Travelers' Helpline: 2007
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.
French language tapes
Bonjour! In regards to the questions about learning language CDs, I have had success with the Global Access publisher - specifically "Passport to Mastering French" and then the Spanish version. I looked it up on Amazon, and there is a new deluxe version coming out in May. I know Barnes and Noble has carried this before.
I will admit that I took French in high school, so this might have made a difference. BUT, I didn't remember a lot of it.
If you have time, you should also look at your local community center. I took a beginning French class through our local parks and rec. program - no grades, no homework, no pressure, but it was great and helped with the pronunciation.
Have you also looked at your local library or a used book store?
Erica
DuPont, WA USA Wed 01/31/2007
Amsterdam
A girlfriend and I are traveling to Amsterdam in September. We are looking for some great accommodations that are reasonable.
Pat <email>
Glendale, AZ USA Wed 01/31/2007
Rachel/Spain
I feel Rick Steves' Book on Spain does a very nice job. I do believe the last edition I had gave info. on public transportation in addition to driving yourself. He provides a good itinerary in the book. If you have never traveled in Spain, I think this book is worth every penny. Have a great trip!
Kim
USA Wed 01/31/2007
Booking on Trenitalia's website
I got all the way thru to the log-in section without a problem booking a 3-hour express from Como to Zurich. Never seen it tell you you have to reserve it through a railway station or "authorized dealer." It tells you during your initial search whether it's available for purchase on-line, so there shouldn't be any holdup after that.
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Wed 01/31/2007
Re: One of Two Cities
I would head South during that time of year for an escape from the cold. My advice is to hop on a cheap Ryanair or Easyjet flight to Barcelona or (even more exotic) Morocco. You can fly roundtrip for less than $100 and it's a nice way to mix things up. Happy travels!
Sandra <email>
WA USA Wed 01/31/2007
Re: Carry-on restrictions London
They are the same as here at home concerning the quart sized bag in a carry on. You can have one quart sized Ziploc containing all liquids. All liquids have to be in containers 3 oz. or smaller. No playing around because nobody at the airport (especially in London) thinks it's funny.
USA Wed 01/31/2007
Re: Booking on Trenitalia
Trenitalia is tricky. Just buy the ticket when you get overseas, it will be there.
USA Wed 01/31/2007
Booking on Trenitalia's website
I have been working with their website and it appears that I am unable to book a trip from Como to Zurich. I think it's telling me that I have to reserve directly at a train station or through an "authorized" dealer. Has anyone run in to this on trenitalia? Is it because I'm going to another country?
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Wed 01/31/2007
Venice Taxi's 24 hours??
Hi-
We are traveling to Italy and I am trying to plan where to stay in Venice. Our flight leaves really early in the morning and I wanted to make sure we could get to the airport at 4:30 Am. Does anyone know if their water taxis run 24 hours a day???
Thanks
Julie
El Dorado Hills, CA USA Wed 01/31/2007
Re: Carry On Restrictions
Go to the London airports site, www.baa.co.uk.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 01/31/2007
3 Weeks in Spain Slow Travel
We are a family of 4 (2 adults 2 10year olds) flying into Barcelona and out of Madrid in July 2007. We have 3 weeks. I would like to see Galicia (my family is originally from the area). Would you recommend an itinerary. We would like to stay a while in each spot and settle in and are willing to fly since the distances are large. Any travel agency your would recommend?
Rachel Tracy <email>
San Rafael, Ca USA Wed 01/31/2007
RE: Eurail... to reserve or not to reserve
The rule of thumb is:
"If you have a specific train picked out for your journey and it would absolutely positively ruin your vacation if that particular train was sold out" then RESERVE ahead of time.
If it wouldn't bother you to catch the 2:00 train instead of the 12:00 train then you're flexible enough to not need reservations. You're also going in the low season so you really shouldn't have any problems.
Tim
USA Wed 01/31/2007
Eurail... to reserve or not to reserve.
My husband and I are traveling to Europe (Netherlands-Belgium-Luxembourg-France-Germany-Sweden-Norway) in late March-early April. We are purchasing a Eurail Pass (10 days in 2 months)... but I'm so confused on the whole reservations thing. Do I wait until I get there to reserve... as we are traveling during a slow tourist time... or reserve from home? Also, how much to reservations usually cost with Eurail pass? We're fresh college graduates on a budget!
Britta <email>
Fargo, ND USA Wed 01/31/2007
gyor
too many problems with eurailpasses here, my suggestion is to stay away, or you will be buying a new ticket. scams abound here.
sam
ham, USA Wed 01/31/2007
one or two cities
paris, holland, or just visit other parts of england.
mike
tor, USA Wed 01/31/2007
14 Days in France
I'll have 2 weeks to explore France in March and am planning my itinerary. Any info on the following cities/areas I would greatly appreciate: Alsace, Lyon, Provence, Montpellier, Toulouse, Biarritz, Bordeaux. I'm very interested in learning about the cuisine and pastries specific to each region, so great dining experiences you've had I would love to hear about.
Kathy <email>
USA Wed 01/31/2007
One (or Two) Cities
I'll be in London visiting relatives in late November and want to take a 3 or 4 day trip to Europe from London. My question is this: if you had to pick just one (or maybe two) cities to visit, which would they be, given the time of year and my limited days? I did an all-over-Europe trip about 11 years ago and loved just about everywhere, but I've forgotten much of it. I'm very curious to hear what everyone's favorite cities and places are today, and why. Thanks!
Melissa
Atlanta, GA USA Wed 01/31/2007
TSA
Altho we rarely fly bcuz we cant stand airports, we have been TSA'd a few times, causing inconvenience and wasting time. You should assume that EVERYTHING is prohibited and buy what you need in Europe unless it is necessary for you to bring(i.e. specialty items not routinely sold in stores).
There are more stores in Europe than here. If you cannot find something there you are not looking. Enjoy your trip.
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Wed 01/31/2007
Stroller for travel
Stroller: My grandson is 3 1/2 and the size of a five year old. We still take his umbrella stroller to the mall and if he doesn't use it, we put our heavy purses and shopping bags in it. I say "take it!!"
USA Wed 01/31/2007
Another thought on Strollers!
In a recent trip to Italy, we saw many, many "older" children (presumably Italian)in strollers. Let's face it...few young children can keep up the pace of adults walking around in large, busy cities. Bring the stroller!!!!
USA Wed 01/31/2007
gastronomique in Paris
My sister-in-law tells me there is a gastronomique in Place des Vosges that is fantastic, but she cannot remember the name or the exact address. Anybody know about it?
Elizabeth <email>
St. Louis, USA Wed 01/31/2007
Re: Milano to Paris
Discount fares for day trains can be as low as 25 EUR. If you want to save the cost of a night in a hotel and have more daylight hours for sightseeing, take the night train. Discount fares can be as low as 35 EUR for a bunk in a six-person couchette, 55 EUR for a bunk in a four-person couchette, and 100 EUR for a bed in a T3 sleeper. For the extra space and comfort, go with at least the four-person couchette. Book up to 90 days in advance at www.trenitalia.com.
Among budget airlines, easyJet, Volare, and Meridiana are better choices than Ryanair because they use airports that are closer to each city. The earlier you book, the better the fare.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 01/31/2007
Yes- take the stroller!
I still remember when my daughter was about five. She was so exhausted after a day walking around Amsterdam that we all perked up when we saw the strollers available at the Van Gogh museum, our last stop. (I wouldn't have minded climbing in myself!) She sort of flopped over the sides a little but didn't care and it kept her going a little longer. Travel is hard on everyone- I am super fit and walk fast for miles at home, but notice that city walking, especially foreign country city walking, is exhausting. The stroller might be a bit of a hassle to bring, but think how handy it will be in the airport, waiting for customs, etc- and it is also a safe place to keep him constrained in various situations you might not generally encounter at home.
another mom
USA Tue 01/30/2007
Superbowl in Frankfurt
Just FYI: There is a giant public viewing Super Bowl Party in Frankfurt with live airing of all the action on Sunday nite in Frankfurt. The Frankfurt Galaxy American football team and their cheerleaders and plenty of locals will join. For more information google the keywords, check with frankfurt.de or contact me.
Andreas <email>
Frankfurt/M., Germany Tue 01/30/2007
Airfares
I have traveled to Roma many, many times, going back to 1951. Since about 1990 I have paid as little as $430 round trip and as much as $775 (for an upcoming trip). It is a new world every day with the airlines. I know Rick always recommends you use a travel agent, that will always cost you money. Start looking for tickets no more than 3 mths before you want to leave, use sites that will send you notices of lowered fares BUT ONLY TO HELP GUIDE YOU. As Rick and others recommend, Opodo is a one of the best for prices.(www.opodo.co.uk/opodo/HomeServlet
There are other good sites too, but Orbitz, Travelocity, Expedia are almost always too high. It takes some daily searching.
Charles M. Luther
USA Tue 01/30/2007
Volterra Lodging
Check Welcometoitaly - Il Portone B&B. Several types of rooms to choose from. It looks like there is parking.
Bonnie
Tigard, OR USA Tue 01/30/2007
Milan to Paris
I like the train ride between Milan and Paris. It's an all-day affair. Last fall the train left Milan about 9 am arriving in Paris about 4 pm. It's possible to leave the cinque terre at about 6 am (Monterosso) and arrive in Milan in time for this train. Be sure to consult current train schedules. Of course you can do all this on only one day of your railpass. Such a deal.
Swan
USA Tue 01/30/2007
Travel from Milano to Paris?
We will be traveling from Milano to Paris. Any ideas on the best way to go - train or air?
RJC
Lakewood, CO USA Tue 01/30/2007
Geno -- Venice - Carnavale --- Advice
Last February I went to Milan, Venice, Florence, and Cinque Terre, then back to Venice to catch the plane home. That last night was during Carnivale, and it was absolute magic. (Of course, I'd totally fallen for the city by then.) It wasn't any more crowded than it had been pre-Carnivale, though I wasn't there during the day.
During Carnivale, it's obviously more touristy, more commercial, and more of a party atmosphere than the usual understated class -- but, for instance, St. Mark's Square is decorated absolutely beautifully, and there are free concerts, etc., almost every night.
Stick to your itinerary and don't worry.
RomanHans <email>
USA Tue 01/30/2007
Tickets-to-Europe.com
Has anyone used http://www.tickets-to-europe.com. I don't know anything about them, but found a great airfare.
Karen <email>
CO USA Tue 01/30/2007
Re: Train from Paris to Florence
The German national rail site, www.bahn.de, has timetables for most of Europe. According to that site, the fastest day route takes 10hr15min. Leave Paris at 08:04, change in Milan, and arrive in Florence at 18:19. The direct night train takes 12hr16min. Leave Paris at 19:00 and arrive in Florence at 07:16.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 01/30/2007
Volterra lodging
Does anyone have a recommendation for a place to stay in (or close to) Volterra, Italy where you can keep a rental car right on the property?
