Graffiti Wall: Travelers' Helpline

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Travelers' Helpline: February 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.

Dordogne without a car
My husband and I have two weeks to spend in France before moving on to the next leg of our European trip (we will be in Frankfurt before and after). Had thought we would like to see something of the Dordogne area BUT we won't have a car as we have decided the driving on the opposite side of the road (for us) might make the travel more stressful than relaxing. So we will be relying on public transport. Anyone have any idea of how/if we could do this? We have been to Paris before and thought we would like to see a contrasting part of France this time.
Di
Northland, New Zealand Wed 02/28/2007

Loire Valley
It is the L-o-i-r-e Valley not the "Lorie" Valley.
USA Wed 02/28/2007

HOUSING FOR A FAMILY OF FOUR
Cheri: My wife and I stay in hostels. I was doubtful until I tried one the first time.

Since then we have stayed in 15 of them all over Europe and the Orient.

You can usually find a room for 4 at $30 to $50 with a breakfast.
USA Wed 02/28/2007

DO HOSTELS PROVIDE PILLOWS
Doug : Some hostels provide pillows and others will not. I always carry mine with my own pillow case.

To avoid using all that luggage space for a pillow, some travelers use their jacket or some other clothing or towels as a substitute.

USA Wed 02/28/2007

Swiss Rail Passes
Need an expert on Swiss Rail passes. We will be staying in a friend's house in Zug -- about half way between Zurich and Luzern for six days. Probably will spend two days each in Zurich and Luzern. Is there a pass that would be useful?
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Wed 02/28/2007

DO I NEED INTERNATIONAL DRIVERS PERMIT
Linda: You don’t need the International Drivers Permit to rent a car. You will need your state driver’s LICENSE.
USA Wed 02/28/2007

STAYING IN ZURICH
Ann: there is not much to see in Zurich. I would choose a town nearby and stay there. Zurich hotel rooms are more expensive than those in small nearby towns.
USA Wed 02/28/2007

Re: Western Europe question
We love Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. It's a town surrounded by the Alps. The weather in June will probably be gorgeous. You can go to the Zugspitze there (the highest point in Germany). We also love Munich. Great city. Lots to do. We're going in August/September of this year and can't wait.
Amy
Clarksville, TN USA Wed 02/28/2007

Greek Ferries
We're thinking of taking an overnight ferry from the Greek Island of Samos to Athens to catch our plane in May. Are these ferries reliably on schedule? We should have 4 hours between the ferry and the plane according to the schedule. Can we count on the ferry being on time? Thanks, Clark
Clark
San Bernardino, CA USA Wed 02/28/2007

Left-luggage Facilities at Paris Train Stations
Now I need to correct myself. Gare de l'Est DOES have left-luggage facilities. It's Gare de Bercy along with Gare St-Lazare that do not.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 02/28/2007

Italian trains
Just back from a brief break in Italy. We did not make our train reservations in advance -- we used the automated ticket machines and had great success. Trains were full, but we were able to get tickets for the times we wanted with no hassles, and only once (Pisa to Florence in the evening) were we even moderately late (10 minutes.) I wish Amtrak had that kind of service outside the Northeast.
Tom
St. Louis, MO USA Wed 02/28/2007

Re: Luggage Storage at Gare d'Austerlitz
Only Gare de l'Est and Gare St-Lazare have no left-luggage facilities. The other main Paris train stations, including Gare d'Austerlitz, have either lockers or left-luggage offices--or both. See the official Paris Toruist Board site, www.parisinfo.com, for a breakdown on what the facilities are at each station.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 02/28/2007

Trenitalia
I, too, had multiple problems with Trenitalia. However, when I emailed them, they called me back (within a few days)multiple times. They were always very apologetic about the problems they frequently have with their system. After 6 calls, they were still unable to resolve the fact that their system wouldn't allow me to purchase tickets online. I ran out of time, and ended up buying my tickets at a machine in Italy without a bit of trouble. According to the Italians who called me, there are a lot of problems with their system. But they were very, very nice when they tried to help me! (One guy told me all about his American friend...all in all a fun cultural exchange, even if I didn't get my tickets in advance! ;-)
Terry
Bend, OR USA Wed 02/28/2007

Netherlands Itinerary
We will be in the Netherlands July 2007. We fly into Brussels July 21 and out of Amsterdam July 26. I have heard that Bruge is a must. Any suggestions on where to go and how long to stay each place?
Marilyn McGuire <email>
Lake Forest Park, WA USA Wed 02/28/2007

Re: International Driver License
First, it is an international driver PERMIT, not a license. An IDP is simply a translation of the pertinent information on your driver license into several languages.

It technically is required in some countries, recommended in others, and not an isuue in English-speaking countries (like Great Britain and Ireland). However, even in those countries where it is officially required, the rental agency probably won't even ask if you have one. The agency's primary concern is with your regular license.

Still, I think it's a good idea to have one, in case you're in an accident or are stopped by the police. The Auto Europe site (www.autoeurope.com) will tell you what is or is not required in each European country in terms of the IDP, insurance, etc.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Wed 02/28/2007

Trenitalia - Help!
Can you call Trenitalia and explain?

39 089 20 21

I will be reserving some tickets very soon and I have heard others have had some difficulty with Trenitalia's website.
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Wed 02/28/2007

York Youth Hostel
Has anyone stayed here??? Do you recommend for middle-aged couple?
Pam <email>
McPherson, KS USA Wed 02/28/2007

Switzerland
We have a 2 day/3 night stopover in Zurich. Should we stay there or go somewhere else? And do you know any "economical" places to stay?
Ann <email>
Evergreen, CO USA Wed 02/28/2007

Accommodation in Aberdeen, Scotland
Does anyone know nice places to stay in Aberdeen, Scotland for two adults and two well-behaved children to stay in the early summer? My biggest requirement is cleanliness. It doesn't have to be fancy, just clean. B&B's, an apartment to rent for six weeks, or a hotel or motel would all be fine. Thank you for any knowledge you may have.
Jill & Navin <email>
Clive, Iowa USA Wed 02/28/2007

Do I need international driver's license to rent a car in Europe?
Do I need to get international driver's license to rent a car in Europe or U.S. driver's license is good enough? What else needed to rent a car and what things need to be cautions about when I rent a car in Europe?
Linda
WA USA Wed 02/28/2007

June destinations in western europe?
I have a break for a few months beginning June 2007

Where to go ?..., for decent weather (camping / biking)/ flowers ... places of choice = Austria, Hungary, Bavaria regions of Germany, Sw, and / or Netherlands

Have done most of these in the winter, but missed the flowers and the like.

I assume it is best to be outta europe by August.
Janb <email>
Washougal, WA USA Wed 02/28/2007

Trenitalia - Help!
Sorry in advance for the length of this, but I need your help! :-)

I went to the Trenitalia site today to book tickets on the overnight train from Milan to Paris. I went through the transaction, but at the end got an error message that essentially said "we don't know what happened to the transaction, check your email and the customer area, and if there's nothing there and no charge to your card, it didn't work" (I'm paraphrasing, but that's the basic message).

So I gave it some time to go to my email...didn't get anything...checked the customer area...didn't see anything...checked my credit card online...nothing there...gave it some more time and kept checking my email and the customer area...nothing...so I figured okay, the transaction just didn't go through.

So I went back through the process, ordered tickets on the site, and this time got a page with a ticket dossier number! Yay!

Then I checked the customer area. And I have TWO dossier numbers. Then I checked my email, and I got TWO confirmation emails, each with a different dossier number and a different reservation number and different reserved places.

So uh oh -- I think both transactions went through.

I went to the Trenitalia site to request a refund for one of the dossier numbers, but the site will only accept a 5 digit PNR code, and my dossier numbers are 6 digits (and my reservation numbers are 12 digits each).

Any thoughts/experience? Their "write to Trenitalia" link on their website says they'll respond within 30 days (!), which seems a long time but is still before our trip in May.

If you're still reading this, thanks. :-)
Michelle <email>
Denver, CO USA Wed 02/28/2007

Layovers Chicago O'Hare
I fly through Chicago O'Hare every year. I wouldn't be comfortable with a 1 1/2 layover for an international flight. However, if it's on your flight TO Manchester, you probably WON'T be flying out of the international terminal. If you don't have to change terminals, 1 1/2 hour is doable. If you're flying home, 1 1/2 hours is not enough time to go through customs, change terminals and go through security.

One positive note: last summer I missed my United connection in Los Angeles for Guatemala City. Because the delay was not weather-related, United put me up in a hotel and I got to see some California scenery (Redondo Beach) that I would otherwise never have seen.
Karen <email>
MN USA Wed 02/28/2007

download-pokemon-game
Thanks so very much for taking your time to create this very useful and informative site. I have learned a lot from your site. Thanks!!
Hillari <email>
Arabia, Delaware Zealand Wed 02/28/2007

Re; Munich Hotel
Stayed at the Hotel Ludwig opposite the train station. Great location, staff wonderful, rooms pretty good. Read reviews on tripadvisor.com
Jeff
NJ USA Wed 02/28/2007

Place to stay in Portofino
I'm looking for a place to stay in Portofino. Hotel, B&B, whatever. Now here's the kicker, I don't want to spend a lot of money. Is there a place like this in Portofino? Every place I've looked at seems to be more than $300/ night.
Ann <email>
WI USA Wed 02/28/2007

Pompeii day/tours
Sorry - should have clarified - we will be based out of Rome. We can't seem to fit in enough time to do justice to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast so We will need to start South on our next visit but I just can't return without at least seeing Pompeii.
cr
USA Wed 02/28/2007

Pompeii day trips.
You did not say where you are based out of. If you are in Sorrento or Naples it is so simple to train it there then use an audio tour rental. Also Rick Steves lists a local guide you can use if that is more to your liking.Ck his guidebook he has a good section on Pompeii.
JS
USA Wed 02/28/2007

Day trip to Pompei
We booked a great trip through a local travel agency in Sorrento. Tried to figure out the train/bus deal, but opted for the bus tour instead.

It was fantastic. Our guide was wonderful...lots and lots of interesting info. The bus ride was easy. Dropped us off right a the entry, waited for us after, took us to Mt Vesuvio after and we walked to the top.

Ride back to Sorrento was in comfort as the guide continued to give us the history of Rome/Pomepei, etc.

We paid about $100 for both of us in 2005.

Check with any agency in Rome etc. They are all over the place in towns in Italy, drop in, ask about a guided bus tour and go for it!
USA Wed 02/28/2007

layover in Chicago
My brother had a similiar situation in Nov 2006. SFO-CHICAGO-Manchester. It was very tight and he had 1.5 hrs too. he landed in Chicago had to run to the other terminal at O Hare go thru all the security checks and hope that his luggage made it on board to Manchester. It was very tight and not relaxed but it did work.good luck.
JS
USA Wed 02/28/2007

Place to stay in Munich
Need place to stay in Munich in April when BAUMA Trade show is on. Can anyone provide a recommendation?

Margo
Margo <email>
Fountain Valley, CA USA Wed 02/28/2007

Pompeii Day Trips
Does anyone have any suggestions on day trips/tours to Pompeii other than taking the trains independently? I looked at Context-Rome but 280 euros per person seems like a lot for one day.
CR
USA Wed 02/28/2007

England - Countryside Rocks Alliance Concert
Hello, We are planning our first trip to the UK in May and recently discovered the Countryside Rocks Alliance. There is a concert on May 19th at Highclere Castle in Newbury, Berkshire (about 75 minutes outside of London) that features Bryan Ferry, Steve Winwood, Kenney Jones and the Jones Gang, Mike d’Abo, Eric Clapton, Jon Anderson, and Gary Brooker. I’m writing to inquire if anyone has any information regarding the concert. The website states that the gates open at 4, but I can't find a more detailed schedule to determine when it might end. I’ve found public transportation out there, but not knowing when the concert will end has left me trying to decide on whether to plan a return journey to London that night or get a room and return to London the next morning. Any help regarding time lines and information about the actual concert would be much appreciated. Thank you, Carrie
Carrie <email>
Bloomington, IN USA Wed 02/28/2007

layover in Chicago
We had a two hour layover in Chicago on the way home from London Oct of 06, and it wasn't long enough to get thru customs and immigration.... We missed the last flight of the day to Portland We were on American Airlines, but it wouldn't have mattered because there were HUGE lines at the above mentioned places. We were lucky enough to get a flight about 90 minutes later on a partner airline. The lady at the ticket counter explained that Chicago is the busiest airport in the US. So we will try to avoid Chicago on future trips...or...will allow 3 plus hours for a plane change. In your case, you will be going the other way....however if there is an issue with weather (it was high winds the day we were there) it really compounds the problems at a busy airport...there again, weather can affect any airport! Good luck!
Dan
Wa USA Tue 02/27/2007

1.5 hour layover for international flight?
I'm flying to Manchester in September with flexible dates and have been looking out for the cheapest fair. BMI/United offers a good one but the layover in Chicago is only an hour and a half.... Is this realistic? I've never flown BMI or United before and am unsure as to their policies and what would happen if my connecting flights missed. Thanks for your help!
Jennifer
OR USA Tue 02/27/2007

Re: Pillows in hostels
Hostels provide pillows but they can be quite horrible. If you are going to one location for a short while, bring your own, I do. If not then ask for an extra pillow and pray for the best. Besides the lumpiness, most people I stay in hostels with tend to be a bit dodgy when it comes to hygeine... wouldn't want their problems on my pillow. Cheers!
Sandra
USA Tue 02/27/2007

Re:Traveling with baby
I once heard a flight attendant say it very clearly. "Would you take your baby in a car without a restraint?" I always opt for safety when it comes to children.
USA Tue 02/27/2007

Italy in November
I've been to Italy twice, both times in November, and I can't imagine going at any other time of year. No lines and the weather is warm. Last November I started in Venice and worked my way south ending in Rome in mid-month. I can't imagine why anyone would say to stay away from Rome during that time. The weather was extremely pleasant in the 60's.I wasn't in Sorrento but went to Naples and everyone was in shirtsleeves. I had the same experience 3 years ago. Look at the average temps for Italy and remember that any given month is an average of the whole month. So late October/early November is going to be quite a bit warmer than late November. Anyway, have a great time!
Marhanal
USA Tue 02/27/2007

French wine country for Elaine
Every region in France has wine, but I suggest Burgundy for the prominence of the wine scene, the proximity to Paris, and the other attractions of the region. That said, if you are really dying to go someplace else, such as a quick tour of Loire chateaux, go find wine there.

As Rick details in his books, Beaune makes a great base to explore Burgundy, but there are other wonderful towns and sites, including Vezeley and the Abbey at Fontenay. Dijon is interesting but really too big to enjoy on a quick visit in my view.

It's easy to get to Beaune from Paris by rail, but if you want to explore the countryside you'll need wheels (cycling is great there, btw). Whether you drive from Paris or pick up a car in Beaune is up to you.

Burgundies are serious wines, which just means there is likely to be something for every level of interest.

Get a few good guidebooks and have a great trip!
Adam
Boston, USA Tue 02/27/2007

Italy in November
We spent 10 days in late November, 2005, in Rome/Sorrento. Sorrento was pretty quiet, but not completely closed down - more real Italian. Pompeii area is always open. Travel books say to avoid Rome in November, but we had decent, if not warm weather. Sorrento was cool to the Italians, snow on the ridges and mountaintop, but not terribly cold for us. To all appearances it seemed as if it's usually a little warmer than it was those few days(more tropical plants, etc.). We had a beautiful clear day for our bus trip along the Amalfi Coast. In winter you just never know - we always have alternate "indoor" activities planned or raincoats to walk in the rain. Enjoy.
Karen <email>
USA Tue 02/27/2007

Venice Accomadations
We are travelling to Italy/Greece in late april. We have all of our lodgings booked except for Venice. I've tried to contact Foresteria Valdese a couple times but have heard nothing in return. Are there any other inexpensive options for Venice for a family?
Rachel <email>
MT USA Tue 02/27/2007

Flying with a young child
If you haven't gotten tickets, you need to do that ASAP. Tickets go quickly, and many airlines allow people to select seats well in advance, so you could risk having your family separate. I would buy the tickets on the phone so that you can specify that you will be flying with a young child - airlines will often seat families in the bulkhead row so they can have a bassinet. However space is limited, so if you book too late, you may not get a space. Also check with the airline, because airlines may have different age limits as to when you must purchase a seat.

I would book the extra seat. Whilst it's fine to have a child in your lap to calm them or to feed them, it is FAR safer for a child to be belted into an approved car seat. In the (very rare) event of a crash, unrestrained infants have a high rate of injury and death.

That said, it's really up to you. Remember that airline seats are not large/wide, and a squirming child can be very disruptive to someone next to you or in front of you if the child kicks the seat, especially on an overnight flight. And you will probably want to avoid a window seat if there are three seats and/or avoid center seats in the wide body planes in order to avoid disturbing someone else if the child has to be taken to the loo.

Grumpy as I can be, I find that most young children do just fine on a plane. You probably want to bring them something to suck on for takeoff/landing because little ears don't always do so well with pressure changes. And if it's a night flight, time your day so that the child will be sleeping on the flight and avoid sugary/processed/caffieney foods & liquids.

Also be sure to arrive at the aiport WELL ahead of time, so that you have extra time to get baby things through security and so that you have the best chance of getting the seats you want. If the airline has on-line check in, use it and check as soon as you can because airlines often release all their remaining seats at this point, so the bulkhead seats could be gone if you check in at the airport.

But most importantly, have fun! Kate
Scotland Tue 02/27/2007

Wine country in France
Planning a trip to France for daughters 30th Birthday. Our group is Flying into Paris and only have 6 days. Would like to visit wineries. Any suggestions for the best area to visit, stay and mode of transportation.
Elaine <email>
Seattle, Wa USA Tue 02/27/2007

ASAP Tickets
Has anyone used ASAP tickets? Their fares are so cheap that I'm a little concerned.
Linda
OR USA Tue 02/27/2007

Loire Valley
agree that a car is best to get to various chateaux---we picked ours up in Versailles and returned it there Amboise makes a nice base--we stayed in a great B&B in 04 in village just across the river
Cary <email>
Hayden, ID USA Tue 02/27/2007

Cinque Terre or Amalfi
Probably depends when you are going. We were there in July and all I saw in Cinque Terre were Americans holding Rick Steve's book!!!! I really enjoyed Amalfi a lot more, it just seemed more Italian. I'm afraid all of Rick's publicity is affecting the Cinque Terre area.
Pam <email>
McPherson, KS USA Tue 02/27/2007

atm/ taxi
pay in euros as hungary now accepts it.
jay
USA Tue 02/27/2007

reserve lodging
the sooner you reserve the better. try emailing the places you want to stay at.they will let you know if you can book right away. and you will get the best rooms first.
ed
USA Tue 02/27/2007

paris gare austerlitz
while in paris i found that the train stations did not have lockers at all. your best bet is the bus terminal, or a hotel that might let you use a locker. good luck youll need it.
ed
ham, USA Tue 02/27/2007

hostels
they provide at least one pillow.
sam
tor, USA Tue 02/27/2007

RE: traveling with an infant
flyingwithkids.com is a great resource for, well, what you'd expect from a site called that! Do NOT assume there will be an open seat. Frankly, there won't be. But don't let that stop you. Bring your Sit N Stroll with you, bring it all the way to the gate, and then be very polite at the desk. But chances are that there will not be an extra seat, and that's fine. We took a just-barely-one-year-old on our laps to London, and found that things were almost easier without the seat, since he would have been in and out of it anyway (nursing up and down, and preferring human contact to the seat anyway). If you're using an European airline, the baby will be in a belly-belt type thing. On US based airlines, no such luck. If the safety issue is a concern, just buy the seat for the baby! Enjoy your trip!
Kelly
St. Louis, MO USA Tue 02/27/2007

No Souvenirs Malpensa International Airport
Why no Italian-specific souvenirs in Milan's Malpensa International Airport? Wanted to buy an Italian flag during a layover and was told that the only souvenirs they have are Ferrari and soccer.
Beth R.
Brooklyn, NY USA Tue 02/27/2007

Do hostels provide pillows?
Question: Do hostels normally provide pillows? Or do we really have to carry pillows with us all over Europe? That's a lot of bag space, so I hope it won't be necessary. We're leaving on Saturday. Anyone know?
Doug
Seattle, WA USA Tue 02/27/2007

Family of 4
Rick's Rome book (and the Italy book) have plenty of suggestions for accommodations at a range of prices. I'm unsure what you consider affordable, so am unable to respond to that question. Consider the cost of trains in your decision of whether to do day trips or stay overnight at various locations--also consider the time you will spend geting to each spot versus staying overnight in an area. Personally, I like doing Pompeii as a day trip from Rome because I like being based in Rome, but don't like doing Florence as a day trip from Rome.
JSC
Pittsburgh, PA USA Tue 02/27/2007

Paris Museum Pass
It comes in three different increments: 2 day E30, 4 day E45 and 6 day E60 (see page 38 of Rick Steves Paris guide book) or www.parismuseumpass.fr
Erika
WA USA Tue 02/27/2007

train travel- Paris departure
our flight is schduled at this point to arrive in paris CDG at 13:10. How much time should we allow before we book a train out of paris to Nice? I was thinking to add some time in case the flight is late ect... I was also looking at taking the train directe from CDG to reduce travel time.
bluedenim <email>
vancouver, bc canada Tue 02/27/2007

Family of 4
My family of 4 will be traveling in Italy in June 2007. It is difficult to find lodging for 4 people that is affordable. Any tips? Would it be beneficial to stay in Rome for a week and do day trips to Pompeii and other places south instead of staying in cities of interest 1 or 2 nights each?
Cheri <email>
Marietta, GA USA Tue 02/27/2007

Paris Gare Austerlitz Luggage Storage?
I'm planning a trip to Paris with my family. Could someone tell me whether Gare Austerlitz has facilities for luggage storage? I've heard that the station has facilities but I'm concerned that security concerns or recent renovations may have changed the situation.
Richard DeWolfe <email>
Halifax, NS Canada Tue 02/27/2007

Paris Museum Pass
On the Paris Museum Pass web site it says they have a two day pass. However, on most other web sites there isn't a two day pass. Has anyone had recent experience with the pass. Thanks.
USA Tue 02/27/2007

Tipping shuttle driver
We are being met a shuttle service hired by our hotel to pick us up at CDG. How much tip do you given the driver? Thanks.
USA Tue 02/27/2007

taking baby
Take the chance there will be open seat. Also try to get bulkhead for more room for baby. Think what you can do with the extra $600+ in Rome
Erica
ca USA Tue 02/27/2007

hotel in paris
Can anyone recommend a good hotel in Paris for a weekend in May. I am traveling with my family of 5 and would like something preferably in the Rue Cler or Ecole Militaire Metro stop area. Any good suggestions, especially for a family of 5?
Nancy
Brentwood, Tenn. USA Tue 02/27/2007

Travelling to Rome with infants
My husband and daughter (who will be 11 months) and I are travelling to Rome for 10 days (Late April-Early May). Any suggestions or advice on how to travel with kids and enjoy our trip. Our daugther so far is a great traveller for long car rides but not sure how she will fare overseas? Also, just wondering if we should purchase a seat on the plane for her or take our chances that there will be an empty one.
Teresa <email>
Yarmouth, NS Canada Tue 02/27/2007

Italian honeymoon in November
My fiancé and I are planning our honeymoon for late October/early November this year. We enjoy sightseeing and hiking much more than sitting on a beach. Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast are our top choices but we are potentially worried about weather as well as closed businesses at this time of year.

Any thoughts or experiences regarding the tricky travel month of November?
Amy Stewart
Chicago, IL USA Tue 02/27/2007

Re: Day Trip from Paris to Normandy
By train you CANNOT get to Bayeux early enough for Normandy beach tours that depart in the morning. If you don't have time to spend the night in Bayeux before taking an all-day tour, your only option would be Overlord's half-day afternoon tour. See the train timetables at www.bahn.de.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Tue 02/27/2007

Day trip from Paris to Normandy beach tour in Bayeaux
I will be staying in Paris and am thinking of taking the train to Bayeaux so we can take a full day tour of Normandy beaches through Overlord Tours. Has anyone tried to do this and know whether it is doable? Not sure what the earliest train is to Bayeaux to know if we can get there by 8:30 AM reasonably. Please advise.
Theresa Gregorio-Torres <email>
Missouri City, TX USA Mon 02/26/2007

CT or Amalfi coast for Chris
Lucky you to have choice. I love both areas and consider Pompeii part of an Amalfi area visit. Perhaps you could make your decision on how many days you have avail. With 2-3 days do CT with 4 or more days do Sorrento as base, day trips to Pompeii, Capri ea. 1-2 day for Positano, Amalfi, Ravello all on bus route and ferry back to Sorrento from Positano. Do not rush Amalfi coast it is wonderful to savor.
JS
USA Mon 02/26/2007

Re: Husky Sled Rides
If you and your daughter are of average size, you will very likely be able to ride in the same sled.
Kim
USA Mon 02/26/2007

Re:Camera Tripods
I suggest you speak to the Airline because there is no way every individual item can be listed in the rules.
USA Mon 02/26/2007

Cinque Terre or Amalfi
I think it depends on your interests. We went to Cinque Terre to rest and hike - wonderful place to do both (summer). We went to Sorrento and saw Pompeii and Amalfi coast off season - Pompeii was great (no crowds) and so was the bus trip along Amalfi. I would not go to Amalfi during the summer, but it is worth seeing. Although I enjoyed both, I'll go back to Cinque Terre long before I'd go back to Amalfi.
Karen
USA Mon 02/26/2007

RE: The Netherlands
Take a day to visit Utrecht, the most underrated city in the Netherlands, in my opinion. Lovely two-level canals through the old part of the city (nicer than Amsterdam's in my opinion), great shops and restaurants, and lots of history. About 40 minutes southeast of Amsterdam by train. Check out their big open market, Wednesdays and Saturdays (Saturday's is the best) right outside the train station in the Vredenburg section, at the head of the lovely old part of the city. Check the massive licorice stand near the market entrance....the lady helping her Dutch husband run it...is from Wisconsin!
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 02/26/2007

The Netherlands
I don't know how this got confused but I'll be in the Netherlands for 5 days, not Amsterdam. I'd like input on other favorite places to visit. What are some of your favorite town and sights? Thanks!
Marhanal
NC USA Mon 02/26/2007

Outline for Blue de Nimes
Your itinerary sounds brilliant except for the long train ride. Save yourself a day and either (1) see Paris at the beginning and fly home from Barcelona, or (2) fly into Nice and start there, ending in Paris. (Or start in Barcelona and do your plan in reverse.) This will save you time and money.

Have fun!
Adam
Boston, USA Mon 02/26/2007

Camera Tripods
Has anyone had issues with taking camera tripods in their carry-on? I will be going to Italy in May and looked in the TSA and Airline sites with no reference. Can I carry one on the plane or will I need to check a bag?
Jesse
STL, MO USA Mon 02/26/2007

outline
Weighed lots of things and this what we have decided for our trip....any other thoughts or suggestioned arrive Paris. Same evening take the train to Nice. Nice 3 nights -rent a car and do two nights in Arles and then one night in Montpellier. Allowing us to see Aixes, the coast, Nimes and Avignon. Then take the train from Montpellier to Barcelona and then on to Sitges. Going to base ourselves out of sitges for 7 nights Then train from Barcelona back to Paris and do 7 nights in Paris. we are getting a rail pass so we will have one more day of travel, so I am thinking a day trip to either brussells, lilles, dijon, reims or bordeax thoughts
bluedenim <email>
vancouver, bc canada Mon 02/26/2007

RE: train travel - addendum
You take your bags on with you. There are small overhead racks at your seat, and larger luggage storage areas at the end of the car.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 02/26/2007

RE: train travel
Mariann....the seat numbers it asks for are only if you are booking tickets later than, say, some friends, and want to sit close to them. Mandatory reservations will allow you to just click on the seats you want and assign them to you and anyone else you're ordering for at the time to keep you close together. It will then let you know which car and seat numbers the reservations apply to
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 02/26/2007

Linda in Seattle re the Loire
We drive to the Loire valley every year from Paris. It's an easy drive and yes, a car is best in order to really tour all the points of interest. (Always arrange for your rent-a-car from the U.S. and ALWAYS pay for the CDW.) It's a pleasant mornings drive to the Loire from Paris, stopping to view this and that. We always rent a car outside of Paris (frequently at the airport). Be aware however, that renting a car or returning it at the airport may include an airport tax (which can be pricy). The airport tax, fyi, is not exclusive to Europe - very popular in the U.S. and especially Hawaii. Still, saves alot of hassle as you avoid driving in the city proper (which I've done and certainly don't recommend for the faint of heart).
Marie
San Diego, CA USA Mon 02/26/2007

hotels-paris.fr
I came across this website and it seems to offer really good deals. Has anyone booked a hotel through this company? If so, are they as good as the appear?
USA Mon 02/26/2007

Husky drawn sleigh ride$$$$?
Sorry, it is on top of the Jungfrau that I am interested in. In my excitement after reading the Berner Oberland post below about the availability of husky drawn sleigh rides, I left out the important WHERE. In addition to the "driver," can 2 or more people ride together? Thanks again.
BG
San Francisco, CA USA Mon 02/26/2007

Hair Flat Irons
Has anyone ever used cordless flat irons while traveling? If so, do you recommend buying one?
Patti <email>
SF, CA USA Mon 02/26/2007

Train Travel
Two questions regarding train travel.

