Travelers Helpline: Classic View
All together, we have 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 a Rick Steves Community member with an answer...
RE: Tomorrow is the big day
Welcome home to Europe.
Hope your trip is everything you've dreamed of!
Thomas
Vienna Austria 5/22/13
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Harry Potter Warner Studio Tour
Going to Warner Bros. Studio Tour in late June. Debating just how to do it, either by taking the train and then bus to the studio or doing the Golden Tour which provides transportation as well as admission. We have allotted most of the day for this. Anyone with experience?
Mary
Vancouver, WA 5/22/13
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RE: Hotel
Well hello to you too Marianna
Suggest you be a bit more forthcoming to get some answers, how many people in room and actual price range, sorry just saying "budget" is not helpful as people have wide variances on what they consider a budget hotel price.
Also you posted this question in the "Transportation" forum, might get more answers on the "To the West " forum.
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Picking a seat on Eurostar
Shelly some trains can be very very long, I took a TGV train that took us like 5 minutes it seemed to make it to our car but Eurostars are not really that long, so don't worry about that..( unless you have some mobility problems maybe?)
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Auchwitz
I meant Auschwitz
Fred
USA
Fred
Independence, Missouri USAh 5/22/13
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Auchwitz
Can I drive from Berlin to Auchwitz?
How long will it take me?
How many miles is it?
How much will gasoline cost me?
Thaks,
Fred
Independence, Missouri USAh 5/22/13
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Civitavecchia transportation
We will be returning a Hertz rental car in Civitavecchia. What is the best way to get from their office to the port after dropping off the car? Thanks!
Ken
Yakima, WA 98908 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Er I work less then 35 hours a week and I go the places other people go... sorry working harder and longer does not always mean you come out ahead( it would be nice if life was fair like that ) but its not .
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Tomorrow is the big day
Safe travels! Have a great time. You get what the weather gods give you, so enjoy whatever it is, since nobody has any control over it.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Wengen, Switzerland
We stayed at the Hotel Baren last September. It is a nice place with great views if you get a view room. The breakfast was the best of any of the five hotels we stayed at during our trip to Switzerland. They will make a box lunch for you for a very reasonable price. The family who run s the place is very nice.
Ken
Yakima, WA 98908 5/22/13
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RE: travel from Harwich, England to Heathrow
I have no personal experience of getting from Harwich to Heathrow, but I learn a lot by researching things like this. Unfortunately, the news (link below) is not good news. Seems rather impossible to get to Heathrow by 08:30 unless your ship arrives in port in the middle of the night. You may be looking at having to change the time of your flight.
http://www.londontoolkit.com/travel/heathrow_harwich.htm
I found a car service that provides private transfer from the Harwich seaport to any Heathrow terminal. See http://www.londonheathrowtransport.co.uk/ - it's quite expensive, as one would expect, but if you are part of a group (or could get a small group together from your cruise), it might not be so bad to split the cost of a van. In the form on the right side of the screen choose 'Seaport' for question 1 and 'Airport' for question 2. It will then display drop-down menus next to those answers from which you can choose Harwich and Heathrow.
Maybe someone else will have a more hopeful response.
Good luck! It's surprising the cruise line didn't alert passengers about the need to book later outbound flights out of Heathrow.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Viewing the Matterhorn
Thanks so much!! I know it's kind of an expensive side trip, but sometimes you take what you can get.
Mac
USA 5/22/13
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RE: Rome taxi rates
Hi,
I found the taxi fares of Rome mentioned here - Rome Taxi Fares
A complete breakup of fares along with night charges is given. You may use the taxi fare calculator to calculate the rate of your trip. Hope that this will be useful to you.. :)
Tressa
Madrid 5/22/13
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RE: How Many Days In Cesky Krumlov?
Thank you guys. It sounds like we are on the right track with our planning so far.
There will be four of us that get along well and have about the same attention span on this trip. We all like the idea of using public transportation but to be honest, we'll probably rent a car for this outing. Do you think it would be possible to visit Konopiste and/or Kutna Hora on the way to and from Prague in two days? We're not above getting up early, but this is a vacation after all.
Again, thanks. Ray
Ray
Tacoma, WA 5/22/13
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RE: Tomorrow is the big day
Mme Eli,
Hope you have a great trip!
Bon Voyage!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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Tomorrow is the big day
Off to Copenhagen via Amsterdam. Direct flight from Houston, which I prefer, rather than waiting in Newark. Has to be my least favourite airport!
Weather looks okay in Copenhagen, but still chance of snow in Murren? I'm getting annoyed.
Hoping things get better by the time we get to Dijon :-)
Mme Eli
Always dreaming of Europe.. 5/22/13
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RE: Off-Beat Paris
If you're going to the Jardin du Luxembourg, try to spend time at the large children's playground. I spent a wonderful hour there once watching the kidlets play. I remember thinking how very patient and sweet and quiet (!) the slightly older children were in helping the younger children. I remember there was also a théâtre des marionnettes that I wish I had had longer to enjoy.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Making reservations
If it was me, I would make the reservations now. I don't think it's too early. One time when we were traveling to England, I had a terrible time getting a reservation in the location I wanted because there was a big horse show going on. So many were already booked. Pamela is right to check out what's going on during the time you will be there.
Sharon
Santa Rosa, CA USA 5/22/13
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Italy,
We will be flying into Naples airport end of September and are staying in Positano. The flight will have been lengthy. We are Wondering how best to travel to Amalfi? Would appreciate your suggestions.
Thank you
Denise
Denise
Maple Ridge, BC Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
christie,
One other point to mention. If you buy tickets at the station in Lauterbrunnen for the trip from Lauterbrunnen to Mürren, Schilthorn and back, they will include ALL modes of transport. You'll need to specify which route you prefer when you buy the tickets (from the two options I listed earlier).
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Northumberland
Alnwick Castle is fantastic (to visit). It's very important in the history of Northumberland and served as a powerful stronghold along the border between England and Scotland, so it's a fitting place to visit before journeying on into Scotland.
Also, Barter Books is in Alnwick. It's the used bookstore where Stuart and Mary Manley discovered the 'Keep Calm and Carry On' poster in an old box in the basement; it's become a bit of an international sensation. Google it for more information.
I like the Greycroft B&B, but everyone's taste is different and there are many choices in the town center, all with reasonable rates.
http://www.visitalnwick.org.uk/accommodation/a_bb_central.htm
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: 8-10 Night Italy Itinerary-Please Help!
Michael,
You mentioned a route from Milan to Rome. I'd suggest skipping Milan and spending your time in other parts of Italy. You could consider something along these lines.....
> Train from Lugano to Monterosso (easiest will be a departure at 10:36, arriving 15:02, one change at Milano Centrale)
> Monterosso - 3 nights (tour five towns, hike or possibly take a day trip to Porto Venere or other nearby community - boat is the easiest method, if they're operating)
> Travel to Tuscany - it would help to know where you most want to visit in Tuscany? One possibility would be two nights in Florence and one night in Siena.
> Train to Rome - 4 nights. You could possibly take a day trip to Naples, although there's LOTS to see in Rome.
At the conclusion of your trip, take the Leonardo Express from Roma Termini to FCO for your flight home (DON'T forget to validate!). If you have a very early flight, you may have to use another travel method.
Cheers!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: 8-10 Night Italy Itinerary-Please Help!
Michael,
Plan on at least 3 nights in Rome, giving you two full days, which is just a good start on touring this grand city. Given that will be the end of your trip, back up to the start and allocate the rest of your nights. (I prefer to count in nights in a location as you last day is outbound and not really a part of your available time.)
Pick Venice or the Cinque Terre. They are too far apart to do both efficiently in a short trip.
Venice is amazing: 3 nights there is good, a quick high speed train trip from Milan, BUT the CT offers a nice change of pace for you from city to seaside. If you can get accommodations, and if you like to hike, go to the CT. Spend three nights in one of the little villages.
Tuscany is a nice way to transition from the CT to Rome. Firenze is a good base without a car, but is a madhouse in summer. If you can manage a car, stay in a hilltown such as Siena, Montalcino or Montepulciano and spend 3 nights. Just pick up the car in La Spezia as you leave the CT, then return it in Firenze or Orvieto before training into Rome for your last 4 nights.
You need to act as fast as possible to secure accommodations. Once you have those set, you can contemplate pre-reserving train tickets to take advantage of discounts. Take along Rick Steves' Italy guide.
Buon viaggio!
Laurel
Rome, Italy 5/22/13
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RE: How Many Days In Cesky Krumlov?
In our experience, it took about 4 hours to leisurely see the castle and grounds behind - 4 hours to stroll every cute street in the town center - 2 hours for a great meal in one of the restaurants by the river - and that's about it. However, if you are there in warm weather and have any desire to float down the river in a raft/canoe, I would highly recommend it. It's not thrills like the Grand Canyon or anything, but it's just very pleasant and a great way to see rural Czech.
Randy
Minneapolis, MN USA 5/22/13
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RE: London 6 nights itinerary
Anne, your daughter might enjoy the V&A Museum of Childhood (FREE admission). There's an astonishing amount of variety in the Collections, but she might especially like the Dolls Houses and Miniatures. I know that 13-yr. old American girls are already into make-up and boys, but looking at the museum's website makes me think 'how could anybody not find this totally enchanting?'. It's on my list for my visit to London in September.
http://www.museumofchildhood.org.uk/collections/
http://www.museumofchildhood.org.uk/collections/dolls-houses-and-miniatures
Note that it's NOT at the location of the regular Victoria & Albert Museum in the Cromwell Road. The V&A Museum of Childhood is in East London, a short walk north of the Bethnal Green Tube station. It would take about 30-40 minutes to get there from central London.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Train travel
Janet,
The trip from Rome to Assisi is VERY easy! There are both direct trains and trains with one change (usually in Foligno). I had no trouble finding information on the Trenitalia website. When you checked the website, did you click the "Tutti i Treni" tab (grey colour)?
If you want an early start, there's a direct train departing Roma Termini at 07:58 (travel time about 2.25H, fare 9.90€). The next direct departure isn't until 14:23, but there are numerous other departures at various times with one change.
When are you going to be travelling that route?
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Sarah,
I wouldn't bother buying a SIM card in advance of your trip, as they're so very easy to buy in the U.K. Also, your friends will be able to help you get the best deal.
As Paul mentioned, you will absolutely be able to use your SIM outside of the U.K. My O2 SIM (U.K.-based) can be used worldwide (anywhere a GSM network exists).
Be sure you're clear on how to top-up when out of the U.K. Using text messages will be the cheapest, especially as received texts are usually FREE.
Cheers!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Off-Beat Paris
Especially since the Gardens and Palace are no longer a royal residence. Go Valjean et Cosette!
Bets
Bloomington 5/22/13
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RE: Marseille - stairs to Le Panier district
JER I couldn't remember clearly, so I'm going to delete my answer which was based on the photos. Being in good shape at the time, I remember no difficulty. Do you think there is more than one set of stairs?
Bets
Bloomington 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
While it is certainly true that you will not find free toilets everywhere like in the US and you should have a supply of coins available for emergencies, I think you can relax a bit. If you have a moderately secure bladder you can last at least a few hours between visits. In that time you are likely to either visit a museum (usually free), cafe or McD's (frequently free), or your own lodging (free). Our last trip to Italy was four weeks and I don't think I paid to pee a single time - and my bladder isn't young anymore. Then again, it was Italy in July and I was sweating plenty...
Randy
Minneapolis, MN USA 5/22/13
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RE: texting in Europe
Ro,
To begin with, yes, texts / SMS will work with the data roaming switched "off". Texting uses the older GPRS section of the phone rather than the data section.
However, you'll need to address a couple of other points.....
(1.) Your iPhone MAY OR MAY NOT work in Europe, depending on which model iPhone you're using and which cell network you're with. Could you provide more information on those points?
(2.) You WON'T be able to use any other SIM cards in your iPhone unless it's unlocked. Is that the case? Yes, the same card will work in both France and Italy (although the costs will be higher when not in the country where the card was purchased, as you'll be "roaming").
If your phone IS unlocked, you could also use a SIM from one of the travel phone firms (I can provide a list if you're interested).
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Northumberland
I had a good visit to Alnwick last year, and stayed at the Greycroft B&B which was very nice.
Also, not to throw another idea into the mix, but Melrose, Scotland is another nice stop. Great B&B called the Old Bank House. Melrose Abbey of course, and a 5-6 mile walk to see Dryburgh Abbey.
Adrienne
Vienna, VA 5/22/13
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RE: Train travel
They still don't have the summer schedule out yet. Just look at tomorrow's schedule and you'll have a good idea of what the schedule will be when you are there this summer.
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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RE: iPad or notebook
With that endorsement, Shelley, I'll get it too! Thanks for posting the question.
Bets
Bloomington 5/22/13
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Vaporetto dell'Arte
Has anyone used the Vaporetto dell'Arte in Venice? I have read good things about it such as it's never crowded like the regular vaporettos and it's clean and air conditioned, etc. I'm interested in using it to ride along the Grand Canal so I can take pictures but I'm wondering if it's possible to stand at the front of the vaporetto and take pictures and/or if the windows open for picture taking purposes. Can anyone advise? Thanks.
Sheron
Alta Loma, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Work hard; play hard ;)
Most of the employees who can walk away at 35 hours are doing physical labor scratching out a living, so I say all the better for them. They're unlikely to be able to go the same places most of us go.
Bets
Bloomington 5/22/13
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RE: Dragging our feet, Grenoble to Paris
I can think of more places than you have days. Do you have a car? If not, trains and bus work good too. It all depends on your interests.
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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RE: iphones in italy
AT&T international data plans are a good alternative to doing without the benefits of the iPhone. For $60 you get 300 MB of data. That isn't a large amount but it allows occasional use for finding info on places of interest, restaurants, etc. Before your trip learn how to track data use on the phone and experiment with different uses to see how data is used. I've found that map searches and emails are among the biggest data uses.
I have TomTom's GPS app for the UK which doesn't require a data feed. It has spoken directions and works pretty well. TomTom has an app for Italy as well.
Tex
Denton 5/22/13
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RE: zurich to milan by train
At Tirano, it's a 2 hour direct train to Milan. It does not show up on a lot of schedules, but you can find it at http://www.trenord.it/it/home.aspx
Its only 11.05 euro and it runs every 2 hours. They will have to transfer stations in Tirano, but will have to do this regardless of how they continue, it only a couple of blocks.
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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Hotel
Good budget hotel near metro in prague
Marianna
Seattle, Wa Usa 5/22/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
Ken, as always, THANKS! You've been a gem.
Chris - thanks so much for the links, very helpful!
christie
pleasanton 5/22/13
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RE: Viewing the Matterhorn
Go to www.bahn.com, starting Milan at 7 am they can spend 4 hours in Zermatt and get to Zurich by 7 pm. Just click the "via" box and enter Zermatt and time of stopover. 4 hours should be good if it is a nice day. If its a lousy day, skip it altogether.
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
Thanks Jim, excellent advice! Much appreciated.
christie
pleasanton 5/22/13
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RE: iPad or notebook
Best 10 bucks i have spent. I downloaded Pages and it works great! Thank you all for your tremendous help it is greatly appreciated!
Shelley
Ardrossan, Alberta Canada 5/22/13
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RE: How do you get currency?
Let's see, you and your significant other have spent $3,000.00 on airfare to Budapest and another $1,000.00 for four nights of accommodations, then there is the $200.00 a day spending budget creating a grand total of $5,000.00. The $200 a day (5 days) you got ripped off on the exchange rate and lost 5% which is $50.00 or one percent of the total cost of the trip. Oh, did I mention you could have rented an apartment for about $600 less than the hotel and that you ate dinner twice Vaci street where that $100 dinner was about twice what it would have cost two blocks off the beaten path (and probably been better); and you purchased two Budapest Cards which each cost about $25 more than what they were worth in transportation and discounts? There are many other decisions on your trip that will have a lot greater impact on the total cost than the exchange rate.
Me? I use an ATM for cash except in Hungary where I use my local bank account. In all cases I use my credit card when convenient to do so because I pay no exchange fees and it ensures I that cash is reserved for a bad situation. I agree that trying to play the exchange rate game is not worth the effort but I still try and time my transfers to Hungary but it's always a crap shoot.
Go have fun. Do what makes you the most comfortable.
James
Frisco 5/22/13
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RE: Picking a seat on Eurostar
Thanks everyone. good advice. Is it good to try to get in the higher #'s of the train car so that your closer to the front. i had read it's quite long and so to be closer to the front is better when your getting off. I'm sure these seem like strange questions but Train travel in general is all new to us. Thanks again
Shelley
Ardrossan, Alberta Canada 5/22/13
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Train travel
What stations/cities do I look for in trying to arrange train travel from Rome Termini to Assisi. I can't seem to find a route direct from Rome, so obviously I need to go somewhere in between first. I have been repeatedly trying the Trenitalia.com website with absolutely no success. I have tried regional train travel,just cannot find Rome to Assisi .
Janet
Emerald Isle Usa 5/22/13
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RE: London 6 nights itinerary
Thank you everyone for your feedback! This is helping me tremendously in planning for our trip.
Anne
Leesburg 5/22/13
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RE: Northumberland
I enjoyed a day trip to Jedburgh and I know that there was more to see in the town than the Abbey, which is lovely. I think it would be a fine choice. That said, I've not been to Alnwick. : ) I did stay in Hexham which I also enjoyed. I stopped off at Durham on the way. A wonderful cathedral and an interesting town. The Venerable Bede has a shrine there.
Pam
Pamela
New York City (formerly Madison), NY USA 5/22/13
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RE: Swisspass
The Swiss have a bewildering number of pass options, and no matter how you add them up, several hundred francs will exit your wallet. Most people these days are opting for a half-fare card after their brain gets fried trying to come up with the optimal combination of passes and point to point tickets.
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
A few years back when we were in our late fifties my wife and I went from Prague to Krakow to Budapest to Vienna. We elected to go first class because we went on a night train on the Prague to Krakow and Krakow to Budapest legs. More time sightseeing. The first class allowed us to have a private cabin. If traveling during the day I would have opt for 2nd class. The key to me is travel light. It makes getting around sooooo much easier. You will have a great trip. Wonderful people and food. Never been to Berlin but so much to see and do in the other cities.
Steve
Also never had any problems with pick pockets or bags being lifted, although on the krakow to Budapest leg the conductor did warn us not to open the door to our cabin until the morning when we arrived. He said sometimes gypsies will board the train to rip off passengers, but no problem we were sleeping.
No one knock on our door during the night. No problem.
Steve
Odessa, Fl USA 5/22/13
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RE: Time for connecting flight
My last flight a few weeks ago had a 50 minute lay over in Frakfurt. It was Lufthansa. The plane parked on the apron right on time. They brought the bus out for us. Took forever to get the stairs in place and open the door. Bus had to stop for crossing aircraft traffic. By the time we got to the terminal we had 30 minutes to flight time. We ran to the Z gates (heading home to the states) and did all the security stuff. Fortunately our plane left 10 minutes late and everything was okay. I needed to work the next day so spending the night wasn't a good option but I was prepared if necessary.
On the way over our Lufthansa flight from Houston to Frankfurt was about an hour late arriving in Frankfurt. No problem because I had a two hour layover. Missing that connection would have meant one day of vacation lost. Still not a good option.
James
Frisco 5/22/13
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Seville to Granada
Hi -
We are wondering 1) what the best/most direct mode of transportation is to get from Seville to Granada - train looks like a slow trip. Rental car? Bus? Tour? Train?
2) I have some limitations with walking. How far away from the palace are the parking lots at the Alhambra? Is the walkway fairly level (ie cobblestones or flat) and how much of a hill to get from parking to the palace?
3) We're thinking of getting a private tour guide. Anyone have recommendations?
Planning a day trip to Granada - what are the other must-sees?
Thanks!
Joy
Visalia, Ca 5/22/13
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RE: Shopping in Istanbul
Another vote for the Aristas Bazaar next to the Blue Mosque. The stores are high quality and easy to navigate. There are some nice shops on the streets outside the Aristas Bazaar and you will enjoy the less hectic atmosphere.
Paula
Arlington, TX USA 5/22/13
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RE: Is Lille station included in Benelux-Germany rail pass?
While waiting for a definitive answer, you have options. I know in Switzerland, the Swiss pass is good to the first station outside of Switzerland. If the Benelux pass is the same, the first station outside of Belgium is Tourcoing, a suburb of Lille. So assuming Lille is not covered:
1. Buy a supplement before boarding in Brugge.
or
2. Get off at Tourcoing and take the Transpole Subway line to either Lille Europe or Lille Flandres stations, both have TGV service to Paris. Single ride ticket is 1.40 euro.
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
Specifically to the Vienna - Budapest leg there is almost no difference between first and second class as far as comfort on this leg of your trip. The difference in cost is 29 euro vs 13 euro. So the price difference is about 24 dollars. I wouldn't worry about buying in advance. I would purchase the ticket to Budapest on the day I arrive in Vienna. For bag safety I have at times hooked my carry on strap through or around something. I figure theft is a crime of opportunity and just having to unhook a strap might be enough to deter grab and run.
For the Budapest - Krakow leg I would take the Orangeways bus. That's way too long a train trip for me; and I don't do sleepers. Actually, to be honest; we call the Kempinski High Tatras hotel in Strbske Pleso and they send a car. We spend a few nights on the lake and do a little fishing nearby, then the hotel will drop you in Krakow. Its not cheap but its a splurge we like on occasion and the drive through and sightseeing in Slovakia is a pretty special
Oh, and you cant compare the Vienna to Budapest or the Budapest to Krakow to the idTGV. This is a different, but nice, class of transportation. $200 or even $150 will get you there and back a few times. If any of the legs cost much more than 25 euro you might want to make sure you have gone to the right websites.
James
Frisco 5/22/13
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RE: Kenmare/Killarney
Do you mean the town of Killarney? I think Killarney has a bit of a reputation as really overrun by tourists, factory tourism if you will. I think it is where all the big bus tours stop for its proximity to Killarney National Park. Lots of big hotels in the sprawl around town according to Rick. (If you mean a place out in the country in the proximity to the park, that's different.) We stayed in Kenmare and thought it was extremely well located for the Ring of Kerry. The town is a little too cute for its own good, but it's still in Rick's book and is a very small town so very appealing. Exactly the kind of place that goes well with a rental car. It may have been built up more since we visited in 2002 based upon what I have seen on the web. We will probably stay there again during our return visit to Ireland in 2014. I strongly recommend going to the National Park, very beautiful scenery and Muckross House is a nice stop. So in summary, my vote would be for two nights in Kenmare and skip the town of Killarney entirely.
VS
Palo Alto, CA United States 5/22/13
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travel from Harwich, England to Heathrow
I am coming back from a cruise on Aug 19th at Harwich. We need to get to Heathrow at 0830. Any recommendations about to get to Heathrow from Harwich?
Rose
Madisonville, KY USA 5/22/13
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RE: Pyrenees hiking
I don't like sleeping in the woods (or a hut for that matter) unless I have to.
That makes it loops, or hornswagling somebody into helping me preposition a car - - which is surprisingly easy.
Ed
Pensacola 5/22/13
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RE: accomodations in Monaco
We checked with the hotels that overlooked the yacht moorings and found a reasonable hotel, can't remember the name but probably the Port Palace. Upon arrival we asked for an upgrade and amazingly we got it to a really over the top room right above the yachts for around $200/night. Two nights is plenty with one afternoon and early evening holding down a table adjacent to the casino to watch the elites go in.
George
Independence, KS USA 5/22/13
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Swisspass
I will be flying into Geneva and immediately going to Lausanne. I will be there one night. Then on the Murren for two nights and Luzern for another two and finally Zurich to catch an early flight back home. Question is should I buy a Swisspass to start on the second day when I go from Lausanne to Murren (4 day pass) and buy two separate tickets to go from Geneva to Lausanne and from Luzern to Zurich? This makes the most sense to me. And should I buy the tickets an/or Swisspass prior to leaving or when I get to the station. Is it the same price either way? The individual train tickets seem reasonable on the Internet.
Thks,
Steve
Steve
Odessa, Fl USA 5/22/13
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texting in Europe
With a SIM card installed in my iPhone, will I be able to text in Europe without incurring any data roaming charges? I read Rick's article that it's best to buy a card over there. Will the same card work in France & Italy??
Ro
Anthem 5/22/13
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RE: Paris tours
Paris Greeters-free, but they'll take donations-very nice
Mike
Columbia, MO USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Sarah, it's actually better than your concern. Not only do you not get a "No service" warning, you actually get a text telling you are out of the country and how much it will cost to make a call.
Paul
Tuscaloosa, AL 5/22/13
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RE: Marseille - stairs to Le Panier district
There are indeed steep stairs to get to the top (as I can sadly vouch for since I was in Marseille recently with a somewhat-recently broken ankle). If stairs are a problem for you, the little tourist train has two routes, one is to Le Panier. The tourist trains now leave from the far north end of the Vieux Port (not near the TI, as Rick's book indicates.) I recommend both routes!
Also, be aware that the Panier area is a bit sketchy after dark, in my opinion.
JER
Seattle USA 5/22/13
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zurich to milan by train
My friends are going to be in Zurich the middle of September, heading to Milan via train. I recommended they stay in Lucerne for a night or two to recover from the plane trip. They love water and mountains. I thought they could take the Bernina Express to Lugano (pick up the bus in Tirano) but unless I have them spend the night here, they will be hauling luggage. Is there some way around this? I'm going to encourage them to pack lightly but they are in their 70s so really too much lugging around of luggage wouldn't be good. Thanks for any suggestions!
Janine
perrysville, oh usa 5/22/13
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RE: Accommodation around Arcachon
Thanks, it looks nice! In case I wanted to really scale back, has anyone had experience with the campsites around there? I remember when I was in Mykonos, someone told me you didn't even need your own tent--it was sort of communal and laid back. Do you know if there's a setup like that in the Arcachon area?
Max
Pittsburgh, PA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Pyrenees hiking
Thanks guys. This is very helpful! Bielle looks particularly nice. Is it best, do you think, to do a loop or a return back each day, or to go out for two days and then come back for two days by a different route?
Max
Pittsburgh, PA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Off-Beat Paris
Thank you, everyone, for the "moments". Although I agree that many of the magical moments are unique to time & space and cannot be duplicated, some however, can. And for those .... I thank you.
Call be a jaded romantic, but I look forward to sitting in the Luxemborg Gardens recalling the passages in Les Miserables when Jean Valjean savored his moments with Cosette.
Mr. Itchy
Bend, Oregon USA 5/22/13
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RE: The Cotswolds
Hi neighbor & VS! Thanks for all the suggestions! They are great! We are staying at The Old Bakehouse. I am so excited!
Jennifer
HOWELL, MI USA 5/22/13
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Dragging our feet, Grenoble to Paris
Hi,
We are attending a wedding in Grenoble France, We fly home from Paris about 10 days later. We are wondering if there is anyplace notable we should stop on our journey up to Paris.
Thanks,
Amy
Amy
Silver Spring, MD US 5/22/13
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Viewing the Matterhorn
My college aged kids will be traveling by train from Milan & wished to go to Zermatt to see the Matterhorn. Would they have enough time to go to Zermatt view the Matterhorn for a bit & make it to Zurich for a late arrival or should they plan a little closer evening destination.
Mac
USA 5/22/13
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RE: Making reservations
The good news too, is that your traveling after school starts in the UK. University starts later, but the school kids will be back. The one thing to check on is whether or not there are any special events going on in the cities / towns that you want to visit. Find the town website and you'll be able to see if there are any festivals. You'll probably want to go to the festival. : )
Pam
Pamela
New York City (formerly Madison), NY USA 5/22/13
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RE: To The West: Amsterdam, April
Hi George,
Enjoyed your report. Question: Who did you cruise with and how large was the boat? We are interested in a smaller type boat cruise at some point in the future. We love Amsterdam and also find Schipol easy to navigate. Thanks for any more specific info on the cruise!
Happy Travels!
Jaye
Dallas, OR USA 5/22/13
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RE: Sorrento sccommodation
Thank you Robert. I see they have numerous room types. Any recommendations on what room type to go for? I am looking at a standard single room or standard double room?
Jodie
Success, WA Australia 5/22/13
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RE: The Cotswolds
I agree Chipping Campden is a great choice. My wife and I were there just a few weeks ago! Be careful about visiting on the weekends though because although Chipping Campden was not, Burton-on-the Water and Broadway were both massively crowded. With only one night, I don't know how much you will have time to explore. We stayed two nights and wished we had another night. Three would have been just about right. In Chipping Campden, you can go for a country walk, walk right by sheep in the pasture, right in town. That said, it's a lot bigger and busier town than we expected. Of course, we have a knack for arriving in the early evening/late afternoon when it's common for even small towns to be busy with traffic. One thing to consider is that the roads to reach the town will take you longer than you might expect by checking on the web, probably 1.5X what Google Maps says. With only one night you might want to err on the side of giving yourself extra time.
VS
Palo Alto, CA United States 5/22/13
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RE: Off-Beat Paris
I agree with you Rose, the chance encounters with nice people are magical. It's happened to me so many times, just in Paris alone, I could fill a book. Remembering all those wonderful people brings back many happy memories...
Susan
Sausalito , California 5/22/13
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Zurich to Frankfurt
We will be in Zurich for a few days in September, and will have 4 - 5 days to travel from Zurich to Frankfurt. We are thinking of spending a day in Basel, and a couple of days in Strasbourg and then spending our last day in Frankfurt.
We are open to suggestions for reasonably priced hotels (there will be 6 of us), places to eat and things to do. Also, any suggestions on what time to get to and from each city to maximize our time will be extremely appreciated. The only thing we can't change is our 10:00 AM flight leaving Frankfurt.
Thank you.
Butch
Florentino
Foster City 5/22/13
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RE: Making reservations
I don't think it's too early. Maybe if more than six months out, you might wait. We usually wait until six weeks due to my indecisiveness over the itinerary, and it has cost us in terms of both money and availability of our top choices. With such a long period to stay, you may want to look into apartments. They might be willing to give you a great deal for a long term stay, assuming you mean to stay in one place after the first five day stop. I am not sure how busy it is throughout England in late September, but we have traveled in much warmer and drier places at that time of year in Europe and did not find them to be too crowded. But if you already know what you want, why not act now to get the best places.
VS
Palo Alto, CA United States 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Ditto everything Bets said. The French are a hard working bunch, both partners in the family. I've got a small group of friends/colleagues that work the same 60+ hour weeks I do and take 4-5 day weekend trips to Antibes or Tunisia and (oh gasp!) take a couple of weeks to visit the US, usually NYC, Miami, or the west coast. I think some stereotypes die a long death. Most in the western world live/work like the rest in the western world. Might be a rule for some in France, but I have yet to meet a 35 hour weeker. We all pretty much do the same thing anymore. Those that don't, fall behind, adjust, and catch up. Life and technology is fluid. The smart ones adjust and learn to run their business from an ipad poolside :)
Leslie
Atlanta, Georgia 5/22/13
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RE: How Many Days In Cesky Krumlov?
Hi Ray - Just a 1 night stay is what I would recommend. The town is small .... you'll have plenty of time to see what you want.
Jerry
Madison, WI US 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
I surprised they still invoke the bastille and march over there to bang on the walls.
It seems like she would have mentioned the national assembly or labor ministry or something.
Still, since it's all in quotes, it must have been recordered/dictated several years ago and is bound to be exactly accurate.
I suspect the lady was a nut case, just like the one in the other story about the subway confrontation.
Ed
Pensacola 5/22/13
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RE: Train Rome to Florence
The supereconomy fares will be gone, there may be a few economy fares left at odd times. Worst case you pay full fare which is 43 euro if memory serves.
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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RE: 8-10 Night Italy Itinerary-Please Help!
Thank you for everyone's thoughtful responses. I understand now that this is much too hectic of a travel plan. The good news is that I found out I actually have 10 nights, not 8! The bad news is this is making my ability to schedule more challenging. I have decided to take your advice and simplify this by location and savor each place rather than speed through it. Any itinerary suggestions starting from Milan and ending in Rome over 10 nights are greatly appreciated!
Thanks again, everyone!
Michael
Philadelphia, PA United States 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
Cost varies by city, most large train stations have coin-operated turnstiles. In Krakow it's called "2 for the Loo" (2 zloty). Piped-in music, too. Very civilized.
Zoe
Toledo, Ohio US 5/22/13
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RE: iphones in italy
To build on what Rose said, have a look at Sygic Italy which is an offline gps app. The cost is around $25 and it looks to be really nice. In addition to spoken turn-by-turn driving directions, it also has a pedestrian mode which is what I'm interested in. It won't give you spoken turn-by-turn directions in pedestrian mode but it will give you turn-by-turn directions. All Iphones have gps capability and you don't need data for gps. A gps app would be a lot less money than having to buy a free standing gps. Maybe some folks will chime in that have used offline gps apps in Italy and let us know if they had any issues that I'm not thinking of.
Sheron
Alta Loma, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
@Rose
"Conversation with a French friend several years ago:
Her: So, how many hours do you work?
Me: Oh, typically 40-44 per week, but sometimes as much as 56-60 when required.
Her: Quoi?!? Merde!! French people would riot at the Bastille if they had to work more than 35 hours!"
You do know this isn't true, I hope. Only lower-salaried workers can walk away from their jobs at 35 hours. Check on what any professional, manager, executive, educator, or business owner does and you'll find 40, 50, 60 hours, just like here.
As for vacation, clearly half the French can't afford to go away even if they have five weeks off. That's how Paris Plage began, for those who couldn't leave.
Bets
Bloomington 5/22/13
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RE: Suggested Itinerary Bristol / Wales / Cornwall
If you've got to do one, make it Cardiff. The extra seventy-five miles or so on the round trip to Swansea is just going to eat you alive.
Personal perspective. Last week I polished off what was left of walking the perimeter of the principality. It was something that happened in dribbles until I saw there was a pattern. That means I've made a bunch of visits. I really like Wales, but I just can't champion the three larger cities. I can, however, make a case for just about every town, village, and cross-roads.
Ed
Pensacola 5/22/13
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RE: iphones in italy
So if I turn off the data on the phone - I can't use it for maps - therefore I should get a GPS
Not true. You can get an app like MapsWithMe (among others) that uses maps that you download to your phone ahead of time. The built-in GPS doesn't work off cellular data, so if data is turned off, the GPS radio still works and incurs no roaming charge. That's for having visual access to a map like in a city or whatever, for finding your way around from where you're staying to points of interest, etc.
If you want your smartphone to function like a real navigation system with spoken turn-by-turn directions for driving, there are (expensive) apps for that as well, but it's a different ball of wax and others will have better advice than me.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: How Many Days In Cesky Krumlov?
Go here for photos of the two castles and C.Krum. Look for the CZ and CZ2 links at the top of the page.
http://budapestflat.shutterfly.com/
James
Frisco 5/22/13
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RE: How Many Days In Cesky Krumlov?
We drove down and visited a castle along the way, making it to C.Krum about noon. The place was a little crowded with tourists but it was still okay. Then about 3pm the population in the town was cut by more than half; the tourist busses had left and the town was magic. The next morning was also wonderful until the tourist busses reappeared about 11:00. We left at 1pm or so, then visited another castle on the way back to Prague. In C.Krum we stayed at the Hotel Dvork and got the one room with a balcony that faced the castle. Again, magical.
Ohhhh, your answer. One night was good. Sort of wished we had planned two nights. But all depends on your interests, the weather, etc. We are pretty laid back and look for a mood more than a bunch of things to check off on a list. The mood when the day tourists were gone was pretty nice in Cesky Krumlov.
James
Frisco 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Thanks for clarifying that for me. From reading other suggestions about picking up a sim card for each country, I thought that meant that the sim card for the UK area would just stop working when you traveled to another country and I would then be without any phone service. Thought maybe I'd get a "no service" message or something. I didn't realize you could still use the card while traveling. As I most likely won't use it that much on the short trips, the higher fee would not be that big of a deal.
sarah
College Station, TX 5/22/13
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RE: Train from Venice to Juan les Pins
Thanks very much. I'll go ahead and book to Milan now & get Milan to JLP later.
Richard
Kennebunk, ME USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
As for getting the SIM in advance, you can buy them off the U.K. version of ebay (another reason to have a PayPal account). Search for "ebay U.K." to find the right web page. I have not done so myself, although I have purchased top-up vouchers off ebay before. If you went that route, I'm not sure you can activate the account, however, when you're not doing so from the U.K., but I don't know for sure. If you discover you can, please post another message here to share what you learn. Thanks.
Have a good trip.
Paul
Tuscaloosa, AL 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Sarah, yikes! Your simple question sure went off track.
I agree with Ken. Get a local prepaid SIM from a U.K. company, especially for a trip of any length. I use the U.K. version of T-Mobile, but I think any of them will work pretty much the same. You can visit the companies web pages before you go and get some idea of what is offered and the costs. They're all in English, which makes it easy for most of us to navigate. Just search for "mobile u.k. phone" and then the name of the company: Orange, EE, O2, T-Mobile, Virgin, Vodafone, and others. There are web sites that will give you a list of all the companies.
Don't get a new SIM for trips outside the U.K. Just use the prepaid account you have for use in the U.K. You'll be roaming, but the companies expect you to and they make it very easy to go from country to country and still have phone and data service. Costs are regulated by the E.U. (welcome to Europe) so they aren't as outrageous as some of the charges by U.S. companies. To add credit to the account, you can buy a top-up voucher at countless shops (mobile phone shops, grocery stores, and convenience stores). Or you can buy credit online with a credit card that the companies accept (I've discovered that at least one of them accepts American Express, but not a U.S.-based VISA) or at a web site that accepts a PayPal payment (and PayPal will let you use your U.S. credit card).
Generally, incoming calls are no charge to the recipient so getting a call from the U.S. won't cost you anything. Those back in the U.S. just have to worry about finding a low cost international calling option (e.g., Skype).
(Continued . . . )
Paul
Tuscaloosa, AL 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
@Pat - The US real estate/ housing sector is one of the biggest, crookedest, tax-payer backed sham you'll ever see - thanks to mortgage securitization and other financial instruments developed by Wall Street and inept public policies and tax preferences related to housing that create perverse incentives, we had a bubble that wiped out tons of people, destroyed trillions in wealth, and caused tons of collateral damage across the entire economy. I would never classify that sector as enviable (and I didn't even mention the amount that real estate agents pocket from this opaque system, which fortunately is getting disrupted by technology).
And re: food safety - you can't have a race to the bottom with prices while enforcing safety regulations and keeping Big Food from spiking everything in sight with chemicals, salt, fat, and sugar and creating foodlike products that don't even resemble anything natural. Never mind the suffering inflicted on livestock and environmental externalities to boost profits. So I vote NO for cheap food. We've actually exported obesity around the world through our western processed diet and that's nothing to be proud of.
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
I understand and agree with the spirit of what Roberto is saying, but sometimes if you book well in advance a first class seat is like 5 euros more
We took a train from Paris to Nice ( 5.5 hours) last summer , we took the first class tickets even though I was looking at 2nd class and normally take 2nd class because they were only about 10 euros more.
Cost was 40 euros each.
On that train ride we met and befriended an American couple who had purchased their tickets only 2 weeks previously. They had paid 200 euros for their tickets. I had to show them my tickets to prove that booking 120 days in advance (idTGV ) saved us that much cash !
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Train from Venice to Juan les Pins
The problem is that Italian IC train schedule still has not been loaded yet for the summer schedule. Its only a few weeks away, so you'll just have to take it on faith that there will be trains. You could book to Milan now, knowing you can get there through Genoa, Ventimiglia, and Cannes using regional and IC trains.
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
We must the "perfect country" .
I will start.
The social programs in Sweden and Norway( childcare and maternity and paternity)
The food( and food safety rules regarding no GMOs ) of France and Italy but the prices of America.
The Canadian and Australia Medical system of health care coverage.
The cleanliness of the mountain villages of Switzeraland .
The UK gun laws and tea.
The American real estate opportunities!
The German drug treatment programs.
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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Bellagio
Interested in things to do with a family in and around Bellagio, Italy.
Marci
Mount Airy 5/22/13
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Travel by train and car
Traveling by train from Rome to Florence then need to find a relatively close Hertz location to avoid fines from driving within city limits. Can anyone recommend which departure and arrival train station we should choose? We are staying at the Courtyard Rome Central Park Via Giuseppe Moscati 7 · Rome, 00168 Italy. Also, which Hertz location is best? We are driving to Barga, Lucca then to Bellagio.
Marci
Mount Airy 5/22/13
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RE: Suggested Itinerary Bristol / Wales / Cornwall
Thank you so much David, Kate, Bob & Ed. A huge help already! So Swansea not worth the hassle? Cardiff nicer? It'll be one or the other I think.
Marie
Christchurch New Zealand 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Is that you Sarah Palin? Can you hear us from Alaska?
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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RE: iphones in italy
I have ATT. So if I turn off the data on the phone - I can't use it for maps - therefore I should get a GPS? I do know about the license and the zonas. thanks sll
sue
girdwood, ak 5/22/13
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RE: Off-Beat Paris
Somebody else's magic moment will not be yours, precisely because it was stumbled upon or happened spontaneously. On my last stay in Paris, mine happened on a side street in the Marais when I chanced upon a quiet little park in a residential street, and while sitting there an elderly Parisian walking his little dog chose to stop, sit on the bench next to me, and talk for a few minutes.
Another at a tiny crêperie when the crêpe man surreptitiously winked and wryly smiled at me while I waited a long time for the couple in front of me to finish arguing over what flavor they wanted. Another - this time in Arromanches in Normandy - when I went into a hardware store looking for something, and the proprietor closed her shop so she could walk me to her friend's shop to get the item because she didn't have what I needed.
As you can see, they all involve random, chance encounters with people.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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Making reservations
I will be flying to England this coming Sept 17 for a month's vacation. I would love to have an idea of how soon I should be making reservations for hotels and b&bs. Initially I plan to stay in Winchester for about 5 days, then going up to the Gloucester-Malmesbury-Devizes area to stay for a few weeks. So am wondering how soon I should be making reservations. I don't want to make them too early, but don't want to wait until the last minute either.
Marilyn
Eugene, Oregon USA 5/22/13
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Is Lille station included in Benelux-Germany rail pass?
As background, I am flying into Frankfurt and planning to go to Bacharach (stay the night), up to Amsterdam (stay three nights) over to Bruges (stay two nights), and down to Paris. I am thinking, with all of this train traveling, that the Benelux-Germany rail pass (€200 on Rail Europe for a Youth pass, I am 25yo) makes the most sense.
My question: is Lille-Flanders covered in the Benelux-Germany pass? I want to travel from Bruges to Paris for as little money as possible, and the itinerary I keep seeing is Bruges-Lille on IC trains, and then a small reservation fee for the TGV train from Lille to Paris. As far as I can tell, the Lille station is in France...which would not be part of the Benelux-Germany rail pass I am thinking of buying. But is it actually covered? I am hoping so, since that would mean I could use the pass to cover the Belgian IC trains to get there. I get the sense that it is covered from the language in other postings, including Rick Steves' posting describing the Benelux-Germany pass. I ask this because I don't want to get in trouble assuming that my rail pass will cover that trip only to be slapped with a fine or something. In that case, the rail pass may not be worth it financially. Thank you for the input.
And if you have any other input on saving on rail costs for my itinerary (I'm trying to avoid the reservation services of Thalys and TGV as much as possible), I'm all ears. Best, Jon
Jon
NC 5/22/13
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RE: The Cotswolds
Hi Jennifer... (neighbor:) I love Chipping Camden and think you will enjoy it. I stayed at the Volunteer Inn right on the Main street and it was a great location. Be sure to visit the tea room for Cream Tea (or coffee) Some great scones! Also a wonderful Italian restaurant right near there (can't remember name) but we went there two nights the food was so great.
Terry kathryn
Ann Arbor, Mi 5/22/13
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Train from Venice to Juan les Pins
How do I make train reservations from Venice to Juan les Pins for 24 June?
I've tried Rail Europe and Trenitalia with no results.
Richard
Kennebunk, ME USA 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
A Marxist meeting breaks out in a Rick Steves forum? Shocker...
James
Elizabethtown, Kentucky 5/22/13
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RE: Spain White hill town - Ronda
I have to agree that I loved Arcos and would definitely spend the night there. I can't remember the name of the hotel, but it was at the top and the view was amazing.
Terry kathryn
Ann Arbor, Mi 5/22/13
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RE: Off-Beat Paris
One of my favorite things to do in Paris is to spend considerable time in the Luxembourg Gardens. Some days, I spend all day there :) I love to sit and watch the Parisian neighborhood guys, that have known each other a long time, play petancque (bocce ball). I enjoy watching them interact, tease each other, greet and catch up on news (I speak French so that helps, but watching is fun too). I love sitting by the playground and watching the kids play (used to take my son there so it's also fond memories). I enjoy the cafe over by the bandstand and eating/drinking coffee. I enjoy sitting in one of the reclining chairs with my feet up on another and just relaxing, people watching and listening to French being spoken.
It's a wonderful slice of Parisian life where you're surrounded by "locals" who are there to relax and enjoy.
Susan
Sausalito , California 5/22/13
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How Many Days In Cesky Krumlov?
I'm planning an eight night vacation to the Czech Republic next Spring, mostly in Prague with a couple of day trips out of town. How many days/nights would you all recommend I allot for a relaxed visit to Cesky Krumlov? I'm thinking two days and one night. Does that sound reasonable?
Hotel recommendations in C.K. would be helpful too.
Thanks, Ray
Ray
Tacoma, WA 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
Excellent post, Roberto. I'm laughing out loud! Thanks.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: How do you get currency?
Question: Even though the Interbank rate fluctuates throughout the day for those who are trading currency, don't the banks use a set rate for ATM transactions that would likely be the closing rate from the previous business (trading) day? Are ATMs really plugged in in real time to the constantly minute-by-minute fluctuating currency exchange (trading) rates?
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: recommendation on a company for hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia
I also vote for Butterfly. www.buterflyballoon.com
Royal would be a good choice too. www.rouyalballoon.com
Ray
Tacoma, WA 5/22/13
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RE: Italy
I've only spent a couple of days in Rome, but these are my suggestions: #1 is a tour or the Coliseum. I have seen but have not walked through the Palantine Hill but it has great ruins also.
The Pantheon (it's oldness is astounding) and surrounding area is wonderful, as is sitting at an outdoor cafe and having some wonderful pasta and pizza virtually anywhere in Rome. I also recommend visiting St. Peter's and going into the crypt. These are great sights even if you do not go into the Sistine Chapel. The Trevi Fountain is kind of a zoo, but worth seeing as well.
In Florence, of course, the Duomo, and perhaps your teenagers will want to climb to the top of the dome. The Uffizi Gallery, Statue of David, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza Signoria with the impressive Palazzo Vecchio are all in center of town and un-missible. The view of the entire city from the Plaza Michelangelo across the river is fantastic. Don't forget to try the wonderful gelato everywhere - just be sure you know the cost before you order, or it could be really pricey!
I know you and your family will enjoy these 2 cities!
BG
Albany, CA USA 5/22/13
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Train Rome to Florence
My husband and I will be traveling by train from Rome to Florence the evening of June 1st, 2013. We would like to spend as much time as possible in Rome and are not sure yet of what time we need to be in Florence. I have been looking at train tickets through both Italo and Trenitalia and they both have very good prices at around 20 euro each. I am wondering if these trains generally sell out or if we will be able to book for these prices near the date of travel when we know more about when we need to leave?
