Rick Steves' Europe: Travelers Helpline

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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...

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RE: Flight-Frankfurt International to Vienna

It usually only takes about 45 min. to emerge into the main part of the airport after a flight lands. So, 4.5 hours is a heck of a lot of time to hang out at the airport, when basically a bit over 1 hour will do.

Once you land, all you have to do is go through passport control and pick up your bags and walk out. There is no customs like what you get in the US. Will your bags be forwarded on to Vienna or do you have to pick them up?

Jo
Frankfurt Germany 3/19/13
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RE: Which bag to bring to Paris?

Why not find a messenger bag that fits your camera and other items rather than one that is too small.

If you want to take a lot of photos, keeping your camera in a back pack is going to be a pain, plus, yes, you risk having it taken out of your back-pack. There are those that will tell you to fasten the zipper, etc. but imagine the procedure you have to go through, every time you want your camera. Take the back-pack off, remove the fastener, get the camera out, take your photo, put camera back in bag, fasten zipper, put back-pack on. While you take your photo, what do you do with the back pack? Put it at your feet, or put it back on? Do you leave it open while you take your photo or do you fasten it again. More time wasted, as this is a ton of putting on and taking off. If you leave it at your feet, this is when people get distracted and lose their possessions. With a messenger bag, you don't have to do any of that. You leave it on the whole time, just open it and get your camera out.

Frankly, if you take a lot of photos, consider just wearing your camera with a good camera strap.

Jo
Frankfurt Germany 3/19/13
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Louvre ticket for one day

We need to buy a one-day only ticket for the Louvre. Will they allow us to come and go during the day? We wanted to spend some time there in the morning, go elsewhere for lunch and then return for the late hours on Friday night. We weren't too thrilled with the food court last time.

Sandy
Palm Desert 3/19/13
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RE: Young Adult 2 week Trip

You have SIX places listed but only 10-14 days!!!!

Enjoying nightlife generally means you may not want to be up everyday at 7 getting to next destination.

Pare trip down to three places max..

Remember, two nights in one place is only one full day.. if a place isn't worth one full day is it really worth cramming it into a very tight schedule..

You are young and will get back to Europe again.

At your age, well frankly, I would skip Florence , at 23 I found it a bit boring, I enjoy it now, but when I was younger it was not my cuppa... perhaps it would be yours though.

Cinque Terra is five places, which one are you going to,, think about it, you have lots of wishes but its not as easy as you think to just get from one place to another, minimally it takes 1/2 a day, in your case some of your travels will take a bit more then a 1/2 a day. You don't want this holiday to be a tour of train stations and airports right.

I know, there is so much to see, its exciting.. can you make trip a bit longer, you already have to pay so much in airfare its worth it to make it a longer trip if you can.

pat
victoria Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Most comfy economy flights US-England

Sarah I do take something on the long hauls, but I just want to be sure you take it BEFORE your trip, like weeks or days before to make sure it "agrees " with you, you never want to take a sedative or sleep aid for the first time on a plane and find out you have a bad reaction to it!

I just say that because sometimes people go and get like just two, one for each flight, and then won't try it before hand.

pat
victoria Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Luggage storage in Warwick, England

Donald,

I am in a similar circumstance and I was wondering if you managed to find out how large the lockers are. The website says hand-luggage sized, did you manage to find any more specifics?

Thanks,

Christian

Christian
Vancouver, British Co Canada 3/19/13
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RE: book to read on my travels