First, when I tried to book online it says reservations mandatory and asked for the coach and seat numbers we want but I can't find that info on the site.

Second, can you check your luggage to your destination or do you keep it with you?

We will be taking the night train from Bari to Venice and then from Venice to Paris. We want to book the couchette compartment.
Mariann
USA Mon 02/26/2007

CT or Amalfi?
If you had to choose would it be the Cinque Terre or Pompeii, Sorrento and Amalfi?? I am really struggling with this and running out of time to spend.
Chris
TX USA Mon 02/26/2007

Paris to Lorie Valley
We are going Lorie Valley from Paris at the beginning of May. Could anyone give me any suggestions wheter we need a car in Lorie Valley for 2-3 days. If we do would it be a good idea to rent a car in Paris and drive to Lorie Valley or take the bus or train to Lorie Valley then rent a car from there? We will be staying at the 2nd district in Paris. Where would be the nearest location to pick up the rental car around that area. If we take the train or the bus to Lorie Valley where would be the best place to pick it up.

Thanks for your comment!
Linda
Seattle, WA USA Mon 02/26/2007

paris shuttle
Has anyone ever heard of EK shuttle?
USA Mon 02/26/2007

Marhanal - Amsterdam
I disagree with spending 5 days in Amsterdam. Of the many places I have visited throughout Europe Amsterdam was my least favorite. I did enjoy the side trips outside of Amsterdam to Delft, Edam, etc.

I am 30 yo and heard wonderful things about the City from friends. I feel like if you are going to spend your time in a big city, do it where people are friendly, food is not overpriced, and where there is a lot more to experience cultrually then Amsterdam. I am from SF and to me, Amsterdam felt like Haight St or Telegraph in Berkeley. If you like such a scene, then perhaps 5 days in Amsterdam is right for you. But for me, it was a waste of time and I could not wait to LEAVE! Clearly, I did not find it "charming".
Cali
SF, USA Mon 02/26/2007

European Hair dryer
I want to second the comments about the hair dryers. I blew my dual voltage one out the first time I tried to use it in France last year and so I went to Monoprix (like Target) and picked one up for like E10 or E12. They aren't very expensive and the one I got is travel sized, so it didn't even take up very much room in my backpack. Don't worry about trying to find one before you leave, I'm sure if you're starting in a big city you'll be able to find one very easily. (I got mine in Dinan, France, so even small towns have them!).
USA Mon 02/26/2007

Prague
I visited Prague about 6 years ago on my first trip to Europe. I was in awe of a cathedral still standing from 1200. It's a beautiful city and well worth the trip. Be sure you see the Jewish cemetary in the middle of the city and the Castle/cathedral at the top of the hill.
USA Mon 02/26/2007

Prague
Prague

...Is gorgeous. Take the 4 hour walking tour if you get a chance. My guide was a Grad. Student- she was the best- she knew her stuff- and made all the history really intereseting. I thought I would get bored- and the tour would be too long- but it wasn't. So worth it. Some of the bulidings had glass murals on the outside. Prague is known as the Golden City- it's also one of the only cities that was not bombed b/c Hitler thought it was too pretty. I'd go back in a heart beat!
Gina
Corpus Christi, Texas USA Mon 02/26/2007

How soon to reserve
If you want a particular place, do it as soon as possible. I tried to get one in Venice for late Sept. 2 weeks ago and they were already booked. If your plans change you can cancel.
rc
CO USA Mon 02/26/2007

to Marchanal-Amsterdam 5 days
5 days is not along time in wonderful picturesque Amsterdam. See as much as poss and if you have time still train to a smaller village like Edam,or with a half day and short train ride try Haarlem bigger but great cathedral.
JS
USA Mon 02/26/2007

Is Prague Worth it?
Our family of 4 were in Germany, Austria & Prague this past summer. My kids liked Prague the best of the cities we visited. It was crowded when we visited at the height of summer - it is a top destination in Europe right now. It was very cosmopolitan, very urban but with the most beautiful architecture.
Karen
Atlanta, USA Mon 02/26/2007

Bike tour in Ireland
Brooke - we have not biked in Ireland but did rent bikes in SW England with the same narrow roads we saw on our trip to Ireland. We loved it and I'd have no problem thinking about renting bikes in Ireland. We have found that biking in Europe is a great way to see a small area and I assume that you are thinking of one of the group things when you say bike "tour". My teens definitely liked doing physical things (biking, hiking, canoeing, swimming) along with the city sights. And we have rented bikes in several differnt countries and enjoyed taking ourselves out for the day, just not on a bike tour per se. The only downside to a tour of any kind with teens is the necessity of having to stay on a schedule. Again, I'm making assumptions here, but I don't think my kids would want to get up every single day for say a week in order to get in the necessary mileage. One day yes, one week no. We tend to like to mix things up - getting up very early when needed (i.e. to see the Vatican) and sleeping in the next day or letting the kids skip breakfast if they want and getting a later start.
Karen
USA Mon 02/26/2007

RE: Oporto - Madrid by Train
Michele...you'll have to use the Portuguese railway website to get trains from Oporto to Lisbon...then you can use the Spanish rail network for Lisbon to Madrid. Unfortunately, there's only one direct train per day from Lisbon to Madrid...it's an overnight "Trenhotel" train that leaves Lisbon shortly after 10 pm. The other involves a 4-hour stopover along the way from about 12:30 to 4:30 am....not sounding too good. If you want to avoid that, try flying from Oporto to Madrid aboard Ryanair (some good deals on offer...www.ryanair.com), or fly Lisbon to Madrid with vueling, a Spanish discount carrier (www.vueling.com). You can also use intercity buses, which are fast and comfortable. There are two a day, 10 hours each from Oporto...one overnight and one leaving at 10 am and getting in at 8 pm. Check http://www2.alsa.es/portal/index.asp?lang=en and click on "Routes and times"..that'll give prices as well. For my money, though (considering how precious our vacation time is), a discount airline flight might be the best way to go.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 02/26/2007

Mexico Guidebook
I love Rick's guidebooks when travelling to Europe. What guidebooks can you recommend for Mexico, specifically Mazatlan?
USA Mon 02/26/2007

RE: Flying Florence to Sicily
The best place to get a start on looking for discount airfares in Europe is http://whichbudget.com. You can also google the destination airport itself to find out which airlines fly in there. And don't "discount" the big carriers...if they're in competition with low-cost airlines, they offer bargains too.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 02/26/2007

Flying Florence to Palermo
If you go to Rick's Favorite Links (see above) and scroll all the way down to "skyscanner" you will eventually find that Meridian Air flies out of Florence to Palermo...Cost depends on which days you fly.
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Mon 02/26/2007

Flying Florence to Sicily
I am going to be in Florence in April and am searching for cheap flights to Palermo, Sicily. Does anybody know of an airline that I could use? It seems that ryan air does not fly out of Florence.
Anna <email>
Madison, WI USA Mon 02/26/2007

Hair dryers in Europe
Amy, i bought a hair dryer in Italy for about $12 and in Spain for about $15 - i didn't think that was too bad - I just asked the hotel desk clerk where to go and she directed me to an electronics/appliance store - it was easy and then you don't have to mess with converters and such, and you have one for your next trip.
Michele <email>
Las Vegas, NV USA Sun 02/25/2007

Port - Madrid by Train
does anyone have any information on the train schedules from Porto (or Oporto) Portugal to Madrid? i've been looking at the DB website with no luck and I've also tried Portugal's train website, again, with no luck. Any info is appreciated. Thanks!
Michele <email>
Las Vegas, NV USA Sun 02/25/2007

Italy Accomodations
I'm planning a trip to Italy in September. I'll just have graduated college, and will be in Europe on a small budget. However, I'd like to spend most of my time in one central location I can call home, and also have easy access to Florence, Siena, Arezzo, Chianti and the like. I'd actually prefer to stay in a hill town--but I have little money. Any brilliant ideas for cheap apartments, agriturismos or hotels that are close to the rest of the world? Thanks.
Emma <email>
Olympia, WA USA Sun 02/25/2007

IS PRAGUE WORTH VISITING
Amy: Having visited all of the capitals of Europe, I would place Prague on my list of the 3 most interesting cities.

The architecture equals Budapest and Paris.
USA Sun 02/25/2007

Re: Brussels
One thing to do in Brussels, which is a bit off the beaten path, is to visit the Horta Museum. It's the home of the art nouveau architect, Victor Horta, who also designed many other buildings in the city.
USA Sun 02/25/2007

The Netherlands
I'll be in the Netherlands for five days in early September. Any suggestions or favorite places? I'm trying to arrange to be there for the canal boat parade from Aalsmeer to Amsterdam. Is it worth arranging my trip to see it? Thanks!
Marhanal <email>
NC USA Sun 02/25/2007

Re: Is Prague worth it?
I haven't been to Prague yet, but we're going in August. Since no one else responded, I will tell you what I do know. I know two people that have been. Both said it was their favorite city in Europe! They couldn't rave enough about it. After hearing this, we made sure to include it in our next European trip. But I would still like to hear input from others who HAVE been there!
Amy
Clarksville, USA Sun 02/25/2007

European hairdryer
I've been to Europe four times before and I've had awful luck with hairdryers. The last time I went, I bought a dual voltage one which I used with an adaptor. The thing would only blow cold air. Since we're "budget travelers", most of our hotels don't have them in the room. I've come to the conclusion that for my next trip in August, I'd like to purchase an actual European hairdryer. One that is wired only for Europe. SO, my question is, does anyone know where I could purchase one before I leave. I'm way too cheap to buy one over there because I know it will be expensive!!! Anyone know of a website I could go to to find one that is reasonably priced? Or does anyone want to sell me theirs? :)
Amy
Clarksville, TN USA Sun 02/25/2007

ATM in Keszthely, Hungary
We are coming into Hungary from Slovenia. Our first stop in Hungary is at 19:00 on a Saturday evening in Keszthely(Lake Balaton) I understand that there are taxis available, but am concerned about being able to pay the taxi. Does anyone know if there is an ATM at the train station in Keszthely or nearby? Our other option is to pay in Euros or Dollars. We are staying in a village 4 miles from the station, so walking with our bags isn't really an option. Any advice would be welcome.
Karen <email>
USA Sun 02/25/2007

Rome on May 1, 2007, a public holiday
We will be in Rome May 1st which is labor day, a public holiday. Will anything be open? Thanks for the help.
Clara <email>
Tulsa, OK USA Sun 02/25/2007

Re: August Heat in Athens
If I was traveling with a "heat sensitive person" (especially if they have medical problems) I would definitely find hotels with AC and keep activity at a slow pace with the use of taxis, tours, and plenty of time sitting in the shade enjoying a cool drink. You may want to consider going in the late spring or early fall to accomodate this persons comfort level.
Kim
USA Sun 02/25/2007

Husky drawn sleigh ride $$$$?
Does anyone have any idea how much a husky drawn sleigh ride cost? It sounds touristy and probably expensive, but my 10 yr old will think she is in heaven if she gets to ride one. Can 2 people ride together?(my daughter might be scared to ride by herself) Two years ago, we did a couple of beautiful hikes detailed by Rick but did not have a chance to go up to the Jungfrau because of bad weather. Can't wait to go back to do the Jungfrau and Schilthorn or just hiking thru the Alps. Thanks
BG
San Francisco, CA USA Sun 02/25/2007

How Soon in Advance to Reserve Rooms
I would probably start reserving rooms the end of August or even September. October is well past the peak tourist season, so I doubt you have serious problems finding accomodations. The best advice is for you to do what makes you feel most comfortable.
Kim
USA Sun 02/25/2007

Porto Santo Stefano Monte Argentatio Italy
My husband and I are taking our first trip to Porto Santo Stefano Monte Argentario Italy in June. I would like to know if anyone can advise what to wear in that particular area, as we will be in a hotel on the beach and I would think it would be sport wear..? The hotel is very nice. We like to dance and go to restaurants. Do people dress up at Porto Santo Stefano? Any information is appreciated! Please advise.
Mermaid <email>
Camarillo , 93010 USA Sun 02/25/2007

French Alps or the Berner Oberland
We have done both and loved both, for different reasons. Chamonix is charming and it is much easier to get to the top (Aiguille du Midi) from there vs. getting to the top of Jungfraujoch, much less expensive too. We enjoyed going to the top of Aiguille du Midi, and being there, much more than Jungfraujoch in the Berner Oberland. They speak French in Chamonix vs. German in Berner Oberland, which may not matter to you. Obviously, the food is different, German vs. French if you have a preference. We stayed in Murren in the Berner Oberland and LOVED it!! I can't say enough good things about Murren and the wonderful Hotel Eiger there. It was the highlight of our trip. The hiking from Murren and the Schilthorn was incredible!! We absolutely loved it there. BUT, we hated the Jungfraujoch. Took all day to get there and back, cost about $350 for 2 of us, and was very unimpressive to us. We were very sad we had wasted a whole day doing that. Chamonix (Aiguille du Midi) was 1000 times more impressive to us. We did enjoy the Schilthorn, I would do only that next time, not Jungfraujoch. So, we loved Chamonix mostly because of Aiguille du Midi and we loved Murren for the hiking and the Schilthorn. The Berner Oberland is a bit overwhelming in it's size, you will need at least 3-4 days to see everything. Chamonix you can do in 1 day, and is very charming. I hope my 2 cents helps.
Jackie
Sausalito, Ca USA Sun 02/25/2007

How soon in advance to reserve lodging
I plan to travel to Italy in October for 22 days of travel. I was going to start making hotel arrangements in June/July. Can anyone advise if that is soon enough or if I should reserve earlier?
Carol <email>
Huntington Beach, CA USA Sun 02/25/2007

Berner Oberland
If you go to the Berner Oberland, the Jungfrau is a *must* see attraction and shouldn't be skipped. It's a UNESCO world heritage site, which means it is one of the most unique locations on the planet. It is more expensive and crowded then the Schiltorn but you get more bang for your buck: There is the cool train ride inside the the mountain top, amazing views at the observation deck, the elevator down to the surface of the glacier, and the elevator down even further inside the glacier where there are amazing ice sculptures. Don't get me wrong, the Schiltorn is a great attraction, but not going the Jungfrau would be like traveling to Cairo and not visiting the pyramids!
Michael Schneider <email>
NY USA Sun 02/25/2007

Car Rental in Frankfurt
Car Rental in Frankfurt

We picked up and dropped off our car at the airport - very accessible, even for those of us who don't speak German. Last summer, we spent our last night at the Cafe Post in Assmannshausen, outside of Ruedesheim. I highly recommend it - we were just 30 minutes from the Frankfurt airport, in a charming family owned hotel with a great restaurant. Our window looked out over the Rhine, and the little town was charming, with a chairlift that takes you into the woods for hiking above the town.
Joni <email>
Plymouth, MN USA Sun 02/25/2007

Brussels -to Do
I agree w/ Norm little to do but Grand Plaza and mannequin pei in Brussels. I always bypass Brussels and stay more time in Brugge. Alot to do in and around Brugge.
JS
USA Sun 02/25/2007

Heat in Athens during August?
We read in a travel guide that the weather in Greece in July and August is "debilitatingly hot." One of our travellers is heat sensitive. Anyone have any experience with the weather in Athens or the Pellopenese in August?
David Wroth <email>
Carol Stream, IL USA Sun 02/25/2007

Re: Brussels ToDo?
An afternoon and evening should be enough time to "do" Brussels. In my opinion, the only thing of great interest in Brussels is Grand Place and the streets surrounding it. There are other things to see, but they've never really piqued my interest. If you get bored earlier, simply head to the train station and take an earlier train to Bruges. You should try to stay at Grand Place for dinner though....there are dozens of wonderful restaurants in the narrow streets behind the west side of Grand Place.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 02/25/2007

suggested hotel
gerber hotel mainz
fred
USA Sun 02/25/2007

heidelberg cheap accomodation
can anyone suggest cheap accomodation in nheidelberg germany?
lou
tor, ont USA Sun 02/25/2007

heidelberg cheap accomodation
can anyone suggest cheap accomodation in heidelberg germany?
lou
tor, ont USA Sun 02/25/2007

public lockers victoria station
ther are no public lockers in the station. but there is locker storage there by the hour.
al
tor, USA Sun 02/25/2007

Brussles ToDo?
I would like some input on Brussels. My original intent was to leave Paris in the morning and stop at Brussels for an afternoon/evening before heading on to Brugge for 1 1/2 days then Amsterdam. But I really don't see a lot to see and do there? Or maybe that is not enought time? Would I be better off spending additional time elsewhere? Time spent in europe is expensive, so trying to spend wisely. Maybe more time in Brugge instead? I have read other comments here concering Brussels but looking for specifics. Comments and recommendations would be most welcome.
Danny <email>
Madison, WI USA Sun 02/25/2007

Easter in Rome
Hello Lucy, I can recommend Morgana Hotel, Rome. It's a block from the train station. Perfect if you're planning to use the public transportation system. Word of advice. Get an early start and beat the crowds by booking reservations in advanced to some museums.
Dorothy Hudson
Orlando, FL USA Sun 02/25/2007

Berner Oberland
I would definately go for Switzerland.

Given cost and time and kids though, I think I'd opt for the Schlithorn and not Jungfrauloch. I've not been up the latter, but the tickets are quite expensive and recent comments suggest that it's getting very commercial and a lot of the trip up is sans views.

It's much quicker to get up to the Schlithorn (all cable car now, if you go direct from Lauterbrunnen) with fantastic views. You can enjoy the view and still have time to explore around Gimmelwald and/or Murren and do some hiking.
Kate
Scotland Sun 02/25/2007

Don't try to scare Brooke of a bike trip
For those people that write that bike trips in Ireland are not safe, you have no idea how to ride a bike in another country.

if you claim that "from your car" you have never seen a bike rider in Ireland....that's correct....bike riders take the scenic, back roads so as to stay away from people like you.

Bike touring in Europe - any country - is so much more fun and exercise and getting close to the country and people that seeing a country from your car.

Don't diss it, or drop your opinion as fact.
USA Sun 02/25/2007

French Alps or the Berner/Oberland Alps
Hi L Kraus, Berner/Oberland hands down. Blessed with clear blue skies and an early start your family will capture a life time memories. The journey is half the fun!It's amazing how weathermen can forecast weather 15 days in advanced to ensure the perfect day. Get an early start so you can enjoy breakfast up top the Schilthorn and end your day Up top of the Jungfraujoch. Take a train from Interlaken East station to Lauterbrunner. In Lauterbrunner there is a ticket office. Plot your trip there. Schilthorn to Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe). Transportation to Schilthorn and Jungfraujoch is by cable car and cog wheel. I've been up top Mont Blanc-the scenery is beautiful,but not enough to do for family interaction. Jungfraujoch has the following to offer. Ice Palace Ice Gateway Sphinx observation terrace Plateau with hikes in the eternal snow "Top of Europe" Glacier Restaurant High Alpine Research Exhibition Summer (June-September): ski & snowboard park, husky-drawn sledge rides, adventure attractions: e.g. Tyrolienne, snow disk etc If cost is an issue go for the Jungfraujoch adventure. Play day in the snow! Another, option is Mount Titlis just an hour train ride out of Luzerne.
Dorothy Hudson
Orlando, FL USA Sun 02/25/2007

One extra week in Europe
My daughter will be spending a month (July-August) studying in Ales, France where she will be doing weekend excursions to Nice, Dordogne, Provence, Paris. She plans to stay in Europe for an extra week after her classes are over and would like some suggestions on where to go. She ultimately has to be back in Paris to fly out and doesn't plan to rent a car (potential rail pass??). She has talked about possibly Belgium, Germany, Spain or staying in France (sooo many choices). Any suggestions for two 22 year old girls? She wants some nightlife but also wants to be safe.
Connie <email>
USA Sun 02/25/2007

Monterosso al Mare
Has anyone stayed at Albergo Marina in Monterosso al Mare? They are quoting me 100 euros with 10% off with cash which is better than what is listed in Rick's book.

I tried Trattoria Gianni in Vernazza but they were above Rick's quotes and would not budge.
Chris
TX USA Sun 02/25/2007

Re: All inclusive Paris Pass
Whether the pass is "worth it" depends on the individual and their travel plans while in Paris. The all-inclusive "Paris Pass" you mention is really a Paris Museum pass, plus a 2-day public transit pass, plus, it appears, a ride on one of the boats down the Seine, an open-topped bus tour, and various and sundry discounts at restaurants, stores, etc. It's 2-day cost is 69 Euro. A 2-day Paris Museum pass is 30 Euro, while a pass for two days on the Paris public transportation system (zones 1-3) is 14 Euro...44 Euro total (by the way, a "carnet" of 10 transit tickets is about 11.50 Euro, so ask yourself how many trips you plan to take on public transit over the two days). The question to ask...are the extras in the "Paris Pass" worth 25 Euro more to you than the Paris Museum Pass and two-day transportation pass purchased separately (plus the 7.95 Euro you'll have to pay to have the inclusive "Paris Pass" shipped to your home).
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 02/25/2007

Has anyone used the all-inclusive Paris Pass? It supposedly works for all sites as well as the metro and busses. This is different from the regular museum and metro passes. Is it worth it-- does it work?
Angela <email>
MN USA Sun 02/25/2007

BICYCLE TRAVEL IN IRELAND
Brooke: Since I have driven the roads of Ireland and N Ireland, I would never try to ride a bicycle on any of them.

They are too narrow and have no shoulders. Too dangerous to drive even in a car.

I can’t remember ever seeing a bicycle on the roads there.
USA Sat 02/24/2007

French Alps or the Berner/Oberland Alps
Has anyone out there done both the Chaminox/Mont Blanc (France) area and the Berner/Oberland (switzerland) area? We are planning for July 2007 and are a family of four (kids 9 and 14 years old). I would like to do both, but not enough money, not enough time. Any one out there with any comments?
L Kraus
USA Sat 02/24/2007

Eastern Europe - Euro
As of now, Slovenia is the only eastern European country to be admitted to the European Currency Union. Other eastern countries might accept the Euro locally, but they are not a part of the Currency Union. A number of other eastern countries have applied to be accepted, but until they meet certain requirements, such as stabilty of their currency, they will not be admitted.
<email>
USA Sat 02/24/2007

Train or car in Switzerland for Lori
Lori, it depends on your itinerary. I usually do a combination of both. Be aware car rental is more expensive in Switzerland.perhaps that will enter in your decision also.
JS
USA Sat 02/24/2007

Eastern Europe
Say it isn't so.......has all of Eastern Europe transferred to the Euro? There goes my trip.
Michele <email>
SLC, Utah USA Sat 02/24/2007

Car rental Frankfurt
Of the two places suggested, I would recommend Bacharach for the first night, particularly because it is so close.

Bacharach and Rothenburg are both easy to get to by rail and the train will cost less than using a car. Plus, you will avoid driving with jetlag after a long transatlantic flight.

The trip from FRA to Bacharach costs €9,50 per person and takes about an hour and a half. You take the S-Bahn to Mainz and change there for a regional train to Bacharach.

If you buy local tickets from FRA to Kahl, Bavaria and use a Bayern ticket from there to Rothenburg, the whole trip, FRA to Rothenburg, will cost €40. Fuel alone for a compact car from FRA to Rothenburg will cost €19 (ViaMichelin). You go by S-Bahn to the Frankfurt Hbf where you catch a regional train to Würzburg. There are two short regional train connections from Würzburg to Rothenburg. Those are included in the Bayern Ticket.

You can catch the S-Bahn to Mainz or Frankfurt Hbf at the regional train station which is underground right across the street from the terminal.
<email>
USA Sat 02/24/2007

Car Rental Frankfurt
I would suggest getting your car at the airport and staying somewhere else.Bacharach on the Rhine,Rothensburg on the Tauber are both great places that are close.The airport is outside of Frankfurt and easy to get a car.Both ar great places to get over jetlag.best regards.
Jack <email>
Shebgan, Wi USA Sat 02/24/2007

Auschwitz-Birkenau
Sandra: Two days should be enough time for your visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau. Most people find one day or part of a day adequate, but you want to spend more time than most. Auschwitz is smaller than you might expect and well preserved. Many of the barracks have displays dedicated to a particular subject or a particular group, and one could easily spend considerable time visiting them. Birkenau, while unimaginably large, has very few buildings remaining. Those that do remain surround the railroad tracks so often depicted. You may actually spend less time at the larger camp. Since the visit is so important to you, consider hiring a guide for a few hours. A good one will add perspective you might miss on you own. Should you finish your visit in less than two days, there are holocaust related sights in Krakow worth visiting. In fact, Krakow is a wonderful city and you may want to include an extra day at the beginning or end of your visit just for it.
Frank
Wilmington, DE USA Sat 02/24/2007

where to stay in london
hotel annexe in victoria
nick
tor, USA Sat 02/24/2007

Train or Car in Switzerland
Lori, I personally love the trains in Switzerland and a Swiss rail pass will include most other forms of public transportation so you'll never have to hassle with a ticket line.

Swiss trains are clean and on time and the view is unbelievable.
Elaine
Castle Rock, Co USA Sat 02/24/2007

Train or rental car in Switzerland?
My teenage daughter and I will be in Italy and Switzerland this summer. We plan to travel mostly by train in Italy. We want to know if we should take the train from city to city in Switzerland too or rent a car for the 4-5 days we will be there. We will not be staying more than 1 night in any place. Other travel sugestions in Switzerland are appreciated.
Lori
Los Angeles, CA USA Sat 02/24/2007

Easter in Rome
We will be in Rome on Easter weekend. Any tips from anyone who has done that on what to do would be appreciated. We were thinking of going to the Vatican. I'm sure it will be mobbed. I hope the shops and restaurants will be open on Easter Sunday. Any tips would be appreciated.
Lucy
USA Sat 02/24/2007

Civita is great!
Civita day pack is wonderful. I like it so much I use it very often at home and not just when traveling. It is washable as well. It is great for shopping and carries my lunch along as well.
Shirley
Fort Worth, TX USA Sat 02/24/2007

re: Hotel Europa
Diane, I love Art Nouveau buildings but remember reading that the rooms in the hotel are run down. Also, that part of Wenceslav Sq is not the safest to walk around at night.
Fiona
NYC, Fri 02/23/2007

sleeping in Rome
I'm looking for a nice/reasonable hotel (or hostel) in ROME for just before Easter. My head is spinning reading all the conflicting reviews online! Any advice where to stay / not to stay?
Anamie <email>
MI USA Fri 02/23/2007

Brooke - bike trip in Ireland
From friends that have done this...GO! Take the kids and enjoy the exercise and wonderful way to see a country.

