Graffiti Wall: Travelers' Helpline

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Travelers' Helpline: December 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.

Greek food
Greek food has a lot of vegetables and lamb. We loved the Greek salads with feta cheese and the pita things with grilled lamb and yogurt sauce. Even the ones from the street vendors were great. The grilled fish, fried calamari, and huge shrimp are wonderful but you can find lots of other choices. Give the seafood a chance, its way better than ours!!
USA Sun 12/31/2006

Stay in Venice !!
Venice, Please,please,please, don't listen to the person that said four days in Venice is too much. It is the most amazing place I have ever been and I go there everytime I go to Europe. One time I spent 16 days, all in Venice, and never once was bored. There are so many different things to do and one of the highlights for me was a Vivaldi concert in one of the old churches. It was amazing. The crowds don't bother me a bit, as I am looking at all the marvels, not the people. Its my favorite, so give it a chance. Then if you don't like it, don't go back. I would pick it over Rome and all that traffic any day.
USA Sun 12/31/2006

Venice
Those who were not impressed with Venice should go on the Rick Steves' tour of this city, as I did a couple of years ago. You learn the history of the place, tour the interior of the Doges Palace, Bridge of Sighs, etc. Discover its incredible history. During the day I agree it is overrun with tourists and a hassle to deal with. But in the evening when all of them go back to the cruise ships, it's not crowded at all - you can stroll, eat in restaurants, shop and listen to the wonderful bands playing in Plaza San Marco. It is wonderfully creepy old and romantic. I long to revisit it. I recommend hitting it in late October, earliest -- one of our tour guides said that the crowds go way down the first week of November. It may be a bit rainy and cold, but the place is even stranger and more romantic then. Learn about the city, go in the off off season, that's the best way to see it at its best.
BettyG
San Francisco, CA USA Sun 12/31/2006

The Heart of Athens Tour/Seafood
Greek food incorporates chicken and lamb in addition to some red meat, rice, lentils and vegetables. I once dated a man from Greece, and his cooking could make most people seafood lovers. You will find plenty of food to enjoy, and you might just become a seafood convert! Go and enjoy!
Kim
USA Sun 12/31/2006

is this too much . . .
I am compelled to agree with the comments on Venice--two nights is plenty for me. (I've been twice and stayed longer than two nights both times.) I know there has been some vigorous debate on this subject previously here, so I'll be careful how I frame this. Let's just say that I've found two full days plenty of time to explore the major sites. If you have an interest in Murano (glass), Burano (lace), and Lido (beach), I'd extend the time. Also, if you really enjoy shopping, allow more time in Venice, too. It's fun to explore the maze-like streets away from the crowds where you can find interesting little shops and restaurants.
JSC
Pittsburgh, PA USA Sun 12/31/2006

Jeanne - Mainz Hotel
We stayed at the Advena Europa in Mainz. Round the corner from the train station on Kaiserstrasse. Just watch the badly placed "Kaiserstrasse" street sign which is at right angles to the street instead of parallel to it - we were misled. The hotel is most comfortable and, we felt, reasonably priced. The train takes you right into the airport.
Iain
Edmonton, AB Canada Sun 12/31/2006

Kristen -- Ireland
We just got back from Christmas in Ireland. After all you hear about how bad driving is there, I have to say my husband did a great job, and did not think it was as bad as we had heard. Here are some thoughts: There are very few traffic lights in Ireland -- roundabouts keep the traffic flowing nicely. We should have more roundabouts here. We had maps, but the real lifesaver was our new Garmin GPS which told us every roundabout coming up and every exit to take right before you needed to know. We would have been lost without it. Since we invested in the GPS we took up a new hobby, geocaching, which made the trip even more special. We never would have seen Connors Pass if we weren't geocaching, and what a sight to see! My husband said in retrospect he would have even driven in Dublin, it's not nearly as bad as NYC or Philly. Parking would seem to be the worst issue. (Then again we were there off season.) We did drive into Phoenix Park in Dublin and park the car right by Wellington Monument and pick up a tour bus of Dublin from there. (RS' idea, and a good one if you still have your car by then.) Other than that, there where only 2 or 3 cheek sucking moments when I thought we where headed into the hedges on a curve. Get all the insurance you can and get a GPS -- good luck! You'll have a great time!
<email>
USA Sun 12/31/2006

The Heart of Athens Tour and SEAFOOD!
Hi there! My friend and I were thinking about taking the tour of Greece. However my only concern is the food. I'm just assuming that sea food plays a big part in Greek cuisine. Is it hard to find anything other than sea food? (not a fan if it at all.) Thank you, any advice would be great!
Magdalena <email>
Chicago, IL USA Sun 12/31/2006

is this too much...
This is personal opinion, of course, but I think 4 nights in Venice is 3 nights too much. I'm not a big fan of the place. I saw it once and that was enough for me. It's like a sardine can that is all tourists - very few locals even live there because it's so expensive. There are a few places you can escape to that aren't as crowded, like the old Jewish ghetto, but overall, it's just a gigantic shopping mall on water.

I don't know what you've seen before and what you haven't, but I'd take at least 2 nights from Venice and add it to London, Paris and/or Vienna (or better yet, leave it off entirely and put Rome in its place).

Again, this is my opinion, so if you are a diehard Venice fan, you will obviously disagree. However, if I were to pick any Italian city to visit, I'd always choose Rome. It's vibrant, exciting and reeking with history and culture.
Mardee
Cincinnati, Ohio USA Sun 12/31/2006

is this too much....
I want to cover as much as possible, to see some of the places I have alwasy wanted to see. Places I missed on my last trip to Europe plus a few I fell in love with. I always approach it as if this could be my last chance to see things...

4 nights London 4 nights Venice 3 nights Vienna 3 nights prague 4 nights Paris
lovetotravel
USA Sun 12/31/2006

Re: Paris to Brussels
The cheapest way would be to take a Eurolines bus (www.eurolines.com), but it's not fast. There are three daily buses and the time ranges from 3hr35min to 4hr40min. Adult: E18.00. Under 26: E17.00. 4-12: E9.00. Under 4: E4.00.

On Thalys trains (www.thalys.com or www.sncf.com), Comfort 2 tickets are E78.00 for adults, E38.50 for youths, and E15.00 for kids. Smilys (discount) fares are E54.00. They will be shown as E27 each way, but they are only sold as return (roundtrip) tickets. Book an arbitrary return date and throw away the unused portion. Smilys tickets sell out fast so book as far in advance as possible (up to 90 days, I think--60 for sure). Sometimes "last minute" half-price fares are also available.
Tim
Minot, ND USA Sun 12/31/2006

Re: Meeting at CDG
First, determine at which terminal each person will arrive. The Sheraton Hotel is above the CDG 2 TGV RER station so meeting in the hotel lobby would work. Brioche Doree fast food restaurants are in Terminal 2B and 2C. 2C is closer to the RER station. There is also a Brioche Doree in Terminal 1. You can take a free shuttle bus between terminals and from Terminal 1 to the CDG 1 RER station.

Take the RER B from CDG to Gare du Nord. Take the short underground walk to the Magenta RER station and take the RER E to Haussmann-St-Lazare. The price is E8.10 and includes transfers so long as you don't exit the system. The trip will take about 50 minutes.

Go to www.ratp.fr to download and print a Metro/RER map for central Paris and a RER map that shows service to outlying zones, including CDG.

According to www.bahn.de, the German national rail site that has timetables for most of Europe, reservations are recommended but not required on the Paris-Caen train. Waiting to buy your ticket at the station should be fine.
Tim
Minot, ND USA Sat 12/30/2006

Traveling to Brussels
Thalys train from Paris Nord to Brussels Midi is your best bet....many trains a day, high speed...about 90 minutes or so. Go to http://www.sncf.fr/indexe.htm (French national railway service) and enter your trip parameters. Rates for an adult and 2 kids one way around 90 Euro....return from about 140 Euro. Tickets can be booked up to 90 days in advance, if I recall correctly...maybe up to 120 days. Be careful of the limitations on some of the Smilys discount fares...good deals, as long as you have your travel dates set. Choose to have the tickets picked up in France and do not choose travel insurance, and you'll be able to book it on line.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sat 12/30/2006

Mike in Moscow...place to meet
I had the same issue in October at Zurich airport.

We decided to meet at baggage claim. First ones in get their luggage, checking the flight for the others...and then go to the carosel for the later arrivee.

This worked great for us...since we were all coming in from the US, we were all in the same baggage claim area. flights were about 20 min apart in arriving.

you might google the airport to see if there is a floor plan to assist you.
USA Sat 12/30/2006

I would definately contact your credit card company - my experiences in re fraud or non delivery and getting a refund have been quite good. But you need to do it soon - I think three months may be the limit.

However, you should be aware that there is a possibility that the vineyard shipped the wine, but the package was damaged en route or delayed in customs. Almost certainly the package would have been inspected by customs as the cost would have been enough to incur a customs fee. And thus, there is always a chance that the package was either lost/delayed by customs or if it was damaged, disposed of in customs. They should notify you, but if the delivery address is obliterated or they aren't on the ball, you just don't know.

I would e-mail the vineyard one more time indicating that if you do not receive a response within a week (or two, perhaps since it is holiday time), that you will be pursuing the matter with your credit card company. That way they have a chance to sort matters out if they did ship the wine. Somtimes a warning with a set deadline can do wonders in getting action because a company is not likely to want to get a black mark on their record with credit card companies as it could hurt future sales.

Kate
Scotland Sat 12/30/2006

Frankfurt airport hotels
Google hotels at Frankfurt Airport - you can find them for less than $100 and that may be your best bet. You can stay farther out but have to figure in the cost of a taxi if no other transportation is available that early in the morning. I think there is a fairly inexpensive hotel (inter city or something like that) actually in the airport.
USA Sat 12/30/2006

ITALIAN EXPERIENCE
If you do not receive the service or the product, the credit card company can take of getting the money back - check now because you only have a limited time in which to dispute the charges. This has worked for us because we keep close watch on our credit card account and always point out problems the minute we spot them
Phoebe
USA Sat 12/30/2006

Ideas for Vickie
Consider the Scottish Highlands. You could get a BritRail pass and make stops anywhere you like. Aviemore in the Caringorms, Inverness on the coast. Perth, etc. Go all the way up to John O'Groats or try the Orkney Islands or Skye, Iona, Oban, etc. LOTS to see and do. The coast of Wales is interesting also. Great mix of moutains (Snowdonia area) and coast.
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA Sat 12/30/2006

Traveling to Brussels
I am traveling with children from Paris to Brussels. How can I get there quickly and cheaply?
Rhonda <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Sat 12/30/2006

RE: Departing from Frankfurt
Check out Hotel Königshof in Mainz (www.hotel-koenigshof-mainz.de). The website is in English and German.

Königshof is on the corner of Schottstr. and the Bahnhofplatz. It is just a few minute's walk across the Platz to the station in the morning.

A double room is €69 on the weekend (F-M) or €82 T,W,T. It looks like the double room might have a double bed. You might ask for a "two bed room". If you prefer singles, they are €55 weekends, €57 weeknights.

