way they won't put holds on your cards when transactions start to appear from unusual places.
RK
CA USA Mon 07/31/2006
Sorry...I did find the website for karin weiss in Rothenburg...so I need no reply to my previous posting. Thanks
Claudia & Jerry
USA Mon 07/31/2006
Karin Weiss B&B, Rothenburg
Can someone give me the email address, of phone number, of Karin Weiss' B&B in Rothenburg, Germany? Can't seem to find a way to make reservations with them. Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.
Claudia & Jerry
USA Mon 07/31/2006
France itinerary
Yes, you will be too rushed. Personally, I almost never would stay just one night anywhere, except to break up a drive that's too long for one day. Remember that checking into lodgings takes time, as does finding your way around unfamiliar towns. Versailles can easily be done as a day trip from Paris, so why not scrap the night there and just add one to Paris? Also, I would not go farther west than Arles. You could base yourself there or in Vaison and easily fill your time. That area has so many attractions!
CA USA Mon 07/31/2006
ATM/Debit cards
Please help. Leaving for Italy in a month. Have heard that some people are having trouble using their atm cards if they don't have a visa logo. My credit union does not have a logo on it at all. Also has anyone had trouble with the new WAMU mastercard debit card. I have been told that it will not work over in Italy at all. This is very disturbing and need to know before I depart.
Sandra
Seattle, Wa USA Mon 07/31/2006
CHRIS....STOCKHOLM HOSTELS
The best buy in Stockholm is Formule1 motel which is far better than the hostel.
They have private rooms.
www.hotelformule1.com
DALLAS, USA Mon 07/31/2006
France Itinerary Question
My fiancee and I will be driving through France in September. I am worried that we might be too rushed and would like advice on our itinerary.
Here it is:
Night 1: Nice
Night 2: Vaison La Romaine
Night 3: Arles
Night 4: Carcassonne
Night 5,6: St. Emilion
Night 7: Versailles
Night 8,9,10: Paris
We are considering staying two nights in Arles and not staying in Vaison La Romaine. My main reason for staying in Vaison La Romaine was that I wanted to visit the Nyons Market the next morning. The other markets we may be able to visit will be one in Libourne and one in Versailles. Is it worth staying in Vaison La Romaine and going to the Nyons Market or will we enjoy Provence more by staying two nights in Arles? What do you think? I'd really appreciate any advice. Thanks.
Rochester, NY USA Mon 07/31/2006
Re: Train from Prague to Slovenia
I doubt that you found point to point ticket prices from Eurail (www.eurail.com), since they no longer sell point to point tickets. You probably mean RailEurope, which is, in general, an expensive place from which to get point to point tickets. If you go to Bahn.de, they do sell tickets for trips beginning or ending in Germany, so you could purchase tickets online as Prague to Munich (€49,50) and Munich to Ljubljana (€65). That's €114,50 or about $147, plus no shipping cost.
However, as was pointed out in another post, a faster, more direct, and hopefully less expensive route is through Austria (Linz & Graz). You can't buy ticket from the Bahn for that train because it doesn't go through Germany. You could probably buy that ticket (or a pair of tickets to and from Austria) by phone from Austrian Rail. Their number is (011) 43 5 1717. I suspect someone there would speak English, but you might have to wait on the line a few minutes.
<email>
USA Mon 07/31/2006
Siena bus
Rebecca,
90 minutes is correct for the express bus to Siena. A few miles south of Florence, you will pass by a beautiful American cemetary from WW2. Very moving & sad.
Bob <email>
Gettysburg, PA USA Mon 07/31/2006
Is Girbaltar worth it?
Going to Spain for 3 weeks in September and spending 8 days in southern Spain. Must sees include Granada, Nerja, Ronda, Arcos, Sevilla. Is Gibraltar worth a day trip on a tight schedule? What would you substitute?
Kathy Berger <email>
san anselmo, CA USA Mon 07/31/2006
Italy Train Reservation Help
I will be traveling in Italy in October by train with a Eurail pass (traveling all over Europe actually but question pertains to Italy). A couple of my segments have compulsory reservations. I have been told that if I buy in US, quite expensive for reservations but that can go to treitalia.it and book, get cheaper, and have more flexibility with cancellations and changes. I would like to talk to someone directly with them. Their phone number, which appears to be like a 900 number in the US (charge per minute) is listed as 829 20 21. I do not know how to dial direct from the US to this particular listing. Can anyone advise.
Also, have heard that reservations for EuroStar Italia trains cost 15 Euros. Is that true? An option appears not to reserve and take local trains that are quite a bit slower....what is anyone's recommendation on that?
Your help would be greatly appreciated.
John Wiedman <email>
Memphis, TN USA Mon 07/31/2006
Florence-Siena Sita bus
Has anyone taken the express bus from Florence to Siena? Supposedly, it's only a 1 hr 15 min ride. Truly? Anything particular I should be aware of. I am taking it on a Saturday. Regards.
Rebecca
CA USA Mon 07/31/2006
Amsterdam and Paris Hotels
The five star NH Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky has rooms available for E165 a night. The Grand is considered one of the best hotels in Amsterdam, it is right on Dam Square opposite the Royal Palace and is walking distance for Centraal Station. The rate is available from this web site:
http://www.bookings.nl/
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 07/31/2006
Lodging in Sicily
Does anyone know if there is an agency that will find an apartment or pensione in a small town without an hotel? So far all I can find are agencies that require you to go to where their apartments are. I am particularly interested in small towns in Sicily.
Ann Blum <email>
St. Louis, MO USA Sun 07/30/2006
Train from Prague to Slovenia
Beth,
There is a direct train that leaves Praha at 06:23 and arrives Ljubljana at 17:32. It runs everyday and you will need reservations. You cannot buy tickets on the internet, at least not on the German "bahn.de". It's probably too early to do this, so you have time to look into it.
San Diego
USA Sun 07/30/2006
A better way to travel from Prague to Slovenia?
I'm wondering what is the best way to get from Prague to Ljubljana on Sat,April 14. I looked on Eurail and it looks like I would have to go from Prague and transfer in Munich (6hrs) to end up in Ljubljana (another 7 hrs, total 13hrs and $160/p). Is there a better, more direct way? I'm open to buses, trains and over-night travel. I don't plan on getting a rail pass as this would be the biggest travel day for us.
Beth
USA Sun 07/30/2006
Amalfi Coast
Karen & Martha re the Amalfi Coast. I was there 2 years ago and personally, I would stay in other places, not only Positano. We were disppaointed with Positano. You cannot go to the Amalfi Coast and not spend at least one day in Ravello.
Judy <email>
Adelaide, SA Australia Sun 07/30/2006
re: sue - travl Italy
You say you have 9 days, and you list your destinations as: "cinque terre, florence, venice, siena. tucany hill towns,, dolomites, rome if we have time"...
Sounds to me like you will spend all your time watching Italy go by through the windows of your car/train/bus/plane as you hurry on to your next destination. Unless you want your trip to consist of little more than transportation, checking in and out of hotels, my advice would be to either add another week or more, or cut your itinerary down substantially. For nine days - I'd pick 3 places, maybe 4 tops (and I travel at a pretty frantic pace). Remember "I shall return" - Italy will be there the next time you go. Either way, good luck!
DB
Seattle, WA USA Sun 07/30/2006
To Norm Re: Ferries
Thanks for the suggestion norm, but I checked there at the site and it returned an error. I am hoping that this doesn't mean the ferries don't run at that time! It said "error bad weather."
USA Sun 07/30/2006
Nice to Northern Italy
For Sue- you don't specify if you will be renting a car or using trains, or both. This might be the deciding factor in whether you have time for Rome and even just how long to stay in each of your chosen northern cities/areas, since by train you will have less flexibility. I think a lot has to do with your and your traveling companion's interests- lots of hiking? (you'd want to include the Dolomites, for sure!) lots of art and "culture"? Or a mix...I have been researching southern France for my next trip, and since it sounds like you'll have had a good taste of the Riviera prior to Italy, maybe you can skip the CT (where in my opinion, anyway, you need two full days, especially if you intend to hike)and focus on places very different from the first part of your trip. But that is personal preference, too!
USA Sun 07/30/2006
Stockholm Hostels
Hey everyone, I'm studying abroad this fall in France .. planning a trip to Stockholm one weekend on the cheap. Does anyone have a suggestion for a clean/safe hostel in and around Stockholm?
Chris
Boston, MA USA Sun 07/30/2006
travel italy
I am planning a trip from Nice france into Northern Italy. Destination include cinque terre, florence, venice, siena. tucany hill towns,, dolomites, rome if we have time. It's our first trip to Italy. We have 9 full days (other time in nice). If anybody has any suggestions, itinerary, hostels advice - i would appreciate it. Especially the nice into italy part. thanks in advance
sue
sue <email>
truckee, CA USA Sun 07/30/2006
Marriage Proposal
I think the best thing you can do is make the proposal meaningful. As a newly engaged woman, I can tell you that the most asked question right after getting engaged is, "how did he do it?" It is nice to have a meaningful story to be able to tell people! Of course, anywhere in Italy will be lovely. However, if there is something or somewhere in Rome she has been dying to see, propose there. If nothing specific comes to mind, remember that the most romantic times are in the evenings when Rome seems to come alive. Musicians are playing, there is a soft light, and the atmosphere screams romantic! Good luck - I'd be interested to know how you end up proposing!
Chicago, USA Sun 07/30/2006
RE: Ferries in December to Tangier
You can view the schedule at the operator's website, http://www.frs.es They also have one and two day excursions.
Norm <email>
Ottawa`, Canada Sun 07/30/2006
Steve- Marriage proposal
I hope your intended doesn't read this forum!