Boni
CO USA Tue 01/30/2007
Although my daughter was pretty much out of the stroller stage at 3 1/2, we bought a lightweight umbrella stroller for a trip to Disney (I know, not Spain, but the endless walking is very similar). It was a life saver! She could just put her little head back and take naps so easily...something hard to do on Dad's shoulders. I could also hang a bag on the back of the stroller with her things, which made it very convenient. Carrying a child endlessly(especially in Andalusia!!!) would be very hot and tiring. I'd take the stroller!!!
USA Tue 01/30/2007
Train from Paris to Florence
I was looking online at train travel between Paris and Florence. I encountered some contradictory info. Rail Europe stated that the trip takes close to 20 hours. Trenitalia (sp?) states that the trip takes less than 8 hours. What'sthe deal? Does anyone know how long it takes?
Steve
Sonoma County, CA USA Tue 01/30/2007
Getting to vinyards for Bryan
The vineyards are for the most part out in the countryside, so your options are to drive, bike, or sign on with an organized tour. There often caves or wine markets in larger towns where you pay a fee, get a tasting cup, and get to try out the vintages.
Beaune is in Burgundy, which is not in the south. Apart from the wine, I think that Burgundy is more interesting than Bordeaux, though the Bordeaux region is close to other parts of France that are very memorable.
Not to freight your trip with stuff you don't want, but renting a car or a bike is not hard and can greatly extend your reach, especially if you are interested in what is essentially an agricultural art. If you arrange in advance you can rent a car for short periods for day trips. There's a bike shop in Beaune that rents great machines and will advise you on your route based on your interests and experience.
Have a great time!
Adam
Boston, USA Tue 01/30/2007
Stroller for 4-year-old? Planning a 2-week trip to Andalucia in May; we'll be renting a house, but taking day-trips to cities and sites (Seville, Granada, Gib., etc.)
Does anyone have experience with a (just turned) 4 year-old on this type of trip? Is bringing our umbrella stroller a total waste, as my husband says, or will it save us enough to bring it along? He claims he'll carry our son on his shoulders when he gets tired, but won't that be a lot of the time? We are training our son to walk more (we walk for exercise and he must walk for part of every session!)
Thank you so much for your help!
Kelly
St. Louis, MO USA 01/29/2007
USA Tue 01/30/2007
Re: TSA rules
Good information, but one comment points out why you should review rules for all countries on your itinerary (and I am speaking from experience) The TSA actually allows corkscrews in carry-on luggage. Now agents at the checkpoint may have other views, and you are in no situation to argue, but I can board a plane in the US with a corkscrew in my carry-on. In Europe however, corkscrews are prohibited in carry-ons (Maybe those crafty wine drinking Europeans are just more deadly with it than us Americans) So it is within the realm of possibilities that you can fly out of the US just fine, but be caught up in security in Europe. Sort of makes you have to investigate and plan for the least common denominator.
Paul <email>
IA USA Tue 01/30/2007
Traffic Infraction in Italy
During our trip to Italy this past September we rented a car from Hertz in Venice. On the first day of our trip, as we exited the autostrada, we noticed too late that we used the wrong toll road to pay in cash. An operator wasn't in sight, our request over an intercom for help received a response but then we were ignored so as the line behind us grew all we could do was go through the toll without paying. Cameras were in use so we expected to eventually receive notice of a fine. The reason I am writing at this time is because Hertz just sent us notice to say that they are charging us 18E ($24.04 on our Visa bill) to cover administrative costs "incurred in providing the driver name and address information to the relevent authority in Italy subsequent to notification of a traffic offence". I contacted Hertz Customer Relations where a "file" was created. I was informed that because these request are becoming more prevalent Hertz must charge an administrative fee. I pursued the matter further and was told that a member of management would review the file so we'll see what happens. Has anyone else had this experience with a rental agency? Is charging an administrative fee the norm? If not, I won't rent a car through Hertz in the future. Thanks for your help.
USA Tue 01/30/2007
Florence
I have stayed in both Florence and Siena and took the bus between them.I liked Siena better to sleep in.After the daytrippers leave it is a great place with good restaurants.
jack <email>
Sheboygan, wi USA Tue 01/30/2007
Passport tip
"My favorite travel tip is to scan your passport and email it to yourself. That way if you lose your passport, you can print out a copy from any cybercafé in the world." This was taken from David Lebowitz's web site. Sounds good to me.
USA Tue 01/30/2007
Italy airfare?
My new husband and I are planning our belated honeymoon in Italy for the end of June this year. Neither of us has flown internationally before. About how much should we expect to pay for airfare from a large hub like ATL or Raleigh-Durham to Rome? I'm suffering from sticker shock & don't want to "jump the gun" if prices are will fall soon. Any advice on paticualr websites, or websites vs. travel agents? TIA!
carmcray
Charleston, SC USA Tue 01/30/2007
Help! TSA Carry-on Rules...
I am so confused. My husband and I are planning a 15-day trip in September 2007,and I have been trying to make sense of the TSA carry-on packing guidelines. Okay, I get the 3-oz limit -- liquids and gels. I get the one-quart ziplock bag per person. What I find hard to believe is that I need to put all shampoo, conditioner, deodorent, makeup (I'm 50+ and vain), and small samples of all the appropriate assorted OTC medications (I'm 50+ and he's 63...) in this one-quart bag???? Then, there's the issue of a corkscrew/Swiss Army knife for picnics overseas...sigh. What's the point of purchasing a new (hanging) toiletries kit? Seriously. Help. Not having been overseas post-9/11, confused in Wisconsin....
Deborah Coleman <email>
Sussex, WI USA Tue 01/30/2007
Re: Hotels in Nice
Another hotel in Nice recommended by Rick Steves is the Hotel Le Clemenceau (www.hotelclemenceau.com). It is located between the train station and the beach and would be a litle cheaper than the Excelsior Hotel. I agree with Rick's description: "A two-star hotel that feels like a three-star." The rooms are quite spacious.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 01/30/2007
Rothenburg
The Nightwatchman's tour is entertaining. Its just a few bucks, and you meet up with him in the townsquare. Forgot what time. No reservations needed
AZ USA Tue 01/30/2007
Foreign languages
All of the CDs that I listed are CDs that I listen to in my car. Pimsleur, Instant Immersion and Michael Thomas. If Costco doesn't have them, most bookstores do.
Doberry
USA Tue 01/30/2007
Greek Island Hopping
I would recommend the Book "Greek Island Hopping" by Frewin Poffley (Thomas Cook publishing)www.greekislandhopping.com for the best comprehensive guide to transportation, etc. to navigate your vacation. www.greektravel.com is a fun website with lots of good info. The ferries travel at all hours of the day and night--slow, but cheap and reliable. Catamarans and hydrofoils are faster and more expensive, but can be cancelled due to weather conditions. Hydrofoils "flying dolphins" are mostly used in the the most sheltered waters, like the Dodecanese Islands. Every Greek Island has many, many travel agencies with reader boards in them that show each and every day how to get from island to island--which boats are running at which times. These are your most up to date, reliable guides. Except in the high season, you usually don't have to be very concerned with making reservations too far in advance. Your best approach to Greek Island Hopping is being flexible and open. If you do travel the Dodecanese region, be sure to hop over to Turkey for at least a day trip to Kusadasi, Bodrum, Marmaris, etc. This will really add some enchantment to the journey.
Richard
Bellingham, WA USA Mon 01/29/2007
Significant Jewish Sights in Rothenburg
To add to the posting by the gentlemen from New York below about Rothenburg-- For those interested, in addition to the monument described, there are quite a few sights of Jewish significance in the city. Not too far from the main square is a street, "Judengasse" (Jewish Street), which contains a plaque dedicated to a famous rabbi from the 17th century as well as Jewish gravestones built into a wall dating back hundreds of years. We were also surprised, yet delighted, to find several rooms dedicated to German Judaic artifacts in the Imperial Museum, amongst the museum's other terrific exhibits. With Germany's dark past and with no real Jewish population left in Rothenburg (most of Germany's Jews reside in large cities such as Frankfurt, Berlin & Munich), it is fascinating to see that Jewish life once thrived there.
CA USA Mon 01/29/2007
Re: Cora- Rothenberg
I agree w/ the other postings below re: Rothenberg- it IS tousrity, but also a lot of fun and deffinitely merits a visit and over-night stay. Best part is at night after the day-trippers leave and the town takes on a much calmer pace. Some highligts- don't miss the tower off of the main town square (walk up to the very top for great views of surrounding countryside), walk on part of the wall surrounding the city, the Imperial Museum and, just outside of one of the gates surrounding the city, the small church which also has a moving monument outside to the Jews of Rothenberg murdered in a pogrom in the 1200s. From this church, you also get a great view of the town. I forget the name of it, but there is also a beautiful church off of the main town square with an incredible wood carving of the last supper. The Kathy Wolfhart stores market Christmas to the hilt all year round, but still fun to see and great chance to bring back some reasonably priced gifts/ornaments for friends/family A reccomended B&B- pension Butz, on a quiet square just behind the main town square. It's above a cafe and nothing fancy, but VERY clean and neat guest-rooms, with large, v. clean private bathroom. Very reasonable rates too. Enjoy Rothenberg- you'll have a lot of fun.
Lawrence <email>
New York, NY USA Mon 01/29/2007
Learning basic French
Try downloading from itunes.
There are lots of great FREE downloads for languages.
If you don't have itunes/ipod...where have you been?
USA Mon 01/29/2007
Wine Tasting in the south of France
Hi,
I am taking a solo trip over to Europe this summer and would like to see the south of France, and in particular go wine tasting. I am only 22, and I am wondering a) where the best home base would be (I have heard Beaune and Bordeaux) and b) how does one get out to these wineries? I am from wine country in Southern Cal. and, so far, it seems like one has to rent a car to make the trip everywhere. Any guidance would be great!
Bryan <email>
Los Angeles, CA USA Mon 01/29/2007
Eurail Pass/Leonardo Express
Have a first class France-Italy Eurail pass which is good for Leonardo Express (or so I've read). Will arrive in Rome from U.S. and will be taking Rome to Florence train the day of arrival. Can I have my Eurail Pass validated at the Rome airport so that I can ride Leonardo Express at no extra charge?
thanks for any input
Andy <email>
Vancouver, WA USA Mon 01/29/2007
France in Dec?
Hi all- Planning a trip to France in early Dec. '07 (would be back in States by around the 16th). Would appreciate anyone's feedback re: traveling in France at this time. Plan to visit Paris (may only spend night or two as will be my 3rd time in Paris), Normandy, Chamonix/Mt. Blanc (ski if possible at that time or just spend a night or 2 there and take Agui du Midi (sp!) cable car, Provence (base myself in Avignon-sp!) and possibly Nice for a few days with side-trip to Monaco. If it helps- have traveled to Europe a few times in Dec. and enjoy cold weather and have already been to Paris, Versailles and the Loire Valley, but other areas in France I list above would be new to me. Main questions-- I know that all of the sights/hotels/restaurants will be open in Paris in Dec., but what about in Normandy and Provence/Avignon? Do the various van tour companies in Normandy that Rick lists in his France Guide operate in Dec? Finally- if anyone has any good reccomendations for hotels/B&Bs in Chamonix (I am always willing to spend a bit more for clean/pleasent places), would be appreciated. Many thanks, in advance, for any info you can share.