Try www.irondonkey.com They offer some great bike tours in Ireland...and come highly recommended by close friends that used them in Ireland last year, and will use them in Italy this September.
Ellen <email>
CO USA Fri 02/23/2007

Sleeping in Athens
In Athens, looking at staying at the Claridge or Appia Hotel. Any suggestions? Thanks.
Anne <email>
Cleveland, Ohio USA Fri 02/23/2007

Prague
I will be staying in Prague at the end of May 2007, I am charmed by the photos of Hotel Europa but feel it may not live up to its curb appeal. Please let me know if I am right in my assessment and suggest alternative places to stay.
diane <email>
houston, texas USA Fri 02/23/2007

Frankfurt Hotels and Car Rental
We are flying into Frankfurt and want to spend one night, then pick up our rental car (wherever we figure out to rent it!) Any suggestions for moderately priced hotels near the airport and a car rental facility?
Cheri
Ilwaco, WA USA Fri 02/23/2007

Vitruvian Man
I've been reading alot on Venice because I will be there in 2 weeks. I came across a posting of some angry visitors to the Academia. Apparently, Vitruvian Man hasn't been there in 7 years! Does anyone know where it is?
Violet <email>
san diego, CA USA Fri 02/23/2007

Schilthorn hike
For J.---we didn't do the hike, because it was too cloudy on the day we had planned for it. We stayed below the clouds and went to the Rotstockhütte instead. But I believe that the 5-hour estimate is for a one-way hike, from Gimmelwald or Mürren up It is an ascent of around 5,000 feet.
USA Fri 02/23/2007

Re:Driving Paris to Nice
Just remeber that driving from Paris to Nice will involve 1000 km worth of fuel, and the motorways are all toll roads. Adding up the wear and tear on yourselves, the train will probably be worth the cost.
Steve
Seattle, USA Fri 02/23/2007

Cooking Class in Italy
Does anyone know of a half day or a one day cooking class in Italy?
Vaune <email>
Athabasca, AB Canada Fri 02/23/2007

Public lockers @ Victoria Station London
Yes, there is "Left Luggage" at Victoria Station London. Because of security concerns, many places do not have coin lockers. And at the checked luggage, anything taken in is subject to a security check.

You can find more information about rail stations and rail services in the UK at http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ They also have schedules, service bulletins, maps, and much more.
Michael <email>
Edmonton, Canada Fri 02/23/2007

Bicycle travel
We are thinking of taking a bicycle tour of Ireland (or other location) with our 16 and 18 year old children. Tips? Ideas? Or don't do it!!!! Thanks....
Brooke <email>
Salem, OR USA Fri 02/23/2007

Victoria Station London
Does anyone know if there are public lockers to rent at Victoria Station in London?
Marie <email>
CA USA Fri 02/23/2007

Tour of Normandy/Mont Saint Michel
Need help finding a good touring company for a visit to Normandy/Mont Saint Michel for 3 days/2 nights from Paris. How about Grey Line?

Thanks
Carma <email>
Plattsburg, MO USA Fri 02/23/2007

1/4 bord vs. 1/2 bord in Scandinavia
I've been looking into a farm stay in Denmark. Could someome please refresh my memorie as to the difference between 1/4 bord vs. 1/2 bord? I know it has something to do with meal priveldges, but I am drawing a blank. TIA
Elaine <email>
Castle Rock, CO USA Fri 02/23/2007

Store bags @Edinburgh bus station, not Waverly train station
When we pulled into Edinburgh two years, we passed the left luggage facility and learned that it cost £5 to store EACH bag. Some friendly Scots told us that the Edinburgh bus station [just a few blocks away on St. Andrew's Square] had large lockers for £5. Sure enough, a £5 locker at the bus station was large enough to fit all the luggage [including food bags and day packs] for the four people in our group.
Paul
ABQ, NM USA Fri 02/23/2007

Babiole
Has anyone staying in the rue Cler area ever gone to Babiole on Champ de Mars. It is a "souvenir" gift shop owned by an American living in Paris. Wondering if it is worth a trip or if things are cheaper elsewhere. Thanks.
USA Fri 02/23/2007

Bordeaux B&B and wineries
In March I will be staying 2 nights in the Bordeaux region and would like any advice on B&Bs near Bordeaux and/or St Emillon and also any great wineries I should visit. We will have a car, so group wine tours aren't necessary.
Kathy
San Francisco, USA Fri 02/23/2007

Hiking Schilthorn
Has anyone done the hike from Murren to the top of Schilthorn? We're staying in Murren in July and plan to make the hike. We've heard it takes 5 hours. Any comments would be welcome.
J. <email>
Booth, BC Canada Thu 02/22/2007

Civita Day Bag
I covered a piece of foam with a piece of maroon color fabric to match my day pack and attached it to the inside. It helps protect my back against the sharp corners of the books I carry (Italy 2007). I also covered a piece of foam for the inside bottom of the bag. Now I need a piece of leather on the bottom for setting the bag down on the ground. Better yet have a waterproof bag made. (Suggestion for RS). I'd be willing to pay more for a day pack as we tend to travel when it's rainy (September/October).
OR USA Thu 02/22/2007

Re: Civita Day Pack
I bought a Civita day pack in 2002 and have used on two trips to Europe. It's great!
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 02/22/2007

Love the Civita Bag!
Mine is getting ready for it's 6th big trip. I think it's especially useful for adventures like you are about to have that are more outdoor- oriented than lots of elegant city touring. It is very lightweight. The main compartment is quite roomy (big enough for a rainjacket or sweater)and I leave it pretty empty for souvenirs as the day goes by. The middle one is perfect for guidebook pages, glasses case, sunscreen,etc. and I use the smallest one for bathroom supplies and hand sanitizer. No money or valuables in there at all. I've never had a problem, but slung over my shoulder I figure the Civita functions also as a "decoy" from the very small travel wallet in front, if I have no pockets that day, for smaller amounts of money. You are so wise to use the money belt at all times. (I have found in hotter climates that it helps to use small zip lock baggies for your tix, bigger money, passport, etc.) Lastly, some trips I have smushed it into my carry-on to use upon arrival, while others I have used it as my "personal" item- it's wonderfully versatile and I think you'll be very pleased with the purchase.
Karen
USA Thu 02/22/2007

Re: Driving from Paris to Nice
Here is what I found at viamichelin.com.

Time: 08h24 including 08h07 on motorways

Distance: 940km including 932km on motorways
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Thu 02/22/2007

Hotels in Cinque Terre
Take Rick's advice and just "show up" in the Cinque Terre. We opted for Vernazza and ended up in a charming two-level room with a roof-top terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. We were surrounded by the laundry billowing in the window, but that didn't detract from the view, complete with wine and the best olives (from the 5 Terre Co-op). Don't be afraid to say no thanks if you get nailed at the train station and are shown something that isn't what you want. Enjoy the adventure!
Candace
WA USA Thu 02/22/2007

Civita day pack
We are touring Italy,Greece and Turkey late March. I am ordering the Civita day pack and the money belt from the RS store. I am wondering if the day pack is a good bag to use. I know RS uses one on his TV shows. Any comments would be appreciated.
sheila
kamloops, B.C. Canada Thu 02/22/2007

Driving from Paris to Nice
Does anyone know how long it takes to drive from Paris to Nice? I was thinking of taking the TGV from Paris to Nice and then renting a car in Nice, but I found that the cost of the rental is the same if I rent it from Paris. Please advice
Maricela <email>
La Verne, CA USA Thu 02/22/2007

coucette reservations
in europe they are 20 euros. if the buy them here probably double.
joe
USA Thu 02/22/2007

Zefiro World Tours
Richard and Rob, Thanks so much for your advice. You are right, too many ??? and we certainly don't want a great vacation ruined, just am so reluctant to do things totally on my own, being responsible for 4 other people, not speaking the language, etc. (even though I know English is spoken most everywhere). I was glad I did an escorted tour the 1st time I went, but I don't want the rigidity of that schedule again and I want better food!! Thanks so much for your help. I will check out others, including this site! Cindy
Cindy <email>
Waterbury , CT USA Thu 02/22/2007

Auschwitz-Birkenau pilgrimage
Hello! I'm flying into London and taking a Ryanair flight to Krakow to see Auschwitz-Birkenau. I'm planning on doing it in two days. Is this long enough? I only have a week from the day I enter London to when I have to leave and want to spend time in the city. I'm of Roma decent so this trip to Auschwitz is very important to me...like a pilgrimage. Any suggestions? Thank you.
Sandra <email>
WA USA Thu 02/22/2007

Re: Water Fountains in Rome
To add to what Norm said below, the fountains might serve as outlet points for water coming into the city. In the age of aqueducts, forcing water into a small pipe and slanting the pipe downward to take advantage of the force of gravity created increasing pressure within the pipe. Left unchecked, water would gush out at the water's final destination or the pipes would burst along the way. Whether the fountains today still serve this purpose, I'm unsure. I've been refreshed many times by the free water these fountains provide throughout Rome and it's neat to think of this possible ancient connection each time. (See Don Nardo's _Roman Roads and Aqueducts_, Lucent Books, 2001).
JSC
Pittsburgh, PA USA Thu 02/22/2007

Night train question
I don't know if this applies to night trains in eastern Europe, but it does in the west, so it probably does in the east too.

Night trains are very popular and often sell out of most accommodations well in advance. It is very advisable to get your tickets early or you might find your schedule is a lot less flexible than you would like.

With full fare tickets, you can probably exchange them IF there are any accommodations available on a later train.

Cochettes are compartments with essentially a bunk and a blanket for each person. People are expected to sleep in their clothes. Most couchettes are for 4 or 6 people. Only occasionally will you find a train with two person couchettes.

On the other hand, most trains have private 2 person compartments (sleepers) with linen on the beds and at least a washbasin. These accommodations, or course, cost more per person than couchettes.

You major problem will probably be finding a source of tickets from over here. I don't think Czech, Polish, or Hungarian Rail have provisions for onlne orders. I think RailEurope sells tickets and reservations for those train, but they are probably considerably more expensive than what you would pay over there. Euraide sells reservations for the European counter price; they charge about $50 for the service of buying the tickets over there and sending them to you. I think that even with the Euraide service fee, they would still be less for two people on both trains than R/E with their markup and shipping/handling charges.

Euraide has prices for reservations for those trains on their website. They don't specifically claim to sell full tickets as well, but I think they do. Call them.
<email>
USA Thu 02/22/2007

Zefiro World Tours
Cindy,to many red flags,what are you crazy,Richard from Bell.Washington listed some good advice.
Rob
Littleton , Co USA Thu 02/22/2007

Zefiro World Tours
Doing a quick Google search turned up virtually nothing on this outfit. I also went to epinions.com, nothing there. And you are already having communication problems this early in the game...you are right to start asking questions and the answers don't seem like good ones. I hope you haven't invested any $$$. There are way too many reputable tour agencies to trust a deal like this one. Obviously Rick Steves' tours are great, go-today.com has good packages and reviews, and there are more that I'm sure people on this board could steer you towards. I would start by getting Rick Steves Italy guidebook and DVD's and going from there. Maybe you don't need a tour package at all, independent travel to Italy is not difficult with good, basic information that gives you a measure of confidence. Happy Travels!
Richard
Bellingham, WA USA Wed 02/21/2007

RS Packing Cubes
We, living in Seattle in the summer, visit the RS store in Edmonds several times each summer - usually on a TravelWeekend when all items are discounted - anyway, have purchased numerous of his packing cubes of different sizes and different colors and have never had one that smelled. You should give them a call and see what they say.
Charlie <email>
Seattle/Honolulu, WA/HI USA Wed 02/21/2007

ZefiroWorld Tour Company
I am planning a trip to Italy and am considering using ZefiroWorld Tours' Independent Travel Package. I have not been able to find any reviews on this travel agency. Has anyone had any experience with them. They originally sent me an itinerary but have been very bad with email communications (4-5 days to answer any questions). Also, I can't find any hotel (former monasteries)reviews (they must use different names for them? Any input would be greatly appreciated!
Cindy <email>
Waterbury, CT USA Wed 02/21/2007

Night Train Question
My wife and I will be travelling between Prague--Krakow--and Budapest in April. To save time, we wanted to use the night trains. My question is how long should we book these in advance? Right now, our schedule is still frexable, and I would like it to remain so on the trip. Also, once we reserve in advance, would it be easy to change the date to a later night? And would my wife and I be able to share a private couchette?
Jared <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Wed 02/21/2007

Easing airfare anxiety
Thank you all for the suggestions and comments about airfare. Charles, I will definitely take yours into consideration. I will be flying from Houston to Roma during the high season, but hopefully by checking out my usual websites daily, I'll find something for a little under $1000. Heres to hoping!
Jen
USA Wed 02/21/2007

Sicily car rental
Has anyone rented a car in Sicily? From what we have read it is a mixed bag between that and the bus/train. Have lots of questions. please e mail me
Ed <email>
Vancouver, WA USA Wed 02/21/2007

Driving in Ireland
This web sight will help you with distance and travel time in Ireland. http://www.iol.ie/~discover/driving.htm
Kim
USA Wed 02/21/2007

Driving in Ireland
Yes, driving distances in Ireland are greater than in the US. There are some great maps (I can't think of the name now) that you can purchase in Ireland that show the time between each city. But definitely assume it will take you longer to go 40 miles than you anticipate it. You're not driving on I-5 like you would in CA, even roads that appear to be big highways can turn into small country roads at the drop of a hat (or the turn of a corner as it may be!).
Erika
WA USA Wed 02/21/2007

Paris-Munich-Stockholm couchettes
I don't see a night train that goes straight through from Munich to Stockholm, but there is a night train (NZ 482) from Munich (19:00) to Koebenhvn (9:56). You take regular day trains from there. Of course if your pass includes Germany, Denmark, and Sweden the 7 o'clock rule will apply and the trip only takes 1 day of your pass all the way to Stockholm. 6/4 person couchettes reservations are €20/30 respectively from Nachtzugreise.

The Paris Ost (22:45) to Munich (8:59) train (NZ 261) is also bookable from Nachtzugreise. Couchette 6/4 reservations are €19/24 respectively.
<email>
USA Wed 02/21/2007

distance versus time driving in Ireland
My husband & I are planning a driving holiday in Ireland in late April until mid-May. I've driven a stick successfully in the U.K. before so that's not an issue. My concern is travel time - 40 miles in California is laughable but in Ireland I understand it takes 40 to 60 minutes to go a comparable distance. Anyone out there with experience driving in Ireland (mainly but not exclusively green line roads)? Any feedback helpful!
Marie
San Diego, CA USA Wed 02/21/2007

RE: water fountains in Rome
These little community water fountains are known as "il nasone," the nose...I guess because the little spigots look like noses. They were, at one time, the source of drinking water for the local community, while the basins were used by horses. The fountains run all the time because they're fed with a constant supply of water from Rome's restored aqueducts. The water is potable and, I assume, tested fairly regularly by city officials.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Wed 02/21/2007

Cochette costs
For many German based night trains, you can buy couchette reservations in advance at http://buchung.nachtzugreise.de (click on British flag for English) or at www.citynightline.ch. There is no booking fee for these sites.

For other trains, go to Euraide's website, www.euraide.com, and look under railpasses. There you will find information about couchette reservation prices for just about every night train in Europe. These are the actual prices that you would pay at a ticket counter over there. If you want to have your reservations in advance, for a price ($50 I think), Euraide will buy the tickets over there at the European counter price and send them to you. The $50 covers an entire order, i.e., all the reservations for both of you for the trip.

As a last resort, RailEurope does sell reservations for some trains, but check the other sites first. RailEurope probably adds a pretty steep commission.
<email>
USA Wed 02/21/2007

Couchette Costs
How much are average couchette reservations? I'll be traveling from Paris to Munich and from Munich to Stockholm and I'm just trying to figure out my budget. I've surfed around the web, and haven't found much for prices.

I should mention I'm traveling with my husband with a Eurail pass.
Britta <email>
Fargo, ND USA Wed 02/21/2007

London hotels for Danelle
London sights are scattered all over, so you can't stay close to all of them. Our favorite hotel, the Sanctuary House, is right by Westminster Abbey and Westminster Bridge. We like to walk over to see the Parlaiment buildings and Big Ben tower all lit up at night. It is a pleasant walk to Covent Garden, Soho, Bloomsbury, etc., either through St. James Park and Trafalgar Square, or along the Thames and across the Millenium Bridge. You can get to the Tower of London by boat on the Thames if you wish.
Enzian
Seattle, WA USA Wed 02/21/2007

Airline Tickets
We normally go to Europe every year and I never buy the tickets until our planned departure date is at no more than 3 months away. Airlines set their prices usually 3 months in advance so if you try to buy before that you will pay the 'rack rate' which will be very high. I usually buy my tickets about a month in advance of departure. Given that the days of $450 round trips to Roma from Houston are over, I expected to pay about $750 for a March 2007 trip. Had I been traveling at our usual 'winter rate' I might have found tickets at around $550 to $650. If you are traveling in the tourist season (and we never do) prices will be significantly higher. I no longer use an agent because the airlines have cut them out of the picture and forced them to charge extra fees. In additionally, agents are rarely interested in Rick Steves type travelers who do their own planning and hotel reservations, which is where they make their money. The economics of travel is changing again. The first big change, the domocratizaion of travel, is finished and now the financial shakeout is beginning. I doubt we will ever see really cheap European tickets again, except perhaps for New Yorkers.
Charles M. Luther
USA Wed 02/21/2007

Leaving money in room/hotel safe
If the room has an in-room safe then I always leave money, cards, and passport inside it. If there is no safe then everything goes into a money belt when I'm out sightseeing. I don't bother with safes behind the reception desk it's to big a hassle.
Michael Schneider <email>
NY USA Wed 02/21/2007

Leaving money in room/hotel safe
I have been to Europe several times, but it's been 4years or so since I last went. Money and passport-wise, what do seasoned travelers leave in their rooms when they are out during the day? Is the safe at the front desk actually "safe"?
Danielle
Baltimore, MD USA Wed 02/21/2007

water fountains in Rome
Hi everyone We just returned from a wonderful trip to Rome and I had a question. There were drinking fountains everywhere and they ran continuously. You did not turn the knob to get a drink, the water just ran out of the spicket all the time. Does anyone know why they do it this way? Is there that much water available that it can just flow all the time? I know this is a strange question but I have not been able to find an answer online and I am curious. Thanks, Linda
Dr. Linda Donnelly <email>
USA Wed 02/21/2007

Further to idTGV - TGV
If you don't want to spend six hours on a TGV Paris-Nice, Easyjet flies the route from CDG and Orly airport. With security, getting out to the airport in Paris, then back into the center of Nice, the time savings are just about eliminated....although the price might be a fair bit cheaper by air.
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Wed 02/21/2007

Hotels in Rome, Cinque Terre??
I will be traveling to Rome in the beginning of May. I would like to stay near the Coliseum. Any suggestions? Also, I plan on going to Cinque Terre for about 4 days. Can anyone recommend a hotel?
P. Reed <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Wed 02/21/2007

TGV-idTGV
idTGV is a marketing promotion by SNCF which offers entertainment and other options aboard some of their TGV high speed trains between Paris and Toulouse. it's been around for a couple of years now. See http://www.sncf.co.uk/idtgv.asp. It's aimed at younger travellers who want more than just a boring ride in regular TGV train car. Tickets are only available on the web, I believe, but are cheaper than regular TGV fares. As for non-stop Paris-Nice, I don't believe any make the complete run without stopping....but the TGV station stops are only minutes long in any case. However, there are direct trains and those that require a transfer. Shortest journey is about 5 1/2 hours...longest is about 7. See http://www.sncf.fr/indexe.htm for information and ticket purchases...the idTGV trains will show up as well.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Wed 02/21/2007

Re: Food Splitting
Portions in most of Europe are just that - a portion. Most portions in Europe are not the size of your head, like here in the US. So your daughters may want to get their own meal after all. I have no experience with splitting a portion so I could not comment on that. In Italy, you generally don't order an entire meal. Instead, you order any or all of 1) an appetizer or salad, 2) a "first" course, usually a pasta, and 3) a "second" course, usually a meat. So one daughter could order a salad and a first course, while the other orders a salad and a second course. They could just share the first and second course. My wife and I did that more than once.

Kids meals do exist, but I don't know how prevalent they are. I know they exist because we accidentally tried to order a kids meal in France. That made for some good, if slightly embarassing, laughs.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Wed 02/21/2007

What is idTGV?
Does anyone know what the difference between the TGV and idTGV is? Has anyone traveled using this new rail? Also, does anyone know if there is a non-stop train from Paris to Nice?
Maricela <email>
La Verne, CA USA Wed 02/21/2007

Carcasonne area shuttle
We are staying at Hotel d'Alibert outside Carcasonne in Caunes-Minervous. Anyone know about the shuttle from hotel to Carcasonne? Specifically want to know how late it runs back to Caunes-Minervous. Thank you.
Will Person <email>
Austin, Texas USA Wed 02/21/2007

Reutte or Fussen?
I will be taking the bus/train from the Dolomites (July) and will be in the Neuschwanstein castle area for 3-4 days. I will not have a car, so the questions are: should I rent a car when I get off the train in Austria and stay in Reutte or forego the car and stay closer to the castles (in Fussen). Thanks for the help. This board has been absolutely invaluable!
Kelly <email>
Arnold, Mo USA Wed 02/21/2007

Paris for $1000 a month?
I did this a few years ago so I know it's possible! Found a hotel near the Pont Neuf offering a monthly rate of $800, and had the time of my life. It's closed now, unfortunately, so I need another place. Anybody have any recommendations for budget short-term lodging?
RomanHans <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA Wed 02/21/2007

Food Spliting
My 2 teenage daughters and I are traveling to Germany, France, Italy and London in June. The girls don't eat very much. They always split a meal. Is this frowned upon in Europe? Do they have 1/2 portions or (kid?) meals. Or do I resign to throwing good food away? Any ideas? Thanks Mester
Mester
louisville, ky USA Wed 02/21/2007

Paris daytrips by train for Dede
Paris is a rail hub so many day trips are possible, depending on how much of it you are willing to spend in transit. Marseilles is 3 hours each way, for instance. Also consider Rouen, Chartres, and Brussels.

Your choice is really up to you and with so many interesting choices I suggest doing some research to see what calls to you the strongest. There is even a guidebook about using Eurail to sight-see, with a whole chapter on trips from Paris as a base.

Despite the title of your post I don't think you want any sort of pass for this trip, just a regular ticket. Have fun!
Adam
Boston, USA Wed 02/21/2007

Dieppe Accommodation
I will be in Dieppe next month (mid-March). Could anyone out there suggest a nice, clean but not overpriced place for a solo traveller to stay (besides the hostel, which is currently closed till Summer, 2007)? Merci beaucoup!
Linda <email>
Glasgow, Scotland Wed 02/21/2007

You can wash those cubes!
I don't remember the smell upon arrival that you describe, with mine (which I also love!). But I have washed them after every trip- just threw them in with the dark clothes and then air- dried them on the drying rack. If that doesn't work you should see about getting a replacement set from the RS store. Good luck!
Karen
USA Wed 02/21/2007

Rick Steves' Packing Cubes Question
After reading such great things about using packing cubes - especially the mesh ones RS sells - I bought some today and they are just the perfect size, and fit nicely in my ETBD bag! There is one minor downside that I was hoping someone here could help me with: they smell something awful. They came sealed in plastic so I know nothing spilled on them but they smell a bit like cat urine (although not quite as strong as that). Anyone have a good experience they'd care to share re: getting rid of the smell? I've tried febreeze but it didn't work once the febreeze dried. Any ideas, oh wonderful travel gurus? Thanks all! ~ Robin
Seattle, USA Tue 02/20/2007

day rail pass france
will be in Paris for a week. beside paris only place I have been to is the Loire Vally in the past. was looking at the rail pass for a day on rail europe and wondering where to go Lyon Nantes Avignon Dijon Marseille Reims Lille Bordeaux Bruxelles
dede
USA Tue 02/20/2007

Airfare and London
Jen -- we are trying to do a Denver/Rome/Zurich/Den in the same time period. The best we are finding is about $1200/1300. Some articles are suggesting that this may be a good price because of the weak dollar. Who knows -- may wait a week or two but probably not much more.

Toni -- support your rec for the Victoria Station area. More convenient than some of the others mentioned.
Frank P. <email>
Centennial, CO USA Tue 02/20/2007

Where to stay in London
My husband and I love to stay in the Victoria Station area of London. The trains and Tube are so close and getting almost anywhere is easy. We stay at the Victoria Thistle, but there are LOTS of other options too. If you are flying into Gatwick, it is espeically good. The other area I would recommend is Paddington. Again, easy train and Tube access and lots of choices of hotels, etc. Paddington is probably best if you fly into Heathrow.
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA Tue 02/20/2007

Re: Sticker Shock - price of tickets
From my experience, it seems to be a good idea to wait a bit to buy. Ticket prices might go down...they do tend to move up and down. I paniced last year and bought a ticket to Zurich for $975. One month before my trip, it dropped to $750. I called United and they gave me a voucher for the difference.

My best suggestion is to hold your horses a bit longer...but check every single day to see what the price is for your airline choices - if it drops by $100 or more...buy then.
USA Tue 02/20/2007

Places in London
Two areas in London that are convenient to all major sites (Tube takes you everywhere) are Bayswater (near Paddington Sta and just north of Hyde Park) and South Kensington.
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Tue 02/20/2007

Sky Europe
Sky Europe is a fine budget airline, in my experience. I flew from Split, Croatia to Vienna (shuttle from Bratislava) and it was typical of the reputable, no-frills, low-cost airlines of Europe. I would fly them again.
Richard
Bellingham, WA USA Tue 02/20/2007

Sticker shock - plane tix $$$!!
I am planning a trip to fly into Rome and out of Paris at the beginning of June and I have been searching for plane tickets at a reasonable price and I am shocked. I was wondering if there is a slight chance that I will find a better deal in the next couple of months or should I go ahead and buy them now because the prices will just increase as the time draws near. I understand there is no way to know for sure, but being that I am a novice traveler, perhaps there are those whom are familiar with how these airlines work.
Jen
TX USA Tue 02/20/2007

twojays-portland
we are doing the same thing Aug 17-30 from seattle - e-mail me if you feel free to do so.
Charlie <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 02/20/2007

Dream trip
Looks good to me. My first impression was that there was a lot of moving back and forth (Mittenwald to Berchtesgaden and back to Füssen, but I guess there is really no other way.

A couple of comments: -Three days might be a little long for just Berchtesgaden. You can see Kehlsteinhaus in a morning. Have lunch there, then come back down to Obersalzberg and see the Dokumentation Center, including what is left of the bunkers in the area. That should fill day 6.

Königssee will probably not take a complete day, but don't stop at St. Bartholomä. Go on to Salat and walk across the moraine to the Obersee. It is worth the trip. Great photo op!

You can see the town of Berchtesgaden quite well after a day's touring and in the evenings. Unless you have something else specific you want to see in Berchtesgaden, take the Watzmann Express bus into Salzburg, AT, for a day. It leaves from the bus bahnhof in front of the train station and should cost about €8,50 round trip.

-It certainly won't take a day to see Neuschwanstein. If you do Neuschwanstein early, there is a round trip bus to Wieskirche leaving Hohenschwangau just after noon (12:43). It gets to Wieskirche in a half hour, gives you 45 minutes there, then comes back to Füssen Bahnhof at 14:55.

-On your way to Zurich, take the bus (#56) to Pfronten-Weisbach, then the train to Kempten. It won't take much, if any, longer than through Kaufbeuren/Buchloe, and you might like Pfronten and want to come back sometime.

One other thing. This is a great opportunity to use the Bayern Ticket (Mittenwald to Berchtesgaden, Berchtesgaden to Füssen). Just €19 for a single person, unlimited travel on regional trains in Bavaria all day weekends, after 9 AM weekdays. Price for 2-5 people, €27.
<email>
USA Tue 02/20/2007

B & Bs in Belgium
My wife and I are going to Belgium for two weeks, May 16-30, with side trips to Paris and Amsterdam/Haarlem. Can we get by without accommodation reservations, i.e., hoping we'll be able to find B&B or hotel rooms? Or is that playing it too fast and loose? Thanks
TwoJays
PORTLAND, or USA Tue 02/20/2007

accommodations
Anybody have a suggestion for a place to stay in London by all the main sites; ie...Westminster Abbey, Tower of Londono, British Museum etc... Doesn't have to be right next door but I'm just confused as to which area to stay.
Danelle Gilliam <email>
Boise, Idaho USA Tue 02/20/2007

US Airlines - Trans Atlantic
If you are travelling within Europe, your best best is a European airline or discount airline.