Hello Carolyn. The book for you is THE GRAND TOUR : The European Adventure of a Continental Drifter. by Tim Moore. The writer Tim Moore is regarded as England's equivalent of the American writer Bill Bryson. In the year 2000, Tim Moore, a British citizen, age 37, traveled across Europe : France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Holland. He travelled a route that was written of in a book published in England in the year 1611. That book was written by Thomas Coryate. In that book he related his experience of traveling across Europe (walking, and riding a horse) in the year 1608. That book is acknowleged as being the first book about traveling as a tourist. And it inspired wealthy young men in England, in the 1700s, to travel across Europe. Thus began "The Grand Tour" for the purpose of persons becoming culturally enlightened. (That is what they said). Tim Moore wished for his tour to be Grand, so he bought an old Rolls Royce Silver Shadow car, and he wore a purple velvet suit in his trip. After spending money for buying that car, and spending money for repairs to that car, he did not have much money to spend at Europe. He slept in the car. The book is uneven, being a mixture of his witty rantings and factual and historical information, but the second half of the book is entertaining. This book is now available at www.Amazon.com. I read the book, several years ago. The first chapter in the book does not relate to Tim Moore's trip. In Tim Moore's book "THE GRAND TOUR ..." some of his words are obscure British slang words. If you wish for me to translate those words, you may send a Private Message to me.

Ron
southwest, Missouri U.S.A. 3/19/13
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RE: Travel Agent in Prague

Try Jay at JayWay Travel.com he specializes in travel arrangements in Prague. We've used him in Croatia and had a great trip.

Debbie
Gig Harbor, WA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Good walking shoes available in Canada for someone with Plantar fasciitis

If the cause of the plantar fasciitis was flat feet, then I second the above advice. Make an appointment with a podiatrist so you can have a set of custom orthotics made. I had severe plantar fasciitis several years ago, but since getting inserts made, I have experienced zero recurrences. As long as the inserts fit in the shoes, you can wear just about anything.

One important point about orthotics, though. You need to break them in over a period of about 1-2 weeks, and usually the pain increases while your feet adjust. So, make sure your feet have adjusted well before you travel.

Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 3/19/13
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RE: traveling with iPad

Good ideas so far. IConvert works for $$, temperature, milage, many more, not sure about offline data though .if going to france, sncf the train company has an app. I like a variety of books, so will have some purchased from ibook,free from my library or tuebl.ca. My last trip I discovered iTunes U, I found audio or av lectures o areas I was visiting, so nice to have useful info to listen too while washing out the clothes in the sink. I have some photography ones to play with too and apps to help learn the language you are visiting. N

Enjoy.

June
Edmonton, Alberta 3/19/13
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RE: Italy Eurail Pass

Most people who have posted on this site have recommended point to point train tickets as being much cheaper than a rail pass.
I would agree and found that I used the train a lot and still saved money over the cost of what I would have paid for a train pass (My trip was 3+ weeks).

Frances
San Diego, 3/19/13
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RE: vaporetto pass

The other islands I visited were : Murano, Burano, and the island with the cemetery on it (very interesting).
We also rode the Central canal for the Rick Steves book recommended tour of the central canal.
Loved them all - It was also nice to be able to hope on the vaporetti to get from one side of Venice to another - just for a change since we also walked
all over. I loved Venice from end to end and top to bottom.

Frances
San Diego, 3/19/13
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RE: home base for Verona, Venice

Thank you everyone for your helpful recommendations. I appreciate your time and energy to respond.
Nancy

Nancy
Yakima, wa 3/19/13
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RE: Most comfy economy flights US-England

Have a look at Air Canada. Flights may be shorter and frankly, they have the most comfortable seats I have ever experienced in Economy. See what city they fly to that is the closest to your town. The offer small commuter flights to their main cities like Toronto, Montreal, etc. We did this in Oct. since nothing flies to Col. Ohio, and we flew into Toronto from Frankfurt in just a bit over 8 hours, and then just had an hour+ flight to Columbus. Heck we even liked the food they served and the entertainment choices were an extra treat.

Jo
Frankfurt Germany 3/19/13
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Flight-Frankfurt International to Vienna

Having never been to Frankfurt International Airport, I wonder if someone can tell me whether or not a Condor Air flight arriving at 1 pm from Seattle gives us time to clear customs and then navigate the airport to make an Air Berlin flight departing at 5:25 pm for Vienna? It also seems to be much cheaper to buy a round-trip ticket and use only the front half rather than buying a one-way ticket. Thank you.