A little closer to the airport is the Best Western Atrium in Rüsselsheim. Because they cater to people doing business with the Opal plant, they're expensive during the week, but they have good weekend rates. It is just a few minutes walk to the S-Bahn station. Check the Best Western website.
<email>
USA Sat 12/30/2006

ITALIAN EXPERIENCE
On October 15, 2006 we purchased six bottles of wine at the Tenuta Torciano (torciano@torcano.com; www.torciano.com) winery in San Gimignano, Italy. The wine was to be shipped to our home in Sacramento, CA. The wine was never delivered even though our credit card account was debited for the cost. I received a response to an email sent to the winery on October 27th indicating that the wine should be one its way. Four subsequent emails received no responses. I urge other tourists to Italy to be cautious in dealings with this winery. We are unsure of what recourse we have to obtain the wine or recoup our expenditure.
Victor de Vlaming <email>
Sacramento, CA USA Sat 12/30/2006

Meeting at CDG Airport
Three of us are flying in to Charles de Gaul airport in Paris next April, arriving on different airlines from western Canada and the northwestern US.

Can anyone recommend a good place to meet at the airport? We may have a couple of hours between arrival times, depending on delays, etc.

From there we need to catch a train to Caen. What's the best way to get from CDG to the St Lazare train station, and how long is that likely to take? As we are not certain about when we will get out of the airport, we are debating whether we should reserve train tickets or buy when we get there. Any advice?

Thanks!

- Mike
Mike Finkbiner <email>
Moscow, ID USA Sat 12/30/2006

Departing from Frankfurt
My teenaged son and I will be departing from the Frankfurt airport at 7:00 A.M. this summer. I need some advice on where to spend the night before we leave. We're on a rather tight budget and will not have a car. I figure that we'll want to arrive at the airport at approximately 5:00 A.M. We could spend the night in Frankfurt, althought downtown Frankfurt sounds questionable and we will have to walk to the train station at about 4:30 A.M. I've found some hotels closer to the airport with shuttles, but they don't start running until 6:00 A.M. I'm not sure we'll be able to easily get a taxi at that time either. We're considering Mainz. There is a train that leaves for the airport at 4:30. I haven't been able to find any reasonably priced places near the Mainz train station, however. We are considering just spending the night in the Frankfurt airport. Any suggestions?
Jeanne
USA Sat 12/30/2006

RE: Europe Itinerary
Forgot to mention. We are using FF miles on AA and we were limited on flying in and out cities. We could fly into or out of London, Paris or Frankfurt during those times. Rome was not available which is why we are doing a big loop.
Lsmith
austin, TX USA Sat 12/30/2006

Itinerary for Europe Trip
Hello- I'm an avid reader of all things Rick Steves and have done a lot of research for our trip to Europe in Sept thru mid Oct 2007. We want to enjoy each place so have narrowed it to London, France and parts of Italy. Below is our current plan:

Sept 2- Arrive London Sept 9- overnight ferry to Caen/Normandy Sept 13- Travel to Provence (avignon or arles) Sept 16- overnight train which leaves at 10 pm to Rome Sept 19- travel to Florence Sept 22- rent car drive to Tuscany/agritourismo Sept 29- Travel to Cinque Terre Oct 2- Travel to Nice Oct 5- Train to Paris Oct 13- Leave for US

Any comments or suggestions? These are the main things I really wanted to see. It's my first time in Europe. DH has been to London and Paris.

Thanks!
Lsmith <email>
austin, tx USA Sat 12/30/2006

Re: Eurostar
Eurostar fares vary widely depending upon day of the week, time of day, and how many discount seats are available. You have to book 120 days in advance to get the cheapest price. Book now.
Tim
Minot, ND USA Sat 12/30/2006

Rome Hotel
Jerry--we thoroughly enjoyed the Aberdeen Hotel. None of us were bothered by noise and we were 8 in 4 rooms scattered throughout the hotel. Everything about the hotel including the wonderful staff was delightful.
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Fri 12/29/2006

Want to get away but where in the world?
Here’s a little back ground, I love the coast, boats, back roads to little undiscovered towns that make you feel at home and safe places to walk but most of all I’ve always got my camera in hand looking for that great short.. And of course the budget is always an issue but never a stopper.. Thinking some time in March, April or May 2007

Any and all suggestions welcome

Thanks
Vicky <email>
SAC, CA USA Fri 12/29/2006

Rome Italy Hotel
Stay at the Aberdeen Hotel. Not only is it very nice, convenient, safe and reasonable but the staff is a delight. The hotel is run by the most knowledgable hotel people you could ask for. I wouldn't stay anywhere else. And I don't.
Charles M. Luther
USA Fri 12/29/2006

Eurostar
My husband and I are going to the UK March 22nd - April 2nd and would really like to take an overnight trip to Paris. Tickets on Eurostar will cost us $280 if bought here. Would they be any cheaper if we waited and bought them in London or Ashford?
Karen <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Fri 12/29/2006

Ask for a quiet room
Jerry, The best you can do, is to ask for a room away from a busy street, or just ask for a quiet room. Sometimes it doesn't matter, you get what you get. But it won't hurt to ask.
USA Fri 12/29/2006

Thank you for the Driving/Ireland feedback
Thank you "USA", Tim/Minot,MD, Kim/IA, Jeff and VA,USA for your feedback! The questions to ask ourselves was great insight. We have already established that my husband will do the driving and I'll have to remember to not be a backseat driver! The hubcap removal idea is great. And I love the perspective about a year after the trip the hassles will be forgotten and only the great memories will last. Also the fact that the train service isn't as great in Ireland as it is in Scotland was very valuable input.
Kristen
Santa Ana, CA USA Fri 12/29/2006

Tour or no tour?
Suzann, Your posting sounds a bit contradictory. Sounds like you may be a little scared since this is your first trip.

You said "don't know where to start" and the touring companies "don't visit the places we want to visit"!!

Start with the places you want to visit!Sounds like you have a list or an idea of what you want to see. Group these together by location and importance and JUST GO!!

If you have a particular interest in a subject, try to find a walking tour in that city. Ask at your hotel.

In Venice, just get lost in the streets. In Venice, the thing to see is the beautiful city.
USA Fri 12/29/2006

Rome Italy Hotels
My wife and I are going to be in Rome Italy 16-20 July and again 9-13 August and are trying to determine if we should stay at the Aberdeen Hotel (one recommended by Rick) or the Columbia Hotel recommended by Frommers book on Italy. Both of these hotels have many good recommendations in Tripadvisor.com as well as some bad reports. Typically the bad reports are about noise. We are looking for someone to give us some personal experience input. Thanks.....Jerry
Jerry Thompson <email>
Poulsbo , Wash. USA Fri 12/29/2006

Tour or no tour?
My boyfriend and I are taking our first trip to Europe (18 days)and I would like some help/advice. He wants to join a tour group for at least part of our trip because he doesn't know where to start planning and what to see. The problem for me is almost all tours are at least 10 days and don't visit the places we want to visit (Berlin, Munich, Normandy, Paris, and Venice). My question is can anyone recommend a good tour company or does anyone have an iterinary for any of the cities I mentioned? I appreciate any and all help.
Suzann <email>
Orangevale, CA USA Fri 12/29/2006

Ireland Singles fest May 2007
Ireland May 2007 Does anyone have info on a Singles festival in May 2007 I was told about?
BC <email>
steamboat springs, CO USA Fri 12/29/2006

brussels to amsterdam
second class 30 euros train
USA Fri 12/29/2006

Trains - Brussels to Amsterdam
Has anyone taken a 2nd class train ride to/from Brussels and Amsterdam? How much did it cost (approx.)?
VA USA Fri 12/29/2006

short trip out of London to Normandy
We will be in London for over a week and want to spend two and a half of those days visiting the Normandy beaches and Mt ST-Michel. Is there anyplace in London that we can go to upon arrival and book this type of short trip? We are thinking we need to take the ferry to Calais, then rent a car in Calais, and reserve hotels before we leave. We don't know whether to put the pieces together while home in US or wait until we get to London. We'd appreciate any suggestions people have on any aspect of the trip.
b Hampton <email>
pasadena, md USA Fri 12/29/2006

Driving in Ireland - two more cents
My husband and I just drove throughout Ireland for 10 days in October 2006. We had never driven on the left before, and we had no problems. Most of the other cars you see on the roads you take are other first time drivers (marked by the big red L in their windows)...so pretty much everyone was in the same boat of being a new driver in a foreign country. We had more problems watching out for pot holes on tiny, back roads than we did navigating or remembering which side to drive on. In fact, when we got back to USA I had to remind my husband to drive on the RIGHT! :o)
VA USA Fri 12/29/2006

Rental Cars & Hubcaps
Before our trip to Italy, where we rented a car, I read somewhere that it would be a good idea to secure hubcaps to the wheels with black nylon ties. I guess the idea is a good one because when we picked up our car we found that Hertz does use the ties on their cars.
USA Fri 12/29/2006

Looking for Guide in Sofia
Hello, does anyone know of a good and reputable guide in Sofia, Bulgaria??? Thanks! Kim
Kim <email>
greater Cambridge, USA Fri 12/29/2006

Driving in Ireland
A good idea I read somewhere is to remove the wheel covers (hubcaps) on the left side before you start out. Chances are very good that you will hit a curb and you don't want to get charged for a replacement.
Jeff
USA Thu 12/28/2006

Ray: Walking stick
A lot of souvenir shops in Switzerland sell cheap "disposable" walking sticks. There is no need to lug one in your luggage all the way from the US.
Michael Schneider <email>
NY USA Thu 12/28/2006

Re: Rome to Civitavecchia
If you go to www.bahn.de, the German national rail site that has timetables for most of Europe, you'll see that there are direct trains at least twice an hour from Roma Termini to Civitavecchia.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 12/28/2006

Venice
This is my first time to ask a question but want you all to know I have spent hours reading all of your input. Find it so interesting. What do you think of Venice the week before the big Carnivale. We are thinking of traveling there for the first time and it would be around the 3-6 of February. Carnivale gets going around the 7th through the 20th. Any good hotels with great views. Any other input appreciated. Happy New Year to all.
A. McClelland
Fort Worth, TX USA Thu 12/28/2006

Driving in Ireland
I have driven in ireland and had no serious problems. However, I did see rental cars with the side view mirrors torn off. Before deciding on the issue of driving, I suggest you consider the following questions:are you a defensive driver; can you honestly say you are a good driver; have you had accidents and tickets for traffic violations; do you consider yourself capable of handling stress and keeping a level head; are you able to make fast decissions in adverse situations; are both of you good passengers in the car; can both of you remain calm in a potential accident situation; are you both capable of calmly telling the driver to move back into the correct lane without screeching, hissing or sucking in of breath (there will probably be times you want to do all these things)? If you answer yes to these questions, then I would suggest a rental car in Ireland. No matter what decission you make, you will have a great time in Ireland. Nothing else is possible.
Kim
Iowa USA Thu 12/28/2006

Advice About Driving in Ireland
When I lived in the U.K. for a year, I had to learn to drive on the left. It's a bit like being a new driver all over again. Much of what comes automatically to you here needs to become very consciously thought out there. One thing that helped was to think about keeping myself (as the driver) close to the center line. That counteracted a tendency to drift to the side. Right turns are the scary ones. You need to think very consciously about where you want to be when you come out of your turn. The good news is that traffic in Ireland is much lighter than in many other countries of Europe. The main problems we faced were narrow, winding roads in rural areas and sudden encounters with flocks of sheep around blind curves. Monitor your speed with such possibilities in mind.
USA Thu 12/28/2006

For Craig- hiking shoes suggestion
I swear by my Keen sandals for summer hiking, even in the Cascades at home in the US. I wore them to hike the CT trail as well as in Greece. The traction is fabulous. (I wear mine on the plane, since they are heavier than my nicer walking- around- in- the- city sandals.)This is assuming that you are planning on hiking on established trails that don't have a lot of undergrowth, etc- then they would not be a good choice. I investigated getting a telescoping walking stick, and found one at REI that collapses small enough for a 22- inch carry-on bag. But with security regulations, you should check, because most airlines now are unlikely to let you take it on the plane with you- a consideration if you are not intending to check your bag.
Karen
USA Thu 12/28/2006

Berlin springtime travel
I've been to Europe 3 times already, but always during the summer months. My boyfriend and I are wanting to go to London and Berlin in spring 2007, but I'm concerned about the weather.