Across the Atlantic, I've had very good experiences with Continental from Edinburgh to Newark. However, travelling from a London airport is going to have its own set of headaches and more delays than from a smaller aiport like Edinburgh.

I used to fly American Airlines to Manchester or London, but became disenchanted because the prices and service were so-so and not worth having to take an extra flight. Also, I would be a bit hesitant to fly American because they code share with British Airways & share facilities at Heathrow. Given BA's constant problems with lost luggage, strikes etc., I like to stay as far from anything to do with BA as possible.

I don't know which airlines do which routes, but I've had good experiences with SAS and heard great things about Virgin Atlantic.

Kate
Scotland Tue 02/20/2007

Carry Ons & Tolietries
The other thing to remember is that each CONTAINER in the bag must be 100ml or smaller. Also, if you are connecting through or departing from an airport in the UK, be aware of the stricter rules there. You can only have ONE carry-on and there is strict limit on the size (see www.baa.co.uk). Its fine to tuck a purse in a larger bag, but together they've got to be within the required size.

Since the rules in Europe vary a bit and it's really up to the whims of security in each airport (and the size of the plane), if you are travelling 'all cary-on', it's a good idea to have what you absolutely need (valuables, medications, passport) in your smaller bag so that if you end up having to check your bag because there's not enough room in the cabin or security decides to be strict, that you aren't caught having to rearrange things at the last moment.

Have fun!
Kate
Scotland Tue 02/20/2007

My Dream Trip
I've been thinking about going to Germany for a number of years now, and I'm hoping to get some insight into a potential itinerary. I've been Googling and visiting Flickr quite a bit to figure out where I'd like to go and here's what I came up with. The whole trip will be via rail. Any suggestions/insights are welcome!!

Day 1: Fly to Zürich. Take train from Zürich to Vaduz Liechtenstein. Visit friends there. Day 2: Spent in Vaduz Day 3: Take train from Vaduz to Innsbruck Austria. Spend a few hours in Innsbruck and then hop on the rail to Mittenwald Germany. Day 4: Mittenwald Day 5: Day trip to Oberammergau, back to Mittenwald in the evening. Day 6: Rail from Mittenwald to Berchtesgaden. Day 7: Berchtesgaden Day 8: Kehlsteinhaus Day 9: Königssee/St. Bartholmä Day 10: Rail from Berchtesgaden to Füssen via München. Visit Hohenschwangau Day 11: Neuschwanstein Day 12: Füssen to Zürich via rail and then fly home. I know it's a lot in a short amount of time, but I want to hit a lot for my first trip so I can have a better idea of where I'd like to "slow down." If y'all use Google Earth, I actually plotted the whole thing out following the rail lines with a fair amount of detail. Go here to get it:

http://home.comcast.net/~nutty.professor/downloads/MyDreamTrip.kmz

Once you download it just double click on the file and it will load into Google Earth. I think I've done quite a good job of it :)

Thanks for your suggestions and I think this is a great site!!!
J <email>
Boston, MA USA Tue 02/20/2007

Airport
We made arrangements with a van service to take us to the airport from our rue Cler hotel. Our hotel called for us. I don't remember the exact price but it was reasonable. It seems like it took about an hour and that was during the morning rush hour.
Sherry
Salt Lake City, Ut USA Tue 02/20/2007

RE: Hotel - CDG
The Accor chain has several around the grounds of CDG. Ibis and Etap are two of their inexpensive chains. Check www.accorhotels.com and enter "Roissy" as the place you're searching. The ones at CDG Paris Nord 2 are the cheapest because they're a little farther from the terminals...maybe a 15-minute shuttle bus ride. They're 50 Euro per night, or less. If you take the RER, you can connect with their shuttle just outside the front door of the FIRST RER stop at CDG airport.
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Tue 02/20/2007

Rail/Drive Passes for Julie
It has been more than ten years since we used these passes, but I doubt things have changed. If they fit your itinerary, they are a great value. You can use the marvelous trains to get from region to region and the car to extend your reach into the countryside. It is great to be able to pick up & drop off a car as needed.

We declined the insurance surcharge. I don't think there are any special tips or tricks. Planning so that you are not burdened with a car on the days you will be visiting a large city is usually a good idea. SW France is not very well served by rail or bus so a car is especially important there. You can probably get as good a rental rate as the pass by renting in advance if you keep that car for a week. And, you can pick up and drop off at different locations within France.

Have fun!
Adam
Boston, USA Tue 02/20/2007

hotel near Charles de Gaulle
You're not going to find a hotel "one metro stop" from the airport as the metro doesn't go there; you'll need to take the train or shuttle or taxi(see Rick Steves' Paris book for explanation of transportation options to the airport). There are some inexpensive hotels near the airport--Rick Steves lists some in his book. We are staying at the Holiday Inn Express, which is slightly over 100 euro. There are several chains with hotels there, like Sheraton and Crowne Plaza, so you might just want to search the internet for a chain you like, like Marriot, Sheraton, or Holiday Inn.
Elizabeth <email>
St. Louis, USA Tue 02/20/2007

Re: Ferry from Athens to Ismara
We used Paleologos Shipping and Travel Enterprises for several ferry rides within Greece (www.ferries.gr). I know their website lists international destinations also. We had no problems booking our tickets with them. They even called my wife's cell phone, from Greece, due to a small mixup in how we were going to pick up our tickets.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Tue 02/20/2007

Mainz accommodations
I don't think you will find a "good hotel" near the Hbf in Mainz for €40. I think that Koengshof (www.hotel-koenigshof-mainz.de) at €55-60 incl. breakfast will be your best bet.

Are you planning to fly out of FRA the next day? If your flight is not too early, you could stay in Bacharach, St. Goar, or Boppard for around €40, but then the train to FRA would be more.
<email>
USA Tue 02/20/2007

Black Forest, Offenburg
I would not consider Offenburg to be a good example of a Schwarzwald town. Offenburg is on flat land next to the Rhein, in an area known as "das Ried", which means a moor or marsh. You need to go east a few km to experience the Black Forest. I don't think any station along the main train line from Karlsruhe to Freiberg would be a typical example of the Black Forest.

Since you are coming from Stuttgart, you could take a scenic route to Offenburg via Freudenstadt, through the heart of the northern Black Forest. Go south out of Stuttgart to Eutingen im Gäu. Change trains there for Freudenstadt (www.freudenstadt.de). Freudenstadt is considered the capital of the northern Schwarzwald and is noted for one of the largest town squares in Germany. There are two stations in Freudenstadt, the Hauptbahnhof, on the main line to Hausach, and the Stadtbahnhof. If you want to see Freudenstadt, go to the Stadtbahnhof (you might need to change trains at the Hbf) or you will have a long uphill walk to the main part of the town.

From Freudenstadt take the train down the Kinzig to Hausach, then to Offenburg. You might want to stop in Alpirsbach (www.alpirsbach.de) for a walk around. There is not much there to see except a tour of the Klosterbräu brewery; it is just a pretty example of a typical BF town. It is in a very narrow pine-wooded valley.

Travel time by this route is about 2 1/2 hours vs. 1 1/4 by the main line, but allow plenty of extra time for stops along the way. The train from Freudenstadt to Offenburg runs hourly. By the way, this route is entirely by regional trains and entirely within Baden-Württemberg, so you could use a Baden-Württemberg Ticket (€18 single, €27 up to five people) for unlimit use of regional trains for a day (all day weekends, after 9 AM weekdays).
<email>
USA Tue 02/20/2007

Paris Rapid Transit
For schedules, maps, other information about Paris transit, visit www.ratp.fr.
<email>
USA Tue 02/20/2007

Paris Rapid Transit
Julie -- Metro is the subway system in Paris. The RER is the regional commuter train system from the suburbs. RATP, I think, is the overall management company that manages all of these system and probably includes the buses. Maybe like the CTA in Chicago.
Frank P <email>
Centennial, CO USA Tue 02/20/2007

Hilltop towns in Italy
There are just so many!

My favorites: Orvieto, Assisi, Todi in Umbria (easy from Rome) In Tuscany: Volterre, San Gimignano.

These are the "major" towns - i.e. Rick writes about them in his books, but if you only have a couple of days, might as well see these...you can explore others on your way!
USA Tue 02/20/2007

RATP/RER/Metro
RATP is the name of the train company/transportation authority.

The Metro is the subway that serves central Paris. The RER also goes through central Paris, but is an express train, with fewer stops. The RER mainly serves the suburbs. You can transfer between the two using the same ticket in the city center (where virtually all places you'll want to go are located.) Outside the city center (Versailles and CDG Airport,) the RER ticket prices are higher, and you'll need to buy that ticket separately (but you can still use that ticket to transfer to the Metro.) Otherwise, the regular tickets work for both.

The best maps show both the RER and the Metro. I like the Printemps brochure, available for free at hotels and all over the city.
Lisa
Lansing, MI USA Tue 02/20/2007

RATP / RER / METRO
I would like to know what is the difference between RATP, Metro, and RER in Paris? Thanks,
Julie
Watertown, NY USA Tue 02/20/2007

Rail/Drive Passes
I would like to know anyone's experience using the combination rail/drive passes. Especially what fees were not obvious so when the car was rented, additional costs became known. I am thinking the price is fair and provides flexibility to see different parts of France. Please share your experiences, best tips, etc. Thanks.
Julie <email>
Watertown, NY USA Tue 02/20/2007

hotel
Hello can anyone recommend a hotel in Paris around 100 euros thats one metro stop from Charles de Gaulle airport,have to catch a early morning flight,thanks
Alan
Denver, Co USA Tue 02/20/2007

Terrific Paris
A few writers here have said that Parisians were rude or arrogant. Even said that they "looked down their noses". Our experience during our stays has never been so. We encountered helpful and pleasant folks everywhere and we were lucky enough to stay long enuf each time so that we felt a part of the city.
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Tue 02/20/2007

China-Asia website
For Michael and any others interested in Asian travel--an excellent website is talesofasia.com.
Carol
Philadelphia, PA USA Tue 02/20/2007

Mainz accommodations
Through this site I was given the name Hotel Konigshof. We stayed there in January. It is right across the road from the railway station. We were a family of 4 and it was one of the cheapest places we stayed at, but I'm sorry I can't remember what the price was. It also had a great breakfast.
Robyn <email>
Australia Mon 02/19/2007

London hotels
me again---anyone stayed at the Abcone Hotel in Ashburn Gardens (London)?
Cary <email>
Hayden, ID USA Mon 02/19/2007

US carriers good for overseas flights?
Anyone have any thoughts about flying on a US carrier to London? Any experience with American Airlines, Continental? Are their international flights more humane than their domestic? We are departing from Paris. Thanks for the info.
Valerie <email>
Exeter, CA USA Mon 02/19/2007

Black Forest/Offenburg
Has anyone visited Offenburg in Germany? We will be taking a day trip from Stuttgart to Strasbourg, France, and I wanted to get off the train and walk through a town in the Black Forest. One of our train stops will be in Offenburg and I thought we could jump off there. Is this a good typical Black Forest town? If not, is there another good one that's on the way to Strasbourg? Thanks!
Amy
Clarksville, TN USA Mon 02/19/2007

For
Whether trusty RS, or one of the other guidebooks or online, you should decide based on your interests. Some people choose for the wine...some for a particular cathedral...some people like hill towns they find themselves not in the books and some want to go to the ones you do see in all the pictures. Or maybe a combination- we met a lot of people who just enjoyed driving and were happy wherever they ended up! This may be a case where deciding based on someone else's opinion is not a good idea- although- you can't go wrong!!!!!!!!
Karen
USA Mon 02/19/2007

3 B@BS IN VENICE
Need help in deciding between 3 in Venice Hotel Riva,Casa Querini,La Locandiera Cost is about 30 Euros difference no problem . Believe all are near St Marks Sq. Any experiences out their ? Thanks Alan in Fl
Alan Goldberg <email>
Lake Worth, FL USA Mon 02/19/2007

Accomodations in Eger
We are going to be in Eger for 2 - 3 nights in June/July. Any advice regarding simple accommodations (rooms, flats, small pension type)?
Karen <email>
CO USA Mon 02/19/2007

language tapes
Hi Deborah, I bought the German "Learn in Your Car" series (3 CD's) from Penton Overseas, Inc. at Barnes and Noble. I found it to be very good. Also at www.pentonoverseas.com Paul
Paul <email>
Netcong, NJ USA Mon 02/19/2007

Paestum by Train
Easy to do this by train. Hop on the SITA bus in Amalfi, or wherever on the coast and go to Salerno. Get the train there which goes directly to Paestum, Pompeii, etc. Make sure you pre-buy your SITA tickets for the journey to and from Salerno!!
Judy
Adelaide, SA Aust Mon 02/19/2007

Mainz accommodations
Can anyone offer tips for a good hotel in Mainz? I would prefer to be near the train station and cost is a factor.

I hear the hostel isn't in a convenient location.

I would like to keep it at 40 euro or below if possible.
Jen <email>
USA Mon 02/19/2007

China
Hello! Can anyone recommend any good websites for planning a trip to China? Would love to find the "Rick Steves' of the orient!"
Michael
Chicago, IL USA Mon 02/19/2007

language tapes
does anyone have a recommedation for language tapes/cd roms? sure would like to work on a second language and am too far from a college to access any tutoring from there...
deborah <email>
logan, ks USA Mon 02/19/2007

Paris/Provence/Kris
Opps! Not sure if JetBlue flies in France, but in my previous post about travel from Paris to Marseille, I should have said that we flew from Orly Airport on EasyJet- just in case someone read carefully the details of my post!
Betsy Jones
Tacoma, WA USA Mon 02/19/2007

Re: Airport
Hi Kimberly -- first of all, please don't type in all caps. It makes it seem like you're shouting or angry, and I'm sure that's not the case. :-)

Second, here's a link to public transportation (RER, Metro, bus) in Paris: http://www.ratp.info/informer/anglais/ You can search by address (e.g., of your hotel) or place (e.g., Charles de Gaulle airport), and it'll tell you how to get there.

I can't speak for taxis, however.
Michelle
Denver, CO USA Mon 02/19/2007

Hill Towns, Italy
We are spending 3 days in Venice, 3 days in Florence, and 3 days in Rome. In between Florence and Rome we have 2 days, and we would like to see some hill towns. Anybody have any suggestions? Thanks
pa USA Mon 02/19/2007

AIRPORT
WE ARE LEAVEING PARIS OUT OF CHARLES DE GAULLE AIRPORT AT 8:00AM ON A MONDAY STAYING THE NIGHT BEFORE ON RUE CLAIR NEAR THE ECOLE MILATARE METRO STOP DOES ANYONE KNOW HOW TO GET TO THAT AIRPORT FROM THAT METRO STOP,OR A WEB SITE TO PLAN OUR STOPS ON THE METRO,OR HAS SOMEONE TAKEN A CAB FROM RUE CLAIR TO (CDG)AIRPORT HOW MUCH WAS IT AND HOW LONG DID IT TAKE TO GET THERE,THANKS FOR YOUR HELP.
KIMBERLY
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO USA Mon 02/19/2007

Ferry from Athens to Ismara
I recently heard that you can take a ferry from Athens to Ismara (Ismaros)and then another ferry from Ismara to Istanbul. Does anyone have information about the cost, travel time, sleeping accommodations, etc. I would like to travel from Athens to Istanbul via ship but not necessarily a cruise.

Meg
Meg
Riverside, Califo USA Mon 02/19/2007

Carry on toiletries
Make up...as long as it's sold is ok in a toiletry bag.

Think liquids for your 1 quart zip lock. i.e. Shampoo. eye solutions, gels for hair. If you bring mascara, zip lock bag. If you bring blush, and it's a powder, toiletry bag.

Here's what I pack in my zip lock: Shampoo, liquid style lip gloss, eye drops, mascara, tooth paste, body lotion.

Here's what I pack in my toiletry bag: tooth brush, solid blush, hair things, like comb, rubber bands.

The TSA site is easy to understand if you think liquids or gels go into the zip lock, everything else goes into your carry on through screening.

When in doubt, be prepared to make a quick switch at the security area. Ask a TSA agent for assistance. I've found them to be very nice - as long as you are nice to them!
USA Mon 02/19/2007

Paris/Provence/Kris
We were in France in early March 2005,arriving right after a snow storm.. and it was rather cold. We bought fleece hats, scarves and mittens on the street in Paris (street vendors everywhere selling such things!), and wore layers. Tights or leggins work well under pants or skirt and a fleece jacket under a wind breaker or rain slicker was a lifesaver. Entering warm stuffy museums, we could take off a few layers, and still be comfortable. We did a lot of walking, when the hats, mittens, etc. were great, and then in the metro or museum, it all came off and went into a day pack. A week in Paris with side trips to Giverney, Normandy beaches, Mt St Michel, Versailles, etc.- definately not enough time, but plan to return! We took JetBlue from Orly Airport, a quick two hour flight that cost about 40 Euros, landed in Marseilles and spent a week in an apartment near Carcassonne- did day trips to the Mediterranean, etc. and basked in early spring warm weather, shirt sleeves, but no shorts! Still felt like heaven after very cold Paris. Being from the northwest also, we didn't think it was too bad, but a bit windy, so the fleece layers and a windbreaker, along with fleece scarf to tuck your chin into when it really blew...typical Puget Sound winter, right? Huge advantage to doing Paris in the winter is virtually no tourists- and you might just hit a few sunny winter days, and there is nothing more beautiful than a crisp, sunny walking tour of Paris! Have a great time-
Jones <email>
TA, WA USA Mon 02/19/2007

Bonnie
We had no trouble parking in Pisa. There are private lots (I don't recall the exact cost but it wasn't robbery) and on street parking. Just drive toward the tower and look around. We have done this on two different trips and had no problem.
Connie
USA Mon 02/19/2007

SkyEurope
Does anyone have any experience with SkyEurope airlines?
Connie
USA Mon 02/19/2007

Re; Paris / Rome Airfare
I have used Gotoday.com on several of my trips to Europe.
Jeff
NJ USA Mon 02/19/2007

Getting to Paestum
Does anyone have a good suggestion for getting, via public transportation, from Sorrento to Paestum. We were thinking about a bus through the Amalfi Coast, but then what? Is there a train that goes on to Paestum?
Larry <email>
Florence, KY USA Mon 02/19/2007

B&B' in Edinburgh
You did not mention WHEN you would be in Edinburgh. Just returned...and found literally thousands of Guest Homes, B&B's, etc. Just google B&B Edinburgh. Why not consider renting a flat [called self catering] and watching your pennies or pence that way. Eat you fancy meal at lunch and making breakfast and dinner at your flat. Afternoon tea is often very filling also. Have a wonderful time in a wonderfully genuine city. Also, us the public buses...very well run and very clean and helpful drivers. This city is so easy to get around.

*** regarding Paris and anti-american feelings...Phewie...never take the Eurostar again!! 3 hours delay on the rails returning from Paris - where we spent a full week being looked down noses...and those huge tourist buses and groups - YUCK! I will see every inch of France before we return to Paris. Cannot imagine what the summer months are like - we were there in November. Phewee, again.
Agnes
North USA Mon 02/19/2007

RE: Paris Pass....correction
The "Paris Pass" as advertised on some websites is really a Paris Museum pass, plus a 2-day public transit pass, plus, it appears, a ride on one of the boats down the Seine, an open-topped bus tour, and various and sundry discounts at restaurants, stores, etc. It's 2-day cost is 69 Euro. A 2-day Paris Museum pass is 30 Euro, while a pass for two days on the Paris public transportation system (zones 1-3) is 14 Euro...44 Euro total (by the way, a "carnet" of 10 tickets is about 11.50 Euro, so ask yourself how many trips you plan to take on public transit over the two days). The question to ask...are the extras in the "Paris Pass" worth 25 Euro more to you than the Paris Museum Pass and two-day transportation pass purchased separately (plus the 7.95 Euro you'll have to pay to have the "Paris Pass" shipped to your home.
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Mon 02/19/2007

RE: Paris Pass
The "Paris Pass" as advertised on some websites is really a Paris Museum pass, plus, it appears, a ride on one of the boats down the Seine, an open-topped bus tour, and various and sundry discounts at restaurants, stores, etc. It's 2-day cost is 69 Euro. A 2-day Paris Museum pass is 30 Euro, while a pass for two days on the Paris public transportation system (zones 1-3) is 14 Euro...44 Euro total (by the way, a "carnet" of 10 tickets is about 11.50 Euro, so ask yourself how many trips you plan to take on public transit over the two days). The question to ask...are the extras in the "Paris Pass" worth 25 Euro more to you than the Paris Museum Pass and two-day transportation pass purchased separately (plus the 7.95 Euro you'll have to pay to have the "Paris Pass" shipped to your home.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Mon 02/19/2007

In the baggie
You must put anything that is a liquid or gel (what those are are specified on the websites) into the one baggie for going through security. Once you are through, then you can transfer the baggie-d items back wherever you want them in your carry on or toiletry bag. If you are traveling RS style with only the carry-on, I would suggest as you pack making sure you can fit the "wet" stuff into that baggie so you have no surprises!
Karen
USA Mon 02/19/2007

Paris & Provence
Considering Paris & Provence in early December 07. Is Paris weather howling bad then or more like NW -cloudy,rainy & doable? Museums & Givency north, and outdoor meandering in south, going to Provence via train &/or cheap jets. What have been your experiences in either place that time of year?
Kris Stephens
shoreline, Wa USA Mon 02/19/2007

trenhotel
has anyone used Tremhotel to travel from Barcelona to paris over night?
bluedenim <email>
vancouver, canada Mon 02/19/2007

Venice, Ljubljana, Medjugore?
I plan to be at a conference in Venice, Itlay June 4-7, 2007 then at a conferene in Ljubljana, Slovenia June 11-13. Any suggestions on how to get to Medjugore and when with this schedule. Other side trip ideas? Inexpensive international airline flight strategies accepted!
Rick <email>
Janesville, WI USA Mon 02/19/2007

carry on tolietries and cosmetics
I know this has been addressed before but it still isn't clear after going on TSA website. In the one quart bag do you have to put toiletries and make up in it or can make up be put in a cosmetic bag and just toiletries in the plastic bag.
USA Mon 02/19/2007

Rome Hotel
Try Hotel Lancelot (www.lancelothotel.com). It's in a great section of Rome, a 5 min. walk to the Colosseum, and 2 min. from a bus stop with a bus that will take you to most of the major sights.
Melinda <email>
Berlin, Germany Mon 02/19/2007

Paris Pass
I was in Paris this past May and bought a 4 day pass. I am so glad I bought that pass. Not only does it give you enterence to almost everything, the eiffel tower is the only thig I recall paying for. I saved hours and I mean hours, you feel like a vip because you can skip all the lines. I found it most useful at the louve, versilles, and especially orsay.

Make sure to get Rick's paris book, he has maps for most of the museums which show other enterences with no lines that you can use with your pass. It was well worth the value. Also if you have an ipod check out itunes for Rick's free audio tours.
Canada Sun 02/18/2007

Advice on Paris/Rome Airfare Needed!
I would like to spend three weeks in Europe in October, with most of the time in Italy and three or four days in Paris. I would love some advice on ways to find the least expensive airfare and the best web sites to use to book air travel. I am thinking of flying into Paris and out of Rome. Does this make sense? I am worried that October might be too cold yet not quite low season. Thanks!
Keir <email>
Portland, OR USA Sun 02/18/2007

Paris Pass
Well, I am not sure if it is the same thing now as it was when I went in 2003, but we used a pass in Paris that included many museums. It was great! It was awesome to be able to go back to the Louvre over and over again. We stopped by almost every evening of our trip. It also encouraged us to go to museums that we wouldn't have normally paid for, like the Cluny museum (which has an amazing tapestry that is totally worth visiting). I would recommend it just for the flexibility it gives you at the Louvre.
Jennifer Herbison <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sun 02/18/2007

A night in Frankfurt
Hi, everyone,

I'm looking for opinions of where to stay near Frankfurt for one night in March.

I arrive at Frankfurt Main one morning and fly from Hahn to Krakow the next. I've considered spending the night in Bacharach or St. Goar (been to both before). Someplace low-key and convenient to Hahh. Will need to arrive at Hahn the next morning about 9 a.m.

I've also thought about going out to Luxembourg City for the night, but it might be a bit too far?

Would there be something interesting and convenient to occupy my time in Frankfurt if I chose to stay there?

Any suggestions?
<email>
Jen , USA Sun 02/18/2007

South K Hotel
We stayed at a nice place called the Ambassadors Hotel off of Gloucester Rd in So Ken in 2005. Breakfast was included in £50 nightly price (hot bfast £5 extra).Sainsbury's at corner on Glou. Convenient to both G Rd and Earl's Court tubes
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Sun 02/18/2007

London hotel
anyone stayed at a clean, 2-3 * hotel near Gloucester Rd/South Kensington tube stations? our former one (Montana Hotel) has gone up to 4*----thks
Cary Miller <email>
Hayden, ID USA Sun 02/18/2007

Paris Pass
Has anyone used the all-inclusive Paris Pass? it's kind of expensive but is the convenience worth it?
Paris diva
Owatonna, MN USA Sun 02/18/2007

Rome hotels
Hi, am single lady travelling to Rome mid March. Can anyone recommend a good hotel in a mid price range? I prefer not near the main station. Thanks
Helen <email>
Brighton, Vic Australia Sun 02/18/2007

? about customs/layovers
If you're traveling w/ the same airline on both flights, your luggage should be checked through to your final destination. (It's always best to make sure when checking in.) You won't have to worry about going through customs either. I'm sorry I can't help you w/your cc question.
Sarah
PA USA Sun 02/18/2007

Showers, Munich station
I can't say if it is still there, but in September of 2000 I took a picture of a place in the Munich station called "Mr. Clean". It was in the passage way between the main level of the train station and the upper level of the S-Bahn station on the north side. It advertised "safe, clean WC" for DM 1,50 (€0,75, in 2000) and showers for DM 10,00.
<email>
USA Sun 02/18/2007

Tuscan Hill Towns
I am planning 4 nites in Siena the last half of Oct and would like some opinions on how best to visit some surrounding hill towns and wineries - specifically how easy is it to explore on one's own with either a car or public transportation vs services of a local guide.
Chris <email>
Tyler, TX USA Sun 02/18/2007

Italy vacation
We just returned from Italy. We did 23 days all by train, followed the guide book and made our reservations daily. All was wonderful and everywhere we wnet someone else had Rick Steves book. We flew to Paris, spent 5 days then used Easy Jet flew to Milan, Used the train to Lake Como, Venice to Florence to Cinqe Terra to Pisa, To Sena, to Assi, to Rome and flew home from Rome. Total traim was 92 euros per person. We had no problems what so ever. 28 days total. Details in the book were great. We took Euros with us never used a bank card etc. Most hotels gave 10-20 % additional discount by using Euros even for the hotels we had already booked ahead. We have left over Euros if anyone would like to purchase below going rate. Comtact me. Thank you for a wonderful trip.
Karen <email>
Gig Harbor , wa USA Sun 02/18/2007

Mont Saint Michel
Stay overnight - it is well worth it.
rc
Lakewood, CO USA Sun 02/18/2007

Showers - Train Stations
Keely, believe Munich train station has a shower facility on the lower level. It's been a few years so I can't be certain, but seem to recall using one after a night train from Venice - remember having to wait about an hour for it to open. The facilty was very clean, reasonably priced and safe. Found a website that says Venice Santa Lucia staion has a "day hotel" with showers available, but can't comment on conditions. It says to look for white WC sign - blue WC sign is just restrooms. Website didn't have a similar article for Vienna.
Frank
Wilmington, DE USA Sun 02/18/2007

Vatican
Norm, I also want to thank you. I need all the help I can get since this is our first trip to Europe and we're doing London, Rome and Paris on our own.
Irene Campbell <email>
Jensen Beach, FL USA Sun 02/18/2007

RE: Emergencies FYI
Actually, 999 is NOT the emergency number in Europe. The number for emergencies in European Union states is 112, although some new member countries may not have it in operation yet. 999 was only an emergency number in the UK, and I believe it is still in effect there, running parallel with 112. Check http://www.sos112.info and http://www.arlenemccarthy.labour.co.uk/ViewPage.cfm?Page=5336 for more on the European Union's emergency numbers...and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergency_telephone_number for a look at other emergency numbers around the world (should be double-checked with national embassies).
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 02/18/2007

Vatican Access
Thank you, Norm. You make excellent contributions to the Wall!
Darcy
Lewiston, ID USA Sun 02/18/2007

Vatican Access
For those thinking of visiting the Vatican and its museums now and in the future, see this New York Times article on increasing restrictions on individual entries (as opposed to those in a tour group). Hopefully, things will work out as well as other places that have instituted mandatory reservations....but get set for some disruption during the changeover. http://travel.nytimes.com/2007/02/18/travel/18journeys.html?ex=1329368400&en=4c8e2ba113c378a1&ei=5124&partner=permalink&exprod=permalink
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 02/18/2007

Emergencies - FYI
Most European countries use 999 as their emergency number not 911. Thought you might want to know ahead of time.
USA Sun 02/18/2007

RE: Hotel in Turin
We've been pleased with hotels in the Accor chain. Check http://www.accorhotels.com and enter your parameters. A quick search for early March shows three available, all for under 100 Euro per night.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 02/18/2007

hotel in Turin
Help! A friend has decided to visit Turin in two weeks and has asked me to assist wtih booking hotels, etc. Does anyone know of a clean, central Turin hotel for less than approx. 100 Euro a night?
Kim <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Sun 02/18/2007

RE: Traffic in Siena in June
Jim - Don't worry about driving in Siena itself, as you will be parking in a large lot at the edge of town. It is so worth it to stay in town. There is a lot of traffic around each of the hill towns, so just find the lot at the edge of each town and walk in. It may take time, but you will find a spot. Just bring your patience and a sense of humor - the payoff will be your experience in each of the towns....
Julie
CA USA Sat 02/17/2007

Question about Customs/Layovers and CC's
Hello I am taking my first overseas trip to London soon and have a couple of questions.