My 2¢. Any place you propose in Italy is fantastic! If Rome is early in your travels, and you are excited about giving her the ring, then go for it. You will know when the time is right. Heck, you might even get her on the plane over! Get the flight attendants to help you out....the entire airplane could be in on it....The captain might even be willing to make an announcement...if you want it to go public that is!
As far as Rome goes. It is the eternal city, so I hope your marriage will last as long! Best wishes from one reader of RS's Helpline!
USA Sun 07/30/2006
Amsterdam and Paris Hotels
Does anyone have recommendations for hotels in the 150-200E range in Amsterdam near the museums and Paris in the 7th? Thanks very much for any responses.
Holly Newman <email>
Boston, MA USA Sun 07/30/2006
ferries in december to tangier?
do the ferries from tarifa to tanger morocco run in the last two weeks of december? my wife and I can't seem to find the information anywhere! thanks in advance.
USA Sun 07/30/2006
re:propoal in Italy
Rome is great, but I think there are many places in Italy that are MUCH more romantic. If I was going to propose while on a trip to Italy, I wouldn't do it in Rome. Venice comes to mind (for goodness sake, do the gondola ride!), it's about the most romantic place in the world. The Amalfi Coast also would be just about perfect. Don't get me wrong - Rome is great and there are certainly "romantic" places there, but I think even those really pale by comparison to anywhere in Venice, the Amalfi Coast, and probably several other places. I'm thinking the gondola at sunset in Venice would be completely off the charts, impossible to top.
In any case, have a great trip - and good luck!
DB
Seattle, WA USA Sun 07/30/2006
Do we need all weather boots in March?
My sisters and I will be traveling the second half of March to Paris, Vienna, Budapest and Rome.
Question is about boots/shoes. We know that regular GOOD walking shoes for Rome will be fine. However we are wondering if the weather/snow for the other cities warrants buying warmer foot gear. We all live in FLA and we just don't own that type of foot gear
Cindy <email>
Jacksonville, FL USA Sun 07/30/2006
Rome Engagement
I would be careful proposing by the Trevi Fountain. The ring might get pickpocketed before you have a chance to propose.
Perhaps at the top of St. Peters or within the Roman Forum (among all the history).
USA Sun 07/30/2006
Proposing in Rome
This might be a little cheesy but a proposal at Trevi Fountain at dusk can be rather romantic. We actually saw a proposal there when we were in Rome. Everyone clapped when she said yes. It was very touching. Good luck!!
USA Sun 07/30/2006
Proprosing in Rome
Maybe climb to the the top of St. Peter's dome and propose. The view is great from there.
Dean Jackson
Alton, va USA Sun 07/30/2006
Proposing in Rome
Hi everyone, my girlfriend and I are going to Italy and I need the perfect place to propose. I would like to do it Rome because it is early in our trip. Any advice would be appricated. Thanks
Steve
NY, NY USA Sat 07/29/2006
KKELLY...MEETING PLACE AT CDG
Someone suggested choosing an airline ticket counter for a meeting place. Use the one you fly with or one which everyone can agree on. There is normally only one counter for each line in each terminal.
C C M
NYC, NY USA Sat 07/29/2006
SMOKING IN HOSTELS
Every hostel will have different rules. You wont know what the restrictions are until you check in.
DALLAS, TX USA Sat 07/29/2006
I'll be travelling to Italy for study abroad in the fall, and am planning to do a lot of travelling. i just read something about smoking and am curious what that situation is like in hostels?
USA Sat 07/29/2006
Meeting spot at CDG
We need an easy-to-find meeting spot at CDG in the international arrival terminal or baggage claim. Any suggestions?
Kelly <email>
Philly, USA Sat 07/29/2006
I've got a question
If an International Drivers Permit isn't really a drivers license, but only a translation of the information on your U.S. drivers license into a form that policemen from other countries can more easily understand, then ....
Why does the IDP have to be current?
Assuming all the information is still accurate, what difference does it make if you got the permit last month, last year or last century? Why would I spend $20 each and every year to get a current IDP when the information hasn't changed?
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Sat 07/29/2006
Karen and Martha
For your itinerary I wouldn't rent a car, but would get to Naples (by train/plane) and take the Circulvesuviana train to Sorrento. There I would establish a base to stay and to travel to the other places--bus to the Amalfi coast, boat to Capri, and train back to Naples. Sorrento is as "layed back" as you want. There are lots of places to sleep/eat/walk.
Swan
USA Sat 07/29/2006
More for Bernard and Priscilla
The snow shouldn't be a problem. The Swiss have lots of experience dealing with it; cable cars and trains are usually not effected by it. Spring and early summer when the snows are melting and flooding occurs are the only times of the year when you have to watch out for mother nature.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sat 07/29/2006
Storing Baggage while visitng Chartres Catherdral in France?
We would like to stop in Chartres for 1/2 day while taking the train from Paris to Tours - but are wondering if there is any safe place to store our bags for 3-4 hours?
Carol
USA Sat 07/29/2006
More for Bernard and Priscilla
First of all, congratulations! Secondly- of course you can "do" this itinerary, either going all the places you listed and being constantly on the move (if you two enjoy that), or, eliminating some and having some days to sleep late and relax. But I wonder about factoring in the weather aspect- have you checked average precipitation (read: SNOW!)in the past three-to-five years online and take into account early blizzards, etc that time of year? I have not been to Switzerland in November- maybe some other posters here can make suggestions about how the weather should be considered in your itinerary- but when thinking about the Matterhorn and November it makes me wonder this! Best wishes!
USA Sat 07/29/2006
Double Stroller
Thanks a lot Katharine, will definitely check the double stroller out.
Vibha
Redmond, WA USA Sat 07/29/2006
layover in Amsterdam
Greetings
I've done the layover in Amsterdam going from Edinburgh to Copenhagen, and also don't think that's enough time to do any sightseeing.
The airport is very busy, with long walks between the various arms of the terminal(s). As a result, it's not at all uncommon for flights to change gates, and the walks can be long. So you want to leave plenty of time for changes and also to clear immigrations if you have to go through.
Have fun in Copenhagen!
Kate
Scotland Sat 07/29/2006
Transportation to Civitavecchia from Rome
To the family of 4 travelling from Rome to Civitavecchia, Italy. We took the train from the Termini station in Rome and got off at Civitavecchia approx. 1.5 hrs later. It was cheap...we booked ahead through our travel agent, through Rail Europe. Approx. $24. Canadian each.We went on a cruise in May.
Angela <email>
Orillia, Canada Sat 07/29/2006
Jonna with a layover in Amsterdam
The train ride into the city takes about a half an hour. I would not risk it, since your plane might be a bit late and you will want to be at the airport in plenty of time for the flight to Copenhagen. Schiphol does have an extension of the Rijksmuseum right there in the airport. In the middle of the airport there is a restaurant that serves fabulous smoked salmon, or there is a good sausage and cheese shop right next to the entrance to Terminal G and you can make a little picnic while waiting at your gate.
Mark <email>
St. Louis, USA Sat 07/29/2006
DB Seattle RE: Luxembourg City
Hi DB, we have made this same trip and have enjoyed all stops along the way. Our trip was by car, not train however. Be advised if you do not already know, Luxembourg City (and all of Luxembourg)is Very expensive. That is possibly the reason RS does not cover it in great detail. The historic part of the city is very central to the train station and you will be able to see everything of note in one day. A stay-over and off to your next stop would work fine. We stayed at the Carlton once and did not like our room although it gets good reviews on www.tripadvisor.com. On a second visit several years later we stayed at Auberge Le Chatalet. Much more money but it was very nice. We would not have returned to Lux City except that we were traveling with our daughter and she had friends in the city. Viaden is fantastic, even though the castle is a little "over-restored" Well worth the visit. We stayed at the Hotel Victor Hugo. Simple, clean and reasonable. Echternach is another story. Although the town is charming, I'd go to Viaden over Echternach. Trier is so fantastic, the history will amaze you. Out only disappointment there was the fact that the seats in the ampitheater were gone and you had to imagine what it would have looked like during Roman times. We stayed at a rather modern hotel opposite the Porte Negra. It was expensive but the 3 of us were able to split the $$. Had no choice, we arrived late in the day on a holiday weekend. Always, (if you do not know this) when you get to a town, find your room, then "sight-see". Zimmers everywhere! How far along the Mosel will you travel? Berg Eltz is a must. Perhaps if you have more questions, I can answer them. Happy travels.
Pat <email>
MA USA Sat 07/29/2006
Need Amlfi Coast Advice!
My mom & I are wanting to go to the Amalfi coast in October/November and need advice. We have the airfare solved, so no cruises, please.
Do we stay in Positano for a week and rent a car from there? Do we rent a car in Rome or Naples and drive? Has anybody heard of the Hotel Pupetto in Positano and has advice? We just want to see Positano, Naples, Sorrento & Capri in a relaxed vacation.
Where would you guys suggest we base ourselves and for how long? And where to rent a car? Any suggestion will be MUCH appreciated.
Karen & Martha
Raleigh, NC USA Sat 07/29/2006
Pat - Villas in Tuscany
My husband and I rented a room in a villa last summer in Tuscany. I found it in a book called, "Hotels and Country Guesthouses for Less than 100 Euros - Italy" published by Michelin. I'm sure you could also rent the entire villa if you wanted. It might be a good way to start your search.
Chicago, USA Sat 07/29/2006
Luxembourg hotel recommendation?
On our upcoming Europe trip we will be passing through Luxembourg on our way from Belgium (Brussels) to the Mosel River Valley (Trier). We plan to spend a day in Luxembourg City, and maybe do another day/side trip to the north ("Little Switzerland") or swing through Vianden and/or Echternach before heading to Trier and the Mosel. We'll be traveling by train. Rick doesn't cover little Luxembourg in his books so we're looking for tips. Can anyone recommend a nice Rick-style hotel in Lux City or elsewhere in the Grand Duchy? Thanks!