Does anyone know when it starts to get warmer, but still hasn't yet hit peak season for summer travel? I'd like to be able to avoid crowds and get cheaper airfare at the same time, without having to go too early and freeze. If you have any tips for me please email.

Thanks and happy travels!
Bethia <email>
Daly, CA USA Thu 12/28/2006

Craig - hiking in the Alps
I just did a hiking trip in Switzerland in october. I found trekking poles very useful. I'd highly recommend them. As far as hiking boots go....if you plan to hike very high on a trail, I'd recommend them. HOwever, if you plan on just taking a walk....you probably can use your tennis shoes. But, be aware, if the weather changes, and you get stuck in rain...it will get slippery.

That said, I know you are traveling in August, but you should still be prepared for a shower...make sure you plan on some lightweight raingear. Take water too....if hiking the Swiss alps...you will find a resturant not too far up the trail...you can purchase water there, or some soup!

Have a wonderful time, but like the boy scouts say - be prepared!
Ellen <email>
USA Thu 12/28/2006

Trains, Rome to Civitavecchia
My wife and I plan to spend 4 days in Rome prior to boarding a cruise ship at Civitavecchia Harbor. We understand that we can take a train from Rome's Termini Station to Civitavecchia. Can someone tell us if that train goes directly to Civitavecchia or do we need to change trains someplace prior to our arrival? Thank you...Jerry
Jerry thompson <email>
Poulsbo, Wash. USA Thu 12/28/2006

Re: Driving in Ireland
Kristen,

In a word, drive. You've already listed many good reasons for doing so.

Unlike the UK, train service in Ireland is quite limited. Bus service is better, but doesn't go everywhere you are likely to wish to visit. Tourist hot spots offer local bus tours so you could get to them on Bus Eireann and then sign up for a local tour; but it's more fun to stop and look whenever you choose, not when the driver chooses.

Since everyone has his or her own comfort level, I can't guarantee that you will adjust quickly to driving on the left. However, for me it took less than one day.

Having a detailed map is essential for driving in Ireland. For me the Michelin Ireland map was detailed enough. I bought it at amazon.com and used it for my planning. The scale is 1:400,000.

If you want something even more detailed, then buy the spiral-bound Ordnance Survey Complete Road Atlas of Ireland. Scale 1:210,000. If you don't want to wait until you get to Ireland to have it, then a Google search will give you several sites from which you can order it now.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 12/28/2006

Germany, Austria, Swiss Tips?
We are heading to Germany, Austria & Switzerland next August...With an afternoon free for treking any tips on shoes vs hiking boots for some easy hiking in the Alps. Would a walking stick be helpful? Weather packing tips for August in mountains?
Craig
USA Thu 12/28/2006

Bellagio Hotel or Apt?
I had my heart set on staying at Il Borgo Residence in Bellagio, but found out today it is unavailable. Any recommendations?
Polly <email>
Morro Bay, CA USA Thu 12/28/2006

DRIVING OR TRAIN TRAVEL IN IRELAND
Kristen: If you decide to rent a car for travel you will be glad a year from now. You will have forgotten the additional cost and the other negative influences on your trip.

I have always rented a car and although I estimate the cost before I go, I forget about it and enjoy the convenience. And a year later when I read my journal and relive the experience I am glad I didn’t let the cost discourage me.

The last time I rode the train from Cinque Terre to Milano to take my car I wondered why I subjected myself to the monotonous miles of unappealing views of backyards and empty warehouses along the RR tracks.

Often train schedules are inconvenient and may not go to the towns you want to see. Throwing luggage onto and off trains is a real drag for me. Many times the floor level of the RR car and of the platform can vary from 12 to 18 inches.

I recommend you drive in Ireland. I was doubtful when I first took my car in Belfast, but after a week of driving those narrow roads I looked back on the pleasant views we saw–which we would never have seen out a train window.

Being able to say stop, I want to see this sight or eat here or visit the restroom is worth the difficulity of finding a place to park.

I found driving on the wrong side is disconcerting for the first two or three days only. After that I rolled with the punches.

If you take care and stay alert and watch the other drivers, anyone can do it safely.

A lot will depend on your attitude. Approach it as adventure. After you achieve your goal you will be happy.

Don’t let the missed turns or confusion at roundabouts discourage you.

All of us go through that and after 55 countries and a few thousand countries I can say I have not regretted renting a car anywhere in the world.

I find the best advice is to buy a good highway map once you get to Ireland (not here). Irish maps are more accurate and up to date.

I leave nothing of value in my car when I spend the night. I also spread a local newspaper around the car to make it appear to be a non-tourist vehicle.
USA Thu 12/28/2006

farm stay in Italy or France with children
We are looking for a child friendly farm(gite or agriturismo) in Italy or France for June for us and our 4 and 5 yr olds. Hopefully with a pool. We also will be in Paris for 2 weeks and would welcome any tips on apartments in the 7e.
Kerry <email>
Seattle, WA USA Thu 12/28/2006

Driving or Train travel in Ireland?
Ok. Now I'm officially freaked out about driving on our first trip abroad, after reading the German/Budget rental story. Aagh! My husband and I are planning a September 07 trip to Scotland and on to Ireland. I had already planned to do only train travel in Scotland (we'll only be there about 4 or 5 days). The main purpose is to acclimate ourselves to the environment, and travelling on the opposite side of the road.

I was planning to fly out of Edinburgh into Shannon and rent a car there, starting our Ireland trip via car to Galway, then back up the West to South Coast, ending in Dun Laoghaire/Dublin where we'd drop the car off and spend the rest of our time using public transporation to get to our day trips around Dublin.

I have spoken to a few travellers to Ireland and they are equally adament about "DON'T drive in Ireland" (for safety issues) or "DO drive in Ireland" (for the freedom).

Here's my mindset, and why I'm confused: I want the control to be able to say "Stop! Let's eat here" or "I want to take a picture of that". On the flipside, when we travel locally, we generally tend to drive right through. They are trips we make regularly for camping, so it's nothing new to us. In Ireland EVERYTHING will be new, so I'm still inclined to allow us the freedom of stopping (safely, mind you) when we feel like it.

However, time is important, so it's not like we can stop and go all day long to get somewhere...also I'm very nervous about the safety issues (is driving really so bad in Ireland, really?).

Finally, I don't know if it will be cheaper to rent a car for a week than to purchase a bus or rail pass. I'm also of the mind that cost is not only money, it's time and peace of mind added into the equation, so if something is a little more expensive but less stressful, that's ok.

Argh. I'm confused and need to make up my mind, as we'll be starting the reservations process in a couple months.
Kristen <email>
Santa Ana, CA USA Thu 12/28/2006

Capital One Card
I've used Capital One extensively on my travels, particularly in Europe and South Africa. What's been said below is what I've found to be true, although I also use the cash back option over the miles option. As with every other card, however (credit and ATM), be sure to call and tell Capital One that you'll be using it out of the country.
JSC
Pittsburgh, PA USA Thu 12/28/2006

Jana.. Must sees in Croatia
We spent 5 weeks recently in Eastern Europe, and loved Croatia especially. Besides Split, Dubrovnik, see Korcula, also rent car in Dubrovnik and go down the coast to Montrenegro and Bay of Kotor. That was an amazing highlight. Email me for more details if you like.
Helene <email>
Brentwood, CA USA Wed 12/27/2006

Vaux-le-Viscomte Candelight visit
Advice appreciated on how we (family of 4) can visit Vaux-le-Viscomte at night for the candlelight visit. In Rick's book, he mentions that it's expensive to get there by public transport, and trains back to Paris stop running just as it's getting dark in June. What about a car rental? We'll have an apartment in central Paris; a car rental might work well, but is there an easy place to p/u and drop the car (may be quite late) to avoid having to drive and park in the city?

Also interested to hear about tips for day trips to Auvers sur Oise and Chartres. Thanks!
Cindy <email>
Westbrook, ME USA Wed 12/27/2006

Samos and Athens, Greece
To Linda:

It's been awhile since I've stayed in Hotel Attalos, but if it's the one on Athinas St., about 15 minutes walk to the Acropolis and Plaka area, I can tell you a bit about it. Good location (also close to Syntagma and Monastiraki) budget hotel, ask for a room off the street to avoid traffic noise - Athinas is busy, even in the middle of the night. Slightly seedy area, but I never felt unsafe. Olympic Airways was fine every time I used them. On Samos, I'm not familiar with the hotel you mention, but we stayed in Kokkari and Pythagoria (1 night for daytrip to Ephesus)and also explored the island by moped one day. Feel free to email me directly.
Cindy <email>
Westbrook , ME USA Wed 12/27/2006

Venere
I booked all our Hotels in Italy via Venere and had fantastic success. I like them very much.... Book with confidence!
Greg
Seattle, WA USA Wed 12/27/2006

Hotel Villa Liberty
Has anyone ever stayed at Hotel Villa Liberty outside of Siena? If so, how did you like it and was it very noisy at night? Thanks.
Boni
Littleton, CO USA Wed 12/27/2006

Re: Capital One
For our Capital One card, we opted for the card that gives us cash back, rather than miles, so I couldn't comment on getting tickets. But I can vouch from personal experience that Capital One does not charge extra for foreign currency transactions, unlike many other cards. In addition, they eat the foreign currency surcharge imposed by MasterCard. Hence, that's the card we use when we're in Europe.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Wed 12/27/2006

CapOne Card, Etc.
I got a CapitalOne card for the reasons below. I don't use it for the refunds and special deals because it pays back only 0.5% (half or less than other cards paying 1% to 5%). I use it only for charges when traveling in Europe. For frequent flyer miles I use the (Visa) United Mileage Plus card. For cash at ATMs in France (BNP Paribas) or Britain (Barclays) I use my ATM card from Bank of America which charges no foreign bank fees.
Swan
USA Wed 12/27/2006

Brugges self catering
Has anyone rented a self catering flat in Brugges, Belgium? We will be there in Feb '07 and would appreciate any referrals. THANKS!
Steve Gill <email>
Spokane, WA USA Wed 12/27/2006

To Jana re: Croatia
We visited Croatia in August 2005. We didn't travel between Italy and Croatia but I know there were ferry services as well as faster boats that go back and forth between the two. As far as places to visit on the Croatian coast, we really enjoyed Dubrovnik and Split. We also spent time on Hvar and used that as a base to visit neighboring islands. Although everyone raves about the beach at Bol, I thought it was nice but not worth the crazy bus ride from the ferry dock. Have a great trip!
Rita
Philadelphia, USA Wed 12/27/2006

>>Again, for the price you pay, you won't find a better deal than booking early on a discount airline.