1.I have a four hour layover/connecting stop in Montreal. I do not plan on leaving the airport during this time will I need to go through customs and if I do will I need to pick up my checked in bag or will it be put onto the connecting flight automatically. I will be traveling on the same airline for both flights.

2. Has anyone had any experiences with prepaid credit cards in England/Europe? I have lousy credit and so use a Green Dot prepaid Mastercard the website says it can be used worldwide and I do plan on calling to speak to them about it but I wanted to see if anyone had any first hand experience with these types of cards.

Thank you.
AM
USA Sat 02/17/2007

Cindy...Mont Saint Michel
I do think Mont Saint Michel is worth an overnight stay. I've done both on different trips. It is much nicer at night and in the early morning. Much more memorable. Enjoy!
Susan
Sausalito, Ca USA Sat 02/17/2007

Train from Oslo to Bergen
The Oslo to Bergen train route is considered one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. If your in that neck of the woods you should ride it. You can make even more scenic by doing the "Norway in a Nutshell" tour.
Michael Schneider <email>
NY USA Sat 02/17/2007

Train from Oslo to Bergen
Is the train ride from Oslo to Bergen worth the trip we would have to make from Copenhagen? Is it one that would appeal to young (2 yr - 11 yr) children?
Jan <email>
Ft. Lauderdale , FL USA Sat 02/17/2007

Mont St Michel overnight worth it?
We're (family with 2 teens)planning to stay 1 nt. on Mont St Michel in late May. Is it worth the overnight to experience it at night and early a.m., and also see it lit up? Otherwise, we'd arrive around 9:30a.m. or so (from Bayeux) on a bank holiday, and leave around noon for a 3 hour drive to the Loire.
Cindy <email>
Westbrook, ME USA Sat 02/17/2007

Re: Sitges-Barcelona
I assume you meant to say that your train for France leaves Barcelona rather than Sitges at 08:45. The train from Barcelona Franca to Perpignan leaves at 08:45. Is that the one you'll be taking? See the timetables at www.bahn.de.

According to those timetables, there is a train leaving Sitges-San Pedro de Ribas at 06:41 which arrives at Barcelona Franca at 08:08. If I've guessed correctly about your train to France, you'll have plenty of time to make your connection.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 02/17/2007

Traffic in Siena in June
We currently plan to stay in Siena for 4 nights this June, taking day trips via auto into the countryside. We've heard that traffic in Siena is horrid and we should stay somewhere other than in town. Can anyone tell us how hard it is to get back and forth into Siena via auto?
Jim C. <email>
Columbia, MO USA Sat 02/17/2007

cornwall
need a hotel in port wenn
albert
buff, USA Sat 02/17/2007

RENTAL CAR IN GREECE
Nicole: I have had that problem and I always call the toll free phone number for the rental agency I choose and talk with an agent about guaranteeing I get an automatic transmission car.

Before you sign the agreement at the counter when taking the car, be sure to read it and make certain the agent knows that you wont take a manual trans.

Several times I have had to wait a few minutes for them to find a car meeting my needs.

But it always works out OK.
NANCY M
OMAHA ><>, USA Sat 02/17/2007

sitges-barcelona???
I am a bit confused about to get from Sitges to barcelona. I have a train I will be catching from sitges to France at 8:45 am. I can not seem to find clear information about it. Not sure if you go by bus to barcelona or train and where the train or bus stops or the schedule. help....
confused
USA Sat 02/17/2007

re: Safety in Europe
I wouldn't worry.

I'm guessing that in just about any Western European and probably any EU country that emergency operators would understand some English or would be able to transfer you ASAP to an English speaking operator. And chances are that if an emergency happens, you won't be alone and someone else can help translate if needed. Also, remember to bring a good phrase book - most have a page of phrases for emergencies.

So, I wouldn't worry about that one - chances are you won't need the emergency services anyway. Just have fun!
Scotland Sat 02/17/2007

Safety in Europe
I am wondering about a worst-case scenario. In Rome, I have an emergency of some sort and need to contact the equivalent of our "911." Even once I learn Italy's 911, I won't be able to explain my emergency in detail. Do you have any proactive suggestions?
Caroline <email>
Ann Arbor, MI USA Sat 02/17/2007

re: Royal Air Maroc
Royal Air Maroc is the national airline or Morocco. It's been a while (mid 1990s?) but I flew Royal Air Maroc once from London to Casablanca and it was fine, nothing special, not funky, not particularly memorable in any way. If you've been spending time traveling in Morocco I suspect the flight on Royal Air Maroc will be pretty mundane by comparison. Good luck. :)
David
Seattle, WA USA Fri 02/16/2007

Nancy - booking hotels
I have two hotels I stayed in Last March. Both are small family run, centrally located, with excellent service. Rooms are small, buts that's normal in these cities.

Florence -- Hotel Mario's - 3 minute walk from train station - 10 minute walk to Duomo - Telephone 055 21 68 01

Venice --- Residenza Goldini - 1/2 mile from Rialto Bridge - 10 minute walk to St. Mark Square - Telephone 39-041-2410086

Good luck.
Fred <email>
Dexter, MI USA Fri 02/16/2007

Rental Car in Greece
My husband and I are travelling in Greece the last week of June. We would like to rent a car from Saturday to Saturday picking up and returning in Athens for travel all across the Peloponnese peninsula. This is all possible as I have found in my research, but we HAVE to have an automatic transmission.

Neither of us has been able to master a manual transmission, and I don't think Greece is where we want to try.

Anyone have any recommendations for a rental car company that can guaranteee us an automatic transmission? Thank you!
Nicole <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 02/16/2007

Nancy..staying in Venice
Nancy, we stayed at the Albergo Doni in Venice. It's centrally located, cheap, and acceptably clean. The breakfast isn't great, but we loved our stay. YOu can get great rates if you're willing to stay down the hall from the bathroom. http://www.albergodoni.it/
Nicole <email>
Chicago, IL USA Fri 02/16/2007

Royal Air Maroc
I have to get from Casablanca to Malaga, Spain in March to join a tour. The most convenient flights are on "Royal Air Maroc" which I have never heard of. Does anyone have some experience with them? Also, I've booked a tour with with Key Tours whom I never used before --- any negatives on them?

Thanks
Fred <email>
Dexter, MI USA Fri 02/16/2007

Euros when you go home
If you have Euros in Switzerland on your way home, just keep some and get Swiss Francs. In recent years (we always plan to go back) we very deliberately take Euros home with us. For one thing, the price doesn't seem to be getting better and it's really nice to not have to immediately find an ATM before you can even buy a metro ticket. For six years now we've gone back (sometimes twice). As Rick says "assume you will return" Happy travels.
Karen <email>
Colora USA Fri 02/16/2007

Showers- Venice, Vienna, Munich Train Stations
We'll be taking 3 night trains - into Venice, Vienna, and Munich - all arriving before our hotels will be ready for us. When we were in Switzerland last year we noticed McCleans and used the bathrooms but not the showers. Does anyone know if there are similar companies operating in the three main train stations I mentioned? I loved our overnight train last year from Bern to Paris, but I was totally grimy, and would like this time to pre-empt that.
Keely <email>
Denver, CO USA Fri 02/16/2007

RE: Verizon Wireless
Who would you trust more about Verizon...the people here or the employees at Verizon Wireless International?
Tim
USA Fri 02/16/2007

Verizon service in Italy
I am going to be in Italy and want to use my Razr phone to have access to U.S. and vice-versa..has anyone had any experience with Verizon internationally....do they offer a plan like the one that Cingular has? Thank you one and all....
Joe
Irvine, Calif USA Fri 02/16/2007

provence....
Finally I am getting back to europe. We are doing paris, Provence and Barcelona/sitges.

The plan is to arrive in paris, our flight is scheduled to arrive CDG at 1pm.

Then to take the train to Avingnon making reservations to give us plenty of time in between for late flights ect....

While in Provence we are going to have 5 nights. I want to see Arles, Nimes, Avingnon, Aixes and Montpellier. If time permits Marseille.

We are going to take the train from Montpellier to Barcelona/Sitges and do 7 nights before returnning to paris to do 5 or 7 nights.

The main part of the question is about Provence....how should we arrange it. I was thinking first night stay in Avignon, next day rent a car and see the Aucaducts before driving to Arles where we will spend three nights. From Arles we can do a day trip to Nimes, Aixes and perhaps Marseille. Then spend one night in Montpellier before catching our train to barcelona...

how does this plan sound...do able or should I be looking at something different thanks
bluedenim <email>
vancouver, bc canada Fri 02/16/2007

Visa Check Card
Don't believe what you read about how great the Check Cards are! I would not take the Visa Check Card (or AMEX gift card, or other such) as the only way to pay for purchases or to get cash.

An ATM card and a Visa or Master credit card combo is a better idea, at least to supplment the check card in case it does not work the way you want.
USA Fri 02/16/2007

EUROS IN ZURICH
You can use Euros if the restaurant says you can.

You can also get some use a credit card or get Swiss Francs from an ATM.

Save the Euro for your next trip.
GENE
DALLAS, TX USA Fri 02/16/2007

Can I use Euro's in Zurich?
I will travel to Zurich from Como and stay one night before flying home. I have some Swiss Francs but wondered if I might be able to use Euro's say in restaurants or do I need to exchange them.
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Fri 02/16/2007

Booking Hotels
Nancy: Venice: Gli Angeli (Sonia)very nice lady - close to Arsanale stop - view of canal Florence: Soggiorno Battistero (Mention RS)-view of Duomo Rome: 69maninstreet B&B (mention RS)close to train station Verazza: RoomMartina (mention RS)on harbor with view Good luck. We're getting these B&B's for 100 euros or less during "high" season in October.
Bonnie <email>
USA Fri 02/16/2007

Nancy - Italy Hotels
Try Hotel Pendini in Florence (we thought this was really central to all the major sites) and the Hotel Veneto in Rome (slightly out of the way to major sites, but we did walk from the hotel to the Colisseum, etc. - it's by the American Embassy). We loved both places in 2005 and found both to be reasonable.
VA USA Fri 02/16/2007

booking hotels
Any recommendations on booking hotels for Venice, Florence, Vernazza and Rome? Our trip is in three months, but I have made several inquiries online to places that are in Rick's book, and everybody seems to be booked. Is it too early to panic? Anybody have any good hotel recommendations for those cities?
Nancy
Brentwood, Tenn. USA Fri 02/16/2007

BEST CREDIT CARD TO ACCUMULATE MILEAGE
Cary: We use Citibank card to accumulate mileage with American Airlines. We have used it for years–buying everything –never paying cash.

Pay off every month—pay no interest. As a result we earn enough miles to make two domestic trips or one foreign trip a year. Easy as pie.

I like American because they fly to so many European cities.

Remember that you have to request seats about 200 days in advance to get them because very few seats are allotted to frequent flyers on all airlines and on every plane.
USA Thu 02/15/2007

Late arrival in London
Wes~~there is no reason you have to book a room at a chain hotel. When you contact a hotel to book a room just let them know that you will be arriving late. Here are a few websites for hotels in London you can try. Hhttp://www.londonelizabethhotel.co.uk~~http://www.lunasimonehotel.com/index.htm~~~ http://www.blades-hotel.co.uk/
Ohio USA Thu 02/15/2007

Street Market near SMM
DOBERRY, There is a street market just before SMM (North of SMM)coming from Nazionale. I think the intersection is Torino and D'Azeglio, but certainly within a block of there. If you happen to be staying at the Hotel Aberdeen (and I strongly recommend it), just ask Annamaria.
Charles M. Luther
USA Thu 02/15/2007

Where to go for 2 weeks
Hey Gary, Glad you'r trip went well! I would say for a different, yet similar experience, try Austria and the Dolomites in Italy. We love Salzburg, the Innsbruck area, Hall in Tirol to be specific, and the Dolomites are less than 2 hours drive from Innsbruck area. Many nice towns in Italy (with Austrian feel to them) including, Bressanone/Brixen, Vipitino/Sterzing, Brunico/Bruneck, Bolzano/Bozen, etc. We drove from the Salzburg area over the Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse to the small but gorgeous town of Heiligenblut, Austria last Oct. Stunning scenery! I hope this helps in some way.

Paul

p.s. I didn't mention Vienna as we haven't been there yet.
Paul <email>
Netcong, NJ USA Thu 02/15/2007

John H. Harris - Visa check card
If your visa check card is issued through Bank of America there is no ATM fee at Barclay's banks. Or you could call your bank and they could give you an idea of what the fees may be.
S&S
Sonoma County, USA Thu 02/15/2007

Travel between Croatia and Sicily
We're looking for a way to get from Croatia (Dubrovnik) to Sicily. We'd like your suggestions and comments.
Linda Selden <email>
Palo Alto, CA USA Thu 02/15/2007

Lamole, Italy
We need help figuring out the bus schedule to Lamole, Italy. We want to travel by bus from Florence with our Daughter in law and two young daughters. Any suggestions.
Linda Hoback
Cave Junction, Or. USA Thu 02/15/2007

Rome Street Market
There is a morning veggie, etc. market in Campo dei Fiori which turns into a flower market at night. It's a lot of fun.
Boni
USA Thu 02/15/2007

Student ID
Your daughter will be eligible for many student and youth discounts - they are much more common in Europe than in the U.S. As a student, I rarely pay the full price for museums or tourist attractions and get discounts in some restaurants and stores, as well as on rail tickets. An ISIC Card pays for itself very quickly.

I would get the ISIC Card - though because she's not a full time student at the university, she may need to get the IYTC (Youth Card for Under 26). Many places will accept student IDs, but generally only if they have a photo. Some wil only accept ISIC - the staff may have a photo of the kinds of cards they accept and be hesistant to accept anything else. Plus they're much less likely to know whether a US card is legit or not.

You can get more info at ISIC.org, including lists of all the discounts available, including many in the US.
Kate
Scotland Thu 02/15/2007

Scandinavia
I think you would hard pressed to find a hotel in Copenhagen that doesn't charge for parking. If they don't it's because they're charging enough for the rooms to make up for it. Which means very expensive. Copenhagen is very much a city of cyclists, pedestrians and public transport. If you frive, you've got be constantly aware of the cyclists/cycle lanes, as well as getting around the one way and sometimes twisty roads.

Given the expense of parking in Copenhagen and paying for the Øresund Bridge, you might be better off taking the train to and from Goteborg and renting a car there. It might well be cheaper for car rental if you are only in one country and outside the capital.

Remember that fuel is comparitively VERY expensive in Europe, so you might want to research the costs and see if it might be more enjoyable and cost effective to do some of the trip (to Goteborg or further) by train so you can enjoy the sights. The train to Goteborg isn't the fastest, but has great views over the water.

As to B&B's - that kind of arrangement is not very common in Copenhagen or urban Scandinavia. I think Rick's book mentions a few, but most are just a room in someone's house with shared facilities. You could try the WonderfulCopenhagen website (official tourist website), which has an accomodation finder with quite good descriptions of the room and facilities. Otherwise, you might have more luck (and better parking) further out in the suburban areas.

Have fun!
Kate
Scotland Thu 02/15/2007

Rome street market
In May 2001, we were in Rome on a Wednesday and came across a wonderful street market. It was full of locals and sold mostly produce, meat, cheese, etc. If I remember correctly it was in the vicinity of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Colosseum, but I can't remember exactly where it was located. It may have been near or around the perimeter of a park.

Does anyone have any information about this street market? Some friends will be in Rome next month and they want to visit the market.
Doberry
USA Thu 02/15/2007

Credit-Card for Miles
Capital One has a rewards card with miles earned toward any arline (you may want to check their website for details). Others have also posted on this site last year that they do not charge any FEEs for over-seas charges (not even the 1% Visa/MC fee - and no 2% bank fee). Some specific arilines have better "start up" bonus - like 20k miles. That may help you get free/upgrades faster too - but it helps to have an idea where you want to go to make sure they have lots of flights there. Have fun.
TMB
CA USA Thu 02/15/2007

Hotel near Naples Airport
Hello seasoned travelers! We are spending time in Sorrento soon and flying out of Naples. Alitalia has changed our itinerary and now we must take an early flight out of Naples. Are there any decent hotels near the Naples airport? Do any of them offer a shuttle service? If not, what's the best way to get to the airport from the hotel (we've heard horror stories about taxi scams)? Thanks for your help!
Brian
NY USA Thu 02/15/2007

Best credit card to accumulate free miles
I'm planning a trip to Europe for the summer of 2008. Which credit card is best for accumulating free travel miles? My strategy would be to charge as much as I can (and pay it off immediately) to accumulate points. I don't know where I'll be traveling, so don't want to be tied to a particular airline.
Gary <email>
Cary, NC USA Thu 02/15/2007

Visa Check Card
Ah, so it is...

Which brings me back to my original question: Does anyone know the average ATM fee in southern Wales?
John H. Harris <email>
Jamestown, NY USA Wed 02/14/2007

B&Bs OUTSIDE EDINBURGH
Do a google search for “Edinburgh B&B”. You will find many of them listed.

You can read about the room rates and locations. Some will show you a map of the location.
H.A.D.
DALLAS, TX USA Wed 02/14/2007

SCANDINAVIA
My wife and I rented a car in Stockholm and drove to Oslo, the Fjords, Goteborg, Copenhagen and back to Stockholm. We were 80 at the time.

We stayed in Formele1.com (where parking is free) which has ideal rooms, but the baths are down the hall. So I can’t help you with B&Bs. Parking is free.

I have read various reports on parking at hotels. Some charge and some don’t .

But if you do a google.com search for “hotels Copenhagen” or other towns you will find information about scores of hotels. Their web pages will give you room rates, amenities, and parking fees.

If you can’t find these web pages, get someone to help you. Go to your public library and ask for help.
KARL ><>
USA Wed 02/14/2007

Staithes & Whitby
You didn't say where you were driving from. But >IF< you're driving from York, let me say that you should at least drive to Whitby which will take you about an hour and fortyfive minutes using the A64 via Norton on Derwent and Pickering..The scenery enroute is lovely, and will partially take you across the Yorkshire moors.. There is much to see in Whitby including Captain Cook's house,and the old church on top of the hill.Great view from up there by the way. If you like fish and chips, the Magpie cafe on the harbour wall is extremely popular, but well worth the wait. We experienced no problems with finding parking close to the harbour. Staithes is a small and very old fishing village just North of Whitby, and parking can be a problem there, as there is only one narrow street leading down to the waterfront. Have a nice trip. Colin.
Colin
Seattle., USA Wed 02/14/2007

Scandinavia
Hello, I am not very computer literate so please bear with me. My wife and I are planning a trip to Scandinavia and we need all of the help that we can get. We are not very young but we are throwing caution to the wind.

Weplan on flying to Copenhagen. From there we are renting a car. We will be going from Copenhagen, north to Goteborg Sweden, Oslo, Bergen, south alomg the coast to Kristansand, Fredericia and back to Copenhagen.

We need info on two major topics. First we would like Bed & Breakfast's with private BATHS. If thats not available next would be hotels. Another big question is that I cannot find any info on parking cars at hotels. Do they charge or is there no parking?

I would sincerely appriciate any help that we could get.

Thank You Very Much Harry gordodi@juno.com
Harry <email>
Melrose, Fl. USA Wed 02/14/2007

Croatia to Budapest
We are traveling in Eastern Europe and Croatia for a month, mid-May to mid-June. At the end of our trip, we need to return to Budapest from Croatia. We are trying to book on Wizz Air, but their website has denied our credit card for several successive tries, for no apparent reason. I cannot find a travel agent that will book on Wizz Air. Any suggestions on how to book on Wizz Air from the United States? Any suggestions on alternative travel?
Joyce <email>
Minneapolis, MN USA Wed 02/14/2007

Night Trains
Does anybody have any info on the night trains between Prague-Krakow, and Krakow-Budapest? How long in advance should these tickets be prurchased? We are planning on using these, but do not want to be tied down with reservations long in advance.
Joe <email>
Gig Harbor, WA USA Wed 02/14/2007

B&B's outside of Edinburgh
I am looking for a nice B&B on the outskirts of Edinburgh, preferably cheaper than those Rick lists in his book for downtown Edinburgh. Any recommendations?
Pam <email>
McPherson, KS USA Wed 02/14/2007

Late arrival in London
I'm arriving in London around 10pm. should I book with a chain hotel that has a 24 hour desk? or will the budget B&Bs be able to accomodate me?
Wes <email>
Honolulu, Hawaii USA Wed 02/14/2007

???Central Europe CAR vs. RAIL???
Should we rent a car or buy train tickets for our Central Europe trip? My wife and I are flying into Munich and doing a roundtrip to Prague-Krakow-Budapest-Vienna-and through Bavaria, back to Munich. Three weeks from mid-April to mid-May. What would be cheaper, faster, and funner? Also any tips on rentals or driving in this part of Europe would be helpful.
Jared <email>
Tacoma, WA USA Wed 02/14/2007

Student ID Card for Discounts
Our family is traveling to London and France this May. My daughter (17) is a homeschooler who takes courses at a local university as part of their early studies program. Is she eligible for student discounts and will her University ID card (no photo) be suffient, or will she need the International Student Identity Card (ISIC)? If so, is the ISIC worth getting in terms of cost savings? Otherwise, she's considered an adult according to most ticket prices.
Cindy <email>
Westbrook, ME USA Wed 02/14/2007

euros or lire
just take euros
mark
USA Wed 02/14/2007

euros or turkish lires
I am going on a meditterenean cruise in May. Will be in Turkey only one day. Should I bother to exchange euros to turkish lire or will they take euros there.
Brenda
Canada Wed 02/14/2007

Parking in Pisa
Pat in PA. Thanks for the information about parking in Pisa. We were going to stop via train on way to Orvieto but had problem picking up rental car on a weekend so getting car out of Cinque Terre on a Monday.
Bonnie
USA Wed 02/14/2007

Vincennes, Paris
Does anyone know anything about this neighborhood? I'm considering staying in a time-share/studio apartment there, but know nothing about this location. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks!!
Erika
Seattle, WA USA Wed 02/14/2007

re: Rail Pass
Paul - yes the rail passes work for the full day - so you can jump on and off all day long 99% of the public rails. (unless its a special or private line - more rare). The conductors will check it in the AM - and then for the rest of the day, the other conductors will just look at it (and your passport) and usually say thanks and move on - since the first conductor usually puts his mark on it. Just make sure you fill in the date for that day before before they come and ask (pref before you get on or right when you sit down). This should be the case all over europe - but always check out the RS-Railpass info on this website and in his book (which im sure you will take with you! :p

have fun!
TMB
Newportbeach, CA USA Wed 02/14/2007

Parking in Pisa
There is a good size car park right accross the street from the Campo dei Miracoli and the leaning tower on the north edge of town. Couldn't be easier. I believe it's about 1 euro an hour.
pat
pa USA Wed 02/14/2007

Rail Pass question
Looking at getting a rail pass.... planning on traveling with a partner so we are looking at the flexpass.... this will be for france and spain. We are planning on three major days of train travel, one day involving a change in trains. We are allowed four days of travel does that include unlimited travel it a day? In other words for our 4th day could we go barcelona to Figuras, see the dali museume and then return later in the day on the pass?
paul
USA Wed 02/14/2007

re: Clock Tower in Venice (Torre dell'Orologio)
Thanks, Fiona! I guess it would make sense that we'd actually have to pay for the tour. :-) I appreciate the help.
Michelle
Denver, CO USA Wed 02/14/2007

Parking near Pisa
We will now have a rental car from LaSpezia to Orvieto. We will be in Pisa with a car and not by train as planned.

Where is a good place to park the car in/near Pisa just to get a picture then leave town? Thanks.
Bonnie <email>
USA Wed 02/14/2007

Visa Check Card
The problem is that not all merchants in Europe (and especially the UK) have hardware that can read magnetic strip US debit cards. Most supermarkets and gas stations only have card-reading machines that will accept a debit card that has a smart chip embedded in it; there is no way for the clerk to override this. There are still some merchants that have the older magnetic strip equipment, and if you come across them your US debit/ATM/check card will work fine. I to avoid the hassle I withdraw all of my spending money via ATM machines; its much easier.
Michael Schneider <email>
NY USA Wed 02/14/2007

Paris to Florence
I agree about flying EasyJet from Paris to Florence. We did the same thing in Nov. 2005 and it worked well. We had a late evening flight, got to Pisa, took the bus to Florence. It went well, in spite of the fact that I was nervous about getting into Florence so late at night (my husband wasn't). We had a hotel near Santa Maria Novella church, and did encounter quite a few people out and about that time of night (approx. 10 pm). Not being able to find the exact street our hotel was on, I approached three young ladies and asked where our street was. They were very nice and the only thing they said was that I had pronounced the street wrong! It was almost comical, but after my initial "faux pas" in pronunciation, they showed us which direction to go and we found the hotel. Despite that, the flight and bus ride were definitely the way to go. We also flew RyanAir from Florence to Frankfurt and it went well. We also took a bus from Frankfurt (Hahn airport) to our hotel in the downtown area of Frankfurt and it went fine. Hope your trip goes well also.
USA Wed 02/14/2007

Re: Paris to Florence
Cheapest way from Paris to Florence is with Easy Jet @ www.Easyjet.com, you can fly from Paris Orly to Pisa, and then take the easy jet bus into Florence. The bus journey is around an hour, and you can book the bus on easy jet's site.

This flight does get in late around 8pm, your other option would be to take a 12 hour overnight train, which I do not recommend as I did that train from Paris to Venice, and it was not a good experience. You will have a hard time finding another airline under $500 for this journey, you should have no problems with easy jet.
Canada Tue 02/13/2007

Visa Check Card
Actually, Visa Check cards are accepted wherever Visa Cards are accepted, because they can be run as if they were credit cards.