DB
Seattle, WA USA Fri 07/28/2006
Honeymoon in Switzerland in mid-November
Hi All,
We don't mind cutting back on the places but more importantly we want to know is this itinerary advisable?
Really in need some more advice.
Thanks,
Bernard & wife, Priscilla
Bernard & Priscilla <email>
Singapore, SGP Singapore Fri 07/28/2006
Honeymoon in Switzerland
I agree with Dallas about the jam packed itinerary. Remember - you're on your HONEYMOON so give yourself time for each other. It's the only honeymoon the two of you will every have with each other. Switzerland will always be there.
Connie
USA Fri 07/28/2006
Modal GSM world phone
I will be in Central Europe in September and plan to purchase the Modal GSM world phone before I leave. It will be used mainly for urgent communication with my husband who has medical problems and will not be on this trip. I would appreciate any information from anyone who has used this phone.
Lourdes <email>
San Diego, CA USA Fri 07/28/2006
Paris Hotel
Terry - Thanks for the great Paris hotel. Its look great!
Lisa (not the original poster, just same name) <email>
San Diego, CA USA Fri 07/28/2006
Lisa, Paris Hotel
Lisa, my husband and I thought this place was a GREAT deal, and charmingly French, for something like 48 euros a night for a room for two with a bathroom. It was located on a charming market street filled with local French people. It was clean and simple. The desk person speaks English so the phone reservationswere easy. We plan to stay there next time we're in Paris.
http://www.eurocheapo.com/paris/hotel/hotel-tiquetonne.
Terry <email>
Bend, OR USA Fri 07/28/2006
Villas in Tuscany
My husband and I and four other couples want to rent a villa in Tuscany next May. We are looking for something with a pool and bedrooms which include ensuite bathrooms. Not sure which company to rent through. Checking out Parker Villas and Tuscanynow.com. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.
Pat Hadaway <email>
Byhalia, MS USA Fri 07/28/2006
Hotel in Paris
Lisa--do you mean E60 per person for a Double w/bath or for a Single with or w/o bath?
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Fri 07/28/2006
Hotel-- Paris
Does anyone know of a decent hotel in Paris in the 60 Euro range?
Lisa
USA Fri 07/28/2006
BERNARD HONEYMOON NOVEMBER IN SWITZERLAND
You have planned too much for 14 days. You need to plan for half days of rest or itinerary changes.
Once you start traveling you will see the wisdom in planning less and not more for travel.
DALLAS, TX USA Fri 07/28/2006
Assisi Buses
Does anyone know what time the buses run from Siena to Assisi? RS says there are two a day - morning and evening. I'm trying to make hotel reservations but where we spend the night depends on what time we travel.
Teena <email>
lexington, nc USA Fri 07/28/2006
Re: Water in U.K. Restaurants
One thing that is different in restaurants in Europe versus the US is that you have to ask for your check when you are ready to leave. In Europe, it's considered rude to just hand you your check and imply that you should leave.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 07/28/2006
Brenda - Lake Como
I have never been to the Dolomites, so I cannot speak to that. However, my husband and I did spend about 3 days at Lake Como in May 2005. It was gorgeous and so relaxing. We visited Villa Carlotta, which has gorgeous and extensive gardens, visited other towns via the ferry, and there is also hiking. We stayed in Mennaggio near Bellagio and Varenna. If you would like to relax and catch your breath before your return home, Lake Como is a great place to do that!
Chicago, USA Fri 07/28/2006
Honeymoon in mid-November in Switzerland
Here is our itinerary:
1. Fly into in Zurich
2. Explore Rhinefalls
3. Explore Appenzell / Ebenalp / Santis
4. Explore Vaduz, Liechenstein
5. Explore Bernina Valley - Pontresina / St. Moritz / Samedan
6. Take train rain across the country to Lausanne
7. Explore Lausanne
8. Explore vineyard towns Chexbres / Vevey / Morges
9. Explore Chillon Castle
10. Take Golden Pass Line to Interlaken
11. Explore Interlaken
12. Take lift up to Gimmelwald
13. Explore Gimmelwald
14. Take train up to Jungfraujoch
15. Explore Jungfraujoch
16. Explore / Hike in Lauterbrunnen Valley
17. Take lift down to Interlaken
18. Take train across the country to Zermatt
19. Explore Zermatt / Matterhorn region
20. Take train across the country to Luzern
21. Explore Luzern
22. Explore Zurich / Zug / Winterthur
23. Depart from Zurich Airport back home
Bernard & Priscilla <email>
Singapore, SGP Singapore Fri 07/28/2006
Need advice on our itinerary
I have a rough itinerary for my coming honeymoon trip. Can anyone advise where can we seek advice on our itinerary? We will be spending 2 weeks in Switzerland.
Thanks.
Bernard <email>
Singapore, SGP Singapore Thu 07/27/2006
Fake Designer Goods
I could not care less about Luis Vuitton or any other designer. If someone is stupid enough pay $800 for a purse then he or she has only proven they have more money than brains. HOWEVER, to buy a fake Louis Vuitton purse is stealing Mr. Vuittons right to sell you his overpriced purse. It is theft pure and simple and THAT is why it is wrong to buy a fake. Not because you might get caught.
Charles M. Luther
USA Thu 07/27/2006
Should we change our Trip Plans for more Croatia?
HELP! Should we change Schedule??
Thanks Chris for sharing your trip. It was great. I am rethinking my trip. I leave Sat. and we're kinda doing the RS Best of Eastern Europe revised. Should we delete Vienna(1 nite) and Budapest(3 nites) and spend more time in Dubvrnik? We only have 2 days there. We are going to (2 nites each area) Split , Bled, The Karst Region, Plivice,Korcula and leave from Dubrovik fly to Amsterdam and Bruge. Think we should eliminate Amsterdam and Bruge (5 nites total)and stay down in Croatia and see more sights and enjoy the coast, rent a boat etc? Any helpful suggestions would be great .Thanks all!!!
Helene <email>
Brentwood, ca USA Thu 07/27/2006
Thank you to forum moderator!
Whoever moderates this forum, thank you for cleaning out all the spam that has been appearing. I really appreciate this forum as a great resource, and would hate to have this form of electronic pollution wreck it. Thanks for keeping it useful!
DB
Seattle, WA USA Thu 07/27/2006
Berner Oberland ???
As we are also visiting Berner Oberland, I noticed that different people is giving e different opinion. Some says Oberland is dead while others say Oberlnd is not dead but quiet. This place will be great as we hope to spend some of our honeymoon days up the alps.
So, I did a check and found that Gimmelwald Esther's Guesthouse is open in November. If guesthouse is open, I thought it may still be alright to visit. Any advice?
What we intend to do is stay there for 2 days. For first day, we will explore Gimmelwald and Lauterbrunnen valley area visiting Staubbach waterfall and enjoy jungfraujoch scenery. For second day, we will ascend to Jungfraujoch and end the day in Interlaken. Any advice?
Bernard <email>
Singapore, SGP Singapore Thu 07/27/2006
More on UK Restaurants
In pubs you order your beer snd your food at the bar--and you don't tip. Most restaurants add a service charge to the bill and there should be a statement in writing saying so. In that case, no tip is expected. Otherwise, tip 10-15%.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 07/27/2006
Lake Geneva in mid-November ???
For Lake Geneva, we are based in both Lausanne and Montreux.
Lausanne for exploring the city and the Lake Geneva vineyards. Montreux for visiting Chillon Castle and boarding Golden Pass Line.
1) Any vieyard town that we can visit in mid-November? We thought of visiting Chexbres, Morges and Vevey. Any advice on this?
2) Is the Lake Geneva steamer service still available in mid-November? We thought of accessing Chillon Castle by boat. Any advice on this?
Bernard <email>
Singapore, SGP Singapore Thu 07/27/2006
Re: Water in UK Restaurants
Tap water is free, bottled water is not.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 07/27/2006
Morocco vs. Spain
I'd spend four or five days in Barcelona, but Madrid and the rest of Spain could be put off for a five day trip to Morocco. Just MHO, but what do I know?
USA Thu 07/27/2006
Need to get to Paris from Berlin 7/29-31
According to expedia.com you can fly roundtrip on those dates for only $200 via Swiss Air. Connecting in Zurich and arriving at Tempelhof. $200 is a good deal, especially at the last minute.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Thu 07/27/2006
Water in U.K. Restaurants
I am planning my dream trip to the U.K., leaving in late August for 3 weeks. I have two friends who insist that when you order water (tap, not bottled) at meals in the U.K. you are charged for it. Is this correct? If you're charged anyway, do most of you go ahead and order bottled water? Is there anything else that's so different from the way we do things in restaurants in the U.S. that I should expect before going?
Marian Jones <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Thu 07/27/2006
Lake Como or the Dolomites?
I want to make the best use of my time on my Italian vacation -- I will be in Rome seven days and then I have rented a villa in Bosco Chiesanuova, Verona for another week. At the end of the trip I have three days before I have to fly home. Would you go to Lake Como or the Dolomites or somewhere else? Any suggestions about places to stay? Thanks.
Brenda Mantz <email>
Washington, DC USA Thu 07/27/2006
For Dennis too
Greetings
It does sound wonderful...wish I could just up and do that :o)
But, realistically you need to research visa restrictions carefully - you're only allowed to stay in the Schengen area (most of continental Europe) for a total of three months before leaving and having to say outwith for a period of months. You may be able to extend that to 6 months, but a year is going to be very difficult unless you have an EU passport.