Actually that's a big myth. Often the mainstream airlines actually have better fares. I find frequently that BMI has much cheaper fares from Scotland to London than EasyJet, same for KLM to Amsterdam or other European destinations. It's a matter of booking early and checking the airlines' websites and places like Expedia to compare fares and sales.

Kate
Scotland Tue 12/26/2006

FRANCE-ITALY
I AM LOOKING AT THE BEST PACKAGE FOR FLYING TO PARIS, THAN TAKE A TRAIN OVER TO VENICE, ITALY. ANY SUGGESTIONS ?
CHRIS <email>
CONCORD, NC USA Tue 12/26/2006

Re: France-Italy
Chris,

A little more information would help us help you. By "package" do you mean an inclusive airfare and train combo? Or are you simply asking what's the best way to book plane tickets and train tickets separately for the places you wish to visit?

For example, you could fly open jaw: home-Paris and Venice-home so you wouldn't have to spend time and money getting back to Paris. There is a direct overnight train from Paris to Venice that would save you the cost of a night in a hotel and give you more daylight hours for sightseeing. Booked far enough in advance (90 days max), discount fares are available at sncf.com. Note: they sell out quickly.

Ryanair is a budget airline that flies from Paris Beauvais to Venice Treviso. Both are outlying airports which require extra time and expense to get to. A better option might be to use MyAir, another budget airline, which flies from Paris Orly to Venice Marco Polo.

When you respond, turn off the caps lock. There is no need to "shout."
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 12/26/2006

Venice to the Dalmation Coast
I am planning a trip this spring to Venice and Croatia. Is it easy to travel between the two by boat or discount airline? Also any recommendations for must sees in Croatia would be appreciated.
Jana <email>
seattle, wa USA Tue 12/26/2006

Capital One card
Has anyone used the Capital One card to acrue miles for travel? Wondering if it really does work, and how many miles it takes to get a "free" ticket. (yes, I understand it's not really free...you pay for it by spending money)
USA Tue 12/26/2006

Re: Capital One Card
I have a Capital One World MasterCard and have redeemed rewards for air travel several times. It has worked well for me.

Here's a link to a page that describes the "No Hassle Rewards" program: http://tinyurl.com/vkfke.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 12/26/2006

Re: London/Paris; Air vs Rail
I think that you are looking at it right, look at total cost, not only ticket cost. If you are staying near city center in both London and Paris, I really do not think that you can beat the train. Without re-hashing the details, I am sure you will find it quicker and cheaper by rail, even if throwing in that the chunnel aspect of the trip is a non-event.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 12/25/2006

RE: EasyJet
"cancellations on discount airlines may end up causing problems, but one has to trade off the REMOTE CHANCE that will happen against the price value."

According to Airlinequality.com, the last complaint made against EasyJet of such a "remote chance" occurred on December 10, 2006, when a flight was cancelled without any rebooking. Nothing was done to help the passengers, who were only told to apply for a refund online.

This problem occurs far too often with the low fare airlines. Before booking with them, consider the consequences to your trip if the flight is just cancelled and you are left to find your own way, at top dollar.
USA Mon 12/25/2006

avalon river cruise
My wife and I just returned from a river cruise with Avalon.It had to be the worst travel experience of my life,the staff were the most rude and cocky people i have ever meet and the cruise is a waste of time and money.The cruise director tried to sell the optional excursions by telling the travelers that the all of the included trips were crowded with immigrants and tourists from other countries.But the optional tours were filled with real europeans.Anyone on the ship of color was treated with total contempt and they did not try to hide they're dislike for them.When we filled out our evalution of the trip, they read it in front of us and called other crew members over to read it and they all laughed and the cruise director threw in the trash with everyone looking on .
victor hammond
seguin, texas USA Sun 12/24/2006

Easy Jet not so easy
Discount Airlines: Please note that the discount airlines in Europe such as Easy Jet may save you some money but they also may change your travel plans!! Someone I know had their flight from Paris to Rome cancelled at the last moment and Easy Jet told them the next available flight would be in two days. Apparently, they don't try to book you an another airline or anything. This person completely missed Italy because of this and had to make other arrangments to fly back to the states. Sometimes, trying to save money backfires!
USA Sun 12/24/2006

Hotel Napoleon-Paris
Any comments will be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Jeff
NJ USA Sun 12/24/2006

Easy Jet not so easy
Cancellations and the failure to rebook on another airline aren't uique to easyjet or any other discount carrier.
USA Sun 12/24/2006

RE: Easy Jet not so Easy
Yes, but the larger airlines have more planes, more staff, fly out of larger airports and alliances with other airlines. Thus, they are generally less likely to have cancellations (i.e. they've got extra planes etc.), less likely to strand you in some tiny airpot only serviced by a few discount airlines and have more capability to deal with unexpected situations. It doesn't mean they are always good - think British Airways - but they will amost always be better in a pinch than the discount airlines. And usually have more flexibility in refunds/rerouting etc.

Anyone who is flying on an airline from an EU country or on any flight originating in or between EU countries is covered by the EU flight regulations which require compensation in many circumstances of cancellation/delay. There are exceptions, but if your flight is delayed or cancelled, you should always check the regulations and with the airlines to make sure you've been compensated as the law requires.
Kate
Scotland Sun 12/24/2006

RE: easyjet
Experiences I've had tell me that even large airlines that are members of alliances, have to be pushed extraordinarily hard before they'll rebook you on anything....something very few people are willing to do. Yes, cancellations on discount airlines may end up causing problems, but one has to trade off the remote chance that will happen against the price value. As for smaller airports, Ryanair seems to be the big offender for that. Easyjet seems to be flying into all the big airports (CDG, Barajas to name two), so the argument doesn't hold there. Again, for the price you pay, you won't find a better deal than booking early on a discount airline. Now the larger airlines are starting to respond....it's amazing what a little competition can do!
USA Sun 12/24/2006

Rome-Sicily flightts
We'll be traveling from Rome to Palermo, returning Catania to Rome. AirOne (Lufthansa) and Alitalia both fly those routes for about the same rates. Is one airline more reliable than the other?
David
Danville, CA USA Sat 12/23/2006

assitance
how does this sound for an outline 5 nights manchester 7 nights Istanbul 4 nights london 5 nights Paris
db
USA Sat 12/23/2006

Leipzig to Venice
Tim's tinyurl won't work because the webpage has expired, but you can get to the same place at (no www)http://buchung.nachtzugreise.de; click on the British flag for English. In addition to seats for €29, since it sounds like there may be several of you (you said "we"), you could share a private double with washbasin for as low as €69 per person with advance purchase. In a private triple it's €59 pP.

The Leipzig-Munich leg takes just over 4 hours using express trains (€74 pP), but, if you were willing to spend two more hours on regional trains, you could share a Sachsen Ticket (€24) and a Bayern Ticket (€27). That's just over €30 per person if there are two of you.

The €27 for the Bayern Ticket reflects the price increase as of Jan 1; the €24 Sachsen Ticket is current price.

I noted that the "all inclusive" €19,99 fare on HLX seems only to be for the 7 AM flight, which would require you to be AT the airport by 5 AM. A later flight is probably a higher fare and includes an additional €28 in taxes and fees.
<email>
USA Sat 12/23/2006

Leipzig to Venice update
Update - sorry but we answered our own question: Found it's cheaper and better to just go from Leipzig Halle Airport directly to Venice Marco Polo Airport. Found a Flight for 40 Euro for me and my wife together! HLX Hapag Lloyd Express Airlines see hlx.com. Found by just googling Leipzig Airport.
Frank
Largo, FL USA Sat 12/23/2006

More re Leipzig-Venice
To complete the picture I gave you in my previous post, Hapag-Lloyd Express is a budget airline that flies the Leipzig-Venice route. Note, however, that some days of the week there are no flights. Booked far enough in advance, the fare can be as low as E19.99 inclusive. Like all budget airlines, the later you book, the higher the price.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 12/23/2006

Re: Leipzig to Venice
The best site for timetables for most of Europe is www.bahn.de. You will find many times and routes for Leipzig-Venice, some of them requiring multiple changes.

IMO, here's the best one: Leave Leipzig Hbf at 18:16 and arrive at Munich Hbf at 22:41. Leave Munich Hbf at 23:40 and arrive at Venezia Santa Lucia at 07:36.

Taking the night train saves you the cost of a night in a hotel and gives you more daylight hours for sightseeing. Booked far enough in advance, SparNight fares are available that start at E29.

Here's a link to the night train booking site: http://tinyurl.com/y7lsml.

You can book the Leipzig-Munich leg at bahn.de. The 2nd class fare is E74.00.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 12/23/2006

Catania-to-Rome
We used both airlines summer of 2005- Alitalia for Genoa to Catania and your other option for back to Rome, which was the beginning leg of our return to the US. I don't know what time of year you are flying. We flew at the peak of tourist season, early August. The Catania airport was absolute chaos! We had an 8 am flight (I purposely chose the earliest so if it was delayed we wouldn't be as likely to miss our flight from Rome). We got to the airport at 6:45, having been assured by the taxi driver it would be no problem. A mob scene! There were no formal lines, just hordes of Italian tourists with more luggage than I have ever seen. Really! Suitcases the size of small cars, all smashing into each other and used to push ahead in anything that began to resemble a queue. We barely made the flight, and that was only because a very kindly and very huge grandpa took pity on me when I decided to just start to cry. So my advice is not so much the airline you choose, as to make sure to leave way more time than you would ordinarily if traveling at peak tourist times.
Karen
USA Sat 12/23/2006

David - Sicily flight plans
With the track record of strikes by Italian run trains, airlines. I'd say Lufthansa - Air One is much more reliable.

We flew them Rome to Palermo. Very smooth, on time. I'd recommend the German run airline over the Italian one anyday!