Lawrence <email>
New York, NY USA Mon 01/29/2007
USA Foreign Language series
Thanks for the heads up of the car series of learning a language. I'll check it out at Costco. I'm sure I would do okay in the car trying to repeat the words!! I'll keep my eye on the road!
OR USA Mon 01/29/2007
Eurostar at Waterloo Station
It's well marked. You should have no problem finding it.
Swan
USA Mon 01/29/2007
Re: Greek Island hopping
Any of the sites that give ferry timetables will also give Hydrofoil schedules. They will be indicated by name, but also evident in travel times. There are actually three basic choices, the traditional ferry, the catamarans, and then the hydrofoils. Be aware that the hydrofoils are the most likely to cancel runs due to weather and high winds/seas. I would focus less on whether the boat was a hydrofoil (which have limited service) and more on if a ferry connection fits my schedule. As for hopping, my experience is more leaps. Most ferries travel during the day, so even short journeys can take up half a day, and rarely does it work to get off on one island spend some time and get on another ferry the same day. Your pace, at best, would be to travel only every other day; and may be affected by routes that are serviced only every other day or only a couple times a week. Keep in mind also that routes are like train tracks with established routes. In some areas, you can literally see another island, but no way to get there other than to go to Athens and back. You will find it is most efficient to follow the established route.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 01/29/2007
Eurostar platform at Waterloo station
We have an EARLY morning Eurostar ticket from London to Paris. We'll be leaving from Victoria Station to Waterloo station to catch the train. Does anyone know how to find the Eurostar platform at the Waterloo station. Is this something we should make a dry run of first, or is it well marked and easy to find?
USA Mon 01/29/2007
Foreign language series
I prefer the kind of foreign language CDs that I can listen to in my car...the ones that DON'T require you to follow along in the manual (dangerous in traffic!) I got my "Learn in Your Car" series at Costco. Although I've used several different series, I find that I study more when I'm alone, driving in my car, having someone "talk to me" and I repeat back.
USA Mon 01/29/2007
Learning French, Italian
Buon giorno, I get on line and look at different websites that you can have audio and learn the words that way. We tried the CD's from Costco and didn't like them. Maybe I don't have the knack one needs to learn from a tape. Good Luck. Ciao
Bonnie
Tigard, OR USA Mon 01/29/2007
Spain/South of France traveling
I am traveling with my husband to Barcelona in mid-April for a week. We have another week and would like to head east toward Nice or west to Seville and/or Madrid. We've never been south of the Loire Valley and love France. It looks like we can rent a car and drive to Madrid or Nice in about 8 hours...is this true? Is the travel okay? Any other transportation that would be suggested would be great. We'd like to stop along the way vs. stay in one city the whole week. We are in our upper 30s.
Amy <email>
Denver, CO USA Mon 01/29/2007
Rothenburg
We agree that Rburg is touristy in day but it is much less so at night. We stayed in a small pension (Pension Becker) on Rosengasse ( about 6 blks from town center). Walks near the town are terrific, countryside gorgeous and inviting. Hikes n biking everywhere. You must enjoy the AREA. The town is nice but only a part of the experience
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Mon 01/29/2007
Been to Rothenberg
I've been to Rothenberg a couple of times, but instead of staying in the town we spent the night at Colmberg Castle which is about a 10 minute drive from Rothenberg.
Rothenberg is a nice little village to walk around in. It's overrun with tourists so be prepared for that. Colmberg castle was a treat for us and I would highly suggest it as a place to stay instead of Rothenberg.
Tim
USA Mon 01/29/2007
Learning Basic French
French: I like the Pimsleur CDs and I have another set that I really like that I think is called Instant Immersion. I think Pimsleur is best for beginners.
I am working on Italian now and I have a set of CDs by Michael Thomas, I think that is his name. It is not the beginner's set but I like his method a lot and am pretty sure that he is French and probably has a French language set available. Warning: he got bad reviews on Amazon, but I have learned a lot from listening to his CDs.
Doberry
USA Mon 01/29/2007
Learning Basic French
If you have a Costco near you, they sell CD language sets for $30. I picked up the one for Italy and it is great.
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Mon 01/29/2007
Romantic road/Rothenburg
Thanks for all the advice for the Romantic road travel. I think Rothenburg will be worth 2 nights!
I don't drive so i still must decide between the bus or train. I'm still wondering how much you can see out of the bus, and if it's worth the time. If theres not much to see I think i will just take the train.
Thanks
Cora <email>
Mon 01/29/2007
Romantic road/Rothenburg
I agree with Gary. Depends on where your interests lie. If you are a shopper you may want 2 days. (2 half days and one night might do ya) If the weather is clear, and you are healthy, be sure to take time to climb to the top of City Hall and view the area. If your trip to Germany involves other trips through the countryside, go ahead and take the train. There are lots of quaint towns in Germany. If the bulk of your time will be in big cities, take the time to ride the bus and see the little towns along the way. If you are on the bus they may or may not actually go into the towns and you may just see the towns from the "main road". There is nothing really ALL that special about the road itself, its just a road through the countryside. If you're one that likes to linger and enjoy the scenery, take the bus. If you like to just hop to the next "hot spot" take the train
USA Mon 01/29/2007
Learning basic French
Can anyone recommend a French tutorial on DVD or CD? We just want to learn enough of the language to be able to get around and have our questions answered, and pronounce the words in France french, not American french. Thanks
AZ USA Mon 01/29/2007
Romantic road/Rothenburg
The Romantic Road is a marketing fiction, but a pretty nice one. It basically a collection of Romantic Era towns.
My two favorite stops north of Munich are Rothenburg and Würzburg. Others swear by Dinkelsbühl. You can not reach all towns on the Romantic road by train; Dinkelsbühl is only serviced by bus. If you wish to stop at some of the smaller towns, a car might be more convenient.
Rothenburg and Würzburg are serviced by train.
Rothenburg is touristy but worth it for my money. It is a unique walled medieval city. We stayed two nights but you can certain hit the main sights in a single day. I really like poking around in the various churches and the city museum, and 2 days gave me time to do all I wanted and still spend a bit of time in various cafes. How many days you would want to spend would depend on your approach to travel, fast paced or...
Regards
Gary Mc
Salt Lake City, USA Mon 01/29/2007
Pegoty's tea shop
Try calling them at 011-33-1-45-55-84-50 from the U-S.
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Mon 01/29/2007
Re: Greece with Kids
I would put my vote in for Naxos. It is a few hours from the mainland and it has a variety of activities: beaches, small museums, winding streets and shops, temple ruins on an pennisula, two ancient quarries with a large statue abandoned in each, hiking trails and hills filled with goats. There is an open-air movie theater at one end of Naxos town. There are also daytrips available to Delos/Myknonos or Paros or Santorini. If you don't want to fit in Delphi, Delos, an island sacred to the ancient Greeks and full of kid friendly (but probably not stroller friendly) ruins, is a good alternative.
I'd also second Nafplio, it is on the mainland but has a beach, a fort and lots of daytrip opportunities to places such as Myceneae (Bronze Age Greek city), and Epidauros (huge, ancient theater). Have fun, Greece is amazing.
Katharine
Seattle, WA USA Mon 01/29/2007
Pegoty's Tea Shop
We have visited Pegoty's Tea Shop on Ave. Bosquet 7th arr. several times in past years. Unable to find out if it is still in business. Have not been able to get a phone no. on Pages Jaunes or any other information. It you have been there recently or have any info would appreciate it. Thanks.
USA Mon 01/29/2007
Delphi with kids
When we went to Greece, Delphi was a highlight for my 11 year old, but he has been a Greek Mythology fanatic since toddlerhood- whether or not that's true for your children, reading the myths before going will really help bring meaning to what they see- for example, the crack in the Parthenon. Delphi can be done in a long day trip from Athens- we used a tour company that picked up and dropped us off at our hotel and was essentially a big bus ride there- not a private tour. People were unbelievably friendly to our kids, which really made the trip so much nicer! The Plaka district was a great place to stay, with quieter narrow winding streets and tons of shops.
Karen
USA Mon 01/29/2007
Greece
The breeze through tour of Athens can be done in a day, with the Acropolis and Agora in the morning and the Arch. Museum in the afternoon. Fill in with some non-ancient stuff, walking the Plaka and shopping is actually fun, The flea market area is interesting, and catching the main city market in the morning is interesting, the teens will never forget the meat section. As for islands, avoid Mykonos and Santorini; look into maybe Tinos or Paros; another island but not destination would be Nafplio on the Peloponnese coast, not too far from Athens by bus, nice old town section with a couple of forts above, pebble beaches, good family destination.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 01/29/2007
Greece with kids!
I have two older kids and one baby and we want to spend time in Greece. I'd love to island hop, but I think that might be a lot on the baby. So, we're looking for a peaceful island with just enough exploring to be able to keep the older kids happy. Any suggestions? What's your favorite peaceful island--no too far from the mainland?
Also, how long do we need in Athens to see enough to satisfy the adults, but not drag the kids all over the place? Do we need to trek over to Delphi, too, or is that something we can see when the kids are older? Thanks!
Joy <email>
Cincinnati, Ohio USA Mon 01/29/2007
Public holidays in Prague
Hi:
We will be in Prague on July 4-6 but have only just realized that July 5 and July 6 are public holidays there. Can anyone advise if the shops and various historical sites are open or if everything is shut for those 2 days.
Thanks!
Nadine
California
Nadine
Oakland, CA USA Sun 01/28/2007
Venice - Carnavale --- Advice
Plan to do Venice (Feb. 18 - 20), Florence (20 - 22) and Rome (22 - 24). Arrive Venice late on 18th and leave early am 20th. Just realized that this is during Carnavale. Does this make sense to go to Venice for 1 and a half days during Carnivale. Still want to see the Doges Palace, Academmia, etc. Should we expect thousands of tourists? Long lines? Impossible sightseeing? We were trying to avoid the crowds by going off season. We know we will only hit the highlights. Oh, travelling with 16 year old - mature and a GREAT traveller.
Geno <email>
Olympia, WA USA Sun 01/28/2007
Lodging
My husband and I will be traveling to Europe this fall and will be spending a couple of nights in Colmar, France. Any recommendations for B&B or other accomodations from anyone who has been there?
S. Kosik <email>
Manzanita, OR USA Sun 01/28/2007
CINQUE TERRE B&B
Bonnie: My wife and I landed in Vernazza without reservations and had no problem finding an apartment.