And to ensure that you don't have problems at borders, you should research financial and medical insurance requirements. You'll need to convince the immigrations folks that you have the money to pay for all expenses and medical care for the year.
But, I think some careful planning should help to overcome these issues - have fun!!
Kate
Kate
Scotland Thu 07/27/2006
Scenic Europe
I've just returned from Italy with my sister. We visited museums and art galleries etc. and had a ball!
Now I need to organize a trip with my husband for next May. He does not enjoy museums and art galleries but prefers scenery. I am reluctant to settle for a bus tour and would like advice please on travelling from Paris and ending at Lake Como, Italy travelling through
the best scenery to get there. Would taking the train be better than a tour??
Thanks so much,
Joy
Joy <email>
Tampa, FL USA Thu 07/27/2006
Alma Domus Reservations
Emily, We stayed at Alma Domus in June 2004. I called the phone number in the guidebook and asked in Italian if they spoke English. They told me to call back the next day, "domani" (and someone would be there who spoke English). I did that and was able to make the reservation. At the time I used a discount long distance carrier and made multiple phone calls organizing our trip that year for 3 cents a minute. I dialed:
10-10-297 + 011 + country code + city code + the number
A lot of dialing but it did work. The phone company has a toll free number if you want to contact them and see if this still exists. 1-800-583-1879
Another option is to get what you want to say translated to Italian and say it in Italian when you call. To do this go to www.freetranslation.com.
On the right side of the screen click on the drop down box and select English to Italian. Type in your text. Click on the "free translation: box below it and it will translate it for you! Waa-laa! Hope some of this helps.
Diane <email>
Fort Worth, TX USA Thu 07/27/2006
Re: Morocco - Tangiers
Yes definately go to Morocco!! Its a wonderful country and an experience not to be missed!
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Thu 07/27/2006
Need to get to Paris from Berlin 7/29-31
Trying to make my way last minute to Paris (Soissons) to visit a friend this coming weekend. Trains and planes are expensive, looking for rideshares but not much luck. Can anyone offer any leads on affordable travel options?
Anthony <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Thu 07/27/2006
RE: Morocco/Spain Question
We did a one-day Tangier tour this spring from Tarifa, and found it fascinating...I'd love to go back for a couple of days on our own, now that we've got a feel for the place. It's a busy day with most tours, but worth it to see the place. If you've already got destinations like Sevilla, Granada, Toledo, Rhonda, the white villages, etc, on your itinerary, then spend a day going to Tangiers.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Thu 07/27/2006
All Saints Day in France
Will be in the Loire Valley on All Saints Day ,Nov 1, a holiday in France. Does anyone know if this will affect our travel (trains and places to stay booked up)? Thanks, SPR
SPR <email>
AL. USA Thu 07/27/2006
Switzerland in Mid-November ???
Mid-November is indeed low-season in Switzerland. But that should not deter you from traveling there. Most all of the big attractions will still be open. For example, in the Interlaken region you will still be able go to the top of Jungfrau (schiltorn is closed in Nov.), and do most all of the hiking trails Ricks suggests in his guidebook. But lodging in the small mountain villages can be a problem as some will close during November and won't open up until the skiing season starts up in January; in addition restaurants and grocery stores in the villages will be closed as well. But the larger towns like Interlaken will be in full operation with all stores and hotels open(with significantly lower rates). I can't think of a more relaxing, peaceful, and stress-free vaction as Switzerland off-season. Go For it!
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Thu 07/27/2006
Bernard & Priscilla
You will get much more information if you post this question in the Switzerland forum at www.tripadvisor.com
Tim
USA Thu 07/27/2006
Switzerland in Mid-November ???
Hi,
We were kind of confused because our friends told us that Switzerland is pretty much dead except the big cities you mentioned.
We basically targetting Berner Oberland, Zurich, Lucerne, Montreux, Lausanne, Lake Geneva vineyards, Bernina Valley region, Rhinefall, Vaduz, Zermatt, Appenzell & Santis, Ebenalp, Murten and Lugano for about 2 weeks in mid November for our wedding honeymoon.
We heard that Berner Oberland is dead when it comes to November. We will like to visit Gimmelwald, Jungfraujoch and Lauterbrunnen Valley. We also heard that Schilthornbahn is closed in November so Schilthorn is closed too?
As for Lake Geneva, we will like to visit Montreux, Lausanne and the Lake Geneva's vineyard like Chexbres, Vevey, Morges. Is this place good for November?
We will also like to visit the Bernina area like St. Moritz, Pontresina and Samedan but heard that November is their off-season, so wondering is this good for November?
Heard Zermatt is expensive and November's weather may not be good for Matterhorn viewing.
We really need advice in our planning and we are intending to buy Swiss Pass for our travelling.
Thanks,
Bernard & Priscilla
Bernard & Priscilla <email>
Singapore, SGP Singapore Wed 07/26/2006
Quick look at Amsterdam
My husband and I will be traveling to Copenhagen on December 20. We will arrive at Amsterdam airport on dec. 21 at 11:05 am and depart at 3:15 pm. Will we have enough time to take a quick look at Amsterdam? Any suggestions
Jonna Cearley <email>
Bella Vista, Ar USA Wed 07/26/2006
Morrocco/Spain Question
Has anyone gone on a one day tour of Tangier Morocco from Tarifa Spain? I was wondering if it were a good way to spend the day, or if my wife and I would be better off spending an extra day or two in some of the larger cities of Spain.
brian
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Why a fake?
Several posters have questioned why anybody would buy a fake designer purse in Italy and not the real thing..... Well, fake Luis Vuitton purses are about $20 and real Luis Vuitton purses start at $800. People are happy to use the fake ones until they break or they get sick of them. My friend's wealthy aunt bought her a real Luis Vuitton purse in Rome 10 years ago, and she feels that she can never throw it away.
Karen
MN USA Wed 07/26/2006
Double Stroller
Check out B.O.B strollers, they are very agile, sturdy and fold into a little pack. I checked their website, they have double strollers, just google bob stroller and it will pop right up! I'm not a mom but my friend who has one raves about hers so much that it makes me want one, even though I don't have kids!
Katharine
Seattle, WA USA Wed 07/26/2006
For Dennis
Your dream sounds amazing and I'll bet everyone here will agree you should go for it! But- there's a lot more to think about than avoiding scams- most importantly, the Visa requirement(s) and your realistic finances. It's hard to tell from your post whether you are intending this as a spur of the moment action or are going to spend some months researching and getting everything in order. The latter will keep your dream from becoming a nightmare! Lastly, as a 50+ person myself, I would strongly suggest investigating some kind of volunteer option that would give further structure and meaning to the year- either several shorter ones or a longer- term placement. Or- you're never too old to be a student, either! Best wishes and go for it!
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Tour trip to Ireland
Hi all. A friend and I are looking at taking Rick's tour of Ireland in 2007. Has anyone taken this tour? If so, would you mind sharing your thoughts and feedback on the tour?
Or, does anyone have another suggestion for a tour of Ireland?
Thanks y'all!
Heather <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 07/26/2006
Insurance
Courtney~~national insurance is health insurance not car insurance.
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Dennis - Crazy?
I love your idea! I don't think it is crazy at all - rather, adventuresome, free-spirited, and tons of fun. I wish I could do that. Happy travels!!!
Chicago, USA Wed 07/26/2006
Cost of meals
Giselle~~If you and your sister are staying where breakfast is encluded, then you probably could eat for $40.00 dollars a day (20 British Pounds). But of course it will depend what size of meals you want. You can get a good meal
in pubs and they usually are from 6-12BP. We usually eat a good breakfast then if we get hungrey mid day we just get something small, then we get a nice meal in the evening. My husband loves eating pubs. Have a great trip.
USA Wed 07/26/2006
OPERETTA -DINNER CRUISE -BUDAPEST
Has anyone taken the "Operetta Cruise Dinner Boat" on the Danube in Budapest.
Apparently a performance of opera selections in costume by Hungarian State Opera singers is combined with a buffet dinner. They are asking 65.00.
If you have attended - is it worth 65.00 ??? Thanks for any feedback.
John <email>
Menlo Park , CA USA Wed 07/26/2006
Best Double stroller for travel & beyond
Hi. I will be travelling to London this coming fall with 2 kids - an almost 3 year old and a 1 year old for about a week. Any recommendations for a good, agile, double stroller?
Vibha
Redmond, WA USA Wed 07/26/2006
For Elaine- global warming and our trips!
Europe is being impacted- as we are beginning to be also- by increasingly high temperatures. It was swelteringly hot in Italy and Greece both recent summers I vacationed there- I have no choice but to go in summer due to work schedules. Both times we did lots of active hiking, biking, etc- but you have to make it a priority and organize the day around that so you can go very, very early in the day. What I found worked was to alternate a day or two of museums and city sightseeing with a day of outdoor activity. I think attitude is everything, too. As I sweated on the hike down through the Samaria Gorge on Crete in August, and soaked my bandana at a small spigot at the halfway point, surrounded by French and German hikers, I was thinking that I could also be sweating at home in my yard! I would far rather be hot and sweaty in Europe!
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Am I Crazy?
I have this idea that I want to fly to Europe and buy a used RV type vehicle and cruise around for a full year. I have help in Germany in finding the RV.
I have never been out of the US and Canada. 63 year old man. Is this crazy?
I've been reading all the scams and think I can deal with them.
Thanks
Dennis <email>
Mobile, AL USA Wed 07/26/2006
Fake Purses
We were in Italy last year and were advised that the fines for BUYING fake patented items went as high as 10,000 euros. In Venice we saw a squad of policemen - they were not like the regular police and obviously on a raid - going through the crowds and questioning visitors and manhandling the sellers. We assume the vendors were arrested, though some were protesting and showing the police paperwork. I do not know what happened to the tourists.