Just consider being stuck for a day or more because Alitalia pilots, ground crew or flight attendants decided to strike....that would not happen on AirOne.
Ellen
CO USA Sat 12/23/2006

Leipzig Germany to Venice
In May we need to go from Leipzig Germany to Venice Italy. Seems to be very difficult to find Train Info. Looking for best/quickest/cheapest way to get from Leipzig to Venice. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Frank <email>
Largo, FL USA Fri 12/22/2006

Using Venere
Sara and I have used Venere often and have always had good results. Others we have found are good are VRBO,parisbestlodge and inhungary.
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Fri 12/22/2006

Venere.com
We used Venere in October after winging it the first few nights of our trip with limited success. We got online in Italy at a cafe, used the site in English, and had no problems. We booked for the following three nights. No problem with finding affordable accomodations in either Milan or Paris at the last minute. Much less expensive than what I was quoted by several "Rick" hotels listed in the guidebooks. I found that many of Rick's recommended hotels are also listed in Lonely Planet and on EuroCheapo. Once they got referred to at that level, they were no longer bargain rooms. Both hotels were listed as one star and were clean, basic, and cheap. I had a good experience.
NancyW <email>
GA USA Fri 12/22/2006

venere website, coincidence!
I just finished receiving news from them that the hotel in Avignon I tried to book online with Venere had nothing available- I received three prompt and easy-to-understand e-mails as the process unfolded. So although I never got to the payment part of the transaction, they certainly seemed reliable. They did say, in their "apology" e-mail, that they have no way of knowing if the deal will actually be available since it is up to the individual hotels to update availability. Like what happened to me. I would give it a try, and hope you have better luck! Happy travels.
Karen
USA Fri 12/22/2006

website
Has anyone ever used venere.es to book hotel rooms in Spain? I would like to know if they are reputable. I found some great deals for Barcelona.
Kim
Brooklyn, NY USA Fri 12/22/2006

Still More: Lyon to Bercy
If the weather's miserable and you don't want to wheel your luggage from Lyon to Bercy, use a ticket from your carnet to ride bus #87 between the stations or ride the metro line 14 one stop.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 12/22/2006

Prague New Year's Eve
I will be in Prague for New Year's Eve with my children (10 and 11)- any suggestions on places to go for the evening?
CB
GA USA Fri 12/22/2006

More re Lyon to Bercy
Viamichelin.com gives a walking distance of 1.5km from Gare de Lyon to Gare de Bercy. You asked what to do if the weather is miserable. Buy a carnet of ten metro/bus tickets (E10.90) and share them. Visit one or two tourist attractions that are at the top of your "must see" list. Since I love Impressionist art, the first place I'd go is the Musee d'Orsay. Be sure to take time for coffee in a cafe--or at the Orsay. Have dinner. Shop for food and wine to take with you on the train.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 12/22/2006

Re: Paris Transfer, Nord to Bercy
According to the Paris Tourist Office site (www.parisinfo.com), Gare de Lyon has left-luggage lockers. Gare de Bercy has no luggage storage facilities.

Purely guessing, but since the tracks at both stations are at street level, there isn't likely to be a tunnel connecting them. You should have no problem wheeling your bags on the sidewalk, however.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 12/22/2006

Paris transfer, Nord to Bercy
On 6 January, we're arriving on Eurostar at Gare du Nord about noon, and leaving for Venice from Bercy at 8:30pm. In the meantime, we'd like to walk around the old city center and whatever else we have time for.

Obviously we need to leave luggage somewhere. Most of the info on the web is not dated; half of it says left-luggage is closed, and some says it's open in certain stations (and mentions Lyon but not Bercy). So does anyone have current (or at least recent) info for Bercy and Lyon? If Bercy has the service, I'd take it there and then head back to l'Ile de la Cite. Or leave it at Lyon if they're open but Bercy is not.

Next: I've seen descriptions saying Bercy is an "extension" of Lyon, but on the maps it's at least 800 meters and has a different Metro station. Is there something like an underground tunnel which would make it practical to wheel a suitcase 800m, or (assuming left luggage at Lyon but not Bercy) do I need a different plan?

Also, I'd love suggestions for what to do if the weather that day is truly miserable. Thanks much.
Dave
Murrieta, CA USA Fri 12/22/2006

RE: Hotels in Italy - Viki
Viki - We stayed in the Rome Marriott Grand Flora and loved it. The conceirge was very helpful along with the whole staff. It is also in a very nice part of the city and convenient to the subway station. If you like fancy hotels this is a good one.

In Venice we stayed at the Palzzo Sant'Angelo. It is one of the small hotels of the world and was right on the canal. I don't think they had a conceirge, but the front desk was very helpful. The best part was that they have their own waterbus stop.
Kelly
AL USA Fri 12/22/2006

Paris to Milan
Of course I meant VARENNA and not Vernazza on L. Como.
Swan
USA Thu 12/21/2006

Paris Ann
I am sure many will disagree, but you could not pay me to get anywhere near the Moulin Rouge a second time. If you feel you must, I suggest you go on a tour bus, get in and get right out onto a safe bus that will take you back to your hotel. Actually, I suggest you look for something closer to family oriented entertainment in a different neighborhood.
USA Thu 12/21/2006

Paris to Milan
I suggest: Paris, Provence (Avignon, Arles, etc), French Riviera, Italian Riviera (including the Cinque Terre), Milan (with a couple of days in Vernazza, L. Como).
Swan
USA Thu 12/21/2006

Fly in Paris/Out Milan ??????
I am SO confused... so many places I'd like to see.... can anyone give me some advice? We are flying into Paris in June and leaving Milan 13 days later.... But I just can't decide on a good itinerary for in between! Every time I think I have the itinerary down, I watch a Rick Steve's DVD and change my mind.... (We have already been to Venice, Florence, Rome, Naples, Pisa, Sorrento, Capri....) I was thinking about Paris to somewhere in Germany to take a boat on the Rhine then down to Lake Como.... Any and all suggestions are welcome.... Thank you in advance!
Kathy <email>
NJ USA Thu 12/21/2006

For ANN - Boats on the Seine
Ann.... the boats on the Seine from Pont Neuf would be a good idea for you. The website is listed below. If you do a search there may be discount coupons on the website which you can print out and present when you go. You buy your ticket at the boat. I suggest that you take the trip after dark and take your camera along.
George
USA Thu 12/21/2006

Re: Air vs Rail London to Paris
For convenience, ease, comfort, and a relaxing ride, the Eurostar wins hands down. Are you aware that booking a return (roundtrip) ticket and throwing away the unused portion is often cheaper than a single (one-way) ticket? Also fares vary widely depending upon how far in advance you book them, the day of the week, and the time of day. You can book up to 120 days in advance at www.eurostar.com.

Still, to be fair, there are cheaper ways to get to and from Heathrow and CDG. A cash single fare tube ticket is 4.00 GBP (less with an Oyster card). A ticket on the RER from CDG into Paris costs E8.10 and includes transfers to other RER lines and Metro lines so long as you don't exit the system, thus taking you to within easy walking distance of any hotel.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 12/21/2006

Re: Seine Boat Rides
Bateaux Les Vedettes du Pont Neuf would fit your description of smaller boats without dinner. Here's the URL: www.vedettesdupontneuf.com.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 12/21/2006

Re: Sleepsack for Hostels
To reinforce what others have said, do NOT bring a sleeping bag. Most hostels do not allow you to use them. Many hostels provide free sheets. Others charge a rental fee. Another source for sleepsacks is the Travel Store on this very Web site, ricksteves.com.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 12/21/2006

air vs. rail London to Paris
I am conflicted about taking the chunnel vs air from London to Paris in March. I've found cheaper air fare but it seemd to me that by the time you take a cab to Heathrow, stand around waiting for the flight, get your luggage back at Charles Degaul, pay for a cab into Paris it's pretty much a wash money wise and must be better to rail it time and convienince wise, plus, how often do you get to do the chunnel? Any opinions? Anybody care to tip the scale?
Mark <email>
San Francisco, ca USA Thu 12/21/2006

Paris
My friend and I are going to Paris the last week of May 2007. We would like to see a show/cabaret in Paris, it does not have to be the Moulin-Rouge, just something similiar. Has anyone gone to a cabaret show and if so, how did you go about buying the tickets? How far in advance did you buy the tickets? What show did you see? Where would you recommned seating? We do not want to eat dinner, just see a show.

We also want to go on a boat ride on the Seine river. Would like to go on a small boat. Has anyone gone on the boat rides, can you recommned a boat company and did you go in the evening or daytime? We do not want to eat on the boat the lunch or dinner, just the boat ride. Where did you buy the tickets for the boat ride and where did the boat leave from to take the boatride?

Thanks

Any information you can provide on a Paris show or a boat ride would be much appreciated.
Ann
Staten Island , NY USA Thu 12/21/2006

Sleep-sacks & pillows in hostels/dodgy hotels
Sleep-sacks that are basically a folded sheet (not sleeping bags) are fine in hostels. You can buy them ready-made in Sierra Trading Post, Campmor, etc. or make your own from an old, soft sheet that you can then wash and donate (or just leave behind) before you come home. I recommend a lightweight sleep-sack case what you get is, as one person commented, dodgy.

A small (50' x 60') fleece blanket that can be rolled up and double as a soft pillow (that's what I use) is also nice, unless you don't mind whatever type of pillow you end up with. Remember that you can launder a pillowcase, and hostels/hotels do that, but I don't know of any that will launder the pillows after each use! I don't want to sleep with my face on a pillow that many others have slept on, believe me - who knows what's gotten embedded into the pillow stuffing (actually I don’t want to know). Or as someone earlier suggested, take a small travel pillow to use on the plane as well as in your rooms. Anyone with allergies should take their own small pillow and pillow case.
USA Thu 12/21/2006

Hostel sheets/blanket
I've always carried a sleep sack and a lightweight fleece blanket to use in hostels. I usually carry my own small pillow just because I like a lot of pillows and sometimes the hostel ones are kind of flat. I also use this small pillow and the blanket on flights.
Rita
Philadelphia, USA Thu 12/21/2006

Europeans opinion of the US
My daughter and I spent 8 weeks last summer in Europe and visited the following countries: Holland, Belgium, France, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Luxembourg and Czech Republic. Prior to our vist, we were under the impression that Europeans did not like the US or Americans. That was not the case except for a foreign born Parisian that actually did not like France either. When talking to people in each country I always asked why do Europeans dislike the US and Americans. None of them had a negative opinion of the US or Americans. Many said one cannot believe everything they read, etc. Many extended their thanks and gratitude for the English and Americans liberating their country in WW2. Enjoy your trip and never be ashamed of your country and yourself. Be proud!
JB
CA USA Thu 12/21/2006

Re: Sleepsack in hostels
Just so you are aware, a lot of hostels don't want you bringing a sleeping bag so I would check first. If the hostel provides sheets, I wouldn't bring any bedding at all. It's already there! Except maybe a pillow, the ones in hostels tend to be a bit dodgy. Good luck!
Sandra
USA Thu 12/21/2006

Sleep Sack in Hostels
In the hostel the sheets are included, do I still need to make and bring a sleep sack? I going to spend New Years in Hostels and I am bring a sleeping bag but I did not know if I need to make a sleep sack also. Please let me know.
Les
USA Thu 12/21/2006

Your Month in Europe
Mike, for your month-long trip get Rick's Europe Through the Back Door book. It has great suggested itineraries - and it is a great overall travel planning tool. If you don't act like a typical American you will be treated OK in Europe.
Allan <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 12/20/2006

Tell me where to go!
Hi there.