Thanks!
Emma
Regina, Saskatchew Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Drivers license
If your home drivers license is printed in English, and you're driving in an English-speaking country such as Ireland, you don't need an IDP.
Yet if your home drivers license has oddities like sticker renewals that still show an old expired date on the front, the rental agent might not be able to figure out whether it is a valid, non-expired license. Then they might ask for an IDP. Since that happened to me in GB, I ALWAYS recommend the IDP.
Douglas
Oak Park, Illinois 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
There are protections in some States against being fired without just cause, but there are myriad ways to justify a layoff, and corporate America knows and uses every method with great skill and finesse. 'Reorganization' or 'restructuring' or 'merger' or 'consolidation' are often (but not always) buzzwords for workforce reduction to cut labor costs, or clear out more expensive labor and bring in younger, cheaper labor.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Reservation for Trenitalia High speed train
Andre and Frank, thank so much. I will make sure that our family will be at the train station early.
Lan
San Jose, Ca Usa 5/22/13
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RE: ATM bank charges for Barcelona, Nice and Rome
While I'm all about giving people information, consider this before shopping for a new bank to avoid foreign transaction fees:
If you spend 10 days on your European vacation, and liberally withdraw cash each day, at $5 per withdrawl, you'd pay a total $50 in fees. I doubt most people withdraw cash every day, so in reality those costs will be even less.
Also, the dynamic currency converter mentioned above sometimes comes up on credit card transactions too. Always say no!
Douglas
Oak Park, Illinois 5/22/13
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Northumberland
We are staying one night in the Northumberland area on our way to Edinburgh. I was thinking about either Alnwick or Jedburg. Do you have any suggestions on where to stay and what hotel or B&B?
Jennifer
HOWELL, MI USA 5/22/13
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Public Transportation To/From Prague
I've been watching the RS Czech Republic videos of and look forward to traveling to Terezin, Kutna Hora, and/or Konopiste on day trips while spending a long week in Prague next Spring using public transportation. What can you tell me? Good idea or bad?
Thanks, Ray
Ray
Tacoma, WA 5/22/13
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RE: The Cotswolds
Thank you so much for your help! We have booked a place in Chipping Campden.
Jennifer
HOWELL, MI USA 5/22/13
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RE: Specific Schengen Q
Presumably your Study Abroad program has told you about visa requirements and how to get a visa, if needed. Here's an excellent booklet from the University of Iceland.
http://www.hi.is/files/skjol/3_6_4_2_AUKA__2_.pdf
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Italy
This site will get you a free mini-guide for those locations:
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
To elaborate.....the lines to use the WCs at Champs Elysées MickyD are infamous:) They sometimes stretch out of the building and into the street. Most of the folks in that line haven't purchased anything at the counters.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/22/13
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RE: How do you get currency?
There seem to be several things going on here. The main issue is to determine what the actual interbank exchange rate is. That's not perfectly simple since it changes constantly throughout the day. So typically the rate you get should be within about 1% of the interbank rate for that day, accounting for the variations between when you withdraw cash and when the bank posts the exchange.
I did a quick check on the market EURO to USD rates online and found the following:
The market rate was at about 1.2851 but had a range of 1.29980 - 1.28336
Rounding would show a range of 1.30 - 1.28, a difference of .02 and it's not hard to image on some days that rounded difference being in the .04-.05 range. So that can account for your rate difference.
It seems that your bank does not pad it's rate when selling you euros. That's great but rare, at least in the US. Most banks/institutions charge at least 5% over the interbank rate and can go up to 10%.
We've found here that ATM rates, even those with fees, range from 3-5% over the interbank.
There is nothing wrong with buying some cash ahead of time to have for piece of mind or an emergency.
Most of us strongly recommend against playing the currency futures markets unless you are a currency expert. Otherwise, it's just luck and gambling whether it goes up or down on you. Many unforessen conditions can affect markets at the drop of a hat. And since no one can purchase their euro at direct market costs, you have to be able to absorb your costs of buying the cash ahead of time.
Douglas
Oak Park, Illinois 5/22/13
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RE: Italy
Search Google for the most popular things to do and see in each city and lots of websites will appear, if you don't want to bother with books.
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
The chance of being ripped off by a thief in 2nd class is very remote.
The chance of being ripped off by the train company in 1st class is 100%.
The price differential you have to pay for traveling in 1st class in a trip that long is probably more than the value of your entire belongings.
It's like hiring a burglar alarm company to install and monitor your house. In the long run, unless you live in a really dangerous area rife with crime, the alarm company is going to rip you off much more than any real thief could ever do.
We have to choose who we want to be ripped off by. A poor chap that might take your money or a rich corporation that certainly will take your money.
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8-10 Night Italy Itinerary-Please Help!
I don't mind whirlwind trips, but this itinerary would even make me crazy. I would visit Tuscany and definitely Rome (as you depart from here) but have you considered adding Venice? As far as overcrowded, tourist places... those are the only places you have listed, so unless you get a car and travel off the beaten path that is what you will find...but there is a reason these places are filled with tourists:) If you want a more laid back approach for your 8 days, then spend most of the time in Tuscany with a car and just explore the little towns and villages... that is one of my favorite things to do and if you don't mind missing the 'tourist spots' you will have a great trip.
Terry kathryn
Ann Arbor, Mi 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
I'm thinking outside a heaving pub - you know, all that beer and people tend to stay longer - but then again those jumbo-sized drinks at McDonalds. People do usually eat and leave though. Food for thought...
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Specific Schengen Q
Stacie,
Make sure that you are allowed to study in Iceland w/o a student visa. Each country is different, and I'm not sure about the details for Iceland, but sometimes a country will require a visa to study there, regardless of whether you're staying for less time than a tourist visa would allow. So, even if you're only staying for 75 days, not running awry of any Schengen zone rules, and whatnot, you could still get in trouble and potentially banned/fined/deported if you don't follow their student visa rules. So, just make sure you can study there w/o a student visa.
Sarah
Canada, eh 5/22/13
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RE: Glasgow hotel convenient to Airport
Also, some hotels will give you breakfast to go if you're at B&B type establishment. Of course, you can also get some breakfast at the airport too.
Pam
Pamela
New York City (formerly Madison), NY USA 5/22/13
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RE: How do you get currency?
Again, I don't what is in your ATM rate in Canada. In the US, 15, 20 years ago it was common for the US banks to bury fees in the ATM exchange rate. A class action suit around the subject of full disclosure forced US card issues to use the actual rate that they are charged by the networks and list all fees added. Therefore the exchange rate shown on the credit/debit card statement is the rate present from the networks and is always within one percent of the interbank rate.
Lots of card issuers, especially credit union in the US, rarely charge more than 1% over the exchange rate. Now there are banks charging 3% percent and a $5 transaction. My third back up debit card does that, so it always sits in third place as back up. The other Canadians on this site can address the difference in banking practices between the US and Canada.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: iphones in italy
Sue.... If you have an AT&T iphone you need to turn off your cellular data when you leave US and do not turn it on until you are back in the US to avoid huge charges.
As far as GPS... I have driven in Italy for years without one and somehow always found my way, but a GPS is a great help in Europe as I have used one in lots of other countries, and next time I drive in Italy I will take it. Just be sure to have a paper map as well, and learn to use your GPS before you leave home.
Terry kathryn
Ann Arbor, Mi 5/22/13
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RE: Milan or Lugano
I have stayed in both...My vote would be Lugano.
Terry kathryn
Ann Arbor, Mi 5/22/13
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RE: 8-10 Night Italy Itinerary-Please Help!
You are only 33 years old, chances are you will live a long life, with time to come back. Why rush through Italy? You say " I am more interested in natural beauty, slower paced lifestyle with locals, maybe a beach day, and plenty of culture." You don't get that rushing around Italy.
Pick
A-Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast
B-Tuscany and Cinque Terre, Rome
Something like that, otherwise you are playing tag with Italy.
Lisa
White Plains, NY USA 5/22/13
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RE: International SIM cards.
We ended up going with Cellomobile, which seems to be well thought-of in other threads on this site. The call-back aspect is not that annoying and the service has worked well for us in London, France and Ireland. Our only issues have been: 1) sometimes phone gets "stuck" searching for a partner neckwork, usually fixable with restarting the phone and 2) limited customer service hours (and you pay for your customer service calls). You can reach them via email if you have internet access and can wait for assistance. We are especially pleased that the sim card doesn't expire if not used for awhile. On our most recent trip to France, we used less than $6 worth of minutes between the two of us - in the past we've purchased two €20-odd Orange sim cards, which expired after thirty days.
David
Walnut Creek 5/22/13
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RE: Suggestions for last leg of my trip
Sue... being from Michigan and also loving the water I do have to say there is nothing much that can compare to Oval Beach in Saugatuck (Lake Michigan), however while the water and dunes and dune grass may appear the same, if you give me a town where the people speak another language I can always find a reason to love it. I have a number of favorite European beach towns and always try to make time to hang out at the Sea.
Terry kathryn
Ann Arbor, Mi 5/22/13
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RE: FRA layover on a Friday 9pm, too late to get to town for a late bite?
Hi Jo, here is my flight info:
Arriving Frankfurt (FRA) Fri 14-Jun 2013 20:45 - TERMINAL 1
Departing Frankfurt (FRA) Sat 15-Jun 2013 07:00 - TERMINAL 1
Thank you so much!
craig
canada Canada 5/22/13
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RE: iphones in italy
We are just back from 9 days of wineries outside of Florence. Absolutely get a good GPS with a big screen and know how it use it well. It will be the best $100 to $150 you spend on this trip. In the Tuscany country side there are infrequent road marking and feel like you are driving in a maze.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: Buying train tickets on British National Rail
If you buy tickets on the day don't buy 2 separate singles at London and Oxford as you were suggesting in your scenario - buy a return.
A single in either direction after 9.20am costs £23.40. A return costs 10p more.
There are up to 5 trains an hour, but some of them stop a dozen times or more enroute. There are in general 2 an hour with minimal stops.
Marco
Oxford, Oxon United Kingdom 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
Perhaps we should all pool our money and open a franchise next to the McDonalds on the Champs Elysées Paris. Within 24 hours we would recoup the investment and be millionaires to boot!
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/22/13
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RE: Paris to Interlaken, Interlaken to Venice
Thank you, Sam!
Hannah
Glenview, IL USA 5/22/13
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RE: To Rest or Not to Rest...
I lived in France last year, lived in Paris part of the time and visited often, I never was bored. I loved just hanging out, taking it easy and just "being" there. Some of my favorite places are the banks of the Seine, Place des Vosges, the Marais - I never grew tired of hanging out in these places. I also loved discovering new restaurants and stores. Year round there are wonderful classical music concerts in the major churches in Paris - La Madeline, Ste. Chappelle, Notre Dame and others. You may see posters announcing them around town. Not all are free, but they are wonderful. I highly recommend taking one in.
BG
Albany, CA USA 5/22/13
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Flying to Amsterdam from Vancouver BC - when to book
I am going to Amsterdam on Oct. 1 and returning from Italy on Nov. 1 from Vancouver BC. The European leg is booked. I have been keeping an eye on the direct KLM flights for the last month. I can't figure out when to actually book a flight. Today the price dropped to $1447. Cdn. - it's been $1540 since February. How soon or late should I book a flight? I seem to get conflicting opinions on this. Can anyone help out with some insight on this?
Any help you can offer would be "much appreciated"
Thank you, Carol
Carol
Burnaby, BC Canada 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
Now that is a business that would never be outsourced, would always be needed, probably always have a potential clientele, and could be lucrative if well located and automated as much as possible. Nothing casts a pall over the hour more than being forced to use a grotty public toilet when nothing else is available. :)
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: How do you get currency?
I do always use bank-owned ATMs (Cirrus or PLUS), though I sometimes find I have a PLUS card and the airport has a Cirrus ATM.
I have to pay $2-$5 for foreign withdrawals at my bank.
And to be clear, I am not exchanging cash at a currency exchange booth, but at my bank.
By ATM rate, I mean the rate I actually got. By official rate, I mean the rate for that day when I look it up on an FX website.
I'm just finding that they don't vary in cost. I suppose it depends more on what bank account you have then ...
Also, when I begin planning my trip I start watching the currency rates and set a buy level, which often saves me on the conversion, since I can buy when it's low. In Europe, I have to take the rate at the time. (Though I obviously did this poorly on my last trip).
Carolyn
Toronto, ON Canada 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
There is also now a growing chain of boutique/design "bathroom stores" in Europe, which do nothing but provide a place to do your business for a fee, in heavily trafficked city centers. I've spotted two such locations in Amsterdam and Barcelona:
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/22/13
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RE: Train from Paris to Amsterdam via Antwerp for a Antwerp stop/day trip?
Merci Mr. Schneider!
Scott
PORTLAND, OR - Orego United States 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Sarah, if you use an offline maps app and you want the GPS to work, you need to turn Cellular Data OFF but leave Location Services ON for the app. The GPS also incurs no charges, but you will see a local cellular service name in the upper left of your screen. Just be careful not to make/receive any calls (though I think incoming calls may be no charge). I just tell people I won't be answering the phone. Then I use Skype over free WiFi if I actually need to SPEAK to someone. All my communication when I travel is via FB, Twitter, free texting via the WhatsApp app, or occasionally via Skype. I try to get off the grid as much as I can when I travel for pleasure - my life will still be there when I get back - but that's me, and your situation is different.
Best of luck and happy travels!
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Train from Paris to Amsterdam via Antwerp for a Antwerp stop/day trip?
The best way to do this is take the Thalys from Paris to Antwerp (the Thalys stops at Antwerp on it's way to Amsterdam). Visit Antwerp, and when you are ready to leave take the IC train (or Fyra if it's back in operation) to Amsterdam.
For the Thalys you need to purchase your ticket ASAP, the sooner you book the cheaper it will be: http://www.thalys.com The IC train from Antwerp to Amsterdam requires no advance reservations so you can purchase your ticket at the station in Antwerp on the day of your journey.
Check this site for schedules:
http://www.nshispeed.nl/en
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
Is everyone on this Helpline too young to remember having to pay to get into the stalls in the women's rooms in the US? You could wriggle under the door in some cases, provided you were willing to put you hands on the bathroom and your head near the bathroom floor! It was pretty common. I think it was dime it may have been a nickel. There was usually at least one free stall, but if you had to go you often couldn't wait. And then there was the question of catching the door before closes as someone came out. Just what did it say of the departing occupant who firmly closes the door behind her vs holding it open for the next poor soul. : )
See what Wikipedia has to say on the subject. Interesting to hear that it was the feminist who got rid of them here. Of course, the men in US never experienced pay toilets. Or at least they very, very rarely experienced them. : )
Pam
Pamela
New York City (formerly Madison), NY USA 5/22/13
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RE: Milan or Lugano
Stay in Lugano - it beautiful and relaxing and lots of little things to see and do. Don't waste time on a train.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: Train
There is no direct train between Prague and Milan. The best you can do is the connection with one change in Vienna and from Vienna it's an overnight train. I would look at flying.
Ilja
Seattle 5/22/13
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RE: Reservation for Trenitalia High speed train
You are good to go. All trains in Italy except for Regional trains require a reservation and it comes with the ticket. However, it is ONLY good that particular train, day and time. So if you miss the train, then you will need a new reservation and perhaps a new ticket depending on the class or level of ticket that you previous purchased. Not unlike our airlines ticket system.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Thanks Ken,
The i phone I have is currently "locked" and I am looking into the steps to get it unlocked. Not a big deal if I can't use it. I have a back up "unlocked" blackberry if I can't get my iphone unlocked.
Thanks for giving me a few names to look into. I had heard that there are "international" cards too, and thought that maybe they would be a better route for me. But I am ok with the basic UK card too and that seems to be the most recommended from other forum responses.
Sarah
sarah
College Station, TX 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
Thanks everybody, that all I wanted to hear. We are going second class.
Cat and Don
Cathy
Orange, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Parking near Venice
We always park in Mestre and take the train over the causeway. The parking is much cheaper, the train was a euro per person each way. Mestre is the last city before the causeway. Get off on either exit and follow the signs to the train station. Right across the street is a multi level parking garage. (In 2033, we parked in an open air lot that was even cheaper but my husband did not like that they parked the car and kept your keys. At the garage, you park it and take the keys with you.)
Connie
Everett, WA 5/22/13
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RE: Train
Probably not but check the train schedules at bahn.de and advancing ticket price which can be very cheap.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
@pat: Pat, I am pretty sure you would not change your beautiful Victoria for Houston. I have relatives there and I was there and believe me there is a reason why it is so cheap there. I would not trade Seattle for Houston even if they would offer me house for free there.
Ilja
Seattle 5/22/13
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RE: Cheaper Airlines
This topic is discussed in many threads, both recent and past. Have you tried using the Search field in the upper right of this page? Search for 'EasyJet fees' or 'RyanAir fees'. If your questions aren't adequately answered by doing that, return and ask with more detail about your own situation or specific concerns.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: How do you get currency?
Without question!!! The cheapest and most convenient way (at least for US citizens) is at a bank owned ATM with a debit card.
Just back from last week in Italy and all of my debit card exchange rates were within 1% of the Interbank rate - the rate most commonly used by credit and debit card networks. Looking at your data, I have not idea what you mean by ATM rate or official rate since there are a bunch of "official rates" that vary by the minute.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: Cheaper Airlines
We do carry-on only, and have had no issues with Easy Jet flights.
There are more factors involved in train vs. air than just the carrier - schedules, costs, timings and so on.
Larry
Elkins Park, PA 5/22/13
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Train from Paris to Amsterdam via Antwerp for a Antwerp stop/day trip?
Hi: First post!
Will be travelling on Monday July 29, 2013 from Paris to Amsterdam after several days in Paris and a 6 day Amsterdam stay.
I understand trains from Amsterdam to Gare du Nord in Paris go direct from Amsterdam (we are coming to Paris from Amsterdam directly from Schipol several days earlier) but am wondering the following:
1) Can we take a train from Paris to Amsterdam via Antwerp and get off for a long day trip and then back on to finish the one-way to Amsterdam? If so, IC or Thalys?
2) Would it be better and cheaper to simply by two one-way tickets for each person Paris/Antwerp and then Antwerp/Amsterdam?
The goal is to squeeze in a daytrip to Antwerp by leaving very early from Paris, stash our stuff at the train station for a long day in Antwerp and then take a late night train to Amsterdam so we can sandwich in Antwerp.
Thanks in advance FOR ALL info...we have lots of time until we leave in mid July.
Scott
PORTLAND, OR - Orego United States 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Rose,
Thank you so much for the helpful advice. I will check into the map aps. I had not heard of them. This could be a life saver :-).
Sarah
sarah
College Station, TX 5/22/13
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RE: Going Beyond Europe
I think a lot depends on where you go. Turkey is more than OK but Iran, Irag? Probably could not get a visa anyway. Some areas would be better if you were very experienced at foreign travel and could recognize problem situations. What are you language skills? Sometimes very useful when well off the track.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: Reservation for Trenitalia High speed train
Your reservations are already embedded in your ticket that you bought on their website.
Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
@Ceidleh - American or international corporate orgs were the furthest from my mind - more like Feds and public sector overseas (and here too) where it's very hard to remove people due to seniority rules and the like. Some of them go by the name of civil service protections.
Anyway, this is getting wayyyy off track..didn't mean to even go there.
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Buying train tickets on British National Rail
If you decide to buy tickets online from the U.S. before you leave for your trip, be sure to call your credit card company to alert them you will make an international purchase over the Web. If you don't, their fraud protection process may block your card and the transaction will fail. You would then have to contact them to ask that the block be removed.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Off-Beat Paris
Have a dinner at Le Montebello, a moderately priced bistro on the left-bank, directly opposite the side of Notre Dame. On a warm evening you can sit outside and watch the setting sun cast a rosy glow on the ancient stones. AFterwards you can stroll over to the front of the cathedral and watch the firedancers.
Cynthia
Gig Harbor, Washington USA 5/22/13
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Train
Can i take straight train from prague to milan? What is the shortest and chipset way to get to milan
Thanks
Marianna
Seattle, Wa Usa 5/22/13
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RE: Off-Beat Paris
A few places for me...
L'eglise Saint-Merri (web: http://www.saintmerri.org/) right near the Centre Pompidou.
It's an old Gothic style church that has a wonderful arty flair. There is music. There are exhibitions. There are straight-backed chairs hung up near the point of the roof, and hand-made art in the corners. It's wonderful.
La Pinte (web: http://www.la-pinte.com/fr,1,7966.html) at 13 carrefour de l'Odéon. It's a wine bar/beer bar with a wonderful owner who has fabulous taste in 70s and 80s disco, and will shave you off slices of amazing saucisson, on the house, if you belly up to the bar and make conversation. Just wonderful.
Buci News (picture on my flick stream: http://www.flickr.com/photos/38070893@N07/3547538886/) in St. Germain-des-Pres. Adorable little stationery shop, with a cheerful buttercup yellow exterior. Craveable French office supplies in abundance inside! Nice cafe right across the street.
Kira
Seattle, WA USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Not sure who is being the most snarky. This is a site to answer AND to get good travel information from some very knowledgeable travelers. If you understood the visa limitation then a simple, "I have the visa situation handled." would have ended the conversation. Scan back and you will see one young lady fined 500E for think 90 days meant 3 months - one day over. Another posting from a young man who was about 30 days over who was fine and banned for time period from returning. So visa issues are not to be taken lightly unless you like idea of being an illegal alien. Alerting you to that possibility should be appreciated even if you thought it was pushing a button.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: Buying train tickets on British National Rail
The website for tickets is here: http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/
It looks like there are 5 or more trains an hour to Oxford throughout the day so I don't think getting a seat is an issue. Advance fares (means that exact train only) are 6-10 pounds while "off peak" (any non-rush hour train) fares run 20-25 pounds and anytime fares run about 30 pounds.
I really comes down to money versus convenience. If you are willing to commit to exact trains right now you can probably able to go for <20 pounds total but if you want to take any train you feel like you'll probably pay more than that both ways.
If you charge the tickets on-line be sure to bring that same credit card because that's how you identify yourself at the automated ticket machine.
I was just in Scotland and I was able to buy "advance" tickets 24 hours before the train at the station but not 'day of' and saved about 20 pounds one way doing so. That is, however, Scotrail so I can't guarantee London runs by exactly the same rules.
Hope that helps,
=Tod
Tod
San Diego, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Switzerland
Nestor, on the Travelers helpline is a category called trip reports, there is a recent posting, you might want to read it and go back in time and see if there are any other trip reports on Switz.
Jim
Dallas, Texas USA 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Agnes: laws that protect people from losing their jobs? Sounds like you have never actually had to be involved in a corporate "re-organization". Employers are well aware of the laws that are supposed to protect workers in your Utopian world, and they are really good at manipulating whatever they need to clean house and ultimately hire who they want. I work for a very large international company. In the past year they have cut hundreds of jobs in America, next on deck... Our European offices will see many let go and a number of offices shut down completely. Who are we getting to do the work? Easy. It's all going to India. They earn about 1/2 of what their American or European counterparts make, and they work far more than 50-60 hours a week.
Ceidleh
Boston, MA United States 5/22/13
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RE: Murren/Lauterbrunnen/Wengen/Grindlewald relatively easy trails in late May?
Wow! Chris, thanks for the pan-cam links. That looks like wind-driven snow and dense fog.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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Cheaper Airlines
Hello
I had heard that it is possible get flights for cheap with RyanAir or EasyJet or similar airlines within Europe. I also heard that there could be a lot of extra fees (if you don't claim your bag, etc). Could some people share their experiences with me? Should I use these airlines, or would it be more feasible to just take a train?
Cheers!
Kyle
Halifax, NS Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Paris tours
I have also used Paris Vision tours. I took their Minivan tour to Monet's home two years ago. I really liked having such a small group. I was traveling alone and was on the tour with three other women traveling alone. If you have a few in your group, you might be the only ones on the tour. I don't remember the price, but it was very reasonable. The driver picked us up at each hotel and dropped us off at our hotels after the tour. He told lots of good information on the way there and when we arrived, told us to meet back at the van in 2 1/2 hours. That was just perfect. The other ladies spent most of the time in the museum and gift shop and i got to spend all the time i wanted in Monet's garden and home.
I plan to do a Versailles tour with them this summer. They have several options for Versailles. I like the sound of the one where the driver gives you a guided tour through the buildings and then you get two hours to roam the grounds on your own.
This company also does a Paris Lights tour in the evening - again pick up and drop off at hotel. I want to try that this trip too.
Don't miss a dinner cruise if you haven't done that.
Brenda
Carterville, Illinois United States 5/22/13
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Going Beyond Europe
Hey all
I am planning a trip to Europe after high school and I would like to go even further than Europe- maybe the Middle East or East Asia. Is that safe for a 19- year old? Which countries should I avoid? What are some interesting places to visit in those areas?
OR
Should I just forget about it because it's too dangerous?
Thanks a bunch!
Kyle
Halifax, NS Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Agnes I am sure its different in some places, LA and New York , but I watch those real estate shows and drool,,, 4 bed room houses with walk in closets , totally stainless steel kitchens, big yards, pools down the street, double sink master ensuites, houses that would go for 6 or 7 hundred thousand here at least, and they were going for under 170,000 somewhere near Austin or Housten I think,, I was almost ready to move there !
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Good restaurants in Venice
We have eaten at Locanda Montin on two trips to Venice and thought it was very good. It has been in business since the 40's. It is a bit hard to find-in the Trovaso area on a tiny canal. You can google for website and they show a map. The dining area includes a garden to dine in when the weather is nice.
Susan
Atlanta, Ga USA 5/22/13
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RE: Off-Beat Paris
I wouldn't say this place "defined" my trip, but many folks go to Paris and never even know it exists. I am talking about Arènes de Lutèce. It is an old Roman Arena. If you are walking the Latin Quarter, it is not too far to walk down to it. It is really a great experience. You can look it up online and get more information.
Be sure and check out the link tomsguidetoparis.com for many good ideas. He has several links and some are called "interesting walks" and take you to some really neat places where it is quiet and peaceful and a real touch of Parisian life.
Brenda
Carterville, Illinois United States 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
Its neither safer or more dangerous in first or second class. Keep your hand baggage with you. There are places for larger bags near doors . Some people like to get on first and make sure their bags get on bottom and back of pile, if anyone is taking anything its the bags on top and front.Others swear by takeing a bike lock and just locking bags ( loop though handles) to the train, or even to each other, no one wants to grab two bags at once .
Bag stealing is not rife, it happens on occasion, but don't over stress I keep my eye on my bag by choosing a seat near by,I choose to store bag away from doors if I can, and I like to put bag behind other bags. On occasion I have been able to keep bag beside me if train is not full, and its a smaller bag, large bags are nothing but a pain in the butt in Europe , and especially for train travel where you are lifting them, carrying them up steps and over ledges a lot.
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
The stolen bag issue is over hyped (IMO) in much the same manner that discussions about pickpockets, etc. Can it happen ? - Sure, most probably on Regional or Local trains and then very rarely. No one has ever posted (that I can remember) on this site about stolen luggage. Occasionally a friend of a cousin who knew a neighbors who son's girlfriend's parents knew someone who had bag stolen but it is not high on the list of things I worry about. Since we use carryon size only, we use the overhead racks and will clip the bag to a rib on the rack just to prevent a grab and run but we have never seen that either. We noticed that most of the European just throw their bags in the bins and the American tourist sit clutching their bags to their chest.
Technically speaking first class would be "safer" simply because of few people and everyone has to pay more to be there. We rarely ride first class unless we can get a deal. In our opinion not worth the price different but some travelers prefer the idea of first class. Second class is about equal to business class on the airline. It is not coach.
When we had put bags in the bin we do use a light weight cable lock to hook the bag together and maybe to something bigger. Again, the idea is that if they grab one bag the attached other bag should be surprise anchor.
Relax, you will be fine whatever you decide.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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Off-Beat Paris
Nobody has to hype the marquis attractions in Paris. Everyone knows what the "must-see" sights are. But often the most lasting memories are the spontaneous, off-the-wall little things we stumble upon that often define the adventure of travel.
Since my wife & I will be in Paris for s few days, I would be curious to hear about that particular attraction, street, restaurant, public square, weird shop or other place or event that defined the Paris experience for you.
As both a photographer & a traveler, I often find the trees to be an overlooked part of the forest.
Thank you kindly.
Mr. Itchy
Bend, Oregon USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8-10 Night Italy Itinerary-Please Help!
Michael,
Visiting all the locations you mentioned in an eight day time frame is going to be more than a "challenge", it will be virtually impossible (IMHO), especially as you also want to enjoy a "slower paced lifestyle with locals".
To begin with, I'd suggest skipping the Amalfi Coast, Naples and Sardinia this time, as transportation to those locations will use a lot of time (and money). An Itinerary that includes Cinque Terre, Tuscany and Rome should be relatively easy to work out.
For travel in June, I'd highly recommend getting some hotels booked SOON, especially in the Cinque Terre. That time of year is towards the end of the spring shoulder season and heading into PEAK season so it will likely be hot and crowded in Italy.
There are some "caveats" to be aware of when using the trains in Italy (and apparently in Switzerland now also). If you need further details, post another note. I'd suggest checking the websites to get some idea of the rail travel times and other pertinent details.
As this will be your first time in Italy, you may want to pack along a copy of the Italy Guidebook for reference during the trip, and also a Phrasebook. You'll be able to get along fine with English, but it's a good idea to learn a few of the common "polite words" (please, thank you, etc.).
Good luck with your planning!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Wengen, Switzerland
Meg , I have stayed in the Falken Hotel in Wengen with my 11 yr old dd and 14 other children , ranging ages 7-17. We were on a family tour with RS and it was GREAT ! Many rooms that will sleep 4 comfortably and this is not always easy to find in Europe
Simply google "reviews of Falken Hotel Wengen" and read the dozens and dozens of good reviews on tripadvisor.com
Its old and quirky but friendly and well located . We got a non view room that actually had an AMAZING view.. loved that hotel.
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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Reservation for Trenitalia High speed train
We will be traveling by trains between Milan, Venice, Florence and Rome. I have purchased my train tickets from Trenitalia website. From what I understand Freccia train is a high speed train.We will be taking Frecciabianca, FrecciaRossa, Frecciargento trains and we have already received seats assignments. Do we still need to make reservations and/or have to do anything prior to taking these trains? Any help/advise would be greatly appreciated.
Lan
San Jose, Ca Usa 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
Cathy, A few months ago someone posted their experience of having a bag stolen in first class. This got me thinking that if I were a thief, I'd target first class over second. That said, I've ridden the trains for years and never lost a bag in any class.
Others have good methods of attaching or securing their bags, so maybe they'll post.
Bets
Bloomington 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
Have seen this in many places: the attendant has a bowl/tray/basket that has all one euro coins so you are led to believe this is standard and lesser coins are not appropriate. My limit is the equivalent of .50 at the most.
Susan
Atlanta, Ga USA 5/22/13
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RE: Train from Florence to Zurich
Lola is correct. Not sure what you are trying to avoid or not avoid. The direct run is pretty scenic. I suppose it could be "more scenic" but not sure how. It is pretty to avoid scenic in Switzerland.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: iphones in italy
@Chris,
"GSM (ATT and TMobile in the US) is the primary cellular network in Italy."
Just to clarify, GSM is the only cell network in Italy, and much of the rest of the world.
Cheers!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
@Pat - only if that lovely home is in what Sarah Palin calls "the real America" or it's in very bad shape, certainly not in the Northeast or West coast.
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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RE: recommendation on a company for hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia
Great info! thanks! I will look into it!
Ivy
Houston, TX USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
sarah,
The first step you'll need to take is the check with the nearest British Consulate, and explain your circumstances to them. They will have the best and most up-to-date information on whether you'll be allowed to stay for eight months (a special Visa may be required). Unfortunately, I don't think Working Holiday Visas are available for U.S. citizens.
You should be prepared to provide documentation or bank records to show that you'll be able to support yourself for the duration of your stay, and also that you'll have adequate health care coverage.
The reference to the Schengen Rules were referring to the fact that tourists can not stay in any of the 26 countries of the Schengen zone for periods exceeding 90-days in any 180-day period. In other words, if you stay in Europe for 90-days, you have to leave for 90-days before you can return. The Schengen countries include most of Europe but not the U.K.
Regarding your cell phone question, as you have friends there they'll be able to help you get sorted with a U.K. plan when you arrive there. They will know which carriers offer the best deals. Stop by the nearest Carphone Warehouse or other Cell shop and pick up a PAYG SIM card. I always use the O2 network when travelling in Europe, but choose the one that provides the best deals. Be sure that you're clear on how to top-up, especially when travelling in other countries in Europe.
Also, be sure that the iPhone 3G is in fact "unlocked". As it was originally with AT&T, if you try it with a T-Mobile SIM card and it works fine, then you're good to go.
Be sure to check the expiry date on your Passport prior to departure, to ensure it will be valid during your trip.
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
Norma,
Is it safer in first class? Have you ridden these trains before.
Cat
Cathy
Orange, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: recommendation on a company for hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia
If you stay at the Kelebek Hotel in Goreme you get a discount on the Butterfly Balloon ride.
Charlene
Centennial, CO US 5/22/13
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Marseille - stairs to Le Panier district
I understand there are flights of steep stairs to get to the top of Le Panier. Can anybody tell me about how many?
Janet
Colorado USA 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Its so frustrating when everything seems to come back to some as "American Bashing" is this something you are taught in preschool, any criticism is "bashing".
Some things ARE better in other countries,, why is that unacceptable to admit . I know that in States I can get a lovely home for under 200 thousand dollars, here that would get me a one bedroom shoebox condo in a bad area ,its sucks but that's the way it is,, does that make me un-Canadian to wish that we had real estate our kids can afford?
I also wish we had some of the social services that they have in the Scandnavian countries,, paternity leave for a year,, that's awesome,, is it "Canadian Bashing" for me to say our paternity leave sucks... ?
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Californians are usually willing to take credit for creating trends, where credit is due, but...
The adjective snarky is first recorded in 1906. It is from dialectal British snark, meaning 'to nag, find fault with', which is probably the same word as snark, snork, meaning 'to snort, snore'. (The likely connection is the derisive snorting sound of someone who is always finding fault.) Most dictionaries label snarky as "Chiefly British Slang." But for the last five or more years, it has become increasingly common in American publications, maybe ones infiltrated by British or Canadian writers and journalists.
I have no proof, but a vague recollection that being 'snarky' in recent years may have re-emerged in New York print media, because New Yorkers have the delicious gift of witty, intellectual sarcasm. But, they're also responsible for 'Meh'..., which in and of itself is kind-of Meh. :)
(This forum software needs a flag of some sort to indicate 'Take this post with a grain of salt'.)
Sarah, sorry. My reply above is not helpful to answer your good question, so I'm editing it to say - there are apps for the iPhone, such as MapsWithMe, that work without requiring Cellular Data to be ON. You download the needed country/region beforehand and incur no roaming charges. Check it out in the App Store or Google 'offline map app Europe'. I never spend a penny using my iPhone when in Europe, even for weeks at a time.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: How do you get currency?
My credit union charges me 1% on an ATM transaction and doesn't limit the number of transactions I can make. That's how I know it's the right choice for me - it's very predictable and never exceeds 1% of total amount withdrawn.
I've never gotten cash before arriving at whatever country, and I stay away from Travelex and other rip off artists - I just use regular ATMs.
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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RE: munich to bavaria day trip
Just be aware that, while potentially possible to do, when you tour at this pace, you 1) have no "wiggle room" for anything unexpected - flat tire, bad weather,etc; and 2) you may be shorting yourself on time to really take in and appreciate some of the art works, the pretty scenery, the time to wander through interesting shops (especially in places like Oberammergau), to speak to locals, etc. And when tourists do this, they often will miss a big part of the charm of a place - miss what makes it "special." That being said, I also understand trying to get as much as possible from limited, precious vacation time. So go for it, and report back when you get home !
Laura
Drexel Hill, PA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Buying train tickets on British National Rail
You can also try Megatrain there (through their Megabus, just specify travel by train)
Larry
Elkins Park, PA 5/22/13
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RE: Spain White hill town - Ronda
Tastes vary.
We thought Ronda was nice, but were turned off by the crowds - seemed like it was completely crammed with package-tour day-trippers from cruise ships and the Costa del Tourismo who were considering this their "day in Spain". We spent the night. The crowds lessened after dark, but it still seemed crowded and overwhelmed to us.
On the other hand, we also spent the night in Arcos and were totally in love with the place - we preferred it over Ronda by far - no comparison.
We found that the contrast between day and night in Arcos was tremendous - yes, there were tourists in Arcos during the day, but at night, the place was completely empty and completely magical - one of the highlights of our trip. By comparison, Ronda seemed crowded day and night.
If you go to Arcos, by all means, spend the night.
I'm sure you can do an itinerary in either direction.
David
Seattle, WA USA 5/22/13
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RE: How do you get currency?
We've kept a log on this. Using our Capital One Hi-Yield Money market account and ATM card, we have paid from 2009 through this spring for cash at ATMs in Netherlands, Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland, Russia, Turkey, and Canada a mark-up of ~.08 of 1 percent (+/- .01 of 1 %). With no additional ATM fees (except the Canadian ATM that charged its own fee). We have always checked these calculations directly on all the withdrawals.
Now if we wanted to use our Cap One Mastercard for purchases we could do even better, as it has no fee for international usage, no interbank mark-up - the charge goes through at the exact conversion rate, and a 1% cashback on all purchases. But almost everywhere we go cash is preferred, and this way we don't worry about the card being scammed.
The trick is that in all cases, only bank owned ATMs that connect via PLUS and CIRRUS systems are used for withdrawals.
We have NEVER been unable to get cash at the point of entry into the new country (with the exception of London, where if you come in via Heathrow Terminal 5 you cannot get to a bank ATM, Travelex was allowed a monopoly on the ATMs in T-5, and their ATMs function the same as their currency exchange counters. Our son will be landing there in a couple days on his way back from semester abroad in St. Petersburg, and he has been thoroughly explained to get his cash after he gets to his friend and they can get to a real ATM.
Larry
Elkins Park, PA 5/22/13
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RE: Best German Town To Drop Off Rental Car BEFORE Switzerland
Thanks for all the advice. It looks like Konstanz makes the most sense.
Mike
los angeles, california usa 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
@Barry - Be that as it may, Europeans get more vacation time that they can use - and that's what we're talking about. And most European kids out of college don't start their careers being heavily indebted like here, so I wouldn't give too much props to our great education system which is a mini-scam (no denying we have top grad schools but at a steep price). True, everyone is replaceable (unless you have truly unique skills), but different places around the world have different laws to protect you from getting replaced. I'll be the first to admit though that the too stringent, union type deals where everyone is protected at all costs are hardly competitive and working 35 hours a week max is almost laughable for someone who is a "professional" (unless you work for yourself and don't want to commit to more hours).
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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RE: munich to bavaria day trip
Most people will tell you are trying to cram way too much into a single day. But if you are determined to do this, its theoretically possible if you leave Munich REALLY early - like 7 am. Drive west, then south to Füssen, via Steingaden. Stop there for just a few minutes to see the Wieskirche. Then on to Füssen. Do a photo op at Neuschwanstein, maybe even take the bus up the hill, and walk around, but do NOT tour the interior. Then go across to Hohenschwangau, and do an interior tour there (not sure what times tours are given in English). Grab a late lunch, then head for Linderhof. Take the tour there, then head down to Oberammergau for a late afternoon stroll around town for maybe an hour. Then drive east to Garmisch. Its a much bigger area, and has lots of places to eat. Then drive back to Munich in the evening, via autobahn, which will get you back quickly.
Laura
Drexel Hill, PA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Buying train tickets on British National Rail
The discounted fares start about 12 weeks prior to the date of travel. There are a limited number of discounted seats. I don't know if there would be any discounted fares still available for travel on Friday. I'm not even sure if Oxford would be on a discounted route (Windsor isn't, for example, but the walk-up fares for that trip are not bad). You can check this website (http://www.rail.co.uk/) to see if there are any discounted fares.
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA 5/22/13
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How do you get currency?
I am interested in how people get their currency and what they have found regarding the different methods.
I know Rick's philosophy is to use ATMs.
I'm especially curious about why not to exchange cash at the bank before you leave.
It's generally 'advertised' that you get the inter-bank rate with ATMs, but I'm not sure that's true and you have to pay a foreign transaction fee. I also like to be 100% sure I'll have some cash when I land.
I've done a bit of analysis myself, using data from my last trip (in this case euros and Canadian dollars).
exchange currency at the bank (using the rate I actually paid)
11/28/11 - bank rate 1.42, official rate 1.38, difference .04
11/29/11 - bank rate 1.42, official rate 1.37, difference .05
12/05/11 - bank rate 1.41, official rate 1.37, difference .04
03/01/11 - bank rate 1.35, official rate 1.31, difference .04
ATM withdrawals while travelling (rate paid)
05/12/12 - ATM rate 1.34, official rate 1.29, difference .05
05/16/12 - ATM rate 1.34, official rate 1.29, difference .05
05/19/12 - ATM rate 1.34, official rate 1.31, difference .03
What do you think? It seems I'm paying the same either way 3-5%, which is quite reasonable (I think 5% is standard).
Has anyone conducted a similar analysis, or have data to? Obviously this isn't everyone's area of interest ;)
Carolyn
Toronto, ON Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Difference between National and Local Trains?
Summer,
How long will your trip be? Visiting London, Paris, Nice, Madrid, Venice, Florence, Rome, and Pisa is going to take awhile. One point to keep in mind is that each time you change location, there's a cost involved in both time and money. If you're working with a "tight budget", you'll need to consider that.
You can easily visit Pisa as a day trip from Florence, so it's not necessary to stay there. The one "complication" in your Itinerary is Madrid, since it's somewhat "distant" from the other places you'll be visiting. It would be better to take a budget flight from Nice to Madrid rather than travel by train.
Working out an Itinerary for the other places should be relatively easy. Using open-jaw flights (inbound London, outbound Rome) would be the most efficient method.
Check your local Library or larger book stores to have a look at Rick's country of city-specific Guidebooks.
Good luck with your planning!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
sarah -
The reason for the seemingly oblique replies are that regulars here see a constant stream of new users dropping in and posting questions like "I'm going to Europe for 6 months, can I wear shorts in France, and where should I exchange my dollars?" (answers typically are - sure, no place, and by the way, no you're not...). Some (but not all) of the most naive new-user questions revolve around (or mention in passing) staying for months in Europe. These users are often shocked to discover that, in general, one can't simply go to Europe as a tourist and stay for many months without going through some challenging (sometimes impossible) visa application hoops. That was the reference to a Schengen joke.
That said, if I were you, I would focus first on nailing down your own visa/entry requirements for the UK. Staying there for 8 months (and making shorter trips to the Continent) might be a piece of cake, or it might be difficult or impossible (depending on your circumstances - I honestly don't know), but if it were me I'd get that 100% squared away long, long before I started worrying about the relatively trivial questions of what sim card to use.
David
Seattle, WA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Give me a break, some of the latest posts make it sound like Europe is some type of Utopian workplace, we know it's not. Isn't there ia bit of an unemployment problem there as we speak? And to say Americans are have no quality of life because of work is simply silly, especially on this message board where people plan and talk about all their trips (many multiple trips) to Europe and other places throughout the world. The U.S. bashing gets old real quick, no place is perfect, but for the most part, probably most if not all Americans who live and work in Europe were provided with that opportunity through the U.S. education system, be it grade school, high school and our universities. A couple of months ago there was a thread asking how one could get a job in Europe, many of the North Americans who are working there responded honestly and it came across as just what it is, it's work, not an extended vacation. And don't tell me that both the husband and wife both don't work in European countries too, it's a worldwide reality, the U.S. doesn't have a monopoly on that. And last but not least, everyone is replaceable, be it the United States, Canada, Germany, Sweden, Australia. Steve Jobs was replaced and Apple is still in business making money.
Barry
San Diego, CA 5/22/13
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RE: First or Second class
Cathy, what exactly are you asking? Do we think you should travel 1st or 2nd class? Or do we think it's true that your bags may get stolen?
Norma
Montreal, Quebec Canada 5/22/13
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RE: St. Gallen and Appenzell, Switzerland and suggestions for itinerary
Laura,
Thanks for the additional information.
Appenzell is a beautiful smaller town with a unique culture, and is certainly worth a visit. However as I recall there are no Museums or other attractions. On my last visit, I was fortunate to be there during a local festival which commemorated the burning of the town 500 years ago (or something like that). It went on for the whole weekend, with medieval soldiers marching about, displays, concerts, etc. Unfortunately the weather wasn't perfect, but it was still enjoyable.
Aside from having a look at the shops in Appenzell, you could also take the cable car up to Ebenalp and have a look at the "Wild Church" built onto the side of a mountain.
Be sure to post a note in the "Trip Reports" section when you get back. I'd be interested to see how many places on your list you were actually able to get to.
Cheers!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Rural rooms in the general area around Lake Como or Maggiore
We have stayed at the Hotel Eden in Stresa on Lake Maggiore. We have also stayed at a restored monastery in Cannobio on Lake Maggiore...let me know if you would like the addresses. I can't remember the name of the Cannobio hotel at the present time but have the card at home.
karren
oklahoma city, ok usa 5/22/13
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RE: iphones in italy
@Sue, which carrier (ie. Verizon, ATT, Sprint, etc.) is your iPhone5 and is it an international version? GSM (ATT and TMobile in the US) is the primary cellular network in Italy.
Chris
St Petersburg, Florida US 5/22/13
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RE: Restaurant suggestions for Bologna
Benso and Diana are good restaurants. I can provide addresses if you desire them.
karren
oklahoma city, ok usa 5/22/13
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RE: munich to salzburg day trip
Allow about 2 hours to get to Salzburg so if you have 10 or so hours Salzburg is pretty small. Look for a walking tour of the old town (please not the sound of music tour) and hike up to the Fortress. If you have RS's guide book that would be a big help. But I would think it would be worth the drive. It will make you want to come back. I would say you can catch a decent meal and something at a cafe and wish you had another day.
Michael
Griffith, IN USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
I am not trying to be "snarky" I guess a Calif. term. If people look at the site they would see hundreds of answers to this and many other of the same type of questions. ATM and the exchange of money questions are my favorite and the answers are right on the site. Lighten up Sue from Calif.
Michael
Griffith, IN USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Grit your teef and hang in there, Sarah. Eventually you'll get some kind of answer.
One Hint: If you have kids, don't fess up to it or you're going to be told how to raise the little suckers.
Ed
Pensacola 5/22/13
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RE: iphones in italy
sue,
It would be a good idea to have a chat with your home cell network first, as they should be able to provide info on international roaming. Most offer "packages" that reduce the costs for voice, text and data but you'll have to ask them for the details. Which carrier are you with?
In order to prevent HUGE data roaming costs, you'll need to block the cellular data in your iPhone 5. I don't know if the menus for that are the same as the iPhone 4S, but you can find the switch for that in the "Settings" menus on the phone.
I prefer to use a dedicated GPS (Garmin Nüvi) rather than the iPhone, as there are no issues with data roaming.
