Travelers' Helpline: March 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.
re: Stacie - Norther Italy
Folks - Stacie says she has SEVEN DAYS. She is already talking about Milan, Venice, Lake Como. People are suggesting she add Cinque Terre, San Gimigiano (sp?) and other stops on top of that?! Not just a bad idea - probably physically impossible. If you have a week, I'd suggest limiting the itinerary to a maximum of 3 places. Just my 2 cents.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Fri 03/31/2006
Josie - SICILY SEPT 2006
Trains are not real handy in Sicily. Buses not real great either, unless you have lots of time. Public transit in Sicily is not nearly as easy as elsewhere in Italy. We had limited time, and decided a rental car was the only option that really made any sense. Driving was a little exciting at times but not a problem. Wonderful stuff to see there.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Fri 03/31/2006
SICILY SEPT 2006
I would like to know about traveling thru Sicily I will be going from Rome to Palermo then to Cefalu, Agrigento and to Sciacca what would be the best way to get around I would like bus or train but would not rule out driving
Thanks
JOSIE <email>
SAN MATEO, Ca USA Fri 03/31/2006
NORTHERN ITALY JUNE 2006
Ditto CC. Cinque Terre was by far the best place. Another neat place is San Giminao (spelling?) and by accident, we drove by the WWII American Cemetery which was another nice stop.
Raquel
St. Louis, MO USA Fri 03/31/2006
Airfares-opinion
If you find a fare that you are OK with-book it. After 5 yrs of European travel this has worked for me and I travel in summer mostly. Of course check some like British Airlines, Air France and Icelandair which are running some specials. Don't wait any longer anything from western USA approx $900 plus taxes is about right for summer travel.Some airports like Zurich for United Airlines also seem to be a better value.
JS
Ca USA Fri 03/31/2006
DIRECTIONS TO THE ROMANTIC ROAD.
CP: Everyone is enamored with the Romantic Road. It is the name. Nothing romantic aboutit.
Personally I was disappointed with it. After having driven all 12 countries of W Europe, I see no difference in the towns you drive through.
From Munich I would drive directly to Rothenburg. The only interesting part, which I have visited 3 times, is Rothenburg. Skip the rest.
MARY ANN W.
WACO, TX USA Fri 03/31/2006
NORTHERN ITALY JUNE 2006
Stacie:
Make Milan home base because it is centrally located. Good, fast roads to Venice and Lake Como region. You will find the toll roads in Italy costly.
My choice for any other free time will be to visit Cinque Terre. It is the most unique part of southern Europe.
We spent a week there last year and would go back in a New York minute.
Do your research of places to see in each area and especially CT.
CC
TULSA, OK USA Fri 03/31/2006
HELSINKI AND ST PETERSBURG
Laurie: if you do some research on Helsinki to STPB trains you will find that the Finnish train is preferred.
We were too late to get reservations on it and had to ride the Russian train.
Not much fun. About 100 years old with dark, drab furnishings. Poor service also.
We left at 3 pm and arrived at 11 pm. We had a private compartment alone with lots of room.
We had to check with the female conductor every time we wanted to go down the aisle to the restroom.
Make your reservations on the Finnish train as early as you can.
I would prefer 4 days to see STPB. I cant recommend a hotel because we stayed with friends. If you don’t get better help, try this page:www.besthotelsrussia.com/search_results.
RAB CYRA
DALLAS, TX USA Fri 03/31/2006
FYI - flooding in Europe
Not sure if this concerns anyone, but if you are traveling to the areas affected, nice to have a heads up.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20060331/sc_afp/czechgermanyslovakia_060331182229
USA Fri 03/31/2006
Driving maps for Germany and Switzerland
Gary,
I was looking for maps a while ago, and I felt Michelin would be the best. The best price I found for Michelin maps was on www.travelessentials.com.
Are they still the best price. I don't know, but check them out.
CO USA Fri 03/31/2006
Driving maps for Germany and Switzerland
I'm going to be driving through Germany and Switzerland this summer. What maps would you recommend I use to find my way around? My rental car will have a GPS but I also want to have great maps available. Thanks for your help.
Gary <email>
Cary, NC USA Fri 03/31/2006
Lockers in Bruges train station
How large are the lockers at the train station in Bruges, Belgium? Are they big enough for a carry on size suitcase with wheels?
Amelia S. <email>
Tucson, AZ USA Fri 03/31/2006
Helsinki and St. Petersburg, Russia
We are traveling by train/ferry from Copenhagen to St. Petersburg in Aug. via Stockholm and Helsinki.If you have been to St. Petersburg, we would appreciate any hotel recommendations--walking distance to city center and would like to spend around $100 per room. Also restaurant recommendations would be welcome. If you have traveled from Helsinki to St. Petersburg by train, we would appreciate any tips--which train line etc. Also, how many days do you recommend for St. Petersburg 2-4?
Thanks so much for your help!!
Laurie <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Fri 03/31/2006
Airfair
Book NOW, I heard through a travel agent once that most airlines start to raise their rates starting in early April...it's not gonna go down!
Erika
Edmonds, WA USA Fri 03/31/2006
Airfare Question
Kelly, go ahead and book flights. You won't see much change between now and August from what I have been reading.
Sally <email>
USA Fri 03/31/2006
Paris pastry class
I will be in Paris for three weeks at the end of May and would love to take a pastry class. Does anyone know if that is possible, and if so, how?
Dave <email>
USA Fri 03/31/2006
Airfare question
I don't know if I should book our flights now, or wait. We are flying into Paris Aug 29th and out of madrid Sept 11th (our dates are not too flexible). Prices have been hovering between $940 and $1,000 for about 5 weeks now. Should I book now expecting the prices only to go up? Or should I wait it out to see if they go down a bit? Any suggestions are greatly appreciated!
Kelly <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Fri 03/31/2006
re: Stacie, Italy
Stacie, I agree with DB! I, too, thought Venice would be a tourist trap nightmare that just had to be "done," but wound up loving it (we spent 2 nights - adequate, if you can spare one from your plan). Since you have a car, and since Venice and Como will both be tourist-heavy, you might want to just find a little non-Steves town to soak up the other days. We went to Cremona for other reasons and it was fun to be in a place without other Americans to speak of, or even tourists in general. Gave us a glimpse into regular town life.
Kristin
Bellevue, WA USA Fri 03/31/2006
Stacie - Northern Italy
Stacie - I'm pretty sure that one night in Venice will leave you wishing you had more time to spend there. Unless you've been there before, I'd give Venice at least one more day, maybe two. Yes, it'll be mobbed with tourists. Yes, it's expensive. But it's a pretty amazing place. (On my first trip to Italy, I figured Venice would be something of a cliche, a tourist trap that I had to do but only briefly; my wife wanted us to plan on several days...we compromised on 2 1/2 days there, and as we were leaving I really wished we had planned another day or two). Somehow, I'd carve another day or two out of your itinerary for Venice. If you don't, you might be kicking yourself as you leave (like I was).
DB
Seattle, WA USA Fri 03/31/2006
Prescriptions
At least in the UK, the prescription must be written by a UK-licensed doctor. I would suspect that this is the case across the EU. Generally, if you have a foreign prescription, you need to make an appointment with a doctor in the country where you are located, and they will generally rewrite the prescription for you.
Also be aware that many drugs here are in their generic form, and even doctors won't always know the US trade names (For instance, no-one here knows what Advil is). Thus it's a good idea to have the generic names of the drugs written down.
I think you will be fine if you have the original prescription bottle. In an emergency you can go to the hospital or call the closest US Embassy/Consulate, who usually have a list of locol doctors who will see non-EU patients (Those of who are EU residents have a EU Medical Card).
Kate
Scotland Fri 03/31/2006
Northern Italy Itinerary June '06
Hello, I have Rick's book on Italy but I am in a quandry on how to best plan 7 days in northern Italy. We are flying in and out of Milan. We are staying one night in Venice and three in Lake Como. Beyond that I am clueless where to go. We are renting a car and debating between Vincenzia and other small towns around that area. Any suggestions are most welcome, please feel free to email me.
Stacie <email>
Boston, Ma USA Fri 03/31/2006
Handbag for travel
My wife swears by the bag by Tilley Endurables http://www.tilley.com/thumbnail.asp?catId=14&gender=w&extractBy=CategoryId&id=5
She has the tapestry one, but it is also available in plain colors. It has an ingenious closure using gravity and the straps which makes it virtually impossible to open unless you lean it on something. The strap is long enough to be used diagonally and can be doubled to use as a "hand" bag. There are sturdy inserts to counteract it being slit by a knife It is roomy enough for her compact SLR camera, travel documents, as well as all that "women stuff"!
Iain
Edmonton, AB Canada Fri 03/31/2006
RE: Directions from Munich train station to Romantic Road
CP, what part of the Romantic Road do you want to drive? If you want to drive the entire length, you would have to start in Füssen. On the other hand you can see a lot of it starting in Augsburg.
Either way, you can get driving instructions from www.viamichelin.co.uk. Click on "Driving directions". Put in Hauptbahnhof for address, Munich for city and Augsburg or Fuessen.
From Füssen to Rothenburg is about 5 hours by car, and, according to Rick, not much on it is worth more than a few minutes stop. Nördlingen and Dinkelsbühl are interesting walled cities, but not as good as Rothenburg, and you are going there anyway.
<email>
USA Fri 03/31/2006
Handbag for travel
I, too, had been forever searching for the perfect travel bag...until last year when I found the Ameribag. http://www.ameribag.com/
The zipper pulls are unaccessible to pickpocketers, and it is very comfortable and has tons of little pockets to organize everything. It fits well across the chest, also, to ward of theives! As you can tell, I love it ;)
Callie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Fri 03/31/2006
Directions from Munich train station to Romantic Road
I am picking up a rental car at the main train station in Munich and driving to Rothenburg via the Romantic Road. I would appreciate help with directions from the train station to where I get onthe Romantic Road.
CP
WI USA Fri 03/31/2006
Sleeping & Jet Lag
Experts seem to agree that jet lag is not so much a problem of lack of sleep but of re-setting your circadian clock to the new time zone.
Sleeping pills generally do not do this though they might knock you out.
I find melatonin, diet, and light to all be helpful in resetting the clock, though I've never gotten more than a few hours sleep on an airplane.
I have had good luck with 3 mg of melatonin at 6 p.m. on departure day, then at 10 p.m. local time the first night there. That's going; I don't so much care about jet lag coming back.
On my last trip on the advice of a friend I also took a dose at 6 p.m. for a few days before departure. This definitely helped, but it sure made packing difficult! as I was ready to turn un for the day by about 8 p.m.
That said, melatonin is a hormone and serious stuff. I wouldn't use it longterm without talking to a doctor. And I guess it does not work for everyone.
The diet is less controversial but fussier; there is a book about it. I find it worth the trouble.