Mary
Stanwood, WA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Istanbul and Selcuk and food safety

Well, all I can say is that on a tour we took, nine of the twelve of us got sick at one time or another. What we had lasted several days and was pretty miserable. Since we got sick at different times, it seems reasonable to conclude that whatever the bug was, it was widespread. I would take the following precautions. Deal with water as if you were traveling in Mexico, not forgetting toothbrushing water. If you are staying at hotels where dinner buffets are part of the package, be very careful. I think stuff that sits around being kept warm, may be more of a hazard than fruits and salads. I'd also avoid mayonnaise or creamy dressings. Pack some imodium.

Rosalyn
Berkeley 3/19/13
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RE: Young Adult 2 week Trip

My idea is to head from Venice to Florence to Cinque Terre to Portofino to Genoa and then take a train or fly to Barcelona

Ian, This is too many stops in 10-14 days. Here's a suggested itinerary:
Venice - 3 nights (2 full days)
Florence - 3 nights
Cinque Terre - 3 nights, see Portofino on a daytrip. Portofino is very beautiful, very expensive
Rome - 4 nights (3 full dasy)

that's 13 nights... If you only have 10, drop one location. If you have 14, add a night wherever it most appeals to you. 1 or 2 night stops are a waste of even your youthful energy. You cannot see nor experience a place without stopping for a bit. If you find a club you like on the first night, you'll want to go back, for example, not only have the one night to play.

Get a good guidebook and plot out the things you want to see and experience in each location so you know how to use your time. And the advice you received above is right on: you lose at least 1/2 a day each time you change locations. At least!

Laurel
Rome, Italy 3/19/13
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RE: auto freindly hotel in florence

I need to know the following:
1. How much you want to spend
2. How far you want to be from the historical center (walking distance, under 15 min bus ride away, farther away) and if you plan to do out of town trips from that hotel or if you just want to see Florence during those two days.
3. Type of accommodations and amenities (Agriturismo, hotel, rooms in villa etc)
4. Approximate period of travel.

Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Are train reservations REALLY necessary? France & Italy Pass

THANKS EVERYONE!!!

I got everything sorted... and learned so many very valuable things along the way - thanks to all of YOU!

I booked a seat reservation from Paris to Lyon, then the regional train to St Gervais Bains & finally the bus to Chamonix! In the time frame I want too, praise Jesus!

In appreciation & extreme gratitude... to EVERYONE who posted,
Rachel
__________

Tim, thanks for that advice... I am going to look into that and simplify our traveling from Chamonix to Florence! I VERY MUCH appreciate it... you have no idea. Thank you.

Rachel
Fargo, ND USA 3/19/13
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RE: Cornwall

We prefer Virgin Atlantic - I believe they fly out of Chicago. We usually pay the extra for economy plus. However, I believe that VA has some seats towards the back of the airplane that are two across instead of three. If you can't get seats like that, consider two aisle seats across from each other. Way better than being the unlucky person in the middle seat.

Cynthia
Gig Harbor, Washington USA 3/19/13
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RE: Good walking shoes available in Canada for someone with Plantar fasciitis

If cost is an issue for you, I've had really good success with the $50 Scholl's s you can get in drug stores (at least in the US)... sold as Dr Scholl's Custom Fit Orthotic Insoles. In fact, they work better (and fit more readily in shoes) than the very expensive custom ones I had made.

Depending on when/where you're going, you might also consider hiking sandals. Chaco has the arch in the right place for me, but everyone's different; I can walk all day in them, for day after day, and have no pain.

And if you find shoes that are not painful, I wouldn't worry about finding others that "nicer looking". No one will remember or care what your shoes look like, but you'll remember the pain if you bring the wrong shoes. You'll probably find you need to walk more than you considered possible; bring the shoes that will keep you comfortable.

One other thing: have you been cautioned not to walk around barefoot? I was doing that because shoes hurt, but it just makes it worse. I keep the cheap flip flops around the house and if I'm not wearing shoes I'm wearing the flip flops. It really makes a difference. A few days without them, I start to feel some pain.