A few points to mention regarding "driving in Tuscany".....
EACH driver will require the compulsory International Driver's Permit, which is used in conjunction with your home D.L. Failure to produce an I.D.P. if requested can result in fines on the spot! You can easily obtain an I.D.P. at any CAA / AAA office for a small fee (Passport photos required).
You'll also need to be aware of the dreaded Zona Traffico Limitato areas, which are becoming increasingly prevalent in Italy ( especially in Florence). Passing through these zones can result in expensive fines! Recent posts here would seem to indicate that authorities in Italy are becoming more aggressive in collecting the fines from foreign drivers using Collection Agencies based here. There may also be charges from the rental car firm for providing renter information to law enforcement.
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Ya, I see that. First time on and I've already pushed someones buttons :-)... Hadn't expected that.
sarah
College Station, TX 5/22/13
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First or Second class
My husband and I will travel by train from Berlin to Prague, Prague to Vienna, Vienna to Budapest and Budapest to Krakow. We are in our mid-sixties. I have been reading posts that your bags may be stolen from the trains. We will be on day trains. I have found all of the trains that we need and where to buy the tickets. We are going to on the international trains like Railjet and Eurocity. What do you think?
Don and Cat
Cathy
Orange, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Sarah, you're new - Schengen and what to wear in Paris always takes on a life of it's own.
George
Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
Thanks everyone for your comments. The information you are providing is very useful. Let me throw this out there...I also have taken up photography over the past few years, which means rather than carrying one backpack I will actually be carrying two. If you had to pick areas to travel with "extra weight" attached to getting great landscape photos, what spots would you pick around the Mediterranean? Although I've been to Italy many times, I've not been to Cinqui Terra and have that on my "bucket list". Also, I'm thinking Cappadocia would be great to photograph, and I have always dreamed of getting some photos of Petra (Jordan) as well. Thanks again for your suggestions.
Craig
Craig
Sacramento 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
yes I'm aware. I am hoping to be able to renew my visa and stay a bit longer. This is up in the air right now. My point is, I am staying longer than a week or two, which seems to be what most people are asking about. I wondered if staying longer would make a difference as to what type of sim card would best fit my needs. I didn't realize this would start a chain in a whole other direction :-)...
sarah
College Station, TX 5/22/13
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RE: Itinerary feedback - Euro trip for group of 10
Hmmmm. I was there my first time on skis, when I was in college. So I didn't do much but ride a T-Bar, but my friends (also college age and female) did the glacier run and many others, and had a great time. Maybe they have built tougher runs since then?
From Luzern they could also ski on Rigi, which seems to offer easier terrain.
Lola
Seattle, WA 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Michael, how is your snarky response helpful??
If you don't like a question... DON'T ANSWER IT!!!
Sarah, this is a legitimate website for travel questions and most people are nice and will help you. I don't have the answer re: Sim cards but others will.
Susan
Sausalito , California 5/22/13
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RE: St. Petersburg
Wow, Nancy! We were planning to eat at Palkin (TripAdvisor rates it #2 overall and #1 for best fancy restaurant) - but I've been having trouble making a reservation from the US. When I click the link from TripAdvisor, I get a strong warning to avoid the website. We actually went to my husband's Russian barber and had him call the telephone number on the Palkin website but it turned out to be a shoe store in St. Petersburg! (I might have gotten it wrong - will try again.)
Sorry, I don't want to take over this thread, but how did you make the reservation? Yes, I read that the ice cream is amazing!
Dorothy
New York City, NY 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
ok, funny. Is this a legitimate website for travel questions???
sarah
College Station, TX 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Sarah, have you researched entry requirements for the UK and Schengen zone countries? The UK only allows visitors to stay six months.
More details here:
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
How about Italy, Greece and France.
Michael
Griffith, IN USA 5/22/13
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Buying train tickets on British National Rail
Is it to my advantage to book train tickets in advance, or can I simply show up at the station and pay a reasonable sum for a ticket? I am in London right now. I would like to go to Paddington Station on Friday morning, buy a ticket that would take me to Oxford, walk around for several hours, then return to the train station in Oxford on Friday afternoon and buy a ticket back to London. Can I just do this at the ticket counter, or will it save me a lot of money to book my tickets in advance? Or are seats on the train in such high demand that I will risk having to spend the night in Oxford? Thank you!
Daniel
Saginaw, Michigan 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
Michael, last I heard, GB isn't part of Schengen.
The OP said short trips. However she will have to apply for a visa for GB for her intended 8 month stay - since it will be her base.
George
Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Train from Florence to Zurich
The main route from Milan to Zurich is the direct train via the Gotthard pass, which takes 3 hours 41 minutes. This route does go through a few tunnels, but you do see a lot of the Alps in between (if it is a clear day). A couple of the tunnels are actually spirals to gain or lose altitude. So this route climbs higher into the mountains than the route that most people take to get to the Berner Oberland, which is Milan to Brig to Spiez. that one goes through two very long and deep tunnels. You can get to Zurich that way but it takes longer than the direct train, and there is no scenery to admire as you go under the Alps..
The tird option is the most scenic, but longer. You take the train from Milan to Tirano (past Varenna on Lake Como) and change there for a Swiss train following the Bernina Express route to Chur. There may be 1-3 changes on the way. Milano to Chur takes 7 3/4 to 8 3/4 hours. From Chur it is only 1 1/2 hours or so to Zurich. This route goes over the alps, not through tunnels, (thee is one very short one). But it is very long. I suggest people break it up with an overnigh tin Pontresina if they go this way. Note that you do not have to ride the designated "Bernina Express train; you can take any of the regional trains that use the same tracks.
Lola
Seattle, WA 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
I'm sorry, your response is lost on me. What is a "schegen" joke???
sarah
College Station, TX 5/22/13
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RE: 8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
This is a schegen joke, right??
Michael
Griffith, IN USA 5/22/13
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RE: Lake Constance
Assume you've done Zurich, good option if not. Insel Mainau is close to Meersburg. Also see the Rheinfalls, they're fun. Have you been to Vaduz, it's close and you can pay 2E to get your passport stamped there, otherwise not really thrilling. Lech is a do-able day trip from there, it's a super cute town. Ulm is about the same distance and has a famous cathedral spire.
Kathy
Germany Germany 5/22/13
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RE: Murren/Lauterbrunnen/Wengen/Grindlewald relatively easy trails in late May?
Tom is using the wrong link and showing you the current weather at the Jungfraujoch.
The following two are correct ones at that altitude -
http://panocam.panomax.at/lauberhorn
http://www.swisspanorama.com/html/maennlichencam1.html
It has snowed down to 2200m today which you can see if you go back in time using the Lauberhorn HD cam.
The snow is steadily melting with some good trails at lower level already open...its all fine and the snow will start to melt at 2200m plus at the weekend.
The construction team have no been given the go ahead to build the new Piz Gloria View at the Schilthorn which needs to be open at the end of June for the opening of that and the new BOND World inside the Schilthorn.
more info on my twitter : @murrenlover
Chris
Jersey CI & Mürren CH Twitter :@murrenlover 5/22/13
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8 mo trip - best prepaid sim card to use
I live in the US, and have been invited to stay with friends outside of London for about 8 months. While I am there, I am hoping to take some short trips to possibly, Italy, Ireland, Greece and France.
I don't want to use the Verizon International calling plan because I feel the rates are way too high. I have an old I phone 3G from AT&T and am in the process of having it unlocked as I am told it is a GSM phone and can be used overseas.
My question is, would it better for me to get a local pre paid card for each country, or an international prepaid sim card so that I don't have to keep changing numbers and cards. Since I will be there for about 8 months, I know I will be meeting up with friends old and new and will need to contact them via voice or text periodically. I am not a big talker, but will need to make meet up arrangements etc.
I have done a little research, but it is pretty mind boggling. Any suggestions as to who has the best plan? Some data would be nice to look up google maps if I get lost (which is pretty much a given), but I can probably find a hot spot somewhere and use wi fi.
I also like the idea of ordering the card and setting it up before I step into the country. If my flights get held up for any reason, I will need to contact my host family to let them know my situation. Having an activated card when I hit the ground running would be very comforting.
Your thoughts???
Sarah
sarah
College Station, TX 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
There are unionized work places in "right to work" states, but the main difference is that even though you are covered by a union negotiated contract, a worker has the option not being a dues paying member of the union. This cut-off of funds hampers the union's ability to negotiate contracts, deal with grievances, and manage pension/benefit funds. Thus making collective bargaining less attractive to the masses.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/22/13
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RE: recommendation on a company for hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia
Thanks guys!
Ivy
Houston, TX USA 5/22/13
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RE: Budget for a student in Copenhagen
Thank you Sarah :)
Taylor
Merrick, NY 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
A "Right to Work" state means no union protection, ie, no recourse, as accurately pointed out. Unions are perfect either, but there is a semblance of protection as opposed to none.
Fred
San Francisco 5/22/13
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RE: Train from Florence to Zurich
Thank you Frank. I had read another link that had seemed to imply there were two routes from Milan to Zurich and one was more through the mountains with little visibility of the mountain peaks and beauty of Switzerland. Another route seemed to offer better views of mountains, though there were also tunnels. My preference was for the latter.
ANy thoughts on this.
Fred
Fred
Colorado Springs, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: Mount Vesuvius schedule and transportation advice
It closes at 5pm. Not sure if it's enough for a hike to the top.
You need to take the Vesuviana train from the central station and get off at Ercolano Scavi.
www.vesuviana.it
From the station there are buses and taxis that can take you at 1000 mts altitude.
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Lake Constance
Vanessa,
thanks for the quick reply! Any other place around the Lake that you would recommend?
Marcia
Bend, Oregon USA 5/22/13
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RE: Trains from Vienna
Hi,
Take the U-Bahn (subway) to the stop Philadelphis Brücke, then follow the signs leading to Meidling...a short walk in the underground passage.
Fred
San Francisco 5/22/13
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RE: trenitalia trains
You should have an email with your ticket trip and a PNC code that is what the conductor will want to see.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: Train from Florence to Zurich
We did the same route via Milan. Getting to Milan is so so but from there to Zurich was very nice and scenic. You will need to leave Florence fairly early to make a one day run. You will see both tunnels and mountains.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: Lake Constance
Marcia;
Yes the castle in Meersburg has a guide in English. When you purchase your ticket you can purchase the guide at the same time. I believe they do have guided tours, but we haven't ever taken one.
Good luck.
Vanessa
Kingston, Washington USA 5/22/13
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RE: 8-10 Night Italy Itinerary-Please Help!
You want to enjoy a slower-paced lifestyle and yet you want to go to seven destinations in eight nights? Pick three at most, but only after looking at a map and studying travel times between them.
Michael
Seattle, WA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Itinerary feedback - Euro trip for group of 10
Engelberg... would only recommend it for VERY experienced skiers. I've been skiing for almost 30 years, and I've never experienced such a high concentration of difficult pistes. And the conditions the day I visited were near-perfect.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/22/13
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iphones in italy
If I take my iphone 5 to italy can I block downloads that would increase my bill significantly? Also can I use it to help with directions or should I have a gps too/instead for driving in Tuscany? Obviously I'm new at all this technology. thanks sue
sue
girdwood, ak 5/22/13
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RE: munich to bavaria day trip
we are driving. what do you suggest ? what are the must see places
with the time we have?
ron
blackwood, nj 5/22/13
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RE: Milan or Lugano
I vote for Lugano, since you've never been there. Relax on the lake shore for the rest of the day.
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: St. Petersburg
Chani - This was not our experience last June. We arrived without a visa; we were never told, nor was there an expectation, that we should stay with a tour group. After all, we had no tour to stay with!?! We stayed in a local hotel, walked the neighborhood, and traveled on public transportation--bus and taxi. Of course, we left town within 72 hours as we were supposed to.
Galen
Dallas United States 5/22/13
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RE: Cheese plate in Venice (shop for)
That would be true if you were asking a random stranger for a recommendation, but the apartment owner has an incentive to see to it that you enjoy yourself. It always surprises me how often it never occurs to people to ask the owner/landlord. But totally your call, dude.
Michael
Seattle, WA USA 5/22/13
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Train from Florence to Zurich
I am looking to book train for 3 from Florence to Zurich on June 24th and would like to travel on scenic but expedient route. It appears there is a routing through Milan with change of trains in Milan. I have read other Traveler Help line response that said there is train that goes more through the mountain tunnels vs more scenic routing. I am looking for best optino that is expedient in terms of time but also scenic. Can you provide reference. I don't exactly know how to pick the train that is more scenic than through the tunnel.
I am open to other routing from Florence if I can make journey all on day of 24th June. Unfortunately my itinerary does not allow for overnight along this routing.
Sincere thank you in advance.
Fred
Fred
Colorado Springs, CO USA 5/22/13
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RE: ATM bank charges for Barcelona, Nice and Rome
Thank you all for taking the time to respond!
Pat I am with TD, and they did tell me about this account when I informed them about my trip. It's just 5k is too big of an amount for me to keep in my chequing account. I think it's time to shop around for another bank or look into a credit union.
Julia
Toronto 5/22/13
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RE: castle crowds in early june
You don't wait in line at the castles. You wait in a not-particularly-long line at the ticket counter, and your ticket assigns you to a tour group that enters the castles at set time. Obviously, the earlier you arrive, the earlier your entry time. If you have a long wait before your tour, you can while away the time by hiking along some of the trails above the castles.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/22/13
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accomodations in Monaco
we'll be in Monaco in mid September for a few days.. I've seen only one "Rick-commendation" for a place to stay (Hotel de France) but they will be booked then. Are there any other places similar to that type of place? Thanks..
DK
St. Albert Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Murren/Lauterbrunnen/Wengen/Grindlewald relatively easy trails in late May?
"Is it sticking or does it disappear then next morning?" The snow you see on the webcam is mostly left over from the winter, plus a new dusting. Although the trend at this time of year is for the snow to gradually melt, it's mostly still going to be there during your trip. And where there's no snow, you'll find plenty of mud.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/22/13
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RE: London to Bath Day Trip
One of my favorite things to do in Bath is a river cruise. You get to see the town from a different point of view and get to see a bit of the country side. The 'captain' narrates and shares some really interesting bits.
Toni
Charlotte, NC USA 5/22/13
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United cards drop FTF
Just got an email from Untied airlines...effective June 1 they are dropping foreign transaction fees from all of their United MileagePlus Explorer Cards. Yayyy!
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/22/13
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8-10 Night Italy Itinerary-Please Help!
Hello,
I just found out that my company is sending me to Lugano, Switzerland from June 19-22. I figured I might as well stay for some additional time while I'm there! I am flying out of Rome on July 2nd. I am wondering if someone can help this first-time, solo male, 33 year-old with an itinerary for the 8-10 nights I have free. I have done some research and think that I would enjoy Tuscany, Florence, Venice, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Rome and Naples. I would like to avoid incredibly long lines at museums, overcrowded tourists spots and overrated sights. I am looking for a well-balanced trip of natural beauty, slower paced lifestyle with locals, culture, but also keeping in mind that meeting new people and city life would be fun, too. I do not intend to visit all of the places listed above, but am trying to decide which would be best for a relaxing trip for a solo traveler. I am planning on my last two nights being spent in Rome.
Any help, suggestions or advice is greatly appreciated. Feel free to ask any questions, too!
Thank you!
Michael
Philadelphia, PA United States 5/22/13
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RE: Wengen, Switzerland
Hi Meg,
I have stayed at the Belvedere twice in the last two years. It is a lovely hotel, with great meals buffet style. It is quite quiet at the far end of the town, and about an 8 minute walk to the train station.
The staff are excellent and very friendly, as is the manager who every evening will visit all guests at their dinner table to enquire how they are and if they have any problems.
See my report on Trip Advisor. If you can, pay for a south facing room which has breath taking views down the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
I have no hesitation in recommending the Belvedere and look forward to my next holiday there.
Have a great trip.
John.
John
Lisburn, Co. Antrim Northern Ireland 5/22/13
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RE: trenitalia trains
If you have not closed your browser window/tab, try using your Back button to see if you can get back to the last page. Long shot, as those kinds of pages typically time out, but worth a try.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
So, I wear clothes that are clean, quality, in good repair, muted colors, tiny if any logos present and considered activewear as we do much hiking and biking in Europe. The last time we were in Paris, no one seemed to give a fig.
Bruce
Whitefish, Montana 5/22/13
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RE: Murren/Lauterbrunnen/Wengen/Grindlewald relatively easy trails in late May?
Craig we visited Wengen in August one year and loved the hikes suggested by Micheal, but locals told us that they had snow on those trails right through June that year,, so yes, May is still risky . If weather is good those are perfect hikes, very gradual trails, lovely amazing views, and a nice place to eat a lunch before you catch a ride down to Wengen . We walked the rest of the way down to Wengen following what appeared to be a goat path, lol , my knees were killing me , it took hours of switch backs, definitely take train down!
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
Rest stops in Germany- usually €0.70, and you get a €0.50 coupon to use in the restaurant. Keep plenty of 50 and 20 cent pieces.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
And congratulations to you folks on getting as much time away from work as you can in America, no matter how you have to finagle it. They work Americans like robots, 40, 50, 60 hour work weeks, no quality of life, takes both parents working to pay the bills, because wages have not kept up with productivity. The kids suffer, because Mom and Dad are exhausted, etc., etc. And there is always that small, silent undercurrent that you are replaceable.
Hear-hear, Crash. I would move to Europe in a New York minute if I could extricate myself.
Conversation with a French friend several years ago:
Her: So, how many hours do you work?
Me: Oh, typically 40-44 per week, but sometimes as much as 56-60 when required.
Her: Quoi?!? Merde!! French people would riot at the Bastille if they had to work more than 35 hours!
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
@Crash - do you mind sharing how you got a position in Germany? That sounds like a dream to me...sign me up
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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Versailles Chartres Giverny itineraries
We'll be visiting France in June 2014,we're a married couple in our 50's. Have already visited Paris several times, but want to see Versailles, Chartres and Giverny. Can anyone recommend a home base which would be convenient for train or bus travel? It looks like staying in Paris and day-tripping is the only really workable way to do it, but are looking for alternatives if any. After the third day-trip we'd like to stay on in the countryside for a few days rather than spending more time in Paris. Any suggested itineraries would be greatly appreciated, including accommodation recommendations. Merci!
Grant
Eastport 5/22/13
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RE: Hotel in Paris
Nancy ,when is trip, if its September , or June these hotels may be full but they are clean and well located budget-moderate hotels I have stayed in.
None are deluxe , all have smaller rooms as is normal for Paris , but all have A/C ( good for summer) and most have mini fridge in room. None have a concierge, or bell boys etc carry your own stuff.
Hotel Diana ( excellent location, comfy bedding)
Hotel Eugenie ( very central location, steps from Seine)
Hotel Le Regent( standard rms tiny, deluxe rooms are great)
Hotel Place Du Louvre( get the regular rooms not the duplex rooms only )
You didn't post your budget so have no idea if these fall within it For more specific answers it helps if you post your budget in Euros, everyones idea of "moderate" can vary quite a bit.
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: 17 Days in Poland
Agnes, I just sent you a PM. And to answer the transportation question, we actually relied exclusively on trains and buses to get around, no car. We've rented cars in Europe before but decided against it for this trip and it worked out pretty well.
Angela
Chicago/Rural WI 5/22/13
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Lodging in Lisbon near Praca Marques de Pomba
looking for moderately price lodging in Lisbon from June 20-27, 2013 - we are there for a conference & have lodging thru conference that costs 200 Euro per night - would like to find a better price - clean with bathroom and air conditioning - can pay +- 100 Euro - current lodging is near Praca Marques de Pomba - conference is located in - Feira Internacional de Lisboa - Parque das Nações
Lisboa - just beginning to research area - thanks you, Deb
Debra
Tucson, Arizona USA 5/22/13
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trenitalia trains
I purchased tickets directly from Trenitalia. How do I access or get my tickets? I did not sign up for an account, and I forgot to print my travel summary page--did not realize that was the last page I would see. The delivery mode is electronic ticket.
linda
long beach, ca usa 5/22/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
Nigel makes a good point which I skipped since I started day-dreaming: visas.
It can be a problem no matter which direction you're going: Arab to Isreal or Isreal to Arab. Jordan and Egypt are pretty much okay. Others can get tricky, and the Isreali immigration guys aren't dopes: they know you can get an arab visa on a separate chunk of paper, but they'll be looking for other things as well.
Folks get flat-refused. The work-around, and it's completely legal from a US standpoint, is to have two passports (I do for other reasons than are completely non-nefarious). I'd rank Isreal as being a the highlight above any of the nations that might whammy the deal . I won't lie to an immigration agent, but I'll bet you'll be asked.
This isn't the best discussion, but it's pretty close:
http://igoogledisrael.com/category/getting-to-israel/passport-visa/
Ed
Pensacola 5/22/13
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RE: London to Bath Day Trip
Jan I visited Bath for the first time by myself about 10 years ago, and I had never been to the Uk or anything..
I bought my ticket well in advance.
Once I got to Bath everything was easy peasy, its easy to walk around, I found my way to the Baths super easy and I enjoyed spending a few hours there , plus of course visiting the church and I also visited the Bath Costume Museum .
I have since been twice more, there is a lot to see really, have fun ..
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Base for the Black Forest: Triberg or Freiburg?
I'm also on foot, relying on train or bus.
Aaron
Quinlan, Texas United States 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
So let me get this straight - I've spent thousands to get across the pond where I can have a great holiday seeing and doing things I can't see/do at home, and I'm going to whinge about spending 50p for the convenience of using a comparatively clean toilet? Hmmm...taking 'budget' travel a bit too far to an extreme...?
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: 17 Days in Poland
Hi Angela, glad you had such a wonderful time. I was born and grew up in Warsaw, so it was good to hear a positive report. PM me with your blog/photos - would love to see them! I assume you got around via combination of train and car, right?
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Crash good for you, many complain about issues but you changed your life,, I am sure some people think your life must be terrible having left living in America , glad to hear you are struggling by with 5 weeks of vacation that you can take in 2 week stints.. lol
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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week in Provence- where to stay
We spent a week in Arles last year and are looking for a spot further east for next year. We are looking for a spot that makes sense. Love lavendar and just felt that the distance to Mt Ventoux and lavender and area was a little bit further than what we wanted to go for a day.
Any suggestions for a town or a B&B further east? Thx in advance, Steve and Kim
steve
minneapolis, MN 5/22/13
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RE: Base for the Black Forest: Triberg or Freiburg?
Triberg is pretty far from Freiburg and Basel for daytrips. Stay somewhere in between Triberg and Freiburg. GENGENBACH (near Offenburg) is ideal in several ways. It's a gorgeous old walled town - rare in this area. It's 1 hour from Freiburg, about 35 minutes from Triberg along the scenic BLACK FOREST RAILWAY. And staying there gets you the KONUS KARTE, a guest pass issued by all innkeepers that provides you with discounts to attractions like the Black Forest museum in Triberg AND FREE RAIL/BUS TRAVEL throughout your stay. How can you beat free daytrips to Triberg, Freiburg and Basel? It's 2 hours + to Basel from Gengenbach, but if you can arrange to see Basel prior to the BF, long-trip-problem solved.
freiburg and Triberg COULD be used as base towns. But... Freiburg doesn't offer the Konus Karte. Triberg does but its location and the location of the train station (down a steep incline, well outside the town itself) make coming and going to the other places problematic.
Russ
Paradise 5/22/13
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RE: ATM bank charges for Barcelona, Nice and Rome
In Barcelona (maybe other places) be aware of dynamic currency conversion. While you incur no ATM Fee, they may ask if you want the transaction done in Euros or Dollars or "local" or "home" currency. The difference is that if you do the transaction in Dollars or "Home" currency, they will convert the transaction into Dollars at a rate of their choosing. To do the Transaction in Euros or Local currency, Mastercard/Visa does the conversion at a much lower rate and is preferred.
I ran into this at ATMs at the Barcelona Airport, some down near the Ramblas, and even in some smaller towns we visited nearby. We also found it with a couple Spanish Bank ATMs, not just a single ATM company.
If this gets confusing, if the question pops up, then just move on to another ATM.
Paul
Cedar , IA USA 5/22/13
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RE: ATM bank charges for Barcelona, Nice and Rome
Jullaccount ie TD bank has a "Select Service " account, you have to keep a min balance in it ( 5000) but if u do it is a NO FEE account, no monthly fees no withdrawal fees ( and this INCLUDES Foreign ATMS!!) and it gives me a free safety deposit box. I have used this account for years. You could open an account there and close it after your trip if you wanted..
pat
victoria Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Wow,
What interesting reading!!
Just a few things. The United States is not a Democracy, it's a Representative Republic. Remember, "To the Republic, for Which It Stands...." A big difference.
Love it or leave it. We did. Left the states. Got fired once while on a 4 week holiday in Europe in 2001. My boss in the U.S. didn't like it one bit that I was gone for that amount of time, and replaced me with a cheaper drone. I had no recourse in a "Right to Work" state. Got back, and my office stuff was in a box. Thank you very much for your time here. Good luck finding a job. Don't let the door hit you on the way out!
Finally got a position in Germany, which took a lot of time and effort.
Because of the work I do here, I won't be taking my 5 weeks of holiday time all at once until I get a few years in my position here. Will be taking 2 week bursts of vacation, though.
And congratulations to you folks on getting as much time away from work as you can in America, no matter how you have to finagle it. They work Americans like robots, 40, 50, 60 hour work weeks, no quality of life, takes both parents working to pay the bills, because wages have not kept up with productivity. The kids suffer, because Mom and Dad are exhausted, etc., etc. And there is always that small, silent undercurrent that you are replaceable.
Just my opinion, for what it's worth.
Crash
Bopser / Baden-Wurttemberg Germany 5/22/13
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RE: 17 Days in Poland
3 nights Krakow (Nordic House Apartments): firstly, I cannot recommend Nordic House Apartments highly enough. This was my second visit to Krakow (husband's first) and the town has changed in the 8 years since I was last there. There seems to be more money there now (as evidenced by the L'Occitane on the Main Market Square), the giant mall by the train station was new to me, and it has more of a cosmopolitan feel, for lack of better description. It's a beautiful town and easy to see why it is such a popular tourist destination. We spent most of our time viewing the sights of Krakow, such as Kazimierz, Schindler's Factory, Wawel Castle Hill, and sitting in the Planty surrounding Old Town. As mentioned above, we also visited Auschwitz-Birkenau. It was my second visit and equally moving, although much more crowded. I think if we were to do it over we would have considered getting a private guide and starting well before the general tour group starting time of around 10:00 am.
2 nights Zakopane (Grand Hotel Stamary): this town sits in the foothills of the Tatra Mountains and is a popular ski destination among Poles. We didn't find the town itself to be that charming or quaint, but we took a funicular one day and cable car the next to the top of their respective hills/peaks and the mountain views were pretty spectacular.
Angela
Chicago/Rural WI 5/22/13
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RE: 17 Days in Poland
3 nights Warsaw (Sofitel Victoria Warsaw): we loved Warsaw, it is, of course, a large, bustling world capital. It's clean and full of energy and has a remarkable (and tragic) history, great restaurants, and lots to see. One of our favorite spots was Lazienki Park, a giant city park filled with lots of greenery, flowers, a palace, peacocks, and other assorted wildlife.
I kept a blog of the trip (with pictures), but since I am not supposed to disseminate that information here I will be happy to share the address if you PM me. And while I'm no expert on Poland, or anything, I'd be happy to answer any questions anyone might have on travel there.
Thanks!
Angela
Chicago/Rural WI 5/22/13
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RE: Tours in Tuscany
I second Faith's Slow Days recommendation for a wonderful day in the Tuscan countryside. Wine, lunch, incredible views, and intelligent, interesting conversation with Simon. I wish I were there again right now!
Elaine
Bellaire, TX 5/22/13
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RE: London 6 nights itinerary
The B&B in the Astor Wing at Hever Castle in Kent is a splurge place to stay for a special treat. Canopied 4-poster beds, breakfast in the castle's Great Hall, access to the castle's park-like grounds after the day visitors have gone - it's a time machine back to a past era - right up there in the same 'treat' category as a night spent on Mont-St-Michel, only far-nicer luxury accommodation and food.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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17 Days in Poland
Hello All,
My husband and I recently came back from 17 days spent in Poland. Overall it was a fantastic trip in a country rich in history and yet extremely easy on the tourist pocketbook.
The breakdown (hotels in parentheses):
4 nights Gdansk (Kobza Haus; Gotyk House): hands-down highlight in Gdansk was attending the Lechia Gdansk/Jagiellonia Bialystok football (soccer) match at the relatively new PGE Arena. I'd never been to a professional football match before. Oh. My. Word. It is an exhilarating spectacle. We also took a spin out to Malbork to visit the Teutonic Knight castle, visited Westerplatte, and spent a day split between Sopot and Gdynia, along with taking in local Gdansk sightseeing.
1 night Torun (Hotel Gromada Torun): it was a short visit to Torun but that was okay, Torun is small. We liked the vibe here and found it a very pleasant town to wander around.
3 nights Lublin (Rezydencja Waksman): oh, Lublin. Lublin doesn't get a whole lot of tourist traffic when compared to, say, Gdansk or Krakow, and it's kind of a mixed-bag. The town itself is kind of scruffy and we were hassled here a lot more than anywhere else. But we were able to pay a visit to the vast Majdanek concentration camp, which was practically empty when we were there and allowed us several hours of quiet, contemplative time (as opposed to Auschwitz-Birkenau) to take our own pace and read all of the displays. We also took a day trip to the town of Zamosc, which is picturesque as all get out and neat as a pin.
Angela
Chicago/Rural WI 5/22/13
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Base for the Black Forest: Triberg or Freiburg?
I will be in the Black Forest area from Sep 25th through the 28th. I will be coming from either Fussen, Augsburg or Basel, Switzerland, not sure yet. But I was wondering if I should stay in Triberg or Friedburg as a base for my three days in the black Forest. I know two of those days will include Friedburg and Basel. Any recommendations or advice?
Aaron
Quinlan, Texas United States 5/22/13
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RE: ATM bank charges for Barcelona, Nice and Rome
Do you have credit unions in Canada? If so, it may be worth signing up, not just for this reason - but the fact that they're not in the business of fleecing their customers in general (that's what I call charging a fee to allow you to get access to your own money).
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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RE: advice itinerary Switzerland
Boy, that's coming up fast, Nestor!!!!
It sounds like this may be your first trip to Switzerland? What caused you to pick Switzerland? What sort of things would you like to do and see in your very short trip? Does the 25th involve you landing from somewhere, or are you arriving train from France or Germany? Is the 30th a fly day or train day?
If you are flying in on the 25th, that day is to find your feet and get over jetlag, and if the 30th is a flight home that day is another goner. That leaves 4 days as I count them. Can I respectfully suggest to ditch the car and concentrate on one or at most two places, easily reached by train. All areas that most tourists go to in Switzerland are easy to get to by train, and they are cheaper than British ones. The remotest areas are reachable by Postbus, and the most vertical ones by funiculars and cable cars and gondolas.
If you are going up to the mountains many of the villages are off-limits to cars and you will need to park up and take the train or cable car into the village.
The suggestion to get guidebooks and digest them - quickly - is a most excellent one. I suggest getting on the stick.
Bern, Basel, Zurich, Lausanne, Geneva, Lugano are all significant cities of very different styles.
There are mountain areas, lakes areas, villages areas. Without knowing anything about the two of you it is virtually impossible to suggest where you should go.
If you don't want to read books, at least look at the videos and see what's on offer.
Please come back with specific questions and we do all we can to help guide you in the right direction for the two of you.
The clothes you need will depend on what you want to do and where you want to do it.
Nigel
East Midlands England 5/22/13
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RE: ATM bank charges for Barcelona, Nice and Rome
Nope, as long as it's a bank-associated ATM, not something like a Travelex machine.
Nancy
Bloomington, IL USA 5/22/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
True as observed above ...why is this particular concern about the way one dresses on vacation focused on Paris than in other cities, say in Warsaw, Munich, Vienna, or London? I dress the same regardless if I am in Vienna. London, etc., ie, neatly , decently, appropriately. But no baseball caps and polo shirts. Whether I stand out as a tourist is irrelevant, that's why I am over there. Your clothing style and mannerisms will betray you as such.
@ Shawn...A lot of local women do wear skirts.
Fred
San Francisco 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
@Lou, most McDonalds now charge also. The one in Rome was 50 Euro cents, but it was clean and modern and I really didn't mind paying.
Laurie
Edina, MN USA 5/22/13
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RE: Gemut ?
Ditto to what David said.
Lo
Tucson 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
Not necessarily, Lou. I have been in several McDonalds where you had to have the code on your purchase receipt to get into the restroom.
Nancy
Bloomington, IL USA 5/22/13
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Hotel in Paris
Can you recommend a moderately priced hotel in Paris or how to find one that will be close to the key sites? We plan to see Notre Dame, the Eiffel tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louve (sp?).
Nancy
Indianapolis, IN USA 5/22/13
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RE: London 6 nights itinerary
Depending on the dates of your trip, you may be interested in the London Walks daytrip to the Cotswolds.
http://www.walks.com/Standalone/The_Cotswolds_–_Sightseeing_Tour_–_Guided_Walking_Tour/default.aspx
Miranda
The Midwest USA 5/22/13
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RE: munich to bavaria day trip
Hey, Ron. Are you a fan of "The Amazing Race," by any chance ? Let's start from the beginning ... first of all, are you planning to drive or take the train?
Laura
Drexel Hill, PA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
Craig,
sounds like a cool trip. Ed mentioned visas, and if you are heading around counter clockwise you will need some for North Africa and the Middle East. Be careful about what you do with your Israeli visa or stamp if you will visit an Arab country after Israel, even on another trip.
You have said you are now planning on 2 months, but perhaps you or another reader will want to stray into a longer time. You should be aware of the 90 days in any 180 cumulatively in the Schengen Area of Europe restrictions. If you need more info on that, ask.
Nigel
East Midlands England 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
Bazinga!
George
Canada 5/22/13
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Lake Constance
We are in Germany- day10- staying in Oberstaufen. It has been raining the whole time and the plans for hikes and etc. have had to be cancelled. We have also had some disappointment in lack of English info in museums and things we are trying to do inside. There are some castles and museums in the areas of Meersburg and I am wondering if they have info in these in English.
Help...tomorrow is our last day!
Marcia
Bend, Oregon USA 5/22/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
From what I observed in Italy (sorry, have not been to France, but Italy is similarly fashionable) all I can generalize is that the clothes "fit right" on the person and complement their figure - they don't do sweatshirts or baggy stuff (I think that's what contributes to the sloppy look). So that's probably why they look more elegant and put together. The women wore fitted jackets, big Jackie O sunglasses (also popular here), and very nice tall heels and boots - although that may be a bit much for a regular tourist and would look silly at the tourist sites. I cannot see many men here getting away with the types of slim fitted jeans European men wear - for one thing, you cannot have a gut/muffin top hanging over your jeans. Sorry, I know that's not PC to say...
I don't think the OP's question is odd at all. You may get treated differently (i.e. better) if you look put together. And for better or worse, France has developed a reputation for elegance - that's their number one export it seems.
By the way, I don't understand the Rick's idea of devising a whole new wardrobe attachment (i.e. moneybelt) to travel in Europe or anywhere else. If you have your wallet in a purse here, I don't know why doing anything different is warranted. I think the whole thievery business is overstated - be alert - yes - but holding your money practically in your knickers seems kinda weird to me. Do Europeans bring moneybelts to the US or other European countries?
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
And then there was the lady at Innsbruck Hbf who put a 2 euro coin into what she thought was the change machine and got back a condom.
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
Christie, I'm stubborn. I decided to go up the Empire State Bld., and was told there was 0 visibility. I was stubborn and still went. Guess what ? They were right, saw absolutely nothing. However, in your case you may be lucky. Going up early is recommended. I go early for 2 reasons, it's less expensive and crowds are usually smaller. If you are based in Lauterbrunnen Valley, most Hotels have a webcam of Jungfrau and Schilthorn I believe. The Hotelier lives there, they will tell you if it's worth spending the money. If you will be there for several days your odds of having a good day go up.
Jim
Dallas, Texas USA 5/22/13
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RE: Just a reminder...
A big scandal brewing....
http://everything-pr.com/eurovision-2013-and-why-what-if-wont-ever-happen-not-ever/242637/
What a calamity!
Crash
Bopser / Baden-Wurttemberg Germany 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
My first experience with "pay to Pee" was at Amsterdam's train station. I decided to hold it and find a restroom in a nearby department store for free. Wrong. Had to pay there. In a subsequent trip to Italy I learnt the McDonald's relief plan, which is FREE. No purchase necessary.
Lou
San Jose, California U.S.A. 5/22/13
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RE: castle crowds in early june
reserve your timed tickets online so you don't even have to THINK about avoiding lines.
Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 5/22/13
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RE: Specific Schengen Q
Thanks, everyone! I was pretty sure I was in the clear I just wanted to make sure.
Oh, and the reason I didn't get a student visa is because it is actually harder to come by than it seems. The paperwork is tedious and a trip to San Fran or LA (because it has to be processed in person) would put me back about $400 that I would rather spend on my trip(:
Stacie
Renton, WA United States 5/22/13
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RE: Time for connecting flight
What Lufthansa will do for example is transfer people from plane to plane by car across the apron - although in the case of the OP this wouldn't happen as immigration is needed.
I can recall being taken in a similar manner by American Airlines in JFK - but that was many years ago.
Marco
Oxford, Oxon United Kingdom 5/22/13
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castle crowds in early june
are the lines for sleeping beauty and
hohenschwangau castle long in early june?
what is the best time to avoid the crowds if possible.
we are driving, so we can be flexible.
ron
blackwood, nj 5/22/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
Shawn, if you haven't given up yet on ever getting your questions answered, google Paris Street Fashion, and you will find links to lots of pictures showing what people are wearing on the streets of Paris. You are not likely to find the answers here.
This discussion went off the deep end a while back. I don't want to be too serious about it, since this thread is kind of fun to read. But some of the discussion seems directed at the Griswold family instead Shawn's.
Roy
Auburn, AL 5/22/13
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RE: ATM bank charges for Barcelona, Nice and Rome
No.
Ed
Pensacola 5/22/13
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munich to bavaria day trip
if we leave early from munich , is it possible without getting stressed to visit sleeping beauty ,linederhof, and hohenschwangau castle then spend some
time in Oberammergau and garmisch.
what are the must see castles ?
would like to start return to munich by 9 pm.
any suggestions ? also,where to eat dinner in this area
ron
blackwood, nj 5/22/13
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RE: London 6 nights itinerary
Even in Wales, all I can picture of things that call themselves 'castle hotels' are newer hotels built up against the wall of a ruin.
One thing you have to watch out for (look at a picture) is that the place is really a castle and not more of a palace/stately home.
There's some in Scotland. Spain and Portugal have some paradores that would fit the bill, but ...
Ed
Pensacola 5/22/13
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RE: Need advice for rental car in Tuscany
hi ken,
i think roberto is 'steering' you in the right direction. we are renting in orvieto also
rich
lake park, georgia usa 5/22/13
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Milan or Lugano
I have a short business meeting in Lugano and will have 6-8 hours downtime. Any thoughts if I stay in Milan and just daytrip for my meeting or should I stay in Lugano?
I've been to Milan once for about 3 hours on my way to Venice. Saw the Duomo and Galleria but nothing else except the train station. I've never been to Lugano.
Thanks!!
cfo314
Chicago 5/22/13
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RE: Italy
If you can get a Rick Steves Italy book - he has great suggestions
for things to do in Rome or Florence or ??? for 3 Days, 2 days, or 1 day.
It doesn't have to be the latest 2013 version of the book - even an older
one would have this info.
Maybe you can get the book at the library, or online, ebay or ?????
I really like his suggestions of things to do and all the info about
the cost of each, hours things are open, how to get there etc.
Hope you enjoy your trip to Italy
Frances
San Diego, 5/22/13
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RE: Murren/Lauterbrunnen/Wengen/Grindlewald relatively easy trails in late May?
Wow, there is still a lot of snow! Is it sticking or does it disappear then next morning? I suppose we won't be seeing alpine flowers, green pastures and cows even if the trails are walkable? We knew May is risky weatherwise but we'll make the best of it.
Ken, from the webcam link provided, it shows the following are open. Is one of them the one you are wondering about?
Männlichen: gondola Wengen-Männlichen open! | Männlichen: trail to the sumit and Spycherbar open! | Kl. Scheidegg: Wengernalp- and Jungfraubahn open! | First: the ondola is in operation
craig
canada Canada 5/22/13
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RE: London 6 nights itinerary
While Coombe Abbey is an evocative place almost exactly 100 miles from London and might meet the needs, it is not, and has never been (note the name) a castle.
Maybe others will chime in but I'm not aware of any genuine castles within a reasonable distance that can be slept in by tourists. Many are open to the public by National Trust and English Heritage, and some National Trust properties do hire out holiday lets or have private holiday lets in the grounds but not usually for one night.
Most of the rest are in private hands as private residences or attractions.
Wales has a lot more castles than southern England but is quite far.
I'd have thought for a future trip to Germany, particularly the Rhine area that castles with overnight guests would be easier to arrange.
Nigel
East Midlands England 5/22/13
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munich to salzburg day trip
in early june,we will be driving from munich to Salzburg.
if we leave early,how much can we see if we want to depart salzburg around 8 or 9 pm.
any suggestions on best sites to take in ?
ron
blackwood, nj 5/22/13
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RE: Where to stay in Athens
Hi,
My wife and I got GREAT rates at the Athens Central Square Hotel, under 50 Euros. The room was very clean with just the nicest shower design. The room comes with a breakfast buffet that will satisfy anyone's preferences. Very extensive and served in a room that looks as though it were built yesterday to Swedish design. Actually, the whole hotel was in excellent condition.
Location is a few minutes away from Monasteraki Metro station. We actually exited the station onto Athenas St, turned left and walked directly to the hotel.
Now some people have said that the area gets increasingly "seedy" as you head north toward the hotel. We found nothing seedy about it. The central vegetable market is across the street from the hotel's front door. the main street is filled with shops and venders. What the area lacks is shoulder to shoulder tourists blocking your progress.
Great value for us.
Also, have you considered airbnb?
wayne iNWI
wayner
stevens point, wi usa 5/22/13
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RE: Pyrenees hiking
Copied from my thoughts earlier in the year:
If you want to start a project that you can come back to a couple of times, think about taking on the whole GR10. There's something like a hundred and fifty thousaand feet of ascent if you hump the whole thing.
You can stay in the Gîtes d'étape or work sections and stay in regular gites.
A good place to get a taste of it is in the Pyrenees National Park, walking the cliff section around Etsaut. There's several gites in Laurns, and the little village offers more than you'd think.
The park itself is full of trails that you can use for day walks.
The Laruns TI has fairly good information.
Gedre is a smaller village that could support you that has good areas for day walks, some of which can be turned into loops.
Diane is the smartie for the area. Here's the whole thread:
http://www.ricksteves.com/graffiti/helpline/index.cfm/rurl/topic/98536/day-hike-southern-france.html
Ed
Pensacola 5/22/13
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RE: Sightseeing during airport change.
Hiring a cab to take you from Heathrow into London, drive you around, and then out to Gatwick will cost you an arm and a leg.
What you could do is take the Heathrow Express or Heathrow Connect to Paddington (15 and 30 minutes into the staation from LHR respectively), then hire a cab there to show you around for 30 - 45 minutes or so on the way to Victoria Station. Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Buckingham Palace, and other sites are all within reach, as are Big Ben and the Parlaiment buildings for a quick drive-by. At Victoria you catch the Gatwick Express (30 minutes) (check the website to make sure they aren't dooing engineering works, which they often do on Sundays. June2, for example, the Gatwick Express will not run, but there are other trains that go to Gatwick.).
Let's say you get through immigration in 30 minutes. Then you have 30 minutes (immigration line) + 30 (HR Express) + 30 (sightseeing) + 30 (GW Express), or 2 hours, leaving you 2 hours at Gaatwick and an hour of wiggle room (which is generous).
Lola
Seattle, WA 5/22/13
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ATM bank charges for Barcelona, Nice and Rome
Hello everyone -- We're leaving for our first European tour in less than two weeks! So excited =) My home bank will charge me $5 for each cash withdrawal, but will the ATMs in the above-named cities charge me as well?
Thank you.
Julia
Toronto 5/22/13
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RE: Rental car in prague
Take public transportation. I can see no advantage to renting a car. Buses are best - cheaper and a little faster than the train, but trains give you more room to move around.
The train takes 3H40M and is about 10€ per person each way, according to the Czech Rail website. Per ViaMichelin, a car will take at least 3 hours each way; it will cost 24€ each way, just for fuel, not including road tax and the cost of a day's rental.
Lee
Lakewood, Colorado 5/22/13
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Italy
Hi, I will be visiting Rome for 3 days, as well as Florence for 2 days. We are a family of four, 2 adults and 2 teenagers. All of us, including the kids like adventure, great scenery, and just roaming around and soaking up the atmosphere. Museums and history is great too. What would you recommend we do during our stay in Rome and Florence? Thanks so much!
Mansi
Hyderabad 5/22/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
Why do Americans want to look like slobs whether its New York or Rome - Los Angeles or Paris? But that being said, dress they way feel comfortable and enjoy your trip. I for one, enjoy getting dressed up and going out on the town, especially when going somewhere special like Paris!
Roxanne
Dallas, Texas USA 5/22/13
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RE: charging the rental car
I usually earmark one card for the rental and don't use it for anything else, so I don't have to worry about the amount of the hold versus my limit. I have plenty of credit cards, so that's simple. I'm not sure what the amount of the hold has been in the past, but on a recent trip to France, I don't think Europcar put much of a hold on my card even though I didn't take any CDW insurance.
Robert
Portland 5/22/13
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RE: WiFi on Trenitalia/Italo
Nigel, thank you so much for your valued input. I went ahead and created an account on Italo's website using the address of one of the B&Bs I'll be staying in. Now I'm all linked up :-). Yeah I didn't want to deal with what you did and try to get a password on the spot.
Gabriel
Pico Rivera, CA 5/22/13
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RE: Time for connecting flight
RE: "Lufthansa actively expedites its connections"
That might spur me to fly Lufthansa next time if I can. USAir apparently doesn't. On our return from France a month ago, we had a connection in Philadelphia which originally didn't seem like it would be a problem, but our flight from Paris was a little late. But it still seemed like we'd be fine after getting through customs and immigration and transferring baggage. Then when we got to security for all connecting international to domestic flights, it was a madhouse. There was someone there who might have been a US Air employee, but all he was interested in doing was making sure any of the few First Class passengers could skip the line. No attempt was made to help people with close connections. One traveler told this man he had only 30 minutes to make his flight, and the guy said: "You should be fine." He wouldn't have been, but other travelers told him to move to the front. We had almost an hour, and we only made our flight because I took matters into my own hands and asked TSA people for help. They were very accomodating, and other passengers also were understanding. Otherwise, we might still be in Philadelphia.
Robert
Portland 5/22/13
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RE: Cheese plate in Venice (shop for)
Good point, but what if it's his wierd brother in laws store and they pawn the cheap prosciutto off on tourists? Life's a risk...