Best advice is still, reset your watch when you get on the plane, skip dinner (or have a light carb-only snack early), put on a sleep mask to block out the light, curl up and at least pretend to sleep, and get plenty of daylight the morning you arrive, even if it is through a window.
Adam
Boston, USA Fri 03/31/2006
Book ahead during summer-even Hostels
To both Taylor & Liz-I would suggest you book your hostels ahead of time. Especially if you have your trip pretty much laid out. Forgoing a bit of flexibility is worth it to get a place you feel comfortable. My teen daughter and friends went to Europe last summer and were surprised to find many hostels already booked when they started to plan. There are several hostel review websites and they used these to find the "best hostel in Rome". Some of what makes a good hostel apparantly is Internet access. These places are geared toward the younger wired generation and so are booking up ahead of time just as the smaller hotels/b&b's. During the summer season, if you are at all concerned about safety (i.e. young women traveling alone), you will probably feel better having a place to go to when you arrive as opposed to walking around an unfamiliar city. The hostels my daughter booked were all online - they could look at the website, see the dorm style rooms, etc. It also alleviated some concerns that the parents had. I know everyone wants the feeling of being free & easy, but truthfully, the best and most "local" places I've stayed are the ones I've researched ahead of time. When we have arrived (again, I stress during summer travel season) without reservations we almost always end up in a dingy American-style hotel that costs more than the lovely B&B down the street.
Karen
Atlanta, GA USA Fri 03/31/2006
Sleeping on Planes
I drink no caffeine after my usual cup of coffee early in the morning of departure. I use a neck pillow and drink only water on the plane. I usually get about 3 hours of sleep in the air and feel reasonably normal that first day. Most of my sleeping is in 20-30 minute naps, but it still works. My new project is to sleep on the way home in the middle of the day. Returning jet-lag is sometimes worse than the west-east kind.
Swan
USA Fri 03/31/2006
Paris---burning---Paul
You are right Paul. I did live and work there for a while. The gps and other military communication systems that our boys used to launch that devasting take-out at the beginning of the war in Iraq is French. For our military requirements, it was the best in the word. FranceTelecom runs it and I worked with them. I found those folks to be A-One and keep in contact with several of them. They aren't collegues any longer, just friends who send me e-mails, news precis, clippings they think interest me. They tell me what's in THEIR newspapers and THEIR tv. Yesterday, one, a dynamite woman with two teens wrote about what her 16 year old daughter went through Wednesday. The kid was a favorite of mine. She couldn't get the hang of English and I tutored her some. She was barely 14 when I left. The daughter was only a bit scuffed up Wednesday, but her friend, a student and a nice young man by all accounts, was punched out pretty seriously, robbed of a "portable" (his radio) and his wind-breaker. These "hooligans" (voyou) were with the marchers. They use the marchers as cover, she said. The police ignored the voyou because as, my friend says they are ordered to. For daily information I also follow Leher on PBS and the ABC network news. Sometimes C Span has some insight on world politics. About 3 times a week I check out the Journal and Christian Science Monitor (solid writing and above average reporting) at the library and have coffee with the Reference lady.
HG
USA Thu 03/30/2006
That's Benedryl
Diphenhydramine HCL is the generic equivalent of Benedryl.
USA Thu 03/30/2006
London Travel Pass with tube pass
Hi,
I posted a question about three weeks ago and got back about four emails-- Thanks to those that replied--
I am still not sure about the London Travel Pass with the tube pass option-- Anyone out there that thinks it is a good deal? Please let me know-- I am thinking about the six day pass with the tube add on option--
As they say in London (I hope)
Cheers
K. Paul <email>
Maple Grove, MN USA Thu 03/30/2006
Jet Lag
Antihistamine (diphenhydramine HCL) over the counter - same as what is in those expensive sleeping pills - I have taken 3 RS tours in Europe and the first time I tried to stay up like he recommends but felt like ..... Finally went back to the hotel and took a nap - felt MUCH better. Next 2 trips I took a nap after checking in to hotel and felt MUCH better to no jet lag hangovers. Each of us IS different.
Charlie <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Thu 03/30/2006
Hotel in Barcelona
My friend and I were lucky enough to get a week off work in early May and decided we are heading to Barcelona. Looking for advice from fellow travelers for recommended hotels to stay in. We would like to be in/near the historical center around 80-120 euro per night. Safe area a must! I am in the process of doing guidebook research, but since this is only a month away, would appreciate any recommendations. Thank you in advance!
Beth <email>
Chicago, IL USA Thu 03/30/2006
Siena Help
During our month long Europe trip this summer my hubby and I will be spending 3 nights in Siena. On the first full day I thought we would explore most of the town of Siena. Any suggestions for the second full day? There are all kinds of tours to neighboring towns and wineries which would be fine but I don't know which one to do. Also, would it be easy to take a walk on our own (or rent bikes) to a neighboring town or some wineries?
Sally <email>
El Dorado Hills, CA USA Thu 03/30/2006
re: ATM card limit
One more thing to consider: the $200/day limit is per account. If you are traveling with a spouse/partner/friend, you can each withdraw up to your limit, for a total of $400/day between the two of you. That's living pretty good by my standards!
DB
Seattle, WA USA Thu 03/30/2006
Naps are good
My husband and I have tried both napping and not napping upon arrival. We have found that napping for one to two hours helps TREMENDOUSLY and we are then rearing to go for the rest of the trip. The nap also helps for the weirdness that some people feel after they travel in a sleeper car.
USA Thu 03/30/2006
ATM card limit
My card had a limit of $200. All I had to do was contact my banking institution and ask that it be raised. No problem.
(something to also keep in mind. The limit is in US funds. If your limit is $200, you can't get 200 euros or 200 pounds.)
USA Thu 03/30/2006
ATM CARD IN EUROPE
There is not a $200 a day limit on withdrawals on all ATMs. My card is Cirrus, Pulse and Star. I have withdrawn as much as $400 on my card.
Best to call your bank and ask what the limits are.
ok USA Thu 03/30/2006
ATM cards in Europe
I've thought about using my ATM card in Europe because it seems the most convenient way to get money without carrying a lot with you or taking Travelers Checks. However, isn't there generally a $200.00 per day limit on withdrawals? In some cities, like Paris and London, that won't cover the price of hotel and food. Is there something I'm missing?
Cathy
USA Thu 03/30/2006
London Apartments for Rent
Here is some information I've collected over several years from various travel newsletters and travel boards. I haven't used any of them. The prices may be out of date.
www.london4rent.com (the person who recommended this site said it was great);
E&E Apartments (no website but they do have e-mail) ee.apartments@virgin.net phone 011-44-171-828-0453. Moderately priced studio, 1 and 2 bedroom flats in Pimlico and Victoria. Near the Thames, Tate Britain, Chelsea and Victoria Station. 3-night minimum. £360 - £700+ per week;
Hamlet (UK) Ltd. www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~hamlet_uk/ Phone 011-44-181-883-0024 1 and 2 bedroom flats at St Katherine?s Dock next to the Tower of London. £500 - £675 per week;
Cottage Net (Nordqvist & Co.) apartments@nordqvist.co.uk phone 011-44-171-828-2424 Many apartments throughout London £450 - £750+;
Scala House www.scala-house.co.uk Phone 011-44-171-580-6644. An Apartment bldg with 2-bedroom flats near Tottenham Court Rd and Oxford Street in central London. 2 night minimum £665 - £1225 (for the penthouses) per week;
Price Apartments www.priceapts.co.uk Studios thru 4-bedroom flats throughout London. £360 - £3,300;
Chelsea Cloisters www.chelsea-cloisters.co.uk Phone 011-44-171-403-7760 Full service studios near Harrods from £480 per week. Larger flats up to £1000
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 03/30/2006
Karen, et al... melatonin and plane sleep
I seldom have trouble sleeping on the plane. If I have problems, I read, watch a movie or have ONE glass of wine. My husband takes 1/2 a "regular" dramamine to get to sleep. Yes, our flight leaves around 8pm so it is not tooooo early to sleep. And yes, now that we have sooo many frequent flyer miles, we do get to travel business class sometimes. Even when we fly coach, I have been able to sleep. I suggest the dramamine, or the wine (or a benedryl.. whatever makes you feel sleepy)and a good travel pillow so your neck is comfortable. Even 3 or 4 hours of sleep is better than none. Sometimes,it's a bit like in college when you had to pull an all-nighter.
Toni
USA Thu 03/30/2006
I agree - naps can be GREAT!
My husband and I tried to take Rick's advice and hit the streets of Paris after checking into our hotel. Neither of us slept much on the plane, and we were miserable. We went back to the hotel, slept for about 2 hours, and felt incredibly refreshed. We had a lovely late afternoon and evening strolling around the Eiffel Tower, went to bed early since we were still a bit tired, and woke up the next morning feeling wonderful. We were hardly jet-lagged from then on.
Julie
Durham, NC USA Thu 03/30/2006
handbags for travel?
Has anyone tried the "Hands Off Handbag" from Travelsmith? I am forever looking for a great travel purse. This one supposedly fits diagonally across your body. Sometimes I find the traditional shoulder bag too hard on my back as well as too bouncy (bouncing off my hips, I mean). I'm open to suggestions, ladies!
Sandra <email>
Ashley, PA USA Thu 03/30/2006
CREDIT CARDS
Stephanie:
As you can read in lots of letters in this column, most travelers now use ATM cards to obtain currency in Europe.
You will find machines nearly everywhere–even in post offices in Switzerland. And in Moscow and St Petersburg I found machines easily; some distributed dollars or rubles.
I dont know any travelers who use travelers checks.
Only those who are not concerned with cost still buy them. The cost is prohibitive and it is very difficult to find a place to cash them. No merchants will accept them.
Yes every hostel I have stayed in during the last 20 years took my Visa card.
USA Thu 03/30/2006
Travel to the UK
I am taking a solo trip to London and staying a few days in Liverpool. Just wondering if anyone has any inexpensive, yet safe hotel suggestions for this area. Any suggestions for must see sights? I am planning to take some day excursions to the Isle of Wight and possibly Corfe Castle, has anyone been to either and any suggestions on train travel. Thanks.
Angie <email>
Woodbridge, VA USA Thu 03/30/2006
London week-long apartment rental help
Hi. I am traveling to London with my eldest (20) and youngest (9) daughters at the beginning of May for work. As we will be there for a week, I am thinking that it might make sense to look for a short-term 2bedroom or 2 bed apartment rental, as we can prepare food in the flat and do laundry. I know that I need to get to West Drayton and Slough, so am looking for a location with good access to public transportation. I am also looking for a safe neighborhood, as my daughters will be exploring on their own while I am working. I'm hoping to find some place that is reasonably priced, as I am traveling on a budget. I have seen some sites that list 2 bedroom flats in the $500-$800.00 per week range. Any suggestions would be very appreciated.