Sherry
San Jose, CA 3/19/13
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RE: help with Venice trip

Vicky, that much time in Venice is a great decision; I would recommend you not be discouraged from staying that long. I spent a week on my first trip, and even longer the next time. In Sept, I've never detected any smell; I wouldn't spend a lot of time worrying about that. Mosquitos might be more of an issue in July than smell, since window screens and air conditoning are not common; I'd suggest being prepared for that instead. Smaller islands in the lagoon offer some very enjoyable experiences and variety: Torcello has only a handful of residents but the oldest church on the lagoon, with great mosaic work; San Lazarre is occupied by an Armenian Catholic monastery with an amazing library of rare books, as well as some really nice views (one vaporetto a day is met by a monk who will show you around); there's a Franciscan friary occupying one island that's accessible only by private boat; some of my favorite experiences were wandering around tiny, almost deserted islands. Padua is hardly off the beaten track, but it is a very enjoyable day trip with the Giotto frescos, Basilica of St Anthony, its very early univerity, good marketplace, etc. And if you search this site, you'll find a variety of other suggestions for day trips from Venice.

Sherry
San Jose, CA 3/19/13
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Which bag to bring to Paris?

I have 2 bags that I need to pick from to bring.

I wanted to bring this one more: http://www.oakley.com/women/a/79/de/BAh7CWkKIgo2MDB4MGkLbCsHtAfKUGkHaQtpCGkDYiYD.jpg

It holds more things in it, and in order to get into the main compartment, you need to unbuckle 3 buckles and a zipper. I felt that security wise, it's pretty good. However, I've been reading things against bringing a backpack. This one is on the small side.

I also have this, it can fit my camera, and it's a purse type cross body bag that may be more suitable to Paris 'conditions' - http://www.amazon.com/Manhattan-Portage-Urban-Bag-Black/dp/B001AM4OWC/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

However its much smaller and I can basically fit my camera and thats about it.

Thoughts?

I'm pretty vigilant and not oblivious to things around me. I definitely prefer the backpack but if it's a bigger chance for theft, I don't want to risk it. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated

Arielle
Buffalo, NY United States 3/19/13
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Port of Southampton to Central London?

We are disembarking a cruise ship in Southampton and going to a hotel near Oxford Circus tube station.
What is the most convenient way to go. How much? Where and when to purchase tickets?

Al
Pitt Meadows 3/19/13
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Scotland

We are traveling to Scotland on June 9-25. We will spend 3 nites in Edinburg, then rent a car and go to Inverness, Aberdeen and Pitlochry and then a week in Falkland at a house, then one nite in Edinburg to fly home.

Any advice, suggestions or recommendations would be most helpful. I am booking B&B's tomorrow.

Thanks.

Lea
Seattle 3/19/13
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RE: vaporetto pass

well, the vaporetto is the only way to get to the other islands, like Giudecca or Murano. Hard to walk there!

Sasha
Bainbridge Island 3/19/13
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RE: Barcelona: Another hotel near the Hotel Arts?

The Pullman Barcelona Skipper is a 5-star hotel very close to Hotel Arts, for much less (about $230 a night in June on booking.com)

Sasha
Bainbridge Island 3/19/13
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RE: vaporetto pass

Since you'll have several days, you might want to explore some of the less commonly visited islands, and a pass makes that feasible. You might want to search internet for islands of the Venitian lagoon and see if any of them appeal to you. Exploring some of the islands provided some favorite memories.