I would not risk it - why do you want a fake anyway?
Iain
Edmonton, AB Canada Wed 07/26/2006
Frankfurt Connection
Melissa: If your United flight connects to a Lufthansa flight in Frankfurt, 1.5 hours should be OK. Both airlines are part of the Star Alliance, so you can get boarding passes for both flights at Dulles and luggage can be checked through to Athens. I've done US Airways (also Star Alliance)/Lufthansa connections in Frankfurt, and they've gone smoothly. There are now fewer security checks in the airport, as long as you stay within the transit area. Watch for a transfer desk along the hallway, and ask them for directions to your Athens gate. If United does not code share with your airline to Greece, 1.5 hours will be very tight.
Frank
Wilmington, DE USA Wed 07/26/2006
Advice on London food costs.
My younger sister and I will be traveling to England (about 9 days--mostly in London). Any estimates on how much we should expect to spend each day on meals? We want to be comfortable, but don't need anything too extravagant (maybe one or two nicer places). All your feedback will be very helpful! I haven't been to London since I as 12 or so, so I have no idea what to expect in terms of cost.
Giselle <email>
Cambridge, MA USA Wed 07/26/2006
Fake purses
I wouldn't chance it buying the fake purses, when I was there last year on a RS tour, we were told by our guide (who is native Italian) that the fines can be as much as $3000-$5000 - not something I would want to risk for a $25 fake purse that will probably fall apart 2 days after you buy it. Save yourself $2500 and buy a real one when you get home!
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Fake designer purses
"I have purchased fakes all through Europe."
WHY?
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Frankfurt connection times
Go to www.airportcity-frankfurt.com. There they have current flight arrivals and current flight departures. They don't have them for the entire day, just the next few hours (their time). You might have to check the listings at midnight to find your flight. It should show the concourse (A-E). If your flight comes in on A and out on A, it should be easy. Like I said, we came in on A and out on B and it was hectic in an hour.
When I flew through Frankfurt, I tracked the actual arrival times for a month, checking them late at night or early morning. Sometimes the flight was late, some times it was early. Anyway, I made it; I'm here, what can I say?
<email>
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Fake designer purses
I have purchased fakes all through Europe. The vendors are the ones who have been fined, if the police catch them. I have only seen one vendor get "caught" and it was in NYC, and who knows what happened to him? Go for it.
Jodi
La Jolla, CA USA Wed 07/26/2006
Fake designer purses-Italy-Fines?
Just returned from Rome. The vendors that sell the fake purses are located at every major sightseeing destination. When they see the police, the pick up their wearson blankets, with once quick scoop. We have purchased many purses. No fines.
Jeff
NJ USA Wed 07/26/2006
Credit Card scam
You all may be interested in keeping an eye on this. A story from AFP says "Visa and MasterCard agreed to pay a total of 336 million dollars to settle a class-action lawsuit alleging the credit card firms shortchanged US consumers in foreign currency transactions. Details of the settlement were to be released when filed with the court." The case is in New York.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Wed 07/26/2006
Frankfurt airport connection
A few years ago, I made a connection at FRA coming from Munich and going to Denver in about an hour. We came into concourse A and left from concourse B. As I remember, it was hectic; we had to hustle. He went through security twice.
My biggest concern would be if your incoming flight is really late. But, if your flight was booked all the way with one ticket, the airline should accommodate any late connections.
<email>
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Frankfurt airport connection times
I am connecting through Frankfurt next May on a flight from Dulles to Athens. Does anyone know if an hour and 1/2 is enough time? Per United, the 'legal' time is 45 mintues. Thanks!
Melissa
Denver, CO USA Wed 07/26/2006
Mont St Michel- Tours/Amboise
Thanks for your help, Connie. We don't want to drive on this trip, so will have to take the trains I guess!
Stacey
UK Wed 07/26/2006
Loire Valley
This place is in Amboise but we loved it....it is one of those special places that you would never forget if you stayed there...
http://www.chateaudesormeaux.fr/
bluedenim
canada Wed 07/26/2006
B&B Loire Valley
My husband and I will be in the Loire Valley the first week in November. First stop is Le Mans then on to see the castles. Looking for a budget B&B in the area. Any suggestions? SPR
Susan <email>
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Tracy - hotel reservations
We were in the Cinque Terre about the same time you are traveling (our trip was 3 years ago) We needed a hotel for Genoa before our flight out.
Stopped at a travel agency (there are lots of them in small towns, easy to find, or ask a local) They were extremely helpful - finding us a couple of rooms for the next night. Told them our budget, and they booked a really nice hotel, easy access to the train station and beautiful rooms!
you should be fine the time of year you are going - without doing the never ending internet search for a hotel, not knowing what you are getting until you get there!
So....the day before you plan to travel to the next town, find a travel agency and go in! you might even book a couple of hotels at a time, leaving your travel plans "open" for changes, but with enough confidence that you know you have a place to lay your head for a few nights!
<email>
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Lodging Augsburg Germany area
We may need lodging in the Augsburg area in Oct.Rick doesnt cover this in his book.Does anyone have any suggestions?B&Bs or small hotels.thanks you
jack <email>
Sheboygan, wi USA Wed 07/26/2006
Visiting Chester
I think you would enjoy seeing Chester - it's one of the relatively few old cities that have survived the centuries fairly intact. It dates back from the Roman times, and you can see remnants of Roman artifacts and a Roman era ampitheatre. The old city wall has been renovated so you can walk completely around it, looking over both at the city and the River Dee. Chester Cathedral is worth a quick look, and even if you aren't into shopping it's worth peeking in the stores along the old streets as many of the buildings are up to five centuries old.
I would however, NOT drive through Chester - as the old streets are narrow and there's access to the old part only through breaks in the wall, it can be very congested. Plus some of the oldest streets are mainly pedestrian. Best to park in one of the lots on the edge of the old town and walk into it. I seem to remember that there are several parking structures - a map should show where these are...
Kate
Kate
Scotland Wed 07/26/2006
paris gems
- rodins- one of the best love the gardens
-jardins luxembourg
-canals
-Marais, wander around....check out Le Grizli amazing little restaurant
bluedenim
canada Wed 07/26/2006
Italy hotels
I will be going to Italy Oct 1st 06 for 3 weeks. I went 7 years ago and was able to book hotels as we left one city for the next. Is that possible now? I like the flexibility of not scheduling ahead. Does anyone have advice/experiences to share. Cities in this order;Venice,Florence,Cinque Terre,Siena ,Oriveito,Rome. Thanks
Tracy
Long Beach, Ca USA Wed 07/26/2006
Fake designer purses-Italy-Fines?
Regarding Africans selling fake designer purses (yes I've indulged), I've read that you're liable for a large fine if you buy fake designer purses in Italy. Does anybody know of an instance where this has actually happened?
Karen
MN USA Wed 07/26/2006
Alma Domus, Siena
I recently stayed at Alma Domus and I booked through Zefiro World. It costs a litle bit more but it was worth it. The web address is: www.buon-viaggio.com/english/villas/cities/siena.htm
Alma Domus is listed here as Villa Domenico. Don't forget there is an 11.30pm curfew which is a bit of a pest, but other than that the place was great.
Kathy Ferguson
Inverness, Scotland Wed 07/26/2006
Mont St. Michel
The best way to experience Mont St. Michel is to reserve early and spend the night. The hordes of tourists leave and you have the mont to yourselves. Get up early and photograph sunrise on the water. A little pricey, but you'll never forget it.
Linda
Huntsville, AL USA Wed 07/26/2006
Accident in Germany
Unfortunately we had to train out of Germany the same day as our minor fender bender, so we have not been able to get definitive answers to who covers the damages on the other woman's car (ours is fully covered through our credit card but my credit card covers our car only, not hers). We've even tried calling the other woman's house from the number on the accident report but no one has answered the phone yet.
The vibe we're getting here is that in Germany all you cover is your own car. Is this possibly a national insurance standard?? Our next car we get in Austria through Europcar, and I looked through their paperwork and the rental includes mandatory liability insurance on other ppls vehichles and medical expenses. For this reason we spoke to Europcar in the train station in Germany to find out if it is the same coverage in Germany also. They said it is not. We were told there is no liability because all you need in Germany is CDW and that you cannot buy a liability add-on from them in Germany. We were told the coverage is different in Austria because the laws are different there. She did not speak good english, but that is what she said.
Does anyone know anything about the liability laws in Germany?
Courtney <email>
USA Wed 07/26/2006
Deleted Post
This is just a comment about the previous posts, posted by Julio who spoke about the african who was being chased by police for pickpocketing. Tim responded to this thinking it was a racial slur.
I just wanted to say I just returned from Florence and experienced the same things as Julio, I saw few gypsies, but I did see many african young men ripping off tourists. Many sold fake purses and sun glasses or other items. I also witnessed many people arressted for theft. These men were quite frightening, as a strong female I feel nothing can shake me, but these guys would yell rude and condesending things at me and i was even followed by one for over 2 blocks. This has become a huge problem in Florence even more so than gypsies. This is not a racial problem but a saftey issue. As a minority myself, i know what it feels like to be judged. I just want to warn people to always be on guard, as tourists we are all targets!
Canada Tue 07/25/2006
Paris.....
Erika..One of our favorite things to do in Paris is go to the Luxembourg Gardens, and especially to sit and watch the Parisians play Petancque (AKA Bocce ball). They play in the petancque courts by the large children's playground which is closest to the rue Vavin entrance to the park. You get to see real Parisians interacting with each other and having a good time together. It's the best. We also love the bridge behind Notre Dame connecting to Ile St. Louis like a previous poster said, but also in front of Notre Dame at night there is lots of fun entertainment... fire jugglers, musicians, roller-bladers jumping over 10' high barriers, etc. Our favorite cafe in all of Paris is just on the other side of the little bridge behind Notre Dame on Ile St. Louis called "La Flore en L'Ile"... great food, great view, great people-watching. We just got back and loved every minute!