Best,
Tim Lanza
Tim <email>
Columbus, OH USA Thu 03/30/2006
Re: Taylor, Hostel Reservations
I rarely reserve anything more than a few days in advance, most times just show up. The key is to have a short list of places in any location, if one is full, on to the next. That said, for major destinations (Paris or Venice) I book a month or more ahead, especially if there is a specific place I want to stay. I try not to have too many places booked (Usually only about 5 nights of a 3 week trip) because I too like flexibility in my schedule. In addition to Rick's recommendations, try Lonely Planet and Let's Go, both excellent "backpacking" type guides.
Paul <email>
IA USA Thu 03/30/2006
Naps ARE good!
We arrived at our Paris hotel about 11am. We unpacked and took a 1 or 2 hour nap. We had lunch and then spent the rest of the day at the Louvre. It was opened till 9pm that night. We slept a little on the plane, but that nap did wonders. After that first day, jet lag was not a problem. We took nothing to counter jet leg other than going to bed as early as possible for several days before we left.
Tom
Summerville, SC USA Thu 03/30/2006
Credit Cards, Travelers Checks, and ATMs
The hostels I've stayed in took credit cards, but I don't know if that is universally true. Do NOT count on using travelers checks for anything other than an emergency. They are very difficult to cash and the fees are very high. Get your cash from ATMs. Rick has a travel tip about exchanging money in Europe, including information on important things to do BEFORE leaving home. Here is the URL: www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/moneytip.htm.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 03/30/2006
Re: Credit Cards
Some Hostels take credit cards, but cash would be the "preferred" method of payment, and they may even charge you a fee for credit card transactions if available. Take some time and look elsewhere on this sight or on the Thorntree at LonelyPlanet.com regarding using your ATM card, by far the best way to get cash to use for nearly all of your transactions. In most of my travels I wind up using cash almost exclusively, that just seems to be the mode of operation in Europe, much more so than the US. Do consider a balanced approach, I take my ATM, usually two different Credit Cards, just a few travellers checks for emergency, and maybe some left over Euro's or US Dollars. Don't forget a moneybelt or pouch.
Paul <email>
IA USA Thu 03/30/2006
Naps are good
In spite of what Rick Steves and the other posters say, my parents, my husband & I (who have collectively travelled to Europe over 100 times) always take a nap upon arrival. We set the alarm so we don't sleep too long. It helps us to feel human.
Karen <email>
MN USA Thu 03/30/2006
Credit Cards
Do most hostels take credit cards? I was thinking I should take travelers checks to get cash, and just pay for the hostels with credit.
Stephanie <email>
Denver, CO USA Thu 03/30/2006
Re: Hostel Reservations
Carlos: Thanks for the advice. So if we reserve a hostel a few days before we arrive we should be ok, as opposed to months in advance, like now?
Taylor
Pittsburgh, PA USA Thu 03/30/2006
BILBAO TO AIRPORT
PASTED FROM BILBAO AIRPORT WEBSITE:
Bizkaibus line 3247
· Itinerary:
Bilbao (Termibus)-Airport, with stop at Gran Vía 79, Plaza Moyua and Alameda Recalde 11.
· Timetable:
from Bilbao, every half hour from 5:25am to 9:55pm; from the airport every half hour between 6:15am and 12:00pm.
· Price: 1.15 €;
<email>
UK Thu 03/30/2006
TRAINS PRAGUE TO DRESDEN
Eurocity trains every two hours. Fare 25.80euro. Takes 2h:27m. Details and on-line tickets from http://reiseauskunft.bahn.de/bin/query.exe/en
<email>
UK Thu 03/30/2006
Jet Lag
Go to your doctor, ask for a light sleeping pill (like the ones they advertise on TV all the time) He/she will usually prescribe one or two for you to take with - or might even give you a sample if it's available. Melatonin doesn't work unless you take it for a while so it builds up in your system. Taking this on the flight will do nothing to help you.
If you are truly worried about terrible jet lag...get thee to your doctor and ask him/her.
My best advise...get to your destination in Europe and stay up as long as you can. Don't nap- it will be worse. As Rick Steves has advised...just get out and move, then have dinner and go to bed a bit earlier than normal.
My husband and I have found that we are NOT jet lagged on the way over, but rather, on the way back. Going over, it's dark, like night...coming back, we fly into the sun, so it' day all the time, harder to sleep!
USA Thu 03/30/2006
To DB - Hotel in Frankfurt
DB - We stayed two nights in Frankfurt when visiting our son last October. We found the Excelsior Hotel (right across the street from the train station) on Expedia.com and it was satisfactory. At that time, we spent about $92/night for a triple room for the three of us. It had a huge buffet breakfast with food for a variety of nationalities. The hotel was nothing fancy, but did a good job of meeting our needs. There is also an Internet room you can use to check your email, etc. that is free of charge when you book a room there. We had a very early morning flight to Paris from there and rode the metro train to the airport for about $5 each (if I recall correctly). It was also a very efficient way to get to the airport from town. I also agree there is not too much to see in Frankfurt, but it was interesting, to say the least. Just a suggestion from our own experience.
USA Thu 03/30/2006
Train from Prague to Dresden
Is there a high speed train that travels from Prague to Dresden?
MN USA Thu 03/30/2006
Is Paris Really that Way?
HG- I assume that your vast knowledge of Paris comes from the fact that you live or work there. Otherwise, it would appear that you derive it from newspaper accounts and TV.Nobody needs reminders that these feature the worst of everything and seldom deal with the big picture.Did your news and commentary tell of attacks on the Champs Elysee or Louvre? Did it tell you about protesters hanging off of the Eiffel? Probably not.
You spoke of Chirac addressing the nation and indicated that this shows how serious the thing has become. Is this necessarily true? Didn't Bush address the American public after 9/11, despite the fact that nothing happened in 47 of the states and only in limited areas in the affected 3?
There is too much money to be made to allow tourist venues to be affected. Police will keep protesters far from there. All steps are taken to protect a huge source of income. Foxifications and reality seldom mix.
Paul <email>
USA Thu 03/30/2006
Paris unrest
Paul in Iowa sounds very knowing, but his evaluation of the events---and it's not unrest any longer, it's deliberate smashing and looting of property and people---is very different from the reports in LeMonde and the Intn'l Herald Tribune which say 1500 to near 3000 thugs (the IHT term) leftist and anarchists many much too old to be "students" have attacked Paris. Another day of protests (the spin word for deliberately violent acts) is set for next Tuesday, Paris time. These aren't rowdies after a soccer game. Paul, a little less blase feigned worldliness and understanding the the facts would do nicely. In France it is not the President's job to be involved in day to day politics because he is largely the front man, but the situation is so serious, Chirac will speak to the nation "soon." Chirac is taking these events as a strong threat to the French government. To Chirac and Prime Minister de Villepin, it is not just another strike that Paul says they have all the time. Perhaps it is to Paul, but evidently not to the French government.
HG
ILL USA Wed 03/29/2006
Travel insurance
We have used Travel Guard. The first time was because it was well mentioned in a Rick Steves book. You may also wish to consider CDW from them if you are driving. Don't count on the coverage credit cards issuers say they provide.
chris
CO, USA Wed 03/29/2006
BERLIN FOR A WEEK
Jason:
After travel for 20 years I will suggest you take no money. I never do. Get an ATM card and withdraw currency as you need it from a machine.
You will find several machines at the airport where you land so you can take a cab or rent a room immediately.
That way you wont carry any extra cash which someone may steal from you. Why risk it?
BOBBY
CHICAGO, IL USA Wed 03/29/2006
Re: Melatonin
Unfortunately, melatonin had never worked for me. I've tried 1mg, 2mg,...5mg. Just didn't worked. Naturally, if you can get some sleep on the plane, most of your problems are gone. But most travelers will agree that it is most difficult to sleep on the plane and is nearly impossible if you have a morning or early afternoon flight. Even on an evening flight, I still need a RX sleeping aid to get some shut-eye amidst the surrounding noise, activities and crampness.
The best I can do for myself after arrival is to stay awake for as long as possible. Go out and do some sightseeing. Whatever you do, DON'T take that nap! Yes, it will be tough to stay awake that long if your flight arrives at 7am (sometimes I felt like a walking zombie!) But keep active and you will feel better the next morning....I hope.
BG
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 03/29/2006
Florence Airport
From the airport's website:
FLORENCE AIRPORT WILL REOPEN TO AIR TRAFFIC ON APRIL 8th 2006
Florence, March 14th 2006 — Aeroporto di Firenze AdF SpA informs that Florence Airport will reopen to air traffic on the April 8th 2006 if no exceptional and unpredictable events arise, well in advance respect to initial planning.
In the next days Airlines, informed by AdF, will organize the return of their flight operations to/from Florence Airport.
For further information and reservations on flights operated at Florence Airport from April 8th 2006, AdF invites passengers to contact their Travel Agent or the Airlines direct.
Wed 03/29/2006
TRAVEL TO ISRAEL
Todd: Go to your library and browse a few travel guides for places that interest you.
Or do a google search for “Israel attractions”. Your tour director will choose the most important ones; so you wont have many to choose from.
WACO, TX USA Wed 03/29/2006
HOSTEL RESERVATIONS
Taylor: At that time of summer you will definitely need reservations.
I always reserve hostel rooms at least one day in advance. And each hostel can reserve rooms for you for following nights so it is easy to do.
All hostels are crowded during the summer and especially in August.
CARLOS
DALLAS, USA Wed 03/29/2006
TRIP HELP AND SUGGESTIONS
Raquel:
Why don’t you read Ricks books and decide what YOU consider MUST SEE. You wont have time to visit all those places.
Cut your towns in half and you MAY be able to see them in 8 days. I have learned in 20 years of travel that planning the trip is most important.
And you have to learn how to budget your time. It always takes longer to travel from town to town that you think.
USA Wed 03/29/2006
MELATONIN
Flounder boy:
Jet lag affects everyone in a different way. I take 3 mg melatonin every day.
So I don’t think the timing is important. I never have jet lag, but everyone is different.
You can buy it at any health food store.
MANDIE D.
NYC, USA Wed 03/29/2006
re: Jan - Amalfi coast
I would echo most of those comments below. Sure, you can do this area in just a few days. Use Sorento as your base. Pompei is an easy day trip (half-day if you're quick). Definitely don't miss the Amalfi Coast. We took the bus to Positano/Amalfi rather than the boat - I'm sure both offer spectacular views, from opposite perspectives. We did Capri and the Blue Grotto and felt it was the ultimate tourist trap. On the other hand, we actually liked Sorento quite a bit. Sure, it's VERY touristy, but we found it delightful. Be sure to check out the local liquors (Lemoncello, and a yummy melon liquor - very refreshing!). I think it would be difficult to *not* fall in love with this corner of Italy.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Wed 03/29/2006
ARRIVING IN CT WITHOUT RESERVATIONS
Melissa: we arrived in CT in May without reservations. There will be lots to choose from.