Scott
Denver, CO USA 5/22/13
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Salzburg to Ljubljana to Innsbruck
Hi all,
Planning on a Christmas market trip this Dec. Wondering if staying in Ljubljana for 2 nights would be worth the "detour". From Berchtesgaden it looks like it's under 4 hours, and from Ljubljana to Innsbruck area, it looks like 5.5 hours. Don't mind driving, just wondering if 2 nights in Ljubljana would be worth the drive.
Paul
Paul
NYC area 5/22/13
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RE: Cheese plate in Venice (shop for)
Have you asked your landlord for a recommendation? They'll be the best source of info.
Michael
Seattle, WA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Switzerland trip report
I like to say that I love the beauty of Switzerland, even if the interactions with the Swiss leave something to be desired. I am reserving lots of B&Bs, hostels, and hotels in our various base cities and I am trying very hard to be complimentary and kind to the proprietors. I hope to begin with a positive impression and build on it. It may very well not work, but it is a cold person indeed who cannot respond to kindness with kindness.
We are purposefully staying in places with kitchens and I am, nerd that I am, earmarking good restaurants in each city for lunch or dinner so we can have a budget-friendly (though, not cheap I expect!) option if we don't want to cook for ourselves. Hoping that the grocery stores are good as we are counting on that! Threw some mac and cheese in the luggage, though, just in case, for the kids :).
Travel is always an adventure. I think the smoking is the thing I like least about Europe. Can't figure out why so many people still smoke, knowing how bad it is for you. They don't like our noise level, we don't like the smoke. Seems fairly even to me.
Thanks for sharing your experiences. We were wondering about the Paul Klee museum with our kids, but I think we will skip it based on your report. Very helpful!
Laura
Bellevue, WA 5/22/13
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RE: Cotswold Walks
Bob, a friend did a guided walking tour of the Cotswolds with Footpath Holidays and loved it. They also have self guided walks.
Grier
Carmel, IN 5/22/13
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RE: Good restaurants in Venice
The joke among Italians is a twist on their old saying about some restaurants: "You pay too much, but you eat well." In Venice, they say "You pay too much, but you eat poorly."
We just returned from Venice and I can recommend these two places:
Pizzeria Al Profeta in Dorsoduro, and Paradiso Perduto in Cannaregio.
Al Profeta, which has more than just pizza, has outdoor garden seating and it fills up fairly quickly. Make a reservation.
Paradiso Perduto is a major hangout for the locals, so go there if you want a fun, somewhat rowdy experience.
Michael
Seattle, WA USA 5/22/13
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RE: England: 10 days, first trip, too many choices HELP!
If you do take up the idea of a hotel near Heathrow, this webpage has excellent info about the choices, including a nifty map at the bottom. And there's mention of the FREE public bus that runs along the Bath Road where most of the hotels are situated - vs. the Hoppa bus for which there is a charge.
http://www.londontoolkit.com/travel/heathrow_hotels.htm
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Drivers license
Good to know
Lynne
Sarasota, FL usa 5/22/13
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RE: How to pay a Spanish traffic ticket?
"since its their car they are responsible"
As Nigel says, this is a zombie thread - but I had to respond to the statement above that someone made. Although a rental car does belong to the rental company, NO WAY are they responsible for your traffic violations. Think about it. If THEY were responsible, you could take a rental car and speed, park anywhere you want, violate every ZTL in Italy, etc., with no consequences to you. The rental company would rapidly go out of business from the cost of paying customers' fines.
Tom
Chicago 5/22/13
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RE: Transit and Itinerary Assistance
Perfect! I've already booked my train tickets from Rome to Orvieto (was really surprised at how inexpensive the train tickets in advance are!).... and will pick up car then in Orvieto. Think lunch and walking around Orvieto will also be on the "agenda" for the day:)
For the car drop off - I'm looking at Florence - hoping that it isn't too bad to get to the car rental locations in center. Then we'll take the fast train from Florence to Vienna.
carol
athens, gA Usa 5/22/13
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RE: Sleeping in Venice
Check out Hotel Ala in Venice. I've stayed there several years in a row and wouldn't think of going anywhere else (and I've tried 3 of Rick Steves choices). It's a Best Western property but you might get a better rate dealing directly through their web site. The vaparetto stops 50 yards from the hotel entrance ("Giglio" which is one stop before/after "Salute"). 5 minutes walk to the Accademia in one direction, 5 minutes to San Marco in the other. Amazing breakfast and the most pleasant staff.
Robert
Bordentown, NJ USA 5/22/13
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RE: Sleeping in Venice
Check out Hotel Ala in Venice. I've stayed there several years in a row and wouldn't think of going anywhere else (and I've tried 3 of Rick Steves choices). It's a Best Western property but you might get a better rate dealing directly through their web site. The vaparetto stops 50 yards from the hotel entrance ("Giglio" which is one stop before/after "Salute"). 5 minutes walk to the Accademia in one direction, 5 minutes to San Marco in the other. Amazing breakfast and the most pleasant staff.
Robert
Bordentown, NJ USA 5/22/13
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RE: London/Scotland Itinerary
Yes, I wish we had more time in Edinburgh! We will take a morning train from London to Edinburgh on the 12th and will not get in until about 1:30. So, really not even a half day. Then all day on the 13th. I had planned to stay longer but then lucked into a tee time at St Andrews for my daughter and her boyfriend on the afternoon of the 14th. That's why we are heading that way.
From St Andrews I had planned to see Culloden and Clava Cairns on the way to Inverness. Sounds like this is doable, just a long day. I don't know how else to plan it though. I really do want to spend 2 nights in one spot rather than packing up again. I would very much like to see farther north of Inverness or west. But not sure another long day in the car sounds like a good idea. Especially since after Inverness we've got a long drive to Glasgow.
I really appreciate all of your suggestions! Thank you.
Stacey
Littleton, Co 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
@Michael - would number 4 be "whatever shall I do if Rick's favorite restaurant/hotel/overlook is momentarily booked up? Think for myself ???? Oh the horror....
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/22/13
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RE: Provence hotel help!
See about Hotel Ben Vengudo very near St. Remy. It was absolutely beautiful. like out of a dream, really. i could go on.
nancy
bethesda, md us 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
So, if one needs to do a bit more than "pee" as you say, shall they leave a larger sum for the attendant? Maybe an extra tip? Dropping a deuce/pooping is quite a bit more involved after all. I didn't realize how important advance strategizing and planning as it relates to relieving oneself on his European vacation was until I started hanging out at the ole' Helpline. Now, it's number one on my personal to-do list before any trip. Actually, it's number two right behind studying the complete text of the Schengen Treaty. I think dressing and living like a local is number three. Those are probably the three most important things to do when planning a vacation.
The direct answer to your question is yes, you may have to pay in some places, and having some change available just in case the toilet you're visiting charges is a good idea. Sometimes you pay an attendant, sometimes you place the coins in a tray, sometimes you have to put them in a turnstile door before you can even enter...it varies. However, unless you're in a train station or some other place where every WC there is a pay WC, you can almost always find a free toilet somewhere when you're out on the street shopping, sight-seeing, or whatever if you're resourceful enough. Except for the occasional charge already mentioned, Europe really differs not from any very big city here in terms of finding a toilet you can use and use for free.
Michael
Des Moines, IA 5/22/13
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RE: Florence, Siena, Rome by Tour or not?
The Rick Steves guide books for Florence and Rome should be sufficient. You can always pick up the site specific guides (they make great memories). If you pre-book the museums you pretty much walk in, avoiding very long lines. Florence is beautiful, hot and muggy in July. The medieval city isn't that large so it's very easy to just walk around - there's a site worth seeing with every step. Evenings can be magical, especially if musicians are playing in front of the Duomo. Pre-booking in Rome really will save you lots of standing in line. Have a great trip!
Robert
Bordentown, NJ USA 5/22/13
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RE: St. Gallen and Appenzell, Switzerland and suggestions for itinerary
Sorry, forgot to mention timing: last two weeks in July of this year.
Laura
Bellevue, WA 5/22/13
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RE: Swiss Alps Railways
If you want to do this its doable. Go to www.sbb.ch Choose English. Go from Milano to Barcelona via a Swiss location. I tried both Lucerne and interlaken. For both it gave me routes 22hrs long but I didn't put in overnight stops. You can always choose a stop along that route to overnight it.
Joanne
Ottawa, Ontario Canada 5/22/13
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RE: St. Gallen and Appenzell, Switzerland and suggestions for itinerary
Kenthanks for the feedback. It is indeed an ambitious itinerary! Fortunately for us, we are accustomed to such a pace, and it doesn't really bother us. My husband and I, before kids, drove from Seattle to Glacier National Park to Calgary, Banff and Jasper, back to Seattle over Labor Day weekend, about 2000 miles in about 3 days! Nuts!!
I have earmarked brief hikes in Zermatt (approx. 1 hour) for the kids to get views of the Matterhorn, presuming she chooses to appear. If she doesn't, we might just hang out in Interlaken area as there is much to do. So, I am not too worried about being exhausted there. We hike around here in the mountains and everyone does well, so hoping that the Jungfrau trip won't bother the kids. My husband and I have done it before so we know we are okay.
We have elected to do base cities in Lausanne, Interlaken and Lucerne to avoid the churn of pulling up stakes and getting settled in a new place. With kids that is a ton of work. Hence, the day trip to Zermatt.
I am under no illusions that we will get to see and do everything in any of these places, but we are using the Swiss Pass so it is essentially free to go to all these wonderful museums (which we would likely skip if we had to pay out of pocket for each of them) and to take the beautiful train rides. With a 15 day pass it works out to less than $70 per day for each of the 13 days. Dare I say it, that feels cheap! It is likely the only thing that will be cheap for our trip, so I am excited about that.
I really want to check out Appenzell, but I am worried that we won't get a good feel of the place without a car. We could head up to the Rheinfall near Zurich instead, but that doesn't seem super compelling to me.
Thanks for the tips and keep 'em coming!
Laura
Bellevue, WA 5/22/13
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RE: Transit and Itinerary Assistance
Just returned from Tuscany, totally agree with David's advice on getting a car in Orvieto. It's just an hour by train outside of Rome and such a beautiful little city. We picked up the car in Florence and then dropped it in Orvieto. You could probably do it backwards. Lots of fast trains between Florence and Venice.
Rebecca
Anchorage, AK USA 5/22/13
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RE: Suggestions for last leg of my trip
Sue, at the Hotel Adornes, on the side street that the hotel faces out onto (across from the door to the bike storage), there's a large-ish white-washed building that's actually quite old. It used to be a monastery. The monks had the duty of checking the water level of the canal. If you walk 1/2-3/4 of the way across the bridge over the canal just outside the hotel's front door and look back toward the hotel, then down on the inner wall of the canal next to the bridge, you will see the relief carving of a monk holding a pole. It's something most people don't see or understand unless it's pointed out and explained. It's a bit of interesting fun to read the past history of a place by discovering little things like this. Have a wonderful time in Brugges. Try to see the Hans Memling paintings in the Sint-Janshospitaal museum.
Rose
NYC 5/22/13
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RE: Vatican Tours
Just returned from Rome. I have to say that the tour of the Vatican museum was the low point of my whole two weeks in Italy. If you can keep your group very small that would likely be a great advantage. The crowds inside the museum were absolutely overwhelming even though we were there on a Monday. Horrible and ruined the whole thing for me. Also, we ended up being in a group of 40 people! Awful! By the time we got to the Sistine Chapel (always the last stop on the tour) I was too exhausted to take it in. (By that time we had been on the tour for 3 1/2 hours! Standing, no food, drink or bathroom breaks.) Also, we were crammed in there shoulder to shoulder. I had done a lot of research on the Michaelangelo frescoes and was so looking forward to the experience. Such a let down. If I were doing it again, I would definitely look into a private guide.
We were warned before we went that the crowds were horrible, but we said, Well, we have to see the Sistine Chapel don't we? The answer for me is now, No. Would have preferred to spend my time elsewhere. There is unlimited beauty in Rome, so much to see.
Rebecca
Anchorage, AK USA 5/22/13
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RE: Need advice for rental car in Tuscany
The reason to drive instead of riding the train is that you can see a lot more and get off onto beautiful roads and lanes. We just returned from Italy and spent three days driving in Tuscany. We also road on trains. Both have their benefits but wouldn't trade our driving experience. My husband had no trouble whatsoever navigating the countryside but he wasn't interested in driving in the big cities. We picked our car up in Florence and dropped it off in Orvieto. Orvieto is a great place to pick up a car. VERY convenient to the train station and such a beautiful town.
Rebecca
Anchorage, AK USA 5/22/13
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RE: Sorrento to Agropoli and Paestum
I can only answer part of your question. I've not been to Agropoli. From Sorrento I've taken the Circumvesuviana to Pompeii. It's a fairly easy walk across town to the 'other' train station but there are lots of taxis glad to give you a ride. Trains to Paestum are not very frequent so I'd check schedules on line as you plan. The ruins are truly amazing. Paestum used to be right on the beach - you'll find the geography has changed, it isn't so close any more.
I'd be thankful if anyone knows a better way to get to Paestum. It did seem long.
Thanks for the reminder - it's time to revisit Paestum!
Robert
Bordentown, NJ USA 5/22/13
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RE: Umbrella and jacket needed?
Being from Alaska, we are always ready for "weather" and our usual theory is that if we take our rain coats and umbrella it won't rain. Not true on this trip! This time we used both every where we went, Rome, Venice, Tuscany and esp. Switzerland. Take your raincoat and umbrella and hopefully the sun will shine!
Rebecca
Anchorage, AK USA 5/22/13
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RE: How to pay a Spanish traffic ticket?
Although it rises from the dead annually this is still an ancient thread from over 2 tears ago....
Nigel
East Midlands England 5/22/13
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RE: Sorrento sccommodation
I frequently travel solo through Italy. In Sorrento I have found Il Nido an excellent place to stay (and will be there myself for the 5th time the last week of July). It's above the city but they have excellent (and free) shuttle service day and night. It should be well within your budget especially if you book directly with them. The views from the balcony (breakfast and dinner is served there) simply cannot be beat! www.ilnido.com
Robert
Bordentown, NJ USA 5/22/13
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RE: London to Bath Day Trip
If you take the train to Bath, then you are also entitled to use some 2 for 1 offers, which are similar to those available for London. Check out the First Great Western site at www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk/Offers/2-For-1/2-for-1-Regional/Bath.
The Roman Baths are easy to get to, but there are several other museums and attractions, and you might like to treat yourselves in the rooftop pool at the Thermae Bath Spa www.thermaebathspa.com.
Bob
Bristol UK 5/22/13
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RE: Good restaurants in Venice
We just returned from Venice and have to say that we weren't "wow'ed" by the food there even though we ate at Rick Steves' recommended places. Don't know where you are staying, but we had an apartment and the best thing we did was go to the Rialto market to buy fresh food and made a delicious Italian feast for a very reasonable amount of money. Great experience and easy to work with all of the vendors. We are from Alaska so all of the fresh food was a delight.
Our other favorite thing is finding a little neighborhood bar to have your morning coffee. A great way to feel like a Venetian. We went to ours for coffee, sandwiches, pastries, and even a quick shop of grappa after dinner in the evening. Find a little place where all the locals are que'd up.
Rebecca
Anchorage, AK USA 5/22/13
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RE: Suggested Itinerary Bristol / Wales / Cornwall
Taking one day out of five for Wales is going to gum up the South West. So will ducking into Bath.
In a day outing from Bristol, you can get to Chepstow (village and castle) plus either Tintern and a bit of the Wye or Caerphilly (if you want a bigger, good castle) or Cardiff.
The Cardiff castle is not worth the trouble, the National Meseum and a boat tour of the waterfront are. Swansea is too far and doesn't offer much.
You could make a really strong case for spending the whole time in Wales since five days would give you a good taste of the whole country, especially if you move at a pretty good clip.
Switching back to England, you might want to see if you can spend a night in Penzance so you can catch a performance at the Minack - - they tend to book up quickly, however.
Ed
Pensacola 5/22/13
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RE: Sightseeing during airport change.
Thanks for the input. We will just play it by ear and decide when we get there if we want to try it. Hopefully Sunday morning won't be too busy traffic wise and we can get a cabby that wants to make it happen.
Jerry
Austin, TX United States 5/22/13
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RE: Kenmare/Killarney
I was surprised how much I liked Killarney, but I was there in early May - probably before the big rush of tourists. In addition to finding traditional music sessions at the Grand Hotel's pub, we enjoyed hiking through the national park adjacent to the town.
All else being equal, I would pick one or the other town and stay two nights. That saves checking out/in and packing/unpacking and makes life seem a little less frantic.
I personally wouldn't recommend driving both rings. They are scenic but unless you really want to stop and see unique sights on both routes, they are essentially the same experience. Dingle IMO has the better choice of sights. Kerry has Ft. Stague, which isn't duplicated on the Dingle circle.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/22/13
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Mount Vesuvius schedule and transportation advice
Hi all,
I'm going to Italy at the end of June and our flight is "scheduled" to arrive in Naples at 12:30pm. Do you think it is possible to head over to Mount Vesuvius around 3pm and hike up before it closes?
Is anyone aware of the open-close schedule Vesuvius has for entry to the top in June? Or if there is any public transportation to it around 3pm? What would the best way to get there be (I'm staying in Naples), so that I can do the climb that late in the afternoon. I really want to try and fit it in and I know it's a crunch.
If anyone has some scheduling and transportation information they could share, it would be very helpful!
Sam
Samantha
Toronto, Ontario Canada 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
The coins you need are called "pee coins" as in Netherlands pee coins, German pee coins, Austrian pee coins. They are to be carried at all times under duress of exploding bladders. Messy. Make sure you have a good supply of these pee coins wherever you go.
Monte
Genesee, ID 5/22/13
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RE: charging the rental car
I use a very similar plan as Roy with the AMEX and visa cards. If you use the credit card for your insurance be sure to use that same credit card for all expenses related to the car rental otherwise it will void the coverage.
Lane
Mansfield, GA 5/22/13
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RE: Suggested Itinerary Bristol / Wales / Cornwall
In the time available, you will not be able to see much of Wales except parts of South Wales, and I would suggest that you stay there two nights and then leave for Cornwall first thing on the third day.
Depending on your interests, places worth seeing in South Wales include
Cardiff Castle
Caerphilly Castle
Castle Coch
Chepstow Castle
Tintern Abbey
Roman baths and fortress at Caerleon
Big Pit at Blaenafon (you can go down a coal mine)
St Fagan's National History Museum near Cardiff
and for scenery
Gower Peninsula
Brecon Beacons
Admission is free to the various national museums in Wales.
There are lots of places to visit in Cornwall, and you may like to check out:
Eden Project near St Austell
Lost Gardens of Heligan
St Ives
Tintagel
St Michael's Mount
as well as the ones you have already mentioned.
Cornwall is long and thin, so travelling between different sites can sometimes take a long time. This will help you choose where it is best to stay.
October is certainly end of season for Cornwall, which may affect what is open or available.
Check out online the places mentioned, and see what suits your interests.
Bob
Bristol UK 5/22/13
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RE: Rental car in prague
I just googled" car rental prague 1" and several agency's did pop up- has anyone used any?
joanne
grand blanc 5/22/13
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RE: WiFi on Trenitalia/Italo
The last time I used it was in March so it may have changed. I used wifi with a British phone and my British wifi enabled netbook.
If you have an Italian address you can register online or at a .Italo lounge. If you don't, you can do as I did and register on the train. You do it online at your seat and you get 60 minutes. They send an email with a code and if you enter the code you can use the link for the rest of the trip.
That worked pretty well on my iPhone, but by no means perfectly, and not so well on my netbook. The pipe is pretty small and when several people are on it the throughput becomes a dribble. It wasn't enough to get the password in within the hour - it doesn't come right away.
That was the case both ways between Bologna and Rome.
Both devices dropped out frequently because the route is riddled with tunnels (that's why the countryside is so beautiful, all those hills) and the wifi doesn't work in tunnels, or canyons.
What does seem to work well is the .Italo intranet. Easily available, even in the tunnels, etc., are the pages fed by the .Italo server on the train. Such things as travel information, destination information (that was available in various languages, much like Powerpoint slides), right up to the minute (or 10 minute) news and current affairs, and information about the train and connections, etc. The vast majority of the content is in Italian but because I am reasonable happy in Italian I didn't search out additional English content. I also think that there were childrens' feeds, and I think that the movies (all in Italian) were available from the server as well as in the movie car.
I remember pulling my hair out trying to get a code - anywhere - for the Trenitalia Frecciarossas last year and gave up.
Nigel
East Midlands England 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
Italy comes to mind as the most likely place where you will have to pay to pee. I'm just a tourist like most people here, but my take is that a 50 euro cent coin is the appropriate amount - carry a supply of those.
Most places have a tray where you can drop change that adds up to 50 euro cents and be fine, but some places have coin operated gates where you need the correct coin. Maybe it's okay to make change from the trays, I've never tried - just made sure I had some change before I used a toilet.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/22/13
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Rental car in prague
We will be in prague four days- thinking of possibly renting a car to drive to cesky krumlov for a day trip - good or bad idea? Does anyone know if there is a rental pick up without going to prague airport? With 20 20 hindsight , maybe should have got car at arrival done a night then gone to prague!! Thanks!
joanne
grand blanc 5/22/13
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RE: Specific Schengen Q
It's probably easiest to think of it as a rolling 183 days. Each day the question would be, "Have you been in Schengen for more than 90 days in the last six months (a little more than 180 days)?" As long as the answer is always no, you're good. If you project on ANY day the answer will be yes, you need to apply for a visa ahead of your trip.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/22/13
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RE: Rental Car Advice - Ireland
The only thing to ask about is the toll on the M50 ring road. There's no way to pay the toll but they read your license plate and charge "your car". The rental company will have this worked out - Hertz charged the same card separately for the toll - but you should ask. Some of the big highways are tolled but it's the regular drive up booth kind so have some change if you want to use the faster lanes.
If you need to return the car with a full tank take the "Swords" exit on the roundabout just before the airport and there's a gas station a few miles down the road.
All the car rentals (at least all the big ones) at the airport are in the same giant "pen" outside the airport so just take the rental shuttle from the terminal and your company will be there somewhere along the line.
That's everything I can think of - have a great trip!
=Tod
PS There are no street signs in Galway so keep that reality in mind if you drive there.
Tod
San Diego, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
It is true. You'll often encounter a stern-looking matron seated at a table at the restroom entrance. She's the one you pay. There'll often be a sign telling you how much is expected. Don't worry about having change. There is no such thing as a one-euro note (our dollar bill) in Europe, so you'll find that your pockets rapidly fill with change when you're over there.
Tom
Chicago 5/22/13
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RE: Trains from Vienna
Some trains go from Wien Praterstern.
Ilja
Seattle 5/22/13
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RE: pay to pee??
It's true! I carry a variety of coins because what you pay is different from place to place. On the plus side, WC's with an attendant are generally the cleanest you will find.
Andrea
Sacramento, CA 5/22/13
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RE: Rental Car Advice - Ireland
Thanks, Tod. We are doing the Valley of Boynne/ Trim at the end of the trip. Sounds like it will all work out.
Kate
Denver, Colorado 5/22/13
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RE: 2 Weeks in Italy
Thanks to both of you for your suggestions. We are actually revising our itinerary and considering saving Florence and Tuscany/Umbria for another visit and possibly adding Rome and Naples to this trip. We have friends in Naples who have offered up an apartment for our use. Can't beat that!
Maureen
St. Mary's City 5/22/13
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RE: Drivers license
If your home drivers license is printed in English, and you're driving in an English-speaking country such as Ireland, you don't need an IDP.
Tom
Chicago 5/22/13
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pay to pee??
I have heard that you should carry change around to use public restrooms in Europe...it this is true what coins do you need?? quarters-euro change??
THANKS!!
Kris
Garden City, KS USA 5/22/13
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RE: Trains from Vienna
Vienna Meidling
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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RE: Suggestions for last leg of my trip
Thanks for the tip on Hotel Adornes in Bruges! I checked it out and am in the process of booking it. It sounds great!!
It is true that the lakes in Michigan are very beautiful and therefore, us Michiganders are probably picky about beaches. That is why I'm torn with heading to the coast or the Rhine or finding something altogether different for the last leg of my trip.
But thanks for the suggestions! I'll continue to think on it and since the rest of my trip is planned out, maybe I'll "wing it" in the end!
Sue
Ypsilanti 5/22/13
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RE: Rental Car Advice - Ireland
If you're flying into and out of Dublin the easiest thing to do, by far, is to skip picking up the car on the way in and take the bus from the airport into the city. After you've seen Dublin take the bus back to the airport, rent the car and then return it to the airport on your way out.
This plan saves you driving the car into Dublin and having the car in Dublin = both of which you really should avoid - as well as 2 days rental you won't be using.
The airlink worked for where we were staying and was 6 euros roundtrip and took about 15 minutes.
http://www.dublinairport.com/gns/to-from-the-airport/by-bus-or-coach.aspx
The airport car rental is also a good part of the way towards Newgrange/Knowth, Bru na Boinne and Trim if those interest you.
Have a great trip,
=Tod
Tod
San Diego, CA USA 5/22/13
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RE: London/Scotland Itinerary
I think that the real issue isn't whether Inverness is worth 2 days/nights, but rather the travel time. You have at least 8 hours driving from St. Andrews to Inverness and Inverness to Glasgow. You probably have a day and two half days, assuming you plan no time in Glasgow other than getting to the hotel the night prior to your flight. I would definitely recommend Cawdor Castle, perhaps the most livable castle I have seen. I would also suggest a drive around Loch Ness. On the far side of the loch was our only sighting of long horned/long fur cattle in a two+ week stay, crisscrossing Scotland. If you are interested in distilleries, there is one which has an interesting tour. It is now closed so they allow photos, touching, etc, generally not permitted in operating ones. Clava Cairns is close and you can determine how long you want to spend. The same with Culloden field, field being the operative word. That is true of all battlefields, the issue is whether this particular battle has resonance for you. While in Inverness, have dinner at the River Cafe.
david
washington 5/22/13
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RE: from Monterosso to Milan
Great to have such clarification! Thanks again! We have reservations for the other legs of our trip (Milan to Varenna in Lake Como...Varenna to Venice...Venice to Monterosso)...so I shall make sure we enjoy the Cinque Terre for a few hours, then we will buzz right up to Milan...a few hours there, then out to the airport hotel where we will stay prior to our morning flight over to Toulouse.
Though we were aware of the validating needed on the train tickets I am glad to have the importance of this step reiterated!
Good to hear we can walk and hike and to just avoid Genova, as well!
This helps immensely!
Cheers!
cathy
victoria, BC Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Suggested Itinerary Bristol / Wales / Cornwall
This is sort of the other direction from Port Isaac, etc. but....
Waaaaay back in early 2001, we stayed in Caernarfon, Wales, and found that a good base for seeing Wales. There are a couple B&Bs inside the castle walls, which makes for a picturesque stay (the type that are rooms above a pub). We stayed at the Black Boy Inn, which was great fun - rumored to be haunted! And one of the oldest (the oldest?) in the town. But perhaps that is a different trip...
Kate
Denver, Colorado 5/22/13
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Trains from Vienna
We are traveling from Vienna to Prague. What train station do we use to take a direct train?
Chuck
Chuck
Schererville, in 5/22/13
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RE: Just a reminder...
OK so its (nearly) wooden-spoon time again. But didn't Bonnie give an awful performance? Rough for the Irish too - dead wood, not even Jed-wood.
I'd have gone for Greece.
Nigel
East Midlands England 5/22/13
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Rental Car Advice - Ireland
We are starting our 11 days in Ireland with 2 days in Dublin. We are trying to figure out if we should rent from the airport, and just park it for a couple days, or rent somewhere in / on outskirts of Dublin, or what.
What are the logistics of returning a car (we fly out of Dublin as well)? Is it very expensive to return the car to a different place than you originally rented it?
I've searched on the boards a bit, and didn't find advice on this. Any tips would be helpful.
Thanks!
Kate
Denver, Colorado 5/22/13
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RE: Suggested Itinerary Bristol / Wales / Cornwall
Marie, I don't know Wales, but it certainly is convenient to Bristol. It sounds like you only plan a day or so in Wales. Having been to Bath, I would say that one visit is enough. It is kind of convenient, but a bit out of the way. From the M4 out of Wales, I would take the M5 all the way to Exeter and the A30 which runs straight through Cornwall. We stayed in Falmouth which is a charming town, large enough to have several restaurants. St. Ives is also charming and large enough to provide variety.
david
washington 5/22/13
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RE: rialto market open in the afternoon
Actually, Ruth-Anne, I think the very best time to go to the Rialto market is a 7 in the morning - the vendors are setting up and very few people are milling about.
Early mornings are what the locals refer to as Venetian time.
George
Canada 5/22/13
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RE: England: 10 days, first trip, too many choices HELP!
Under many circumstances, I would agree that a train to the Cotswolds would be a good idea. However, your return to Heathrow will be complicated, involving train and bus. I would tube to Heathrow and rent there. Return to Heathrow. If you have a morning flight, I would return to Heathrow the night before the return flight and stay at the Premier or other lodging of your choice. If you have an afternoon or evening flight, return from the Cotswolds the day of your flight. We used Enterprise and they were wonderful. But check others as well. If you are a Costco member, check them.
david
washington 5/22/13
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RE: When to visit the Vatican
I assume you're talking about the Vatican museums since you mention reserving tickets.
The Vatican museums are not open on Sundays, except the last one of the month when they are free and horribly crowded. This means that you can go on either Friday or Saturday. With the museums being closed on Sundays, Saturdays and Mondays are the busiest days there. It doesn't matter if you reserve tickets or not, the museums will be crowded. Reserving tickets means you get to bypass the line which at times can be over 2 hours long. It has no bearing on the crowds inside. That being said, if you wish to go on a day that will be the least crowded you should go on Friday. Check to see if the "Friday nights at the Vatican" are available while you're there. This tends to be less crowded than during the day. The downside is that not all of the rooms are open and you only have a few hours inside the museums. If the rooms you wish to see will be open I would book the night hours on Friday, if not, I would go during the day on Friday.
Donna
donna
cranberry twp, PA United States 5/22/13
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RE: rialto market open in the afternoon
Probably not, but if it's not Friday or Saturday, you could go across the Canal to the Jewish Ghetto for the afternoon.
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/22/13
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RE: Difference between National and Local Trains?
Ken,
That's very helpful! I am about halfway through Rick's "Europe through the Back Door", but it didn't occur to me that he might have country specific books too. Our itinerary is still up in the air, though we're trying to get that nailed down this week. Some definite cities we'll be visiting though are London, Paris, Nice, Madrid, and Barcelona along with some northern Italian cities. Possibly some combination of Venice, Florence, Rome, and Pisa.
We just graduated college so we're working on a pretty tight budget. I just want to make sure that we've got all of our bases covered so there aren't any nasty surprises when we get over there.
Summer
Bremen, IN United States 5/22/13
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RE: Spain White hill town - Ronda
The bull ring and museum were definitely a highlight for me, and the views everywhere.
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/22/13
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Drivers license
Hi all you travelers- we are renting a car to tour around Ireland - do we need an international drivers license?
Cheers,
lynne
Lynne
Sarasota, FL usa 5/22/13
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RE: St. Petersburg
Check carefully. My understanding was that if you don't have an individual visa, you must stay with the Russian tour guide at all times and you are not allowed to leave the tour or to stay ashore after the tour.
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/22/13
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Smith limo London
Anyone have experience with smith limo? We need to book a car to go from heathrow to London and later in the week, from London to south Hampton.
Maria
Montreal, Quebec Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Vatican Museum Tour after Papal Audience Wednesday
I'd book the tour for 2p, if that's an option. You'll need time to have lunch between the audience and the museum. You're in Italy - hate to skip a meal!
SamSn
Scottsdale, AZ USA 5/22/13
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RE: Accommodation around Arcachon
I stayed at the Hotel les Pins in Cap Ferret in April a few years back and loved it.
Grier
Carmel, IN 5/22/13
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RE: Easy Beach Excursion From Rome
Skip the beach at Ostia. Instead go to Santa Marinella which is much prettier and cleaner. There is easy access via the train and the tickets are inexpensive.
http://www.revealedrome.com/2011/05/beach-in-rome-santa-marinella-italy.html
SamSn
Scottsdale, AZ USA 5/22/13
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RE: Provence hotel help!
Be sure to get a room with a view of the Med at the Royal in Nice. We stayed there for a night before a flight home and had a gorgeous view and nice room. Good idea to get your rental car on your way out of Nice.
I haven't stayed in St Remy so can't recommend a hotel. I loved Le Beffroi in Vaison la Romaine, beautiful room with a view, lovely garden, great food, nice people. I have also stayed in Carpentras and Arles.
You don't say how long you are staying. Have you considered renting a house/apartment? You might check VRBO.
Grier
Carmel, IN 5/22/13
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RE: charging the rental car
Cynthia, I do what you suggest in your question. For the most part, I limit using my American Express card only for booking airline flights and rental cars and occasional car expenses when Amex is accepted. The rental car part is important becaue I use Amex Premium insurance for the car rentals. For practically everything else, I use a Visa card, partly because a lot of places will not accept American Express, but also so I don't have to worry about the Visa card being hit by a hold on funds.
Roy
Auburn, AL 5/22/13
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RE: iPad or notebook
Shelley, further to Randy's post above I think the only way you can get editing capabilities, going from a non-Apple PC to an iPad (or from a Mac to an iPad, for that matter), is if you purchase the Pages app at $10.
I have Pages on my desktop Mac and can open and edit text documents from Word.
So with no guarantees you could download the app, send the Word doc to yourself, as an attachment by email, open it in Pages, and then edit and save it on your iPad.
I can't think of any other way. Again no guarantees that after spending the $10 you'll get what you want. Go into the iTunes store and search for Pages for iPad and read the description for it and see if that gives you any better feeling before spending the cash.
Hopefully spending the 10 bucks will be better than buying a notebook!
George
Canada 5/22/13
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RE: kd rhine cruise
I strongly disagree that there is nothing to see in St. Goar and that Rhinefels is just a bunch of rocks. The 2 ancient churches in St. Goar have such beautiful vaulting, with painted ceilings and wonderful old gravestones, plus a great crypt. Even though I have see them quite a few times, I still like to spend about an hours or so, just on these 2 churches.
When you walk into the Great Hall in Rhinefels, it will take your breath away, it is so massive. Wandering around thru all the tunnels, climbing up onto the ramparts, peering out thru the walls, are all great fun. Believe it or not, using the bathrooms there gave us the biggest kick. We couldn't stop laughing. This is a good place to have a flashlight ap on your i-phone. You will need it in the tunnels.
Riding the boat does give you the best view, but I would also start way before Bacharach. Beginning at Bingen or Ruedesheim, lets you see a lot more castles. If you get on in Bacharach, you will only see about 4 castles between here and St. Goar. If you want to explore Bacharach, you will also need more than 45 min.
You might also want to visit the churches in Ober Wesel and Lorch.
One of the things you can do that makes this trip even more interesting is to read a book called "Rhine Sagas". Mark Twain was "enchanted to death" with this book and it does make the castles and Rhine come alive with the odd stories connected with all of them. Helpful is also a book that describes each castle, with the map on the back, available all along the Rhine for about 8 euro.
Jo
Frankfurt Germany 5/22/13
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RE: Good restaurants in Venice
Thank you so much for all the valuable suggestions
I will post my recommendations when I
Return to the States in October
barbara
chapel hill, nc usa 5/22/13
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RE: Traveling europe and managing money/conversion & acccess to getting more $
Just three more things.
Beware of establishments who offer to convert their bills to dollars for you. They are also offering to charge you a mark-up for this service, which you don't need anyway.
If your bank card and/or credit card charges a hefty commission, it may be worth opening a banks account or credit card elsewhere with a no-fee provider just for the trip.
Otherwise, the credit card is great for charges, but don't use it to get cash. If you do you'll pay interest on your whole balance.
Adam
Boston 5/22/13
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Sorrento sccommodation
Any suggestions on accommodation in Sorrento. I am travelling solo and will be there for a week in late July / early August. Budget $150 per night at the most.
Jodie
Success, WA Australia 5/22/13
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RE: London to Bath Day Trip
There is the Herschel Museum of Astronomy in Bath, situated in the house where William Herschel discovered the planet Uranus. As well as the astronomy-related exhibits, there is also a recreation of a Georgian town-house garden.
Marco
Oxford, Oxon United Kingdom 5/22/13
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RE: best way to get from Santa Lucia train station
I guess it will be the two wheeled bag and the bridge. thank you for your help.
antoinette
cold spring 5/22/13
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RE: Arriving at Orly -Traveling on to Bayeux
The Orly information here http://www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/ADP/en-GB/Passagers/Home/ includes a schematic diagram of the mass-transit services for Orly so you can see your alternatives.
Southam
Windsor, Ontario Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
On pooled midwest routes trans-Atlantic I always watch which of the three airlines is actually operating the plane (KLM still looks like it has separate management.) Delta is competent; Air France has slightly more palatable food and a better selection of movies being French. KLM may have an edge on cabin crew efficiency. These are very small differences. The odds of drawing an indifferent cabin crew are tiny but it can happen. Anyhow, they don't keep the plane in the air.
Southam
Windsor, Ontario Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Picking a seat on Eurostar
In St-Pancras outside the security check-in there are several food shops, including a Marks & Spencer store to buy the makings for your own meal on the train. Railway food is always expensive.
Southam
Windsor, Ontario Canada 5/22/13
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RE: Paris to Interlaken, Interlaken to Venice
Not seeing your ticket, I'd say it sounds about right.
Sam
Green Bay 5/22/13
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RE: charging the rental car
My three credit cards have a credit limit of $20,000 each. Since I typically pay off my CC bills each month, even a 16,000 euro hold would have no impact on me.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/22/13
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RE: from Monterosso to Milan
The later point about regional ticket validity is important. Regional tickets used to be valid for 6h, which made it easy to hop-on/off along a route. Now, you have to buy separate tickets if you are exceeding the validity of each of them (usually but not always 120 minutes).
Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 5/22/13
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RE: charging the rental car
Michael, if you buy insurance the hold is usually something up to the deductible or less.
If you don't buy insurance from the rental company, some will put very large holds on your CC, I read about Sixty putting a € 8000 hold on a no-insurance rental in Spain.
Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 5/22/13
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RE: Swiss Alps Railways
You are getting too much out of the way.
If your intent is doing some scenic Swiss rail trips, you need 2 nights for that, doing something like this:
day 1 - Milano-St. Moritz (or somewhere on the area).
day 2 - cross Switzerland, with an intermediate stop somewhere (there are some mountains in Valais easy to reach from adjacent train stations + cable car), then an overnight in Geneve
day 3 - a long day (10h+ travelling on mostly high-speed trains via Lyon and Figueres).
Alternatively. you can travel on a single day between Milano and Barcelona by train, but the trip takes around 12 hours and require changes. Less than 2h of it will be scenic, the rest is fast and efficient (the whole trip takes 1700km after all!), but not particularly scenic.
That requires transfers in Bourg, Valence and Figueres.
Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 5/22/13
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RE: kd rhine cruise
Ron from Missouri correctly points out that Rheinfels is a set of ruins. Still, a combination of features make it a good destination for many - the museum there, the stunning view of the valley and the cliffside walks, as well as the terrace-restaurant (Der Landgraf) in the classy hotel next to the castle might make it worth your time.
To visit a never-destroyed castle, Braubach's Marksburg Castle is very good. How to visit Marksburg? It's 11 minutes by train from Koblenz to Braubach; hike up or catch the shuttle from town. If you decide to do the cruise, you can either cruise north to Braubach (time consuming) or end your cruise in St. Goarshausen (right across the river from St. Goar) and catch a train there (20 minutes to Braubach.) So... if you're on the 10:30 boat from Bingen (or the 11:15 boat - same boat, actually - from Bacharach) you'll reach St. Goarshausen at 12:05, walk to the station, catch the 12:31 train north to Braubach (12:52 - you could also do this routine one hour later starting at 11:30 from Bingen or 12:15 from Bacharach.)
The scenic Bingen-Braubach section of the river is 52km long. If you're going to travel all the way from Cologne and back to see it, why not see the WHOLE thing and continue south by train beyond Bacharach to Bingen for the other castles as well (15 km more of great scenery.) If you go only to Bacharach and cruise north to St. Goar, as Ron suggests, you'll cruise just 13 km of the river, spend 40 minutes on the boat, pay roughly 13€ on top of your train pass, and miss out on 30% of the scenery - and you'll be seeing the Braubach-St. Goar part by train only anyway. I'd rather extend the cruise by paying 6€ more to start from Bingen OR to save the cruise time and money altogether and just use the train the entire way - you'll enjoy the scenery from the riverbank towns that you stop in along the way anyway.
Russ
Paradise 5/22/13
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RE: Regular trains going the Glacier Express route
SBB website looks for the faster route.
Select Oberwald or Andermatt as an intermediate stop and it shall inform the normal trains on that route.
On June 4h the conventional trains on that route depart Zermatt 7h39, 11h39, 12h39, 13h39 and 14h39. 4 transfers are required (all on small stations easy to navigate)
Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 5/22/13
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RE: Milan to Varenna
Thanks so much Ken. You have explained that very well
Regards,
John
John
Ellenbrook, W.A. Australia 5/22/13
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RE: Just a reminder...
Likewise, for the Antwerp fans on this website: Zone Stad. Watch this show, and you would think that the population of Antwerp consists almost entirely of psychopathic, sadistic murderers.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/22/13
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RE: Pyrenees hiking
Unfortunately I have zero first hand experience, although I have crossed that border a few times. :-) Nonetheless, the idea of hiking (and fishing) in the Pyrenees has been on my day-dream bucket-list for years. Ever since I read a piece that Hemingway wrote on the subject ("Sun Also Rises" also in " The Dangerous Summer"). Anyway, that's an explanation regarding my interest in something along the following lines:
http://www.navarrafishingadventures.com/trout.html
Thomas
Vienna Austria 5/22/13
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RE: London/Scotland Itinerary
You don't give us any indication of your interests so it's hard to say for sure that Inverness is "worth" two nights. You also don't say whether you arrive late for night one or have time for sights along the way from St Andrews. With all that, I'll give you my opinion.
You could spend weeks in Inverness and see all sorts of sights but most "busy" tourists don't. You could see Culloden and Cawdor Castle on the way from St Andrews if you allow about four hours for both. Those are the "major" RS Inverness stops. You could even see Clava Cairns. I was personally not too impressed with Cawdor Castle but there are other intesting places along the way if you have the time.
From your limited time, I'd make sure I had at least two full days in Edinburgh and tend to give it an extra day rather than two in Inverness.
You can see Urquart Castle, Glencoe and Oban on the way to Glascow from Inverness.
Ken
Spring, Texas 5/22/13
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RE: FRA layover on a Friday 9pm, too late to get to town for a late bite?
Lots of places to eat inside the main train station and they open early for the commuters and travelers. Give me your dates of travel, and I can look up your train.
Jo
Frankfurt Germany 5/22/13
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Accommodation around Arcachon
I'm thinking of spending a few days around Arcachon this July--two different French friends have recommended it. I understand it can be expensive, though, and my first online check for accommodation bears that out. But I also hear there are some smaller villages not too far away that may be cheaper. Any advice?
Thanks!
Max
Pittsburgh, PA USA 5/22/13
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Pyrenees hiking
Hi gang!
This July I'm going to be hiking with a friend for a few days starting out at Pyrenees National Park. Has anyone found any especially good trails/hikes/itineraries they want to share?
Thanks!
Max
Pittsburgh, PA USA 5/22/13
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Salerno to Ischia via Capri
I am staying in Salerno and would like to visit Capri for the day and continue on to Ischia for a couple of days before going to Naples. Is this doable or would it be better to do a separate day trip to Capri and then go to Ischia via Naples?
Carolyn
Alton, MO 5/22/13
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RE: Regular trains going the Glacier Express route
The SBB site probably isn't showing you the trains that follow the Glacier Express route as they're much slower and it assumes you want to go by the less direct but quicker express route. Try searching on the SBB site for journeys via Andermatt. Alternatively you can try the sites of the two railway companies (not the SBB) that operate the route of the Glacier Express: the Matterhorn-Gotthard Bahn and the Rhaetian Railway.
Philip
London United Kingdom 5/22/13
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RE: Difference between National and Local Trains?
No, the Britrail pass does not cover local transport in London.
Philip
London United Kingdom 5/22/13
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RE: Just a reminder...
I still think there's little to beat the first mainland Europe cop show to get translated into English, the French "Spiral"/"Engrenages". It's been called with some justification "the French 'Wire'". Just don't watch it if you want to keep thinking that Paris is aromantic paradise filled with cheery guys playing accordians.
Philip
London United Kingdom 5/22/13
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RE: Traveling europe and managing money/conversion & acccess to getting more $
Any fee on the ATM will be charged by your bank at home. For the most part, there are no additional fees imposed by European banks.
Some travelers on this website like to arrive with about €100-200 in the local currency. Personally, I don't think it matters. At a minimum, every international airport in Europe will have at least a bureau de change, and most also have easily locatable ATMs. If I'm headed to a non-Euro country, I never obtain the currency in advanced.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/22/13
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RE: Swiss Alps Railways
Rather than go out of your way into Switzerland, why not just take the direct route through the Graian Alps into France? The Alpine region on the border of France and Italy contains some of the highest peaks of the entire range. I see no good reason for an expensive side trip north to Switzerland when there's plenty of amazing scenery along your direct route of travel.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/22/13
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France or Spain end of June first week of July
Hello,
I am a female traveller preferably looking for another female traveller around the age of 21 (within a few years of). I will be travelling from Amsterdam to either Paris (or elsewhere in France) or to Spain. I am looking to stay in either hostels or decently priced hotels and am excited to enjoy whatever the country may have to offer and want to immerse in the culture. I haven't decided on whether I will travel by train or plane as of now.
Rachel
Marietta 5/22/13
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Swiss Alps Railways
Hello,
I am traveling throughout Europe from late May to mid-July this summer and am having probems planning the part from Milan, Italy to Barcelona, Spain. Preferably I would like to somehow incorporate a train ride through the Swiss Alps to a connecting train somewhere to take me to Barcelona through France. My major problem is finding a good railway that would take me from somewhere not far from Milan, Italy through the Swiss Alps, then through France (non-stop, or one night stay) and then onward to Barcelona. I have been incredibly excited to go through the Swiss Alps, and unfortunately I will be unable to take much time besides to ride through them and maybe stay one night somewhere, but regardless, it is something I would love to see. If anyone has any suggestions on how to fill this gap so I can go from Milan, Italy through the Swiss Alps and then onward to Barcelona I would be very grateful. Thanks!
Rachel
Marietta 5/22/13
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RE: Milan to Varenna
John,
It's will be nearly impossible to tell you which platform the train for Varenna will depart from. Even if a Platform is specified on the "Partenza" charts, this is frequently changed so the best source of information will be the electronic sign board. Note that in some cases, the departure information for some trains may not be listed until about 30 minutes before departure.
There are multiple floors at Milano Centrale, but trains (excluding the Metro) are located only at the top level. This short video should give you an idea of the layout:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Grv_hw7ymw
The train to Varenna actually carries on to Tirano or other destinations, so you may not see Varenna listed. Note that the "official" name of the station is Varenna-Esino. The train you'll be using on that route will be a Regionale, so DON'T forget to validate your ticket prior to boarding the train or you may get nicked with a hefty fine, which will be collected on the spot!