Per Wikipedia:

In the United States and Australia, offline debit transactions are usually referred to at point of sale as "credit" transactions even though no credit is actually involved. This is because they are processed through the Visa or MasterCard networks in the exact same manner as actual credit card transactions. Since they are handled like any other Visa or MasterCard, U.S. and Australian offline debit cards are also accepted worldwide at virtually all merchants that accept U.S. or Australian credit cards of the corresponding brand, even if they do not accept their own country's debit cards.
John H. Harris <email>
Jamestown, NY USA Tue 02/13/2007

Paris to Florence
Please advise on best and cheapest way to fly from Paris to Florence. Thank you
Sue
OH USA Tue 02/13/2007

re: Clock Tower in Venice (Torre dell'Orologio)
This is part of the email reply I received from MKT_Musei last November:

The visit of the clock tower is not included in the museum pass: the Full Price is 12 euro (including booking fee and expert guide) Holders of this ticket get free admission to the Correr Museum. For book the ticket of clock tower : - by phone +39415209070 or by website www.museiciviciveneziani.it Please you can find all information at the link http://www.museiciviciveneziani.it/frame.asp?sezione=biglietti.

Each tour is for a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 12 people
Fiona
NYC, Tue 02/13/2007

re: Clock Tower in Venice (Torre dell'Orologio)
It is reopened but NOT covered by the Museum pass. Buy tickets online or in the Correr Museum (don't try to do it over the phone-- the people who answered the phone were not very helpful). Buy in advance-- it was sold out when I tried to go.
Fiona
NYC, Tue 02/13/2007

Staithes and Whitby
Hello! You have all been so helpful so far that I thought I would try again.

We are looking into driving to Staithes or Whitby near York in England, and I was wondering if anyone has done this. Rick mentions that Staithes is difficult to drive to because of the trucks and parking, and I was wondering if anyone could say whether it is worth the work or not. Also, if we only have the one day, would it be better to go to these towns or focus on the North York Moors? Thanks for your help!
Jennifer Herbison <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 02/13/2007

Visa Debit Card
Unfortunately, that only holds true in the US. The technology is different over here - different chips - so you can't use a debit card for point of sale purchases. Same as I can't use my Scottish debit card in the US as a debit card. You can use it to get cash though.

Kate
Scotland Tue 02/13/2007

Sharing digital photos while still on trip
Hi,

How do people send back pictures during your trip?

In the past [late 90s-2004 or so], cybercafes had USB/CD/floppy ports, and you could upload pictures, etc. Some of the proprietors asked to scan your disks first, but other than that, no problems. On the early trips, I had a Sony Mavica with floppy disks and was able to load them. Later, I used my USB-connected memory card reader to load them.

However, on my last trip [2005], every cybercafe I found had "dumb terminal" type computers, having only a monitor, keyboard and mouse available: no floppy/CD/USB ports. Not seeing how I could send any pictures, I made my cybercafe visits few and far between, and posted my pictures once I returned home.

Am I missing something? Is there another method that people are using to upload pictures to the web or attaching them to emails?
ABQ Hugh <email>
Albuquerque, NM USA Tue 02/13/2007

Clock Tower in Venice (Torre dell'Orologio)
Does anyone know if the Clock Tower in Venice is open yet, and if so how to make reservations for the tour? The closest thing I've found is an option to buy a ticket with reservation through www.tickitaly.com, but then you have to pay full price for the Clock Tower (which per Rick's Italy book should be covered by the Museum Card or Museum Pass, which we're planning on buying). Thanks!
Michelle
Denver, CO USA Tue 02/13/2007

Hotels in Anger France
Looking for Hotels in Angers France, have found two hotels: De' France and D' Ajou. if anyone has stayed in them and has a review please let me kow or if they have stayed else where in Angers let me know as well

Merci'
Barry Resgonia
San Diego, CA USA Tue 02/13/2007

Anti-Americanism
I was in Germany last summer for the World Cup, on days I would wear my US team jersey I did get some nasty comments from a few of the locals about US foreign policy. I never took it personally. The irony was that I agreed with most what they were shouting at me :) It's better to remember 99.9% of the other locals who were nothing but kind and helpful.
Michael Schneider <email>
NY USA Tue 02/13/2007

Website Rome rental idea
RS suggested cross-pollinate.com looks like a fabulous site. I love the locator and availability buttons - and the shorter stays (2-3 nights OK in some)
Julie
Kenmore, WA USA Mon 02/12/2007

Golf clubs
Sandy~~why not just check in your golf clubs along with your luggage? Shipping them will be expensive. You could just rent clubs at the courses you are going to play at.
Ohio USA Mon 02/12/2007

Scott--Summer Travel, Vienna, Budapest, etc.
I've recently visited Vienna, Salzburg, Munich & Krakow. A Graffiti line poster recommended the Hotel Polski in Krakow to me. I loved that place! I plan to visit Budapest, Prague & Vienna this summer. I hope to stay at the Hotel Astoria in Budapest (haven't contacted them yet.) After that my first stop in looking for hotels wil be Rick Steves Eastern Europe book.
Karen <email>
MN USA Mon 02/12/2007

Re: France-Barcelona
You could take a night train from Nice to Port Bou and a regional train from there to Barcelona.

There are no budget airlines that fly directly between Nice and Barcelona. You could fly from Nice to Paris CDG on easyJet and then from CDG to Barcelona on Vueling.
Tim <email>
Minot, BD USA Mon 02/12/2007

re: Anti-Americanism in France
We have family in France and visit there every year. They aren't so much anti-American but more anti-American government. As a previous poster mentioned, they tend to separate us from the policies of our government.
Julie
USA Mon 02/12/2007

Re: Gare de Bercy
I took an overnight train from Paris to Venice from Gare de Bercy and had no problems. There are a few stairs a the metro stop but nothing to diffcult to manage, and I had a large suitcase.

The metro stop is one block from the station, once you exit the station head to the right down the escaltors and go straight one block it's no more than a 2-3 min walk with luggage. From what I can recall I saw very few taxis outside the station. You should have no problems using the metro as long as your hotel is near a station or taxi stand.

If you want to take a taxi just look for one of the taxi signs along the street if you wait there a few minutes a taxi will come along to get you.
Cora <email>
Canada Mon 02/12/2007

Re: Gare de Bercy Arrival
I can't comment on the availability of taxis at Gare de Bercy. However, if you're packing light, it will be relatively easy for you to take the Metro from Gare de Bercy to the Rue Cler area. Take Metro line 6 (direction Charles de Gaulle Etoile) to La Motte Piquet Grenelle. Transfer to Metro line 8 (direction Creteil-Prefecture) and take it to either Ecole Militaire (first stop) or La Tour Maubourg (second stop). Visit www.ratp.fr to download and print a Metro/RER map for central Paris.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Mon 02/12/2007

For Kate in Scotland
Well, my debit card is a Visa Check Card, and one of the "selling points" is that it's accepted wherever Visa Cards are, so it shouldn't be a problem... so long as I keep track of the exchange rate.

Thanks for the clarification.
John H. Harris <email>
Jamestown, NY USA Mon 02/12/2007

Schwarzwaldbahn
No arrangements are necessary. These are a regional trains; there are no reservations possible. Just go up to a ticket counter and purchase you tickets, for examples, Hausach to Triberg or Offenburg to Donaueschingen via Hausach.
<email>
USA Mon 02/12/2007

Kirk: Anit-Americanism
We were in Paris in November of 2006 and experienced zero anti-American sentiment. It was our first trip to France and had heard the sterotype of rude, American hating Parisians. To the contrary, we thought the Parisians were the friendliest, most approachable people we encountered in Europe (not including the Irish who are awesome). So don't worry about it.
S&S
Sonoma County, CA USA Mon 02/12/2007

Sandy re Golf Clubs
Fed Ex would be my suggestion.
Bob <email>
Gettysburg, PA USA Mon 02/12/2007

Gare de Bercy Arrival
Will arrive on Rome to Paris overnight train at Gare de Bercy. As first time visitors to Paris, is it better to take a taxi to hotel (in Rue Cler area) rather than get our Carte Orange Metro card while still toting luggage? another website also mentioned lack of taxis at Gare de Bercy and thought it better to walk to Gare de Lyon for taxi - any comments? thanks
Andy <email>
Vancouver, WA USA Mon 02/12/2007

Web site info
I am looking how I to make arrangements for travel on the Schwarzwaldbahn (Black Forest Railway)

Thank you---------
Don holly
State College, PA USA Mon 02/12/2007

Stage of Tour de France
I will be travelling through Europe this summer from Brugge to Paris and noticed that it will be possible to see a stage of the tour. Has anyone ever done this? Are the trains more crowded? Are there fesitvals or shuttles available? Is it obvious where the observation points are on the route? Any info would be appreciated.
Chris <email>
OK USA Mon 02/12/2007

Strasbourg-Venice night train question
First, I don't think a France/Italy regional pass will do it. I can find only two night train connections between Strasbourg and Venice; one goes through Switzerland, the other goes through Switzerland and Germany, so you will need a Eurail Select 3 country pass as a minimum.

If you take the train through Germany, you can use a Germany/Switzerland/Italy 3 country select pass and point to point tickets from Strasbourg to Germany.

Also, before you get too committed to a rail pass, make sure you know where you are going to find reservations for the night train. You can book reservations for NZ 301 from the Nachtzugreise website, but that train goes through Germany, so you would have to have a four country select pass. The other night train starts in Switzerland, so you probably have to arrange through Swiss Rail for your reservations. You can't do that online; you might be able to do it by email, but it might require a call to Switzerland.

Of course you can always make the reservation through RailEurope, but they tend to be pricey. In any case, make sure you add the cost of the reservation to the cost of the rail pass when comparing to point to point costs.
<email>
USA Mon 02/12/2007

Anti-Americanism in France
I was in Paris in October 2006 and everything was fine. My feeling is most people separate the policies of a government from the people.
NYC, USA Mon 02/12/2007

Anti-Americanism in France
Has anyone been to France recently? I have heard about an increase in anti-American sentiment and wanted to know if anyone can verify this. While I have been to Europe several times since the beginning of the Iraq war, and have experienced very little anti-Americanism, I just wanted to know if I should be a little more prepared this time around.
Kirk
Chicago, IL USA Mon 02/12/2007

lodging for 5 in Italy, a train question
My husband, three daughters and I are planning a 15-day trip to Italy in late May. I am getting ready to book hotels/apts. and would like some advice on what the best way to house 5 might be -- a triple and a double, or are there more economical ways to house 5. We will be staying in Venice, Vernazza, Florence and Rome. Also, with an overnight trip from Strasbourg, France to Venice, any tips on whether a eurail regional France-Italy pass would be a better deal than buying individual trip tickets for 5? Thanks!
Nancy <email>
Nashville, Tenn. USA Mon 02/12/2007

Europe by Car
We used Europe by Car in September 2005, and are using them again in March. We have also used AutoEurope and Europcar. We have never had any problems with any of them.

I guess I decided to use Europe by Car for my next trip is that it is the only agency I have used where I actually got the model of car I requested.
Doberry
USA Mon 02/12/2007

Men's gifts
I would like some suggestions of what would be a good "man's" host gift that is small and packable. I make scarves for the women and they love them but don't think the men would wear one. ha! Also, is LaSpezia a large city? Will be picking up a rental car there after leaving Cinque Terre.
Bonnie <email>
USA Mon 02/12/2007

france-barcelona
what is the best way to get from Southern france such as Provence or Nice to Barcelona? Open to where we can leave from.
bluedenim <email>
USA Mon 02/12/2007

Re: Where to Go for two weeks
Mix of small and large towns, Mountains, and even throw in a beach. Try hopping over the Alps to the southern side, Northern Italy. Way more than two weeks worth to do, but the Dolomite region (you'll think you are in Switzerland, down to German being more prevalent than Italian), Florence, Tuscany, and the Cinque Terra will give you all you need; or maybe Venice, the lakes region, etc.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 02/12/2007

Re: Airline Consolidators
I have used two consolidators in the past, www.airgorilla.com and www.airlineconsolidator.com They have good search engines, do open jaw, and even can assemble itineraries from non-allied carriers.
Paul <email>
IA USA Mon 02/12/2007

Rome Hotel
Mary, Why don't you buy a copy of Rick Steves Rome or Italy. His recommendations are always dependable and the sales of his books is what supports this FREE web site.
Charles M. Luther
USA Sun 02/11/2007

Leasing a car through Europe By Car
Hi! We are planning a trip around Great Britain, and I am looking into leasing a car through Europe By Car. Has anyone done this before? Did it work out well for you? This sounds great and a little too good to be true! Please let me know what you think. Thanks!
Jennifer Herbison <email>
Seattle, WA USA Sun 02/11/2007

shipping golf clubs
Any advice on shipping my golf clubs to Wales from the US and then returning them from Ireland? Thanks, Sandy
SandyM
Indian Wells, CA USA Sun 02/11/2007

Re: Disoriented
Because of the way the river flows. The Danube flows south through Budapest on its way to the Black Sea. You always determine left and right banks as you look downstream. So the Buda side is the right bank....the Pest side is the left bank. Similar to Paris....the Left Bank is the left bank of the Seine as you look downstream....as the river flows towards the Channel.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 02/11/2007

London Theatre Tickets
Using Rick's instructions, we bought half-price tickets for 3 big shows in London at the TIX booth in Leicester Square the day of the performance. Other than the free "Sleeping Beauty" tix I scored for the Ballet (great American "Know-Who"), it was the best deal we got in the UK.
jr
Roseville, CA USA Sun 02/11/2007

Deborah Coleman
The 3 oz limit per bottle in 1 ziplock bag is for carry on baggage. Take enough to get you to a store wherever you are going, and buy more. You will more than likely find your brand available! Europeans wash their hair, brush their teeth and use lotion as well - we in the US often pay a pretty penny for just such Euro liquids.
jr
Roseville, CA USA Sun 02/11/2007

Summer Travel
We are planning our trip to Europe for the month of July. We are flying in to Muich and out of Berlin. Along the way, we are planning on seeing Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest, Krakow, and Prague. Any tips and advice on where to stay, what to see or other places to visit is appreciated.
Scott
Canada Sun 02/11/2007

Cinque Terre car park
I have to go to La Spezia from Vernazza to pick up a rental car then drive it back to Monterosso or Vernazza to park it for the night. What suggestions do you have to park it "safely" overnight and what town should I leave it in? We are staying in Vernazza.
Bonnie <email>
USA Sun 02/11/2007

I'm disoriented
Anybody know why the Buda side of the Danube is called the "right bank" and the Pest side is called the "left"?
Fiona
NYC, Sun 02/11/2007

Travel to Fallo Italy
We're trying to find out how to get to the town of Fallo in Abruzzo, Italy. We're looking for public transport (buses, trains) from Castel di Sangro, Italy. Any ideas?
Eileen <email>
Hull, MA USA Sun 02/11/2007

Astral Tours - London
Astral Tours in London offers a customized England tour of Bath, Stonehenge & Lacock/Castle Combe. You have to pick one town of the latter. If any of you have taken this particular tour did you choose Lacock or Castle Combe & was there any particular reason why? I have to choose between the two & as I know nothing about either town any recommendations would be appreciated.
Stephanie Norris <email>
Al USA Sun 02/11/2007

To: Hope
I have used Gotoday.com on several trips to Europe.
Jeff
NJ USA Sun 02/11/2007

Train to Cinque Terre
There are two main stations that have trains that go into the Cinque Terre, the norther station is Genova it's closest to Monterroso but far from Florence. Your best bet is to train from Florence to La Spezia (central)and then switch to a smaller train at La Spezia to travel into the Cinque Terre.

Most trains from Florence to La Spezia also stop in Pisa so check out www.trenitalia.com to find a direct train from Florence to La Spezia. When you get to La Spezia make sure you get the right train into Cinque Terre as some trains don't stop at all the towns, some just go striaght to Monterroso, you can pick up a schedule at the station.
Cora <email>
Canada Sun 02/11/2007

Train to Cinque Terre
Hi Everyone! I am trying to find the train route that I would need to take to get from Florence to the Cinque Terre. I would like to make as few stops as possible. Can anyone provide station names or train route numbers to do this? I have looked at a few websites and I can't seem to find the stations in the Cinque Terre. I appreciate your wisdom.
Tina B <email>
Houston, TX USA Sun 02/11/2007

2 weeks...
I second the Austria suggesstion. It would be beautiful. But the UK would also be wonderful. Consider London, York, Edinburgh, Inverness, Stratford Upon Avon. That's the 2 week trip my husband and I are doing this summer.
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA Sun 02/11/2007

Consolidator
I read an article by Rick in Houston CHronicle today. He suggests looking for a consolidator for better ticket fares.

How do I find a legitimate one? Anyone have any experience with one?

Thanks.
Hope <email>
Houston, TX USA Sun 02/11/2007

CC
Perhaps your friend was referring to the fact that in many European countries, credit cards have chips and you use a four digit pin card instead of signing for purchases.

However, almost all stores will allow signatures when dealing with foreign credit cards without European compatible chips/without a chip. The only trouble may be with small stores that don't normally have a lot of tourist traffic. And often smaller shops won't take credit cards because of the expense to them. So it's always good to have a bit of spare cash on hand.

Best to have Visa or Mastercard as AMEX is not nearly as widely accepted over here.

Kate
Scotland Sun 02/11/2007

where to go for two weeks
vienna - salzburg- innsbruck you will never forget it.
sam
tor, USA Sun 02/11/2007

Where to Go For Two Weeks
Ireland!! Hiking. Music. Shopping. Islands. Beauty. Historic sights. Some of the most friendly people on the planet. And on and on. You can not go wrong.
Kim
USA Sun 02/11/2007

Where to go for 2 weeks
I need help planning a 2 week vacation with my 15 year old daughter. We're looking ahead to summer 2008. We spent 2 weeks in Germany (Munich, Rothenburg, Fussen) and Switzerland (Lauterbrunnen)this past summer and it was perfect. The combination of city, small towns, and mountains was ideal. Any recommendations for where we should visit in summer of 2008 for a similar type of experience? We'd go back to Germany and Switzerland but we want to visit someplace new to us. We're not big museum/history people. Thanks for your suggestions.
Gary <email>
Cary, NC USA Sun 02/11/2007

Milan Hotel
After a long plane ride from Seattle to Rome and then quickly hopping on the train to Milan, we need to find an inexpensive hotel near the train station for a short night's stay in Milan. Our real vacation starts the next day at Lake Como. Any suggestions?
Bob <email>
Tacoma, Wa USA Sun 02/11/2007

Left luggage suggestion
Catherine, If you do decide to use a "left luggage" place at a train station, be sure to see what time they close. Don't depend on what a posted sign says, especially in Italy. They may be closed when you show up to claim your bag!!
USA Sun 02/11/2007

elderly disable traveling
My elderly aunt and uncle have offered to pay my way, first class to take them to England for two weeks in September. I am a seasoned traveler but very concerned about mobility issues; my uncle is legally blind and my aunt has problems walking for very far. I just bought Rick's new accessible Europe book so hope that will help. We want to do 4 days in London and they have relatives in Birmingham. Help! Mini tour bus ideas? what about a couple days in Wales? I don't feel comfortable driving, I always use mass transit when I "back door" myself.
Chere <email>
Kelso, WA USA Sun 02/11/2007

Re: Keeping contact by cell phone
Gord.....check out United Mobile at http://www.united-mobile.com/cms/website/index.php?lang=2&idcatside=26. I've used their service for a couple of years now and been very happy with it, especially their low rates calling back home to Canada.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 02/11/2007

Keeping contact by cell phone
I have a quad band, unlocked cellphone I will be taking to Europe. We will be travelling in vehicles with another couple who have a similar cellphone. We want to be able to contact each other in Germany, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Rep, Slovenia, Croatia, and Italy. Can I get 1 sim to do all? or 1 SIM per country or??? Thanks
Gord Pope <email>
North Vancouver, BC Canada Sat 02/10/2007

city pass for Florence, Italy
Has anyone found a multi-museum pass for Florence?
Terry <email>
San Marcos, Ca USA Sat 02/10/2007

TRAIN STATION AND AIR TERMINAL LOCKERS
Catherine: The lockers in RR stations and Air terminals throughout Italy and France vary in size from one town to another.

I have found it impossible to know the size until I get to the locker and try to fit my luggage into it.

If it won't fit, I often have to find a “Left Luggage “ counter to leave it at.
MARY <><
USA Sat 02/10/2007

Frankfurt transportation
Absolutely the best transportation is public rail (S-bahn). The train leaves the airport every 15 minutes and takes 12 minutes, so it takes 12-27 minutes depending on when you get to the platform.

How long it takes you to get off the plane, go through passport control, go through customs if you checked luggage, buy your ticket, etc, that is another question.

The S-bahn leaves from the regional bahnhof which is underground, across the street from Terminal 1. You get to it by going down stairs just inside the streetside wall of the terminal.
<email>
USA Sat 02/10/2007

Paris Museum Pass
See the official site at http://www.parismuseumpass.fr/flash/hp_en.html for all the info you'll need. Passes now are for 2, 4, and 6 days, and the site lists available sales locations, sites that are covered, etc. Invaluable to help slip past lines, especially at the Musee D'Orsay. Make sure, though, there are enough items on the list that interest you enough to make it worth your while to buy, say, a four-day pass.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sat 02/10/2007

Frankurt transportation
How much time should I allow between the Frankfurt airport that is away from the city and the main train station?

Best mode of transportation?
Jennifer <email>
USA Sat 02/10/2007

Train Station / Airport Lockers
Curious to know the size of the lockers? If we arrive at the airport or train station with our luggage and want to store our luggage while we go sight-seeing, need to know how large the lockers are? Will they hold a 21” size upright luggage? What’s the largest size luggage a locker will hold? Traveling to Italy and Paris.

Thanks for your advice.
Catherine <email>
Franklin, WI USA Sat 02/10/2007

Paris Museum Pass
My wife and her friends will be in Paris in March,What type of museum pass should we get? And where do we buy one? We are looking at a 5 day pass.Thanks for your help
Gary <email>
Pleasanton, ca. USA Sat 02/10/2007

Travel in Norway (Stavanger to Haugesund)
We will be traveling to Norway for the last two weeks of May. We are visiting family part of the time, so our itinerary is not very flexible. Our schedule is as follows: 2 days in Oslo then flight to Haugesund, 5 days in Haugesund/Karmoy (visiting family), 2 days in Stavanger/Preikestolen (my Aunt and Uncle are driving us from Haugesund to Preikestolen, and then dropping us off in Stavanger), and 3 days in Bergen. Here is my dilemma: We have already booked hotel in Stavanger for the nights of Friday May 25th and Saturday May 26th. Our plan was to leave Stavanger early on Sunday the 27th via ferry in order to meet up again with my Aunt and Uncle in Kopervik or Haugesund. We’ll then drive from Kopervik or Haugesund up to Bergen. However, according to what I have researched for ferry availability on http://www.hsd.no/upload/Flaggruten.pdf, the earliest departing ferry on Sunday isn’t until 12:00. Do we have any other earlier options? I also looked at the bus schedule on www.nor-way.no (Nor-Way Bussekspress) and from what I understand, there is no service on Sunday from Stavanger to the Haugesund area. Help!
Jennifer <email>
Lynnwood, WA USA Sat 02/10/2007

RE: Websites for Rome Rentals
We used Rentalinrome 18 months ago...no problems....good prices. They have a rep meet you at the apartment. But make it clear to the company you want someone who knows the neighbourhood...nearby markets, etc.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sat 02/10/2007

RE: Credit Card
Was it an Amex card? They have four digit CVC numbers, sometimes known as a CVVC number. But, of course, those are only needed for on-line transactions. Having a card in North America that won't work in Europe seems to run counter to the credit card company claims that they're "honoured everywhere." No mention of such changes on the Visa or Mastercard sites, so you should be OK
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Sat 02/10/2007

Websites for Rome Rentals
I'm researching places to stay in Rome - apartment rentals and hotels. I've come across two websites - otel.com and rentalinrome.com. Does anyone know anything about either of these sites? Reliability, etc. Thanks.
Mary
CA USA Sat 02/10/2007

cc
thats what I thought too but was told it is some new thing needed to have a cc that is designed to be used in Europe.... news to me as well
paul
USA Sat 02/10/2007

cc
cvn number will do
norm
tor, USA Sat 02/10/2007

Re: Credit Card
Not sure what numbers you're talking about. Any credit card I've used has been swiped thru a card reader, just like here, and been accepted. Maybe ask your friend for more details.
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Sat 02/10/2007

credit card
a friend just told me that now when travelign in Europe you need to ensure that your CC has some sort of 4 digit code on the back, different than the CVN. what is this about
paul
USA Sat 02/10/2007

Re: Ryanair
I've flown Ryanair once and had no problem. As with any budget airline, be aware of luggage weight limits and strict check-in deadlines or you'll pay dearly. Read Ryanair's Web site carefully.

If you're going to return to Frankfurt overnight before catching your flight home, you won't have to worry about making a connection between Frankfurt-Hahn, which is a long way from Frankfurt, and the main Frankfurt airport.
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Sat 02/10/2007

Ryanair
I've traveled Europe before, but never used budget flights.

Should I have any concerns about Ryanair?

I have such a limited time and will be flying between Frankfurt and Krakow for just four days. My flights back to U.S. leave the next day.
Jennifer <email>
Midwest , USA Sat 02/10/2007

PARKING NEAR ROME
Lisa: I suggest you do a google search for “Rome Metro Map”. Look for a station at the end of a line on the North side of Rome.

Go there and look for a place to park. That is the way I found a parking place in Paris and it worked fine for the 3 days we were there.

All you have to do is find that station on a map and drive to it.

Be sure to write down the name of the line you take and the name of the station.
USA Fri 02/09/2007

Trams over Mount Blanc
We are planning a trip in June to Milan and then to Paris. My daughter wanted to take the tram over Mount Blanc into France. From there we could take the train to Paris. The problem is that we will have our luggage. Has anyone taken the tram from Italy to France and can you take your luggage on the tram?
Diane <email>
Burbank, CA USA Fri 02/09/2007

Italian Trains
Bonnie: Direct trains (no change) depart from Rome to Venice about hourly. On October 20, you should be able to purchase a same-day ticket for almost any train. No need to purchase in advance, unless you want to buy a discounted ticket for a specific time (should be some very good postings on discounted tickets - may be archived). From Venice to Cinque Terre is 6-7 hours with mulitple changes, whether you go through Florence or Milan. My suggestion would be to visit one of the Venice travel agencies recommended by Rick (Kele & Teo is good) and have them book tickets for you. In late October, booking a day or two in advance should be adequate.
Frank
Wilmington, DE USA Fri 02/09/2007

Parking Near Rome
Does anyone know of parking within 30 minutes from center of Rome that you can either take the train or the subway into the heart of the city.