The week we were there we watched many travelers arrive and find housing.
When you walk down the main street you will find lots of people offering to show you rooms.
Be sure you inspect the room before you take it. Making reservations is OK but I would prefer to see my room and also to see the view of the harbor out the window .
Not all rooms overlook the harbor.
That time of year finding a room in your price range should be easy.
USA Sun 01/28/2007
Romantic road/Rothenburg
Just wondering if anyone has taken the romantic road tour bus, or driven the romantic road. I plan to leave from Munich and head to Rothenburg, is it worth it to take the bus threw the romantic road or should i just take the train? any advice would be great.
Also if anyone could tell me how they like Rothenburg, is 1 night enough or should I stay 2 nights?
Thanks
Cora <email>
Canada Sun 01/28/2007
Traveling by river (Rhine)
It is possible to cruise all around Europe, but river cruises are rather expensive and slow (and this year, with the drought and river levels, are not able to go everywhere). I'd probably take the train for parts of it, then river boats here and there for the fun. We have bicycled along parts of both the Rhine and Danube and then taken a boat back to our starting place. Both rivers have regular boats on at least part of the river during the summer.
Karen <email>
CO USA Sun 01/28/2007
Train to La Spezia
It might be good to have a seat reservation during high season. However, we went from Florence to La Spezia in late June, just walking up and getting a ticket from the machine for the next train - plenty of space (I think we changed trains in Pisa). Mostly you need reservations for the newer, fancier, more expensive trains.
Karen <email>
Colorado Springs, CO USA Sun 01/28/2007
Florence Reservations
The cheapest way to get reservations for the Florence museums is to call the number in Rick's Italy guide (and talk to English speaking reservationists). Reserving over the internet is VERY expensive!!! When you reserve on the phone, they just give you a reservation number that you show them, then pay when you arrive at the museum. This way, if something comes up and you can't make it, you haven't paid anything. Also, when we went in December, there was no line at the Accademia, so we didn't use our reservation code. Reserved tickets cost an extra 3 Euros, so we saved money by just buying our tickets in the regular (not reserved) line.
USA Sun 01/28/2007
Cinque Terre B&B's
Looking for a B&B/room that is on the harbor of Vernazza. Can't find email or website info on Memo Room but I'd like to stay by the harbor with a view. Albergo Barbara won't take requests/guarantee a view room. Want to stay under 100 euros. We'll be in Vernazza October 23-26. Thanks.
Bonnie <email>
Tigard, OR USA Sun 01/28/2007
Greek Islands Hopping Transportation
I am planning to travel around the Greek Island in June. I need to figure out schedules of hydrofoils (not ferries) among the islands. Can you please recommend good websites that I can get scheduling & fare information? Thanks!
Sunny H
Philadelphia, PA USA Sun 01/28/2007
Luggage to London
To Puyallup, Was~~no you will not have to claim your luggage and recheck it. When you check in they will tag your luggage that will show your destination as London, so it will be loaded onto your plane in Chicago.
Ohio USA Sun 01/28/2007
Florence Advice
Sue,
We were in Florence last summer. I reserved tickets for the Academia and Uffizi at least a month in advance and had no problem. We visited the Academia gallery in the morning and went to the Uffizi in the afternoon. The Academia is a pretty quick tour. It was amazing to see David. We went to Sienna on the bus. We just bought our bus tickets at a tobacco shop across from the train station the day before we went. I think you can buy the bus tickets practically anywhere. There are many buses going to Siena every day. We thought we were going to visit another hill town on the same day, but we had so much fun exploring Siena that we didn't make it anywhere else.
Andrew
Andrew
Canada Sun 01/28/2007
Travelling in NZ
Julie,
I see you don't have any replies yet to your query about travelling in NZ. As a 'local' I'd be happy to help with any info you want, if you email me. You are going at the best time of the year to visit, weatherwise - good choice. We do get a lot of rain here, but not so much in Feb/March. Yes hostels are usually very safe places here, but wherever you go, be careful of your belongings, just like you would anywhere else.
Di <email>
Northland, NZ Sun 01/28/2007
Accomodation in Milos Greece
I'm travelling to Greece this May and staying in Milos for several days and I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions for a good place to stay there.
Thanks.
Chris <email>
Huntsville, Ontari Canada Sun 01/28/2007
Rhine travel
Karen and James - We did already search Rhine travel online, but found mainly cruises of a longer duration that went further than we wanted - or hop on/off boats that didn't go the whole distance. But thanks for your suggestions. I'll keep looking, but I guess we'll have to fly or train after all.
Di
Northland, N.Z. Sun 01/28/2007
B & B London Recommendations
OK - I've changed my mind - how about if I ask for recommendations for B & B's in London - centrally located, quaint/cozy/clean/wifi?/. I'm now looking at the Britiannia Court Hotel and the London Guard's Hotel - both in Bayswater.
Any clues for a first timer?
Thanks,
Sandy
Sandy
Minneapolis, MN USA Sun 01/28/2007
For 19Y with the hold baggage question:
One other thing worth mentioning is that both you and your bags will have to go through customs at the first airport you stop at upon your return to the USA, that would probably be Chicago in your case. At that point you will have to gather up your bags and check in again to get back to SEA.
USA Sun 01/28/2007
Re: mp3/ipod question
Hi Ted -- not a dumb question at all, I'm in my mid 30s and just got my first iPod a month ago! I recently flew from Denver to Seattle, took my iPod in my carry on bag that went through the xray machine, and had no problem with it and got to enjoy my tunes on the flight. Not to worry. :-)
Michelle
Denver, CO USA Sun 01/28/2007
mp3/ipod question
I realize by the question I'am about to ask I'am showing my ignorance reagrding these devices (I'am in my late 30's ,(not to mention got my first mp3 player recently) so give me a break, lol) So my question is are the airport security x-ray device harmful to these devices when they go through them?
ted
washington , dc USA Sun 01/28/2007
Rhine River
Look on-line for Rhine River Cruises. There are cruise boats going up and down the Rhine River, you should be able to find something there.
James Hoffman <email>
Leominster, MA USA Sun 01/28/2007
Reservations at the Accademia
I have done this three ways, by telephone after I got to Italy, by internet before I left, I can't remember the website, and once when we were staying at Soggiorno Battistero, I think Kelly made the reservations for us.
I know it sounds crazy, but I am usually in Florence with someone who has not been before and I go with them. As a matter of fact, I will be going back to see David with my sister this March. I will probably make reservations over the internet before we leave.
Doberry
USA Sun 01/28/2007
Pompeii guide
This is from Rick's Italy 2007, Gaetano Manfredi, tel. 081-863-9816, movile 338-725-5620, email 3387255620@tim.it. I don't remember how much he charged us. The tour lasted around 2 hours. I think when it was over, we may have paid him a little more than he asked for because he is such a good guide.
I will contact my friend who hired him last year and see if she remembers what they paid him for a tour.
Doberry
USA Sun 01/28/2007
london b+b
too far try the annexe hotel on the web
bob
USA Sun 01/28/2007
Luggage Check
Amys and Kims advice is correct IF you are traveling on the same airline or they code share. If it is two different airlines then you would have to recheck BUT that should be made clear to you at checkin. AND you should have two separate tickets.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Sun 01/28/2007
Florence advice
I am going to be in Florence in March and have a couple of questions I hope you all can help me with. I want to make reservations to the Accademia.Tips for best method to make reservations? Best time of the day to go?
I also want to take the bus to Sienna. I know I can buy tickets for the bus at several locations. Any tips about this? Do I need to buy tickets a day or so in advance?
Has anyone bought a bus ticket combo and done Sienna and another hill town all in 1 day?
Thank you,
Sue
Sue
Ohio USA Sun 01/28/2007
Checked Luggage 19Y
That is not a stupid question as the only way to know luggage is checked threw to the final destination is to experience it first hand or ask. Have a great trip and seek out the information you want and need.
Kim
Iowa USA Sun 01/28/2007
London B & B recommendation?
My family is going to be traveling to London at the end of May. I'm just wondering if anyone has stayed at either the Jesmond Dene or At Home in Ealing? What did you think?
Sandy
Minneapolis, MN USA Sun 01/28/2007
Travestere Apartment
Need to rent an apt. in Rome from Mar 16th thru the 28th. Would prefer Travestere area. We are two adults and want to keep the price to about 100 EUR per day. Would love suggestions on specific apartments and booking agents. Thanks
Deb <email>
Clearwater, FL USA Sun 01/28/2007
Re: Luggage to London
To the lost 19 year old. They will route your luggage to London. The sticker they put on your luggage at your point of origin will have London as the final destination and it will be loaded on the same planes as you... So once you check your luggage, you can relax and enjoy your layover without having to worry about it!
Amy
Clarksville, TN USA Sun 01/28/2007
French canal self cruise
I wondered if anyone has had expierience renting their own barge/ boat on the canals of France? We are interested in cruising the Canal du Midi.
Rachel <email>
Fairfax, Va USA Sun 01/28/2007
Rhine travel
I took a Rhine cruise last summer from Boppard (near the Lorelei, south of Koblenz) to Mainz. It was a long day! I don't regret it, but if it were possible to go from Rotterdam to Mainz, that would be really, really long. The cruise line that I took began in Germany, not the Netherlands. The boats aren't all that comfortable. To sit on the deck and watch the scenery go by, it was "every man for himself" as far as finding a plastic lawn chair and claiming a space. On the other hand, perhaps there's a luxury liner somewhere that runs comfortable cruises. I just didn't see any go by.
Karen <email>
MN USA Sun 01/28/2007
What to see in Croatia
We were just in Croatia in September and in Split. It is a delightful place that you will enjoy. Split is great fun and not far from the capital of Zagreb, which is a good visit. The seaside town of Opatija is well worth a couple of days. Of course in five days you can easily see Dubrovnik, very medevil with wonderful people. Nothing is far and transportation is easy. Croatia has spent the last 14 years trying to come into its own right as an independent country. It had to develop a monetary system, a military, schools, a government, etc. It takes great pride in what it has accomplished and welcomes visitors with a great warmth. You will truly enjoy it.
Sherryl
Madison, VA USA Sun 01/28/2007
Driving in Ireland
Kim, driving in Ireland is the only way to go. It is really easy, and actually enjoyable, because everyone drives small cars. SUVs and pickup trucks are almost nonexistent, so it is reminiscient of how driving was in this country many years ago...but with smaller cars. Try it; you'll like it.
Ron <email>
DeWitt, MI USA Sun 01/28/2007
Hotel in Nice
In Nice, I stayed at a wonderful hotel called the Hotel Excelsior (www.excelsiornice.com). It is 1 block from the train station. There are city bus stops across the street trom the train station, which will get you anywhere you want in Nice, and a TI in the train station, where you can arrange day trips. The beach is about a 15 minute walk down the same street the hotel is on, and there's a nice little grocery store on the way.