Be sure to watch your luggage and belongings at Milano Centrale, or they may "disappear". It's a somewhat chaotic and noisy station (especially with those @#$% television adverts), but that's normal.
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: How do I get from Munich Airport to Bahnhofplatz Central Train Station?
Well, our plane arrives at Munich at 7:35am and departs at 3:30pm but I'm not sure how long it would take to leave the airport(with no luggages)and out to where the Lufthansa Buses are at and get on it to that meeting point across Kardstadt and vice versa.
What time is recommended that should we be back to the airport in a layover? I mean shouldn't the process be shorter since no luggages are with us and that it is already on the plane?
We changed the Munich Hop on Hop off to the 2hrs Grand Tour in order to see a bit more and to taste & see a whole new experience of the local German culture.
Thanks everyone for all your input...it has been very helpful to us traveling gals! :)
Mary C
Long Beach 5/22/13
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RE: Just a reminder...
Not for the first time, and probably not for the last, the Eurovision Song Contest has caused a minor international incident yet again. Come on, Putin, are you even seeing international conspiracies against Russia in Eurovision now?
BTW, interesting how just mentioning "Sarah Lund" sent this thread down a parallel discussion.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/22/13
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RE: St. Gallen and Appenzell, Switzerland and suggestions for itinerary
Agree with Ken, this is a lot of traveling back and forth. I would recommend slimming it down by at least, choosing Zermatt or the Berner Oberland, not both. I personally like Zermatt slightly more than the Berner Oberland, but either is a good choice. The hiking in Zermatt is considerably more strenuous, but once you reach a certain altitude, the high peaks of the Pennine Alps (highest in the country) really take your breath away. Most of the hikes I've seen in the Berner Oberland aren't quite so difficult, and you don't need to ascend quite so high to really maximize your viewing experience (due to the contours of the land and line-of-site issues, other than the Matterhorn, you can't really appreciate how towering most of the mountains above Zermatt are until you ascend high enough to overcome the screening effect of the valley walls).
Two key questions we need to know: Do you plan to travel by car or train? And what time of year?
I love the mountain resort of Flumserberg in St, Gallen, but I'm not sure a stop here would add anything to your trip. If you're passing through and it's a hot day, consider a swim in the nearby Wallensee.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/22/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
Webcam links
Lauterbrunnen
http://www.jungfraumarketing.ch/webcam/lauterbrunnen/cam1/current.jpg
Stechelberg
http://www.stechelberg.ch/cam/cam.htm
Mürren
http://hoteledelweiss.roundshot.ch/
Wengen
http://www.bellevue-wengen.ch/webcam-wengen.html
Schilthorn
http://www.feratel.com/webcams-wetter/schweiz/muerren-schilthorn.html
Jungfraujoch
http://www.feratel.com/webcams-wetter/schweiz/lauterbrunnen-jungfraujoch.html
Plenty more but enough to keep us you amused
latest info: @murrenlover
Chris
Jersey CI & Mürren CH Twitter :@murrenlover 5/22/13
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RE: from Monterosso to Milan
Cathy,
Thanks for the clarification, but a few additional comments.....
Unless you have an overwhelming desire to see Genova, I'd suggest skipping it and spending your time touring the five towns of the Cinque Terre. Even with just one day, you should be able to get to all of them via hiking or the local trains.
Regarding your plans for a carefree style of touring to "just putz along enjoying the scenery in a hop on hop off kind of schedule, should the spirit move us", you'll need to be VERY CAREFUL in how you do that.
If the train you're using is a Freccia, InterCity or other "premium" train, reservations are compulsory and are specific to a particular train and departure time. You CAN'T just "hop on hop off" those trains or you'll get nicked with a hefty fine which will be collected on the spot! Fines for the premium trains start at ~€60 PP and increase from there. You MUST use ONLY the train specified on your ticket (ie: ES 9762).
If the train you're using is a Regionale,, reservations are not a concern and you can take any train, but you MUST validate your tickets prior to boarding on the day of travel or again the same hefty fines! Once validated, tickets have a time limit (depending on the route distance) and then expire so you would likely have to buy separate tickets for each segment of your trip and then validate prior to boarding each train.
Using the spontaneous "hop on hop off" approach on Italian trains comes with a few "caveats".
Cheers!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/22/13
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RE: kd rhine cruise
Hello Ron. I recommend : ride in a train to Bacharach. Ride on a K-D ship from Bacharach to St. Goar. Riding in a train is less scenic. Being on a ship on the river, you can see the castles at both sides of the river. People in a train can not see that. If very many people are on the ship on the river, there is a good reason for that. It is one of the world's great boat rides !
Try to be one of the first of the people to walk onto the ship at Bacharach, quickly walk to the top deck, and grab chairs. Sit at the middle of the top deck, for the best views. Arrive at Bacharach, 45 minutes before the ship departure time, and walk through Bacharach. It is a visually charming little town. At St. Goar, there is nothing to see in the town. A "tschu-tschu" tourist "train" goes up the hill to the Rheinfels castle. That castle was broken by the French Revolutionary army in 1797, and many of the rocks in the walls were taken away for building houses. The tops of the walls are not there. Seeing that destroyed castle was not appealing to me, but some people like to be there, to see how a castle was built. Riding in a train from St. Goar, you could get off at Boppard, and walk through the town.
Ron
southwest, Missouri U.S.A. 5/22/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
Totally agree. Am thankful somebody is breaking the mold.
Many moons ago, I also did the two-month all over Europe trip with no reservations and nothing but a back pack. It was a blast and reworked my worldview. Highly recommend it. The pillar to pillar plan sounds good. I hope you find the time/money to "take a vacation within a vacation" and just chill on some Greek beach for a week. I confess to being envious. You will likely never be so free again (who knows?) Good luck. Enjoy!
Thomas
Vienna Austria 5/22/13
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Milan to Varenna
What platform Does the train from Milan to Varenna leave from and from what floor as I am lead to believe there are two floors in Milan station.
John
Ellenbrook, W.A. Australia 5/22/13
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RE: FRA layover on a Friday 9pm, too late to get to town for a late bite?
You could also get a budget hotel for the night in Frankfurt. Not sure when you will be here, but it is still light out at 21:00 now, and we still have a month to go til we get the longest day. Trains start running at 04:15 in the morning from Frankfurt to the airport and only take 11 min. to get there. Are you flying to Canada or someplace in Europe?
Excelsior hotel is pretty budget and it is right outside of the South exit of the train station. Double room is anywhere from 68-75 a night depending on the dates. Plus you get breakfast and free mini bar.
Thanks for your prompt reply Jo. our flight departs to LHR at 7am next morning. 11 min commute from train to airport sounds even faster than the wait some people say they have to wait to get a shuttle to an airport hotel, and at 70e is definitely worth exploring. Although we most likely have to check out before breakfast which usually starts at 6am. Are there place to eat or walk arounnd by Hotel Excelsior or do we have to take another train? Would you mind letting me know what my exact route would be with timing?
craig
canada Canada 5/22/13
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Regular trains going the Glacier Express route
Was on the SBB.CH/EN site looking into Zermatt to St. Mortiz trip for 4-JUN.
It looks like all the non-Glacier Express trains go from Zermatt-Vosp-Zurich-Chur-St.Moritz. Do any of the non-Glacier Express trains travel the same route as the Glacier Express trains without going to Zurich? Otherwise, guess we just have to pay to reserve the Glacier Express. Please help - thanks.
craig
canada Canada 5/22/13
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RE: FRA layover on a Friday 9pm, too late to get to town for a late bite?
You could also get a budget hotel for the night in Frankfurt. Not sure when you will be here, but it is still light out at 21:00 now, and we still have a month to go til we get the longest day. Trains start running at 04:15 in the morning from Frankfurt to the airport and only take 11 min. to get there. Are you flying to Canada or someplace in Europe?
Excelsior hotel is pretty budget and it is right outside of the South exit of the train station. Double room is anywhere from 68-75 a night depending on the dates. Plus you get breakfast and free mini bar.
Plenty of places to eat in town at night.
Jo
Frankfurt Germany 5/22/13
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RE: Paris Museum Pass or The Paris Pass?
Leti the math on this one is simple. The Paris Museum Pass is worth it for most people, but the Paris Pass is almost impossible to use the moneys worth of it..
A boat cruise is like 11 euros.
A carnet of tickets ( 10 one way on bus or metro ) is 13 euros..
A Museum Pass plus those still work out way cheaper then the Paris Pass , heck even through in some more metro tickets and its still cheaper to buy the MP and not the PP .
A two day hoho tour is about 35 euros I think, so you see , the PP is just too much money .. buy stuff separately .
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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RE: London-Bath-Edinburg - Need help planning
Is it a good trip itinerary for a plan like:
Flying to Edinburgh for staying three nights
Edinburgh to York for two nights by rail
York to Bath for two nights by Rail
and stay for the last week in London and nearby.
Thanks.
robert
beijing, beijing china 5/21/13
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RE: Provence hotel help!
Three weeks ago, I stayed in St Remy at the Hotel l'Amandiere. It's just outside the center of town, and we found it quite pleasant, with a lovely garden, little balconies off the rooms, and off-street free parking. (Believe me when I say, you will come to truly appreciate this!)
Price (not including the optional 8 euro breakfast) was under 70 euros per night, but that was an April price. You might check for late September rates.
No restaurant on site (except breakfast) but many great options in St. Remy.
JER
Seattle USA 5/21/13
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RE: from Monterosso to Milan
Thank you! That is very helpful! We are on a bit of a whirlwind tour having arrived from Venice in the early pm of June 7...just the rest of the pm and an overnight stay for a short tour of Monterosso, then we'll train up through the rest of the Cinque Terre to Genova and on up to Milan...a bit of a 'scouting tour' for this time. Flying out of Milan to two weeks in the Dordogne area of France, then a week in Paris, too!
Anyway, we now feel better knowing we can just putz along enjoying the scenery in a hop on hop off kind of schedule, should the spirit move us!
Again, appreciate the info...guess I was on an incorrect site or something...who knows?
cathy
victoria, BC Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Canterbury Cathedral
I just stayed at Bulltown B&B a 15th century farmhouse just outside of Ashford, east access to Canterbury anb its about 5-10 min off the motorway, it is a few miles on a 1 1/2 lane road but the area is beautiful. Very reasonable too.
Darren
Galt, Calif. UK 5/21/13
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FRA layover on a Friday 9pm, too late to get to town for a late bite?
Our flight leaves at 7am next am, so we are thinking of roughing it at the airport instead of spending $ at a hotel. Do we have time to take the train and grab a late dinner in town or perhaps some place decent to eat outside of airport?
craig
canada Canada 5/21/13
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RE: St. Gallen and Appenzell, Switzerland and suggestions for itinerary
Laura,
That's an extremely ambitious Itinerary, and it tired me out just reading it. IMO, it's simply FAR too much for such a short time frame and the transportation costs will probably be significant.
Hopefully one of the others will be able to offer some suggestions.
Good luck and happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Getting to paris by train
For going between Nice and Paris, you should also consider flying. EasyJet has low prices if you book far enough ahead and follow their luggage restrictions closely.
Kim
Paris 5/21/13
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RE: Easyjet Carryon Luggage
Laura, it seems you are really stressing out over the EasyJet luggage thing. If you get yourself a little hand-held digital baggage scale you can have complete control over the weight aspect. Then measuring with a tape measure should do the rest. If you really want to, make a lidless box out of some cardboard and duct tape that matches the EJ dimensions exactly and see how your packed bag fits in.
But mainly, scrutinize what you plan to bring and ask yourself what you can really live without for the duration of your travels. It's amazing how little one actually needs to be comfortable, IF you're willing to do a bit of hand laundry each night. If your clothing is quick drying you can mix and match and re-use and never be carrying around any dirty laundry. There are so many tricks to traveling ultra light, and it's kind-of fun to test one's limits.
Rose
NYC 5/21/13
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RE: London to Bath Day Trip
It should be easy to get to Bath from Paddington in time for the Mayor's tour which I second in recommending. Allow at least a couple hours for the Roman Baths tour = it's a great museum and exhibit and much bigger than it looks from the outside. The Abbey is worth touring and I really enjoyed the tour and climb to the roof although your mileage may vary. There is also the fashion museum but unless that's your thing I would let hat slide with only one day.
You can get the best fares by booking your train in advance but if you book "advance" tickets they're only good for that specific train so don't miss it. The Bath train station you're looking for is "Bath Spa".
Enjoy,
=Tod
Tod
San Diego, CA USA 5/21/13
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St. Gallen and Appenzell, Switzerland and suggestions for itinerary
Continuing work on our Switzerland itinerary. We are five people, two adults and kids 13, 11, 11, traveling for 13 days in Switzerland.
1Fly to Genevastay night in Lausanne
2Lausanneday trip to Gruyeres and Cailler chocolate factory, evening in Geneva
3Lausannelake cruise to Chillon, Chateau, walk promenade to Montreux, train to Martigny (we are dog nuts, so go to St. Bernard museum)
4Interlakentrain Montreux to Interlaken, afternoon cruise to Brienz, tour Ballenberg
5Interlakenday trip to Bern, Murten, and Avenches (if time allows)
6InterlakenJungfraujoch and hikes in area (weather permitting)
7Interlakenday trip to Zermatt, Gornergrat and hikes in area (weather permitting)
8InterlakenSchilthorn or Allmendhubel, hikes in area
9Luganotrain via Lucerne to Lugano, (see Bellinzona chateau?) cruise lake and hike area
10-ChurBernina Express bus Lugano to Tirano, train to St. Moritz, continue to Chur for night
11-Lucernetrain Chur to St. Gallen, explore Appenzell, end in Lucerne
12-Lucerneexplore city, do Pilatus, museums and monuments
13-explore Lucerne in am, train to Basel, afternoon flight to Amsterdam
Okay, so, given this itinerary, I am asking about how to best spend my day in the Northeast. My plan was to go to St. Gallen, check out the Abbey and then train to Appenzell. We will be there on a Monday so all the museums are closed (confirmed this on the internet) and we won't have a car. I am wondering if Appenzell is worth the bother (it seems super cute, but not very convenient to us on a train), or if I should head somewhere else instead.
I would LOVE to hear your ideas and the feedback on the intinerary. I realize it is fairly jam-packed, but that is our reality. I am trying to get to all the corners of this amazing country, but there really isn't enough time to see it all.
Thank you!
Laura
Bellevue, WA 5/21/13
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Paris to Interlaken, Interlaken to Venice
Hello,
We will be traveling from Paris to Interlaken, and then after staying in the Alps for a few days, we will be traveling from Interlaken to Venice. I am trying book train tickets, and want to make sure I have all the stations right.
So from Paris to Interlaken:
Paris - Basel - Interlaken East
From Interlaken to Venice:
Interlaken East - Spiez - Milan - Venice
Does this sound right?
Thank you very much!
Hannah
Hannah
Glenview, IL USA 5/21/13
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RE: Firenze
This is the official tourist website for Bologna.
http://www.bolognawelcome.com/en/
Plus you may want to take a look at these:
http://www.bolognanelcuore.net/index.php?page=16
http://www.10cose.it/bologna/cosa-vedere-bologna.html
http://www.arte.it/guide/arte_itinerari.php?lang=it&q=
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Paris Museum Pass or The Paris Pass?
Okay, someone else will jump in (I hope) if I am incorrect about this, but I would recommend the Museum Pass. It is a fabulous deal, not only because it gets you in to the museums with no line, but it gets you in nearly everything.
My recollection is that the Paris Pass adds transportation and a few other things that do not make it worth the additional 100 Euros. We did carnets with my family two years ago and that worked great. And, it was far less expensive.
I would recommend pricing out the places you want to go and things you want to do (all available via internet) to see if you will get your money's worth with the more expensive pass. I suspect you won't. You will get the value out of the Museum pass, though, even if you only want to do Notre Dame, Louvre, Orsay, and Arc de Triomphe. Plus, no lines and you can go in as often as you like (so break up your museums into 1 hour chunks since you can return free!).
Don't forget, in most places kids under 18 are free, so a super deal there. Have a blast!
Laura
Bellevue, WA 5/21/13
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RE: Murren/Lauterbrunnen/Wengen/Grindlewald relatively easy trails in late May?
Here's how things look right now at Männlichen. Doesn't look too promising for hikes.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/21/13
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RE: from Monterosso to Milan
cathy,
I'm not entirely clear on the details of your trip. If you only have one day in Monterosso, where will you be prior to that?
Where are you getting your train information? I checked and didn't see a Monterosso-Milano departure at 14:06. The trips from Monterosso to Milano Centrale are as short as 2H:55M, so you could be back in Milan far earlier than 21:35 (depending on which train you use).
Some additional information would really help.
Cheers!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: from Monterosso to Milan
Where did you get that?
There are 5 direct (no train change required) trains from Monterosso to Milano starting at 05:19am and ending at 14:55. Plus there are 6 more that require changing trains somewhere.
Go to Trenitalia.com and do a search.
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Easyjet Carryon Luggage
Ken
Thanks for your reply. My biggest worry is being off by a small amount (as an earlier poster mentioned, half a wheelyikes!-could get me the super expensive check in price for my bag). Thus, I am trying to be super prepared and measure things a million ways to Sunday to make sure I pre-pay for checked bags or, alternatively, don't need to.
I did have a small brainstorm reading all these posts; I might just pop my bags into one of the Easyjet baggage frame thingies that measures the size of your bag when I arrive at Schilpol airport. Then I will have a chance to check additional bags in advance if they don't fit. Since we don't have that airline here, it is hard to know exactly how it will all work out.
Thanks for your help!
Laura
Laura
Bellevue, WA 5/21/13
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RE: Picking a seat on Eurostar
When I took the Eurostar last month, I had reserved the four seats (two and two facing each other) with a bigger table in front because there was 4 of us traveling together. I actually found it felt like I had lesser legroom than a regular seat, and I'm only 5'1". So, I'm taking it again in October with a party of 4 and this time I will reserve the regular seats. As for the view, I agree that there wasn't much to look at but from what I remember, the windows all appear to be the same size.
Claudette
huntington beach, ca usa 5/21/13
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RE: Good restaurants in Venice
Search for Bacari.
http://www.dissapore.com/mangiare-fuori/nei-peggiori-bacari-di-venezia-cit-dove-mangiare-bene-con-poco-si-puo/
http://viaggi.globopix.net/blogperviaggiatori/tutti-i-post/mangiare-low-cost-venezia-bacari
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/21/13
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Paris Museum Pass or The Paris Pass?
Hi my family and I will be in Paris this August for five days.
We are having a hard time deciding which pass to purchase. Four day Paris Pass is 160.00€ and Paris Museum Pass is 54.00€. We want to so see as many museums & monuments as possible but aren't sure if paying the extra expense for the Paris Pass is worth it?
leti
los angeles 5/21/13
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RE: Austria Regional Pass
DB shows that you will be traveling by train from Scharnitz across the German border to Mittenwald, then on to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, then Reutte, and then making a bus trip from there to Füssen.
The Austrian pass you refer to is called the "Einfach Raus" ticket. It should be good to the German border - not just to Scharnitz station (which isn't quite on the border.) The Bayern Ticket should be good from that same border on to Mittenwald, Garmisch, and Reutte (even on those lines in Austria between Garmisch and Reutte known as the "Ausserfernbahn," which are DB-controlled.) You just need to have your Bayern ticket in hand when you cross the border, so pick it up in Salzburg before you take off. I do not believe the Bayern ticket will work on the entire BUS trip between Reutte and Füssen. You will probably need to pay additionally for the Reutte-Musau segment (about 2.70€.)
Have you actually checked the time involved for all this travel?
Russ
Paradise 5/21/13
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RE: Train tickets from Prague to Vienna
Arun, you don't have to be concerned. It's not like here in the US where you have one or if you are lucky two trains a day. There are 7 direct trains between Prague and Vienna and also many more with a change. Bus is somewhat cheaper but personally I would use train. The fastest buses have scheduled time 4:40, trains 4:45. Many times buses are significantly late because of traffic. Depends on the time of day. And you have to book them ahead. Likelihood of them being full is really high. Not so with the trains.
Ilja
Seattle 5/21/13
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RE: Parking near Venice
The Tronchetto garage. Expensive, but convenient.
Doug
Portlandia 5/21/13
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RE: Difference between National and Local Trains?
Summer,
Having a Railpass will NOT provide transportation in cities (AFAIK). You'll have to buy separate tickets for that. For travel within London, you might consider getting an Oyster Card (deposit required but that is refunded when you return the card).
The best Pass or tickets will vary depending on the city - which cities will you be visiting?
As this is your first trip to Europe, I'd highly recommend reading Europe Through The Back Door prior to your trip. After that, use the country-specific Guidebooks to plan lodgings, sightseeing and transportation in each place you'll be visiting.
You may also find it helpful to download a copy of Rick's Railpass Guide (click the "Railpasses" tab at the top of this page and then look in the lower right corner for the download link).
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Good restaurants in Venice
La Zucca, Alla Madonna are our two favorites.
Rik
Vicenza Italy 5/21/13
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RE: iPhone app (navigation) Germany
Either Navigon or Tomtom. Doesn't matter which one, both are good.
Martin
Dresden 5/21/13
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Provence hotel help!
We just booked a flight to Nice at the end of September.
We also booked two nights at Hotel le Royale, has anyone stayed there? Comments?
I believe that based on info from this site and the RS book, it is not worth driving in Nice. We will pick up a car at the airport as we leave Nice on Day 3.
We are trying to locate a great spot to be the base for the rest of the trip. Based on what I read in the RS Provence book, St. Remy may be the best place to stay since it is close to many great sites and quieter than Avignon and Arles.
I am about to take up the RS recommendation on Les Mas des Carassins. It sounds great until you get them to email you the price. It is 284 Euros! They claim it is still peak season (September 30?, really?) and you must book with meals. I do not want to book with meals.
Looking for another hotel suggestion!
Thanks,
David
Chicago 5/21/13
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RE: bus travel in Turkey
www.ticketlineturkey.com has schedules, but the posted date of 2 years ago makes me a little queezy.
Janet
Pitt Meadows, BC Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Easyjet Carryon Luggage
Laura,
Thanks for the clarification. I was aware of the change occurring on July 2, which I mentioned in my first reply. I may have missed the date that you'd be taking the flight so didn't know whether you'd fall under the new rule, and also wasn't sure about your meaning for "gate checked".
I've found that EasyJet often checks the size of bags both prior to security and again at the gate. Any that don't fit the sizing frame are placed in the hold and the passenger is charged extra. In one incident that I witnessed with an EasyJet departure from Rome, the gate staff and a passenger got into a huge argument and the Pilot finally had to be called. He told the passenger "I decide what flies on this airplane and THAT bag is not going in the cabin", which ended the argument quite abruptly.
One other recent change with EasyJet is that I don't believe they're offering check-in at the airport any longer, so you'll have to check-in online and print your boarding passes. There was quite a lengthy discussion on that topic on the HelpLine recently. I've just received notification that I can now check-in for my flight and print my boarding pass, although it won't be departing for about a month.
They're also testing mobile check-in and boarding passes using Smartphones but this feature is currently only available for departures from 15 airports.
Cheers!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Rome transport
Thanks, I will be coming into FCO. I just saw some info on the SITBus, it is 8 or 9 euros. Has anyone tried that one?
Annie
Golden Valley, MN United States 5/21/13
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RE: Sightseeing during airport change.
I generally agree that your transfer is too tight to swing through London proper. The completely safe and prudent thing to do is to proceed directly to Gatwick.
HOWEVER, if you are a bit nutty, AND willing to take a risk (note that many on this board are not), AND if you clear Heathrow lickety split, AND if you can quickly propel yourselves outside to grab a cab, well, I say go for it. Tell the cabbie you want to swing through London and glimpse Big Ben or the Tower or whatever it is you are dying to see on your way to Gatwick. He'll think you're crazy, but for the fare he'll do it. London cabbies are super knowledgable, really unlike anywhere else in the world, so you don't need a more expensive limo driver to be an impromptu guide. London traffic is hideous so you won't have time to get out and DO anything, but you'll get to ride on the other side of the road and catch a glimpse of the storybook city.
My husband and I did this once when we were young and crazy. We literally hopped out of the cab and stared at the Louvre for 5 minutes just so we could set foot in Paris. We still talk about that awesome moment! And of course we have returned to Paris many times since.
So if it suits your personality and you can get to Gatwick in time for the next flight (2 hrs ahead, ask the cabbie), live on the edge! Online check in and only carry ons can cut the arrival time to 90 min. ahead.
Angela
Sammamish, WA 5/21/13
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RE: Eiffel Tower tickets sold out please help
Sorry harriet you cannot buy tickets for stairs in advance , only walk up.
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Picking a seat on Eurostar
All seats seem to have windows, but don't get too excited, the scenery is minimal,, you'll see... sort of like taking the train through the middle of praires...
All seats have relatively same leg room, it was comfy enough for 2.5 hours. Plus remember you can get up and walk around , go to bar car ( lets call it a concession car because that's whats really there.. ) etc. Bring your own picnic for sure.
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Eiffel Tower tickets sold out please help
Great information! Thanks Pat and Harriet.
leti
los angeles 5/21/13
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RE: tirol, salzburg, and eagles net
I don't think it would be my first choice. I think if you picked one you could have a meaningful time. It sounds more like a drive by to try for all three in a day. Tirol is a little vague, did you have a place in mind? All three options are great. Like I said I would just pick one.
Janelle
Spokane, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Quick Paris visit - airport transportation advice, please!
There are taxis that can take 5 people and luggage from CDG. The dispatcher will get one for you. The downside is the possibility that you might have to wait for one, but it is also possible that you will be the last group dropped off by the shuttle service. Also, a shuttle for five will probably cost more than 1 taxi. To get to Orly, just ask the staff at the Park Hyatt Vendome to arrange your transportation to Orly. When I travel with my extended family, I use eurojs (www.eurojs.com) to get to the airport, but they are pricey. There are other options for getting from CDG to your hotel like the RER (check out www.parisbytrain.com) or the Air France buses (www.lescarsairfrance.com if you want to look into those.
JH
Palo Alto, California United States 5/21/13
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RE: Rome transport
Annie,
The "best" method (especially for one person) will be the Leonardo Express as there are frequent departures, it's not affected by traffic and it goes directly to Roma Termini.
You can buy your ticket at the FCO airport rail station, but DON'T forget to validate the ticket prior to boarding the train or you'll likely get a hefty fine, which will be collected on the spot (FINES START AT €50 PP)! You can see the route you'll need to follow at FCO by having a look at the excellent www.roninrome.com website.
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Cruising the French Canals
My husband and I have done a canal cruise 4 times, the last time 2 years ago. We have used the company Locaboat each time. We liked the look of the "old time barge" look of some of the smaller boats. We have done 2 sections of the Canal du Midi. We chose this canal because it is in southwest France and because there are more locks than on most other canals. The sections we went on had 66 locks - some of them doubles and a few triples. We enjoy meeting lock keepers where there are still some and also interacting with other boater while in the locks or waiting in line. We haven't seen many Americans on the canal. We also like stopping whereever we like and looking for a market or restaurant. On our 1st trip, we did it with just the 2 of us in 2002 (we were in our 60's then) but since have had another couple along to help with ropes, etc. Hope to go again someday. It is an adventure!
barb
Barb
Andover, MN USA 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
christie,
From Lauterbrunnen, there are two routes you can use:
> Take the Post Bus (bright yellow, you can't miss it) to Stechelberg and then the cable car to Gimmelwald and Mürren (it's a spectacular ride - be sure to have your camera ready).
You might want to have a short look around Gimmelwald, one of Rick's favourite towns in that area. Have a "cool one" at the Pension and then continue to Mürren (you can also walk on a paved trail rather than take the cable car, but of course it's uphill).
> Take the Cable Car to Grütschalp (terminal is right across the street from the Lauterbrunnen rail station) where you'll connect with the small BLM mountain railway for the short trip to Mürren. You'll arrive at the opposite end of town from the cable car.
You could (for example) take the Cable Car TO Mürren and then return via the BLM railway.
I haven't stayed at Hotel Staubbach but have seen it. I'm sure you'll have a wonderful stay there. If you have time, I'd suggest having dinner at Hotel Oberland one night. The food is great (at least IMHO)! I especially enjoyed the Oberland Rösti.
Cheers!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: kd rhine cruise
"...should we take an early train from cologne to Bacharach, cruise downstream..."
A quick look at the KD schedule will point out that such a trip is impossible. You will need to take a train to the Middle Rhine area, cruise the Bingen-St. Goar segment, then return to Cologne by train.
The cruise is nice enough, but I am not a gigantic fan of the idea, especially in summer or on weekends. It can be hot and crowded and somewhat tedious. You can enjoy the area by train instead if you wish. Trains run every hour or better between the towns, and daypasses are an inexpensive way to hop on and off at Bacharach, Oberwesel, St. Goar (Rheinfels Castle), Braubach (Marksburg Castle), and/or Boppard. If you want to get an early start from Cologne, plan to go on Saturday or Sunday, when the "Happy Weekend" daypass lets 2-5 people travel at any hour (on other days, you're stuck with starting after 9 am if you want to take advantage of the daypasses.)
Russ
Paradise 5/21/13
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from Monterosso to Milan
Seems the train from Monterosso to Milan leaves at 14:06 and gets into Milan at 21:35. Are there no early trains we could hop on/hop off on along the Cinque Terre to Genoa so as to enjoy that area in the am...then catch the train later in Genoa to head up to Milan?
Would a bus be better or should we just hike along in the am until we get tired, then hop a train to Milan?
We arrive in Monterosso June 7 and just have the day to explore there...must get up to our hotel at Milan airport for an 11 am flight June 9.
cathy
victoria, BC Canada 5/21/13
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Cheese plate in Venice (shop for)
Have a three bedroom apartment in Venice and would like a shop in which to buy cheese, meats, wine to take back. Any suggestions on a market?
Oh yes, near Rialto...
Thanks
Scott
Denver, CO USA 5/21/13
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Parking near Venice
Lots of (expensive) options yes, what's your suggestions?
Thanks
Scott
Denver, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Good restaurants in Venice
Guess not...
(Always hate to see no reply's...)
Scott
Denver, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Jungfrau rail cost per RS site
craig,
As Lola mentioned, the Jungfraujoch is on the opposite side of the valley from Mürren, so the only thing above that is the Schilthorn. Therefore the Swiss Pass will provide 50% discount for the cable car to Piz Gloria (from Mürren).
For the trip to the Jungfrau, if I'm reading correctly the Pass will provide a 25% discount for that portion of the trip above Wengen or Grindelwald. You'll have to go through either Wengen or Grindelwald on the way to Kleine Scheidegg, which is where you'll transfer to the Jungfraubahn.
If you're primarily interested in visiting the Jungfraujoch, you might also have a look at the Jungfrau VIP Pass, as shown here:
http://shop.jungfrau.ch/en/bergbahn/vip-pass
It provides unlimited travel for three days, including one trip to the Jungfraujoch. It does NOT include the Schilthorn lifts though. Having a Swiss Card and also a Jungfrau VIP Pass would provide discounts for lifts on both sides of the valley (and the VIP Pass is cheaper with a Swiss Pass).
I used a similar Pass last September and it worked well. You'll have to choose carefully which day you visit the Jungfraujoch as the weather can be "unpredictable". Unfortunately as there's a time limit on the VIP Pass, that doesn't provide much leeway.
I found it a daunting and confusing task to analyze the various Passes to try and figure out which one would be the most cost effective for the places I'd be visiting. Eventually, I just picked one that appeared to be best, and went with that.
One final point - be sure that your tickets are in order in Switzerland, as they've reportedly started to follow the Italian example of fining those with any "irregularities" with their tickets.
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Spain White hill town - Ronda
Thanks a lot Matt, Brad and Chani -
I will definitely stay in Ronda and spend more time there.
Vidyasagar
Cupertino, CA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
Do you think the French have access to a blog or website to blend in when visiting the US? I think not.
They don't need to - they get all their style tips from seeing how American tourists dress while in Paris. ;) And from their fascination with watching American TV shows.
I found this interesting in Wikipedia:
London claimed the Fashion Capital crown from New York (the 2010 Fashion Capital) in 2011 and repeated in 2012. The ascendance of Kate Middleton and the London Olympics were frequently cited as being instrumental in London's rise. In 2009, Milan claimed the title of top fashion capital for the media. Both Milan and Paris have longstanding traditions of excellence and creativity in design. Milanese fashion is regarded as the most sophisticated and admired, concentrating equally on ready-to-wear clothes as well as haute couture, while Paris' focus lies mostly in "Haute Couture".
Personally, I think the elegant boulevards and promenades of Paris, the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Tuileries were more interesting when people took greater care about their appearance. Today, everyone just looks the same, in the ubiquitous uniform of jeans, T-shirt, and sneakers of one kind or another. At least the scarves - on both men and women - add a dash of elegance.
My opinion, and only my opinion.
Rose
NYC 5/21/13
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Firenze
I will be spending 7 days in Firenze. Would it be worth the train
Trip to spend the day in Bologna? What would you see for the day?
Thanks again for any ideas and help.
Leaving to Italy on Friday!
Virginia
Portland, Maine USA 5/21/13
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iPhone app (navigation) Germany
Any suggested app's for iPhone 5 using GPS maps "off line?" Germany and Italy are on my itinerary.
Danke
Scott
Denver, CO USA 5/21/13
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Suggested Itinerary Bristol / Wales / Cornwall
I would love some advice please. My husband and I (from New Zealand) are arriving in Bristol at midday from Nice, mid October. We're hiring a car for 5 days and want to see something of Wales (Cardiff or Swansea perhaps for the first night?) St Michaels Mount, Port Isaac, Padstow. We have been to Bath in the past so we might just perhaps pop in there but not to stay. We're pretty fast tourists, not needing to stay too long in one place and would love any advice on timing, accommodation etc. We're returning the car to Bristol airport then catching the train to London. Many thanks in advance. Marie
Marie
Christchurch New Zealand 5/21/13
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RE: Murren/Lauterbrunnen/Wengen/Grindlewald relatively easy trails in late May?
craig,
Depending on the severity of your "bad knees", one fairly easy hike you might consider is the walk down from Allmendhubel. Take the Funicular up from Mürren and then walk down. THIS Photo provides an example of part of the route (that's a hotel/restaurant on the left, where you can stop for a "cool one").
Although it's downhill, the slope is very gradual and it may not cause you too much trouble. You'll walk through alpine meadows with cows grazing (you'll hear the bells). I can't remember if the slope changes a lot at the end, but don't remember it being too steep.
I don't know if the Funicular will be operating in late May (I'd have to check).
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: London to Bath Day Trip
If you can get to Bath by 10:30 AM (including the short walk from the train station to the Pump Room), the 2-hour FREE 'Mayor of Bath Honorary Guides' Walking Tour is excellent. Just meet by the sign in front of the Pump Room in the square behind the Abbey. It will give you a fabulous introduction to the city's history and architecture. Includes walking to the elegant Circus and the Royal Crescent. You will have time to go into the Pump Room and the Abbey afterward, and the rest of the day to explore this beautiful city after getting the overview during the tour.
http://visitbath.co.uk/things-to-do/tours-and-sightseeing/mayor-of-bath-honorary-guides-p43001
Rose
NYC 5/21/13
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RE: Rome transport
Hi Annie- by "best", do you mean cheapest or fastest?
There is a €4 shuttle that runs every 40-50 minutes (I think) and will get you to Termini in an estimated 50 minutes (terravision.eu).
There is also the €14 Leonardo Express train that will make the trip in 32 minutes. It runs every half hour.
After I typed all this, I realized that I am not sure which Rome airport you are referring to, FCO or CIA?
Monique
Pittsburgh, PA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Southern Italy
Just got back from Puglia and would have liked more time in Bari of all places.
Stopped overnight to catch an early flight out of the airport so didn't have much time there, but liked the city quite a bit. The tomb of St.Nicholas was the most beautiful tomb I have ever seen. People in Bari were very nice and very helpful. You also might consider Trani as a stop on your return, or you can head west and stop in Salerno, Naples, or Caserta.
rachele
napa 5/21/13
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How to get to St. Beatus-Höhlen caves from Murren
www.beatushoehlen.ch/index.php?lg=3&sec_id=24
The direction from the website is not very specific. Please help.
craig
canada Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Pligliano a Mare
Was wandering through Polignano a Mare last week and stumbled upon this restaurant. The sign posted stated that the prix fixe dinner was I do believe 100 euro, not 50. Our Lonely Planet guidebook stated that if you ask, they will show you the restaurant. That was a joke. It appeared that the only way to see the place was to suck up big bucks. Personally, I don't think it is worth it.
rachele
napa 5/21/13
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London to Bath Day Trip
We will have 1 free day (Saturday) in London in August and would like to travel to Bath by train from Paddington. Please advise how we can see the Roman Baths and any other suggested site. Do we need a guided tour? Can we walk there from the train station? What other sites close by would you recommend visiting? Where is a good place for lunch? I am so excited . . . . .
Jan
Jan
Berkeley Heights, NJ 5/21/13
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Picking a seat on Eurostar
Is there more leg room with the seats with a table or are the regular seats good. Main thing is to have a big window to look out. :)
Shelley
Ardrossan, Alberta Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
Fashion is pretty universal in the western world anymore. It appears that it is also generational. Just as I would not wear sheer black pantyhose with leather hot pants in Rome, it is also popular in Atlanta at the club scene here. Darn! A few years too late! Personally, I'm a dress-up type, but fashion really doesn't change much in the west. Wear the nicest stuff you can stand to wear and be done with it. I recently returned from Rome with my 64 year old father and all he wanted to do was see stuff and not feel bad so I get that too. Hideous shoes and 'breathable' shirts where overlooked. I just wanted the poor man to enjoy himself!
Leslie
Atlanta, Georgia 5/21/13
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RE: Restaurant suggestions for Bologna
Thanks for the suggestions, I look forward to trying one of them!
Brian
Louisville, KY US 5/21/13
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RE: Chatsworth House & Haddon Hall - Best days to visit?
I will be there in August, so I'm assuming it might be pretty busy. I was wondering if they have a daily limit, so just trying to figure out which day to go.
Jonna
Seattle 5/21/13
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RE: Murren/Lauterbrunnen/Wengen/Grindlewald relatively easy trails in late May?
If the snow has melted enough you can try the hike from Mannlichen cable car station above Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg...it's mostly flat. Also the valley floor hike from the Stechelberg cable car station (or Trummelbach Falls) to Lauterbrunnen should be easy on knees. Both described in Rick's excellent and informative guidebook.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/21/13
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RE: London/Scotland Itinerary
A good source for Scotland advice is Undiscoveredscotland.co.uk.
Kathy
Chicagoland 5/21/13
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RE: Suore di Santa Elisabetta - Rome lodging
Rome hotels are relatively expensive.
Suore di Santa Elisabetta is another of Ricks European gems. Very basic but so much value to see this great city without breaking the bank. A very diverse clientele - almost all middle class of all ages and various nationalities. The nuns more or less strongly encourage you into speaking a little Italian. They were awesome. Be prepared to speak with your hands if "words" fail you. Remember their first language is Polish, but if you try a few Italian words with them you can get by with humour on both sides.
Great area. 10 min walk to train station. Across street from police station. Grocery store across plaza. Roof top patio awesome - take a few vinos or other libations with you. Free breakfast will set you up for the day
Stayed here for 5 nights approx. 4 years ago. They never asked for a credit card until e checked out !! Will be back in Nov. Thanks Rick for yet another awesome value for money location.
Lon S
lon
markham, on canada 5/21/13
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RE: Jungfrau rail cost per RS site
No. Above Mürren you are on the cable car up the Schilthorn.
Lola
Seattle, WA 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
The assumption that my objections about blending in is correct. I see lots of tourists whe I live, and even the user fashionable ones don't blend in. If the concern is safety, well, I am sure pickpockets and con artists are attuned to subtler clues than just fanny packs. For the record, I like to travel as stylishly as possible, especially in cities like Paris and London! But if that's not people's bag, then I don't think it will detract much. My husband wears a fanny pack (sigh) and we get treated the same when traveling. We are in our 30's, by the way.
On a related note, I once saw Italian tourists near me (I live near some hostels) and one guy had bright white sneakers on. Maybe there ARE blogs about fitting in when visiting the US....
Christina
New York, NY 10025 5/21/13
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RE: iPad or notebook
I tried saving as a PDF and into ibooks but I can't edit it from here. any ideas?
Shelley
Ardrossan, Alberta Canada 5/21/13
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Jungfrau rail cost per RS site
http://www.ricksteves.com/rail/switzerland.cfm#deals
Where it says 'Jungfrau Region Railways' with Swiss Pass '50% discount above Murren; 25% off above Wengen or Grindelwald' - does it mean you can get up to Jungfrau from Murren BLM and only pays 50%?
craig
canada Canada 5/21/13
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RE: advice itinerary Switzerland
In regards to driving, I will defer to Jim in Bern, Switz. Now.....if you aren't set on driving, most/some/many of us would probably suggest use of train and stop in Luzern(approx. 60 min.) spend at least one full day considering you have 4 days. Consider Mt. Rigi or my favorite, Mt. Pilatus , the golden version( you get on boat and travel on Lake) then a cogwheel train up the mountain, ride a gondola down. Following day head towards Interlaken/Lauterbrunnen area. Here you have a lot of choices. This area can be reached by car as well. Many choices, Wengen, Murren, etc. Consider a trip to Schilthorn or To the Top of Europe(Jungfrau). The use of trains here can get pricey, which leads to what type of "train pass" to purchase.Many of the prime choices of Hotels may already be reserved; you'll need to act quickly. Good Luck!
Jim
Dallas, Texas USA 5/21/13
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Murren/Lauterbrunnen/Wengen/Grindlewald relatively easy trails in late May?
Are there any relatively easy walking trails with great scenary that does not involve walking downhill (bad knees)too much?
craig
canada Canada 5/21/13
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Rome transport
I am looking for the best way to get from the Rome Airport to Termini station at about noon on a Monday. Any help appreciated.
Annie
Golden Valley, MN United States 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
Really Douglas - funny we never see anyone posing the what should I wear question about London, Warsaw, Madrid, Berlin, Prague, or Frankfurt.
Nope it's always about the over-rated fashion (dress) in Paris. Those days have passed Paris by a long, long time ago.
George
Canada 5/21/13
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Sorrento to Agropoli and Paestum
My parents, 9 year old son and I will be staying in Sorrento for 5 nights. We would like to take a day trip to Agropoli and Paestum or vice versa from Sorrento. What is the best way to travel to both towns? Ideally we would like to visit Agropoli first then head to Paestum to see the ruins and maybe head to the beach for a while. We have no time restraints as long as transportation is available. Any information is appreciated.
Kathy
Fort Lee, NJ 5/21/13
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RE: Sleepin g in Bologna
In Sept. 2010 my husband and I stayed at Albergo Drapperie in Bologna which is located in the heart of bologna. www.albergodrapperie.com Was in a great location and perfectly comfortable. Check out "Eataly" which is closeby.
Janet
Maple Grove, MN 5/21/13
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RE: wifi in italy
Not so fast. The mini 3G is neither locked nor limited to Verizon's service. It will work in Europe. Data service in Italy is cheap. Research Trip Advisor Rome forum for details.
Tex
Denton 5/21/13
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RE: Easy Beach Excursion From Rome
Thanks! That sounds like a good plan to me.
David
David
Dallas, Texas USA 5/21/13
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RE: Upgrades to first class
Do it ASAP! I keep telling my in-laws even though it hurts me 'If you don't fly First-Class, your heirs will'. It's OK to live a little, especially at that $. Enjoy your London trip. Great place to go with the family.
Leslie
Atlanta, Georgia 5/21/13
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RE: St. Petersburg
One thing we loved was Peter's Walking Tour. Wonderful way to explore the backside of the incredibly beautiful city. The main peter'swalk takes you to important buildings and parks that beef up the usual diet.
nancy
bethesda, md us 5/21/13
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Vatican Museum Tour after Papal Audience Wednesday
Hello! =)
We're finalizing our trip to Italy this June, but still debating on whether it will be wise or "doable" to attend the Papal Audience on Wednesday (which we have tickets already) AND then take a Vatican Museum tour at 1pm?
Please and Thank you in advance!
Tina
La Vista 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
I would second the advice about bringing/buying a scarf. Obviously not with the shorts, but it should work with the rest of your wardrobe. Not only does almost everyone wear them (even in summer), but they are amazingly versatile for temperature changes. I usually get inexpensive ones at Forever 21, H&M, Charming Charlie's or wherever young people in your area shop.
Patty
Steilacoom, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Spain train tkts
I responded on your post under Transportation. Best to stick to one thread to prevent confusion.
Lola
Seattle, WA 5/21/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
I understand what Ed says. There's nothing quite as fun as unplanned travel. Go where the wind blows; stay as long as you like. Presumably, though, Craig has more than a couple of places he wants to see on this trip. Say e.g. it's Marrakech, Cairo, Rome, wherever. My suggestion is do what you want along the way but get to the places you think you'll regret not visiting on the trip. btw this is what a buddy and I did on our 2 month backpack trip to Europe after college too many years ago to count. It was the best trip of my life.
Tex
Denton 5/21/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
I'd give AF an 7 out of 10 and KLM a 6 out of 10 for coach. For Business, no contest. AF get's a 9, KLM still gets a 6 even with the cute Delft houses full of gin. The meals on AF are double the quality (and they still kind of suck) compared to KLM. Alcohol is a different story :) Do yourself a huge favor and forget about Emirates customer service. This is old school how it used to be and too bad it still isn't standard. Delta is more your guide ruler here.
Leslie
Atlanta, Georgia 5/21/13
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RE: Spain train tkts
Rumbo.es does offer the discounted fares ( now called Promo fares) if they are available in Renfe for the same train. So does the agency Petrabax, billed as the " official" agency for Renfe.
Before attempting any purchase of train tickets,I read up and learned two things. Mone is that you should register your card with Verified by Visa before attempting the purchase, as the Renfe site will lookmformthat when it says " contacting your bank." If you are not registered,math at may cause immediate rejection of your card.
The other tip was that you can get Renfe to recognize and accept your card if you first make a purchase from Rumbo.es. SomImtried that and avoided any " battle" with Renfe. After purchasing one pair of tickets to Toledo on Rumbo, I was able to buy six more pairs of tickets for travel from Barcelona to Madrid, to Cordoba, Sevilla, all at the discounted price, and all without a hitch.
The ticket from Rumbo was charged as two separate transactions, the ticket fee charged to Renfe, and the agency fee charged to Rumbo. (It may be more than 5€, depending in the cost of the ticket). I received the same printable ticket that I got with my successive purchases on Renfe. So I recommend a couple of tries on Renfe, but if that doesn't work, done transaction with Rumbo.es, and then try Renfe again ( assuming you have registered with VbyV). In either case you must call your bank first to advise you will be making a purchase in Spain so they don't reject it as fraud.
Lola
Seattle, WA 5/21/13
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RE: Just a reminder...