We looked at several rooms before renting one. The real busy tourist season starts much later in the year.
I recommend that you start looking early in the morning so you can be settled in by early afternoon.
CAROL W.
WACO, TX USA Wed 03/29/2006
Where to sleep, last night in Frankfurt?
We'll be wrapping up our 20-day trip (BeNeLux & Germany) in Frankfurt, in early September, and I'm looking for recommendations for a hotel. On the last full day of our trip, we'll be coming in on the train from Munich (maybe with a brief stop in Nurnburg along the way), arriving in Frankfurt sometime late afternoon. Since what I've heard/read about Frankfurt suggests it doesn't really warrant a lot of sightseeing time (right?), I'm thinking we'll just ease in to Frankfurt shortly before dinner, grab a meal, and get a good night's sleep before our flight home the next day. We have a 10 am flight the next day. Any suggestions for a hotel for our last night in Germany? Thanks!
DB
Seattle, WA USA Wed 03/29/2006
Jan - Amalfi coast
Jan, it's plenty of time. My husband and I spend the same amount of time there last May. We had a hotel in Sorrento. Arrived via ferry from Naples in the AM. went to hotel, checked in. Went to the train station to figure out a schedule to get to Pomepi and Vesuvio the next day, and do that in one day. Advise: find the travel agent in the shopping center just down from the train station and sign up for a bus tour for about $50 each. Well worth the money. Hope you get Elizabeth as a guide. Meet the bus at 8AM, take the tour that day. Next day, get the fast ferry to Amalfi. Watch the coast line. Get off at Amalfi, hike to Atrani, then follow the 1,000 stair climb to Ravello. Shop for ceramics here!! Walk the town, have lunch, then walk back down to Amalfi. (don't eat here...over priced!!). Take the slow ferry back to Sorrento so you can get close to the shore and really see the towns...get great pictures!
Next day, take the ferry to Capri if you like...we skipped this on advise of some other friends. Said it was over priced - even the Blue Grotto. But might be worth a day!
Sorrento is a tourist trap in my opinion....but enjoy the evening walk along the main road. They close it off to traffic. Get a gelato and walk with the locals. Watch the kids play soccer....it's fun!
Ellen <email>
CO USA Wed 03/29/2006
Toni--Jet Lag
Of course, sleeping on the plane is the obvious solution. I'd just like to know how you do it. Do you fly first class? I don't know people can go to sleep well before their own bedtime and wake up refreshed at 1am on their bodies' time. It's great if it works. Of course, alcohol helps me get to sleep. It's just that I feel like *%$# later.
Karen <email>
MN USA Wed 03/29/2006
Jet Lag
I have never needed melatonin. Just plan to sleep on the plane. We eat an early supper before boarding and then go directly to sleep. We "hit the gound running" when we land in London (38 trips so far!!!) and make sure to be outside a good bit the first day so the sunlight helps our bodies adjust. Get a good night's sleep that night and you are fine.
Toni
Yates, NC USA Wed 03/29/2006
Florence Italy airport closing
Does anyone know if the Florence airport is still closed for runway repairs and/or the planned date for reopening?
John <email>
Dallas, tx USA Wed 03/29/2006
Ian...how does this sound
Ian, save Prague for another trip.
I would do it in this order:
London
Fly to Venice
Overnight train to Nice
Overnight train to Paris
Fly out of Paris
USA Wed 03/29/2006
Hostel theft
I am traveling alone, whats the best way to lock up lugagge and not have anything stolen? are the locks they give u safe?
d
USA Wed 03/29/2006
Arriving in Cinque Terre without reservations
I'll be spending the first 3 days of May in Cinque Terre and am wondering about just showing up and expecting to find an affita camera the way Rick Steves describes. I don't know how busy things are in early May. Does anyone have experience to share about that?
Melissa
USA Wed 03/29/2006
re: Gibraltar
David - I thought Gibraltar was cool, well worth a visit if you're in the neighborhood. Peer across to Africa from The Rock, see the apes, feel like you're in an odd little bit of England surrounded by Spain. Definitely an odd place, but I found it interesting.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Wed 03/29/2006
Melatonin
Try the Graffiti Wall "Jet Lag Cures" in the Archived Topics section. You could go on for days with the suggestions...
USA Wed 03/29/2006
Melatonin
I will be flying from Florida to Berlin soon. I'm considering taking Melatonin to combat jet lag.
I would be interested in the comments of others who have tried this, or other remedies, for jet lag.
Also, what is a recommended dosage and what time of day do you take it?
Thanks.
Flounder Boy
Brandon, FL USA Wed 03/29/2006
Sorrento Itinerary
We will be in Sorrento, and have approximately 3 days (Fri pm, Sat, Sun, and Mon am). Any ideas on the "must sees"? We thought Pompeii, Capri, and the Amalfi coast. Is there enough time to do all 3?
Thanks
Jan
Centennial, CO USA Wed 03/29/2006
Quick trip help
first suggestion is to cut down where you're going, you'll spend more time traveling than seeing
USA Wed 03/29/2006
Quick trip help and suggestions
Just found out I'm visiting my cousin in Florence in three weeks. From there we'll go to Milan, fly to Oslo then travel Norway, Sweden, Denmark and end in Berlin via train. All in 8 days. We plan on taking a number of night trains to help with the limited time. First, what are the "must sees" in these countries (not Florence… been there) and second, would I benefit from getting a 4-country pass? I've looked at point-to-point tickets and am confused at the costs vs the cost of a 6-day, 4-country pass. Any suggestions? Thanks..!
Raquel <email>
Saint Louis, MO USA Wed 03/29/2006
Ian's trip bvb bb
Ian: Your trip sounds good only if: 1. you're never visiting Europe again, 2. you only like cities, 3. you don't like scenery & 4. you really like airports. It wouldn't be the trip for me.
Karen <email>
MN USA Wed 03/29/2006
Gibraltor
I am curious about whether or not a visit to Gibraltor is worth it or not??. Any thoughts or ideas are welcome!!
david <email>
phoenix, az USA Wed 03/29/2006
point-to-point train tix
Dana,
go to the Trenitalia site and click on Customers Area. Then click on > Travel Conditions > Traveller's Guide. I think you will find most of your questions answered there.
<email>
USA Wed 03/29/2006
Michelle in Anaheim re Spain
I appreciate your feedback regarding Barcelona and Madrid. My husband and I are planniing a trip to Spain and Portugal in early May and I have some questions for you if you are open to responding to me by email. Thanks.
Teri <email>
Newport Beach, CA USA Wed 03/29/2006
how does this sound....
London 4 nights
fly to Prague 3 nights
fly to venice 4 nights
fly to nice 3 nights
fly to paris 4 nights
ian
USA Wed 03/29/2006
Travel Insurance
I agree with posters who invest in travel insurance for the chance they may get ill or have an accident before or during the trip. However, read policies carefully if you plan to buy insurance so you can cancel your trip due to civil unrest. Travel Insurance Companies most likely will not refund your trip if you change your mind and decide not to travel because you don't feel safe.
Seattle, WA USA Wed 03/29/2006
Visas
US citizens do not need a visa to go to Romania or Hungry, unless you are staying for an extended amount of time (probably over 3 months).
Seattle, WA USA Wed 03/29/2006
Flexibility of point-to-point train tix?
Hi,
I'd really appreciate help understanding how to use point-to-point train tickets that have been purchased in advance. Let's say I go online and buy a ticket departing Bologna --> Siena that departs at 15.00. But on the day of my trip I decide I'd like to depart earlier for Siena (let's say 11.00.) This would mean the same journey, but would put me on different trains (let's say an IC vs. an IR train.) If my new plan
Dana <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Wed 03/29/2006
Travel Insurance
We planned a trip to Italy, France, and Germany last October. We decided ahead of time to buy travel insurance and bought a pretty large policy for $79 (for two of us) through TravelEx. A week before we were to leave, I got sick and my doctor would not allow me to travel. Thank goodness for the travel insurance! We were paid in full from TravelEx and so glad we bought it! We had originally bought it in the event either one of us got sick in Europe and would have to be medivaced out of there. But, even though I am literally hardly EVER sick, we were glad we had purchased it. Check out insuremytrip.com. It allows you to compare many companies and is where we found our policy. Just something to think about. You never know when you MIGHT get sick, even if you aren't normally a sickly person......
USA Wed 03/29/2006
backpacking in high season-advice?
I am bit concerned about my summer travels and would love any advice. I am in my late 20's and taking my younger sister (17) backpacking through France, Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy in June and July. It's the high season but we had no other option for time. I enjoy travelling-- but without the crowds and I'm not a big fan of the "touristy" effects and crowds. We still want to be able to get a good taste (albeit a fast one) of the best stuff. I also know I need to do a bit more planning rather than stay open in regards to reserving hostels and such (looking out for the safety of my youn sis).
What advice, tips, secrets could be shared that would make this go smoothly in a time of crowds? Our budget is also fairly tight.
liz <email>
asheville, nc USA Wed 03/29/2006
Visa requirement
I don't believe that any of the countries that accept the Eurail pass require US Citizens to have a visa. I wasn't so sure about Hungary and Romania, but according to Traveldocs.com, a visa is not required for US citizens for 90 day tourist travel in those countries.
CO USA Wed 03/29/2006
Visas
I am traveling to Europe for 5 weeks, and I'm not sure if I need to worry about Visas for any countries. I am flying into London, and taking a Eurail pass. Do I need to get temporary visas for any countries?
Stephanie Dickens <email>
Denver, CO USA Wed 03/29/2006
Italy with 16 month old
I will be traveling with my parents, husband and son (will be 16 months) to Italy this fall. I have been to Italy before, but I know it will be interesting w/ a small child and my parents. Tentatively, our schedule for being there two weeks is:
Three days Rome
Rent a car and drive through Tuscany (not sure where to plant ourselves in a central location for Siena, Montepulciano, Pienza, etc.)
Four Days through Tuscany
Three Days Florence (ditch car in Florence)
Take train to Venice for two days
I would love input on the itinerary from others who know these areas better...when I traveled to Italy, I was backpacking with a friend and we took the train from Rome to Florence to Milan to France.
Lastly, packing tips? We need to bring a car seat, stroller and we have a Kelty child carrier. How do we pack this? The carseat we have to bring on the plane and we'll probably use the stroller, but has anyone had to pack one of those Kelty backpack carriers?
All tips appreciated!
Lucy
Lucy Wang <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 03/29/2006
Itinerary suggestions
Pete,
your trip has an awful lot of travel. Strasbourg to Munich is a half day. Even if you do Munich to Berlin at night, there are still 3 1/2 days in what looks like a 17 day trip, about 20%.
Much as I love Munich, I would say to skip Munich and Berlin and spend your time in France (including the Alsace) and Switzerland. Come back next time and see Germany.