We will be driving in from the Florence
Lisa
Lubbock, TX USA Fri 02/09/2007

Paris Sweet Home rentals??
Me and my sister are looking for an aparment to stay in for 1 week in Paris. THe cheapest apartment rental company i've come accross is http://www.parissweethome.com - so far an apartment for 2 is costing us about 325 euro for the week. Has anyone had any contact with or heard anything about this company - and and all information would be greatly appreciated! Thanks :)
Leanna <email>
Calgary, Albert Canada Fri 02/09/2007

RE: Greece with kids!
Joy, you're in luck. You want to celebrate Easter with the locals in Greece. This year (2007) Easter falls on the 8th of April in both Easter and Western churches. If you are not familiar with Orthodox customs, those customs can seem quite strange. You might want to do a bit of reading before hand. An interesting place to start is at http://www.goarch.org/ the website of the Greek Orthodox Church in America.
Michael <email>
Edmonton, Canada Fri 02/09/2007

Car Charger
All cars are 12V so your charger will work just fine.
Jeff
USA Fri 02/09/2007

Going to England this Spring. We will be renting a car to tour everywhere but London. Will I be able to charge my cell phone in the car or are they different from U.S. cars?
USA Fri 02/09/2007

Venice Airport
Indeed, the private taxis drop you off at the airport, but it is a little bit of a walk (maybe 1/4 mile or so) to the terminal--not bad. Last May I booked two taxis (through the hotel) to take my group of 17 to the airport. The group of college students made the walk in less than 10 minutes at a leisurely pace. Suggestion: tell the taxi to pick you up about 1/2 hour before you really want to leave. Ours were about 1/2 hour late in picking us up. Maybe it was just our luck, but it never hurts to be cautious.
JSC
Pittsburgh, PA USA Fri 02/09/2007

Milan hotel
Mini Hotel Aosta is right next to the station, where you can catch the airport bus. Check venere.com for prices.
Kathy <email>
Cary, NC USA Thu 02/08/2007

Re: Fargo, North Dakota
www.weather.com has the usual temps all year in a place.
USA Thu 02/08/2007

airport in Venice
The private water taxi drops you off AT the airport. It's hard to belive that the boat goes right up to luggage check in, but it does. It's Very early. You might see if there is a hotel close to the airport for the night stay before. We stayed on the Lido and had to get up at 3:00 am for a VERY early flight and the private water taxi took us directly to the airport. Too early for my taste!
Cathy
TX USA Thu 02/08/2007

RE: Early flight out of Venice
You could find all the information you could ever dream about on www.tripadvisor.com in the Venice Forum.
Tim
USA Thu 02/08/2007

Vatican tours
Hi, Has anyone done a Vatican tour? I only have 1 full day and 2 1/2 days in Rome and want to make the most of it. I want to see the Sistine Chapel and was in Rome last year but it was closed as we were there when the Pope died. Any suggestions?
Helen
Brighton, Vic Australia Thu 02/08/2007

Early flight out of Venice
Where is the Venice airport in relation to the city? We will be flying out of Venice on an early am flight and I've never been to the Venice airport before (we're flying into another European city). I'm wondering about the logistics of getting to the airport at 5 am. I know there is limited vaparetto service and we may need to hire a private water taxi, but what about the continued journey to the airport? Is there public transportation to the airport available early in the morning? Thanks for any help with this.
Sandy
USA Thu 02/08/2007

Re: Milan hotel
MaryAnne, Don't know if this will help you, but we flew into Milan last year. Our flight was delayed and we got in late. All public transportation had stopped running. Took a shuttle that took us into the city, but not to our hotel. We required a taxi to get our hotel. The place we were dropped by the shuttle was a little scary. Our hotel was near the train station, but we took a train to get to Rome so that was convenient for us. My experience was such that if I was getting in late and didn't have a desire to see the city I would stay near the airport. Good Luck.
USA Thu 02/08/2007

Canoeing in Amsterdam
Nancy, try this link: http://www.dynamic.holland.com/wsnsa.dll/searchsite/main.r?target=246&lngid=3&objsrt=9
Evelyn
USA Thu 02/08/2007

Need recommendation for Milan hotel
Sorry, I know others have asked, but I'm short on time to go back to search archives here...

Need a hotel convenient to main airport in Milan. OK if we have to stay in town, as long as it's easy to get to the airport to fly home. If you know Milan and can recommend a section best for transportation to airport - that would work too, I can find a hotel based on best "neighborhood" "area" to stay in.

Not sure if staying in the heart of Milan is best, or finding an outlying region.

thanks Rick's readers!
MaryAnne
Stevens Point, WI USA Thu 02/08/2007

B & B in Venice
Anybody use Cross Pollinate for B&B's in Venice? We used them in Rome last summer with a few problems. We are wondering specifically about Ca'Satriano?
Debbie <email>
Plano, TX USA Thu 02/08/2007

Re: Euros vs Credit Card
Well; you will have an exchange rate regardless. To get Euros or use Credit card you will have an exchange rate and fees, you need to know what those are to make a decision; I don't think any will be left "unknown" or a surprise. Used to be cheap for me, no fees, just the ATM interbank rate of exchange, and never an ATM fee in Europe. Now I do have an international transaction fee, plus more European ATMs are charging fees, etc. Same thing with Credit cards, but still, no surprises. Now I will say that if you pay by Credit card, pay in Euros, rather than the hotel converting to Dollars for you, that is where your risk for funky conversion rates exist. More and more places seem to be picking up on this "for your convenience".
Paul <email>
IA USA Thu 02/08/2007

Your Favorite Places for Food in Paris
I am looking for recommendations for places in Paris that serve good versions of the following at reasonable prices: foie gras terrine, cassoulet, choucroute garnie.
Joe <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Thu 02/08/2007

euros
pay in euros as creditcard rate can vary tremendously.
sam
can USA Thu 02/08/2007

Paying hotel in Euros
Would there be any benefit in paying your hotel bill with Euros vs. putting it on a credit card and deal with an unknown exchange rate.
USA Thu 02/08/2007

Cars
Has anyone rented or drove a Smart Car before? I am trying to decide between a Smart Car and the Renault Clio. I will be driving in Provence with one other person. Wondering if a Smart Car has enough power for this area and any space for luggage. Thank you
Stefanie <email>
London, ON Canada Thu 02/08/2007

Kinda Cold or Really Cold?
Does anyone know what kind of temperatures I should expect in late March/Early April for Northern Europe (From Oslo to Paris)? I'm from Fargo, N.D., so cold temps don't scare me. I just want to know what I should prepare for.
Britta
Fargo, ND USA Thu 02/08/2007

Madrid
In Madrid, which is a non-stop traffic jam and one helluva place, there is a great hotel just across the street from Atocha terminal-- Hotel Mediodia. Next door is Reina Sofia Museum,Prado is 5 blocks away,two terrific parks w/in walking distance and metro at end of the block, some 100 ft away from Mediodia door. Cost was about €70,cafes convenient.
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Thu 02/08/2007

Re: 10 day euro trip
In July, my sister and I spent 8 days in Spain and divided our time between Madrid and San Sebastian. We took an overnight train between the cities. In Madrid, we stayed at the Hotel Europa (it's in Rick's guidebook) and we loved it.
USA Thu 02/08/2007

Eastern European Transporation
We traveled from Prague to Krakow to Budapest by train. We were on an extremely tight budget at the time and we had the cheapest tickets available so I can't comment on the quality of the trains since I'm sure we saw the worst (but it was fun!). On a different trip, we traveled between Ljubljana and Bled by rental car (very easy to drive in Slovenia, great way to get around and see the caves, side trip to Trieste, etc.), then took a train from Ljubljana to Zagreb (spent the night, great time, very underrated city). We took a bus from Zagreb to Plitvice and another bus from Plitvice to Split. We were nervous about the bus from Plitvice to Split because we had to stand on the side of the road and flag one down but it turned out to be no big deal. Buses came by fairly regularly and we caught the second one passing by that stopped in Split. We visited the island of Hvar instead of Korcula and got there and back by ferry. We then took a bus from Split to Dubrovnik. All of the buses in Croatia were very nice, clean and comfortable. We had no problems buying our bus or ferry tickets the day before or the day of our travel.
Rita
Philadelphia, USA Thu 02/08/2007

Train to Venice from Rome
I should have figured train schedule BEFORE I decided what route we would do.Norm or Tim or anyone else. I need to get from Rome to Venice via train on 20 October . I've been on several sites; trenitalia. italiarail and others. I think I found a train with no stops. Also the big question! Going from Venice to Cinque Terre. Do we take a train into Florence then catch a train to Cinque Terre? I think it cuts out one stop. The schedules look like that would be more feasible and arrive the Cinque Terre in mid afternoon rather than after 7:00 p.m. Perhaps I'm not getting into the "right" schedule on-line. I've found schedules for a 6 hour ride with 3 changes or go to Florence from Venice then to Cinque Terre. oops!! I should have looked at the train schedules first to "plan" my route. Is it wise to purchase tickets before I get to Italy for the Rome to Venice or just upon arrival? Thanks for your input.
Bonnie <email>
USA Thu 02/08/2007

Eastern Europe Transportation
My wife and I are traveling in late April early May 07 for 3 plus weeks throughout Eastern Europe, we are veteran travelers but need help on ground transportation. We start in Prague to Krakow to Eger to Budapest to Ljubljana to Bled to Plitvice to Split to Korcula to Dubrovnik. Any suggestions on the above legs would be greatly appreciated, thank you
Mike Morley <email>
Indianapolis, IN USA Thu 02/08/2007

Re 10 Day Euro Trip
Thank you to all those that did reply...it was very helpful. My husband would like to spend a few days in London and then go to Spain for the most part of the trip. Any suggestions there? I am open to anything. Does anyone have any suggestions as to wear to stay in England and or Spain...preferably near Madrid?
Valerie <email>
North Bay, ON Canada Thu 02/08/2007

Greece with kids!
Help! Going to Greece with parents and kids. Need a preferably close island but with the "quintissentially Greek atmosphere" (i.e. beaches, taverns, villages, ruins, sites, etc.).

Also, need charming place to stay where we can celebrate Easter with the locals.

And, family-friendly nice, but not outrageously costly place to stay in Athens.

Thank soooooo much!

Any ideas greatly appreciated!
Joy <email>
Frankfurt, IN USA Wed 02/07/2007

Florence, Pisa, Siena, Lucca
You can totally do Pisa as a short day trip (we only spent about 4 hours there) from Florence. I haven't visited Lucca, but I would highly recommend staying the night in Siena. The view from the top of the bell tower was one of my favorite in all of Europe and hanging out on Il Campo in the evening was great!
Jennifer Herbison <email>
Seattle, WA USA Wed 02/07/2007

10 Day Euro Trip
This is my personal opinion. I would spend my time in england and perhaps a quick trip to Wales or Scotland. Consider what your major objective is. Do you want to see how many places you can pass through in 10 days or do you want to spend a little more time and have a deeper experience in the places you do visit? Either way I believe you will have a great trip if you choose which best fits your objective.
Kim
USA Wed 02/07/2007

Florence etc
Hi, I'd suggest basing yourself in Florence and visiting the other places from there. There's really not much in Pisa and Sienna is beautiful but there is so much in Florence to see and do I reckon staying there is the best option. You can do a day trip that goes to Pisa and Sienna from Florence and back which I did and found really good. Can't comment on Lucca.
Helen
Brighton, Vic Australia Wed 02/07/2007

FLORENCE-PISA-SIENA-LUCCA----OHMY!!
Ia am traveling with my daughter to Italy at the end of May. Our flight is into Rome early morning and we plan to take a train to Venice that morning. We'd like to stop and drop a bag in Castiglion Fiorentino since she will be spending the month of June there. We were going to stay 2 or 3 nights in Venice then go on to Cinque Terre and stay in Vernazza a night. The nights in the middle we'd like to see Lucca, Pisa, Siena and Florence. We can stay 3 or 4 nights. Should we base out one of those places or divide it up? We will end up with 3 or 4 night in Rome. HELP. Does this plan sound like it would work? ANY advice would be appreciated.
Debbie <email>
Plano, TX USA Wed 02/07/2007

Amsterdam Airport Hotel
After 13 days in London & Paris we will be spending our last night near the Amsterdam airport but we're having trouble finding a room for 2 adults & 2 children for under $250. Anyone have any suggestions?
Diane <email>
Solon, OH USA Wed 02/07/2007

Welsh ATMs
You can't use US debit cards to make point-of-sale purchases in Europe. European debit cards use "smart chip" technology which is incompatible the US cards. You will have no problems withdrawing cash from ATM machines; so its best to plan your money around ATMs. As far as fees go, some banks in the UK charge a fee to non-customers, when you attempt to withdraw cash you will be given notification of what the fee is; if any.
Michael Schneider <email>
NY USA Wed 02/07/2007

Welsh ATMs (esp. HSBC)
I'm heading over to southern Wales in early May, and will be using my Visa Debit card for the majority of purchases. My bank has assured me that there will be no fees at this end (nice guys!), but I do expect there to be local fees for ATM usage. Would anyone know the general amount charged in that area? Since HSBC has an ATM right at Cardiff International Airport, I'm likely to be using that one first.
John H. Harris <email>
Jamestown, NY USA Wed 02/07/2007

Re: 10 Days in Europe
I agree with Paul n Sara in the post below...I would spend the whole 10 days in Paris. Even with 10 days you won't see everything (if you include day trips such as Versailles, Vaux le Vicomte, Giverny, etc.) and even then you won't want to leave! Paris is not expensive at all. You can get a nice hotel for 2 for $80 which includes breakfast, you can do picnic lunches, and eat a wonderful dinner for very little. I live 5 miles north of San Francisco which is way more expensive than Paris as a tourist. That's just my 2 cents, Bon Voyage!
San Francisco, USA Wed 02/07/2007

RE: 10 Days in Europe
Valerie....you'll find Paris a bargain after London!:)
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Wed 02/07/2007

10 Days in Europe
I have heard that Paris is wonderful, but pricey...how can you go to Europe and NOT see Paris though...it's definately a difficult choice, especially when there are so many choices. We just want to enjoy ourselves and take home great memories. Thanks for all the suggestions.
Valerie <email>
North Bay, ON Canada Wed 02/07/2007

About those 10 days
We agree that 10 days is better spent in fewer places. We would lean toward Paris and London. Barcelona is a vibrant and lovely place but it complicates things. Paris and London are near each other,easily traveled between and have much to offer. We have now spent 19 days in London over 2 yrs and 21 in Paris-- even at that there are places we havent seen yet. Come to think of it, forget London-- spend the whole 10 days in Paris!!!!
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Wed 02/07/2007

Madrid-Paris
Somebody wrote about the Madrid-Paris hotel train. We took overnight sleeper from Barcelona to Paris in 2006. The ride was very bumpy and not conducive to sleep. Food was excellent,if pricey. Cost was exhorbitant. Any train from Madrid would likely go first to Barcelona then on. The track between Barc and Paris is a nightmare, tho that from Madrid to Bar is fine.
Paul n Sara <email>
USA Wed 02/07/2007

Affiliations
AAA membership can help you access some good discounts on your travel.
USA Wed 02/07/2007

Central Europe Car vs. Rail
We just booked airfare from mid april to mid may roundtrip to Munich. We were thinking Munich-Prague-Krakow-Budepest-Vienna-Bavaria- and back to Munich for our return trip. It seems a car rental might be cheaper/faster/funner, than Trains. Any advice on renting/driving in this region. Thanks
Jared
Tacoma, USA Wed 02/07/2007

Canoeing Amsterdam
Is it possible to rent a canoe and paddle on the canals in Amsterdam? Or for that matter, anywhere in Holland or Belgium?
Nancy Groh <email>
Johns Island, SC USA Wed 02/07/2007

RE: 10 Days in Europe
Valerie.....three days in London (fly or take the Eurostar to Paris the third evening), three days in Paris (fly out the third evening to Madrid), then three days in Madrid...the 10th day to get back to London to catch your flight home. Knowing how airlines from Canada schedule flights to/from London, you may have to come back from Madrid the ninth night, to make sure you catch your morning flight back home. Forget the overnight train Paris-Madrid....way too expensive. Check out http://flyzoom.com for some good deals to London from Toronto and Ottawa. To check out discount airlines flying London-Paris-Madrid, check http://whichbudget.com. You can find some good rail deals at http://www.eurostar.com. Enter your departure date and a fictitious return date, and you can get a good deal on a return ticket...just throw away the return half. You might also find a deal at the french railway site, http://www.sncf.fr/indexe.htm. It'll involve a well-planned schedule, but it can be done.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Wed 02/07/2007

how i would do it
london -Paris - amsterdam -- open Jaw flight-- use tunnel (you could stop for few hours in Brussels for beer and frys ) no point but what the **** you are going bye.
USA Wed 02/07/2007

RE: Airfare
You will probably find that it's cheaper to fly into London and catch a discount flight to Madrid, but keep checking airlines like Spanair, Iberia, Continental, etc to see if there are any deals, since they're being forced to compete with low-cost airlines. Flying into London does involve some drawbacks. First, you'll likely have to change airports, from Heathrow to Gatwick, Stansted or Luton, to take advantage of the discount fares. This involves adding 4-6 hours to your transit time, to make sure you check in on time. Second, since you'll be changing airlines, there's no obligation on one airline to help you if the other airline changes or cancels a flight...you're stuck making your own changes, possibly at extra cost. I've done both, and to me, it depends on the cost. If I can find a flight on the same airline thru to Madrid that's within $100 of the discount total, then I'll take that, just for convenience sake. To see what discount airline are flying out of London for Madrid (or anywhere else in Europe, for that matter), see http://whichbudget.com. You may also want to try Swissair, at http://swiss.com. I found a great deal there last year via Zurich.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Wed 02/07/2007

10 Days in Europe
We were thinking of taking the Hotel train to Madrid from Paris...still wondering if it is worth it in that short period of time. Perhaps there would be a better suggestion for such a short stay.
Valerie
North Bay, ON CANDADA Wed 02/07/2007

10 days
10 days in europe is possible...but you have to decide on what it is you really want to see...make a priority list. for example do London, and Bath do London and paris do London and barcelona.....

I can not see you doing much more than 2 places in ten days.
bluedenim
canada Wed 02/07/2007

Young Adult studying in France this summer
Hi- My daughter will be spending a summer semester in Ales, France, traveling to Carcassone, Nice, Dordogne, Provence and Paris as part of her class. She wants to spend an additional week in Europe at the end but can't decide where to go. We suggested Chamonix, Brussels, Amsterdam. Are there any 22ish people out there that can make a recommendation? Her father and I are paying for a Railpass so we'd like to get a sense of what to buy. Thanks-
Connie <email>
USA Wed 02/07/2007

Re: Is a 10 day Euro Trip possible?
There is so much to see in England that you could easily spend your entire 10 days in England. And that's at the risk of snubbing Wales and Scotland. If you have only 10 days, I would suggest limiting yourself to just the UK. You can include France or Spain, but not both. Travelling to another place, finding your hotel, unpacking, etc., all take up valuable sight-seeing time. You could the the Eurostar (Chunnel to Americans) to Paris, then fly out of Paris. Personally, I would suggest flying into London or Manchester, then catch a connecting flight to Edinburgh. After Edinburgh, move on to London, which will easily soak up the rest of your time. By ending your trip in London, you'll be well located to catch your flight home. It's always dicey to rely upon a connecting flight to catch your trans-Atlantic flight home.
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Wed 02/07/2007

air fare
I will be going to Madrid in mid-June, is it cheaper to travel to London and then pick up a local flight to Madrid? has anyone done this? It seems like there are always special prices to London, but I'm not sure about the bookings betwen cities in Europe.
sandy <email>
indpls, in USA Wed 02/07/2007

Walking in Venice
The best way to see Venice is just wonder.The Accademia,Rialto Bridge and St.Marks Square form a Triangle where all the tourists travel.Get away from there and you can wonder without the crowds.
jack <email>
Sheboygan, Wi USA Wed 02/07/2007

Is a 10 day Euro Trip possible?
My husband and I are planning a trip the end of March and first week of April flying into London. We want to get the most of the short time we have. We will only have about 10 days in Europe. Anyone that can give us some helpful tips on trips from there to Spain and or France would be appreciated.
valerie <email>
North Bay, ON CA Wed 02/07/2007

France to Great Britain-Cheap
Nothing can beat Eurolines rates but it takes quite a long time by bus.
France Wed 02/07/2007

France to Great Britain-Cheap
The the cheap airlines - just know that while the airfare may be 5 euros, the taxes are much more. Even so, they can be a great money-saver. Ryanair and EasyJet are two, but check online for others.

British Airways has a sale right now: Britishairways.com

Air France also has deals...good luck!
USA Wed 02/07/2007

Schwarzwaldbahn
I would define the Schwarzwaldbahn as Hausach to Triberg, but Triberg is just a stop, not a junction, so the route is really Hausach to Villingen or Donaueschingen. It's all part of DB regional rail; you don't need special tickets; you can do it, as well as the rest of your travel that day, with a Baden-Württemberg ticket.
<email>
USA Wed 02/07/2007

Student on tight budget / crossing from France to Great Britian
I'm looking for the cheapest way to cross from France to Great Britian. I have a niece studying in France and has the itch to venture out.
Bruce Blecher
San Diego, CA USA Wed 02/07/2007

Black Forest Railway
Has anyone traveled on the Black Forest Railway (Schwarzwaldbahn) in Germany? Is there a specified beginning and end to it? Do you have to buy special tickets or do you just use regular train tickets? Having trouble finding info in English...
Margaret <email>
Charlotte, NC USA Wed 02/07/2007

Porsche Stuttgart Tours
I have made tenative enquiries in Australia regarding visiting the Porsche factory in Stuttgart. Not sure if this applies to you guys in the US, but it is necessary to pre-book tours before your go through your nearest State Porsche outlet.
Judy
Adelaide, SA Australia Wed 02/07/2007

Central Europe Tourist Season
We are planning a trip to Prague-Krakow-Budapest-Vienna this spring/summer. We were wondering the best time to go, considering the crowds, and also the weather. When could we expect these cities to start to be crowded. Thank You
Jared
Tacoma, WA USA Tue 02/06/2007

Venice walking tours
Can someone recommend a walking tour of Venice? I want to do one the day I get there so I can get my bearings and then head off by myself for the rest of my trip
Helen
Brighton, Vic Australia Tue 02/06/2007

palma-barcelona-sitges
I am flying into Palma and then am planning to spend time in Barcelona and Sitges. what is the best way to get from here to barcelona or Sitges
paul
USA Tue 02/06/2007

Munich: Hohenscwangau and Newschwanstein
If you are trying to get there from Munich, I would suggest taking the train to Fussen and then renting a bike to ride to the site. As others have mentioned, you don't have a choice about taking a guided tour of the castles, but you can get yourself there (you don't need to take a tour from Munich).
Jennifer Herbison <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 02/06/2007

Bacharach and St. Goar
I have stayed at the youth hostel right below the castle in St. Goar and at Lettie's (a Rick pick) in Bacharach. I would highly recommend both. Bacharach is a little more interesting as a town, but the view from the youth hostel in St. Goar was amazing. Their breakfast room looks out over the Rhine and it was awesome! Either way, I would definitely recommend taking the boat cruise between the two one direction and riding a bike the other direction. TONS of fun!
Jennifer Herbison <email>
Seattle, WA USA Tue 02/06/2007

What affiliations work?
In my case, none of the above.

Absolutely!
USA Tue 02/06/2007

What affiliations work?
What kinds of educational, retirement, professional, interest, etc. memberships are most useful to the independent traveller?
David <email>
Atlanta, GA USA Tue 02/06/2007

Bonnie - base for Umbria
Orvieto!!! Hands down a wonderful city to spend time in after the day tourists have left.
USA Tue 02/06/2007

Pensione Accademia, Venice
Helen - If you check Frommers.com you will find specific directions to Pensione Accademia from the Accademia vaporetto stop. Also, the B & B phone number is included so you can call directly to get answers to your questions. Tripadvisor.com is an excellent source for detailed travelers reviews. I never book a hotel without checking this site. Good luck.
USA Tue 02/06/2007

Venice
Helen in Australia~~I am not familiar with Pensione Accademia in Venice but if you are in need of assistance with your luggage you should ask your hotel. I did not see anyone being helped in any way upon exiting a vaporetto. Have you considered packing light enough to handle your own luggage? I think there are water taxis that go directly to hotels accessible by canal. We stayed at LaCalcina and it was really easy exiting at Zattere and there were no bridges to haul wheeled luggage over. Enjoy your trip to Venice!
USA Tue 02/06/2007

Istanbul/Athens
Turkey and Greece are also on my travel plans for September. We will be in Istanbul 2.5 days and Athens 3 days. Anyone used the tour group Rick recommends in Istanbul? Also, any hotel suggestions? In Athens I'm deciding between Hotel Plaka and the Attalos. Suggestions?
Cathy
TX USA Tue 02/06/2007

re: St. Goar or Bacharach
This past October we stayed in Oberwesel on the Rhine. It is a beautiful small town with a couple of good restaurants, a grocery store, and train station. Several of the tour boats stop there as well. For a great splurge, try the Castle Schonburg Hotel. It is located high up with fabulous views of the Rhine however it might be difficult to reach without a car. They also have a wonderful restaurant and elegant breakfast buffet!
Julie
Omaha, NE USA Tue 02/06/2007

Bonnie
We love Cortona. It has a lot to offer on its own, and is a great jumping off place for many of the places you list, maybe all.

There are nice hotels there and several nice apartments for rent there.
Doberry
USA Tue 02/06/2007

Base for touring Umbria/Tuscany regions, Italy
Will be touring Italy last week of October, by car; Orvieto, Civita, Bagnoregio,Todi,Spoleto, Perugio, Assisi, Buggio, Cortona, Montepulciano, etc. Looking at Orvieto for base. But I found neat Hotel Romantic Pucci in Bagnoregio. Doesn't look like there is anything to see in the evening (strolling). Rick's book does not mention any night life. Other suggestions for a base to tour the area for 7 days? Thanks.
Bonnie <email>
OR USA Tue 02/06/2007

Walk from R'burg to W'burg
Chris, I lived in that area. Believe me, there isn't anything worth seeing that would justify the hiking time. Spend an extra day in R'burg and take the train to W'burg. Spend 2 days in W'burg. Work in a day trip to Heidelburg or Miltenburg. Both are accessable from either R'burg or W'burg. Jerry
Jerry
USA Tue 02/06/2007

Ryanair and late arrival in Pisa
I'm wondering if anyone has flown Ryanair. I'm traveling Sevilla,Sp. to Pisa, Italy. I will arriving midnight in Pisa so I am concerned about taxi's still running in Pisa at that hour and if anyone can recommend a good hotel that's not far from the airport. We'll be going to Florence the next day. Linda
Linda Crosby
USA Tue 02/06/2007

Venice
I am going to Venice in mid March and will be arriving at the station. I am booked at Pensione Academia and believe I can get a vaporetto to the Academia stop. Can anyone tell me how far that is from the pensione and if there will be a porter to take my luggage? If so how much should it cost and should I haggle with him to set the price?
Helen <email>
Brighton, Vic Australia Mon 02/05/2007

RE; Overnight rail pass
Yes, that's correct. From the RailEurope Eurail pass website, terms and conditions...."if an overnight train starts after 7:00pm on a validated Pass, the passholder must enter the next day's date on the pass, provided it falls within the validity of the pass."
Norm
Ottawa, Canada Mon 02/05/2007

Re: Overnight Rail Pass Days Used?
"Can someone confirm whether this is true or not?"

Rick can. Look under Railpasses (banner tab) > Using your railpass >Using your pass. He explains the "7 pm rule".
<email>
USA Mon 02/05/2007

Overnight Rail Pass Days Used?
I read the following statement:"Board overnight trains after 7:00 pm to conserve money and valuable travel days. Only the day of your arrival will be counted on your railpass, therefore you save a day of travel." Can someone confirm whether this is true or not?
Khel <email>
Toronto, ON Canada Mon 02/05/2007

Krakow
We spent a week in Poland, including Krakow, last March. We read the average weather for the area, but that didn't prepare us for the cold weather we experienced. Bring warm boots and long underwear. We spent 2 nights in Zakopane in the Tatra mountains. That was a wonderful side trip from Krakow. I'm glad that we spent the night instead of making it a day trip. A must to take with: Rick Steves Eastern Europe book and a Lonely Planet Polish phrasebook. You'll never master Polish, but we were glad that we could make sense of a few things. Also, when you take the bus to Auschwitz, you should know that the bus leaves from below the main waiting room of the bus station. Not knowing that, we almost missed the bus.
Karen <email>
MN USA Mon 02/05/2007

Krakow Help
I'm planning to visit Krakow for a week in mid March.

What climate should I prepare for?

In addition to Auschwitz and possibly salt mines, what else should I be sure to visit?

What nearby small towns would make a good day trip?

Any particular culture/language/custom tips you can give me would be excellent.