Six years ago I took a fun month going through Europe. I hit London, Amsterdam, Rothenberg ODT, Munich, Gimmelwald, and Paris.

I'm hoping to complement it with another trip to Europe next May (2007), but I'm still figuring out what I want to do. I was thinking of Spain-France-Italy along the Mediterranean coast, but I'm open to other things.

Anyone have any suggestions for my itinerary ? I don't feel like visiting Eastern Europe (at least for this trip), but Scandinavia might be fun. Also prefer to spend most of my time on "the continent". If I get to go again I'll consider a historical tour of London or a trip through Scotland or Ireland.

Other info: I'm a 44 year old male travelling alone. Last time I stayed in hotels I found in the Rick Steve's guides and the Rough Guide - I plan to do that again this time.

Thanks. I don't need to plan out all the details, but I need to have a general idea of what I'm going to do.

Also, what's the current European attitude towards American tourists ? Do I need to travel with a maple leaf on my daypack ?

Thanks again.

- Mike.
Mike <email>
Mountain View, CA USA Wed 12/20/2006

To Squat or Not
Thanks, Swan; we won't even go into more involved processes . . . 8-) Hmm, I think I'd better stick with Germany and the UK! Call me wimpy who will!
Meg Rosenfeld <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 12/20/2006

re: Room Key Cards
I work for a major hotel company and we do not store any personal guest data on a room keycard -- only the room number.
JM
USA Wed 12/20/2006

Personal Info on card keys? and more!
I just checked the myth-buster web site, www.snopes.com, and they say that the story going around about your personal information being encoded onto hotel card-keys is an urban myth.

On another topic, how does a person who can't squat (bad knee, for instance) use those hole-in-the-floor toilets? My guess would be "not at all."
Meg Rosenfeld <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 12/20/2006

Zurich
Communicating will not be a problem in Switzerland.
JB
CA USA Wed 12/20/2006

Scan Key Cards-Safety
I just heard something interesting on a Holiday Travel Tip News program on the radio here in Toronto. They advised not returning your hotel room scan key card to the desk upon check-out stating that they contain downloadable personal info. Are there any current Guest Service Reps out there who can confirm this is accurate. I managed the Front Desk of a major worldwide chain (based in Cda)prior to 911 and can only tell you what happened up until that point. At that time we programmed the room number ONLY using a seperate machine, no way connected to the Guests Folio. The keycards expired at noon checkout on the day of departure. We did reuse these cards as standard procedure. Is there in fact a new type of machine out there that links the Folio to the Key card. Pls post.
Plane Jane YYZ
Toronto , Canada Wed 12/20/2006

Visiting Zurich
Our family will be traveling to Zurich and we only speak English. Will we have difficulty communicating? Also, would appreciate suggestions for reasonable hotels, and where are the flea markets if any.
CBA
New York, NY USA Wed 12/20/2006

Budget Hotel in Barcelona
My family and I are renting a villa in Sitges from Saturday to Saturday. April 28th-May5th. My flight plans are that we are arriving in Barcelona on Friday April 27th and leave on Sunday May 6th. So we will need a hotel in BCN for 1 night at each end.
Kim
Brooklyn, NY USA Wed 12/20/2006

Kim - Barcelona
Why don't you just continue on to Sitges the same day? It's less than a hour's drive away. Probably a bit more on the train.
ERT
USA Wed 12/20/2006

Re: Bruges to Schiphol
You can leave Bruges at 04:14 and arrive at Schiphol at 08:21. There is a four-minute connection time in Gent. You can leave Bruges at 05:57 and arrive at Schiphol at 09:21 (no connection in Gent). No service on weekends at these early times. See www.bahn.de for the timetables.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 12/20/2006

Bruges to Schiphol via Early Train?
I would like to stay in Bruges an extra night on my vacation in the Low Countries. Is it possible to take the train from Bruges to Schiphol for a morning flight? I have an 11:00 AM departure time. Assume I have to arrive at the airport by 9:00 AM. Thinking Bruges is about a three hours train ride from Schiphol, according to the book. Does anyone know if the trains leave Bruges at 6:00 AM? Might be cutting it too close...
Allan <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Tue 12/19/2006

Samos and Athens, Greece
I would appreciate your opinions on: 1. Hotel Aeolis, Samos, Greece? 2. Attalos Hotel in Athens? 3. Dependability of Olympic Airline from Samos to Athens? Going in May.
Linda
USA Tue 12/19/2006

Romantic road/Seth
I forgot, you also asked about time allotment and transportation. Ideally, I'd say at least 3 nights/2 full days in Fussen and area. As for transportation, we always rent a car for the convenience and to see the countryside. My opinion, it's very easy to drive in Germany (outside of the big cities of course).

Paul
Paul <email>
Netcong, NJ USA Tue 12/19/2006

Romantic road / Seth
Hi Seth, Since we haven't been north of Munich, I can only suggest places between Munich and Neuschwanstein. We have been to the area a few times and suggest: Andechs Monestary, good food and beer in the beer garden (indoor and outdoor) and a beautiful church. Wieskirche (Wies Church) is one of the most ornate and beautiful churches we've ever seen. Neuschwanstein, but don't overlook touring Hohenschwangau next to it (Ludwig's boyhood home). Tegelberg cable car and luge ride, (next to) up the road from Neuschwanstein. Fussen. We've stayed in Fussen twice and find it to be a very nice old town to walk around and base ourselves from. Castles are just a few minutes from here. Linderhof Castle, in my opinion, Ludwigs best one as far as the interior goes, not too far from the Fussen area. www.andechs.de www.wieskirche.de www.stadt-fuessen.de www.tegelbergbahn.de www.linderhof.de There are many more places in the area worth visiting but these are some of our favorites. I hope this helps.

Paul
Paul <email>
Netcong, NJ USA Tue 12/19/2006

Peruginia Chocolate Tours
We toured the Peruginia Chocolate Factory several years ago. There were organized tours for schools and for tour groups but we called from the train station and they said it was self-guiding. There were films that started at intervals and other "walk thrus" at set times but we could not discern any real difference between the "tours" we saw groups taking and our own self guided one. Some few free chocolates and many more to buy. A very nice afternoon. We went by bus but I would recommend a taxi as the bus DEPARTURES from nearby were very confusing and sporadic.
Charles M. Luther
USA Tue 12/19/2006

Hostels
Allison: My husband and I (in our 50's which is the new 30's as far as we're concerned!) have stayed at hostels in various countries and always been pleased with the experience.

We are members of Hostelling International - check out the link below and click on the International Hostels link on the left to find hostels in the UK: http://www.hiayh.org/

There are other hostel websites as well - check on Google. There are varying conditions and restrictions, so check with each one you want to try. Taking your own sleepsack is a great idea, as well as your own towel. Some hostels allow you to use your own blanekt or sleeping bag, others don't.

Read up on hostels and you and your mom will be sure to have a great experience.

If you travel at the height of summer (I don't recommend it due to huge crowds and tight accommodations), you must usually book ahead.

You should also check out staying in camping cabins that provide you with beds and usually a tiny kitchenette, cheaper than a hotel and nicer than a tent! Try the links below or check on Google:

http://www.forest-holidays.com/RVE92a0651d26b54de3af6633527c2f9941,,.aspx

Also: http://www.camp-sites.co.uk/

Good luck...and good hostelling!
Phoebe
USA Tue 12/19/2006

Hostels in Bavaria
Based on what I've read and not on personal experience, independent hostels in Bavaria do not have an age limit. It's only the official Hosteling International hostels that do.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 12/19/2006

Re: Ballet Dancer
Greetings It will depend on the countries the dancer is auditioning in, but he/she should be able to find housing in a hostel that is safe (most have lockers for valuables or even private rooms) or contact the ballet companies in question to see if they have reccomendations/

As far as money, I would reccomend a bank card so the dancer can take out cash from ATMs in each country - you get the best rate that way and don't have to worry about finding the rare bank or store that takes traveller's checks. Probably most countries will be on the Euro unless the trip includes the UK or Scandinavia. A credit card is also helpful as an alternative, but in some places some stores may only accept credit cards with European style pin & chip set ups. Also, US debit cards often can't be used as such here, but only to get money from the bank. Remember that the dollar is weak in Europe, so make sure you alot enough in the budget for meals and necessities. And an emergency stash in case the dancer has a pointe shoe/leotard etc. emergency and needs to get new ones on the road.

I would reccomend that the dancer familiarize themselves with the local public transportation systems - get good maps - because being late to an audition is a no no. Companies want to know that any potential dancer can take of themself because while they can help new dancers settle in, they can't be 'babysitters'.

Also, I would make sure the dancer ivests in decent luggage which will survive European cobblestones, be comfortable to carry around and also not overpack. Remembering the limits on carry-on luggage these days, I would suggest one wheeled bag/duffle and one carry on (an possibly a small purse that go in the carry on). Judicious use of local laundromats should reduce the number of leotards/tights/warm ups that need to be brought You can find laundromats here - ask the companies, look in guidebooks or search on the web. Tights and leotards should also be fine to wash in a sink and hang dry.

So perhaps it would be a good idea for the dancer to get on the web and do some research on local laundromats, dance stores (in case he/she needs to get somehing whilst in Europe), public transportation and audition locations.

As to medical - health insurance is a must if we're talking about a dancer. Unless you are a citizen of an EU country or a resident of an EU country, you will have to pay for anything but initial emergency care. And it's not cheap. If there's anyone else from the dancer's school/company who has done the audition tour thing, perhaps they would have suggestions on insurance.

But most of all, best of luck to the dancer - I hope they have a great time because there are some fabulous dance companies in Europe (like the Royal Danish Ballet, which I've been visiting this week).

Kate
Scotland Tue 12/19/2006

Romantic road
I am visting Cologne in April with my girlfriend. We are thinking about traveling to and along the Romantic Road to the Neuschwanstein Castle.

Any tips on best route, can't miss places, time allotment, means of transportation, and anything else would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you in advance.
Seth <email>
Philly, PA USA Tue 12/19/2006

TRAVELING WITH MOM IN A HOSTEL
Allison: My wife and I are 80 and always stay in hostels when we find one in a town we choose to stay in.

Only in Bavaria where the upper age limit is 27 will they prohibit us. We can nearly always find a room for two.