USA Tue 07/25/2006
WARNING: POWER CONVERTER WILL RUIN YOUR ELECTRONICS
Never use a 1600 watt power converter for an electronic device like an IPOD! This converter is intended only for high wattage devices like hair dryers and produces a wave form that can damage low wattage devices. If your device is 100-240 VAC (which an IPOD is) you don't need a converter, only a plug adapter.
USA Tue 07/25/2006
Mont St. Michel
The best advice that we got was to be there EARLY, beat the crowd, park close. When we came out there were crowds all over, both roads were packed and parking was way out. I have heard that some people wait a long time to just get in to park let alone make the hike.
Bob
WA USA Tue 07/25/2006
Paris In The Fall
Favorite picnic spots: The Tuileries Gardens are always beautiful, between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde. I love to perch on a wall on the bank of the Seine. My favorite is the Esplanade des Invalides, a park between les Invalides and the Seine. It is great people-watching, with Parisiens at play, from elderly gentlemen playing boules to children with kites.
Magic moments: In the early evening (especially on weekends,) various musicians play on the bridge between the Ile de la Cite and the Ile St. Louis. I've heard everything from a string quartet to a New Orleans style jazz band. With the sunset, the Seine, and Notre Dame for scenery, you can't beat this.
In the guidebooks, but under-appreciated: the Rodin Museum (particularly the garden.)
Unknown gem: Museum of the Order of the Liberation, in les Invalides. It is a simple, tiny museum dedicated to people who were awarded the Cross of the Liberation, the most prestigious French WWII decoration. There are three corridors with simple glass cases, filled with various items, from a radio in a soup can to sketches of concentration camp life, drawn by deportees with pencil on scraps of paper. Both facinating and extremely moving.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Tue 07/25/2006
Deleted Post
Tim, My comment was not racist at all. The person I saw was black and African and is the same as if I had said it was a gipsy. Nothing racist about this and I'm sure this person is proud to be called African.
Julio
Miami, Fl USA Tue 07/25/2006
Re: Need Help Fast
To simplify things, and since both of your items are low power (Not a hair dryer) go to Radio Shack(www.radioshack.com) and get a European Power Converter...Model 273-1404. It is a 1600 watt model, so it may even run your hair dryer. That will plug in anywhere, except the UK, that has the two round prongs; and even if your items are dual voltage or not, won't matter. For the UK, you would then need an additional adapter to go from the two round pins (see the picture on the radio shack website), to the three flat prongs of the UK outlet. Radio Shack sells a kit for $15.00, but realistically, you can buy one in any airport or train station gift shop in the UK for a couple bucks.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 07/25/2006
Erika - A Paris Niche
One of the best strolls my husband and I took was to the "Parc Georges Brassens" in Paris where there's not a tourist in sight. It was about a 20-30 min. walk from Montparnasse, where we stayed that time.
We enjoyed the unexpected classical music being played by a band, huge used/antique book sale, community garden and children/families spending an early evening at the playground. Spending time there really made us feel like a local Parisian....for a moment in time you forget you're a tourist yourself.
Elaine
Canada Tue 07/25/2006
Yikes! Heat Wave in Europe
Just wondering what if anyone's just come back from Europe and how the heat wave is affecting travel there. Has anyone heard of any relief on its way?
I'll be leaving for Austria monday and in Eastern Europe for 3 weeks...I'm dreading the thought of a spoiled trip because of unbearable heat. Especially because I'd like to make this trip an active one (hiking, canoeing, biking).
Elaine
Canada Tue 07/25/2006
Re: I Need Fast Help
You'll need two plug adaptors, one for the Uk and one for the continent. Radio Shack carries them.
Check the owner's manual for your zen and your camera. If they are dual voltage (110/220), you're fine. If they're not, you'll need a voltage converter. See www.voltagevalet.com for helpful information.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 07/25/2006
Re: Reservation
Adding to Norm's comments. PREM'S (discount) tickets are sold for bunks in six-person couchettes as well as for reclining seats on the night train on sncf.com. Click on "Placement" to see your seating choices. I plugged in an arbitrary date (20 September) and found a couchettte PREM'S for E50. This is cheaper than the regular fare for a day train, you save the cost of a night in a hotel, and you have more daylight hours for sightseeing.
You can print your own PREM'S. Leave France as the default country and do NOT choose cancellation insurance or you won't be allowed to print the tickets.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 07/25/2006
I Need FAST Help
I'm going to England and France in a week. I plan on taking a zen (like an ipod) and a digital camera both have lithium ion batteries and will need to be charged sooner or later. Concerning plug adapters and power converters, what do I need to take with me?
Mariah
IL USA Tue 07/25/2006
Re:reservation
If you're speaking of the 8:52 am train from Paris Est to Frankfurt (train #57) then, no, a reservation is not compulsory. But the SNCF site recommends that a reservation be made, just to make sure. If you're interested, and haven't purchased your ticket yet. there are still some PREMS tickets at about half the regular price for the overnight train to Frankfurt....if you don't mid sleeping sitting up. You may even find some daytime price breaks, depending on the exact day you're travelling...just be aware of the restrictions on these tickets.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Tue 07/25/2006
reservation
travelling from paris to frankfurt in late september on the 8:52 ec train do i require a reservation?
anxious
USA Tue 07/25/2006
Ericka
It had been 5 years since I had been in Paris and I still dreamt about a meal we had on Rue la Bourdannais (near Rue Cler area). It is called Sud Ouest and it has the most amazing food. When we were there this past June, I (again) had the Confit de Canard and my husband had the Cassoulet. The prices are reasonable and we WILL go back again and again - when we have the good fortune of going back to Paris.
BTW - this last time we didn't "do" all the sites. We wandered where our feet took us and ended up at Champs du Mar often in the evening to see the sparkling Tour Eiffel with a bottle of wine. We had the best time - especially when the sprinklers came on (at 10:30 PM) and everyone had to scramble.
Connie <email>
USA Tue 07/25/2006
Hotel in Prague
Has anyone stayed at a more upscale (than Rick's picks) hotel in Prague? Worried about the heat and considering choosing a place with a/c. Any suggestions?
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Tue 07/25/2006
Mont St Michel/Tours/Amboise
You can take a bus to Rennes then take a train from Rennes to Tours (you change trains in Lemans) but it takes longer than taking the bus to Rennes then the train to Montparnasse then to Tours. You might consider driving since it will only take you 3 hours or so to get from the coastal areas to Tours. Check out Viamichelin.
We have driven in France and it's not bad...we'd do it again. You just have to get used to the roundabouts and the motorbikes who don't obey traffic laws.
Connie <email>
USA Tue 07/25/2006
help
has anyone been to mont st. michel? Any suggestions as to where to park, eat, sleep and activites to do?
wi USA Tue 07/25/2006
Mont St. Michel to Tours/Amboise
Hi,
I want to go from Mont St. Michel to Tours or Amboise. According to the SNCF website, it seems that the only way is to go back to Paris, then go out again.
Is there a more direct route in between these two areas, by bus or by train?
Thanks
Stacey
London, UK Tue 07/25/2006
Anne-Marie Italy Trip
I just got back from Italy. I took a morning Eurostar Train from Florence to Naples, took a tram from the train station to the port, and a boat from the port to Sorrento. The boat trip was on Metro Mare and took about 30 minutes and cost about 4 or 5 Euros. It was a lovely boat trip and a good introduction to Sorrento, which is a wonderful city!
Jan
USA Tue 07/25/2006
Erika
The last time I was Paris I ate at a wonderful Italian restaurant. The Parisians sitting around us asked how we knew to go there. We didn't, we just happened to decide to eat there. It is called Da Pietro and it is near St. Sulpice.
In the Marais there are two places not to be missed. They are both on the Rue Rosiers. One is actually in the Lonely Planet guidebook. I don't know the name of it but supposedly Lenny Kravitz says they have the best falafel, and he might be right! Across the street is a wonderful pastry shop. Can't remember the name, Jewish sounding, and the outside is yellow.
Doberry
MS USA Tue 07/25/2006
Re: Paris in the Fall
I'll give you two. A year ago in June my wife and I and our adult daughter stayed at the Fourcy MIJE hostel one block from the St-Paul metro station in the Marais. Just a few blocks east of the station we spotted a bar that was open early and served breakfast. It's located at the corner of rue Saint-Antoine and rue Saint-Paul and Paul is part of its name. (I can't remember the exact name.) Besides the usual continental fare of baguettes and croissants, they also served scrambled eggs. The croissants were as good or better than any we found at a patisserie. Even though the hostel served a free continental breakfast, we kept going back to the cafe.