Thank you in advance,
Jennifer <email>
Ohio USA Mon 02/05/2007

doable?
is this doable... 5 nights prague 7 nights Barcelona/Sitges 7 nights paris
ca
USA Mon 02/05/2007

St Petersburg Train
You can book rail tickets at this web site: http://www.waytorussia.net/Services/TrainTickets.html There are two trains per day. One is operated by the Russian rail company, the other is operated by the Fins. The Finish train is more luxurious.
Michael Schneider <email>
NY USA Mon 02/05/2007

Luggage in Cesky Krumlov
Its a small train station in Cesky so I would try to email if they have that kind of service. We traveled all over eastern europe last summer, and Cesky was one of my favorite towns. We stayed 2 days and would have liked to stay longer, because of the rafting and its splendid beauty. I hope you can at least spend a nite.But if not, its definety worth the stop, bags and all.
Helene <email>
USA Mon 02/05/2007

Turkey and Greece
Hi, I'm planning a trip this fall and would like to see Turkey and Greece. I hear Turkey is wonderful and interesting. We travel alot and like to travel Ricks ways. But in Turkey would it be better to go on tour or on our own like we're uses to? Also what places to see in Greece? We're thinkingof mflying to Rome travel southern Italy, cross over to Greece and then Turkey. We'll take at least 3 weeks. Any suggestions? Thanks
Helene <email>
Brentwood, ca USA Mon 02/05/2007

Walk from Rothenburg to Wurzburg
I will be ending a tour in Rothenburg this July and will be hooking up with some friends 5 days later in Franfurt. Has anyone ever hiked from Rothenburg to Wurzburg? Can it be done in 4 days with a 30 lb. pack? Or, do you know of a one-way bike rental place in Rothenburg?
Chris
OK USA Mon 02/05/2007

Train to Rome
Will be in Italy in May. Would like to do a day trip from the Cinque Terra area to Rome. Will have a car but not sure if it would be faster to take a train. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks. Pat
Pat <email>
Byhalia, MS USA Mon 02/05/2007

St Petersburg Train
Has anyone been on the train from Helsinki to St Petersburg? Can you buy your tickets in advance? Is there another location you can catch a train from in Scandinavia to St Petersburg? Any idea on what it costs?
Anneka <email>
SLC, UT USA Mon 02/05/2007

Bonjour to fashion...
I must agree with the other French person. As a Parisian man married to an American woman, what attracted me was her originality. As long as it flatters you and it aesthetically pleasing, you will be fine.
Jean-Michelle
Paris, France Sun 02/04/2007

Okay, everybody- when French Vogue shows black gauchos from Target paired with sleek lime green Keen sandals as the latest in chic fashion, you can thank me...
Karen
USA Sun 02/04/2007

Re: Kathy, gauchos in Paris
Don't worry about it! Part of great fashion is standing out of the crowd. If you think it looks good and nobody else is wearing it then you just may start a fashion trend. Go with what you think looks good.
France Sun 02/04/2007

Done. The tour company suggested that we stay at the Hotel Churchill since they depart and return just behind the hotel. We're looking forward to the trip!
Cathy
USA Sun 02/04/2007

Kathy--Bayeux to Paris
I think you will get the best info if you ask your tour company. They may have a way of helping you get your luggage to where you want it.
USA Sun 02/04/2007

gyor
beware of gypsies at gyor train station trying to be helpful to your wallet.
ed
USA Sun 02/04/2007

Super Bowl and Paris fashion question
For those of you thinking fashion today, rather than football- are gaucho style pants still being worn in Europe? It's been two years since my last trip. I don't worry about measuring up to the Europeans' level of style, but- I love my lightweight black jersey ones, and would like to use them especially for day-to-evening this summer in Paris.
Karen
USA Sun 02/04/2007

Traveling from Bayeux to Paris
I have a logistics question. We are checking out of our hotel in Bayeux and taking the BattleBus tour of the beaches. We will be leaving after the tour for Paris by train. Should we leave our luggage at the hotel and go back to Bayeux then take the train to paris Or is there a better way to go straight from the tour end to Paris? I don't think we can or should take our luggage on the tour bus.
Cathy <email>
Midland, TX USA Sun 02/04/2007

Left luggage in Cesky Krumlov?
We're planning on going from Prague to Vienna either by train or bus, and would like to have a daytrip to Cesky Krumlov on the way. The only thing is, we'd rather not be dragging our backpacks around all day. Is there a place to leave luggage either at the bus station or the train station there?
JER
Seattle, WA USA Sun 02/04/2007

RE: 14 Days in France
Kathy mentioned Beaune in Burgundy. You may stop in Dijon (capital of Burgundy which hasa good reputation for gastronomy and wines) and taste sweet food like "pain d'épices" (gingerbread) Poire belle Dijonnaise (pear in red wine)along with a Kir (blackcurrant with white wine "Aligoté"). As for the cuisine don't forget les escargots, le coq au vin, les oeufs en meurette, les gougères, le jambon persillé, la fondue bourguignonne.... And if you want to enjoy going to the market and cooking yourselves from time to time and feel like real Dijonnais, stay in a home rental like "my home in Dijon". www.myhomeindijon.com right in the town center, next to the ducal palace and museums. Happy travels and bon appétit! :-)
France Sun 02/04/2007

Re: Bacharach or St. Goar--why not Boppard?
Last summer I stayed in neither Bacharach or St. Goar, but in Boppard nearby. I rode down the Rhine past Bacharach and St. Goar; they both looked lovely, but sleepier than Boppard. Boppard is a little bigger, but still quaint. There are plenty of interesting sites to look at, and the advantage that it has over Bacharach and St. Goar (if you call it an advantage) is that there are few Americans. There was a festival going on when we were there, and I found it interesting to observe middle-class, not wealthy, Germans having fun. With all the athletic shoes and tattoos, they didn't look a lot different than Minnesotans at play. If you want to visit St. Goar or Bacharach, they are a 5 or 10 minute train ride away.
Karen <email>
MN USA Sun 02/04/2007

RE: Bruges or Brussels
The most efficient way to get from Paris to Bruges by train is thru Brussels anyway...so if you leave Paris early enough, you can spend a half day visiting Grand Place and surrounding area.....then head to Bruges, definitely a more inviting place to visit. If you're travelling by car, then go directly to Bruges...it's 16th century ambiance is certainly the choice if you can't do both.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sun 02/04/2007

re: Munich: Hohenscwangau and Newschwanstein
We visited the King Ludwig castles last fall. Not sure what you mean about a "guide" - you can only enter the castles as part of their escorted tour groups. The place is highly organized and regulated (to put it gently). You go, get tickets, and go through both castles with a group at your appointed time, or you don't get in. In high season the place is undoubtedly mobbed - it's clearly set up to handle huge crowds. When we were there (mid-September) the crowds weren't bad. But you cannot simply wander through unescorted. No need to hire a private guide (I really doubt they would let you - imagine hiring a private guide to Disneyland). All the details are in Rick's Germany book. Hope that helps.
David
Seattle, WA USA Sat 02/03/2007

RE: St. Goar or Bacharach
Well, we stayed in Bacharach and did a day trip to St. Goar. We liked Bacharach better, it just seems like a more substantial town with more things to see (although both are definitely small towns). We stayed at the hostel in Bacharach - great place, incredible value.
David
Seattle, WA USA Sat 02/03/2007

re: Bruges or Brussels?
Well, to my tastes, there's no contest - I'd take Bruges any day. Now don't get me wrong, Brussels is OK and certainly has some good things to do and see. But as a whole I found Bruges to be delightful and one of the highlights of my last trip. I'd go there if only for the food, beer and chocolate!
David
Seattle, WA USA Sat 02/03/2007

Bruges or Brussels?
Which would you recommend? We will be traveling from Amsterdam to Paris this June and really want to stop in one of these cities. I am leaning more toward Bruges. Thanks!
Marcella <email>
Orlando, FL USA Sat 02/03/2007

Train reservations
Before you throw $25 (DER service fee) down the toilet, check out some other options. You can get night train reservations for many German trains at buchung.nachtzugreise.de, for many Italian trains on www.trenitalia.com, and for many French trains on www.sncf.fr/indexe.htm.

I just found reservations for a bed in a six person couchette on that Paris Venice train for €125 ($163) on SNCF (French Rail). That is a fully refundable fare. Rail Europe, and I suspect DER also, because they are affiliated, charges $184 for the same couchette plus a bunch of shipping and handling fees. Also, SNCF offers a non-refundable fare in the same couchette for €75.
USA Sat 02/03/2007

RE: 14 Days in France
Kathy--Highly recommend Hotel l'Oriel in Riquewihr in Alsace. This walled city looks like something out of a movie, it is wonderful! The hotel is comfortable, the staff is friendly and the little pub downstairs is convenient. http://www.hotel-oriel.com/

Would also recommend taking in Beaune. It is beautiful. Recommend Hotel Grillon, right outside the village-it's a 10 minute walk or short drive into the village. Very quiet & picturesque.
Kathy
Memphis, USA Sat 02/03/2007

Visa for Turkey
American citizens can get the visa on arrival in Turkey. However, I am not going to assume you are a citizen. If you are a permanent resident of the US ("green card" holder), then you must check the visa requirements for your home country with the Turkish embassy or consulate. I am a resident of the US, but hold a Mexican passport and had to get my visa prior to arrival. My husband, a US citizen, got his when we landed in Turkey.
USA Sat 02/03/2007

Dublin Trinity College Dormitory
I have not stayed in the Dormitory, but the location is perfect. Right at the heart of everthing you want to see and do in Dublin. The Book of Kells exhibit is excellent and not to be missed.
Kim
USA Sat 02/03/2007

Dublin
Has anyone stayed at the Trinity College dormitories in Dublin? The school has 800 rooms in various price ranges available for summer tourists.

Thanks.
Emily <email>
Houston, TX USA Sat 02/03/2007

Train reservations
One year in March, I tried to get couchette and train tickets from Paris to Venice four days before I wanted to go. The train was sold out, and I spent a miserable night sitting up all the way from France to Italy! Now I gladly pay DER $25 to get my ticket and reservation ahead of time. To me, it is money well spent.
USA Sat 02/03/2007

Dubrovnik / Korcula Accomodations
Would appreciate your suggestions for a place to stay (B & B type) on the island of Korcula in Croatia & also in the town of Cavtat, near the Dubrovnik airport. Anticipating possible trip there this fall. Thanks a bunch!
Scott & Mary <email>
Erie, PA USA Sat 02/03/2007

Train Reservations
Just to add one comment about train reservations. Italy seems to have alot of "announced" train strikes. Had my husband & I not made reservatios ahead of time for travel between Rome & Florence on a certain day we would not have made it to Florence (due to the announced strike)because of the heavy volume of travelers already having made their reservations. Since we only had a limited amount of time in each city we wouldn't have had enough time in Florence along with having to pay for accomodations already booked. So sometimes it pays to reserve especially with frequent train strikes in Italy.
Stephanie <email>
Al USA Sat 02/03/2007

Parma Cooking Class
Has anyone ever taken a 1 day cooking class in Parma, Italy ? I am able to locate 3 day 'affairs', but would like one that is a half a day or so...We are only in Parma for a day and night. Would appreciate any help...Syracuse,NY
JeanBean <email>
Syracuse, NY USA Sat 02/03/2007

travel to gatwick
bus 11 pounds round trip.
sam
USA Sat 02/03/2007

Help TSA Carryon Rules
The key is "carry on". You can only have 3 oz. of any one gel or liquid product and alll must be in a one quart plastic bag. That would mean one bag for yourself and another for your husband. I pack only our medications and a small bottle of lotion and Pepto-Bismol. Everything else, including shampoo etc. goes into checked luggage (also carefully sealed with Saran Wrap over top of bottle before top is screwed on and in it's own individual plastic bag.) It is a pain when your luggage is delayed, but the advantage is that your carry on is lighter and easier to carry. We are in your age range and have similar concerns and this has worked for us. Hope this helps.
Peggy Oliver <email>
Orange Park, FL USA Sat 02/03/2007

Re: train reservations
Charles is correct. For anyone to say you NEED to book ahead for train travel in Europe is not true, as he himself has proven through his journeys. I think booking ahead depends on an individual's flexibility in his/her touring plans, and their personal comfort level. For my part, I always try to reserve ahead, not only to take advantage of sales that may be offered (giving me more money to spend elsewhere) but to keep my schedule intact. I try to cram as much into my valuable vacation time as I can, and I have lots of chances to get off the beaten track and try new experiences. But sitting around in a train station waiting for the next train to come is not one of them. I'm simply not willing to take the chance that the train I want will be full. So don't rule out the idea of simply heading to Europe and booking your trains as you go. But make sure you're comfortable with the delays that may occur, and spending more money than you might have planned.
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Sat 02/03/2007

Train Reservations
Excuse me, Norm is right. I should have explained in more detail. Trains tickets bought in the US from the train company web site may be cheaper and some may even offer periodic specials. BUT, tickets bought from travel agents, DB and DER are more expensive, certainly in Italy. And there is no need, plus you lose the freedom to change your mind. 99% of the information offered here is accurate and very helpful. Rick provides a great resource for new and regular travelers. But when first time travelers extrapolate their limited experiences into rules for everyone, as they often do on these pages, it ruins the value of this site.
Charles M. Luther
USA Fri 02/02/2007

Turkey Visa
You can get your visa at your port of entry upon arrival. No need to get it before you leave. When I got off the plane in Istanbul, one of the first stops is at the visa counter. You hand over $20 and a stamp is put in your passport. Very easy....
Richard
Bellingham, WA USA Fri 02/02/2007

Soggiorno Battistero
We stayed at the Soggiorno Battistero in October 2002. My husband complained that it was very noisy. I take sleeping pills when I travel, so I slept like a baby.

The location cannot be beat. Our room looked out over the Baptistry. Kelly, the owner, was very helpful with getting museum reservations lined up for us and with restaurant recommendations.

I would stay there again in a heart beat.
Doberry
USA Fri 02/02/2007

visa in Turkey
We are going to Turkey the first of March. I did not realize I needed a visa until today. I am afraid that if I order through the Turkish consulate in D.C. I will not get them in time. Is it a huge problem to get the visa once we land in Istanbul? I would love to correspond directly with anyone who has experience in Turkey.
Peggy Oliver <email>
Jacksonville, FL USA Fri 02/02/2007

Volterra transportation to other hill towns
I hate to rent cars in other countries so I rely on buses, trains and taxis. I see that there is bus service out of Voterra which I would like to use as a base to visit other places like San Gimignano however it looks like they all require a bus change and a hour and a half to two hours to go short distances. Is there reasonable taxi service between towns or am I stuck with the bus?
Mike H. <email>
USA Fri 02/02/2007

ORLY AIRPORT TO NORMANDY
Suzann: since I haven’t done that, I can't tell you how.

But I would search the web for the best way to get from Orly to Normandy. You may not want to go into Paris.

Do a google search for “Orly to Normandy” and see what you learn.

When you are at Normandy, you can ask at the RR station how to get back to Paris.

The RR clerks I have talked with in France and Italy are very helpful in planning travel.
USA Fri 02/02/2007

PARIS HOSTEL
BRITTA: Try this hostel: www.hb-247.com/aff/hostelz/france/paris/3610.
USA Fri 02/02/2007

RE: Travel to the UK
Actually, it's a doubling of the existing airport tax which is already included in all tickets to flights that stop at a UK airport. Which means about £40 extra for people flying from the US, half that for UK to Europe.

Some airlines will pay for this, others will charge you - if your airline is charging extra, they'll notify you when you are checking in for the flight or simply charge the extra to the credit card used to book the tickets.

Supposedly at least part of thet tax goes for environmental things, but I think it's probably an increase to cover the additional security and help pay for improvements in infrastructure.
Scotland Fri 02/02/2007

STUTTGART PORSHCE FACTORY TOURS
JMMO: Be sure to check the Porsche factory webpage to determine if there are still tours of the factory.

When we arrived at the Benz factory in Stuttgart we found no tours.

But the museum is very impressive.
USA Fri 02/02/2007

Amsterdam accommodations
Ditto on what's reasonable for you. Try http://www.bookings.nl/ and check special deals. We have had good luck with this booking service.

Another to try is hotels.com - not as good, but still OK.

NOTE: If you have never been to Amsterdam, just be aware that hotels are not like ones here in the US. Many are more "historic" with no elevators or very small ones, many do not have AC and most rooms are small - some much smaller than an inexpensive motel here in the US. The pricier the hotel, the less likely they are to include breakfast. Taxes and service fees add up so be sure the price includes them.

There are many, many nice hotels in Amsterdam and you have to decide which part of the city will be your best choice.
USA Fri 02/02/2007

Florence, Italy B&B's
Has anyone stayed at Residenze Giotto in Florence. Was it noisy? They give 10% discount with Rick's book - cash. Anyone stay at Bellevue House or Soggiorno Battistero? Was the Soggiorno noisy? It has a view of the Duomo. Thanks.
Bonnie <email>
Tigard, OR USA Fri 02/02/2007

re: stroller for 4-year-old
Big thanks to everyone who gave their 2 cents on the stroller subject. Since I didn't hear a single "no way, Jose," I'm using you all as leverage against my husband's desire to leave everything we own at home. If anyone ever needs advice on the Scottish lowlands or Wales with kids, I'm your girl! Thanks again.
Kelly <email>
st louis, MO USA Fri 02/02/2007

RE: Train Reservations
Contrary to some popular opinions, train tickets are NOT more expensive if you purchase them in advance at the railway company's website. In fact, these websites offer advance purchase deals that are not always available if you walk up to the ticket counter half an hour before your train departure. Sometimes, learning how to navigate the sites is difficult, but you can save a bundle of cash!
Norm <email>
Ottawa, Canada Fri 02/02/2007

Airport Information
Good old GOOGLE will provide the info concerning travel to/from airports and making connections. Go to NAME OF AIRPORT (e.g. Orly Airport) and you will get the details about getting into Paris. Once in Paris by RER, use the same ticket to connect to the Metro system, then travel to wherever you want in the City. Rick's books outline which of Paris' train stations will take you in which direction.
Swan
USA Fri 02/02/2007

RE: St.Goar or Bacharach
We stayed in St. Goar at the hotel attached to the castle ruins way up on the hill (forgot the name). We then took one of the tour boat rides down the Rhine and back. It was a beautiful ride, but I don't think I would want to spend TOO much time on it...more than 2 hours roundtrip. We stopped at Bacharach which was probably a little more interesting than sleepy little St. Goar - although they were both very nice.
Tim
USA Fri 02/02/2007

Munich: Hohenscwangau and Newschwanstein
You purchase your ticket and wait until the specified time to enter. There are limited spaces for each tour time because you will be kept together as a group. Yes, it would be nice to just walk around on your own, but there are too many valuable and very BREAKABLE things to allow that.

There is nothing difficult about the touring the castles.
Tim
USA Fri 02/02/2007

Stuttgart: Porsche factory tour
My husband wants to tour the Porsche factory in Stuttgart. Is it worth the trip from Munich? Does anyone have any advice on getting a reservation set up?
JMMO <email>
Dallas, Tx USA Fri 02/02/2007

Munich: Hohenscwangau and Newschwanstein
Has anyone toured Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein without using a guided tour service? I would appreciate any advice. We would rather tour the castles and grounds on our own but I've been told it's difficult to get to and from the castles.
JMMO <email>
Dallas, TX USA Fri 02/02/2007

Re: Orly Airport Help
Trains to Normandy leave from Gare St-Lazare. Take the free Aeroports de Paris shuttle bus from Orly to the Pont de Rungis RER station. Take the RER C (direction Pontoise) to Bibliotheque-Francois Mitterand. Transfer to Metro line 14 (direction Saint-Lazare) and take it to Saint-Lazare. The trip will take a little less than one hour and will cost 5.75 EUR. To see this route yourself, go to www,ratp.fr and download and print a Metro/RER map for central Paris and a RER map that shows service to outlying zones (including Orly).
Tim <email>
Minot, ND USA Fri 02/02/2007

Rhine
I am planning on taking a short cruise down the Rhine, the part Rick says is the best. Just wondering if I should stay in St.Goar or Bacharach? Has anyone stayed in either of these towns and what was your experience?

Also has anyone booked train tickets through http://bahn.hafas.de did you have any problems booking tickets? I'd rather book the tickets ahead plus i noticed that some trains have a special cheaper price online, just wondering if the site is good and easy to book through.

Thanks all apreciate the help
<email>
Canada Thu 02/01/2007

London Theatre tickets
You can get tickets in advance via ticketmasters UK site at: http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/ The official London Theatre Guide also links with Ticketmaster at: http://www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk/
Michael Schneider <email>
NY USA Thu 02/01/2007

Train Reservations
The first time I went to Europe was in 1951. I have NEVER bought train tickets in advance except for certain "excursion" trains such as the Glacier Express in Switzerland. It is not necessary, it is more expensive to buy them here and it limits you choices. If you are going from Roma to Assisi on Easter and you absolutely must travel then and in a specific coach, then buy them but you will still be very crowded and someone will almost certainly try to steal you seat at that time of year. Everyone is worrying too much about advance reservations. I have made EuroStar reservations in First Class on popular days and made the reservation 30 minutes before the train left.
Charles M. Luther
USA Thu 02/01/2007

Orly Airport Help
Can anyone tell me how I can get from Orly Airport to the train station? I am flying from Berlin to Paris (Orly) and want to go to the Normandy area then return to Paris. Anyone fimilar with how I can do this? I checked and this information is not in Rick's 2006 Paris book.
Suzann <email>
Roseville, CA USA Thu 02/01/2007

Amsterdam for Pat
I don't Know what reasonable is to you, but Eric's B&B is really nice. Their website is www.ericbnb.com. We stayed in the Prinsengracht Apt V for about Euro 100/night. All we can say is: incredible.
S&S
Sonoma County, CA USA Thu 02/01/2007

Air Passenger Duty
Information on the increased rates of air passenger duty in the U.K. can be found at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6258327.stm.

These rates apply to flights leaving the U.K., and airlines have different ways of collecing the duty if you have already bought your ticket. You may need to contact your airline for further details.
Bob
UK Thu 02/01/2007

Julie: Venice Taxi's 24 hours??
I don't know anything about water taxis in Venice except they're ridiculously expensive. There are a few companies that provide buses from the main bus station in Venice to the airport, and they service just about every international flight, arriving at the airport a couple hours before flights leave. They're easy to find once you get to Venice.
RomanHans <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA Thu 02/01/2007

Terry on Trenitalia
Terry, I couldn't agree with you more! I spent literally days trying to buy train tickets online at Trenitalia's site, and it was a total waste of time. It's far too confusing for a civilian to navigate, and I never got replies to my emails for help.

Once I got to Italy, it was easy to buy tickets, and the clerks were always helpful though never particularly friendly. I never once ran into a train that was sold out (though I went in February, which isn't exactly high season).

Sure, it'd be smart to buy train tickets in advance, but I tried and found it somewhere between ridiculously frustrating to impossible.
RomanHans <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA Thu 02/01/2007

Travel to UK
If you are going to the UK soon, check out the travel news section. It seems that the UK has imposed, starting today, a tax on travelers that is collected before you can board the flight and apparently it is imposed on all travelers on all airlines. I didn't write down how much it was, but I think for transatlantic flights in first class it was either 80 euros or 80 pounds per person which is a hefty increase on the price of a ticket.
Doberry
USA Thu 02/01/2007

Frankfurt to...where?
A friend of ours will be in Frankfurt on business in 3-4 weeks (his wife is going also) and would like to extend is stay in Europe. He is thinking about going to Paris for 4-5 days when his business is finished but I thought it was worth asking you experienced travelers if you have a better recommendation (we haven't been to Germany or Eastern Europe so we can't recommend that to him). Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Connie <email>
FL USA Thu 02/01/2007

London Theatre tickets
Will be in London soon and wanted to see a couple of musicals while I'm there. I think I should probably get tickets a while before I leave but I'm not quite sure how. Should I contact the theatre directly?
Joe Bourassa <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Thu 02/01/2007

Food in London and Paris for a gay traveler
I will be in London and Paris for the first time in a couple of months. I have made a list of gay pubs in London and Paris and see that some serve food. Of the gay establishments in either city, does anybody have enough experience to tell me which of these places serve the best food?
Joe <email>
San Francisco, CA USA Thu 02/01/2007

Trenitalia
I found the Trenitalia experience very frustrating!!! Their system was so full of glitches. I tried for several months to buy tickets. I emailed them with requests for help several times and they actually called me from Italy 4 times, but were never able to resolve their computer issues. On their last attempt, they said I could try again in 2 days, but by then I was ready to leave. I went to Italy with no reservations at Christmas and New Years time. I was afraid that the holiday crowds would cause the trains to be full. However, once we were there, we bought our tickets at an automated machine in minutes with absolutely no problems. I wasted so much time before the trip trying to get passwords to work, opening new email addresses to try again, calling my credit card companies repeatedly to see why my Trenitalia purchase attempts were constantly denied and emailing them with my issues. I must say that they were extremely polite and apologetic about the endless problems with their system. However, in hindsight I realize it was a total waste of time. From now on, I'll buy my train tickets when I get to Italy!
Terry
Bend, USA Thu 02/01/2007

One quart bag
First of all, you each get a one-quart bag. Second, it is not so terrible. Amazingly, you can easily purchase shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. when you get there.
Linda
USA Thu 02/01/2007

Nitendo DS
Mary, I got back from Germany at Thanksgiving and we had almost the same thing - a teen that needed some DS time now and then.

Just buy a converter with multiple plugs and it will work just fine. That way the adapter plugs will work in both countries in the event they are different. We didnt have a problem charging the DS thru the converter.

ps. one thing you can do for your teen is for them to scope out local stores and see what games they have there for the DS as compared to the states. Bringing a semi familar game home but in a different language makes them look cool to their friends.
LC
Tn USA Thu 02/01/2007

Nintendo DS in France/Eng.
We're dragging our 12 year old (wonderful) son to England and France and wonder about keeping his Nintendo DS up and running. Will the different voltage hurt the machine? Is it best to buy an recharger there? Would it work in both England and France? (we can live without hair dryers but he needs his escape moments.)
Mary <email>
Hood River, Or USA Thu 02/01/2007

Britta: Cheap Paris hotel
Britta, we stayed at the Tiquetonne on our third trip to Paris. You can check it out on the Eurocheapo website: http://www.eurocheapo.com/paris/hotel/hotel-tiquetonne.html For 50 EUR a night you get a nice hotel with elevator and private bathroom on a charming, pedestrian only street, convenient to several Metro stops. There are many inexpensive restaurants right outside the door, filled with Parisians. From now on, we'll always stay here when in Paris. (I loved the Champs du Mars on the rue Cler, but it was WAY more touristy and expensive.)
USA Thu 02/01/2007

Re: Booking on Trenitalia's website
I was purchasing within the 60 days - still a "NO" for Como to Zurich - but ok for the other destinations.
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Thu 02/01/2007

Re: Booking on Trenitalia's website
I just bought tickets yesterday (1/31)on the site. No problems. You will get a NO if you try to buy 60 or more days from your date of travel.
Donald Davis <email>
Peoria, AZ USA Thu 02/01/2007

Re: Booking on Trenitalia's website
On Trenitalia's web site, there are 3 tabs just above the "Leaving from?" box, labelled "National", "International", and "Hotel". If you request an international train and the National tab is selected (the default), you will always get the "NO" next to every listing. Click the "International" tab, then enter your cities and dates. It's not very obvious...
Rick <email>
Chicago, IL USA Thu 02/01/2007

Britta
For Paris hotels cheaper than those in Rick's books, go to Rough Guide or Let's Go books. I have found some real deals in these books. Check TripAdvisor for reviews of hotels/hostels so you can get some idea of what the places are like. For less money you may be climbing lots of stairs, sharing a bathroom, and staying in a room that hasn't been upgraded in a long time. Nevertheless, there are some good deals available if you look for them.
USA Thu 02/01/2007

Any Paris Hotel/Hostel ideas?
Does anyone know a cool, nice, safe and cheap hotel or hostel for a 20-something couple to stay at in Paris? It's proved to be my most difficult location to find a good deal.

Also, thank you for all the responses on my reservations issue! I know I can trust Rick Steve's following!
Britta <email>
Fargo, ND USA Thu 02/01/2007

Rome Hotel
My husband and I stayed at Hotel Sonya, in Rome. Great hotel in safe and quiet location. We paid 100 euros a night during our March 2005 trip.
Jessica
Saint Paul, MN USA Thu 02/01/2007

re: My Booking on Trenitalia post
When working with their website and selecting Como to Zurich there was always a "NO" beside the listings - never a "BUY" or add to cart. When you click on help, it explains that if you you see a "NO" you can only buy at a ticket office. Perhaps this is new?
Gela <email>
San Jose, CA USA Thu 02/01/2007

Accomadations
Any suggestions on where to stay in a safe, clean place in Rome at reasonable rates?
Irene Campbell <email>
Jensen Beach, FL USA Thu 02/01/2007

Venice water taxis
Julie, go on www.venicecard.com and click contacts on left side. You can email them you question about times. The vaporettos run at limited times at night and you might need to hire a water taxi to take you from the airport.
USA Thu 02/01/2007