Sherry
San Jose, CA 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

Just purchased two Pacsafe Anti Theft shoulder bags, one for me (the CitySafe 200) and one for my husband (the Metrosafe 200). Very reasonably priced at Wayfair.com (around $60 each and free shipping).

http://pacsafe.com/www/index.php?_room=3&activity_id=182

Betty
Missouri City 3/19/13
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RE: US dollars converting to Euros in Paris

When it comes to currency remember that "exchange" means you LOOSE money. In thirty years of going to Europe we have done every thing you can imagine in paying our bills. Three things work. Buy some Euros in the US for the start of the trip. Get Euros while in Europe from an ATM with a debit card. For credit card use a CapitalOne VISA to avoid the fees of 2 to 4% on each and every transaction (% varies with each credit card company). Keep a few dollars in your pocket/purse for returning back through US airports. Don, San Antonio

DH
San Antonio, TX USA 3/19/13
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RE: US dollars converting to Euros in Paris

DH
San Antonio, TX USA 3/19/13
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RE: How dangerous is Paris driving

I would only get to your out of the city center hotel and then forget the car. Paris streets are for cab drivers and the very well versed. The distraction of driving robs you of what you came to see. Paris metro and Paris buses let you enjoy the city and the people. In my humble opinion Paris' street plan looks some one dropped a pound of raw spagetti and used that as their street plan. Have to Paris three times, about four weeks total. Don. San Antonio

DH
San Antonio, TX USA 3/19/13
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RE: How dangerous is Paris driving

DH
San Antonio, TX USA 3/19/13
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RE: train from interlaken to monterosso

Melissa,

You can check departure times and other details using the bahn.de or sbb.ch websites. I did that trip in the reverse direction a few months ago, and it's going to take the better part of a full travel day.

The easiest trip is a departure from Interlaken Ost at 07:29, arriving Monterosso at 15:02 (time 7H:33M, 2 changes at Spiez and Milano Centrale, reservations compulsory on last two legs). Some of the other trains are about half an hour shorter but have 3 or 4 changes, so you'll need to consider that.

Happy travels!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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Avoiding high pressure sales stops on private tours in Turkey

My wife and I are in the process of booking a private tour of Ephesus that will meet us at our cruise ship in Kusadasi. The group will be just the two of us for a full day tour. It looks like most of the tours, even the private tours seem to stop at either a carpet shop/school and/or a leather factory where there is the obvious high pressure sales pitch along with your "free lunch". Whats the best tactic to ensure that we spend our time at the sites and not shopping. Do you tell the guide up front? Do you tell the tour operator when you book online? I'm even willing to buy my guide lunch if they take us to great local, non-touristy restaurant. Any suggestions?

Marcus
Birmenstorf Switzerland 3/19/13
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Prebook train Zagreb to Split?

We will be traveling by train from Zagreb to Split in May. We would like to take #523 departing at 12:45. Can we just buy the tickets at the station that day or do we have to prebook? The price on RailEurope is considerably higher compared to the listed price on croation train site, www.hznet.hr however there isn't a way to book online at that site.

The same question goes for train travel between Ljublijana and Zagreb, Train #415 departing 8:15 AM.

Thanks for your help.

Beverly
Spokane Valley, Washington United States 3/19/13
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RE: Madrid

For just two days I would follow Rick's book for hotels in central Madrid. We stayed at Holiday Inn Piramedes due to unique need to arrive by car and use it for few days where we had 1/4 mi. to freeway connection and great hotel parking. For mass transit the hotel offered access to light regional rail, metro, and bus stops just 30 feet from the front door of the hotel. Can't beat that.

DH
San Antonio, TX USA 3/19/13
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RE: Most comfy economy flights US-England

Thanks for the advice so far.
The step up on BA (Economy Plus, on their website) was twice the price as Economy. And I'm flying with my father, so any bump in price is X 2.
I think I will take Ambien or something. I never have but this time I definitely will. The worst is the air quality on planes and I can't change that. Yes, the seats are concave--I totally agree--they pitch your head forward. What's up with that...it doesn't help you expand your lungs or stretch at all!
I'm looking for shortest or shorter intercontinental flight time, so at least it's over faster. I don't care about extra connections to get to the east coast--at least I can move freely (!) and it's probably healthier than sitting on a direct flight for a longer period of time.
If anyone has firm advice on airlines, I'm still looking.