CO USA Wed 03/29/2006
hostel reservations
My friend and I are backpacking through Europe for our first time this summer! Because of the world cup, we booked our hostels in Germany already because of the huge crowds. We have our itinary planned out for the rest of the countries we will be visiting (Switzerland, Italy, France), but do not know if it is a good idea to book hostel reservations in advance because of there being no vacancy. We do want to be able to have some flexibility in our schedule in case things change and we want to do different things. We will ge arriving in Switzerland end of June and leaving France middle of July. Any suggestions as to whether it is necessary to book hostels in advance? Are there any cities that are especially busy this time of year (we know it's a busy time to travel)?
also.. any reccomended hostels?
Taylor <email>
Pittsburgh, PA USA Wed 03/29/2006
Re: Unrest/Strikes
While admittingly the unrest of last year in France was more of a violent note, I would be less concerned about safety issues regarding strikes and protests and might only briefly consider the inconvienence they may bring. Strikes seem to be a way of life for the French. I cannot think of a single visit that there has not been some type of strike or protest going on. In fact one of my best moments was coming into a square near Bastille filled with people, music, wine, beer, food (all for about a euro per serving) only later did we figure out it was a staging area for the Telephone/Communication workers to prepare for their march. Most commotion can be avoided, inconvieneces short, and rarely violent, especially to non-attendees. Go, you may have some memorable moments.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 03/29/2006
re: itinerary suggestions
Pete, it's hard to say without context. Is this your first trip to Europe, or been there many times? What interests you? There's good stuff in all the places you've listed, but there's plenty of good stuff not on your list (Loire Valley/Chateaux, Normandy, Rhine Valley, etc.). It all depends on your tastes.
DB
Seattle, WA USA Wed 03/29/2006
itinerary suggestions
Hello,
I am doing some research in Paris this summer and I plan on doing a short trip around France/Germany after(late August into early Sept)... My proposed itinerary is below, I'm interested to hear if people consider this an effective use of time, or if I am bypassing something fantastic, or wasting too much time in some less interesting places.
Paris (and surrounding daytrips) 5-7 days
Nice/Arles 2 days
Annecy/Chamonix 2 days
Strasbourg OR Colmar 2 days
Munich 2 days
Berlin 3 days
Pete
SF, CA USA Wed 03/29/2006
Travel to Israel
My wife and I are traveling to Israel for 3 weeks in May. 2 of those weeks will be on a tour, and 1 week on our own. Any suggestions of good "back door" style places to visit?
Todd
Santa Clara, CA USA Wed 03/29/2006
Re: Rome to Venice (and Florence too?)
Yes, Trenitalia would be the best way to book tickets. However, you won't be able to book for September yet. The furthest in advance that you can book is 2 months. FYI, validate your ticket in the little yellow machines at the station just BEFORE you board the train. If you give the conductor an unvalidated ticket, you could be fined. And a hearty "Thank you" to the kind conductor on the Milan-Venice line that let us slide. :)
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Wed 03/29/2006
Travel insurance
I have allways used worldnomads.com based in australia they give you a discount the second time you use them,I feel that they are the best and most reasonably priced that i have used good luck.
John
Kentucky USA Wed 03/29/2006
travel insurance
So far I've never had to use the travel insurance, but the several hundred dollars balanced against the many thousands spent for the vacation I personally feel is worthwhile. Usually I go with http://www.travelguard.com and get the least amount I can- usually air and any non-refundable deposits already charged for the trip.
USA Wed 03/29/2006
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is always a great idea. The cost of the insurance weighed against something happening is minimal. I'd buy the insurance. In today's world, it's needed. Peace of mind is worth the cost - missed air reservations, lost luggage, canceled trips.....
USA Wed 03/29/2006
London to Paris by Bus
Jen - The Eurolines coach from London stops at La Defense on the west side of Paris (metro line 1 and RER line A) and at Bagnolet on the east side (metro line 3). Bagnolet is the main station. (I haven't taken the coach so I can't comment on the ride.)
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 03/29/2006
interrupted air/rail - travel insurance
We are concerned about the unrest in Paris, mainly because we heard that air travel and train travel was disrupted yesterday which we suspect altered the plans of many vacationers and cost them extra money for missed reservations at hotels, cars and flights. We are going to Europe for 3 weeks and had to save a long time to be able to afford it. Would it be prudent to get travel insurance to cover these potential issues? If so - can anyone recommend a company?
<email>
FL USA Wed 03/29/2006
Terme Di Saturnia, Maremma
My husband and I are considering a visit to Terme Di Saturnia, Maremma, at the end of our trip to Italy. Does anyone know anything about this spa? Thanks.
Debbe <email>
St. Louis, MO USA Tue 03/28/2006
Transportation around Heathrow
I just returned from London, and wanted to share a tip...I stayed for one night at a hotel near Heathrow. My hotel told me that the only way for me to get from the Underground station at Heathrow to the hotel was to take the "Hotel Hoppa" bus, with a cost of $6. It seemed like a lot to pay for a 2 minute bus ride. The agent at the TI at the airport clued me in that the public bus service is FREE in the areas around Heathrow. Yes, I had to walk one block to/from the bus stop, but it was worth it to me!
Amy
SF, CA USA Tue 03/28/2006
Rome to Venice train
Sandra, Several years ago we took the night train from Rome to Venice. I have also done the night train from Venice to Rome! We got a couchette. The only thing available was a room for six so there wasn't much comfort but at least it saved us a day of travel and we didn't have much time. Both times we left just before midnight and arrived early the next day. Not a bad trip if you can sleep anywhere like I can!!
USA Tue 03/28/2006
Rent mini-van in Frankfurt
I would like to rent a mini van in Frankfurt, Germany. Car rental consolidator www.autoreservation.com is offering a very reasonable price. Has anyone had experienced renting through this consolidator? Your comment is much appreciated.
Tony Claudio
Richmond, BC Canada Tue 03/28/2006
Just returned from Spain!
I just returned from a 2 week trip to Barcelona and Madrid, with a side trip to Segovia.
The weather these past weeks were a bit dreary. Barcelona was cold in the AM, then warmed up by lunch, and then cold at night. My husband was cheap and decided to take the metro from the airport to our hotel (off Selva del Mar). Its not worth pinching euros! We had to transfer stations and I was so tired! Its worth paying the 25-30 Euros by taxi... which would have taken us 1/2 hour versus the 1 and a half hour "Adventure".
We took the hop off/hop on tour bus, thinking it was a cheezy tour. It was not! The bus took us to the places we were planning to go on, and we got a bird's eye view on the top of the double decker. The cost for a 2 days pass was 21,00 and well worth it.
Madrid was cold and wet when we arrived, and was much different than Barcelona. Barcelona is full of Gaudi's influence, and has a small city feel. Madrid, to me, is like Paris... fast paced, big city. Still very beautiful and full of gorgeous architecture!
I posted a while back about pickpockets....or my fear of them!! Yes, there's a crowd of people, but I wore a neck pouch and kept an eye out for my stuff. I did have a scare but it was my neck pouch moving from the front to my back. I guess it shifted on its own under my shirt. Never had I been more scared and my heart beating wildly!! It made me even MORE aware of my surroundings!!
Never had anyone harass me and we were in the touristy area like La Rambla in Barcelona and Sol in Madrid. I didn't get to experience the Rosemary twig gypsies (is that considered being lucky?) and we enjoyed the tapas, the sangria, the menu of the days, and the whole experience! Can't wait to venture south to see Sevilla and Andalucia on our next time.
Michelle
Anaheim, CA USA Tue 03/28/2006
For Sandra
I purchased ahead through RailEurope for Trenitalia reserved seats on the Venice to Rome ES train since it was summer. The train was packed and the reservations very helpful- by September other posters can tell you if it is "off season" enough to not have to have reservations to save some money. But using the express is worth the cost, since it is so much faster and hence less chance for delays along the way with the IC. It took about 4 and a half hours, and then of course factoring in time to get to the station, etc.
Karen
USA Tue 03/28/2006
Rome to Venice (and Florence too?)
Is Trenitalia the best way to book ahead of time from Rome, to Florence, and finally to Venice? I'm also going in September. Book both trips upfront now?
Mark <email>
CA USA Tue 03/28/2006
London to Paris via bus?
By using a link from this website, I managed to find a wonderful deal for travelers on a serious budget, but I really want to know if its worth the trouble. National Express, bus service to Paris, is really cheap, and I know it would be an overnight trip for us but, is it a good service? Where exactly will they deposit us in Paris? Has anyone ever used this sevice before? I know Eurostar is time efficient, but very expensive so any feedback about National Express would be greatly aprreciated. Many thanks...from my empty wallet!
Jen
Houston, TX USA Tue 03/28/2006
Rome to Venice
Sandra,
if you use the previous method you get 5 hrs and $65, but by what trains?
The best way is to go directly to Trenitalia.com and put in Rome and Venice St Lucia. Use a date less than 2 months from now and a time in the morning.
You should get a number of connections, including a direct ES* (EuroStar Italia) in 4hr33mn and an IC (Intercity) in 5hr59min. If you click on a basket you will find that the ES* fare is €44,93 - about $53. The IC fare is €38.89 with seat reservation - about $47.
CO USA Tue 03/28/2006
Rome to Venice
Sanda,
Use the tab above > Railpasses
Then go to > Compare Point-to-Point Ticket Costs > Time and Cost map
This will give you the info you are looking for
USA Tue 03/28/2006
Berlin for a week
I'm going to Berlin for a week in July or Aug and I was curious about the amount of spending cash I would need for such a trip... any suggestions?
jason <email>
NJ USA Tue 03/28/2006
Rome to Venice
Planning a trip to Italy in Sep. for the first time. Could someone give me some advice. Need to know the best way to get from Rome to Venice, how long will it take and need an idea of the cost.
Thank you,
Sandra
Seattle, Wa USA Tue 03/28/2006
to Al in palo Alto
al, in regards t getting t the bilbao airport early. we were there loast october and the bus was a snap for our early morning flight. the stop is right in the center of town at the traffic circle. i think the first bus is at 0500. we caught the 0530 am bus and it took perhaps 25 minutes maximum to get to the airport. a taxi would work too. bilbao center is compact and you should be able to get to the bus stop in a few minutes.
robert
sfo, USA Tue 03/28/2006
Paris on May 1?
It appears we are going to be in Paris Apr 30 thru May 2. What is International Labor Day like there? I assume pretty much everything is closed, is it not? How much disorder to expect this year?
Thanks on adavnce.
AF
AF
Salem, MA USA Tue 03/28/2006
Transportion in Bilbao
I was wondering about early morning transportion in Bilbao, Spain. I'm staying in a hotel near the Guggenheim and have to catch a 7:00 am flight at the BIO airport (I believe it's about 12 km away). Will I be able to call a taxi at around 5:00 am? Do trains or buses run this early? Any idea about the costs?
Thanks in advance.