Kevin, Of course, Montalbano, Mimi, Fazio, and Catarella are faves. I believe I have seen every episode. Then there is Inspector Colliandro out of Bologna. Colliandro while younger and hipper than Montalbano is quite a cockup. And yes, Zen, the English version you mentioned has made it across the Pond. Have you seen France's "Blood on the Vine", so named because of murder in the wine country? The star's role is that of an expert in viticulture in the Bordeaux? region. His "nose" helps him solve murders too.
Lou
San Jose, California U.S.A. 5/21/13
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RE: Easyjet Carryon Luggage
Good to hear there is good space under the seats. I don't mind eating a kneecap for 2 hours frankly, but don't want to get my stuff misplaced as we will be very tired having flown from the West Coast of the US by the time we get on our first flight (Norwegian, with a whole different set of rules from Easyjet).
I don't mind hard and fast rules, but I want to make sure I don't do something wrong inadvertently and wind up with the huge penalty at check-in time. To that end, and to my husband's complete shock, I have already packed for a trip in two months to just see how it all fits together. That is what I think is "crazy." It isn't really a comment on the UK :).
I am just so used to having a purse and a piece of luggage, where, if the luggage must be checked due to lack of space, no biggie, you can put essentials in your purse (electronics, etc.). With just one bag, it throws that paradigm off quite a bit, so I am trying to be proactive.
Thanks again for all the input, it is so beneficial to me as a newbie Easyjet customer!
Laura
Bellevue, WA 5/21/13
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RE: airline security
On my recent trip to Croatia via LHR I found they are much more serious about security in the UK and EU. They removed many items from my carry-on bag and sorted those with a battery for more scrutiny..this included my travel alarm clock, camera, etc. I had to take out my I-Pad but did not have to remove my shoes. I did have to remove my plastic 3-1-1 bag and my watch. Plan accordingly as lines can be longer during peak travel times.
Paula
Arlington, TX USA 5/21/13
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RE: Upgrades to first class
You don't indicate which airline, so I'm not sure how "flat" you can get, but being able to flatten out and sleep is a big bonus for arrival. We've flown direct and through JFK and Chicago -we've always wanted to sleep.
You should also be eligible shorter check-in and security lines, plus lounge use. As mentioned, some airlines will allow you to use their lounges on arrival. That's an added bonus if you're arriving well before check-in because you can do a decent freshen-up before starting your day. I've only been able to do first class once with miles (apparently not too many want to travel to London in January), but American had a different lounges at JFK for business and first class.
So, at $500, I'd do it
Patty
Steilacoom, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: advice itinerary Switzerland
Thanks Jim for the advice. I will be flying into Zurich and renting a car there, I'd like to know what are the best places to visit in Switzerland if I'm going to be there for 4 days?
Nestor
Weston, Florida USA 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
Everyone seems to think it is important to blend in and not appear to be a tourist (especially in France). Do you think the French have access to a blog or website to blend in when visiting the US? I think not.
Paula
Arlington, TX USA 5/21/13
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Driving in Serbia
My family is going to Serbia in July for a week and I am wondering about renting a driving a car while there. We land in Belgrade and travel to Valjevo to visit family. Any suggestions about how easy/hard it is to drive there?
Marie
Ottawa, on Canada 5/21/13
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Difference between National and Local Trains?
My sister and I will be visiting Europe for the first time this summer! We will be visiting Britain, France, Italy, and Spain and doing quite a bit of hopping from city to city. I feel pretty comfortable figuring out the best way to get from city to city. However, I'm a little confused about traveling within a city. Say I buy the BritRail pass which will get me from London to Bristol to Bath and back. Will that also allow me to travel around London for the three or four days we plan on spending there? Or is that a completely separate pass?
Summer
Bremen, IN United States 5/21/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
I've had excellent experiences on Air France, including an Economy flight on an A380 double-decker jumbo jet. Best Economy flight experience I've ever had. Very organized, orderly, quick boarding through multiple jetways on 2 levels (over 500 passengers); complimentary champagne; a multi-position footrest at every seat; loads of underseat space; USB port at every seat (to charge iPhone/iPad); decent food and drink; courteous service with a smile; excellent entertainment choices; precise on-time take-off and early landing at CDG - basically as good as it gets for an Economy international flight, though I've never flown Emirates.
Low airfare is important, but I now pay much closer attention to the equipment. It could change, of course, after booking, but I will always seek out and fly an A380 whenever possible from now on. The high comfort level is worth a little higher fare. This flight happened to be cheaper than other available options for my dates.
Rose
NYC 5/21/13
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RE: Chatsworth House & Haddon Hall - Best days to visit?
What time of year are you touring? Chatsworth is open everyday except Xmas week.
It is probably best to purchase your ticket online to guarantee entry on the day you wish to visit...during the summer and bank holidays. We visited in April and had no trouble just dropping in. However since the house has been featured on PBS and I assume BBC, it might attrack a bigger crowd now. I believe that they may limit the amount of people by timed tickets. By the way it is really worth it!
Kathleen
Camano Island, WA usa 5/21/13
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RE: Traveling europe and managing money/conversion & acccess to getting more $
I have always used my ATM card (from Chase) with no problems. However,there is a fee of 3% of the withdrawal after conversion to US dollars. For instance, a withdrawal of the equivalent of $100 will cost you an extra $3. Check with your bank about their fees. Be sure you give them a "vacation alert" for the period you'll be gone so that your card won't be denied during your trip. Get your first euros at an ATM in the airport NOT a money changing operation. That way you'll have taxi fare and spending cash when you leave the airport. I think it would be best to have cash rather than use a credit card because: 1) you'll be using your own money without incurring interest charges and 2) less chance of a hassle with cash. While it might be tempting to pay for your hotel with a credit card, remember that many places will give you a discount if you pay cash.
I recently found out about Charles Schwab which offers an ATM card with NO fees. You can open the account online, fund the account, get their ATM card in 5 days and you're on your way.I just opened my account and will fund it tomorrow for my two week trip to Spain in June.
Use RS and Trip Advisor to find hotels and make reservations online. Trip Advisor has traveler's photos of the hotel and their comments about their stay along with helpful tips about the hotel. There is also an interactive map so that you can check the location of any hotel you're interested in and see what others are nearby.
George
STUDIO CITY, California USA 5/21/13
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RE: Napoli Centrale & Luggage Storage
Thank you so much Gregory...I appreciate your assistance.
Sheron
Alta Loma, CA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Glasgow hotel convenient to Airport
Thank you all for the info. Pam, bus sounds like a great idea. Our flight is at about 10am.
Stacey
Littleton, Co 5/21/13
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RE: Paris to Spain
You can take the train, I flew on Easyjet, its cheap and fairly fast even figuring the time getting to and from airports. I would look at Vueling too. Trains are fine, mostly nighttrains but they usually aren't cheaper , but just for my personal comfort I choose to fly if train voyage is longer then 5-6 hours.
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Driving through east / central Europe to Greece
Thank you all for your thoughtful and insightful responses and suggestions. Obviously there are many ways to skin a cat. In this case, after considering both options and spending hours (literally) searching for budget airfare and calculating driving costs / times, we've decided to dump the leased car and fly sort of a reverse open-jaw to Greece and back. I found a reasonable fare from Vienna to Athens, then from Athens back to Frankfurt to pick up our return flight back to the states. Now we'll rent a car one-way from Frankfurt to Vienna. The net cost will probably be a few hundred $$ more, but considering it saves 4 full days of driving, I'd say it'll definitely be worth it.
Now, any suggestions for a nice weekly villa on the Peloponnese coast? :-0
Philip
Denver, Colorado United States 5/21/13
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RE: Traveling with a toddler
Paris has some lovely parks, but no lakes inside city..
It does have the river to cruise up and down, but can't say if that's what OP has in mind.
Amsterdam is lovely with all the canals, and Brugges.. perhaps combine a trip to all three, fly into one city, say Paris, spend 5-6 days, take train to Bruggges for 2-3 days and finish in Amsterdam and fly home from there.
Copenhagen may in fact be too cool for someone used to a lot of heat, its taking your chances when you go that far north in june.
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Traveling europe and managing money/conversion & acccess to getting more $
ATMs are abundant in Europe. I've been to Europe on numerous occasions and have never had an issue getting cash from an ATM in any city. I usually carry about 200 euro on me (or equivalent). The only issue I've encountered with the use of credit cards was when I forgot to inform my banks and credit card companies that I would be traveling. The cards were refused in restaurants (except for AmEx) until I called and notified the banks and credit card companies. My fault, not theirs. We haven't encountered many surprise fees, but be aware of expensive tolls on the major interstates.
Gregory
Spokane, WA USA 5/21/13
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Spain train tkts
On page 891 of his "Spain" book, RS says that successfully fighting the Renfe web site could net one an online discount of up to 60%. On the same page, he says that the website of a travel agency Rumbo offers discounted tkts for a 5 euro fee.
Can one obtain the same discounted tkts through Rumbo that are available through Renfe for the 5 euro fee
George
STUDIO CITY, California USA 5/21/13
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Spain train tkts
On page 891 of his "Spain" book, RS says that successfully fighting with the Renfe web site could net one an online discount of 60%. On the same page, RS mentions the web site of a travel agencey rumbo which also sells discounted tkts for a fee of E5.
Can one obtain the same 60% discount through this agency or should one persist with the Renfe fight?
George
STUDIO CITY, California USA 5/21/13
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RE: Easyjet Carryon Luggage
I took an Easyjet flight last month. I found that my (soft sided) carry-on bag, which is the same size as the one you plan to use, fitted under the seat in front with a little room to spare. So full overhead bins should not affect you. I am short so I don't have a problem doing this but if legroom is an issue maybe put it in front of the member of your family with the shortest legs!
PS - Easyjet have no weight limit for carry-on but you must be able to lift it into the overhead bins unaided.
Linda
Bromley, Kent, UK 5/21/13
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RE: Napoli Centrale & Luggage Storage
I found the following answer for you on the Fodor's website. I hope it helps.
There are luggage storage at the entrance to the Pompeii Scavi complex and also a left luggage room at Napoli Centrale train station.
http://www.grandistazioni.it/cms/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=e3e272ceeae7b110VgnVCM1000003f16f90aRCRD
Gregory
Spokane, WA USA 5/21/13
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Traveling europe and managing money/conversion & acccess to getting more $
We have never been to Europe for an extended stay/travel. I've been to Rome and Prague but only on business.
My boys and I are going to be in Europe for 14 days. Need to know how best to manage money. How much to take (rought estimate). How to get more (atm, atm at banks, etc). Are credit/debit cards ok? Are there lots of fees (both in europe and here(USA)).
Just looking for any input that might be helpful with managing our finances during our visit.
Thanks for your help.
Douglas
union, KY usa 5/21/13
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RE: Brugge to Amsterdam
We looked online at departure times and just bought our tickets at the station the day we traveled. Not sure if you will save more purchasing now versus same day. Hopefully others will help out also. Have a safe trip!
bruce
sauk rapids, mn 5/21/13
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RE: bus travel in Turkey
I'm just shooting off the cuff, but if it's an overnight bus, I think 1.5 hour leeway seems plenty (shouldn't be any traffic on those roads then). Just curious, but where did you find the bus schedules online? I had to wing it with a Lonely Planet guide and actually check exact times at the bus station.
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Traveling with a toddler
The OP lives in Mumbai so I doubt heat and crowds are a great concern.
Norma
Montreal, Quebec Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Cruise Excursion Provence
I recommend you get Rick's book, Mediterranean Cruise Ports. We used it on the cruise portion of our European trip last summer and it was invaluable. By the way, we chose to take a bus to Aix and spend the day there, having a relaxing lunch and strolling through the open market, but Rick's book will provide you with many options and how to do them yourself if you wish. He also suggests when it is more ideal to take a ship's excursion. Enjoy!
Sandi
Ontario, California USA 5/21/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
Thanks for the encouraging report, Agnes.
Don't worry, ROY, I won't get my hopes too high. :)
Brenda
Carterville, Illinois United States 5/21/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
I flew KLM/ Air France recently and really liked it - the plane wasn't even full so I had plenty of space and lots of stuff to do (movies, music, etc.) The food and alcohol were great too - I ordered a veggie meal and it was very tasty! I loved both airports - Schipol and Charles du Gaulle - it made me sad that there are so few American airports that even compare in terms of food choices, shops, and a nice design (Chicago and Denver perhaps, and that's it)
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/21/13
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Paris to Spain
I'm in the planning stages for our next trip to Europe. After 3 days in Paris, we plan on heading to Spain. No particular place in mind, but are planning on about 7-10 days there before going to Italy. Any suggestions? How about flying to Madrid or Barcelona? Does a train go to either of those cities from France?
Gregory
Spokane, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
:) :) :)
Brenda
Carterville, Illinois United States 5/21/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
In my frequent experience with Air France, they will keep loading you with plenty of complimentary champagne and other alcoholic beverages if you ask.
Take advantage of their generosity and you won't remember if the service was good or bad.
As a matter of fact sometimes I couldn't even remember why I was on a plane to Paris in the first place.
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Driving out of Paris
I rented a car in Paris for a drive down to Nice. I highly recommend renting a car with a GPS. It was definitely a lifesaver for us.
Gregory
Spokane, WA USA 5/21/13
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bus travel in Turkey
I am considering an overnight bus from Cappodocia to Fetheye, listed as 13 hours. Is this +/- 1 hour, or possible +/- 3 hours? I am concerned the 9:00 scheduled arrival is tight with a 10:30 embarkment with blue cruise.
Janet
Pitt Meadows, BC Canada 5/21/13
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RE: traveling to orvieto
thank you so much for the information. Really appreciate the help!
Terri
Terri
Santa Rosa 5/21/13
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RE: Eiffel Tower reservations
You can keep trying, especially right away on the day your dates go on sale and you'll probably be able to get tickets. Myself, I wouldn't sweat it. If you go over to the tower and get in line at 6:30 you will most likely be up in plenty of time for an 8:00 sunset. I went on an August evening and only stood in line about 25-30 mins. Reserved time tickets are nice but not necessary.
Nancy
Corvallis, OR USA 5/21/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
I may have "overspoken" when I said "great" service. However, I have been told that "non-US flagged ships" have much better service that those from here.
Emirates was super, but then, I think maybe it is in a class above these others.
I was just hoping for friendly, helpful people and descent economy space. I will only be on there for 8 hours (hopefully) and am pretty flexible to live with anything. Was just hoping someone would tell me "how great" their KLM or AirFrance experience was. Wishful thinking :)
Brenda
Carterville, Illinois United States 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
Shawn, the reason Paris "fashion" topics go off the rails is because there are those that still believe that Paris holds a certain cachet, not known anywhere else in the world, and it doesn't.
No, actually, it's not the reason at all. I probably speak for more than just myself that my dress code attitudes applies to all of Europe, not just Paris. The OP question just happened to be about Paris.
Shawn - your type of question comes up all the time and it almost always results in this kind of no-win bickering between those who like to dress nicer and those than don't. You can click to disengage the email notifications for each new post, since it's unlikely to end anytime soon. Sorry...
Douglas
Oak Park, Illinois 5/21/13
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RE: traveling to orvieto
There are trains to Orvieto that depart Roma Termini at 7:12pm (16 euro) and 7:35pm (7.50 euro) on Saturdays. Your flight arrives too late to make the 5:10pm train, and there's a 2-hour gap between trains. You can check schedules at www.trenitalia.com. Appears June 22 schedules aren't yet posted, so use a Saturday thru June 8 to check schedules. Use a date within a week to see prices.
Frank
Wilmington, DE 5/21/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
Tex's idea makes as much sense as mine.
My only quibble would be the notion of planning. This ain't the kind of trip you plan. What you do is put your head down and flat-out charge. Full steam the whole way. Slam on the brakes when you see something. Get right back at it. Check for visas, grab a clean pair of socks, load the money gun and go until you're shooting blanks.
Lurkers take note: good ole Craig has broken the code on how you're supposed to travel.
Ed
Pensacola 5/21/13
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RE: Specific Schengen Q
I agree that it would be less complicated if you had a student visa so you wouldn't have to worry about number of days. But, as it is, if your dates are accurate you will start a new 180 days on June 29th but only spend a total of 89 days up until Dec 15th when you leave so you should have no problem.
Nancy
Corvallis, OR USA 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
Thanks again Ken! We will be staying at Hotel Staubbach, per Rick's advice. I chose Lauterbrunnen for that reason - it appeared to be a hub. And, although, Murren was very tempting we will have a rental car and I preferred a place with parking.
I'm contemplating getting the Flex Pass. Unfortunately, due to the weather concerns, I'm not sure how many trains/funiculars/gondolas we will use. It appears to pay for itself rather quickly so I'll probably get the 3 or 4 day pass.
Regarding routes to reach the Schilthorn from Lauterbrunnen - sure, I'll love any advise you could give. I usually pride myself on not asking travel questions that one can look up on their own but if you've got suggestions, I'll take them! Plus, I'm running out of time ;)
christie
pleasanton 5/21/13
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RE: traveling to orvieto
Terri,
YES, there are absolutely trains after 16:30. You can check all the details on the Trenitalia website.
After arrival at FCO, the easiest transportation is the Leonardo Express (train) from the airport to Roma Termini. There are frequent departures and the trip is about 30 minutes. Last time I used the train, the fare was 14€ PP (slightly higher if purchased at a ticket office). DON'T forget to validate your ticket prior to boarding the train or you'll get nicked with a hefty fine!
If you can make it there in time, you can use a departure from FCO at 17:08, arriving Orvieto at 19:15 (one change at Roma Termini, current fare indicated at 30€ PP). There are cheaper fares on those trains which change at Roma Tiburtina, but I'd suggest taking the first one you can connect with as you'll be tired and jet lagged.
Are you going to be staying in Orvieto? From the station, it's easy to get up to the town using the Funicolare.
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Arriving at Orly -Traveling on to Bayeux
Five-thirty train.
Taxi should make it in about forty-five minutes and will be almost door to door.
Metro/bus/rer/val will have at least three changes and take almost an hour.
Getting out the door at Orly, finding the taxi rank, getting in the door at St Lazare, and finding the platform is bound to take more than an hour.
Ed
Pensacola 5/21/13
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agritourismo near Venice
We are looking for an agriturismo within an hour of Venice for the first week of October. does anyone have any recommendations?
Thank you!
Mina
Toronto, Ontario Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Easy Beach Excursion From Rome
Ostia Lido (beach) is just a couple of stops past the Ostia Antica stop - same train. There are maps in each train car showing the stops. Best part is that you can get there for just one 1.50 euro Metro ticket each way or using an all-day Metro pass. Take the Metro to Ostiense and change to the train (short walk). Rick's Italy guidebook has Getting There instructions on page 892 that will help you. If you plan to stop off and visit Ostia Antica, then the all-day Metro pass is the way to go. You'll break even on the trip to Ostia Antica and the beach, and the rest of your public transit that day will be "free."
Frank
Wilmington, DE 5/21/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
In a couple of flights with each, booking through Delta, I have seen little difference between KLM and Air France, or Delta, for that matter. Keep your expectations low, and you will never be disappointed. :)
Roy
Auburn, AL 5/21/13
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RE: Quick Paris visit - airport transportation advice, please!
KN,
With a group of five tired and jet lagged people and hauling luggage, two options to consider:
> Taxi - according to the Clarion Hotel: "From Roissy CDG airport: approximately a 30 minute journey which costs € 40."
> Shuttle - Pre book a Shuttle trip. This might be a better option as not all Taxi's will be able to accommodate five with luggage. I'd have to check the Guidebook for listings of "recommended" Shuttle services. If you do a Google search of "Paris Airport Shuttles", you'll get LOTS of suggestions.
For your trip to Orly, this chart provides a good description of your options:
www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/ADP/en-GB/Passagers/Access-maps-car-parks/Paris-orly/Access/public-transport/
Two options that I'd consider for that trip:
> RER "B" to Antony Orlyval and then the Orlyval light train to the airport.
> Shuttle - ask your hotel to book a Shuttle for you at least one day before you'll be travelling. That would probably be the easiest option for a group of seven.
You might also find it helpful to have a look at the excellent Paris By Train website.
Bon Voyage!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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traveling to orvieto
Hi - I arriving at FCO airport on Saturday, June 22 at 4:10 and plan to travel to Orvieto that night to meet my daughter. Are there any trains that run later than 4:30. Any other suggestions on how to get there. Please advise
Terri
Santa Rosa 5/21/13
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RE: Global pass Italy
I've pasted your most current itinerary from your link; is this correct?
"I'm mostly troubled about booking trains in Italy. Thus far, using Bahn, the first reservation we are going to need is a night train from Budapest to Venice. Also looks like we have to cut our wish list, Croatia is out.
We've also dropped Prague from our wish list circle( Munich, Vienna, Prague, Budapest, Zagreb, Croatia's coast, Florence, Cinque Terre, Lake Como area,and Switzerland around Chur or St Moritz).
The first leg looks workable, Munich airport to Salzburg for three nights, a short side trip overnight into the high mtns, then on to Vienna for two nights before departing to Budapest for three nights. Budapest to Venice by night train.
Now, can we manage to get from Venice to Florence to the coast, either Cinque Terre or Portofino, then up to Milan and lake Como into Switzerland without having reservations on Italian trains, it really is confusing for this novice."
I think there are two of you? Munich Airport to Salzburg could cost you 26€ for two (and up to five) people -(called a Bayern Ticket). Someone else will have to tell you where at the airport to buy this. This is for local trains only. It's about 1/2 price of regular fare.
Eileen
Texan in CA 5/21/13
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RE: 2 Days in Nuremberg
According to the German Rail site (rail.de) the last train connection to Nberg is at 10:06pm.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/21/13
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RE: Hotels in Cortona
Thank you all. We have booked a room at Hotel Italia-location, price and availability as well as your recommendations were all what we needed to help with our choice!
Lisa
Marshville 5/21/13
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RE: Easyjet Carryon Luggage
The confusion always seems to come from 'gatecheck' which happens up where they check your boarding pass. What happens once you're on the plane might not even have a name, but it's a whole new game that adds no cost.
Gatechecked stuff usually winds up on the carousel, cabin-nabbed usually winds up by the door as you get off.
I was watching Easyjet at the next gate the other day at Manchester. If something didn't fit in the cage by even a protruding wheel, it failed the test. If there was a scale, I didn't see it.
KLM was doing the same thing. So was Ryan.
Ed
Pensacola 5/21/13
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RE: 2 Days in Nuremberg
If I were to do Rothenburg O.D.T. on Day 2 would I be able to make it back to Nuremberg after the Night Watchman tour?
Aaron
Quinlan, Texas United States 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
christie,
If you've ever seen the movie On Her Majesty's Secret Service, you'll recognize the Schilthorn right away. It was on cable the other day and I quite enjoyed watching it as I made another visit to the Schilthorn last September.
There are two routes you can take to reach the Schilthorn from Lauterbrunnen. If you need further details, post another note. You might consider getting one of the Swiss Passes, in order to reduce the expensive cost of transportation in that area. Getting around in that area is VERY easy, especially from Lauterbrunnen since it's a "hub". Where are you staying there?
Cheers!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: 2 Days in Nuremberg
There is enough to do in Nuremberg and fill two days. But Rothenburg is a wonderful and magical place, and worthy of a visit...so flip a coin. If it were me I would tour Nberg on day one, if you see most of the stuff that interests you, then make the day trip on day two. You can make up your mind at the last minute.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/21/13
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RE: Glasgow hotel convenient to Airport
What time is your flight? There's a great bus you can catch right on George Square that will take you to the airport. I've used it to catch a transatlantic flight and to catch a connecting flight to London. And it's a lot nicer place to spend your last night in Scotland than at the airport. : )
You can buy the ticket at the TI on George Square.
Pam
Pamela
New York City (formerly Madison), NY USA 5/21/13
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RE: London/Scotland Itinerary
It's easy to do some day trips from Inverness and it's nice to have a couple of nights in one place. There are places with live music which is nice and a variety of restaurants. That's the argument for Inverness. It's a long drive from St. Andrews to Inverness and you'll want to stop at places on the way. So, you really only have one full day out of Inverness. You can stay local and go to places like Culloden Field, Cawdor Castle, Fort George. Or take a boat ride on the Moray and look for dolphins. Or you can go down to Loch Ness and see Urqhart Castle or take a different boat ride. And of course, there is the Nessie stuff. : )
Or you do a day trip to the west. Drive to Ullapool and then go for a walk in the hills above the town. The views are spectacular of the Summer Isles and Loch Broome.
Or you could take a drive to the north and visit Dunrobin Castle, which has beautiful gardens and a bizarre museum in the garden. There's the ruin of a Broch a few miles up the road and you could stop off at Dornoch on the way back and see the cathedral or check out the famous golf course.
Or you go east and visit a distillery.
Let me know if you need more ideas.
Pam
Pamela
New York City (formerly Madison), NY USA 5/21/13
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RE: Glasgow hotel convenient to Airport
Time from the centre is about 30 minutes, maybe a bit more if in peak time.
Marco
Oxford, Oxon United Kingdom 5/21/13
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RE: best way to get from Santa Lucia train station
antoinette,
A four-wheel bag would likely be more of a problem than a two-wheel model, as the wheels are typically smaller and may not be designed for "tilting". The two-wheel bags usually have larger wheels and are designed to be easily wheeled when tilted, including on stairs (albeit with a loud clattering and banging and with the bag possibly jumping around like a Mexican jumping bean). Of course, the specific design of the bag you're using will be the deciding factor.
This is one of the reasons I much prefer a Backpack.
Good luck!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Global pass Italy
Please retread Sam's and Frank's posts. Without a railpass, you could buy an actual train ticket AND seat reservation for 9€ on some routes! Those are FAST TRAINS, advance-order, online, non-refundable tickets...but if you have an itineary mostly pinned down, you can save a ton of money by buying ahead. The best savings are realized 3 months in advance of travel.
Eileen
Texan in CA 5/21/13
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RE: Specific Schengen Q
It does get a little complicated. First, why are you not on a student visa that solves the problem? The schengen visa is a tourist vise program. Everytime you enter you start another 180 cycle which can be overlaping. You start a second on June 29 to late December. You cannot be more than 90 in any 180 day cycle.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Easyjet Carryon Luggage
easyJet do not "gate check" an item unless you actually turn up at the gate with baggage which is beyond their maximum size allowed, in which case they will almost certainly charge you at the highest rate, since you should have checked the item at the check-in counter.
When you board the plane, the cabin staff will see how full the overhead bins are, and will take some of the items off passengers and place them in the hold. You will not then have to pay. If your carry-on items are within the new lower size limits, then easyJet say you will definitely be able to keep them with you, so valuables like cameras and drugs shoud be placed in a smaller bag. If they are between the lower and upper size limits, then they may be placed in the hold if there is insufficient space for everyone's carry-on bags.
These are single-aisle planes flying short journeys, often from small airports with limited baggage handling facilities. They have short turn-round times - usually about 40 minutes. Most of the other passengers will be Europeans on short trips. You can try to game the system to save money, but if you get it wrong it could cost a lot of money.
If you think the system is crazy, try having a discussion with any Europesn about the American rules for firearms and alcohol sales.
Bob
Bristol UK 5/21/13
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RE: charging the rental car
Exactly.
Ed
Pensacola 5/21/13
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RE: Gemut ?
I've used them for several several trips and will do so again in the future. Very good service, good prices, no complaints. Worry about other things.
David
Seattle, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Flying in September, when to book my flight?
From what I've seen the last few years...Great Job! Good price.
So...do you really feel like you're going now? ;-)
Eileen
Texan in CA 5/21/13
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RE: Easyjet Carryon Luggage
Ken- effective July 2, they have a new policy. If your carryon is a certain size (see above for dimensions) it is GUARANTEED to go onboard in the cabin. If it is the right size for carry on (roughly the size of the average rolling bag) then it goes into the hold if there is not sufficient room for it in the cabin. My understanding from another poster is that there is no charge for this if you meet the carryon requirements (size and only the ONE!).
I hope that helps clarify the policy for you. They don't spell out each and every thing that I needed to understand, which is why I turned to the awesome RS board. Thanks all!
Laura
Bellevue, WA 5/21/13
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Specific Schengen Q
I have been scouring the internet and many forums on the Graffiti wall, but I cannot find an answer to fit my Schengen predicament.
Here's the scenario.
I arrived in Frankfurt on April 1, 2013.
I will leave for the UK on June 14, 2013.
(That puts me at 75 days)
I will reenter the Schengen zone on June 29, 2013
I return to the US on July 3, 2013
(That puts me at 80 days)
That was all for study abroad. I am returning to study abroad in Iceland for fall quarter as well.
I would arrive Sept. 23, 2013
I would return to the US on December 15, 2013
(82 days)
My first 180 days end on September 28, 2013 and I would have spent 86 days in the Schengen zone (from April 1-Sept 28th).
My question basically is, since within no 180 day window I will be overstaying my 90 days, can I return without a Visa? Will my 180 day window swap over?
That is pretty confusing. Let me know if you need clarification!
Thanks!!
Stacie
Renton, WA United States 5/21/13
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Arriving at Orly -Traveling on to Bayeux
My husband and I are arriving at Orly on a Wednesday at 1:15. We plan to spend a few days in Bayeux. We have decided not to drive so we plan to take the train from Gare St. Lazare to Bayeux. What is the best way for us to get from Orly to St Lazare? We will each have a large bag and a carryon so we thought that we should take a taxi to St Lazare. We are not sure how long it will take to get to Lazare. After we arrive at Orly at 1:15 p.m. and pick up our checked bags, would it be possible for us to be on the 3:15 train? We figure that this is probably impossible and that we should book the next train at 5:30. Does this seem right? Do you have any suggestions?
Carol
Huntsville, TX 5/21/13
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RE: Flying in September, when to book my flight?
Booked through Sky Scanner via Vayama and found a flight to Brussels for 938.38.
Aaron
Quinlan, Texas United States 5/21/13
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RE: When to visit the Vatican
It is a dice roll. No way to know for sure but you might check with a TI to see if anything special is being scheduled on certain days. With the new pope a lot of special activity is going on. We were there last Saturday along with an estimated 300,000 or few more and could not get anywhere close. Will catch it next time.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Relaxing Greek Island
I have been to Ikaria and it's beautiful. We stayed near Armenistas at a beautiful hotel on the beach, very inexpensive. Absolutely untouristy, golden sand beach, several tavernas to choose from. We used ferries and taxis to get around but did also rent a car for one day ... easy to do ... they brought it to the hotel and picked it up when we were done. There are flights from Ikaria to Athens in addition to the ferries. I can dig up the hotel info if you're interested; it was around 40 euros, clean, balcony, private bath, wonderful owners. I'm not sure if ferries run daily to Ikaria from Samos, so you would want to time this carefully.
Another good choice would be Lesvos. You can ferry directly from Ayvalik, Turkey to Lesvos every day. We found a hotel that we love and are visiting for the fourth time this September following 3 weeks in Turkey. It's called Hotel Votsala, a short taxi ride from Mytilene (where the ferries dock). It's on a private beach (albeit pebbly), a couple of tavernas a short stroll down the beach, classical music playing while you eat breakfast under the olive trees, free water toys. Check out Trip Advisor reviews. About 60% of guests are return visitors. Lesvos is the 3rd largest Greek island but gets few visitors because it's out of the way. Lots to see on the island. We usually rent a car for an occasional day or two; again, they deliver it right to the hotel. But buses are available, and the hotel also takes guests on optional excursions (hikes, boat trips, once we went to Pergamon in Turkey). Simple rooms, around 60 euros, I think. The most wonderful hosts we've ever met. From Lesvos, you can take a long ferry back to Athens or a one-hour flight (we always fly).
Charlene
Centennial, CO US 5/21/13
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RE: train travel
You put large piece in the bins generally near the entrance to the car. For all practical purposes, you never need to make a reservation more than five minutes, maybe ten minutes ahead. Occasionally because of special events (soccer matches) second class on a particular train could sell but that is rare. First class never sells outs. Trenitalia.com takes US credit cards on line. Trains are frequent to most major areas so if one train is full then 30 mins or an hour late will be fine. The only reason to purchase in advance is to take advantage of any discounts fares that might be available.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Cruise Excursion Provence
Heather, For a one day excursion on what will probably be a very hot day, I'd do number 1 or 2. I have been to all the places offered.
Arles has interesting Roman ruins and interesting museums and most people find St. Remy charming. Arles may be pretty hot.
Roussillon (the town, not the region) is a very unusual place. It can be cool walking there, as some of the sights have tree shade. The soil is sandy, so wear shoes for walking outside. Gordes is a what's called a perched hill town, very traditional style and charming.
If you want more information, you can send me a private message.
Bets
Bloomington 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
Thank you all so much for your wonderful advice! It is greatly appreciated. I think we'll probably scrap the Matterhorn. Since we are staying in Lens for 2 nights would it be worth it to still go to Zermatt even if the weather is cloudy? I was there when I was 11 but all I really remember - besides the gorgeous views and taking the cable car - is that my opa's shoelace broke and everyone thought it was the funniest thing in the world. We were with family from Cernier who I have unfortunately lost touch with.
As for Jungfroujoch - perhaps we'll try depending on the weather. We will be in Lauterbrunnen for 3 nights so hopefully an opportunity will arise. And Ken, thanks for the Schilthorn recommendation - I think we'll give that a try.
Regards,
Christie
christie
pleasanton 5/21/13
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RE: Train tickets from Prague to Vienna
In early May we travelled by bus from Vienna to Prague. Travel time was less and so was price, 290 Kc each. Booked at eurolines.cz and had tickets in hand before leaving US. Downside is prepaid and no changes.
Bob
East Peoria, Illinois 5/21/13
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RE: Paris tours
We have used Paris Vision Tours for several excursions and have not been disappointed.
Mike
Hamilton, NJ USA 5/21/13
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2 Days in Nuremberg
I will be in Nuremberg for two days. Should I do both full days in Nuremberg or do one in Nuremberg and one in Rothenburg ob der Tauber?
Aaron
Quinlan, Texas United States 5/21/13
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RE: train travel
Go here and read this: http://www.roninrome.com/transportation/train-travel-italy
Michael
Seattle, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Athens to Dubronik
If you have a couple of days to spare for this trip, you can make an adventure of it.
You can find relatively cheap airfare from Athens to Tirana, Albania. You can find buses from Budva, Montenegro to Dubrovnik. So the missing piece is the how to get from Tirana to Budva. This would be a good question on the Thorn Tree forum.
We made this trip in the opposite direction (Dubrovnik>Athens) a few years ago. We bused to Budva and found a tour company offering a day trip to Tirana. So we signed up, had a nice tour of Albania on our way to Tirana, and just got off the bus in Tirana (skipped the return to Budva).
It took about 3 days: most of a day for the bus to Budva; most of a day for the bus to Tirana; and then part of the next day for the short flight to Athens.
Charlene
Centennial, CO US 5/21/13
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RE: charging the rental car
The hold will happen whether you purchase the insurance or not. The hold is only placed on the credit limit of your card, you will not be "charged" anything other than the standard rental fees.
It's more of an issue if you use a debit card, as the hold will be placed on the funds in your checking account as debit cards don't have credit limits.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/21/13
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RE: St. Petersburg
Dorothy - we ate at Palkin 2 weeks ago - it was absolutely FABULOUS!!! They had mixed up our reservations so our group of 12 ended up in the wine cellar! Amazing!!! And be sure to have ice cream for dessert!! Talk about dinner theatre!!! And yes, the borsht was wonderful!
Nancy
London UK 5/21/13
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RE: Global pass Italy
Thank you,
So am I correct in understanding that the Global Eurail pass is good on the fast trains in Italy if you pay the 10 Euro reservation fee and that there is no other charge, supplement?
sundance
boone 5/21/13
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train travel
if you are traveling by train to differene cities in italyon high speed trains, where would you put a large suitcase if it does not fit in overhead storage area-also do you need to make a reservation in advance of train travel for first classif so how far in advance and how-on line they won't take us credit cards
terry
bellmawr 5/21/13
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London/Scotland Itinerary
Opinions on this welcome! June 8 through the 14th are pretty much set. But I am still not convinced that we should stay 2 nights in Inverness. 17th we need to stay in Glasgow as we leave the next morning for home.
June overnight dates:
8,9,10,11 - London
12,13 - Edinburgh
14 - St Andrews
15, 16 - Inverness
17 - Glasgow
Stacey
Littleton, Co 5/21/13
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RE: rialto market open in the afternoon
It is pretty much done by the early afternoon. Go in the morning.
Mike
Hamilton, NJ USA 5/21/13
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RE: April in Paris - A Trip Report
Scott,
Thanks for the info on your RAW software. I tend to use DXO most of the time, but may take a closer look at Lightroom. I'm on a Pension so no way I can afford CS-6.
Hopefully I'll get some good shots this year. I'll have to try tweaking the settings in DXO to see if I can increase the contrast and saturation when I do the RAW conversion.
Cheers!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Burgundy
Third vote for staying in Beaune. Les Jardins de Lois is an excellent choice for a place to stay-top rated on TripAdvisor. Off-street parking yet a 5-minute walk to centre ville. Great villages to explore by car within minutes.
Mike
Columbia, MO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
With the time and budget you have, you can do the circle of the Mediterranean. I suggest a counter clockwise route starting in Morocco. Spring is a good time to visit N Africa before the temperature climbs. Tunisia and Egypt should be on your list as well.
I would plan an itinerary which includes all the spots you want to see and have a plan B for places that may have to be cut because of risk at the time. A great thing about solo travel is the ability to change plans on the spur of a moment. Have a general itinerary, but give yourself flexibility to take side trips or stay longer in places than originally planned.
This sounds like a fun trip to plan.
Tex
Denton 5/21/13
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RE: best way to get from Santa Lucia train station
You'll have to tilt it to get it on two wheels. As was mentioned earlier, it would be a waste to take a vaporetto. You'll waste time trying to get on, wait for everyone to get off, and then repeat the process when it gets to the next stop.
Gabriel
Pico Rivera, CA 5/21/13
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RE: Easyjet Carryon Luggage
Laura,
"Sounds like I will be able to gate check free if I meet the baggage size requirements for the rolling bag size"
Could you clarify your terminology for "gate check"? Are you referring to your carry-on luggage, or luggage that will be placed in the hold?
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
christie,
As the others have mentioned, the Matterhorn may not be a good choice at this time of year, and it will also take a bit of time to get there from the Berner Oberland. I haven't been to Gornergrat yet, so don't have any comments to offer on that. I'd suggest checking the weekly weather report when you arrive in that area, in case there's a "window of opportunity".
The Jungfraujoch is always a bit of a gamble. When I was there in mid-September last year, the weather was great in the valley and in Kleine Scheidegg, but when I got to the top there was a severe blizzard with gale force winds, so I wasn't able to venture outside. The following day was worse, with train service between Wengen and Kleine Scheidegg suspended due to high winds.
However, as the others said there's lots to do inside the mountain including the Ice Palace, restaurants, shops and other displays. It's such a unique place to see, it's well worth the trip, although it's not cheap! The top of the Sphinx Observatory is at about 12,000 feet, so you'll probably find that you're all moving a bit more "slowly" than at lower altitudes.
You could also consider a trip to Mürren and the Schilthorn and Piz Gloria. You can have a fine hot meal in the revolving restaurant at 10,000 feet, while the vista of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau pass by the windows. You could also have a "Martini shaken not stirred" in the James Bond Bar (one floor down from the restaurant).
Switzerland is expensive, but the scenery is incredible!
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: The Larmer Tree Festival- Tollard Royal Wiltshire
Maggie,
Thank you for your prompt reply, I truly appreciate the information. My journey has already became easier & travel times shorter ,I definitely would've been riding the trains my entire stay. lol
Once again, Thank you!
Nellie
Nellie
New Orleans, Louisiana USA 5/21/13
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RE: Glasgow hotel convenient to Airport
There is a Holiday Inn across the street from the terminal.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/21/13
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RE: best way to get from Santa Lucia train station
So..a four wheel suitcase would not work?
antoinette
cold spring 5/21/13
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Glasgow hotel convenient to Airport
We are looking for a hotel that would be easy to get to the airport from in the morning. Is it worth staying in the city if its just one night? Or best to stay close to the airport? Glasgow is basically just an overnight stop before we fly home after a 10 day trip. Thanks!
Stacey
Stacey
Littleton, Co 5/21/13
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RE: best way to get from Santa Lucia train station
antoinette,
That's a very short distance, so a Vaporetto probably wouldn't be the best option.
I assume you're referring to the Ponte della Costituzione bridge? It's not terribly steep but there are lots of steps. If you're dragging a wheelie bag, it may be a bit of work but not unmanageable.
Happy travels!
Ken
Vernon Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Easy Beach Excursion From Rome
You will not see any beach at Ostia Antica. It was there a 1000 years ago but now just a muddy river delta. OA is worth a half day. Similar in limited ways to Pompeii since it was buried by the mud of the river. The big advantage over Pompeii is trees and shade. If you want the beach stay on the train till the next stop, Lido, which is where a lot of locals go.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Bayeaux v. Caen v. Ouistreham
B&Bs in Bayeux are not that expensive and include a great french breakfast. Try through Booking.com.
Steven
Kingsburg, California USA 5/21/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
Brenda, unless you are flying First or Business Class you should not "look forward to great service". I am usually quite pleased with Air France but that may be because my expectations for any airline are quite low nowadays.
Norma
Montreal, Quebec Canada 5/21/13
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RE: charging the rental car
Sorry, more explanation needed. We have read and heard that if you do not carry the insurance offered by the rental company and choose to rely on the insurance provided through the credit card company, that the rental company can put a large hold on your credit card. This would tie up large amount of available credit that you may need.
Cynthia
USA 5/21/13
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RE: kd rhine cruise
sam, are there also hoards of buses at Bacharach. would it be better if we took train from cologne to Koblenz or st goar, then cruise upstream to Bacharach, then train back to cologne
ron
blackwood, nj 5/21/13
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RE: Traveling with a toddler
Copenhagen has all of the things you mention, and is very friendly AND family-friendly. Also not as dreadfully HOT as some other places in Europe during late June. And not quite as crowded, either!
Kira
Seattle, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: charging the rental car
There's several reasons not to go by FTF alone. But,the difference between them probably isn't one percent. Figure twenty-five bucks a day? Two bits daily shouldn't be the decision maker.
Once more. Why the question?
Ed
Pensacola 5/21/13
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RE: inexpensive but safe hotels in florence
Thanks Janet! I've been emailing with Thea at the hotel you suggested. Have found out June is not the time to travel cheaply haha. The place looks great and location looks even better. I think it will be great for the girls. Thanks so much to everyone for your advice. It's so nice to be able to turn to the experts!
Anne
Bartlesville, ok 5/21/13
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Austria Regional Pass
We are in our final planning (4 adults and 1 infant)of a Austrian train ride from Salzburg, through Zell am See, through Innsbruck and final destination for day is Fussen. We know we can use the Einfach Pass to get from Salzburg to Innsbruck and then to Scharnitz (on the German border), but after that we need help with best way to get to Fussen. The Bayern Pass was suggested, but I do not see it going from Scharnitz into Germany to get to Fussen on the Bayern Pass.
Joe
Austin, Texas USA 5/21/13
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RE: Air France and KLM
Be aware that KLM and Air France are the same company, they merged several years ago. YMMV, but I in my experience KLM (transatlantic)flight attendants are some of the rudest I have encountered. But keep in mind you are flying halfway across the planet in under 12 hours so grin and bear it;)
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
Forecasts seven days in advance for the alps are mostly useless because the weather changes so rapidly; so don't give up hope:) The Junfroujoch is a bit more weather-proof than other mountain top panoramas. Even with poor visibility there are other things you can do up there. There are exhibits inside the mountain top. There is a beautiful ice-gallery inside the glacier. In addition you can you can walk on top of the glacier where there are other activities like a zip-line and mini-luge run.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/21/13
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RE: charging the rental car
You should use the credit card with the lowest foreign transaction fees. I assume they both have adequate credit lines that they will not exceed their limits.
Sam
Green Bay 5/21/13
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RE: flight change in Amsterdam
It was a joke.
FYI, KLM/Air France are part of the consortium that own the high-speed train line between Brussels and Amsterdam. So whether one flies or trains it between Paris and Amsterdam they make money off of it.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/21/13
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Eiffel Tower reservations
I'm trying to make reservations for the Eiffel Tower at 7pm to see sunset at 8pm, but the site won't let me choose anything between 5:30 and 8pm. (I'm trying for September, which isn't on sale yet, but it's the same for sooner months.) Anyone else experience this, or is it maybe a glitch on my Mac?
Tisa
Lebanon, PA United States 5/21/13
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RE: kd rhine cruise
Since it is faster going downstream than up, most people ride the train up river from Cologne and board upstream. Bingen is a good spot to board. St Goar is a good spot as is Boppard to get off. On the other hand (I am an Economist) that is exactly what everybody else will be doing. Hoards of tour bus groups will board at Rudesheim and get off at St Goar to go to Rheinfels Castle. So there is an advantage to taking the slow way.
Sam
Green Bay 5/21/13
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RE: The Larmer Tree Festival- Tollard Royal Wiltshire
Nellie, I used to work at a craft show at Larmer Tree every year and it's lovely there but it really is a bit of a trek to get to.
If you fly to Paris, go from Southampton as Kevin suggests- the flight goes to Orly airport, though, not Charles de Gaulle.
Also check out Bournemouth airport. Lots of flights from there in the summer months.
Maggie
Boscombe, Dorset UK 5/21/13
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RE: Driving out of Paris
It is easy to drive out of Gare du Nord. You take one boulevard that will soon lead to the Periferique ring highway, from there you can reach any other highway leaving from Paris.
Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 5/21/13
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RE: Traveling with babies
Chani, thanks for the shout out! And Carol, you are not crazy dreamers. We just returned from a month in Europe with our 8-9 month old, and our itinerary included Paris and the south of France. We rented apartments everywhere. Please feel free to send me a message and I can share links and other lessons learned, as I unfortunately cannot do so directly on this post.
Angela
Angela
Littleton, Colorado United States 5/21/13
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RE: Itinerary feedback - Euro trip for group of 10
9 minutes is ample time to change trains at Interlaken. The trains are times dike clockwork (it is Switzerland, after all) and generally you just stop off the one coming from Grindelwald and then onto the one heading to Spiez (where you will change for the train to Milan).
Another place in Switzerland you might consider for your group of skiers and non-skiers would be Luzern and Engleberg. You could base in Luzern and the skiers and outdoor adventur enthusiasts could take the train 45 minutes to Engleberg, at the base of Mt. Titlis, or you could all stay in Engleberg and the non-skiers could daytrip to Luzern, Bern, or other areas. Activities on Titlis include, in addition to fantastic skiing and snowboarding, winter walking, sledging, and snowshoeing. for the off-piste skiers, there is a long glacier run-something like 10 km.
http://www.titlis.ch/en/titlis/titlis_info/winter_activities
Luzern is a small city with lots of charm and cultural activities. It would be a slightly shorter trip to Rome from here than from Grindelwald. If you wish to avoid lots of train changes, there is one direct train from Luzern to Milano Centrale a day, with an early departure (7:77 am). this gets you to Milan before noon, so you could be in Rome by mid-afternoon. If that train is too early, there are lots more with a single change at Arth-Goldau. So you would have either 1 or 2 changes on the way to Rome, instead of 4.
Lola
Seattle, WA 5/21/13
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RE: Driving out of Paris
Do it from Nord.