I really enjoyed my stay there. The rooms facing the street have tiny balconies, which was nice in the evenings. It's in Rick's France guidebook.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Sun 01/28/2007
Rhine travel
Does anyone know if it's possible to travel from Amsterdam or Rotterdam to Mainz (Frankfurt) by river? We will be needing to get from Northern England to Frankfurt and wondered about a ferry over to one of the former cities and then another boat up the Rhine. Just thought it would be an interesting way to get there.
Di
Northland, New Zealand Sun 01/28/2007
Hi! This is a bit of a stupid question but I've never flown with checked luggage before and have a Q. I have a a layover in Chicago before heading on to London. Do I pick up my luggage in Chicago and re-check or does it go straight to London? Please help this stupid, lost, 19 year old!
<email>
Puyallup, WA USA Sun 01/28/2007
hotels/rentals in Nice or area
My husband and I will be travelling to Nice at the end of March and would like some information on any properties/hotels in the area located near some sort of transportation? (i.e train station, metro). We plan to explore the area but we didn't want to rent a car if we don't have to.
Lori
Vancouver, BC Canada Sun 01/28/2007
Re: Munich hotel
We stayed at Hotel Kurpfalz in Munich in March 2005. It was a good deal. It wasn't during Oktoberfest, but it's supposed to be very close to the Oktoberfest grounds. I don't know if they even accept reservations during that period of time, but they're worth looking into if you're looking for a clean place to stay with free breakfast. We're going again in August and will be staying there again.
http://www.kurpfalz-hotel.de/indexe.htm
Amy
Clarksville, TN USA Sat 01/27/2007
Driving in Ireland
Lin, driving in Ireland is not THAT bad. I've driven twice even in downtown Dublin at rush hour. We would not think of going to Ireland without having a car. You can't see the great sights if you are on a bus. You can't pass by a ruin and think oh I want to stop and walk around if you are on a bus. A train - no! You can't take your time seeing some of the sights and you are with a LOT of people if on a bus. Rent a car. If you are gone more than 17 days lease a car. We've done so 3 times. We love Ireland. If you want more information email me direct. Happy travels!!
Bonnie <email>
Tigard, OR USA Sat 01/27/2007
Rome to La Spezia
I definitely would get a reservation for this train. Trains on the most popular routes in Italy tend to get CROWDED. If you have a reservation you are guaranteed a seat and won't have to spend 4 hours in the aisle.
Swan
USA Sat 01/27/2007
Driving in Ireland
If you consider yourself a good driver, function well under stress, and are able to make quick decissions, consider renting a car. Roads in Ireland are narrow, twisting, and rarely have a shoulder to pull off on. Speeding is a serious problem, and you will see Billboards stating how many people were killed in car accidents in the last year in the region. It is standard procedure to make room for local drivers to pass you on the road. As soon as you see a pull out, drive way or widening in the road, turn on your blinker, slow down and drive close to the side of the road to make room for others to pass more safely. To help you stay on the correct side of the road, try to think about keeping the driver closest to the line down the middle of the road. Think ahead before intering a round about, and watch for other tourists driving toward you on your side of the road (a real rush). As an accident or damage to the car is a real possibility, I like to buy complete insurance coverage. All I need do in the event of accident or damage to the car is hand back the keys and get on the plane home. If you rent a car, I recommend you rent a compact car (just like locals) to make navigating narrow roads and small parking places easier. With a car you will be able to see more and have a richer experience.
Kim
Iowa USA Sat 01/27/2007
Australia and New Zealand
Anyone been to Australia or New Zealand. We are going in Feb. and March. We would especially be interested in the best way to travel through New Zealand. Are the hostels generally a safe environment, etc.
Julie <email>
New Ulm, MN USA Sat 01/27/2007
Ireland in June
My husband, teenager, and I are planning a trip to Ireland in June, and have heard that driving in Ireland is not a good idea. If one doesn't drive, is the rail service and bus transportation sufficient? And is driving in Ireland really all that difficult?
Lin
Des Moines, IA USA Sat 01/27/2007
Euro/Czech Republic
Hi Chris, If I may suggest, visit this web site:
www.PragueBy.com
There is some good info on currency on that site in the Tourist Information category. Happy Travels.
Pat
MA USA Sat 01/27/2007
Pompeii guide
Doberry, Please tell us the information on how to contact the guide to Pompeii. Is he very expensive? How long was the tour? Thanks for any information.
USA Sat 01/27/2007
Seeking Croatia Travel Advice
My husband and I are planning a trip to Italy and Croatia in late April/early May. We would like to take a ferry from Ancona, Italy to Split, Croatia on 4/27 and ferry back to Ancona on May 3rd (we are flying out of Florence on the 4th). Does anyone have any suggestions on what to see in Croatia in 5 days?
I have heard the ferry schedules between the islands are "hit or miss" before June. I have also always wanted to visit Dubrovnik...is renting a car and driving trying to do too much in that amount of time?
I would GREATLY appreciate any advice anyone can offer!!
Carrie <email>
Rio Dell, CA USA Sat 01/27/2007
Pompeii guide
When we went to Pompeii, we hired the guide that Rick recommends: Gaetano Manfredi. We had an incredible tour with him. Last spring some friends were going to the Amalfi Coast and we suggested they hire Gaetano if they toured Pompeii. They did and thought he was as fantastic a tour guide as we did. You can also see Gaetano on Rick Steves new DVD of travel shows.
Doberry
USA Sat 01/27/2007
Budapest (and other) small guidebooks
Fiona, I just purchased DK guides "Top 10" books for Budapest, Amsterdam, Belgium, Prague, Vienna to take this summer. I read Rick's books, then take these because they are smaller. Since we're only staying 3 days in each place, it gives enough info to use for the 3-days after studying Rick's books.
Kathy
Memphis, TN USA Sat 01/27/2007
Hotel/B&B in Rome and Florence
Buon Giorno. Has anyone stayed at 69 Manin Street Bed and Breakfast in Rome.
What was your experience and thoughts?
How about Soggiorno Battistero in Florence? And, Albergo Doni in Venice?
and one more- Alla Madonna del Piatto Agriturismo in Assisi. Grazie
Bonnie <email>
Tigard, OR USA Sat 01/27/2007
Pompeii tour
Can anyone recommend a resonably priced tour guide for Pompeii for a group of 4? We would like to meet the guide there.
Liz <email>
Monument, CO USA Sat 01/27/2007
Hiking North England
I would love to hear from any travelers who have walked coast to coast in northern England, especially those who camped along the way. Any/all experiences, tips welcome!
Geri Hoekzema <email>
Vancouver, WA USA Sat 01/27/2007
Hotel Royal Munich
I stayed at the hotel Royal when I was in Munich for Oktoberfest. It is a pretty basic hotel. A good free breakfast in the morning. It is about a block across from the main train station and about a 15 min walk to the Oktoberfest site. I think the website for the hotel is hotel-royal.de..but if you google it it will come up. The neighborhood seemed a little seedy. As there are about 2 strip joints on the same block. But I walked on the street at night both alone and with my boyfriend and did not feel unsafe at any time. PS. This hotel is listed in Rick's book
Kimberly
Brooklyn, NY USA Sat 01/27/2007
Czech Korunas
Chris - just checked the US State Dept. website and they say that Czech Republic is converting to Euros in 2010.
USA Sat 01/27/2007
Czech money & Euros
Chris - you will want to check out the Czech money situation for whenever you are scheduled to go. We were there in the summer and even though many websites were quoting things in Euro the official money was still the CzKr - lots of ATMS in Prague (the only place we went), we did not use the Euros we had from our Germany travels, and we used up all the Czech money before leaving.
I did think, however, that they were in the process of changing over to the Euro, but wasn't sure when that was happening.
USA Sat 01/27/2007
Czech korunas
The Czech Republic has joined the EU, but as far as I know it has not joined the euro zone - the two are not the same. However, it does have ATMs. I didn't try to use euros in the CR, so don't know if they would be accepted - I usually try to use the currency of the country I'm visiting. Imagine it may depend on where in the country you are.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Sat 01/27/2007
Help with Eurail select pass
We are traveling to Italy,Swtizerland and France in June/July. I have a question about the eurail selectpass that we are going to be using for train travel. We will be going from Rome to la Spezia and the Cinque Terra by train and I'm wondering if we just get on the train in Rome with our eurail pass or do we need to go to the ticket window first with our pass and get a seat reservation. I have traveled on trains in Europe, but never with a eurail pass. I read that trains marked with an R require reservations, but I would like to find out ahead of time which trains we will be traveling need reservations. Our route is Rome - cinque Terra. La spezia. La Spezia to Venice. Venice to Interlaken. Does anyone have some words of advice?
Tina <email>
Hayden Lake, ID USA Sat 01/27/2007
Car Hire Germany
You might want to try Carjet, a consolidator we've used a couple of times in Spain and Britain with success. They cover everything, except, in Germany, the "excess insurance value" charge, which is a deposit you must put on your credit card...refunded when the car is brought back undamaged. But items like Theft waiver, 3rd party liability, and taxes, are all included in the rates. See http://www.carjet.co.uk
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sat 01/27/2007
Car Rental in Germany
What would be the best car rental company to rent from in Germany for 12 days. I have looked at Auto Europe, Bauer, and Gemut. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Jim Hoffman
Jim Hoffman <email>
Leominster, MA USA Sat 01/27/2007
The Euro in Czech Republic
Can someone help me with this one. I understand the Czech Republic should be using the Euro, but their airline, hotels, etc give prices in Czech currency. Is the Euro readily accepted at hotel, stores, and restaurants?
Chris
CO USA Sat 01/27/2007
trips from Barcelona for Kim
Collioure is a nice place. It was a little fishing community then Rick Steves found it. So did Fedor, etc. French trains serve it from Barcelona. You also have Perpignan, Narbonne a bit more distant. The travel time (some trains are from Franca and other from Sante stations)runs from about 3 hours on the fastest trains to close to 5 hours with most between 3.5 to 4.5 hours approximate averages. Carcassone is a left at Narbonne and is worth an over night. The big attraction for the sea-side towns is the beach, but you have that in Barcelona only with a different accent. Unless you have a rail pass, which means you have already paid for passage, try Easyjet out of Barcelona. Easyjet has several flights to French destinations with travel times well less than the trains. This means you are not limited to train towns. My familiarity with Easyjet is 2 plus years old, but I flew from Marseille to Paris in considerably less time than the tgv made the trip from Avignon----and two of us for a bit less than half the tgv fare for one person.
hg
USA Sat 01/27/2007
Agriturismo in Calabria, Italy
We are planing to go to Calabria in June 07. We are interested in staying in an agriturismo. We would like one that is a working farm. I have checked a few websites but would apriciate personal experiences and recommendations. We would like to be centrally located in Calabria. Grazie
Phil Schneider
Seattle, USA Fri 01/26/2007
hotels in Munich
Rick Steves has a whole book dedicated to Germany and an entire section dedicated to Munich...sightseeing, eating and sleeping.