AL
Palo Alto, CA USA Tue 03/28/2006
Andrea in BC---Try Tree Tops in Moreton. Easy walk from station and the rest of M-in-M; large, cheerful rooms, excellent breakfasts and very friendly family running the operation. You will not be sorry. We stayed two weeks and would gladly go back at the first opportunity.
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 03/28/2006
Teresa Pritchard---I don't think Fort William has an airport (tho' that's a guess and could easily be checked) but Inverness does. So, Fort William-Inverness by land, then a flight either through Glasgow or Edinburgh to London, probably on Loganair, a subsidiary of British Air. Check websites. Best wishes.
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 03/28/2006
PLACES TO STAY IN TALLINN
Charlie:
I cant recommend a place, but avoid Tihase B&B. We stayed there last year and it did not meet normal standards for other B&Bs we have stayed in.
CHUCK Q.
DALLAS, TX USA Tue 03/28/2006
Apartment Rentals in Paris
Here is a list of Web sites I've collected from travel newsletters and posts on various boards. (I haven't used any of them.)
www.yourstayparis.com; www.parisvacationapartments.com; www.rentparis.com; www.parisperfect.com; www.beau-paris.com; www.aparisianhome.com; www.panacherentals.com; www.lodgis.com; www.parisianflats.com; www.franceforrent.com; www.chezvous.com; www.slowtrav.com; www.vacationinparis.com; www.rentals-paris.com
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 03/28/2006
Tivoli Tour
WE plan to be in Rome in October and would like to go to Tivoli. We wonder if anyone has suggestions for a tour of this area.
Whitehead <email>
Wilsonville, OR USA Mon 03/27/2006
Paris apartment rentals
We had fantastic luck with this website, and the owner of the apartment we rented is actually the webmaster of the website. He came to visit with us the second night of our visit, and was just charming! We needed an apartment that had high speed internet connection, and the website has categories of apartments, so you can narrow your choices to your specific needs. Highly recommend this site: www.phileas-Fogg.com
b.jones
TACOMA, wa USA Mon 03/27/2006
Paris Apartment Rentals
My friend and I are traveling to Paris at the end of May and we want to rent an apartment for 1 week, May 17-24. Does anyone have a good suggestion for a website to find an apartment on or have experience doing this short term rental thing? We want something really small and really cheap but within the vicinity of the city. Thanks!
Britta <email>
Moorhead, MN USA Mon 03/27/2006
Joe/ arrival at CDG
Joe/Indianapolis No matter how much the poster who told you your flight to Paris is landing at Terminal 2, the information is very likely incorrect. For example, if your flight from IND goes to ORD (Chicago OHare) you will likely be on flight 42, which, today, lands at T3 gate K5. There are several other gateway cities from IND so no one but American can tell you where you will land. They will tell you where the flight is scheduled to land, but even this may vary. Go to the aa.com site. There is a lot there so look carefully for arrivals and departures. They go by city or airport designation and flight number. There are 3 terminals at CDG. T2 is for AirFrance and other European flights. T3 is usually for charters or cargoe. T1 is for international flights except AirFrance. So you see, the gates will vary. As I post this, American Airlines flt 42 is enroute at 35k feet to T3,K5. *** You can down load a map of CDG at aeroports de paris. You need Adobe, but it is a comphrensive map with layouts for each level showing the stores, boutiques, washrooms parking, etc. and the RER point. It has a lot. I used it once then learned to say to anyone who did not look like a tourist, "Excuse me for disturbing you, Monsieur/Madame, would you help me. I look for the RER ticket office (if the person looks confused say, "air a air guichet") or whatever you want. Even the guys in blue or black uniforms with the assualt rifles in hand will help. They may look like baddies, but they are very nice people. Well, the ones that helped me on two instances were but I was careful to look friendly.
hg
USA Mon 03/27/2006
Singapore
Lucky you....this airline has been rated highest in comfort and service. It's the way to go!
USA Mon 03/27/2006
Singapore Airlines
Judy--if you think they are even better than Quantas, that is a great recommendation---Quantas is terrific.
Enzian
Seattle, USA Mon 03/27/2006
Singapore Airlines for Dave
If your question is about the reliability or reputation of the airline, the answer is that they are, as Michael S. indicates, reputed to be the "best" airline of all. Everyone I know who travels to Asia from the west coast of the U.S. goes out of their way to fly on Singapore Air. So for the "sage advice" you request, I'd say take those tickets!
USA Mon 03/27/2006
Singapore Airlines
I have flown overseas twice. Once with Qantas and recently with Singapore Airlines. It pains me, as a 'true blue' Aussie to say this, but Singapore Airlines were far superior. I wouldn't fly with any other airline.
Judy <email>
Adelaide, SA Aust Mon 03/27/2006
Generics
Carl, You do not have to have to be taking the generic drug. You only have to have the generic name. Even your brand names have a generic name. All drugs do. An example of generic/brand is: brand name, "Washington State Red Delicious tarte with crumb topping" comes out as the generic, apple pie. You can avoid this issue by taking ample supply of your drugs for your trip.
USA Mon 03/27/2006
Spain-end of May
Any advice on where to stay and play while in Spain? Preferably in Madrid and Barcelona!?!?
Thanks!
Gina <email>
USA Mon 03/27/2006
Places to stay in Tallinn, Estonia
Has anyone stayed in a place in Tallinn, Estonia lately that they would recommend for a couple? price?
Charlie <email>
Honolulu, HI USA Mon 03/27/2006
Paris - Picking up the RER at CDG
Joe,
You will be coming in at Terminal 2. A shuttle bus connects CDG's main terminals with the RER station.
USA Mon 03/27/2006
Medications and Prescriptions
I appreciate the response that there should be no problem filling a prescription in Europe that was written by a doctor in the U.S.
However, it was mentioned that the prescription should be for the generic name of the drug.
I take some medications that are still covered by patent and can't be filled by generics. What happens in a case like this?
Carl in Tampa
Tampa, FL USA Mon 03/27/2006
Paris - Picking up the RER at CDG
My son and I will be ariving at CDG This coming Saturday AM. We will take the train and Metro to our hotel on rue Cler. My question is how difficult will it be for us to find the RER at the CDG airport? Will there be easy to read sign to direct us? We will arrive on American Airlines.
Joe <email>
Indianapolis, IN USA Mon 03/27/2006
Connections from Ft. Williams Scotland
We will be in Ireland the last 2 weeks of May. Plan to make our way to Ft. William, Scotland to ride the steam train Which opens on 5/28/06. We have to fly out of London the morning of 5/30/06. Does anyone have suggestions for the best rail connections? Commuter Airlines? I'm having trouble making rail connections work. Thanks for any suggestions Teresa
Teresa Pritchard <email>
St. Croix, USVI USA Mon 03/27/2006
Paris
My husband and I were in Paris (staying near Rue Cler) in November when the first riots broke out. The only evidence we saw was a huge police presence on the Champs d'Elysee. When we mentioned that to the man at our hotel desk, he said the only reason there were so many police was "to protect us." We watched the local news each evening, but never saw the riots firsthand. We traveled all over Paris, but weren't affected by any of that. I agree that you just need to be smart and careful and, most of all, have a great time!
USA Mon 03/27/2006
Low Cost flights within Europe
Tom,
One thing to consider. By the time you add transportation to the airport, preboard time, flight time, locating and waiting for ground transportation, and transportation into town, that 1 1/2 hr flight to Warsaw will likely consume close to 5 hrs.
DB runs three direct EuroCity trains per day from Berlin Ost to Warsaw. The travel time is 5 1/2 hrs. and the fare is €39.
Considering the best fare I have seen for a direct flight to Warsaw is $168 (it's for a round trip ticket, but it is cheaper than any of the one way fares I found - just throw away the return) you should look closely at the train.
<email>
USA Mon 03/27/2006
Is Paris Burning?--To Mark
In the early 60's, 61 especially, France was all a turmoil over the black-feet, the people from newly independant colonies in Africa. In 1968, it was other things such as the socialist and communists disappointed in their government. They set fires in the streets of Paris, in the shops, etc. They were fierce and rude and loud and rough. They were called students and some may have been. But mainly, they wanted into the society and not to be left out. The police shot water cannon and tear gas any which way. We saw brutal beatings and some Sisters, I think from Sacre Cour, tend the young people and a police officer. My bride and I were on honeymoon in Paris, in love in the city where love is an institution. And then this. The honeymoon could have been ruined, but the excitement of the times and the importance of them took me. I was living Les Miserables or at least watching the barricade scenes from a little way off. We have been back several times. It is still Paris lethal, seductive, and joyous as you will. I don't remember the hotels we stayed at or the restaurants or the museums we went to, just a very few names. But I remember the times and how awed I was in watching society, Paris and the rest of France, molt like the cigales in Provence. Perhaps France is molting again. Perhaps this is something you will remember well past the forgetting of where you stayed and what you ate and how pretty the night lights are along the Seine. You recognize the secret of survival--common sense. Go with open eyes and ears and witness a small bit of the continuing transformation of one of the world's great societies.
hg
USA Mon 03/27/2006
Travel from Sorrento to Massa Lubrense, Italy
A friend & I are traveling via train from Milan to Sorrento in June. We need to get to Massa Lubrense that same day (yes, a long trip). Is there another train, or bus for the last leg? Cost? Time? Should we splurge on a taxi?
Isadore204
NYC, USA Mon 03/27/2006
singapore airline
Singapore Airline has the reputation of being "the" best airline in the world. I once flew them from NYC to Amsterdam, while the flight was enjoyable, they weren't any better or worse then any other airline I have flown.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 03/27/2006
Carl in Tampa
There should be no problem filling a prescription in Europe. Just make sure of two things: 1) the doctor PRINTS clearly. The ususal doctor chickensctarch will not be acceptable. and 2)be sure the doctor uses the generic drug name, not a brand name. For example, the doctor should write "Ibuprofen", NOT "Motrin".
USA Mon 03/27/2006
International driving permit
For what it's worth, we were asked to show it when we rented from Avis in Florence Italy in summer of 2004. Don't know what would have happened if we hadn't had it though. I suspect that, regardless of Avis official policy, it's up to the clerk at the desk to decide to enforce the policy or not. And that may turn on whether they've overbooked and are short on cars.
So, really the question is, how badly off would you be if it turned out that the clerk refused to hand over the car to you because you didn't have the permit? If the answer is, it wouldn't matter much, you'd just take busses and trains to your destination, then rolling the dice may be worth it to you. But if you would be seriously inconvenienced--say, because your planned itinerary would be hard to do on public transport, then the 10 dollars is probably worth it.