You'll be on the peripherique in five minutes (three turns). If you go out to the airport, you're going to pass through the same intersection after driving for a half hour.
This assumes you're making the Normandy trek. Something else might require a rethink.
Ed
Pensacola 5/21/13
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RE: Easyjet Carryon Luggage
Laura, just flew Easyjet about a month ago and they were very strict about 1 carry on item per person. They actually asked me to put my purse into my tote bag so I would only carry 1 item! Pretty silly, meanwhile other people were bringing in much bigger carry ons but I guess that's the rule. So as long as your Ikea bag fits the size limit for carry on and as long it's your only one, it should be fine.
Claudette
huntington beach, ca usa 5/21/13
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RE: St. Petersburg
The borscht really is yummy.
Denise
San Antonio, TX 5/21/13
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Gemut ?
. Has anyone used Gemut to rent a car in Europe? (http://www.gemut.com/) I've received a quote from them and I'm considering using them.
Cynthia
USA 5/21/13
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RE: charging the rental car
Why?
Ed
Pensacola 5/21/13
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RE: When to visit the Vatican
Doesn't matter whether you have a reservation or not in regards to the crowds inside, it will be crowded inside, accept that and make the best of it.
I would make a reservation if I could.. waiting in hours to get in, then dealing with crowds can be a double whammy of overload,, and the heat..
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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charging the rental car
I am renting a car in Paris. Should I charge the rental car to one credit card and use another credit card for the rest of my expenses while I travel?
Cynthia
USA 5/21/13
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Driving out of Paris
Has anyone picked up a rental car from the Paris Nord train station? I am a "first time Europe driver" and I was wondering how much city traffic I would be facing if I picked up a rental car at Nord train station at 7 pm and drove out of the city. My other option would be to take the train up to the airport in the evening and pick the car up at the airport.
Cynthia
USA 5/21/13
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RE: flight change in Amsterdam
Michael, there are even a couple turboprop Schiphol-Zaventem (Bruxelles) flights. They are useful for people making multiple connections from/to transcontinental flights.
However, KLM/Air France sell some Thalys tickets as if they were airplane trips. They even have a IATA cod for Gare du Nord and a shadow "ariline" code for Thalys operating in "code-share" with AirFrance
Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 5/21/13
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When to visit the Vatican
Hello,
We will be in Rome (in June) on a Friday (arriving 9AM), Saturday, and half of Sunday (leaving around noon).
Ideally we'd go to the Vatican on Saturday (I'd like to start with the Colosseum and Forum on Friday), but Saturday is a day Rick mentions it is especially busy.
My question, if I pay for a reservation, will that alleviate the wait, or will it still be super packed inside (more so than usual) and a longer-than-normal security line?
Would you go Friday (don't like the idea of starting my visit to ROME with the Vatican - just me being silly) or Saturday like I want to? I'm thinking Sunday would be too tight, right?
Thank you!
Carolyn
Toronto, ON Canada 5/21/13
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RE: best way to get from Santa Lucia train station
Well, I should also mention that I'm a fairly strong guy too. I'm not sure what your physical aptitude is.
Gabriel
Pico Rivera, CA 5/21/13
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RE: Itinerary feedback - Euro trip for group of 10
Catherine, you are selling your talent WAY too cheap! Even @ $3K, your time will work out to be under $10.00 per hour.
Bob
Gettysburg, PA 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
Unfortunately, you're completely at the mercy of the weather in the Alps, and May generally is not a great month. Cloud cover and rain are a bad combination at high altitude. You can't see anything, and the rain and wind attack you with a different sort of ferocity that you would experience from the same storm at a lower elevation. So yes, I echo Pat's advice, don't bother.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/21/13
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Air France and KLM
My only previous international flights have been on United and Emirates.
My United trip overseas was horrid. The attendants were extremely rude and totally unhelpful. We were traveling with children age 4, 1 1/2, and 5 months and flight attendants were totally useless. They sat in the back of the plane and griped about their union troubles. the trip back to the US on United was very pleasant. I guess it just depends on the people working your flight.
Emirates was fantastic with tremendous amounts of room even in economy and a lot better service than United. The meals were also outstanding.
This time I will be flying Air France from Chicago to Paris and
KLM from Paris to Chicago.
Any comments on differences I should expect. I am looking forward to great service, but don't want to set my expectations too high.
Brenda
Carterville, Illinois United States 5/21/13
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RE: Croatia 10 day trip
Oops - only meant to list Zadar once. And instead of Rijeka I should have said Rovinj.
Mike
Seattle, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: London attractions - family tickets vs. 2-for-1 pass
I have looked into this extensively (and have the spreadsheet to prove it!), in general the cut off for a youth or child "concessions" is 5-15 or 5<15. Study the 2-1 pass opportunity carefully...
John
Tampa, FL USA 5/21/13
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RE: St. Petersburg
If dining in St. Petersburg, this is a must (and I rarely use the word "must" associated with travel): borscht! Dear God, is it delicious in Russia!
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/21/13
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RE: flight change in Amsterdam
I didn't know flights between Paris and Schipol Amsterdam still existed:) Most people take the high-speed Thalys train between Paris and Amsterdam, as it's faster.
In any event one hour is enough time for the connection. You'll have to pass through an immigration checkpoint at AMS before you reach your gate. There is usually an express lane open for people with tight connections. There will be a monitor overhead showing which flight qualify. At Schipol the security check for transatlantic flights is done at the gate instead of a centralized area. So as long as make it to the gate before they close the doors on the plane you're good.
Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 5/21/13
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tirol, salzburg, and eagles net
driving from munich Is it doable in a day round trip to stop and have meaningful time in all 3 places.
ron
blackwood, nj 5/21/13
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RE: flight change in Amsterdam
With the usual comment - if everything is on time. You should be behind security so it is just a gate switch.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Global pass Italy
The reservation fee applies to each leg that requires a reservation. All trains in Italy EXCEPT regional trains require a reservations
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Global pass Italy
I'd say you need to rethink the Global Rail pass.
Looks like your are going to pay $2000 for the 2 of you.
As you know, you need to pay a 10 euro res fee on the fast Italian trains. You can buy most of these in advance for 9 to 19 euro with the res fee included.
Italian regional trains are cheap. 12 euro and less for most of your Italian nonexpress itinerary. Eastern Europe trains are all very reasonable on a pay as you go basis.
Sam
Green Bay 5/21/13
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RE: Transportation from Santorini to Mykonos
Have you considered flying, if budget is not major consideration, depending on dates you can find flights for 90 euros on Olympic Air, I found some for later july and its only a 40 or so minute flight.. just a thought. I have taken a few ferries and they are not super fun.. but they are cheap usually. Prices vary by departure times and dates so a lot depends on when your trip is..
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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flight change in Amsterdam
I will be in Paris in June. When I leave Paris, I will fly KLM to Amsterdam and then on to the US on KLM. My stop in Amsterdam is scheduled for exactly one hour.
If I am using KLM for both legs of my journey, will this be plenty of time to make my connection?
Brenda
Carterville, Illinois United States 5/21/13
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RE: Athens to Dubronik
But if you do go by land there is a lot to see on that route. If you cannot get a car then as the last poster mentioned bus is the way to go. I am not super familiar with Greece but Thessaloniki is a candidate, you wouldn't want to miss Bay of Kotor or Ohrid, and there are supposedly some nice spots in Albania as well. It would be an adventure but would take some time. I would second thorn tree for this, and also take a look at trip advisor forums as well. The latter is geared toward a less adventurous set but they have "location experts" that typically answer very quickly. So interspersed with all the "where can I find a McDonalds in Athens" tripadvisor kind of questions there are some really good threads mixed in.
Matthew
Kihei, HI United States 5/21/13
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RE: Kenmare/Killarney
We have stayed twice in Kenmare. It's easier to navigate than Killarney and puts you in a better position to visit both the Ring of Beara and the Ring of Kerry. Kenmare has lots of restaurants, music pubs, and shops but doesn't feel as touristy and crowded as Killarney.....Suggestions for how to use your time. Drive Kinsale to Kenmare, drive the north side of the Ring of Beara both ways (south side not as interesting IMHO), overnight in Kenmare. Next day, drive the south side of the Ring of Kerry, including the loop out to Portmagee. The Skellig Island museum near there is excellent! Overnight again in Kenmare. Next day, drive to Killarney ( beautiful view road), stop briefly to see Muckrose ABBEY (evocative ruin), consider taking the jaunting car / return by boat trip through the lakes, then drive to Dingle....(We did all of this last April.)
Cynthia
Gig Harbor, Washington USA 5/21/13
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RE: Driving through east / central Europe to Greece
I think that the root of the challenge for you here is that you are trying to do two trips - Germany/Austria, plus Greece (in a relatively short time-frame, and with a family of 4, on a budget). Not saying it can't be done, but there are obviously some challenges - connecting the two hunks of your trip being one of them.
An open-jaw ticket was prohibitive for a family of four, and the best "budget" airfare RT between German and Greece I could find would end up costing nearly $2000 US for my family.
I'm wondering if you have that right. I'd suggest you take another, perhaps more careful look at open jaws flights. Many people mistakenly end up with crazy high prices for what they think are open jaw tickets, when what they've priced is something else (maybe two one-ways). And even if tickets from A>B, then back home from C>A cost more than flying A>B and returning from B>A (after a "side trip" B>C, C>B), you need to factor in *all* the costs of making your way from B>C and back. Those costs include transportation, lodging, food, etc. AND they also include the lost time. Often (usually?) the monetary costs are actually less if you go open jaws, but even if open jaws ends up costing a little more, it can "buy you" extra days on your trip. In your scenario, you are talking about a minimum of a week for the drive-through. Unless the area you're traversing is really of interest to you (more of interest than other places you could spend that week +), you need to balance the cost and time saved.
In your case, you would have a week or more of additional, usable time for your trip if you skipped the big drive. How much is that worth to you?
My guess is that you can find an open jaws option that costs less than $2K for the 4 of you. If it were me, I'd look again.
Hope that helps.
David
Seattle, WA USA 5/21/13
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kd rhine cruise
we are staying in cologne and will be taking a kd rhine cruise one way
and returning on the train.
I have been reading that the most scenic part Is from Bacharach to st goar.
should we take an early train from cologne to Bacharach, cruise downstream,
get off at st goar an take train back to cologne or do you have other
suggestions.
where should we spend time in between. st goar, Koblenz, or oberwiesel
ron
blackwood, nj 5/21/13
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RE: best way to get from Santa Lucia train station
Thank you. The picture of the bridge looks very long and with a steep incline, so I was concerned.
antoinette
cold spring 5/21/13
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RE: Umbrella and jacket needed?
In Rome right now and it's raining. We have our rain jackets. Vendors accosting everyone on every block to buy their umbrellas, which I can attest to are of the poorest quality.
Bring a rain jacket with a hood or a plastic poncho if you are space conscience ....but do bring some rain protection...you just never know. It is spring after all!
Umbrellas are ok, but I never bother, the rain jacket with hood is perfect for walking around.
Ellen
Centennial, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Time for connecting flight
If it was the last flight of the day then you would get paid overnight accommodation. And if the delay was over 3 hours then the EU261 compensation kicks in as well, if you are on an EU carrier.
What the OP hasn't mentioned is what airline is being used. Lufthansa actively expedites its connections and timetables them at the MCT; transfer between airlines might be a different matter.
Having said all this, anyone who isn't comfortable with the possibility can book the later connection to start with.
Marco
Oxford, Oxon United Kingdom 5/21/13
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Global pass Italy
The more I read about using the Global Eurail Pass in Italy, the more confused I become.
Is the Global pass good on Frecciarossa, Frecciargento & Frecciabianca trains?
I see a compulsory 10 Euro reservation fee. Is that all a Global pass holder pays on these fast trains?
Also last week I used an Internet timetable that supposedly only selected trains that the global pass covers all over Europe or I was mistaken. Can't find the site again, does it exist?
Plus any tips for using trains in Italy will be helpful.
Thanks in advance for your advice.
BTW: Wish list itinerary is here: https://www.ricksteves.com/graffiti/helpline/index.cfm/rurl/topic/104135/apt-rentals-in-advance.html
sundance
boone 5/21/13
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RE: Easy Beach Excursion From Rome
Have you picked up the RS Rome guide? Ostia Antica is near the beach and is a great alternative to Pompeii. Easy train ride too.
Gabriel
Pico Rivera, CA 5/21/13
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RE: best way to get from Santa Lucia train station
It's a very short walk. I did it with a huge piece of luggage and a carry on.
Gabriel
Pico Rivera, CA 5/21/13
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RE: wifi in italy
Works same as your phone. Turn off data roaming and just use wifi ( which is everywhere now in hotels for free.
Remember to ask when you check in for the password...I'm on my iPad right now in Rome....
Ellen
Centennial, CO USA 5/21/13
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best way to get from Santa Lucia train station
We will be arriving at the Santa Lucia train station in Venice and were wondering the best way to get to the Piazzale Roma. Is walking over the bridge too difficult with a suitcase? What number vaporetto would we use to get us there?
thank you
antoinette
cold spring 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
Christine, if its raining/snowing you will get no views,, so I wouldn't go up Gornergrat, and I wouldn't bother going up Matterhorne either.. sorry, weather does matter in these cases.
The views can be spectacular amazing, I loved my visits to Switzerland( Zermattt and Wengen etc ) but in bad weather it can really be socked in.. maybe wait and see
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Best way to save money on food?
Was just in Amsterdam last week and in Belgium this week eating on the cheap, but not depriving myself of all restaurants in favor of packets of instant oatmeal or smuggling food off of hotel breakfast buffets. Places like the new Marks & Spencer food hall or the zillion Albert Hjein grocery stores all stock ready made salads and meals to go. There are tons of ethnic eateries - kebabs and gyros, sushi, Asian noodle soups, Indian - all cheap. In addition to sightseeing, you can often get a decently priced meal. At Museum Vrolik I ate at the cafeteria where the students and faculty are fed. They also had a food court there with other options like sushi, coffee/baked goods, etc in addition to the cafeteria which sold hot meals, soups, and make your own salads. Very cheap (under 7 Euro for most). VanGogh Museum's cafe had a choice of 2 hot entrees with vegetables for 12 Euro plus a great live band and a DJ on Friday night when they were open late. FOAM, the photography museum, offers cheap dinners in their cafe on Thursday nights when they stay open late. Save up now for your museumkaart which is good for a year of unlimited visits and helps you skip the lines. You can use the card to pop in to grab dinner even if you have already seen the museum previously.
If your hotel does include breakfast, then take advantage of it by eating a hearty one there, but you don't need to swipe extra off the buffet. This morning I ate several croissants, eggs, bacon and had juice and coffee. It held me over until dinner. I spent 1 Euro on a liter of mineral water at Carrefour around the corner from my hotel (I could have drank tap water, but I wanted sparkling water). Went to a really swanky restaurant for dinner and had 2 Belgian ales, a steak with fries and my total was 25 Euro. Not bad for a whole day to eat at a really nice place like that.
Ceidleh
Boston, MA United States 5/21/13
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RE: Train tickets from Prague to Vienna
Thanks for your quick reply Ilja. Is there a big risk of the train being full and no tickets available if we just buy the tickets in Prague a couple days before the journey (we are spending 3-4 days in Prague)? Per the customer rep, the cheaper tickets are sold out on my first train of choice (even though I was booking around 60 days in advance). So I was a little concerned that we might not have seats left on the train.
thx!
Arun
Olympia, WA 5/21/13
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RE: Itinerary feedback - Euro trip for group of 10
Don't know if you've purchased your air tix already, but 10 people qualified for group treatment a few years when we went to Brazil. The air fare was the same as publicized when we made the down payment, but we didn't have to give names and make the final payment until a month or two out. You might investigate this if you haven't already. Good luck.
Galen
Dallas United States 5/21/13
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Easy Beach Excursion From Rome
I will be in Rome for 4 days 2 weeks from now, and thought I might like to dip my feet in the Mediterranean. I will be staying near Termini Station. Is there a small coastal town or good beach you can recomend that I can visit on a short train ride. Some ancient history site near by would be a plus.
Thanks, David
David
Dallas, Texas USA 5/21/13
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RE: Germany trip
thankyou all for the helpful comments, Seanna
Seanna
Liberty, Pa Usa 5/21/13
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Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
My husband and I will be in the Bernese Oberland and the Valais all of next week. We were planning on going up the Junfroujoch and also up to Gornergrat and the Klein Matterhorn but it looks like it will be raining/snowing the entire time. Everything I have read says not to bother if it is not a clear day. We are still interested in trying - is this a bad idea? If so, alternatives? It's my husbands first time in Switzerland and I haven't been since I was a child. Thanks in advance for any advice!
christie
pleasanton 5/21/13
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RE: Just a reminder...
Kevin - I agree with your wife. So hope the new series has something else to offer.
Linda
Bromley, Kent, UK 5/21/13
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RE: Train tickets from Prague to Vienna
The reason is that if you buy ticket on DB ahead, ticket is substantially cheaper. For that the train must originate or end or go through Germany. The best for you would be to buy your tickets when you come to Prague. You will get discount if you buy your ticket at least a day before travel and also you will get discount for group travel = more than one traveler. The more travelers the bigger discount. You will pay in Czech crowns. My educated guess is that it will be certainly less than 136 Euros.
Ilja
Seattle 5/21/13
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RE: Palo del Calle
Roberto,
I feel the same way about Facebook....no privacy ....but I am desperate to find this place. I will be so close in Rome....
I have never posted anything on Facebook, but I guess I will have to break down and ask my son can help me with Facebook....
Thank you for all your help.
Pattie
Pattie
Lakewood, Colorado USA 5/21/13
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RE: Munich hotels
Thanks to everyone.... we found a place.
Douglas
union, KY usa 5/21/13
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RE: Do wineries take credit cards north of Avignon France?
The wine cooperative in Gigondas does-and they offer more than 100 different wines for the tasting-no push to buy. A great experience.
Mike
Columbia, MO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Help with Itinerary
There are direct flights in July and August between Istanbul and Mykonos, but no other island. Check Pegasus Air and Atlas Jet.
Fly into Athens and out of Istanbul. If you like the idea of Mykonos this would be a simple process and save you a lot of time. Otherwise go to an island close to Athens such as Hydra so you can easily return to the mainland in just a couple of hours for a flight to Turkey, although returning the day before is better advised so you aren't scrambling to catch a same-day flight to Istanbul.
I seriously doubt that the heat in Greece will feel very bad to you since you live in India.
Lee
Global Family 5/21/13
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RE: Italy weather in November
Beginning November not extremely cold, but usually very rainy (early Nov. is the rainiest time of the year).
Late November is kind of cold (temp. in the 30's at night and 40's during the day), rain not as heavy. There are variations between North, South, Coastal Areas, Mountains etc. Dress for winter with rain gear.
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/21/13
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RE: St. Petersburg
Thank you, Galen and others. So then it is possible to walk around on your own, after the tour is over. We've been wanting to have dinner at what seems like an amazing restaurant, Palkin, our splurge of the trip.
I appreciate all the information. This helpline is so valuable!
Dorothy
New York City, NY 5/21/13
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rialto market open in the afternoon
My itinerary has ended up that the only morning we can do the Rialto Market is our last day there, but we have a free afternoon on the 2nd day. Is it worth it to go to the fruit/vegetable/fish market in the afternoon?
Ruth-Anne
Reston 5/21/13
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RE: Transportation from Santorini to Mykonos
Thanks for your helpful comments.
Jack
Boulder, Co USA 5/21/13
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RE: Paris Sights/Reservations Needed?
Maubourg or Montparnasse?
Ed
Pensacola 5/21/13
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RE: Palo del Calle
I've never been there (I've been to Bari and other places in Apulia, but never at Palo del Colle.
If you don't know how to use Facebook, don't ask me because I'm not in it. I don't like that level of lack of privacy. My only relationship with Facebook is that I have to drive in front of their headquarters twice a day on my way to/from work. And that is bad enough since they cause a lot of back up on the Dunbarton bridge.
Do a search on google entering:
NOLEGGIO CON CONDUCENTE PALO DEL COLLE.
Noleggio con Conducente (or N.C.C) is Italian for "Car Hire with Driver".
I doubt there are guides there, I don't think it's a major tourist destination. I'd never heard of it before this post.
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Train to San Marino
You need to take a train from Florence to Rimini (change in Bologna).
Trains don't go up the mountains and San Marino is on top a peak. So from Rimini you will take a bus.
Go to www.Trenitalia.com for trains. Enter from FIRENZE S.M. NOVELLA to RIMINI.
Once in Rimini, this is the bus schedule. It probably takes less than an hour from Rimini by bus (by car would take me less than 40 min to go up the hill).
http://www.riminiturismo.it/1744/36/Orari_Bus_di_Linea_per_la_Repubblica_di_San_Marino.html
PS: Avoid going on weekends, too many people visiting the Republic on weekends.
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/21/13
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Train tickets from Prague to Vienna
Hi
I am planning to travel from Prague to Vienna (in early July) and looking at tickets on the Czech Transport dot com website. Is this a good place to buy your tickets? Reason I ask is that we (4 people) are taking the train from Berlin to Prague earlier in our trip and the price is roughly half (87Euros vs 136 Euros) on the Berlin -> Prague trip. The two journeys seem to be roughly the same time on the train (EC171 (Berlin->Prague), EC73 (Prague -> Vienna).
Just wondering if someone had any thoughts? thx
Arun
Olympia, WA 5/21/13
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RE: Munich hotels
Doug,
We've stayed with Christina at the Hotel Monaco a few times and loved it. Close to the trains and easy walking anywhere. Rooms come with or without WC, and breakfast is available. It's also located the 5th or 6th floor of a building.
Jeff & Dianne
Jeff
Lakeville, MN 5/21/13
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RE: Rome to Castiglioncello:
Yes.
It will require 2 train changes. The first one in one of Rome stations (which stations will depend on which time and train), the second one at another station along the Tuscan Coast (Livorno, or Campiglia, or Cecina). Which one will also depend on which time and train you take.
You can get all the schedules on trenitalia.com
enter
FROM: Fiumicino Aeroporto
TO: Castiglioncello
Date: use a date within a week from today
Hour: enter 00 to see all possible solutions starting from the first one in the morning.
Search.
Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 5/21/13
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Train to San Marino
I am really bad a reading the train schedules. Will be leaving for Italy this Friday. Does anyone know the train route from Firenze to San Marino.
How long it takes and can you go and return the same day? Is there a route by train. I understand it is a very lovely place to visit.
Also any more information on the Train Strike! I need to take the train
from Cinque Terre to Monaco on June 9th which I understand is the 2nd day of the
strike?
Grazie
Gina
Virginia
Portland, Maine USA 5/21/13
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Switzerland Junfroujoch & Matterhorn
My husband and I will be in the Bernese Oberland and the Valais all of next week. We were planning on going up the Junfroujoch and also up to Gornergrat and the Klein Matterhorn but it looks like it will be raining/snowing the entire time. Everything I have read says not to bother if it is not a clear day. We are still interested in trying - is this a bad idea? If so, alternatives? It's my husbands first time in Switzerland and I haven't been since I was a child. Thanks in advance for any advice!
christie
pleasanton 5/21/13
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Chatsworth House & Haddon Hall - Best days to visit?
Hello,
I will be staying in Buxton for a week and would like to spend one day visiting Chatsworth House, and one day visiting Haddon Hall. I am just wondering if either of these tend to be super busy on the weekend. Would a week day be better to visit these places rather than on a Saturday? Also, is it necessary to book a ticket online? Or can you usually just buy a ticket at when you get there?
Thanks!
Jonna
Seattle 5/21/13
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RE: Itinerary feedback - Euro trip for group of 10
Some good hints are the ones you are giving me...
As for Paris: 6 of us have visited Paris on past occasions and we will skip it.
I was looking into winter destinations in Switzerland. So far I ruled out Zermatt (apparently it is not suitable for any day-trip to/from another city) and I'm looking more into Grindelwald.
I'm checking train schedules between Grindelwald and Rome. Apparently, it doesn't take that long, but it requires at least 4 transfers, some of them as tight as 9 min in Interlaken Ost. Is that too short?
Catherine
Wellington New Zealand 5/21/13
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RE: wifi in italy
Thank you all so much for confirming my decision. As we "speak" the mini ipad is going back to apple. I will stick with my ipad2. I agree with that the expense of the "latest and greatest" is best spent on Italian wine etc.
Mille Grazie!
Paige
Fredericksburg 5/21/13
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Brugge to Amsterdam
I'm in the process of booking much of our train travel for our upcoming trip and have been fortunate to use the DB Bahn site for most of it. Super easy, fares are good and ability to print out tickets at home. For my Brugge to Amsterdam leg, I think my only options are to use the Belgium site (www.b-europe.com) or the Netherlands site (www.nshispeed.nl/en). Am I correct in thinking these are my only options. Also, am I able to print tickets from these sites. Finally, I'm able to get fares for 29 Euros for 4 hour trips thru Db Bahn (Special Saving fares), but the fares I'm finding for the Brugge/Amsterdam are about double that. Are these the best I can expect?
Warren
Castlegar, BC Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Paris Sights/Reservations Needed?
Plan looks good now, I would still skip Champs its nothing to see but shops, and a few car dealerships, its overpriced and super crowded. have fun.
I would also recondsider switching Tuesday and wedsenday as I would not go to Versailles on fountain day, its not worth it, I have been over 8 or 9 times now and only once was it a "fountain show" day and frankly the extra crowds were not worth it... yes, the fountains look cool when they run, but its like 1/2 hr for a few fountains at once, and you have to run around the garden to see them all, and they are scheduled only every 3 hours or so, its impossible to see them all running unless you plan your day around it.. there is a lot more to see on grounds then them.
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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RE: wifi in italy
It will work fine on wifi. Just do not activate the 3G.
Lola
Seattle, WA 5/21/13
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RE: Time for connecting flight
Assuming you are not on the last flight for the day and assuming the next flight has room. I spend more time when booking tickets finding the one with the best connections than any other issue, including cost. My rule (which I recently broke) is no less than 1.5 hours on short hops (and I prefer 2 hours) and a solid two hours on every other connection. Without Global Entry it would be 2.5 hours minimum when entering the US. What do I do with all the free time? I got a Priority Pass card so I sit in the private lounge and drink free booze and eat free cheese and crackers. Beats sitting in an airport for 6 hours waiting for the next connection or spending the night in frakfurt.
James
Frisco 5/21/13
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RE: Getting to paris by train
www.idtgv.com/en/
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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Quick Paris visit - airport transportation advice, please!
We arrive with 3 of our children at CDG from SFO at 5 PM on 6/19, and are staying at a Clarion near the Champs Elysees for the first night and the Park Hyatt Vendome (love free nights!) the second. Our flight to Rome leaves ORY on 6/21 at 06:40...EARLY! Our two boys will have joined us by this time, so we have a total of 7 in need of a ride to the airport. Any recommendations? Are there taxis from CDG that can accommodate 5? How about 7 of us going to ORY - private van? Two taxis?
All advice on how to get our (exhausted at this point!) brood in and out of Paris would be so appreciated.
KN
Pleasanton, CA United States 5/21/13
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RE: London attractions - family tickets vs. 2-for-1 pass
Right you are, I was overlooking the fact that our 18 year old wouldn't count as a child for purposes of the family ticket. Looks like Westminster Abbey would count an 18 year old as a child for purposes of their family ticket, but not the other places. Looks like the 2-for-1 passes will be the way to go.
Bruce
Seattle, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Stroller
AMit some museums may have them for rent but that will not help you in day to day touring. Bring your own stroller, most people do unless child is old enough ( say over 4 ) where you will only need the stroller occasionally. For a baby or small child you really should have a stroller all the time. A small folding one is cheap to buy, if you only have a big heavy one at home I suggest you purchase an umbrella ( folding) stroller for the trip.
pat
victoria Canada 5/21/13
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RE: catacomb tours
We went to the catacombs of San Sebastiano..they have tour guides.. You won't nor would you want to wonder in any of the catacombs alone.. She was very knowledgeable and spoke English quite well.
Here's the official website for the Roma Pass - they have a list of all the locations that accept the Roma Pass.
Jim
Jim
Crystal Lake, IL United States 5/21/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Oops... My bad - comment posted late at night in wrong thread - brain dead. Deleted by Rose.
Rose
NYC 5/21/13
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RE: Iron and cotton clothes
If your hotel, B&B, or apartment has a laundry room, put the items in the dryer, tumble for a few minutes, wrinkles sometimes fall out.
Rebecca
Nashville, TN USA 5/21/13
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Lisbon/Spain Hotels!?! SOS!
Hello!! My boyfriend and I are traveling to Lisbon then planning on continuing onto Madrid and possibly Granada then to Barcelona. He was there after college (12+years ago!) and I have never been. What I'd love help with is knowing what areas in these cities are centrally located? Trying to be cost effective and would rather walk and explore then hop in a cab? We are leaving for Lisbon on June 27th and I still have no hotel booked!!! Ahh!!! :)
Thanks!
Rachel
Los Angeles, California USA 5/21/13
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RE: Getting to paris by train
thanks everyone for the suggestions..I had not found the idtgv site yet so will get on it...
marilynne
Victoria, BC Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Itinerary Help
You probably already know this, but just in case...your kids will travel free with you on all Swiss Transport. Be sure to get the free Swiss Family Card.
Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 5/21/13
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RE: Paris Sights/Reservations Needed?
If the Eiffel Tower doesn't work out, and you want an aerial view, consider the Tour Maubourg. It's modern and also crowded, but happens to have a view of ... ... the Eiffel Tower. Did you buy Rick's book? It's very useful and has very little hot air-quick to refer to. Paris is a busy city, and you might want to be able to change plans when you hit a huge line, a security shutdown, or a sidewalk and road construction project.
Tim
Wyckoff, NJ USA 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Itinerary Help
Don't forget about Ballenberg Open Air Museum.
http://www.ballenberg.ch/
It has some interesting displays, restaurants, etc and it's also free with your Swiss Pass.
Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 5/21/13
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RE: England: 10 days, first trip, too many choices HELP!
Chris - For car rental I'd recommend taking the train from London to Oxford and pick your car up there. Check out Auto Europe for car rental.
Joel
Tempe, AZ USA 5/21/13
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RE: Paris Sights/Reservations Needed?
Yes, I actually caught that the D'Orsay is closed on Mondays, have re-arranged our itinerary to look like this...still a few ?s though.
6/16 Sunday Luxemburg Garden and Cluny Museum, Notre Dame and Sainte Chapelle with concert.
6/17 Monday Metro to Trocedera then walk to by 9 am Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Arc d'Triomphe at sunset, Champs d'elysees (? may skip)
6/18 Tuesday Versailles (Fountain show) Arrive before it opens, use Museum Pass to skip ticket line
6/19 Wednesday Musee d'Orsay (Lines long-use Museum Pass go first thing in the morning) Montmarte, Sacre'Cour, ??Seine river cruise in evening
Does this sound doable??? Other suggestions have been the catacombs, Seine River boat and the On/off bus. We may be cramming way too much in but we are up early and out the door kind of people. Thankfully we have a few days to relax in a chateau after we leave Paris, phew! We may take in something we want to come back to or skipped when we return for the day on June 28th (our anniversary).
Cindy
Sacramento, Ca Usa 5/21/13
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RE: Need advice for rental car in Tuscany
I second Stacy's rec. My second would be Orvieto or Chiusi. Driving in Tuscany is easy but more challenging in Rome. Also, the train will zip you up to Tuscany a little easier (and probably cheaper) than driving on the A1.
Marcus
Birmenstorf Switzerland 5/21/13
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RE: Cruise Excursion Provence
I like Arles but am ambivalent about both St. Remy and Aix. Roussillon and Gordes are in the Luberon which is very scenic with perched villages, orchards and vineyards. I would go with the Luberon or one of the Arles excursions. If you liked wine more Chateauneuf du Pape and Avignon would be a good choice as well.
Tex
Denton 5/21/13
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RE: Umbrella and jacket needed?
Leia,
You are getting great advice from folks here. I have been in Italy (Milan to Rome) for 3 weeks now and have worn my rain jacket about 1/3 of the time, so, yes pack your new jacket, it's worth even minimal space in your luggage!
Enjoy your trip!
Erica
Olympia, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Pompei and Capri in one day
Personally, I'd skip Capri. Even the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii is very aggressive. I haven't been yet, but I've heard the ruins at Ostia Antica close to Rome are very good, so you might want to skip Pompeii and do that instead on one of your other Rome days (perhaps late in the afternoon). Honestly if you do the latter, focus on the Amalfi its gorgeous and way cooler than Capri. Train it to Sorrento and rent a car and drive as far as Ravello or Minori. There are car rental places close to the station in Sorrento. The Amalfi drive is easy and slow so don't worry about crazy southern Italian drivers!
Marcus
Birmenstorf Switzerland 5/21/13
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RE: St. Petersburg
I checked the ferry terminal site for St. Petersburg and it said that you did not need a visa if you are doing a less than 72 hour stopover. Also it mentioned a 25 euro hotel shuttle available. You might be able to book a tour thru your hotel (which you need to book ahead). Having been to St. Petersburg a while ago...it seemed to be an easy walk to most of the main sites. We did take a hydrofoil on the River Neva to the Summer Palace. It would probably be worth it to have an English speaking guide. I went to the Hermitage without a guide but with a few other Art Majors because we knew what we wanted to see.
Kathleen
Camano Island, WA usa 5/21/13
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RE: Switzerland Itinerary Help
Murten is just a cool town to wander around in, no blockbuster sights but just a beautiful Swiss town. I'd put Avenches last on your list. If you've been anywhere else with Roman ruins, they're comparatively underwhelming. In Bern, rather than the museum, here are some ideas: go up in the cathedral or clocktower (Zytglogge), right on the main drag through the old part of the city. I haven't been up in either in years but they're very interesting. Also, there's a spectacular view of the city just up the street from the Bärengraben. As you're crossing the bridge going to them go up towards the right past them. BTW: keep your ear out in Murten. Murten/Morat is right on what we call the "sprachgrenze" or language line in Switzerland. You're going to hear French one second, Swiss-German the next. You might even hear a heated conversation in a restaurant use words from both in the same sentence. Pretty cool and something you'll only hear here.
Marcus
Birmenstorf Switzerland 5/21/13
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RE: Pompei and Capri in one day
Visit Rome and skip the points south; the time you've allowed for Rome is insufficient. Actually, your allocation for Florence and Venice are insufficient, as well
If I were planning this trip, I'd focus on Venice and Florence; perhaps taking a day trip outside of Florence. On your proposed schedule, you'll be packing and unpacking, and barely have time to take anything in.
Joseph
Nashville, Tennessee U.S.A. 5/21/13
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RE: Need Advice for Train Trip in Germany
IMO, the 3rd party tours are not worth the considerable price they charge just to get you there. It is easy to just do the trip yourself. See here for information. If you go out to Hohenschwangau on the train and bus you can be pretty sure of you arrival time so you can reserve tickets in advance at www.hohenschwangau.de. The pickup line for reserved tours is short to non-existent.
Regardless of how you get there, you will be guided through the castle by the castle's own guides.
Lee
Lakewood, Colorado 5/21/13
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RE: TI at CDG airport
CdG info: http://www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/ADP/en-GB/Passagers/Home/
Southam
Windsor, Ontario Canada 5/21/13
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Kenmare/Killarney
Hi!
I am trying to decide if I should stay 1 night in Kenmare and 1 night in Killarney or 2 nights in one or the other.
We will be driving the day before from Kinsale and will stay the night in either Kenmare or Killareny then wake up the next morning, do the Ring of Kerry and stay in either Kenmare or Killarney.
The next day we will be driving to Dingle.
I am not sure if I should stay 1 night in each of the towns (Kenmare/Killarney) or two nights in one of them. Do you have suggestions on where to stay in either of these towns?
Which way should we drive the Ring of Kerry?
Any suggestions would be great!
Jennifer
HOWELL, MI USA 5/21/13
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RE: Need Advice for Train Trip in Germany
Definitely, use the German Rail (Bahn) website to get the schedule of trains between Nuernberg and Munich. Most of the time, there will be two ICEs per hour, one of them non-stop, plus occasional regional trains (RE). Note: the Bahn website accepts a number of non-Germany spellings of Nürnberg, but to be certain, spell it "Nuernberg".
If you are staying in the city of Nürnberg or just outside, you will be in the Verkehrsverbund Großraum Nürnberg (VGN, transit district greater Nuernberg). Rothenbuerg odT is also in the Verkehrsverbund and a VGN TagesTicket Plus (Verbundweit/10+T), for 16,80€, will cover a week day (or Sat and Sun) round trip from Nuernberg to Rothenburg for up 2 adults (6 travelers total).
Lee
Lakewood, Colorado 5/21/13
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RE: Need Advice for Train Trip in Germany
Thank you all for the good advice, I see the other site has much better train schedules and helps me to rethink the plan. Can anyone suggest a very good tour company out of munich to schedule day trip to castles. There are so many, would like nice bus, good tour guide, a company that does it all, gets the tickets to castle in advance etc, so no waiting in lines. Thank you!!
kel
richmond 5/21/13
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RE: Paris Sights/Reservations Needed?
Sorry, the d'Orsay is closed Mondays. Info here http://www.musee-orsay.fr/en/home.html There are tours some days in English, for an extra fee, or you can rent an audio guide which is worthwhile. General admission tickets may be purchased on-line and printed out at home, or through commercial ticket agencies.
The Louvre, closed Tuesdays, has a less convenient advance ticket policy http://www.louvre.fr/en/advance-tickets
Southam
Windsor, Ontario Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Quickest way to Burg Eltz Castle other than car
I would drop a quick note to the tourist information office in Moselkern and ask them the question as above. http://www.moselkern.de/pages/de/kontakt.php
YOu could proabbly just write it in German but you could also put the question through Google Translate and post the question in German below in the form. BTW: when filling out the form, the "Prüfziffer:6 plus 8 = Bitte Ergebnis eintragen" is guard against spam. Put in 14 and the form should work.
Marcus
Birmenstorf Switzerland 5/21/13
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RE: Palo del Calle
Roberto,
Thank you that information it was very helpful. I have been trying to find a guide that would meet us in Palo del Calle, but no luck. I am not that good on Facebook, and that is probably where I would find somebody. I thought the town hall would have a list. But I cannot find an email address for them either.
Have you ever been there?
Is there anyone on this site that has been there?
I am also a little afraid of being dropped off in a Strange town that I do not know the language ....and restaurants, etc. would be helpful.
I leave Thursday afternoon from Denver and still have not figured out how to get to my Grandfather's town.
Thank you again
Pattie
Pattie
Lakewood, Colorado USA 5/21/13
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RE: Three day trip after Oktoberfest
If you catch the 7:17 am direct train to Zürich, you will be there at 11:44. Take the 12:02 toward Bern and you will be in Lauterbrunnen at 14:25 (2 changes on the way).
there are lots of later trains with changes on the way to Zürich, but they take longer. The next direct train isn't until after noon.
Lola
Seattle, WA 5/21/13
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RE: England: 10 days, first trip, too many choices HELP!
London to start it is! David, we decided stay 5 days in London and do a day trip out to Windsor, then 4 days in the Cotswold area. (I'm hoping the B&B we had a reservation with can change our date and length of time.) We'd like to rent a car while we're in the Cotswolds and get up to Stratford while there. does anyone have a recommendation for car rental places there?
Also, any recommendations for an itinerary of what to see in London for the length of time we're there?
thanks everyone!
Chris
Eugene, OR USA 5/21/13
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RE: Salzburg worth a side trip?
" Didn't know if Salzberg is different enough from the other towns in Germany that we will be going to...."
Sarah, I assume that you realize that Salzburg is in Austria, not Germany. I think it's worth visiting, both to see the old town AND the part of town across the river, which has the Mirabel palace and concert hall and the Mozart Wohnhaus, as well as the rail station and many nice restaurants.
Joseph
Nashville, Tennessee U.S.A. 5/21/13
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Stroller
Hi ,
We would be in Germany and Austria for a week each. Wondering if there are stroller available on rent ? Would reduce packing
Amit
Mumbai, Maharashtr India 5/21/13
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Lisbon/Spain Hotels!?! SOS!
Hello!! My boyfriend and I are traveling to Lisbon then planning on continuing onto Madrid and possibly Granada then to Barcelona. He was there after college (12+years ago!) and I have never been. What I'd love help with is knowing what areas in these cities are centrally located? Trying to be cost effective and would rather walk and explore then hop in a cab? We are leaving for Lisbon on June 27th and I still have no hotel booked!!! Ahh!!! :)
Thanks!
Rachel
Los Angeles, California USA 5/21/13
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RE: Jazz Clubs in Paris - Dress Code ?
Other than for restaurants with Michelin stars or in snooty hotels, you can wear pretty much what you want. It may be disappointing but the only one who will notice you is you. I once saw a man wearing a gorilla suit strolling with a friend through the Pompidou art museum and attracting a glance from me but not many more.
Southam
Windsor, Ontario Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Time for connecting flight
Minimum connecting time at FRA is 45 minutes. If you arrived late you would be put on the next flight, presuming you are on one ticket.
Marco
Oxford, Oxon United Kingdom 5/21/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Attention Webmaster. Cleanup on aisle 5. Cleanup on aisle 5. Wow, you go on vacation for a long weekend, don't take a laptop with you, and look what you miss!
Rebecca
Nashville, TN USA 5/21/13
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RE: Food shopping in France
The indoor farmers' market, Les Halles on Place Pie, is open daily until 1 p.m. It does not open Mondays which happens to be the national holiday this year anyhow.
The central Monoprix, 24 rue de la Republic, includes a supermarket. It does not open Sundays and I can't sort out from this site http://alimentation.118000.fr/v_avignon_84/c_supermarche-et-hypermarche/e_monoprix-avignon_0490807790_C0051157395
whether it closes for the fete nationale.
Sorry, this is not a lot of help. Whoever represents the apartment should have better knowledge. Or you can try an e-mail to the city tourism office which in my experience is very helpful (and near that Monoprix) http://www.avignon-tourisme.com/home-1-2.html
Southam
Windsor, Ontario Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Train in Brussels
Buy online from https://www.belgianrail.be - ticket is e-mailed to you.
Marco
Oxford, Oxon United Kingdom 5/21/13
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RE: Athens to Dubronik
Best would be to fly, though you may not find many budget options. Transport between those two cities continues to improve, but given that you are going between an EU and Non-EU countries, that both are competing tourist destinations, and historical political issues have meant limited border traffic, it is still difficult.
Political issues in Albania (improving though) and a lack of international rail make a land crossing difficult, but not impossible. Buses are an option, a rental car likely not. For bus info, do some searching on Lonely Planets Thorntree Forum and search this forum, there have been a couple of postings.
There is no direct ferry, it is possible to take a ferry to Italy (Bari) and then to Dubrovnik, though you are looking at two nights of travel minimum.
Air is the other option. There are direct flights, or at least going through Zagreb, but not on budget airlines or Aegean. Croatia Air is the most likely option. You could do the same option though as a ferry, take a flight to Italy and connect to a flight to Dubrovnik. You could look into Vueling as well as Aegean. You can also play around on Whichbudget.com, that would give you airlines that fly to those destinations.
Paul
Cedar , IA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Dublin Airport Car Rental
Manual is always cheaper. I have no problem shifting with my left hand. But because I don't normally drive a stick, I get an automatic if the price isn't outrageous just because it removes one level of stress for me to not have to deal with shifting in addition to driving on the left, particularly in towns.
Nancy
Bloomington, IL USA 5/21/13
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RE: GPS in Europe
I think it's easier to bring a GPS from home that you are familiar with, rather than trying to use a new one at the same time you are trying to figure other things out.
Andrea
Sacramento, CA 5/21/13
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RE: Need Advice for Train Trip in Germany
Yes, use www.bahn.com. I hope you are not using Raileurope. So if you want to see Rothenburg, its along the way between Frankfurt and Nuremberg. There is a fast nonstop ICE train every hour between Munich and Nuremberg, and trains that make stops running in between them.
Sam
Green Bay 5/21/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
I sent you a Private Message.
Andrea
Sacramento, CA 5/21/13
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RE: Budapest to Prague on Train
By the way, its a 7 hour trip and the fare is only 19 euro. A real deal, but way too long on a train for me. You really ought to think about stopping in Vienna for a day or two.
James
Frisco 5/21/13
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RE: Three day trip after Oktoberfest
Thanks for the information! We have been to Andechs and the mountains of Bavaria, so will need to go further afield for new adventures :) I think we will take the time and the train to go up to Lauterbrunnen and then fly out of Zurich.
Lisa
Phoenix 5/21/13
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RE: Budapest to Prague on Train
I've purchased ticket in town on a number of occasions without any problem. I would suggest you do it your first day in Budapest if possible. I also make no guarantees ;-0 But I travel quite a bit and it is what I would do. I have also tired the MAV site and it does seem to work. They take your money and set a reservation but they will not issue you a ticket on line you have to go to the station to print your ticket. http://www.mav.hu/english/ You may have had problems if you tried to early. In this part of the world its tough to make a reservation for anything more than 60 days in advance (if that soon).
James
Frisco 5/21/13
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RE: Need Advice for Train Trip in Germany
Not sure where you are looking up your train information, but the Deutsche Bahn website (which is the one you should be using) shows a train every 30 min. all day long going from Munich to Nuremberg.
Jo
Frankfurt Germany 5/21/13
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RE: Transportation from Santorini to Mykonos
I would not put much faith in reviews of ferries. You are pretty much limited to taking what is available, and in my experience, all offer the same basic service...transport. When comparing, consider first the schedule, both departure and arrival times. Beyond that, look at the boat size and consider your tolerance for rough travel. If you are sensitive to motion, the jet boats can be risky...if the sea is glass smooth and no wind, they are great, any chop at all and maybe you, and certainly some around you, will need a sickness bag. The big old car ferries are very stable, but slow. The best compromise are the large catamaran type ferries, decent speed with good stability.
Paul
Cedar , IA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Sorrento to Capri to Naples
Thanks for the great information. I knew I could count on this site to help us out!
Michele
Bellingham, Washington 5/21/13
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RE: Italy weather in November
Whatever the averages says it is. About the same as forecasting for Corpus Christi at the same time. Who knows? The days will be much shorter with weak sunshine so it probably will be cooler especially when at sea. Would plan for more long sleeve than short sleeve. But nearly impossible to answer.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Towns to see between Genoa and Chamonix
We enjoyed the Val d'Aosta region during our 2 day stay in Aosta. It is not far from Chamonix so very similar views of the Alps. A number of castles in the area and the Gran Paradiso National Park has some nice views. It may take more time than you would be willing to allow but something to consider.
Lane
Mansfield, GA 5/21/13
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RE: Bacharach ,Rhine, Frankfurt in July
The Main river has cycling paths on it and you can ride down to Seligenstadt or Aschaffenburg from Frankfurt and then either ride back, or take the train back. Very pretty scenery along the way. There is also another river that runs through Frankfurt, called the Nidda and this also has great bike paths on it. Look on Google maps to see where these rivers go and the towns they go through.
Jo
Frankfurt Germany 5/21/13
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RE: Krakow's Glowny Train Station
Thanks everyone. I got the info from friends that passed through Krakow main station a few years ago. I'm pleased that you all have had a good experience lately. I'm feelling better all over. Regards, Emma
Emma
Derry 5/21/13
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RE: Munich to Lake Bled train
Here is some information on getting from the airport to the main train station in Munich.