Tim
USA Fri 01/26/2007
A town in France from Barcelona
I haven't been there, but I've heard good things about Collioure. If I remember correctly, it is on the train line that I took from Barcelona to Montpellier.
USA Fri 01/26/2007
hotels in Munich
Can anyone recommend a good hotel in Munich, Germany? We want to go for Octoberfest. I can't find any recommendations for Munich lodging on Rick's site or his books.
Dawnya <email>
St. george, ut USA Fri 01/26/2007
Budapest Guide Book - Fiona
I cannot recommend a guide book, but I can offer a suggestion. We have the Europe book and did not want to carry the whole thing. I had a friend who has the equipment, cut the spine off it and drill holes in it. I bought a small 3-ring binder. Instant loose leaf book. We took what we needed in a plastic bag and only took the relevent pages with us for each day - great for walking tours!
When we came home, we re-filed the pages, and have a whole book again.
Iain
Edmonton, AB Canada Fri 01/26/2007
Arrival in Paris
Michelle,
I agree about just going to your hotel and leaving your bags there while you explore Paris. My husband and I visited Paris in November of 2005 and rode the Metro everywhere. We did it both with and without our luggage. We never had any problems and learned the Metro system quite well while there. It really made traveling around easy and we wished we had that kind of transportation in the small town we live in here in the States. We also left our luggage at our hotel (near Rue Cler area also) and it was no problem, and in fact, seemed to be quite a common thing to do. I hope you enjoy Paris as much as we did. We can't wait to go back!
USA Fri 01/26/2007
Croatia
I hope I have found the right place to post this. We are off to Crotia this spring and would like any tip,suggestions,input and warnings that anyone may have
Jaye
Victoria, B.C. Canada Fri 01/26/2007
Hotel Arrival/Paris
Michelle, Most hotels will allow you to leave your bags behind their desk until check-in time, I would not worry about that. Just introduce yourself, leave your bag and go have fun. Hotels are used to travelers arriving before check-in. Sometimes if the room is ready, they will allow you to check in if it is fairly close to time. You should check out a Paris Metro map to see the quickest route from the station to your hotel. The metro is so easy, almost all hotels are within a reasonable walk. Don't worry about someone running off with your bag. I'd be more worried that I had my valuables in a money belt. Pick-pockets and other quick-snatch incidents are of more concern. Just hang on to your stuff with normal caution. Have fun!
Pat
MA USA Fri 01/26/2007
Easter in Rome with Children
We will be in Rome for Easter with a 4 and 7yr old. Do the shops close for the holiday? Are restaurants open? We are trying to get tickets to see the Pope. Any other suggestions for things to do Easter Sunday would be appreciated.
Lucy <email>
USA Fri 01/26/2007
Arrival in Paris
My husband and I are traveling to Italy and Paris in May. We are taking a night train from Milan to Paris, arriving at the Paris Bercy station in the morning. We'll have about 5 hours before our hotel's check in time (hotel is near Rue Cler).
What should be our plan when we arrive? I understand there is no bag check at the Paris Bercy station. Should we take the metro or a bus to the Rue Cler and leave our bags (1 backpack each) with the hotel, then go and explore? Are we risking having our bags on the metro or bus, and should we instead take a taxi? Or is there somewhere to check our bags near Paris Bercy that would allow us to do the Left Bank walk, for example?
Merci beaucoup!
Michelle
Denver, CO USA Fri 01/26/2007
budapest
maps and guide at any bookstore or library. you will get a free map at any hotel , train station,or tourist office when you get there.
mike
USA Fri 01/26/2007
RE UPS / FedEx'ing items back to USA
In France for sure, and maybe other countries, you can buy prepaid boxes of various sizes at the post office. As long as the box closes their is no weight limit. It takes a couple of weeks.
Jeff
USA Fri 01/26/2007
Re: Black Forest
Hi Cora! Well, you really can't go wrong staying in either Freiburg or Baden-Baden. Both are very very nice. If you are interested, I have photos of both cities from my trip last November at: picturetrail.com/bepineurope . Maybe it will help you decide. Have great fun, and have a brewski for me while you're there! :-)
Bob C. <email>
North Little Rock, AR USA Fri 01/26/2007
A town in France from Barcelona
I am going to Barcelona in late April. We will be staying in Sitges and commuting into Barcelona for day trips etc. We are thinking of making a trip across the boarder to France. Can anyone recommend a town in France to go to that is not a really long train ride to France? I wouldn't mind a 3 or 4 hour train ride..but not much more than that. Happy travels. -Kim
Kim
Brooklyn, NY USA Fri 01/26/2007
It's common for auto rental companies in Europe to limit rentals to persons between ages 25 and 71 (or so). One reason is an age cutoff for insurance provided by the renting company. That an 80 year old has not been denied rental services does not go to liability in an accident because his rental contract with any included insurance provisions could be considered null. You need someone with knowledge of French contract law to tell you what might happen.
USA Fri 01/26/2007
Italy Input
We traveled to the Amalfi Coast and Pompei in November, and loved it. In Sorrento, we stayed at the Bristol (a sister hotel to the Minerva, which was closed at the time,) and it was heaven. Like many hotels on the coast, all the rooms had balconies with a sea view. Spectacular doesn't begin to describe it. There's plenty to explore in the area, and it's a great place to relax.
Pompei is facinating, though it's huge. You need to approach it like the Louvre -- study the walking tours in several guidebooks and a map, and decide what you want to see before you go. If you're into Roman ruins, they don't get much better than Pompei.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Thu 01/25/2007
RE UPS / FedEx'ing items back to USA
This summer in Germany on a trip - I had a few too many souvineers to carry so I sent a box home from the German Post (3-4kg = 28$ or so) - not cheap. They also partner with DHL if im not mistaken. I sent TWO boxes home as I kept buying stuff... another closer to 5kg =40$ or so - and about 3 weeks later they showed up. It would be a lot more expensive for faster! Check out FEDEX and UPS sites (just pick the country you want to visit as your "home" and put in your home US zip code to figure out a 4-5gf box). I tried Fedex w/ Norway (since I may need it on my RS-Scan trip coming up) and it came bak with $200 to California for International Priority. Way too much... you may need to call them for more specific options but do check their web sites for Italy and France.
TMB
CA USA Thu 01/25/2007
2nd trip to Italy. Need input
Howdy. We're planning our second trip to Italy and considering two different itineraries. We are traveling around June 8th. We want to go back to Rome as we missed some things due to Pope's funeral last time, but other locations would be new. Considering either Amalfi Coast one week, Rome a few days, then Cinque Terra a few days OR Rome a few days, Lake Como area a fews days, then Cinque Terra for a week. Any input? Anyone been to Cinque Terra, Amalfi, and Lake Como region? We don't want to try to do everything. Want to stay one place for a week and then hit a couple other places for a few days. We'll be there two weeks. Thoughts? Who has been where? Since it is second time around, want to pick prime places. Also, what about Pompei? People enjoy that?
Kathy <email>
MN USA Thu 01/25/2007
Recommend a Budapest guide book?
Rick hasn't done a Budapest city guide, and I don't really want to carry the nearly 800-page Eastern Europe book just for one chapter (when I won't get to go to any of the other places in the near future). Can anyone recommend another book and/or maps?
Fiona
NYC, Thu 01/25/2007
Black Forest
I need some help on the area of the Black forest in Germany. I would like to tour the area and was wondering the best way.
I am planning on leaving from Frankfurt and not sure if I should stay in Baden-Baden or Freiburg? I don't drive so I was wondering if the area is easy to explore on foot, by train or if there is a bus tour of the black forest area. Would appreciate any advice. Thanks
Cora <email>
Canada Thu 01/25/2007
Window Sessions
Sometimes rembering what screens you have open is a hassle. Press and hold down the 'Alt' key and then press 'Tab' key. A window box opens showing an icon for each open window. (keep holding the Alt key down) You can move the surrounding action outline each time you press 'Tab'. Underneath it describes what the icon is for. When the outline is around the screen icon you want to view, release the 'Alt' key. This saves me a lot of time searching the travel sites.
Dennis
USA Thu 01/25/2007
RE: Uffizi construction
This is in response to Susan in Seattle's question on 1/16 about the Uffizi (which piqued my interest because we're going to Florence in May).
I found this article about the construction. It's supposed to last until 2013, but officials say that the construction won't impact your ability to see the artwork. It will double the size of the museum and number of visitors it can accommodate, which will be more helpful for those who don't get advance reservations! :-)
http://www.ansa.it/site/notizie/awnplus/english/news/2007-01-19_11935734.html
Michelle
Denver, CO USA Thu 01/25/2007
American TV in Florence
Does anyone have any tools they'd recommend to locate a bar in Florence that might be open late night and be broadcasting the Superbowl?
Shari <email>
Chicago, IL USA Thu 01/25/2007
UPS / FedEx'ing items back to USA
How difficult is it to ship items back to the US from France and Italy? I will be traveling for a month this summer, 2 weeks cruising / 2 weeks wandering and do not want to haul my “treasures” around with me. I have preprinted UPS & FedEx forms I can take with me, easily slapping them on a box to ship home. Any tips/suggestions?
Kevin Kurek <email>
CA USA Thu 01/25/2007
Rome B&B and Vernazza B&B
I so goofed not doing more homework about high season and checking prices before I booked my flight. Low season starts sometime in November.
Going to Italy Mid-October for 3 weeks right in the middle of high season. Rome is over 100 euros per night. Has anyone stayed at Amarcord B&B in Rome? I can't find any reviews on "other" sites. Any comments on "Downtown Accomodation" (yes it is spelled with one "m"_.
I've emailed so many places for prices and they are all expensive. I checked Soggiorno Comfort and Tripadvisor has less than good reviews.
Has anyone stayed at Daira Bianchi's B&B in Vernazza. How high up from the harbor are they. It looks quite nice. They are even close to 100 euros per night. These dates are what happens when you don't call soon enough using frequent flyer miles. Message from Albergo Barbara in Vernazza. They are no longer reserving rooms depending on views except #8 or #9. They can't promise a sea view or which floor you will be on. They are located on third and fourth floor - no elevator. Breakfast is not served.
Thank you for your comments. So much for this "budget" traveler over the years. Even most of the B&B's in Rick's Italy 2007 book are high.
Bonnie <email>
Tigard, OR USA Thu 01/25/2007
Susan Adapter/converter
To add a little more clarification to the adaptor/converter discussion. Maybe the phrase that should be used is "plug adaptor." The plug adaptor for all of western Europe (don't have experience with eastern Europe) is the same -- Italy, France, German, etc. England is different so you will need two different plug adaptors if in those countries. Any good travel/electronic store will have a chart that identifies the plug requirements for other countries.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Thu 01/25/2007
Driving through Montenegro
I don't know about Albania, but I was in Montenegro last summer and while I felt safe, I would not have wanted to be driving. We traveled on many winding, one-lane, switchback roads, often times with no guardrail. If another car came from the other direction or if cows were blocking the road, we had drive in reverse to the turn in the switchback to allow the other car or the cattle to pass. I don't remember traveling on anything bigger than a narrow, two-lane road. I was extremely glad it was a local, and not me, who was driving! I drove myself throughout Italy, Slovenia and Croatia and those were not a problem.