JER
USA Mon 03/27/2006
Re: Corkscrews
Actually, per TSA guidelines, corkscrews are permitted (and have been for some time) in your carry on luggage; Pocketknives, no. Check http://www.tsa.gov/public/display?theme=177 for details. I would suggest that you take one that you can afford to lose, even though they are allowed, the individual screener has the last call, and arguing is not wise. Also, some airlines within Europe may prohibit them. As for the knife, consider packing a couple of plastic knives.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 03/27/2006
Singapore Airlines
My wife and I are headed to Europe in June. We were able to use United Airlines frequent flier miles to get tickets on other Star Alliance flights. One leg, JFK to Frankfurt, is on Singapore Airlines. Does anyone have experience with that airline, or any sage advice they could lend?
Dave <email>
Richmond, VA USA Mon 03/27/2006
Is Paris Burning?
We are leaving for Paris on April 7th. Aside from the obvious "Good Luck!", does anyone have any suggestions/recommendations/stories from locals/etc., regarding the current Student Protests and potential General Strikes?
Even though we are staying near Rue Cler, I understand even the 7th Arr. has not been immune from protests.
Hopefully common sense and a lot of good luck will keep us out of harm's way. I'm just hoping the Metro doesn't strike when we are there!
Any thoughts?
Mark Elliott <email>
Baltimore, MD USA Mon 03/27/2006
Low Cost flights within Europe
Tom...another suggestion, if the ones already listed don't work, is http://www.whichbudget.com/
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 03/27/2006
Tarifa to Tangier
Sue - There should be no problem in taking the ferry from Tarifa to Tangier. We traveled from there last September. Rick gives details in his Spain book, and Tangier is much nicer than the alternatives. Evidently, when ferry service started out of Tarifa some years ago, the Spanish government sought to protect the existing ferry services originating in other Spanish cities by limiting the Tarifa ferry to EU residents. That restriction is either very relaxed now, or completely gone. Check the book for sure.
Ron <email>
DeWitt, MI USA Mon 03/27/2006
Medications and Prescriptions
I'm about to tour Germany, Switzerland and Italy with a group of 37 people who I know.
We have been told to bring not only our medications in their original containers, but also prescriptions for each of the medications written by our doctor in case the medications get lost or stolen.
Question 1: Will a pharmacy in these countries fill a prescription from the U.S.?
Question 2: One member of our group is a physician. Can he bring his prescription pad and write prescriptions for any medications that we lose (assuming he does the appropriate health appraisal prior to writing the prescription) and will it be filled by a European pharmacy?
Thanks.
Carl in Tampa
Tampa, FL USA Mon 03/27/2006
International Driving Permits
Janice...perhaps the authorities are cracking down, trying to get the auto rental companies to make sure their drivers are properly licensed....like they must do here before renting a car. International Driving permits are required to drive with an American license in many countries...the license itself, technically, is not good enough. If Avis insists, you probably don't have much choice but to obey the law. And Bea....more conspiracy theories! Tsk tsk. I'll remember to tell the next Spanish police officer who stops me on the highway that he's a "retard" because he can't read the English on my driver's license.:) Perhaps check the laws of the countries you're visiting before you make such blanket statements!
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Mon 03/27/2006
low cost euro airlines
Here's info on most, if not all, the low cost Euro airlines with links to their web pages (scroll down for the list, following the more detailed info about the major ones: http://wikitravel.org/en/Discount_airlines_in_Europe
Kristin
Bellevue, WA USA Mon 03/27/2006
Pocket Knife
You can't bring those items inside a plane; they have to inside checked luggage.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 03/27/2006
With airport security being what it is, how do you transport (a) a pocket knife or equivalent and/or (b) a corkscrew in your carry-on luggage???
Howard <email>
mahopac, new york USA Mon 03/27/2006
Re: International Driving Permit
It seems this question comes up every so often. To put it simply, an IDP is like insurance, you don't need it until you need it. In addition to being a translation, the IDP is also an internationally accepted document verifying your licensing status. Most rental agencies will not ask for one (they are there to rent cars, not enforce laws) and unless you get into an accident or pulled over, will never use it. However do not assume just because you can get away without one, that it is not required (Myself, I can drive all over the US without a drivers license...until I get caught). Italy is one of the countries that requires an IDP. You can find more information at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1179.html.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 03/27/2006
Low Cost Flights
Try www.whichbudget.com
Jeff
USA Mon 03/27/2006
International Driving permit
Janice,
I rented a car in Amsterdam in 2002 and took it to France, germany and a few otehr countries, but they didn't ask me for an International Permit.
That's weird taht Avis asks for it. I rented the car from europecar.com. Prices were very good and it was cheaper to rent the car from Holand then from France. Check their web site if it's not to late.
bea
Cleveland, OH USA Mon 03/27/2006
berlin to warsaw
Tom,
Go to this link courtesy of Chopin Airport:
http://www.lotnisko-chopina.pl/katalog/linie/en/linie_lotnicze.php
It lists all the airlines that serve the airport and has links to their websites.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Mon 03/27/2006
International driving permit
I'm aware of ETBD's advice re: International Driving Permits and I was prepared to blow it off. The issue is that Avis said specifically that it was required for the car rental. I'm wondering if anyone else has been asked to present it when picking up their rental car. We rented in France the year before last (through Avis) and were not asked for it.
Janice
Philadelphia, PA USA Mon 03/27/2006
Low Cost flights within Europe
I am going to europe in August, flying into Frankfurt then Prague, Berlin,Warsaw Krakow, Veinna them Venice. We plan to travel by tain but wanted to ask, on some of the longer train rides can I get low cost airfare. I thought when I get to Berlin to fly to Warsaw, but the only flights I came up with went somewhere else them to Warsaw and were very costly. Are there any low cost flights from Berlin to Warsaw and if so how can I find out about them. Thanks Tom
Tom Kohanski <email>
Euclid, Ohio USA Mon 03/27/2006
Cork-Amsterdam-Brussels-Cologne
I suggest you fly to Amsterdam. According to the timetables at www.bahn.de, you can take regional trains from Amsterdam to Brussels, from Brussels to Cologne, and from Cologne to Amsterdam. Those trains are cheaper than the Thalys trains.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 03/27/2006
multi city travel...from Cork..with kids.
Hello everyone. I am trying to plan a trip to visit relations in Leuven [nr brussels] & cologne from Cork Ireland. I have 3 small children. There are no direct flights from Cork so was thinking shd I fly to Paris and get the train to Brussels and train then to Cologne and back to Paris fly to Cork. OR should I fly to Amsterdam and train that way. I am having real probs trying to figure out the easiest [and most economical...]route. Ideas would really be appreciated.
Cecilia <email>
Cork, Ireland Mon 03/27/2006
Belfast Hostels
The following information comes from the Rick Steves and Lonely Planet Ireland guidebooks.
Hostels near city center: Linen House (www.belfasthostel.com) Belfast International Youth Hostel (www.hini.org.uk)
Hostels in south Belfast near the university:
Arnie's Backpackers
Ark (www.arkhostel.com)
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 03/27/2006
Hungary, Budapest, Debrecen, & Hortobagy
WE & another senior couple need recommends for reasonable places to stay in these towns. also are there day tours to see the Hortobagy horsemen.from Debrecen ? we will be traveling by train & would apreciate any help.
Jean <email>
riverside, CA USA Mon 03/27/2006
beds
For the person catching my mistake, you are right about the twin beds. Beside the point you make, I also wanted to point out that you ask for a room with twin beds, for example, not for a twin room. It is a distinction they seem to make in Western Europe. A kind French clerk in Paris once explained this to me.
Max C
USA Sun 03/26/2006
indo.com / a bigtime booooooo
The site has big flaws. For example, the maps for Europe are Mapquest. They are good, but lacking. Driving directions comes up "Forbidden" The maps for US are so-so. For example, I put in my home address and got a map with a close up that showed my home where it isn't because it left off the part of the street where my house is and has been for 35 years. **** The airfare links are poor. My spot check---I used Chicago to Paris rt--showed flights at more cost and longer duration than the same flight on the carrier's site. The distances from city to city are next to worthless for a traveler but great if you are launching an ICBM. They give straight line miles and kilometers. The distance--again from Chicago to Paris is less than the milage on an AirFrance direct flight. **** It was interesting though to find out there are two dozen cities named Paris in the world and all but one are in the US. For US maps, the Rand McNally site is superior. For Europe, Michelin is far more useful and easier to use than Mapquest or Mappy because it is so comphrensive.
USA Sun 03/26/2006
for Max C
I think Chris left out a few words and meant to say "... a twin room WITH ONE BED" doesn't exist..."
USA Sun 03/26/2006
Europe not otherwise
For those looking for information on destinations other than Europe, check out the Thorn Tree forum on LonelyPlanet.com.
PS, there is plenty on Europe there too.
USA Sun 03/26/2006
EUROPEAN DISTANCES
Another good web site for European distances is:
www.indo.com/distance.
USA Sun 03/26/2006
B&Bs AND ZIMMER FREI ROOMS
Swan is right about asking at the Tourist Info Office for rooms. Most times it is in the RR station or air terminal.
I have always found those people helpful. They will ask what kind of room you want and your price range.
They will telephone and reserve the room for me. I always ask for a room within walking distance.
CARLOS
DALLAS, USA Sun 03/26/2006
HOTEL ROOMS
When you book a room and don’t know how many or what kind of beds you have, inspect the room first and ask for another if it doesnt meet your needs.
You are not obligated to accept a room that is not right for you.
RENO, NV USA Sun 03/26/2006
WALKING PORT TOURS
I have taken several cruises and always avoid the tours offered by the cruise line.
I usually walk onto the dock and ask someone where I can catch a tour bus.
Some times you dock close enough to the city center that you can walk into it. You wont know unless you ask.
bobby
chicago, USA Sun 03/26/2006
BELFAST HOSTEL
I found a web site which lists all Belfasts hostels. The closest one to the International Airport is Chimney Corner Hotel which is 10 miles away.
This page lists all the hostels: www.bootsnall.com/hostels/re/Northern+Ireland/Belfast+Hostels.php.
Take a look at this web site:
www.hosteleurope.com/hosteldetails.php/HostelNumber.9664.
This Malone Hostel is only 6km from the Belfast City Airport (3.6 miles). It is 20km from the International Airport.
USA Sun 03/26/2006
Belfast
Travel to Belfast: It takes about 2 1/2 hours to travel by train to dublin. Cost about $30 euro. ( you might be able to take the train cheaper through 3rd class) don't know much about hostels
Seattle, WA USA Sun 03/26/2006
Travel to Greece with 4 & 1 yr olds
I am considering traveling with my two young children (4 & 1) to Greece in October. Can anyone recommend travel tips specific to the area or fun things to do, or advice at all for Athens and possibly the islands. Thanks
Shamain
Atlanta, Georgia USA Sun 03/26/2006
Belfast
Am flying into belfast in may.Don't know much about Belfast.Is there a good hostel close to airport? How far is it to Dublin by train or bus?Any must sees there?Thanks
Jayne
fl USA Sun 03/26/2006
International Driving Permit
An interntional driving "permit" is simply a translation of your domestic license into several different languages. If you going to be traveling to a country where english is widely understood, the "permit" isn't really necessary. If your travelling through Eastern Europe where there would be more of a language barrier, a "permit" might be worth it.