Lee
Lakewood, Colorado 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
Rose makes an excellent point. When they ask questions like the OP's, most people are not really trying to look French, German, Italian or whatever; they just want to fit in enough to avoid being stereotyped, targeted and taken advantage of by con artists, pickpockets and unscrupulous merchants (stereotypes, as well, but they do exist). Just because someone asks a question does not mean they are scared; sometimes they just want information, not opinions, including this one.
Roy
Auburn, AL 5/21/13
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RE: WiFi on Trenitalia/Italo
James, yes, that's what I want to do. But I'm having a hard time registering on their website because they want me to enter an Italian address to get the card (which I don't even want in the first place, but I think that's the only way to sign up). Any suggestions?
Gabriel
Pico Rivera, CA 5/21/13
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RE: GPS in Europe
We just rented a car in Verona and got the GPS option. It came in handy but too often when we needed it, it would be "recalculating". Part of the problem, I think, was that it hadn't been d in 27 months (as it reminded us periodically). Thank heaven I was familiar enough with where we were going and with how Italian highway signs work that I was able to get us where we were going anyway.
I say get the GPS but don't assume you can rely on it 100% when you need it.
Michael
Seattle, WA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Three day trip after Oktoberfest
Lauterbrunnen's a little far, considering that the Bavarian Alps are only an hour south of Munich. You would spend the better part of the day driving to the Berner Oberland, whereas you could be in the Bavarian Alps before lunch.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/21/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
Hi Andrea,
At this point, I plan on spending 2 months traveling. My thoughts are to have modest accommodations along the way. Again, at this point nothing is set. I'm just debating on how ambitious I should make the trip.
Craig
Craig
Sacramento 5/21/13
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RE: Need Advice for Train Trip in Germany
"Is Rothenburg worth the trouble to try and visit??" Not unless you're traveling in the general vicinity. It is, without question, an attractive town. But it isn't nearly as unique as a lot of the travel literature makes it seem. Germany is loaded with well-preserved historical towns. Most, unlike Rothenburg however, are not filled with trinket shops and tour buses. If you're traveling farther than two hours out of your way to visit Rothenburg, you have probably passed several good alternatives along the way.
I don't know the Kaiserslautern area that well, but ask your hosts about some of the towns of the German Wine Road, like Bad Dürkheim and Neustadt. Also look into Speyer. Near Heidelberg, consider Heppenheim, Bennsheim, Weinheim, Lindenfels, Michelstadt and Erbach, Dilsberg, Hirschhorn, Neckarsteinach, and Bad Wimpfen.
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/21/13
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Italy weather in November
Cruising to Italy/France/Spain in November. What is the typical weather during this time of year?
Gillian
Corpus Christi, Texas USA 5/21/13
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RE: Train in Brussels
Ten persons + brief visit = 3 taxis.
Southam
Windsor, Ontario Canada 5/21/13
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RE: Bacharach ,Rhine, Frankfurt in July
The Odenwald region south of Frankfurt is a hiker's paradise, but can be difficult to navigate without a car. Here's a suggestion for a hike I know well that can be accomplished in about 3-4 hours, with the start and end points convenient to trainstations.
Take a Regiobahn south to Heppenheim. From the Bahnhof, look east towards the mountains. To your left, you'll see a castle. To your right, you'll see some vineyards. Head in that direction and look for the trail markers-these are usually numbers or simple geometric shapes painted on posts, walls or trees. The symbol you're looking for is a horizontal red rectangle- follow the red rectangle the entire distance and you won't get lost. The trail starts near the back of a cemetery. Follow the red rectangles up through the vineyard and up the mountain. The trail will eventually lead into the woods. It more or less follows a southward direction along the ridge of the mountain. Most of it is in the woods, but now and again it opens up and gives you a breathtaking view. You will pass at least two medieval watchtowers (the second is a slight detour off your direct path to the top of the ridge). After the second tower, the trail descends into the town of Weinheim. You can catch a train back to Frankfurt from here. Or, if you still have some energy, check out Weinheim's attractive old town, including the Schloss and Schlossgarten.
There's almost certainly some good hiking around Marburg, but I don't know of any specific hikes.
For biking trails, check out this webiste
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/21/13
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RE: Do wineries take credit cards north of Avignon France?
In my experience, most, but not all, wineries anywhere in France take credit cards. The exception will often be small farm wineries where the tasting room is part of the cellar.
Robert
Portland 5/21/13
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RE: Germany trip
It is very easy to get around by train. Sometimes transfer times look short, but the schedule allows all the time you should need unless there is a physical problem.
For many short train trips, use either the Lander ticket (such as the Bavaria ticket), weekend ticket or Quer-Durch-Land ticket. These are good on regional trains at reduced rates for your group of 4. There are details on the bahn.de website, also on this and other forums.
With the advent of the internet, it has become so easy to reserve rooms in advance (no sending letters back and forth for weeks like in the olden days!) If you can fix your itinerary, then I would certainly reserve rooms.
stephen
Greeley, co usa 5/21/13
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RE: Time for connecting flight
Yes, flight delays are a big killer for connections, and seem to be pretty frequent on transatlantic flights. On our recent trip to France, our connecting flight from Philadelphia to Paris was reading "On Time" for hours before the flight, and in fact right up to the scheduled boarding time. Then suddenly it was announced that there was a problem with the plane, and we'd be getting a different plane at another gate. It meant unloading and reloading everything, plus servicing the new plane. In the end, the flight left an hour late, but arrived only half an hour late, and we had left plenty of time for our train connection. And then on our return, the flight left about 45 minutes late and we almost missed our connection in Philadelphia.
Robert
Portland 5/21/13
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RE: GPS in Europe
I had driven all over without a GPS and never felt I needed one - until I went to Italy. Somehow we survived but lost too much time asking for directions (how's your l'Italiano?) and taking wrong turns.
In towns/cities there are almost no street signs - so it's nearly impossible to place yourself on a map, let alone know if this is the street you need to turn on. A GPS knows the street names even when there is no sign.
On the Autovias, there are no signs that say "next exit A5 west" or even "Florence" or "Rome". Instead there is s sign AT the exit with the names of a few small towns you never heard of. Unless you have memorized every town along your route, you will probably miss multiple exits or take the wrong ones. Each missed turn results in a loss of 15 to 20 minutes because the toll road only has occasional exits; you have to get off, pay your toll, find a way across the road and an entrance to get back on.
In Austria, Germany and Switzerland you can do fine with a good map. In Italy, a good GPS is worth its weight in gold.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: Can North Americans really get a four week vacation?
Woaaahhhh - this thread is still going...! I think a good point was brought up by Sarah about adverse career repercussions from taking a lot of time off, which highlights the bifurcated answer to this question - it depends if you're in the 20-40 crowd and have less seniority and clout (and vacation time accrued) at work vs the Rickster crowd which is likely above 40, set in their career and have enough time accrued, or retired. But the perception - accurate or not, it's out there like a white elephant - of taking time off as being a career sideliner is a sad statement on how American businesses view vacation time (i.e. that an employee can actually be viewed as not committed enough to their job to disappear for 2-3 weeks). And of course it's not even as clear cut as that, since over 40 folks are having to reinvent themselves all the time if they're unfortunate enough to be cut prematurely...there's a sense of insecurity that plays into decisions to be gone from work for lengthy periods, it's not just a matter of figuring out how to cobble time together.
Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
Craig, can you be a little more specific than "a few months"? What does that really mean?
Andrea
Sacramento, CA 5/21/13
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RE: Transportation from Paris to Normandy
It's definitely easier to rent a car in Caen, although it is possible (and I did it) in Bayeux also.
Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 5/21/13
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RE: Krakow's Glowny Train Station
I was in Krakow Glowny today. The train station is attached to a Galleria-type shopping mall, which is closed late at night, so if you are taking a taxi to the train station at 4:30am, the cab driver will do the right thing and let you off on the roof (!) of the station. Even at reasonable times, this is the usual drop-off point. Check the platform schedule (posted outside each staircase to the numbered platforms), then turn around and choose the elevator for your platform, unless you don't mind carrying luggage down a flight of stairs. Once you reach the platform, your train's departure time and track number will be posted on the electronic board. Note that each platform has two tracks, one on the left and one on the right.
It's not difficult, but I wish I'd had some coffee first.
Zoe
Toledo, Ohio US 5/21/13
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RE: Florence to Pisa to Lucca and back to Florence in one day
Pisa has the outstanding Field of Miracles that includes the leaning tower. If you start early, with a car, you should have seen everything you want to see by mid-day.
Lucca isn't a favorite of mine. It has a nice brick wall that has been turned into a park/path around town, but the town itself is flat and shouldn't be confused with a hill town. It is better for bikes than hill towns but don't expect anything special.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: advice itinerary Switzerland
Give us a little more information, this site normally answers specific questions. Will you be flying into Geneva or Zurich? Or will you be driving in from France, Germany or Italy? By the way, welcome to the board! Another way you can get info is to go to the top of this page and find the search box in the upper right hand corner. Eliminate the word "search" and type in, "driving a car in Switzerland" or something like that, and you should find answers to similar questions and responses from the past. Give us posters specific towns, villages names and surely someone has stayed there or near there and knows about sleeping facilities.
Jim
Dallas, Texas USA 5/21/13
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RE: Traveling with babies
Airfare, $9000 (for six).
Paris apartment for a week,$2500 ( Vacation In Paris has apartments for 6 tp 7 people for $300 to$315 a night).
Allow the same for an apartment somewhere else, and that leaves $4000. That should be enough for food, sightseeing,metc., especially if you mostly fis meals at the apartment and figure in what you would otherwise be spending on food at home.
Sasha
Bainbridge Island 5/21/13
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RE: Bacharach ,Rhine, Frankfurt in July
Also, are there any idyllic cycling paths within an hour of Frankfurt...the pleasant easy ones! :)
Sally
Lavelle 5/21/13
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RE: Three day trip after Oktoberfest
Salzburg for sure, two nights would be great. Then pick another sight or two that is convenient to the area to round out your trip.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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Train in Brussels
I have a brief layover with a team of nine college students in Brussels in a couple of weeks. I've had a layover in Brussels before, but I had trouble last time with the train ticket from the airport to Central Station. For starters, I arrived so early in the morning there was no one working at the ticketing counter. Then, the machine I should have used to obtain tickets was out of order. While I was under the impression I could get into Brussels for a few Euro, the only working ticketing machine charged me over 7 Euros. Upon returning to the airport, I learned the ticket I had was not valid and was charged an additional 10 Euros. How can I easily obtain tickets and avoid headaches with my team? Can I use a credit card to obtain tickets or do I need to get Euros in advance?
Thanks!
Brant
Brant
Phoenix, AZ 5/21/13
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RE: Spain: Clean Toilets, Affordable Lodging
Itinerary:
We went through Spain in sort of a figure eight pattern. Starting in Barcelona and ending in Madrid.
Barcelona
Montserrat
Zaragosa
Olite
Pamplona
San Sebastian/Donostia
Vitoria
Burgos (and some castles in the area)
Valladolid
Salamanca
Avila
Segovia
Toledo
Consuegra
Belmonte
Valdepenas
Jaen
Granada
Antequera
Ronda
Gibraltar
Tarifa (and Baelo Claudia Roman ruins)
Cadiz
Jerez
Seville
Cordoba
Madrid
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
I think Tom sums it up pretty well, and Sarah's reply is instructional, too, because it underscores the fact that many of the "fashion tips" being provided are from older folks here...probably retirement age or above. Now, if that advice is being given to another older person...that's awesome. Often, however, someone will say that they are in their 20s or early 30s, yet people ignore it and give all manner of suggestion for 65 year-olds. I wonder how many of you would still wrestle with this idea of fitting in like a local if you were going to visit Tokyo, Seoul, or someplace where you definitely will not look like a local no matter what you do with your wardrobe (because you're a suburban white person)? Some Americans in Europe will not look like stereotypical Americans, ever. That's cool. Many will. Who cares? Some Europeans will look just like Americans when vacationing here, and some won't. Who cares? Just go on vacation and be done with it. BTW, if you were going to Seoul or Tokyo, you could ditch all of the debate about which money belt to use, how to avoid pickpockets, how to avoid becoming a crime statistic, what to do if hubby gets mugged by three 11 year-olds, etc. Those are European problems.
Michael
Des Moines, IA 5/21/13
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RE: Paris tours
I've never used them but the complaint was concerning so I've had a look at the isango website for the Alhambra. They must have changed things now because it says now that that the tickets have to be collected 24 hours before the tour and that they tell you if you are on the morning or afternoon tour then.
That seems like an awful lot of trouble, but it may be more organized than when you suffered.
$64 each sounds like a lot of money.
Nigel
East Midlands England 5/21/13
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RE: wifi in italy
@Paige, I doubt your Verizon ipad will work in Italy, unless its an international version. In the states, VZ (and Sprint) works of a CDMA network. In Europe and most countries, GSM is the common network. In the states, AT&T and T-Mobile are the main GSM networks. Also, just "googling" something isn't going to be 100 megabytes, although you'll blow through a 100mb's pretty quickly if you leave the cellular radio on constantly.
Chris
St Petersburg, Florida US 5/21/13
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RE: Bacharach ,Rhine, Frankfurt in July
These suggestions are all so helpful. Can you suggest any beautiful day hikes in places not so far from Frankfurt? Love flowers and views. Thanks! Also, I really like the photos of Marburg. Thank you. Any nice walks around there?
Sally
Lavelle 5/21/13
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RE: Hotels in Cortona
Another vote for Hotel Italia - helpful staff, great location. Cortina is gorgeous, can't wait to go back next year. To Hotel Italia.
Zoe
Toledo, Ohio US 5/21/13
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RE: To Rest or Not to Rest...
these are amazing offbeat recommendations! Some I've done before, but would love to revisit. Oh the Shakespeare - could consume an entire day easily :-) And a Hemingway crawl could be fun. Chani - I have been to St Chappele before but not for a concert which must be awesome. Will definitely look into. I think everyone has convinced me to stay put in Paris (not exactly a hardship!!) and so we will and fill this trip with little-known gems that have been suggested. The Rodin museum I could sit in for hours (and have) over and over again. And the advice about the days being short are wise - I appreciate all the feedback. My husband agrees - and we will be back much more often and have many more trips to play worn-out tourist in the future!!
Christine
Washington DC 5/21/13
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RE: Umbrella and jacket needed?
I'm in cloudy Vienna now and it's rained in Berlin, Warsaw and Krakov, only for an hour or so at a time, but it seems that lots of Europe is under a wet spot this month. Take the lightweight rain jacket, the €5 umbrellas can last a whole trip or turn out to be single-use disposables.
Zoe
Toledo, Ohio US 5/21/13
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RE: Hotel with AC and parking in Salzberg
The Star Inn Zentrum is 5-10 min walk to the old town, direct through a pedestrian passage. It has parking underneath the hotel. Not sure about a/c but it's a basic chain hotel, so it may.
Kathy
Germany Germany 5/21/13
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RE: Cruise Excursion Provence
As noted, this is not primarily a cruise website, so you might inquire elsewhere. On the rare occasions we take a cruise, I often buy a couple of guidebooks to help me answer the question you are asking. You told us about your wine concerns, which are important - especially on a big excursion, you're not likely to get to choose which wines are offered.
I'd add that there is substantial driving involved in most of these trips. Unless your boat is staying overnight, I would say that the risk of not getting back in time for departure weighs in favor of taking the cruise's excursion - that completely eliminates any worries that could spoil your day, even if you do get back in time. Cruise excursions are expensive, that's just the way it is.
If money is tight and Marseille is of interest to you, take advantage of a port in a real attraction and tour on your own with a guidebook or a cabdriver. If you want to see the countryside or a different, important attraction (like Arles or Avignon, etc.) take an excursion.
Tim
Wyckoff, NJ USA 5/21/13
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RE: Just a reminder...
Linda, that is good news. I'm sure it will be as enjoyable as the earlier series, although my wife says that nothing can compare if it doesn't have Luca Zingaretti in it...
Regarding Eurovision, I felt the same about the Greek entry. Singing in their own language, the nod towards national dress, the folk instruments, it was essentially a statement of national pride. Not surprising, given recent events.
As for the Romanian entry, Graham Norton was doing the commentary on the BBC and as the song was about to start he said "small children and pets should probably be removed from the room, as we embrace song 14, Cezar." But I quite liked it. I mean, how many 7 foot 8 inch countertenor vampire impersonators are you going to see in one lifetime?
Kevin
Ringwood, Hampshire UK 5/21/13
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RE: Need Advice for Train Trip in Germany
I have been looking at train schedules to go to nuremburg from Munich but they appear to only leave around 4 in the afternoon, no earlier trains so it doesn't leave much time to see the city, have dinner then catch a train back to munich which is around 8. It seems odd there aren't more trains, I'm not sure if I'm just not getting all the information on-line. Have thought about ordering the thomas cook schedule to be sure.
kel
richmond 5/21/13
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RE: Hotel with AC and parking in Salzberg
Sarah, heat waves may be rare in Salzburg, but they do happen. Some friends from here got caught in a July heat wave two or three summers ago and came back complaining that it was just as hot and humid in Salzburg as in a typical summer in Alabama. The Hotel Elefant, a Best Western hotel in the center of the old city, is air conditioned. We had a short stay there in March at off-season rates a few years ago and liked it. I am sure rates are much higher in the summer, but you could check; it might be worth a splurge for one or two nights. In addition to the RS forum, this is one topic you might want to explore on the TripAdvisor Salzburg forum.
Roy
Auburn, AL 5/21/13
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RE: Salzburg worth a side trip?
Think we have decided to skip Dinklesbuhl and add an overnight stay in Salzberg thanks to all of your suggestions. Thank you all so much for your input--it is greatly appreciated! Does anyone have any suggestions for hotels with AC and easy parking? Didn't know if it would be easier to stay on the outskirts of Old Town with a car (posted this separately, but thought I'd ask it here also) Thanks so much!
Sarah
Birmingham, AL United States 5/21/13
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RE: Munich hotels
For nothing fancy, be sure to consider Pensions. They are generally nice rooms in someone's home and cheaper than a hotel but much nicer than a hostel. The standard for cleanliness is outstanding at every Pension I've seen through the area.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
Hi Ron and Ed,
Thanks for the info. I'll stay clear of any tour groups. I hope to keep the budget around $15k-$20k, but at this point have no idea how far that will get me.
Craig
Craig
Sacramento 5/21/13
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RE: Quickest way to Burg Eltz Castle other than car
I'd second the recommendation to stash your bags in Koblenz. Walking through the forest from Moselkern is not the quickest way to Burg Eltz but it is the best way (by far) IMO. I considered the walk to be at least half of the experience.
The castle itself is nice. It's fairly small. The tour only covers a small number of rooms. If I didn't have time to walk through the forest, I'd skip it and visit a more convenient castle (Marksburg or Rheinfels) on the Rhine.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: Need Advice for Train Trip in Germany
I have to fly to Frankfurt first to meet up with my daughter who will be staying with a friend in Kaiserslaughten. They can meet me in Frankfurt or Heidelburg by train. It sounds like we should stay a night in Nurenburg instead of heading back to Frankfurt each night to be closer to getting to Rothenburg. Roundtrip flight to prague and ending in Zurich is under $300 and is a 1 hour flight each way saving lots of travel time. Is Rothenburg worth the trouble to try and visit?? Or should I spend more time in Saltzburg? Wasn't sure if Rothenburg was very similar to Nurenburg. Please let me know your thoughts, thank you!!
kel
richmond 5/21/13
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RE: Need Advice for Train Trip in Germany
If you are landing in Frankfurt, a day trip to Heidelberg works well, but to Nuremberg, it is 2 hours one way on the ICE, and to Rothenburg 2.5 hours with 2 changes. From Munich though, Nuremburg is only 1 hour away, so it makes more sense to day trip from there, rather than from Frankfurt.
Rothenburg is your outlier, so you might want to consider visiting a similar town that is easier to get to. Büdingen is just an hour outside of Frankfurt, or you could also visit Michelstadt which is also just one hour away from Frankfurt, or one of the other medieval walled towns that abound throughout Germany.
Jo
Frankfurt Germany 5/21/13
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Help with Itinerary
Hi,
We are a married couple of 29 and are planning to visit Turkey (Mainly Istanbul) and Greece (Athens and one Island) from 15th to 24th of August. Need some help in planning the itinerary.
P.S: I know 9 days is really too less for a trip to both Greece and Turkey but we have been wanting to do this for quite some time and given the airfares we cannot think of two separate trips to Turkey and Greece
1. We can't seem to finalize on if we should fly into Istanbul and fly out of Athens or vice versa. Open jaw ticket fares for both are in the same range and are almost at par with return tickets from either location. Need your suggestions on what would be the best option. Can we take a ferry from a Greek island to Turkey and then get to Istanbul from there?
2. We want to do Athens and one Greek island. Which one should we look at? Would probably be an island with connectivity to Turkey
3. Mid to end August would be too hot and humid? We are from India and are pretty used to the heat, but how bad does it really get?
4. Any suggestions how we should split the trip?
Thanks much in advance for all your suggestions!
Cheers,
Biraja
Biraja
Bangalore, Karnataka India 5/21/13
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RE: german rail region passes
No need to prepurchase, they are not limited and take only a second to purchase from a machine in the station. They are for use on regional trains during the week (on weekends purchase the similar Schoenes Wochende passes instead). The Bayern ticket are good for unlimited on/off travel for the whole day - but don't start until the morning rush hour is over (9 or 9:30 am?).
I can't recall whether I used them for S-Bahn, U-Bahn, or city busses. Lee is the train expert, especially for Germany, and can fill you in more fully.
I find myself renting cars more lately, primarily so I can make lots of stops along the way at smaller towns and sights without losing the time I'd lose to making train connections.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: Spain by Car
We had a similar experience in Spain last autumn. However we found the country not so prosperous as you would expect with an unemployment rate of 25%+. We were in Madrid and Andalucia. We plan a similar driving trip for Barcelona and the North. We wish the Spanish had a love for more street signs. DH
DH
San Antonio, TX USA 5/21/13
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RE: April in Paris - A Trip Report
Thank you, again! I can't wait to go back to France and I will definitely share my photos here. Ken - I used Lightroom 4 to convert the images from RAW then I would do any final tweaking in Photoshop CS6. In my own tests, I found that LR4 seemed to do the best job of converting (even better than the software that came with the camera).
Scott
Vermilion, Ohio USA 5/21/13
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RE: To Rest or Not to Rest...
I vote for a week in Paris. On more than one occasion I have spent an entire week in Paris and have never gotten bored or regretted it. Limited mobility will complicate matters but not horrifically. I agree that learning the art of café sitting is a must! Some suggestions of other things to do:
•Pere Lachaise Cemetery: half cemetery/half local landmark. Visit some famous graves. It's also where the communards made their last stand.
•Spend a morning in Shakespeare & Co. bookshop, communing with the lost generation and talking with the staff.
•Paris Sewer museum. Small but interesting.
•Go to a Jazz Club and groove to the beat as late as you want (I recommend Caveau de la Huchette).
•Track down Hemingway and Fitzgerald's old haunts.
•If you've never been, Napoleon's tomb is a must see. At Invalides.
•Picnics! Half the fun is buying the ingredients at the outdoor markets: http://www.paristopten.com/en/toptens/places-to-shop/top-ten-food-markets/
•Track down the remains of the Roman coliseum in Paris. (Not much to see, but its near rue Mouffetard!)
•Bits of the medieval city wall of King Philip Augustus can still be found (1200s).
•Did you know there's a Little Tokyo in Paris? You'll be the only Americans in sight.
•Shopping on Boulevard Haussmann!
Enough said. You won't run out of stuff to do. Have a great time!
Thomas
Vienna Austria 5/21/13
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german rail region passes
Each region/state in germany offers rail passes that include local transportation. Can these passes be purchased at stations in germany or should they be purchased before arrival? Also, I asked earlier about Munich to Regensburg....Are bus/train on the Bayern ticket?
gary
janesville wi, wisconsin usa 5/21/13
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RE: Need Advice for Train Trip in Germany
Have you priced your Prague-Zurich flight? Looks pricey. There is good bus service between Prague and Nuremburg. 3 hour, 40 min with a 19 euro savings fare. Rothenburg is only 1 hour, 10 minutes from Nuremberg, 29 euro for 2 using a Bayern ticket. As Ron suggested, flying direct to Prague might be the way to go. If you have to drop a spot, Heidelberg can wait as it is out of the way. Rothenburg to Munich is only about 3 1/2 hours from Rothenburg and 26 euro for 2 with the Bayern ticket.
Sam
Green Bay 5/21/13
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RE: Day Tours Barcelona
There is a very good, and very affordable, walking tour of the Barri Gotic offered by the TI. It starts at the St. James Square TI, but you can make reservations ahead of time at other TIs. We made reservations the day before in the Placa Catalunya TI.
Someone here mentioned a day tour (by van or bus) of the Moderniste architecture sights - the Block of Discord, Parc Guell, and the Sagrada Familia Cathedral. We walked, but it's probably a lot more than most people want to walk in a day.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: Salzburg worth a side trip?
My first trip to Germany I only made one stop outside the country, Salzburg. A friend had bicycled through Europe on his honeymoon and recommended Salzburg as one of the most beautiful cities anywhere. Most places can't live up to that kind of billing, but Salzburg did.
If you can stay a night, you should. One sight that is etched on my mind permanently is of Salzburg's old center, lit up at night, as seen from one of the walking bridges across the river. I've seen many of the iconic views people associate with Europe and can't think of any that top the view that evening.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: International Driver's Permit/License
Yes, Spain requires an IDP. Pick one up, for each driver, at AAA. If you have any extra passport pics, bring them and save some money.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: Cruise Excursion Provence
I'm not the best to give advice around Marseille. One good place to look is cruisecritic.com. They have reviews of every possible excursion from every port. I normally avoid the tours offered by the cruises, in favor of going on my own. I often start at cruise critic to get a flavor of the different options, then figure out how to do it on my own.
If you don't feel comfortable doing it outside a tour, you can almost always find a local guide that will give you the same experience (with a small group) for less than the cruise tours charge for their big bus tours.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: language
It's nice to know polite terms, in the local language, wherever you visit.
Virtually every German in the areas you mention will speak English. It's not unusual to find some middle-age or older Germans who speak little English. English is also less common further north and east - but everyone you're likely to run into will speak perfect (and I mean perfect) English.
Even Americans who speak German are likely to have their German greeting responded to in English.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: Spain White hill town - Ronda
We picked Ronda over Arcos for our trip, and we're happy with our choice. I felt it had more to see and do than Arcos, particularly the view from the bridge, bull ring, old ruins, and cave-like stairs down to the bottom of the gorge.
With a family and car, I'd also suggest visiting the passage tombs in Antequera not far from Ronda. I believe the newest is upwards of 5,000 years old. They're free and have surprisingly nice facilities for visitors.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: language
I agree that learning a few essential words of German will be helpful. However, please do not ask Where is the bathroom? unless you want to take a bath. If you are looking for the toilet, ask Where is the toilet, or the WC, pronounced vaytzay. Also avoid asking for the restroom, folks just don't understand what that means.
Joan
Gettysburg, PA USA 5/21/13
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RE: Seville or Madrid
Seville is much more worth a visit, IMO, than Madrid.
Madrid is a new city by any European standard. Architecture, history, etc. are noticeably lacking. The Prado is a great museum and there are some excellent green spaces - otherwise I find it skip-able.
The downside, Seville will be very hot in summer, make sure you pick lodging with air conditioning.
Normally, I advise, for a shorter trip, to pick either northern or southern Spain. In summer, I normally advise staying north. Even then, I'd skip Madrid in favor of Toledo, Burgos, and/or Salamanca, and some castles in that area.
Another good summer option is to stay in the Basque region along the northern coast. Summer is by far the best time to see that area.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: Florence to Pisa to Lucca and back to Florence in one day
A day trip to both Pisa and Lucca is very realitic. I did Lucca then Pisa a few years ago by train, but bus between Pisa and Lucca may be more efficient. I'd suggest spending the morning in Pisa, and then going to Lucca for lunch (several good restaurants to pick from) and an afternoon of activities. There are trains about hourly back to Florence, so you can linger in Lucca if you want.
Edit: Also, Lazzi runs a bus from Lucca to Florence (arrives near the SMN train station). It's about the same price as the train and faster when traffic isn't heavy on the expressway.
Frank
Wilmington, DE 5/21/13
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RE: Store Hours in Helsinki/Babushka Dolls
I think Tom's description is right. Stores may be open later during the sunny part of the year. We shopped a little for souvenirs at the open market by the water and don't recall seeing any babushka nesting dolls. Most of the souvenirs I looked at were reindeer related (but I opted not to buy any). There may be a possibility near the Russian Orthodox church (easy walking from the center).
The TI downtown is one of the best I've visited, both friendly and informative. Ask them. If there's a place to buy a doll, they can probably point you to it.
Brad
Gainesville, VA 5/21/13
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RE: April in Paris - A Trip Report
I just loved your photos! Thank you for sharing. I have been to Paris a few times and it was great to see just wonderful photos. If you go back to Europe, please share your next set of photos. I looked up your camera on the web and will write down the information if I ever buy another camera. It would be my first choice. I am going to study your photos to see if I can understand how you took them and improve upon my taking photos. I am going to Istanbul and Rome this year and hope to take some good photos, but not as good as yours!
Again, amazing photos and thank you for sharing.
ann
staten island, new york usa 5/21/13
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RE: The Larmer Tree Festival- Tollard Royal Wiltshire
Nellie, we went to the Larmer Tree site last September for a wood fair. It's not the easiest place to get to, even if you have a car, and by public transport the main challenge is the last 20 miles from Salisbury. You have probably seen the page on the festival website which explains your options. Scroll down to the heading 'Transport':
http://larmertreefestival.co.uk/info/travel-and-arrival/
Salisbury has direct trains from London and is on the line from Southampton to Bath and Bristol. Use the journey planner on www.nationalrail.co.uk to see train times and prices.
If I needed to get from the Larmer Tree to Paris I think I would fly from Southampton (get the train from Salisbury. There is a direct Romsey/Chandlers Ford/Eastleigh service which stops at Southampton Airport Parkway, or change at Southampton Central). Destinations from Southampton airport can be seen here:
http://www.southamptonairport.com/flight-information/destinations-and-airlines
Alternatively, if you want to go to Stonehenge then you could do a tour from Salisbury, and if you then went to Bath it may be more convenient to fly from Bristol to Paris:
http://www.bristolairport.co.uk/flights-from-bristol.aspx
Kevin
Ringwood, Hampshire UK 5/21/13
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RE: Why did my iPhone and laptop chargers die?
Not to pile on but there is one other very small possibility. We learned this from practical experience. A couple of years ago, son lost charger for his apple computer. Went on Amazon and bought the cheapest charger he could find. It was NOT dual voltage but didn't discover that until we were leaving. It you are working with original equipment everything will be dual voltage but if you have an after market charge it might not be so check the plug for imput.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Do wineries take credit cards north of Avignon France?
Can't speak for Avignon, but in Burgundy they were happy to accept credit cards.
Sam
Green Bay 5/21/13
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RE: transport
Car rental will involve an expensive international drop charge. Train will involve at least 3 changes to get to the town of Como. Como is a big lake with 3 major arms which will effect your train route. The best route to Como would involve changes at Interlaken Ost, Luzern, and Lugano. There is also a route with changes at Interlaken Ost, Spiez and Milan. You will want to take this route if you are going to Varenna. You can possibly get a discount with advance purchase.
Sam
Green Bay 5/21/13
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RE: Greek ferry!
Try your question on tripadvisor.com, Mykonos forum. As the page pops up there is a list of questions about ferries to and from Mykonos.
George
Independence, KS USA 5/21/13
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RE: Rome to Castiglioncello:
Without checking schedules, probably not as you would need to go into Rome first. Assume you can get from Rome to Castig... Have you checked the trenitalia.com schedules. Or use bahn.de for just routing/scheduling info.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Transportation from Paris to Normandy
We always fetch our rental car right across the street from the Caen rail station where there are at least 3 rental agencies. We prefer AutoEurope, based in Maine, and easy to contact prior to your trip. We sometimes take the ferry from Portsmouth over to Ouistreham then take the bus into Caen, or the train from Paris. We like the hassle free pickup and return of our rental car at Caen because we avoid Paris traffic. Too, returning Parisians clog the roads on Sunday afternoons making returning a rental to CDG or Nord nightmarish. The rental agencies at Caen are open late on Saturday and are so convenient to the train station, unlike in Bayeux. We drive the 15 miles to Bayeux.
George
Independence, KS USA 5/21/13
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RE: London pubs
"Ye Old Cheshire Cheese" is definitely worth a visit. It's well known and a little touristy, but it's also historic and old and fun to check out. Dinners are a bit pricer there than a typical pub, though. Just a block or two away is the "Old Bell Tavern" with a fantastic looking and affordable menu (we didn't eat there, though) and much more of a local vibe.
In Covent Garden the Lamb and Flag is a very welcoming pub with a great ion of beer on tap. I don't remember seeing food, though. There may have been a dining area upstairs?
Dirty Dick's is another sort of tourist pub that's also really entertaining.
In "The City", The Counting House is a beautiful old bank pub with good pies. Ditto for The Drawn and Quartered not far from the Tower of London.
My absolute favorite pub for history, ambiance, and cheap pub grub is Ye Olde Mitre. I would say it's a must. It's not TOO far from St. Pauls, although you'd still probably want to take the tube a stop or two to the nearest stop. It's a little tricky to find (hidden in an alley that opens up into an ancient courtyard). But utterly fantastic.
Sarah
Stuttgart Germany 5/21/13
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RE: wifi in italy
First, I would thank your husband and take it back for wifi only and spend the savings on wine in Italy - butm just personal opinion since I think 3G on an ipad is overkill. But it is nice. JUST MAKE ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN THAT THE 3G FUNCTION IS TURNED OFF or you will be paying for your Italy trip for the next five years. WIFI is everywhere and convenient especially in hotels, etc. so you function very well with the ipad on wifi. About the only reason to use 3G while moving about would be mapping functions.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Train trips in Europe
Yes and no. Check out www.seat61.com and most of your questions will be answered there. If not, come back here and rail experts (not me) can give you very detailed and very specific tips wherever you might be traveling by train.
George
Independence, KS USA 5/21/13
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RE: Umbrella and jacket needed?
Sure, all weather is typical. As my math teaching cousin says, "You leave the extremes to have an average." A rain jacket is always necessary. Our first trip to Rome ten years ago or so was in the first week of June and we followed conventional wisdom - "It is always hot in Rome." Took nothing of great warmth. It was so cold in Rome that for two nights the sidewalk cafes did not open the outdoor part. Same week one year later it is so hot that we are wondering why we bother with long sleeve and sweater clothing You have to be prepared for a range of weather that includes rain always.
We are just back (yesterday) from Rome, temps were very mild with one day of heavy rain for a couple of hours and couple days of light showers from time to time but it was mid May. We find to the small umbrella about the size of a fat hot dog to be very handy. Add little weight and take up min room.
If you have a rain jacket, make sure it is waterproof and not weather resistant which is a cop out phrase often used on nylon clothing to suggest it might shed water for a few min but will get wet in the end. A small attach hood is good also.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: Budget for a student in Copenhagen
I'm going to Copenhagen on Thursday for a few days and I'm worried about the cost as well. From what I understand (from a Danish friend I will be traveling with), drinking at bars and eating at sit down restaurants is quite expensive, but buying beers at a corner market and eating hot dogs and "ethnic" food like Doner Kebap is reasonable. Another option is self-catering (i.e. going to a grocery store and buying a picnic lunch). I'll share my own experience once I get back on Monday.
Sarah
Stuttgart Germany 5/21/13
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wifi in italy
Heading to Italy in less than a month. I will be staying for a bit under 40 days. I have gleaned so much from this forum. I am hoping for a bit more clarification in the cell phone/ipad arena.
I am planning on renting a cellomobile phone (ease learned from here). I was also planning to bring my ipad to use when free wifi was available. However, I became more confused when my husband gave me an ipad mini with 3g wifi capabilities last week for my birthday.
At first I thought it sounded great; smaller, able to access wifi anywhere. Then I started doing a bit more research. Last night verizon informed me of their overseas data plan. The woman said there was a $25 charge for each 100mg. She further explained that by saying basically that each time you were to google something or get on instagram, etc. there would be a $25 charge because these each took more than 100mg.
So I am planning to return this latest gift and bring my archaic ipad2.
Any suggestions?
Paige
Fredericksburg 5/21/13
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RE: Too much Tuscany wine?
Fighting a little jet lag at the moment. I know it was over when the little "bag" lady came begging in absolutely, bright white, clean tennis shoes. Ah!!!!! and the tight jeans !! What view - of the country side - that is.
Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 5/21/13
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transport
hi
we want to get from laterbrunnen switzerland to lake come italy one way as we will be fying out of italy. can we hire a car for 4 with luggage (lots) or get a train
billy
cape town 5/21/13
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RE: Just a reminder...
Kevin - something to look forward to. A Montalbano prequel series coming some time this year.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-21798954
Linda
Bromley, Kent, UK 5/21/13
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RE: Seville or Madrid
I forgot to add -
on the upper right-hand side of the trip advisor page is a list of top questions. That's where you'll find the train info.
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/21/13
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RE: Seville or Madrid
You need to register your credit card with a "secure" service. You can do it for both Visa and Mastercard cards. It only takes a minute or two online once you find the site. It adds one more layer of verification to transactions and you can't buy tickets on the Renfe site until you do so. That may be why you are having trouble.
If that doesn't work, go to Trip Advisor's Spain forums. There is a very long but very good explanation of the ins and outs of Renfe, including explanations of all the symbols and how to get the cheaper tickets.
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/21/13
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RE: Spain White hill town - Ronda
I found a lot more to see and do in Ronda than in Arcos. I'd allocate sightseeing time accordingly.
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/21/13
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RE: London 6 nights itinerary
Send him to the football and go with her to Windsor Castle for the day, including the Doll House.
I also think the Cotswold are too far, and with only 6 nights, I'd stay put in London. There is so much to see and do there, and you'll lose too much time if you try to change hotels.
I did a quick internet search for castle stays. The only one close to London (about 100 miles) is in Coventry. From the website, it looks like lots of fun. You can leave all your things in storage at your London hotel for one night, just take an overnight bag.
http://www.celticcastles.com/castles/coombe-abbey/
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/21/13
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RE: St. Petersburg
It's not non-Perestroika, it's quid pro quo and bureaucracy. The U.S. charges close to $200 for a visitor's visa to Russia, so Russia charges the same.
Israelis get on-the-spot free visas. I think some South Americans do too, since there seemed to be quite a few from our ship who also went through passport control without problems.
My friends and I were independent in St. P and loved everything. But don't regret the cost of the tour. Almost nothing is in English, so without a guide, you usually don't know what you're looking at. Try to join a small group - or put your own together - on cruise critic.
We spent hours at the Hermitage, took a canal cruise, and went to the Peterhof - got there just before the fountains started and enjoyed watching them go on, with the musical accompaniment. Then we toured the private apartments and were lucky enough to be invited to join a small private tour in English. We missed the inside of the Church of the Spilled Blood, but even the outside is a wow.
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/21/13
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RE: Need 1 more destination
Berlin?
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/21/13
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RE: Traveling with babies
Angela recently posted "Travel to Europe with a baby" on the General Europe forum, with a link to her lessons learned -
http://www.lifewithzachary.com/2013/05/05/mom-travel-reflections/
I can't help with the budget, but there's good advice on traveling with little persons.
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/21/13
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RE: airline security
I sometimes get caught because I forget things in my pockets, usually loose change or keys. In Berlin the personal scanner was so sensitive that the aluminum foil on my pill package set it off. Security was tighter there than anywhere else I've been.
I use a neck wallet for my passport and always have to take that off.
As for leaving stuff behind, just take your time getting all your things collected and put away before you leave the security check. Ignore anyone who is impatient. Last year I saw a woman leave her passport and all her hand luggage behind and head for the gate. I imagine she returned eventually. None of the security people paid any attention, and I only noticed when I saw her abandoned passport. I guess she thought everything would be waiting for her on the plane.
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/21/13
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Do wineries take credit cards north of Avignon France?
Hello! Do winneries take CREdit cards north of Avignon France?
Thanks! Lisa
Lisa
Boulder, CO USA 5/21/13
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RE: London 6 nights itinerary
A visit to a football game is an essential part of English culture. The Premier League season starts on 17th August although there will be friendly matches before the competitive season starts. The fixtures are announced on 19th June. If you are spending several days in London it would be best to try for tickets for one of the London teams. Tickets are not cheap and not particularly easy to obtain but there always seem to be lots of overseas visitors at the biggest London teams' grounds so there are ways of getting hold of them
I would head west towards Bath and the nearby countryside rather than the Cotswolds but that is only my preference.
David
Basingstoke England 5/21/13
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RE: To Rest or Not to Rest...
Even if you didn't have the physical limitations, I'd advise against going to Belgium. You'll lose half a day each way, days are very short in January anyway, and I don't think Bruges would be enjoyable without sunshine - and what are the chances of that in winter?
If you haven't done it yet, and are up to a couple of hours on your feet, take the Paris Walks chocolate tour. It's yummy and entertaining. There are stops at chocolatiers, if you tell your guide your limitation, she can probably arrange for a seat for you while she talks and you taste.
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/21/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
One place it's two months, another a few.
I'd enjoy pillar to pillar clockwise with a bit of head scratching approaching Syria. That'd save the best for last.
If I had to cut something, I'd invent a ferry that ran from Cartagena to Naples. If I needed another ferry, it'd go from Bari to Dubrovnik.
If I thought I might run out of time or money, I'd start at the south pillar and plod along counter-clockwise until it was time to quit.
This is one of the best questions I've seen. Can you carry an inflatable kayak on a bike, or fit a bike in a kayak? How many people would you meet if you just walked the shoreline and how long would that take? Darn!
Ed
Pensacola 5/21/13
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RE: To Rest or Not to Rest...
The St. Martin canal boat is nice on a good weather day.
The Marmottan Museum, the lower level is a must-see for Monet fans. It's generally not crowded and there is plenty of seating to view all the paintings. The collection spans his career; it's interesting to see the development.
The Louvre with a wheel chair is not a bad idea at all. And don't be embarrassed to get up and walk around and then return to it! In the evenings, chances are it will be next to empty.
An evening at the Opera. . . a concert at St. Chapelle . . .
Hot chocolate "a la ancienne" at Angelina's
Chani
Tel Aviv 5/21/13
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RE: Need 1 more destination
Hello Kris. I see that this trip is to Great Britain and Ireland and northern Europe. I recommend : Do not change any part in your first itinerary. For your four additional nights, travel in Norway. You could do the "Norway in a Nutshell" Fjord trip from Bergen to Oslo. Try to fly from Amsterdam to Bergen in Norway. And fly from Oslo to the U.S.A. Or, if traveling from Oslo to Walnut Creek would take a very long time, you might consider traveling in the opposite direction. Go from Walnut Creek to Oslo, and go to Dublin last, and fly from Dublin to the U.S.A.
Ron
southwest, Missouri U.S.A. 5/21/13
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RE: Barcelona long disance bus station
Ed is correct. This website (link below) clearly says the trip takes 3 hours:
El servicio es directo, sin paradas, con una duración aproximada de 3 horas entre Andorra y Barcelona...
(Translation: The service is direct, non-stop, with a duration of approximately 3 hours between Andorra and Barcelona...)
http://www.andorradirectbus.es/
Tip: Use Google Translate to understand the rest of the text.
Rose
NYC 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
Tom, I'm coming to the conclusion that it's less of a concern about being judged, and more about having perhaps read in several articles in recent years in mainstream 'Travel' sections in U.S. newspapers and magazines that Europeans believe stereotypes about all American tourists wearing shorts, fanny packs, baseball caps, and blinding white track shoes. The same articles have advised against these things as being 'un-European' or at least not well regarded by Europeans. The articles also imply (or state outright) that Americans who avoid these things might diminish their exposure to being targeted as 'rich' unaware American sitting ducks for petty theft.
My shield is up, folks, so save the tirade for a less beaten-to-death thread than this one, please. :)
Rose
NYC 5/21/13
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RE: Barcelona long disance bus station
How about a mis-read and it's three hours?
Still seems fast for a bus.
Ed
Pensacola 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
Not everyone "screams" tourist, or at any rate American. I've been to Europe many times, and for some reason the general assumption is often that I am German. To the best of my knowledge I don't have an ounce of German blood.
I do try to dress a little better in Paris than I would in some other cities. It takes no more effort to put on a pair of khakis and a button-down than it does a pair of jeans and a t-shirt.
Frank
Oxford, MS United States 5/21/13
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RE: Barcelona long disance bus station
It is humanely impossible to drive even a sports cars in 30 min between Barcelona and Andorra.
Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 5/21/13
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RE: Spain White hill town - Ronda
We drove from Malaga along the coast and headed up the A-397 to Ronda. Easy drive. As for Arcos, we were based in Ronda and made a day trip to Arcos. Again, no issues there. It's a nice region and I can't see any reason you'd need to do it in any sort of order.
Matt
Portland 5/21/13
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RE: Dressing like the French
I'm going out on a limb and I'm going to try to read into people's intentions. It seems the objection isn't so much to travelers trying to look presentable on vacation (more power to you if you can manage it), it's this persistent idea that if you only wear the right clothes, you can disguise the fact that you're a tourist. Hence the comments, "Wear what you want". If you're comfortable dressing to the 9's, you want to wear it, and you can manage the inconvenience of assembling such an outfit on vacation, then by all means do it. But if you want to wear comfortable shoes and slacks, or even shorts, rest assured that this is fine in all but the most expensive restaurants (and some places of worship in certain countries).
Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 5/21/13
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Rome to Castiglioncello:
Is it possible to take a train from DaVinci Airport to Castiglioncello?
Bob
Honolulu 5/21/13
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RE: Two months, a backpack, and the Mediterranean
Hello Craig. What sort of budget do you have for this trip ? A person could travel to many places in two months. At the top of the list of places, I would put ITALY, GREECE, TURKEY. In Turkey, American people like to go with a guided tour group. At Greece, I recommend going to two or three islands in the Cycladic islands group, plus Crete.
Ron
southwest, Missouri U.S.A. 5/21/13
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RE: Too much Tuscany wine?
Frank is correct about jeans and tennis shoes. They are everywhere! Colored tennis shoes are also very popular
I've been wearing my jeans almost everyday. We are still in Italy but head home Wed. I brought a cute dress I got at Gap and that's for hot days
You have permission to wear jeans and running/tennis shoes in Italy. You fit in perfectly
Ellen
Centennial, CO USA 5/21/13
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The Larmer Tree Festival- Tollard Royal Wiltshire
I'm staying on-site for 7 days at The Larmer Tree Festival campgrounds July 15-23-2013. My Holiday Ticket & lodging accomadations are paid, I figured that with having that secured I could possibly venture out to Paris & Venice for a couple of days. I have plans on seeing visiting Bath & Stonehenge as well. your travel tips will be helpul
Nellie
New Orleans, Louisiana USA 5/21/13
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