We have never stayed in a dorm room. If you search the web you can find a hostel with private rooms where you want to stay.
USA Tue 12/19/2006

Hair Dryers
Every year on our trip to Europe my wife worries about hair dryers, and I always assure her it will be no problem...and it's never a problem. In making inquiries about reservations, my emails always ask about hair dryers, and about half neglect to address them. Websites then help in some cases, sometimes telling us of their availability. Those few places we stay where we are unsure of their availability, we have always found the hotel has a hair dryer behind the desk for the asking. (That is very fortunate, as I would end up having to scour whichever little town we're in to find one.)
Ron <email>
DeWitt, MI USA Tue 12/19/2006

Re: Allison, Hostels
Most hostels in Europe take all ages, in fact many her age use the hostels. The only area that will not is in Bavaria, they restrict the age, and possibly in a few other odd areas. Hostels in Europe have also changed, many offer family rooms and doubles in addition to the dorm style rows of bunk beds. My experience though, is that I can get a private room in a small hotel or home for about the same price. So compare.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 12/19/2006

Traveling with Mom in a hostel?
I'm traveling with my mother (59 yo) to Great Britian in 2007 (prob Spring/Fall), both our first trip to Europe. I'm 29 yo and have traveled on a budget, shared baths, etc. in Central America, but never stayed in hostel in Europe. I've told her if we are on a budget, she may have to 'bunk it' a few nights in a hostel. BUT, do hostels take 50+ yo Mom's? I feel that I need to take this into consideration for our travel budget/plans. Help!
Allison <email>
Tallahassee, FL USA Mon 12/18/2006

Queen Anne's
Use Tripadvisor:

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g186346-d497629-Reviews-Queen_Anne_s_Guest_House-York_North_Yorkshire_England.html
Tim
USA Mon 12/18/2006

Queen Anne's Guest House, York, England
Wondering if anyone can comment on Queen Anne's Guest House in York, England. Rick recommends it, but we haven't seen any reader reviews.
JSC
Pittsburgh, PA USA Mon 12/18/2006

DRIVING TOUR IN EASTERN EUROPE
Charli: I drove from Frankfurt to Krakow to Budapest to Bratislava to Prague back to Frankfurt and found the roads very good.

Even the back roads were better than I had expected. Only problem you may have is reading road signs in some areas.

And remember the speed limit in villages is sometimes not posted....limit is usually 30 kph.

The police will stop you if you exceed the limit.

We stay in zimmers and enjoy seeing how the real people live.
USA Mon 12/18/2006

Eastern Europe
I loved Slovakia! I recommend visiting Levoca (old town on a hill with a circuit wall and beautiful buildings) and staying at the Hotel U Leva (great value). If you're feeling energetic it's worth hiking in the Tatras. You can read my trip report at www.wilhelmswords.com/eur2006.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Mon 12/18/2006

To Forrest RE: London Victoria
Forrest -- there are numerous pubs and restaurants in the Victoria area. You should not have a problem finding one that you like. A few pubs that come to mind are the Cardinal (right behind Westminster Cathedral to the south), the Colonies (same area but north of the Cathedral and Victoria St off of Palace St and Castle Lane) and the Duke of York (almost directly opposite the Victoria train station.) The Duke of York is a great lunch place as well as a pre-theater meeting spot. As far as thing to do goes, its London -- you will easily find things to do for a week. If you like Thai food, try the Churchill Arms not far from the Notting Hill Gate Tube stop (Circle Line from Victoria). Churchill's is regularly rated a top London pub; it just happens to have a fabulous Thai restaurant at the back. Enjoy!
Tom
St. Louis, MO USA Mon 12/18/2006

Driving Tour in Eastern Europe
My husband and I are palnning a trip to Hungary, the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic. We will be there for 2 weeks and will be driving. Any suggestions will be appreciated. Oh, we plan on going in September 2007. Thanks again!!!
Charli
Orange County, CA USA Mon 12/18/2006

Ballet Dancers
Are there any ballet dancers out there who have done an audition tour of Europe and who may have any useful hints for a young dancer? Dancers don't have much money but security could be an issue if they have to travel alone - and besides a backpack, they have to travel with large dance bags, etc. Communicating with family in Canada and the UK, personal security, best type of money to take for multiple countries and medical.
BEH <email>
canada Mon 12/18/2006

Hair dryer or not?
As other people have said, email the hotel directly and ask them if the rooms have hairdryers or not and, if not, can one be borrowed at the front desk. If the hotel has a website, you can usually see what's included and what's available.

You're right that damp hair is not an option in cold temperatures! And be aware that travel hairdryers with dual voltage, while very lightweight for the most part, don't always have the power of a regular dryer that's single-voltage once you switch to 220/240. You may be disappointed at the output.
Phoebe
USA Mon 12/18/2006

Perugina Chocolate Factory Tour
Visiting Italy in March 2007 and can not get current info on tours of Perugina Chocolate Factory. Factory email has not responded to my query. Postings about tours have older dates and heard they are no longer open to public. Is this true?
Marion
Denver, CO USA Mon 12/18/2006

call shops
earlscourt underground just across road
vince
USA Mon 12/18/2006

budget hotel barcelona
hotel torreadore
ingrid
london, can Mon 12/18/2006

Budget Hotel in Barcelona
Does anyone know of a well located, inexpensive hotel in Barcelona?? Around $100 USD. I will be there for just one night on my way to Sitges Spain in late April 07. Thanks-Kim
Kim
Brooklyn, NY USA Mon 12/18/2006

APARTMENT RENTAL IN DOLOMITES
David: Having done this several times, I can recommend these steps for you.

First browse some guide books at your local library for places to visit.

Then get a good map of the area and study the distances to the sights you want to visit.

Then research the hotels, hostels and B&Bs to select one that is centrally located.

I always make an itinerary for the number of days I have available in the area to plan where I go and what I see each day. And I list the number of miles round trip to those places.

If possible I always inspect the apartment before agreeing to rent it so I can make sure it meets my needs. Italians are easy to negotiate with; so I would make an offer on the apt. I hardly every accept the first cost on anything in Italy.
USA Mon 12/18/2006

Prehistoric Sites in France
Peche Merle is quite close to Cahors. You can reserve a tour, and there is a car park at the site. You should be aware that the road into Montignac, the town where Lascaux II is located, gets horrendously jammed during tourist season (unless they've done something about it since we were there). If you have a reservation, that's where you need to allow plenty of time to get through the town and to find parking to get to the TI office. Knowing what I know now, I would stay in the town the night before my tour. If you go to Les Eyzies, be sure to see L'Abri du Cap Blanc, a sculptured frieze of horses, quite different from paintings. We also liked the Gouffre de Padirac. No paintings, but an enormous cave system, deep underground. The tour includes a portion with a boat ride on an underground river.
USA Sun 12/17/2006

Peche Merle and Puycelci for Karen
I think you can do this if you get two things: reservations at Peche Merle (since it is high season), and an early start. You could visit Cahors first, if that helps.

I hesitate to suggest anything else, but lovely St Cirq is enroute between Peche Merle and Cahors.

Peche Merle is wonderful! Don't miss it. Have a great time.
Adam
Boston, USA Sun 12/17/2006

Oradour-sur-Glane with Lascaux II...
Hello- I am hoping for some advice from you ever- helpful RSers who have possibly driven this route by car, in early July, for my trip next summer I am in the process of sketching out: picking up rental car early am in Amboise after two nights there (via train from Paris), drive to Oradour (allow about two hours of time there?) then continue on to Lascaux II if I can reserve a mid-afternoon tour- we then are staying in Beynac for the next three nights to explore the rest of the caves (big interest for me!), see Sarlat's market, canoe...before moving south. Still having the car, is it feasible to see Peche Merle on the way to a few hours in Cahors, before staying two nights in Puycelci? I am using Rick's and other maps for my sketching, but that doesn't take crowds, parking, etc into account that some of you may have experienced! Or, anything else you want to share. Food/wine is not important- caves, hikes, and the canoe concept are! THANK YOU!
Karen
USA Sun 12/17/2006

England driver/guide?
We are considering getting a private driver/guide for England for a couple days next summer. Anyone have any recommendations for the London area up through the Cotswolds? Has anyone used Harry Norman? thanks
John Dodd <email>
Orange County, CA USA Sun 12/17/2006

Apartment or Condo rental in the Dolomites?
Hello, My wife, myself and our two boys ages 11 and 13 years are planning a 3 week trip to Northern Italy in late June to early July of 2007. We hope to spend a week or so exploring the Trentino-Alto Adige region of the Dolomites. I'm considering renting an apartment or condo to base out of. Any reccomendations or thoughts from travelers who had done this would be appreciated. Regards, David Fremont Ca
David Martinez <email>
Fremont, Ca USA Sun 12/17/2006

Re: Comment regarding 90 Day visa limit
Someone commented about having a limit of 90 days in Europe; this is true only depending on the countries you are visiting. Generally, you do not need a visa for visits up to ninety days, and have a 90 day limit in 180 days for each country or entity. The Schengen Treaty is what controls the common European Visa, not membership in the EU. So you have only 90 days in Schengen member countries as a whole, not each country. What this means for travel is that days spent outside the Schengen area do not count towards the 90 days, they only count towards that countries limits. Notable countries not in the Schengen Treaty include Great Britain, Ireland, Croatia, Turkey, and several other East European Countries. Currently Switzerland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Poland, and Hungary have signed, but will not implement until 12/31/2007. So really, you have may options to extend your stay, and could do so pretty much indefinitely if you move around.
Paul <email>
IA USA Sun 12/17/2006

Leave Hairdryer at Home
I bought a travel hairdryer - lightweight and has the switch so you can change to the higher voltage in Europe. I still needed the plug adapter though as this was a standard 2 prong plug and needs the adapter (different from a converter) that fits into the wall. Since we need to have that adapter now for digital camera battery charger it is not too much of a problem.

Having said this - I haven't had to bring a hairdyer in the past 3 years as our last several trips - Ireland, London, India, Prague, Germany - all the places we stayed had a hairdryer either in the room or one at the front desk to borrow. This was true in small B&B's as well as larger hotels.

After I make a reservation, besides confirming dates, type of beds requested, non smoking (when possible) etc. I also confirm availability of hairdryer. I've been pleasantly surprised that I haven't had to without in any of the places we have chosen to stay.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Sun 12/17/2006

Hotels in Italy
I have been trying to narrow down hotels to stay at in Italy and was hoping I could get some advice. I'm looking for a great location with concierge, clean and safe hotel. These are what I have found. Any suggestions would be appreciated as to which you would recommend.