We went to the Musee du Luxembourg to view a special Matisse exhibition. As we were walking along the perimeter of the Jardin du Luxembourg on rue de Vaugirard, we saw a series of very large photographs on display on the fence. They turned out to be an exhibition by Photographers without Borders and featured scenes from around the world of people dealing with both joy and sorrow. We lingered over each one and were moved to tears. So were many people around us. Judging by the way the photographs were mounted and lighted, I think the area is used regularly for exhibitions. Something will probably be on display when you're in Paris.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 07/25/2006
Re: Anne-Marie; Italy
Given that time is not an issue, and that cost is not at least much of an issue, then driving is not a bad option. I would question driving within Rome, and driving anywhere on the Amalfi coast at this time of the year may be too much. If you could pick up the car in Florence, and drop off in Salerno (Avoiding both Rome and Naples) then it might be a great time. Tuscany for sure would be optimal for Driving, I am not sure of the area from Rome to the Naples Area, if it would be worth a car over train. Given that, maybe just a day or two of rental, getting a car in Florence and returning it to Florence, then train from Florence to Naples would be an option, and more economical.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 07/25/2006
Paris in the Fall
So, am I to assume there is NOTHING to see/do/experience in Paris that is not listed in a guide book???? Seriously? Come on people, help me out here, what are your favorite little niches in Paris? That great mom and pop restaurant you stumbled upon? That quite place for a picnic with the spectacular view? That cute little shop down the street from...? You know what I'm looking for, the real "back door" stuff! I am taking my RS Paris book and plan to see/do/experience all that is listed there, but I'd like to see other things too...I promise to post things *I* find on this forum when I return! :)
Erika
Edmonds, WA USA Tue 07/25/2006
Adapter/Converter
You will need a converter if your appliances are not dual voltage. (Check your hairdryer for two numbers, 110/220 - if you have that you're fine, if not, you'll blow it up if you try to plug it in in Europe). You won't need one for your iPod, they are dual voltage. Take a battery powered alarm clock! (smaller/lighter to pack). The adapter is to change the plug to fit in their outlets so you will need that. Hope that helps!
USA Tue 07/25/2006
October Honeymoon
My fiance and I are planning a honeymoon for October 15-28. We were originally thinking of a trip to Paris, but we're concerned the chance of rain will be high then. (We live in the Pacific Northwest, so we get enough clouds and drizzle at home!) Now we're also considering Greece, or possibly Italy, but I understand even Greece starts to get rainy by the end of October. Any suggestions for interesting locations with a strong chance of decent weather that time of year?
Bellevue, WA USA Tue 07/25/2006
Deleted post
My recent post asking "Julio" how he could tell that the pickpocket being chased by police was an African..has been deleted. I guess it's inappropriate to point out someone's racist comments, but it's OK to actually POST a racist comment??? Go figure...
Tim
USA Tue 07/25/2006
Adaptors/Converters
I was checking to see if i needed to purchase both an adaptor and converter or if one or the other would be enough, I'm traveling for two weeks throughout France the Netherlands and Italy and then i am going to be living in spain for about 3 months. I would like to bring my ipod and maybe a hair dryer and alarm clock and was hoping someone could help me with this decision, and also if a travel hairdryer is worth getting
V <email>
Portland, OR USA Tue 07/25/2006
Tipping porters
In my experience no one has EVER said no to a tip or been ungrateful for a tip. If you have great service or someone goes out of their way to help you a 1 or 2 euro coin is always in order and greatly appreciated.
My first trip to Italy there was a train employee who helped us board a small train to Pompeii when no else spoke English. He even showed us our seat. I gave him a 2euro coin and he was more than happy to accept. Same with restaurant service, hotel service etc. When service is included its 12%. I tip 20% back home so we always give a bit more for great service.
Lisa <email>
San Diego, CA USA Tue 07/25/2006
Car accident question
Courtney, go to fodors.com and post your question on the website under Germany. Recently a German native posted there that, by German law, the rental car company has to carry liability insurance for you.
And.. next time, take the train!
USA Tue 07/25/2006
This site is almost perfect--for me
While I used to enjoy the old format of the guidebook feedback which ended up being a kind of a "country forum," I enjoy this helpline forum--as is. I've gotten and given lots of advice. I received a wonderful hotel recommendation from Rick in Chicago for my Krakow trip, and from somebody else I received a link to the StayPoland website where I found my other hotels.
I use Tripadvisor for information on specific hotels, but many of their posters have a more generous budget than I do. They often seem to go to a budget hotel and then complain that it doesn't have the amenities that they are used to. Foders has a good forum too, but the information is too specific for the "recreational travel reader."
I read this forum most everyday--along with my other favorite internet spots: DailyKos, New York Times, CommonDreams, etc. This forum gives me ideas for other trips. Harvey's postings have convinced me that I must visit France someday. This forum is good for what it is.
Although some of my postings have been edited, I have no problem with that. I write as I think and that's not always best. Unedited postings can be dreadful..and strange postings seem to encourage more strange postings.
Karen <email>
MN USA Tue 07/25/2006
Pick pockets Pisa & Florence
Beware of pickpockets in Pisa and Florence. Just got back from Italy and we had a lady pickpocketed in Pisa where you wait for the bus to get to the tour bus. She was distracted by a vendor selling something and she got into an argument with her and they open her big handbag and took out the little one with 1,200 Euros, credit cards and passport. Of course she was not informed and did not take prevention. I had my wife bring a smaller hand bag over the shoulder and kept in front of her and nothing happened to us. In Florence I saw a Carabiniere policemen chase an African running with a wallet right in front of us. If you keep your valuables in from of you all the time or use a money belt you wouldn't have these unfortunate experience. We had a wonderful time in Italy, event though it was like a boot camp as we covered 12 different cities/sites in 8 days. Lots of walking and climbing but worth it. Capri was the highlight of the trip after getting saturated with too many churches and wall painting. Wish to go back spend more time in Rome and Capri and perhaps the Amalfi Coast.
Julio <email>
Miami, Fl USA Tue 07/25/2006
Car accident question
Ok all the paperwork has been filled out and my credit card says we are covered for the full value of the car (we think at best there is $300 damage to the car-one light and one bumper cover) Course we all know how they figure these things...could be more than we think, however we were told credit card covers OUR car only and that we would have to get a supplement (sounds like not through credit card but elsewhere) to cover the rest....where do we get such a supplement?? We were cut off before they told me anything although since it is not from them they likely do not know much. Does anyone know what we need to do when we pick up our next car in August to be sure we are covered?
The car we hit has MUCH less damage than our car-almost none. But is a light and possible bumper cover. Naturally it is on a BMW station wagon!! And we are told we are not covered at all. Suggestions anyone??
Thanks for the calming words to those of you who emailed :) Munich has been a complete dreadful disaster--too bad we've seen nothing ;(
Courtney <email>
USA Tue 07/25/2006
Beth - guide books
Beth, to keep traveling light, go to the internet, find the info you need for the cities you plan to visit, and print the info out. www.initaly.com is a good one to zero in on specific cities. Google Venice, Italy and see what you come up with.
Buying Rick's country guides are good if you are spending the entire time in one country, but if just going to a few cities, save your money and print from your computer.
READ READ READ, go the the library for guide books too, or just browse the local book store for info, then hit the internet for printed pages to take with you.
USA Tue 07/25/2006
no quick way from LHR to LGW
3 hours is NOT enough time to get from London Heathrow (LHR) to Gatwick (LGW) even in the best of traffic times. Even if you know your way around, it's cutting it too close. Sorry.
Shirley
Ft Worth, TX USA Tue 07/25/2006
Easter Sunday/Monday in Prague
This Easter we'll be in Prague and I would like to know if there are any festivals or traditional happenings that we should know of (other than attending church), or any that you recommend. I've looked on the sites under 'Festivals in Eastern Europe' for this information but I had no luck.
Tonya
USA Tue 07/25/2006
to buy or not to buy extra guidebooks...
I'm going to visit Europe for 3 weeks next April and I'm planning on spending 3 days each in Venice and Rome. Should I buy Rick's Italy guidebook or his separate city books? I plan on seeing the usual tourist sites since it will be my first time to go and the short time spent there. I appreciate any ideas. Thanks
Beth
USA Tue 07/25/2006
Car Fender Bender--PANICKED!
We're in Germany and our insurance is provided by our platnium card. It is after 11am here but only just after 5am at home and we can't reach the insurance office for our credit card. We turn in the car at noon here in Munich. It was a minor car accident..we rear-ended a woman who stopped suddenly, there has been a police report and we paid a small fine.
Can anyone tell us what to do? Do we just go to the Budget rental office and wait 3 hours until the office opens at home. We are so upset we can't stop shaking. Any suggestions appreciated
Courtney <email>
USA Tue 07/25/2006
creepy
tony and jason are wrong. There is no big brother or older brother or even a half brother. There is just a web master who is supposed to watch that the trolls stay under the bridge, the bete noir stays under the bed, and that no one calls a s.o.b a s.o.b. Got it mateys?
Carl Mannering
Swansea, UK Tue 07/25/2006
Chester
I spent a day in Chester a few years ago, on my way to N.Wales and Ireland. It was worth a visit; the central area is interesting and walkable. There are half-timbered buildings and Roman ruins.
Swan
USA Tue 07/25/2006
Ray - wallet contents
We travel with a bit of cash, a credit card and our passport. Leave the driver's license at home, it does us no good. the passport is our universal ID.
Medical information is good if you have a medical problem, but we leave our insurance cards at home too. We don't have any health issues so we don't bother with that.
We don't really even use a wallet. Just stuff the above items in a money belt or neck wallet - unless that's what you meant in your post...not a wallet you would stick in a pocket like in the US, but rather a money belt, etc.
The whole theory about traveling light includes all that extra stuff that finds it's way into our lives here at home....frequent buyer cards, etc.
I keep recepts of purchases to match up to my VISA bill when I return home, but these go in a "travel organizer" A larger zipped pocket that also keeps our airline tickets, any train tickets we purchased ahead of time, or other important travel documents.
All in all, your "do" list is excellent!
USA Mon 07/24/2006
BARBARA...CZECH REPUBLIC TRAVEL INSURANCE
Best way to find out is to do a google search for “Czech Republic Government Travel Requirements”
JAN W
CHICAGO, USA Mon 07/24/2006
ANN MARIE....LEAVE ON FRIDAY FOR ITALY
Your plan sounds OK until you get to that part about CASUALLY DRIVE BACK TO ROME.
If you read this column regularly you will see that no one drives in Rome.