Thanks!
Sarah

Sarah
Milwaukee, WI 3/19/13
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RE: Confused again about trains in Italy

Terry,

You don't HAVE to "go north to go south". Taking the direct train I mentioned in my earlier reply will get you there just the same, but will take slightly longer.

The main criteria in this case is how long you want to spend on the trip. If you'd rather get there as quickly as possible, then the Freccia train from Florence is the best option.

Cheers!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Europe in Fall. Start with Norway or Scotland/Ireland?

We are thinking then to start in Ireland/Scotland and head to Norway in mid/sept. then head S to Germany, Austria, N Italy, France. Hopefully this will give us the least potential for freezing. We have been living in HOT Asia for almost 2 yrs.

Sherrie
Penang, Pinang Malaysia 3/19/13
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book to read on my travels

I'm looking for a book to read on my travels ... ideally a memoir that covers two or more countries - I am not looking for a single country book (France, Italy, etc.) but basically a book about someone travelling through Europe. I can't seem to find much ...

I'm not opposed to an anthology, but would prefer a Europe focus.

I have read Neither Here Nor There by Bill Bryson, and am looking for something similar.

Thank you!

Carolyn
Toronto, ON Canada 3/19/13
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Hotel Recomendation- Hotel Genova Sestri Levante

I'm looking for a hotel in Sestri Levante. After reading some reviews on other sites I found Hotel Genova. Has anyone stayed there and have input. If anyone has other hotel recomendations I would really appreciate it. Thanks for everyone's help.

lisa
Pleasanton 3/19/13
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RE: train from interlaken to monterosso

Use SBB to buy a ticket. 117 CHF full fare or 68 CHF non refundable non changeable.
http://www.sbb.ch/en/home.html

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: Italy Eurail Pass

Rabin,

For the very few trips you'll be doing, I very much doubt that a Railpass would be the most cost effective method.

As the previous reply mentioned, when riding on the premium trains such as the Freccia high speed, you MUST have a reservation which is specific to each train and departure time. Even with a Railpass, if you're caught without a valid reservation, you'll likely be fined on the spot and it's not cheap! Fines start at €50 pp. When using P-P tickets, the reservation is included with the ticket.

Happy travels!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Most comfy economy flights US-England

Honestly Sarah, I basically agree with Tim, hellish but neccesary to get to Europe .
What you could do is look at the Economy plus options, they are nothing like 1st class or even Business class, but the seats are usually a tad wider and you get a few more inches of legroom, price out the economy plus on a few airlines .

If spending more is not an option, I suggest drugs, pillows, and earplugs. I also take TWO of those blow up pillows, one for neck and one I underinflate and put in the small of my back , airline seats are so stupidly concave!

pat
victoria Canada 3/19/13
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RE: traveling with iPad

I don't think any of RS apps need to use wi-fi. I always print up a larger map of his walks as the one in the book is a bit small.

You should also email your iPad mini a copy of all your travel arrangements, and be sure to include emergency telephone numbers to your credit card company. airlines etc.

Sandy
Palm Desert 3/19/13
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RE: Austrian Christmas markets

Don't tell the Germans, but Austria does a bang up Christmas! We've been to Austria several times in December – as mentioned, Vienna has a number of markets. I think the one at City Hall and Schonbrunn Palace are the most popular. Salzburg is very nice – all of the spice and dried flower bouquets add a wonderful scent to the place. Styr is another place often mentioned as having a great market. We were there December 23rd and 24th one year, really enjoyed everything, then found out we had gone to the "wrong" market, not the "best" one. Hate to be a nay-sayer on Innsbruck, but again a larger city with a variety of markets, none "wowed" me. I did try fried dough stuffed with sauerkraut for the first time. Also a number of the surrounding villages have processions, live mangers, etc. Hall is just down the road from Innsbruck so you could certainly do both.

Kurt
Nassau 3/19/13
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RE: Tep wireless

Christi,

There was another post here recently from someone that was interested in TEP Wireless. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to offer any suggestions as TEP is not available in Canada.