Milan: Park Hyatt, Principe di Savoia, De La Ville

Florence: Helvetia and Bristol, De La Ville, Hotel Savoy, Santa Croce

Rome: Minerva, Excelsior, Intercontintal Hotel De La Ville, Sofitel, Savoy, Marriott

Also will be in Venice and somewhere on the Amalfi Coast but not sure where yet so recommendations on those areas would be nice as well. Any suggestions on which hotels above would also be appreciated. Although these are high end hotels I'm not necessarily looking to see how much I can spend but will be traveling with my daughter and want to be sure the hotel is safe and has excellent concierge service since I will be needing them for transportation and scheduling activities in and around the areas. That said my daughter is 17.
Vicki <email>
USA Sun 12/17/2006

Paris: Hotel Lotti
Any comments will be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Jeff
NJ USA Sat 12/16/2006

ELECTRIC CONVERTER
Julie: Go to your Target store and buy a lightweight converter. I carry one of theirs and it is smaller than a pound of butter and much lighter. Inexpensive too.
USA Sat 12/16/2006

Call shop in London
Hi! Looking for call shops in London. Heard there was one at Victoria Station but would like some other locations. Thanks!
Cassie <email>
USA Sat 12/16/2006

Re: hairdryer
Julie, if you are going to stay in one place the entire time and will be leaving it in the hotel only packing it to and from the airport (in rollable luggage I hope) than you'll be fine. Any more than one city and I'd start to worry.
Sandra
Puyallup, WA USA Sat 12/16/2006

Hairdryer
For Julie....Leave the hairdryer at home. Email the hotel and ask if they are provided in the room and if not, can they loan you one that works on local current. As a last resort, buy one when you get there. We haven't had to buy one yet.
George
USA Sat 12/16/2006

IMO, a converter is too much weight to carry with you around Europe. A lot of hair dryers have a 120V-240V switch so you can use them here and over there. If your current one doesn't, look for one that does; they are available. Alternatively, buy a hair dryer over there.
<email>
USA Sat 12/16/2006

Electric Converter
Help, I am traveling to London in a week and have been going round and round with Electric Converters for my hairdryer. I bought an Austin House Micro 26-1875 Watt converter and adapter plug. I have been searching on the internet and mostly read go without. In 30-40 degree temps that is not an option. I do not relish blowing up my dryer or the hotel electric.
Julie Eichas <email>
Rochester, NY USA Sat 12/16/2006

To Kate from Scotland !!!
RE: Itenerary and also German Accident >>5. I´ll be at least 3 months in Europe

Are you aware that unless you hold a passport from an EU country, that you are not permitted to stay more than 3 months in Europe. Some countries will issue you a tourist visa for up to 6 months, but you have to apply prior to leaving the US and be able to clearly show that you have enough funds for food, housing, medical expenses and other living expenses because you cannot work in Europe without a formal work permit.

To Kate: I know it´s kinda late, but thanks for the info very much !!!
AJ <email>
Las Vegas, NV USA Sat 12/16/2006

Paris Hotel
My favorite hotel is Hotel Des Grandes Ecole. It is at 75 rue du Cardinal Lemoine, up the street from Cardinal Lemoine metro stop. It is owned by a mother and daughter and is reasonably priced and there is a wonderful optional breakfast. You have to book early - they take reservations three months in advance - many return guests. There is a wonderful macrobiotic restaurant a block away. I stayed near Rue Cler with my husband in October and it was also nice. The neighborhood is everything Rick Steves says it is. The only drawback - which others might not see as such - was that it seemed everyone in the restaurants and shops spoke English so there was no chance to use my french and there were so many Americans in the hotels and restaurants. (Everyone had a Rick Steves book too!) At Des Grandes Ecole and that neighborhood, it has always felt like a better cross-section of Europeans with a few Americans. (All Americans I have met there have had Rick's book there too - it is a really great guide) . I also thought the metro stop was more convenient than the Rue Cler area.
Judy Warner <email>
Victor, NY USA Fri 12/15/2006

Blades & Cherry Court Hotels-London
I've stayed at the Blades (great hotel, a great value, and Kevin is a riot.) Belgrave Road has traffic all night, and it's pretty busy, even in the wee hours. That's it -- just the constant rumble of traffic. There's no people traffic, though. That stretch of Belgrave is just hotels -- the pubs and restaurants are a block or two away, so there is little pedestrian noise.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Fri 12/15/2006

Blades & Cherry Court Hotels--London
JSC -- quiet is always a relative issue. We have stayed in C Court and it was fine -- for us. No problem. It is an urban area near a train station, with open windows there is some noise. We always carry ear plugs if noise becmes a problem. Works for us.
Frank P., <email>
Centennial, CO USA Fri 12/15/2006

Blades & Cherry Court Hotels--London
Have read the glowing reviews of the Blades and Cherry Court Hotels in London. Any insights on how quiet each is given their location?
JSC
Pittsburgh, PA USA Fri 12/15/2006

Re: Air India
We flew Air India to Frankfurt in September with no problem. The seats on our plane were the standard US domestic marginal in terms of comfort, but that was the only complaint. The food was good and the staff were friendly. One curious item of note is that we did notice more babies than usual on a trans-Atlantic flight.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 12/15/2006

Air India, Trip Advisor
Regarding Air India, my son has flown it with no problems.

Trip Advisor: I use it all the time. Just keep in mind that some of its reviewers travel more luxuriously than the typical Rick Steves traveler. I've seen bad reviews on perfectly OK hotels.
Karen <email>
MN USA Fri 12/15/2006

Hotel in Paris for Jacquie
I second the recommendation for Hotel Valadon in Paris. We've stayed here on 2 occasions and found it very convenient , clean, friendly, and fairly priced.
Pat
ps USA Fri 12/15/2006

Air India
Thinking about utilizing Air India to Paris. Any comments appreciated.
Jeff
NJ USA Thu 12/14/2006

Zermatt
Zermatter Hof is very nice... a bit $$$ but vwey nice and right in middle of town!
Tom
CA, USA Thu 12/14/2006

Have you stayed in a particular hotel?
You would be better benefitted to go to www.tripadvisor.com and read reviews from people who actually stayed in these places. You could probably make your decision much faster and with more information.
Tim
USA Thu 12/14/2006

Hotel Alpenstern in Zermatt?
Traveling to CH in Jan. Has anyone stayed at the Hotel Bristol or Hotel Alpenstern in Zermatt?
Bob <email>
Alachua, fl USA Thu 12/14/2006

Help with Paris Hotel
Jacquie, I just went thru the same search, we were in Paris in October. We stayed at Hotel Valadon in the 7th. It is around the corner from Rue Cler. There are many restaurants and stores near the hotel. It is about a 10 minute walk from the Eiffel Tower. Ten minute walk maybe less to the Metro (Ecole Militaire station). It is a small hotel owned by a couple that are very nice and extremely helpful. Breakfast is included nothing extravagant but was sufficient, they also a place where you can keep add'l food items if you wish. There is a lift. The hotel was very clean, bathroom very modern. Rooms on the small side (common in Europe) but very nice. I don't know if they have queen or king beds as I was with my mother and we had twins.

Check out their website www.hotelvaladon.com
NYC, USA Thu 12/14/2006

Paris Hotels
I would recommend these hotels. They are not in Rick's books, but they should be:

http://www.hotel-hospitel.com/ang/accueil.htm (located next door to Notre Dame)

http://www.hotel-langlois.com/

I had the Langlois booked for Summer 2006 Paris trip, but cancelled and opted for the Hotel La Bourdonnais because it was mentioned in Rick's Paris book.

I should have listened to my first instincts. Just goes to show that Rick's recommendations are not always the best recommendations.
Tim
USA Thu 12/14/2006

Paris Hotel for Jacquie
Rick Steves recommends the Hotel Bastille Speria near the Place de la Bastille (www.hotel-bastille-speria.com). I stayed there this past summer and loved it. Feel free to e-mail me for more specifics.
jason <email>
co USA Thu 12/14/2006

Budget accommodation in Bordeaux
Ann: You can do a google.com search for sights in the Bordeaux area. Read about them and decide which you want to see.

I suggest hostels because I have stayed in them in over 15 countries with great pleasure. Do a search for “Bordeaux hostels”.
MARY ANN W.
NYC, NY USA Thu 12/14/2006

BEST PLACE TO VISIT IN MARCH
Nicole: I agree with Jake (below). Do your own research on Google and read about the facilities offered.

Only you can decide what you like and someone’s choice may not be yours.

If you search every city you like you can read about all the attractions for each one and decide which you like best.
USA Thu 12/14/2006

Help With Paris Hotel
I've done quite a bit of research on a nice hotel for our upcoming trip, with the result that I've become totally and completely overwhelmed with all the possibilities. I'm sure that a knowledgeable Paris person can assist me.

We will be in Paris for a week but don't want to rent an apartment (for reasons that work for us).

This is what we would "like" to have in a hotel:

1. Location in 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 7th or 8th arrondissement. z 2. Near public transportation. 3. Our price range is 100 to 150 Euros (hopefully). 4. Hotel with a lift (mobility problems on my part). Not essential, as I would be happy to request a room on a low floor. 5. Area with some shops, restaurants and interesting places to see.

Three hotels that seem to be good are (1) Hotel Victoires Opera, (2) Hote du Louvre and (3) Hotel Residence Monge. Any info on those hotels would be appreciated.

Also, in doing research it seems that queen size or king size beds only come with the more expensive rooms. Asking because hubby is a good sized boy ... LOL. Again, not a deal breaker, as on our trip in November we stayed in a hotel with twin beds. Not the best of all worlds, but workable.

We are trying to be flexible and open-minded about our accomodations. Not seeking something to rival the Ritz on our budget, but hoping for clean and quiet. We want our first trip to Paris to be memorable.

Thanks in advance for any info you can provide.
Jacquie <email>
St. Petersburg, FL USA Thu 12/14/2006

American Express in Italy
AE might not be as widely accepted but we used it in the AE office in Roma to book train tickets for us (have to have to card to use the service). Language is not a problem there and it was cool inside. I’m a belt and suspenders person so I think it’s a good back-up. And they can get you cash or help in other ways if you need it.
Ann Marie
Seattle, WA USA Wed 12/13/2006

Paris Lodging
Looking for a reasonably priced apartment for a week in Paris in early Sept. Any suggestions? If you have a hotel or Bed and breakfast idea, we'll gladly check that out, too. Looking for convenience to public transport, and a safe neighborhood. Thanks
Shar
AZ USA Wed 12/13/2006

Victoria Station Food
My husband and I have been staying at the Victoria Thistle twice a year for more than ten years. There are great places to eat in the area. Right across the street from the station is a pub/resturant call the Shakespear. It has good English "pies" (like Steak and Ale and Shephard's), fish and chips, etc. There is a Spaghetti House across the street and down around the corner from the theatres-- good value. Many places to eat in the station itself- fast food to mid-price chains like Garfields- similar to Friday's in the US. Mark's and Spenser's Just Food, Sainsbury's and Whistlestop groceries in the station as well as a great cheese shop.
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA Wed 12/13/2006

Apartment rental for 1 month
I am searching for 1 bedroom self-catering rentals in Sicily, Tuscany, Salzberg for the month of June, 2007. So far I seem not to be getting a lot of good websites that have listings. I am looking for suggestions about the above areas or any other place in Italy, Austria, or Greece. Thanks.
Jan <email>
Lake Charles, LA USA Wed 12/13/2006

To Forrest - London Victoria Station
I just ate at Victoria Station last week. They have a Mark's & Spencer Simply Food which is a mini grocery quick service food chain selling mostly prepared foods for very cheap and packaged to eat cold or microwave. They also have a Pret A Manager which is along the same lines but selling mostly sandwiches. You will also find many restaurants and pubs within walking distance of the station. Not to worry, you will have plenty of options upon arrival.
Lisa <