RMB
Philadelphia, PA USA Thu 01/25/2007
converters
Converters change the electrical current from, for example, 110 to 220. Adapters allow electrical devices made in one country (such as USA) physically able to fit into the outlets of another country (such as Italy).
Tim
USA Thu 01/25/2007
THE ALPS IN LATE APRIL
Some years you can do it and other years it is difficult. It varies from one year to another.
A lot depends on how good your luck is.
USA Wed 01/24/2007
CAR RENTAL BY SENIOR
I am 80 years old and never been questioned.
But to be safe call your rental agency toll-free number and ask.
USA Wed 01/24/2007
Driving along coastline to Greece
My husband and I are thinking about driving from Vienna, through Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro,& Albania and ending up in Greece. I'm a little uncertain about road conditions and safety in Montenegro & Albania. Anyone out there made this drive before?
Sandy
USA Wed 01/24/2007
Vila Preseren, Bled
We are going to be in Bled, Slovenia, for 3 nights in late June. I've tried contacting Vila Preseren through their website and email, without success. Has anyone had experience with this hotel?
Karen <email>
Colorado Springs, USA Wed 01/24/2007
RE: Adaptor/Converter question
No you won't need a converter. The indication of 110-220 means it will automatically handle power inputs anywhere between 110 and 220 volts, which covers just about everywhere.
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Wed 01/24/2007
Adaptor/Converter question
I am going to Italy, France, and Germany and will brring and electric razon (for my boyfriend) and a recharger for my digital camera. The razor has a switch for 220v so I think I only need an adaptor for that. My batter charger does not have a switch but it does say 110-220v. Do I need a converter as well as an adaptor? Thank you
Suzann <email>
Orangevale, CA USA Wed 01/24/2007
Car rental by senior?
Our "driver" is 74 years old. Will we be able to rent a car in France?
Miff Mendoza <email>
USA Wed 01/24/2007
Eurail Selectpass
Took me awhile to decipher the route, and while I do not have the answer for you, a couple of observations. While the pass does get you transit on some ferries, it only gets you a spot to sit on deck. Unless you are planning on partying all night, or will have a sleeping bag to find a spot, plan on upgrading to an inside seat, or a dorm type bed. Both will be an additional cost of $20 to $100 dollars. At the most, a pass will only save you $60-$70 for the ferry trip. If the cost of a day of pass is more, you are losing on that leg. Second, not sure what your transpotation expectations are in Greece, but both Bus and Train (train is limited to only a very few routes) are dirt cheap, certainly not worth a day of pass. My point being, compare, including Greece in the pass may just not be worth the cost. Greece to Vienna is a long haul, part of a day of travel to Patras, overnight on the ferry, all the next day or night to Vienna. Maybe consider a cheap flight from Greece to Vienna. From there, you may find that point to point tickets are cheaper. Even the trips within Italy and Vienna to Bologne, being on major routes, will require additional charges above what the pass covers.
Paul <email>
IA USA Wed 01/24/2007
lake country district
We 50 somethings did it with the shoes we flew over with, ecco's and Clark's. We walked all over Scotland and Lake District, wales, etc etc. I love tennis shoes, but I also like the Blend in. So I wear dockers or slacks allot, no Blue jeans and Tennis shoes, its screams out look at the American Tourist. Your choice of course, me I like to keep a low profile. Its Amazing how many folks think I am local, until I speak, hehe.
Stephen
Jacksonville, Fl USA Wed 01/24/2007
Hiking the Lakes District - England
Hi! I was wondering if anyone had ever done any of Rick's recommended hikes in Keswick and the Lakes District. Can they be done in tennis shoes (no room for the hiking boots in my backpack!)? Also, will they be too strenuous for 20 somethings in fairly decent health that don't hike very often? Thanks for any help you can provide!
Jenny <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 01/24/2007
The Alps in late April?
We're hoping for a mid- to late-April trip to the alps. Some research suggests that it might be a bad time - for example the Chamonix cable car is closed Easter to mid-May. Has anyone successfully travelled to any alpine destinations in mid- to late-April?
Deanna <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 01/23/2007
ALBERGO BARBARA VERNAZZA
Vickie....I have found that most hotels and hostels in Italy don’t respond to email. It doesn’t mean that they are not taking reservations.
Most travelers have success in telephoning. If you phone be sure to ask for someone who speaks English. Don’t try to talk to the person who answers the phone without asking.
If you go to Vernazza without reservations as I did, try to arrive as early in the day as possible.
You can nearly always find a room. But be sure to inspect it before you agree to rent. Look at as many rooms as you choose to be sure it will meet your needs.
USA Tue 01/23/2007
Flexible International searches
Pat, No, it's definitely NOT difficult to search for international airfare with flexible dates. www.zuji.com will easily allow those flexible date searches...just like Travelocity "used" to do.
Tim
USA Tue 01/23/2007
airfare info
Pat,
It's hard to search for flexible dates overseas, but if you can futz around with your dates you'll see huge discrepancies in the airfare. It seems to me like they start coming down about three months in advance of departure. We have flown to London from JFK for $179 round trip (plus taxes and fees of about $100). Most recently we went to Ireland for about $325 per person (+ $100 in fees).
I just started getting e-mails from Travelzoo -- I've seen flights to Frankfurt for $179! Good luck and happy travels!
Liz
upstate, NY USA Tue 01/23/2007
Albergo Barbara, Vernazza
Vickie, I don't know about Albergo Barbara but for many other hotels if I don't get an email back after 3 or 4 days, I phone. (If it's in a language I don't speak, I make up a cheat sheet.) That way I know immediately if they have the rooms I need and then I fax my cc info. Many hotels don't like to bother with email.
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Tue 01/23/2007
Advance Train Tickets--Italy
Thanks for the tranitalia info. I see that the ticketless ticket pertains to certain trains - I will be taking a mixture of ES (Eurostar) and EC (EuroCity), ticketless tickets are available for ES trains but not for EC trains so I believe I will retrieve the tickets through the machine with my name and pin number.
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Tue 01/23/2007
Use of Eurail Select Pass Days
How many Eurail Select Pass travel days would be "used" by the following travel schedule (pass valid in Italy, Greece and Austria for 10 days in 2 months)?
Italy to Greece:
Day 1-Bologna to Bari, Italy (via train) with continuing travel via overnight ferry from Bari to Patras, Greece (arrive Patras Day 2)
Patras to Bari to Vienna, Austria:
Day 1-Patras to Bari via overnight ferry (arrival Day 2) with continuing travel on Day 2 via day train to Bologna and continuing travel on Day 2 starting after 7pm via overnight train to Vienna, Austria (arrival Day 3). Thanks.
Rosalie Robinson <email>
Kevil, KY USA Tue 01/23/2007
Albergo Barbara Vernazza Cinque Terre
I am trying to contact Albergo Barbara in Vernazza, Cinque Terre....so far no response to my email. I believe they are closed right now to lodgers....does this mean they are not answering email or taking reservations?
Vickie <email>
Durango, Colora USA Tue 01/23/2007
RE: Advance Train Ticket Purchase - Italy
I too have used Trenitalia's site several times, and have found it to be convenient, and certainly cheaper than RailEurope, especially if you can take advantage of the discounts offered on Trenitalia that don't show up on RailEurope. Once you have your e-ticket in hand, just jump on the train and find your assigned seat. The conductor will take the PNR off your e-mail, punch it into a little PDA, and run off a tiny ticket on a tiny printer for you.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Tue 01/23/2007
Travel connections - Meg
Siena has poor train connections. Use the bus to Assisi http://www.sena.it/ and the bus to Florence http://www.mega.it/ita/not/sita.htm
Henry <email>
KS USA Tue 01/23/2007
Travel connections
I will be traveling through Italy this spring '07. I have two questions:
Is there a bus/train from Assisi to Siena? Is there a train from Siena to Florence? Thanks.
Meg Holden <email>
New York, NY USA Tue 01/23/2007
Advance Train Tickets--Italy
I've used www.trenitalia.com many times and recommend it highly. The site is (usually) easy to use. Opt for the Fast Ticket option and pick up your tickets at any machine using your PNR and last name. You can select English on the machine if you don't speak/read Italian. The only problem you might run into on the Trenitalia site is that you are limited to a certain Euro amount of purchases per month. If you reach your limit, use a different e-mail address and create a new password and you can bypass that part of the system.
JSC
Pittsburgh, PA USA Tue 01/23/2007
Advance Train Ticket Purchase - Italy
I will be purchasing a few point-to-point train tickets in advance for Italy (my choice to do in advance for several reasons I won't go in to). Has anyone booked tickets through www.trenitalia.com? I assume they are cheaper than say www.raileurope.com? (I have yet to play with trenitalia's website).
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Tue 01/23/2007
Bonnie in Tigard: Any chance you are NOT locked in to that late evening arrival in Milan? Staying the night somewhere near Heathrow (unlikely to be inexpensive, tho) and flying on to Milan for a more civilized arrival the following day would probably mean that you'd have a better first day transit to Venice. Of course, if you ARE locked in, this won't be very helpful but I can assure you, it worked for me. Best wishes.
k-b
Seattle, USA Tue 01/23/2007
Weather in Venice & Florence
The weather in both places is terrific in April and May. Expect early morning fog in Venice, but temps are great at that time of the year. Bring a jacket/sweater for evenings.
Boni
CO USA Tue 01/23/2007
Villa Nencini in Volterra, Italy
Does anyone know if this place is still in operation? I have emailed them several times to make a reservation, but get no answer.
Boni
CO USA Tue 01/23/2007
Easter in the UK
To USA~~Easter day and Easter Monday you will find some stores closed, but other then that you will be fine. If you are going to be in London, make a stop in Harrods and look at their Easter candy. They have great candy.
Ohio USA Tue 01/23/2007
Vienna to Prague, Fares
Last July I wrote to Austrian Rail about the question of the fare from Vienna to Prague. They answered that, for 2nd class, it is €43,80 plus €3,40 for a reservation. They answered as if that was the fare generally for all such trains, but I had specifically asked about EC172, for which RailEurope charges $98.
I suspect that their fares might have gone up on Jan. 1, but probably not as much as German Rail's fares, which were influenced by an increase in the VAT.