Michael Schneider <email>
ny USA Sun 03/26/2006
International Driving Permit
Janice.....International driving permits are "required" in many countries....whether the police care or not is up to the individual officer, in many cases. To quote from Rick's website, "Police can get mad — their concern is in finding the expiration date — and fine you if you don’t have an international permit. Those driving in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Austria, Germany, Greece, and Eastern Europe are likely to be fined if found without an international driving permit, and should probably get one (at your local AAA office — $10 plus the cost of 2 passport-type photos). Note that you have to carry your American driver's license as well as your international permit." I guesss the question is....do you want to take the chance?
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 03/26/2006
twin/double beds
Ray, you have a conflict in terms and I wonder if they are deliberately mis-used by some hoteliers just to confiuse the issue. Properly a twin room does not exist, and this may be putting too fine a point on it, because a small room with a one twin bed is a single. A larger room with one twin bed is also a single. A larger room with a double bed (European sizes, not American) is a double. The same room with two single or two twin size (they are the same) is a twin. There are also some places with a larger room with 2 doubles. These are rented as a quad or even as twins if a twin bedded room is not available and that is what the customer demands. You can get lost among the zigs and zags in terms so watch the price. That double double being given to to as large twins may carry an inflated price. The simplest is to ask for a room with two twin beds, not a twin room. European hoteliers understand the meaning of the term very well, but some will test you.
chris
USA Sun 03/26/2006
Alitalia
Does anyone know anything about alitalia? Do you have to be concerned about strikes?Also, I read somewhere that strikes cannot occur in Italy in summer months. Is this true?
KS
CA USA Sun 03/26/2006
TWIN VS DOUBLE ROOM?
My wife and I are looking at hotel rooms for this summers vacation and wonder if there is any real difference between a "Twin Room with One Bed" and "Double Room with One Bed" ?
Hotels generally list both options and there is usually little or no cost difference.
Ray Maines <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Sun 03/26/2006
Re: Cheese please
While in Amsterdam, we bought a small wheel of Gouda (wtih the wax still on it, as Kate recommended). The clerk vaccum-sealed it in plastic. She said that the vaccuum seal would make it safe to bring into the US. She seemed more familiar with US customs laws than we were. We declared the cheese on our US Customs form and were never asked about it. I'm not claiming full knowledge of US Customs laws, just relating an anecdote. I do know that meats are forbidden.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Sun 03/26/2006
G&P Dublin - Prague Accommodation
We stayed at the U Tri Bubna last fall. Right by the old town square and great for accessing everything. We mainly walked, but the trams and metro are close by. It is in Rick's book and I think shows the web site. We had a huge room on the top floor. Not much of a view and a long walk up. Breakfast is basic, but reasonable for Europe.
Iain
Edmonton, AB Canada Sun 03/26/2006
Permit, for Janice
We were not required to have an international driving permit in Italy last summer (nor in the UK, either) when renting cars. I really liked the service and prices with AutoEurope (I have seen other favorable reviews here for this company), and one of our rentals through them was with Avis- you might check it out. Their customer service in Boston was helpful and efficient.
Karen
USA Sun 03/26/2006
Tatra Museum in Koprivnice
Has anyone visited the Tatra Museum in Koprivnice (East CZ)? If so, was it worth the effort? I am planning my itinerary for a Nov. 2006 trip to Prague and and other points of interest in the country. Also any feedback on Olomouc would be appreciated. Thanks.
Jim <email>
Beaverton, OR USA Sun 03/26/2006
Food and US imports
Hard cheese is fine - I've brought and sent cheese to my parents from the UK without any problems. It's better to have a whole round with the waxy coating still out, but I've not had problems with slices of cheese. So long as it's not soft or gooey.
Meat or ANYTHING with meat in it (canned food, vacuum packed food, sauces etc.) is forbidden.
Kate
Kate
Scotland Sun 03/26/2006
International Driving Permit
Anyone have experience with a car rental agency asking for an international driving permit? Avis advised me that it was mandatory for my future car rental in Italy.
Janice <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Sun 03/26/2006
Hotel Etruria & Palazzo Bruchi Siena Italy
We will be in Siena, Italy for two nights and I am choosing between two hotels with similar rates. Piccolo Hotel Etruria (I've heard the breakfast is very sparse) and Palazzo Bruchi. Can anyone advise?
Anne Hartman annehartman@comcast.net
Anne Hartman <email>
Newton, MA USA Sun 03/26/2006
FIUMICINO HOTELS
Italian Tourist Office List: http://www.enit.it/alberghiris.asp?Lang=UK&ID=2099&Luogo=FIUMICINO
USA Sun 03/26/2006
walking port tours
We will be in Norway and Sweden in Aug. But only for one day each. We don't want to take any of the tours offered by our ship, does anyone had suggestions for lunch and a good walking tour?
Char Meese <email>
Plant City, FL USA Sun 03/26/2006
convents
Help! Has anyone stayed in any of the convents of Rome/Vatican City? I would really appreciate some info. Thanks!
Julie <email>
Springfield, Ohio USA Sun 03/26/2006
Tom-- carryon bags on AF
not always-- last time they weighed my "persona item"-- a small totebag-- when my only other carryon was a computer bag!
USA Sun 03/26/2006
Carry-on bags on Air France
Several weeks ago I asked about carry-ons on Air France. We didn't want to risk losing bags when flying from CDG to Cairo. The larger of our two bags was bigger than the 44" (combined dimensions) that Air France allows on board. ANSWER: They couldn't care less about sizes. When we checked in at CDG, we fully expected to check our 51-inch (combined dimension) bag. The clerk asked if we wanted to carry it on. We said "yes". He said "fine." We had a smaller bag (44") plus two large totes. He said to say the smaller ones were "computer bags". No problem at all. The plane was a 777 and had plenty of space in the compartments. So, I don't know about other routes, but from CDG to Cairo. . . No problemo!!
BTW, Air France is one terrific airline! Much classier than USAir that we flew from PHL to CDG.
Tom <email>
Summerville, SC USA Sun 03/26/2006
Prague accommodation
FOR G&P, DUBLIN:
I have stayed here on two occasions. Avoid accepting the cheapest rooms because they are in the attic and have only sky-lights.
http://www.betlemclub.cz/
Otherwise try the Ibis Hotel Group.
Graham <email>
UK Sun 03/26/2006
Cotswald B&Bs
Several years ago I arrived in Moreton without a reservation. I went to the TI a couple of blocks from the train station where they had a list of B&Bs. They set me up (in my price range) and I walked to the B&B.
Swan
USA Sun 03/26/2006
a place to stay in prague
you need to be specific you are too vague. apt, hotel b/b, price range, what? and what "sites" do you mean? web sites, or tourist sights? ive been there a couple of times like you for a month or more but i stay with family.
tom vicic
USA Sun 03/26/2006
Prague Stay Recommendation?
We'll be in Prague for the first time March 28th-May 1st and i'm having touble making heads or tails out of booking a place to stay. We need a double for 2 of us and the recommended site from the 2006 book lists some places as booked and then not depending on the web page details...?
Any recommendations on mid priced places to stay near the sites? or can we really still find a place when we get there this time of year?
thanks! we love reading all the boards!
G and P
Dublin, CA USA Sun 03/26/2006
Bringing home the cheese
The Border Patrol does have jurisdiction over imports, but what you have in mind, as I understand your question, is not actually an import but something for your personal use. That's Customs under the US Treasury jurisdiction. You can go to Border Patrol and Customs via www.cbp.gov or you can go via www.ustreas.gov-CBP.gov-home page. Both should get you to the same place. On that page, at the bottom I think, is a Q&A link that will take you to a page with lots and lots of common questions. It also has a search bar for your specific questions.
hg
ILL USA Sat 03/25/2006
Cheese Please
The United States Department of Border Protection and Customs will provide the information you want. It has many links and can be frustrating if you do not read the leads and headings carefully.
USA Sat 03/25/2006
Quiet Hotel in Amsterdam
DB:
On my first trip to Amsterdam, I stayed at the Toro Hotel on Konigslaan - and I have stayed there on all of my subsequent trips, because I like clean, quiet and comfortable (but convenient) places, and I have never found another hotel in Amsterdam which meets those requirements as well as the Toro Hotel.
Located on a very quiet side street, in a good area (some of the other buildings along the road are embassies), the hotel overlooks the lake in the Vondelpark. (Ask for a room at the back to get a view over the lake from your room.) No, it's not a canal view - but it's a great view.
I would not recommend this hotel for children, however, due to some rather valuable-looking antiques displayed in the public areas of the hotel. Also, no groups are accepted at this small hotel.
Although it's in a very quiet area, the hotel is only 2 short blocks (5-minute walk) from the # 2 tram (which runs frequently until after midnight). This tram stops at both the Van Gogh Museum and the Riksmuseum on its way to downtown and Centraal Station - the only time you would need to transfer to a different line would be to visit the Anne Frank House.
The disadvantages are that this hotel has no restaurant, only a breakfast room, and the breakfast is rather basic, with the same stuff served every day. (Not that it's difficult to find a restaurant in Amsterdam.)
I think the tram stop for this hotel is "Emmalaan," but I may not be remembering correctly - that might actually be the next stop on the # 2 tram line.
David Flurrie <email>
Philadelphia, PA USA Sat 03/25/2006
Sleeping in Convents in Italy
The Church of Santa Susanna, home of the American Catholic Church in Rome, has a Web site: www.santasusanna.org. Listed there you'll find convents in Rome and other Italian cities that provide lodging for tourists.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 03/25/2006
AMSTERDAM HOTEL
We stayed at the friendship b and b located in the southern canal belt . It is a nice stroll to all the museums very quiet neighborhood www.friendshipbnb.nl it is a houseboat close to the Amstel Hotel,A small canal just off the Amstel River .
john
ky USA Sat 03/25/2006
Italian Convents
My 19 yr. old daughter and I are meeting a friend in Germany and traveling to Italy (August). Our paper listed a site for staying in convents in the Rome/Vatican City area. I haven't read anything from anyone on this site about the convents. Anyone stayed in one? Recommendations?
Julie <email>
Springfield, Ohio USA Sat 03/25/2006
AMSTERDAM HOTEL
We stayed at the Hotel Brouwer in Amsterdam in June 2004. It is a very old canal building, but very charming. We loved our room overlooking the canal and we loved the Dutch breakfast each morning. The owners were very nice and helpful.
www.hotelbrouwer.nl
AF
Salinas, CA USA Sat 03/25/2006
Cheese please
Where do I find information about items that CAN be brought back into the US through customs?
I think I remember that we aren't allowed to bring cheese, but we can bring meats that are vacuum packed - Anyone got the website link?
I know wine is fine, but I want some chees