Take the train back to Rome. Driving to Sorrento is OK.
USA Mon 07/24/2006
Chester in UK-Visit?
Any pro or cons about visiting Chester on our way to N. Wales? RS says it is only good for shopping, I prefer the sights.how long shall I stay or just drive thru and forget it?
thanks in advance.
J
JS
CA USA Mon 07/24/2006
moscow
Anyone know how to find clean, safe, centrally located but affordable - under 200 - hotel rooms in Moscow?
sunny
ny USA Mon 07/24/2006
Alma Domus, Siena,Italy
We want to reserve a room for 4 nights this fall at Alma Domus in Siena. We cannot reach them by e-mail, and they do not reply to faxed requests. If some one knows how to reach them, it would be appreciated.
Emily Swigert
Shelbyville,, KY USA Mon 07/24/2006
Getting from Heathrow to Gatwick Quickly
I'm going to change airports in London on my return trip from Italy in November. I'll be arriving at Heathrow and have to pick up my luggage, get to Gatwick, go back through security and check in. Any ideas for the quickest turn around time. I have 3 hours from touch down to take off but I figure at least 30 minutes to get my bags, a little over an hour by national express doesn't leave any cushion. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
TWalker <email>
lexington, nc USA Mon 07/24/2006
I LEAVE ON FRIDAY FOR ITALY AND NEED A LITTLE HELP!!!!!
Hello Fellow Travelers...So we leave for our first trip to Italy on Friday...arriving rome Saturday and I have been researching and reading but I need a few tips. Ok..We are staying 6 nights Rome, 3 nights Sorrento...On Tuesday I thought to do a long round trip-day trip to Florence and Friday take the train to Naples, boat to Sorrento...BUT, I am thinking, take the train to Florence Thursday, rent a car and casually drive back to Rome, pack up Friday and drive to Sorrento...we are not in a rush and if we decided to stay the night in a Siena on the way back, that is fine! I wantto have an amazing time with my boyfriend and I need a little direction with the renting a car bit. Yes or no??!!!!We will be driving back on Sunday afternoon to stay the night to come back on monday :) THANK YOU!!! Oh, how much cash/euros do i carry there and what should i pack and should not !!! Girls...shoes???
Ann-Marie <email>
PHOENIX, AZ USA Mon 07/24/2006
What Belongs In Your Wallet?
Under the theory that if you don’t bring it, a pick pocket can’t steal it:
Your wallet might contain:
1) A credit card and two ATM cards
2) Picture I.D. (Probably your drivers license)
3) Just enough $$$ to get you home from the airport upon your return to the U.S.
4) Whatever medical information you think is appropriate.
Your wallet should not contain:
1) Your checkbook
2) Membership cards (to Costco, the health club, the video store, AARP, AAA, local labor union or professional organizations, etc.)
3) Your Social Security card
4) Business cards and appointment reminder cards.
5) Pictures of the family, the key to your garage, your lucky two dollar bill, the coffee club punch card, etc. etc.
These things are valuable to you at home, but are of no use in Europe and would be difficult or impossible to replace. Leave them at home.
Agree / disagree?
What did I leave out? Suggestions and comments welcome.
Ray <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Mon 07/24/2006
I agree about the camera. Nikon CoolPix cameras are good too. Try for a 4X or even 5X (optical) zoom lens if you can find one at a good price.
USA Mon 07/24/2006
New Camera
I recommend the Canon Power Shot. It is a point and shoot but does have a good zoom lens on it. I have taken it to Europe twice and have great pictures of my travels.
USA Mon 07/24/2006
Re: London-Dublin & Dublin-Paris
If you'd like a leisurely trip, you can go from London to Dublin by train-ferry-train for a very reasonable fare. This page tells all about it: www.seat61.com/Ireland.htm.
London to Dublin on budget airlines: From Heathrow - BMI & Aer Lingus; From Gatwick - Ryanair; From Luton - Ryanair; From Stansted - Ryanair.
I've listed the airports according to their distance from London, closest to farthest. It takes time and a fair amount of expense to get to the outlying airports.
The route you see on bahn.de for Dublin to Paris involves taking the train-ferry-train to London and then the Eurostar train to Paris. Long, involved, and expensive.
Dublin-Paris on budget airlines: Aer Lingus to CDG. Ryanair to Beauvais (involves a 75-minute bus ride to Paris).
Sites: flybmi.com. aerlingus.com, ryanair.com.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 07/24/2006
Re: London to Dublin, Dublin to Paris
Ryanair's probably your best bet...the fastest (and probably the cheapest) for London-Dublin and Dublin-Paris....even though you'll land in Beauvais airport, a 75 minute bus ride from northwest Paris. Trains, with the ferry crossing, will take far too long and probably be prohibitively expensive. www.ryanair.com
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 07/24/2006
Czech Republic travel insurance
Is it a fact that travel insurance in now mandatory for visitors to the Czech Republic? If so, what are the (minimum) requirements or how do I go about finding out more?
Thanks!
Barbara <email>
Castro Valley, CA USA Mon 07/24/2006
London to Dublin, Dublin to Paris
What's the best way to get from London to Dublin then Dublin to Paris? Using the Deutsche Bahn website, they have routes to and from. But London locals are saying only to fly. What are some good suggestions?
Jenn
Oregon USA Mon 07/24/2006
New camera question - digital only
Thinking about upgrading my digital camera. Wanted to hear from some of you - what are you using and what do you like/dislike about the camera?
Don't want to go to heavy/large. We travel light, and that includes the camera. Want a great one that will fit in a purse.
Love a full size SLR, but we are touring, and taking snapshots, not a camera buff, but like good pictures.
I've read the reviews online, but I feel that actual users can give me a better guideline.
What brand? Which model do you like?
USA Mon 07/24/2006
Milan airport hotels
Can anyone recommend a cheaper (2 - 3 star) clean decent hotel near Milan airport (for a 60 year old couple ) that has a shuttle to airport?
mary
USA Mon 07/24/2006
Re: AMEX - Travelers Cheque Card
Read the terms and conditions for the card. If you have an AMEX card in US$ (the only way to go), the exchange rate for POS transactions is 2% over the interbank rate. Almost all banks are now charging 3% (1% network plus 2% currency conversion for themselves). For that part, you make out better with the AMEX card. Of course, it will cost you $15 for the card. If you load it with $1500, that is another 1%. In the past, I have generally charged only about $100 per trip on my credit card. For a $15 fee, that would be 15%, not a very good deal.
For an ATM transaction, the exchange rate is 2% over, you are charged $2.50 per transaction, and the withdrawal limit is $400 - less favorable than for most ATM cards. On the other hand, many big banks are now charging 3% plus a fee for ATM withdrawals.
Another thing to consider is that places and ATMs that accept the AMEX card are less common, although there are still a lot of them. If you know your itinerary, check the website and see if you will be able to find ATMs.
I guess a lot depends on your situation and your bank. I still find that cash from the one bank I use that still charges only 1% works best for me.
USA Mon 07/24/2006
RE: Alitalia seat assignments
According to Alitalia's website, "During the online purchasing procedure, you can give your preferences for seats for yourself (and for your travel companions, if required). " Since that obviously didn't happen, try contacting them directly to find out how you can get seat assignments.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 07/24/2006
provence
thanks for the help....
so if I do 2 nights in Nice
2 nights in Aix
2 nights in eitehr Nimes or Arles, to give us a good base to explire the area...would that work out well do you think?
paul
USA Mon 07/24/2006
Alitalia seat assignments
I recently purchased e-tickets on Alitalia for my family's travel to Italy this fall. Alitalia's website does not permit me to choose my seat assignments, though. We'd like to know that we can sit together, as my brother and I need to take care of our senior citizen father. Any tips?
Matt Anz <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Mon 07/24/2006
AMEX - Travelers Cheque Card
I'm thinking about using an AMEX prepaid card as my cash back-up to the other cc I am brining on my next trip.
Has anyone used this before and if so, do you recommend it? Are there high transaction fees?
<email>
MD USA Mon 07/24/2006
Hotel in Paris
Try Hotel Les Gobelins in the 13th Arrondisement (actually at the edge of the 5th and 13th). It is inexpensive, quiet and clean. It is convenient to the Metro as well.
Connie <email>
USA Mon 07/24/2006
Provence
May would be a wonderful time to go to Provence. Give yourself 4-5 days - at least. We were there in June for 3.5 days. There were many more things we wanted to do but didn't have the time. Definitely go into the Luberon, Avignon, Pont du Gard.
Connie <email>
USA Mon 07/24/2006
Hotel in Paris
Not quite the 14th, but just across the border in the 15th, Accor Hotel's Ibis Tour Eiffel Cambronne, right off Place Cambronne, close to Boul Grenier and the Metro, and about a 20 minute stroll from the Eiffel Tower. 96 Euro per night weekdays in the summer...75 Euro all other times. Great hotel...great location! Check out http://www.accorhotels.com/accorhotels/fichehotel/gb/ibi/1400/fiche_hotel.shtml
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 07/24/2006
Train station in Nafplio, Greece
There are about six ways of spelling the town in English. The one they seem to use in Greece us Nauplion. I think you have to transfer at either Argos or Isthmos, so a better bet might be intercity coach to save time.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 07/24/2006
Hotel in Paris
My favorite budget hotel in Paris was sold to an expensive chain! Any recommendations for a charming, cheap hotel. I love the 14th arr. if anyone knows of something around there.
Ann
USA Mon 07/24/2006
Carrie--Hotel Rates
I just got back from Italy. I booked all my hotes in advance--by phone or internet. I requested an email or fax confirmation of the reservation including price, room type and with or without breakfast. I never needed to use these, as all was as promised, but I felt saf