<email>
USA Tue 01/23/2007
Hotels in Athens
Last year the Rick Steves' tours stayed at the Acropolis Select, don't know about this year. It was out of my price range for a single, so I spent extra nights at the Hotel Cecil. Both the Cecil and the Attalos are recommended on Matt Barrett's greecetravel.com and are very well located close to the metro and the Plaka.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Mon 01/22/2007
WEATHER IN FLORENCE AND VENICE
You can find the average monthly of weather for Venice and Florence at these three weather pages:
www.usatoday.com/weather, wwwa.accuweather.com/world-city-list.asp, and www.weather.com/outlook/travel.
SAM
BOISE, TX USA Mon 01/22/2007
Weather
I will be in Venice for the month of April and Florence for the month of May.
Can anyone tell me what sort of weather to expect this time of year in each city?
Thanks
Deb
NZ Mon 01/22/2007
sky auction
i was wondering if anyone has used sky auction.com? if so did you get a good deal? were there any problems getting the number of tickets for the dates you needed? thanks.
angela
berkeley, ca USA Mon 01/22/2007
Budapest to Prague
Perhaps I'm stating the obvious here, but might it be worth your while to come back to Vienna by hydrofoil, then take the train to Prague from there? It's about a 4 1/2 hour run Vienna to Prague, and probably on a better class of train. Austrian railways' website is only partly in English, but RailEurope has individual second class tickets from $87, plus all their delivery fees.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 01/22/2007
Buck up, take the train
I've taken the train from Prague to Budapest. It was 1992 and it was an awful train...disgusting bathroom and the train jiggled the whole way. But hope springs eternal. I'm planning on doing it again in reverse with my parents who will be 84 and 89. It's a lot less stress that way than trying to navigate airports with somewhat mobility-impaired seniors. Just think of how good the beer will taste when you arrive!
Karen <email>
MN USA Mon 01/22/2007
Budapest to Prague
Jeff, I too was trying to find a cheap flight from Budapest to Prague. SmartWings did fly there but I just received an email from them this evening and they say they have discontinued service from Budapest to Prague the end of March. I have heard the train is not so great. Was originally going from Salzburg to Vienna, Vienna to Budapest by Hydrofoil, then Budapest to Prague, but the Czech airlines wants over $300 one way. Can't do that & don't want a crummy train ride for 7 hours. Understand it is not like the French trains. Am thinking of ditching Prague, but I don't want to. Had intended to fly from Prague to Amsterdam & back to the states. Any other suggestions for Budapest to Prague? Driving??
Kathy Wardlaw <email>
Memphis, TN USA Mon 01/22/2007
Spain
Traveling to Spain in May. It was suggested that we drive the coast from Barcelona to Valencia to Granada. Has anyone been down that coast? That route is not suggested by RS in his planning of Spain travel. Thanks
Georgie Farmer <email>
Flat rock, N.C. USA Mon 01/22/2007
Hotel Athens
Meg - Haven't been to Greece but booked our hotel through information found on Matt Barrett web site. Also could find out where RS stays during their guided tours to Athens. Good luck
USA Mon 01/22/2007
Going to England the first 2 weeks in April, which means we will be there at Easter. Anyone know how this might affect our travels?
USA Mon 01/22/2007
Fares/Tickets
Your best bet is to check sites like Expedia to see what flights are available and at what rates on which days.
Unfortunately flights aren't cheap - and are always more expensive between May and October. Part of it is that the US dollar is very weak, so airport taxes and fees in the Europe cost more and also because fuel is more expensive these days. In addition, the airport tax on all flights starting or ending in the UK is doubling, which means about $40 more per long haul flight. I believe that other countries - possibly France - have added a small envrionmental tax to tickets to and from their airports.
A quick search of Expedia does not show any direct flights between Boston and Prague, though it's harldy a complete list. If you do want to avoid a connection, your best bet might be to take the train down to Newark Airport, as there will be a much greater variety of flights there.
In fact, direct flights are often cheaper because they involve fewer airports, thus fewer airport taxes, and less consumption of fuel.
Kate
Scotland Mon 01/22/2007
Airfare/ticket purchase timing
Pat: we flew into Vienna and out of Frankfurt this past September. All of the published fares were $1100+ (and that was in/out of Frankfurt) Our travel agent got us tickets through a consolidator for $800 with tax/fees. There wasn't any additional charge for using the travel agent and we saved over $300! still a lot of money, but we were locked into specific dates for flights.
Krista
Minneapolis, MN USA Mon 01/22/2007
Hotel Eden Montmartre
Asking for input. Has anyone ever stayed at the Hotel Eden Montmartre? Any input would be great!!!
Sophia
Boston, MA USA Mon 01/22/2007
Pumping gas: The pumps don't prevent you from pumping gas into a diesel tank.
USA Mon 01/22/2007
Re: airport help
Sagales bus company has a deal with Ryanair to get people to and from Girona from Barcelona. The bus for the 6:50 am flight to Paris leaves Barcelona (estacio del nord) at 3:45 am! Single fare is 12 Euro. Besides easyjet, you might also want to consider vueling (http://vueling.com), a relatively new discount airline that I've flown, and enjoyed....and it flies out of Barcelona's regular airport.
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Mon 01/22/2007
Airfare/ticket purchase timing
Any thoughts of this situation? Each time we have been able to take a European trip, I have started to look for airfares about this time. They have not started to drop yet but Ouch--I've been very surprised at the prices now. We will be flying out of Boston to Paris again and fares posted now are very high. At some point you have to say enough and just buy them but I am hoping to see some kind of a drop. I have a fear of flying and want a non-stop. It is all I can do to get on the plane, let alone make additional stops along the way. I guess my point is, does there seem to be a time when the major carriers start to offer fares that are a little more within reason? As I look at the big carriers now, all are about $700.00 one way (each), not including taxes and fees. If rates do not go down I don't think we will go. Our last trip. 2005 cost $518.00 round trip for each of us. I know it will be more now but 4 times as much is too much. Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks
Pat
MA USA Mon 01/22/2007
Hotels in Brussels, Luxembourg, Colmar
Hi Brad, I have a couple of suggestions for you regarding hotels in the spots you asked about. We have stayed at all I mention and have been pleased. A word of warning however, especially Luxembourg. Even the most simple hotels in Lux City are very $$$$. We stayed once at the Hotel Carlton and found it to be a little less than we expected(Tub and sink in the roon, toilet down the hall). It has since been renovated and now seems to get good reviews. Very near everything--with a laundromat just up the street. (You can leave your clothes and pick them up later nicely folded--and reasonable).We also stayed at Hotel Le Chatelet, 2 Boulevard de la Petrusse. Very nice but more $$$ and a little farther away from everything. They also charge for parking which is hard to find in Lux City. In Colmar, we stayed twice at Le Rapp. I found it to be little better than adequate. Perhaps it has been updated but it is reasonable. I would ask to see the room to assess its comforts. Colmar is a jewel, no matter where you stay. Le Rapp is very central to all you would want. If I may suggest a restaurant, Chez Hansi at 23 rue des Marchands is fantastic. In Brussels, The Brussels Welcome Hotel at 5 Rue de Peuplier was a fun central spot and is reasonable as they come for the area just off the Grand Place. If you are in Brussels May 25-27, don't forget the Jazz Festival, it is amazing...and not just Jazz. Check the Brussels Tourist office web site. All three hotels have web sites with well illustrated rooms. Whether you arrive at your spots by car to train, all are accessible. Are you going to Bruge? It is a "don't miss" if possible and only a little over an hour by train from Brussels. Happy travels.
Pat
MA USA Mon 01/22/2007
Re: Air Fares
Try Kayak.com. It searches all different airfares & locations, & gives u the lowest prices.
Aquarius11
Philly, PA USA Mon 01/22/2007
airport help
looking at flying from barcelona to paris...and ryan air flies out of Girona.....very early in the morning....how would you get to this airport?
would it be better to do easy jet which is about 30 or so Euros more?
ip
USA Mon 01/22/2007
Cheap Air Fares
Try Priceline...I've had great luck with them so many times. They let you select multiple destinations now and show you the "Lowest Fare" prices you can choose before you put in a blind bid. Soooo much cheaper!
USA Mon 01/22/2007
Air Fares
Does anyone have any ideas about how to get the best air fare? I would like to fly from Dallas to Boston and then from a European City [maybe Brussels or Rotterdam] back to Dallas. The fares I'm finding are out of sight.
B <email>
Dallas, TX USA Mon 01/22/2007
At night in Sicily
I walked with my two daughters, aged 17 and 21 at the time, two summers ago every night, including once at 2 in the morning from the opera in Taormina. I agree that if you use the same precautions you would anywhere else you'll be fine- but you have to get over the "being nice" and very forcefully make it clear that you don't want to be bothered.
Karen
USA Mon 01/22/2007
pumping Gas
As I recall the the gas pump will not fit in desiel tank you werent bring a funnel were you ?
USA Mon 01/22/2007
Sicily B&B
In addition to my earlier post, I stayed at a nice B&B in Palermo: Giorgio's House B&B. Giorgio is a very nice youngish man who speaks fluent English and will meet you at the train station after you fly into Palermo (you take the train from the airport). I stayed in a single room and paid about 25 Eu/night. For breakfast Giorgio brought in fresh goodies that are Sicilian specialties. The B&B is walking distance from the city center, the cathedral, the castle, the harbor, etc. I think two young women or anyone else would like staying at Giorgio's. Contact him at: info@giorgioshouse.com.
Swan
USA Mon 01/22/2007
Young Women in Sicily
I was in Sicily Fall 2005, several days on my own in Palermo and later with a Rick Steves tour. It seemed no more dangerous than other parts of Italy. I'm 40 yrs older than you, so the attention from men was different for me than it would be for you. Use common sense in dress and behavior. If you go out at night, play it safe (go in a group, avoid dark alleys, stay sober, etc.) If you have traveled in Europe before, you have experienced male attention that is different from what you are used to at home. Don't feel that you always have to be "nice." Sicily is beautiful and an interesting place to visit for all kinds of reasons. Public transportation is good. I'm sure it is very hot in summer; I was there late Sept, early Oct. The weather and temperature were perfect. If you like the beach, go to Cefalu on the north coast. There is a beautiful beach walking distance from the town center.
Swan
USA Mon 01/22/2007
Sicily
Hello, Has anyone here traveled to Sicily? What were your experiences both positive and negative. Would it be safe for 2 women in there 20's to travel there?
Any advice would be great!
<email>
USA Sun 01/21/2007
Gas
We have almost always pumped our own gas in European countries. Sometimes it's a little difficult to identify diesel vs gasoline if you don't speak the language.
Sandy
USA Sun 01/21/2007
Italy, Switzerland & France
Our daughter will finish her student teaching in Padova the end of March. My husband and I will join her for 2 wks. We plan on taking the train to Florence 4-4,leaving on the 6th or 7th for Cinqueterre for 3 nights. Daughter wants to train to Switzerland and we fly out of Paris 4-16. Any suggestions on reasonably priced B&Bs, and itinary,this is our 1st time in Europe any help is appreciate