The concept of renting and then having to return it seems like a lot of trouble just for Wi-Fi access. Most hotels these days provide free Wi-Fi (or for a small charge), so I'm not sure why I would need something like TEP. For very occasional internet access when away from Wi-Fi, using a Smartphone may cost about the same.

Everyone's needs are different, so you'll have to decide if it will work for you.

Good luck and happy travels!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Places to stay in the Genoa area with Waterfront view

Thank you for your reply. My husband has family there but were not in contact with them. We may try to communicate with them before we leave. I have been looking at Sestri Levante, have you stayed there before?

lisa
Pleasanton 3/19/13
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RE: Italy Eurail Pass

Hi Rabin. The rail pass for Italy is more expensive and more of a hassle. Just buy individual tix. See trenitalia.com for schedules and prices. For stations use roma termini and firenze SMN. For any regional trains do NOT buy online, buy when there. For Rome to Florence, you can buy online if willing to lock in to an exact date and time; otherwise just buy when there; you will pay the 'base' price. Enjoy your trip!

Bob
Minneapolis 3/19/13
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RE: Europe for $4000?

Anna, if budget is a concern, I suggest you rethink trip. Every time you move it costs money, and time.
Kids that age , 14 days in different hotel rooms every 2-4 days, makes for cranky kids for most of us, especially the one year old who is too young to understand the constant change of food and beds..

For me, with kids your age, I would do one of these two plans:

Fly into London, one week in a rented apartment, perhaps a daytrip or two, I like Bath and Hampton Court.
Then Eurostar to Paris, one week in apartment there, tons to see.Fly home from Paris.

OR, I would do same, but instead of Paris I would look at Easyjet flights to Rome and spend the second week there. Fly home from Rome.

Switzerland is out of the way and very very expensive.

pat
victoria Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Good walking shoes available in Canada for someone with Plantar fasciitis

Shelley,

I had to deal with that situation several years ago, and I doubt that stretches and physio will solve the problem completely (especially while travelling).

I would highly recommend making an appointment with a good Podiatrist straight away (perhaps one in Sherwood Park if there are none locally). The solution that worked best for me was custom molded carbon fibre orthotic in-serts, which I use in whichever pair of shoes I'm wearing. I've done extensive walking in Europe since I started using them, and not even a twinge of pain.

I also have a pair of orthotic Sandals that are manufactured by a local shoe maker here that specializes in medical footwear. I had those before the in-serts and wear them around the house. The day I bought the Sandals, I was suffering a lot of pain. An hour after wearing them, the pain was gone and I haven't had a problem since.

There's a bit of a story about how I arrived at this solution, but that's a bit lengthy.

Good luck!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Europe in Fall. Start with Norway or Scotland/Ireland?

I've been in Scotland the middle two week of September and had a great trip. On the other hand, the heather is in bloom middle to the end of August. By September the Heather is fading.

In Scotland, I suspect Ireland, you just have to always be prepared for rain.

Pam

Pamela
New York City (formerly Madison), NY USA 3/19/13
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RE: frankfurt to vienna: drive or train?

If you just want to get to Vienna, there are ICE connections every couple of hours. Most of them are direct and take less than 7 hours (faster than driving, not counting time to rent car). With sufficient advance purchase, fares are as low as 39€/person (compared to over 90€, just for fuel and tolls, with a hatchback).

Lee
Lakewood, Colorado 3/19/13
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RE: Hotels Paris

Gordon, there are always rooms in Paris, thousands of hotels, BUT , to get a good room, at a decent price, in a great area, well that takes booking as far in advance as you can. I always book soon as my flights are booked, but I never take the discounted rate some hotels offer for paying in advance, since they are completely non refundable if you cancel, so I book hotels with decent cancellation policies. The reason I do this is the old "bird in the hand" thing, I get a hotel I am happy with, but I still look at forums and other options , more then once I have cancelled and rebooked with another hotel ,, not last minute though, don't mean that, but since I often book 6 or more months in advance I have lots of time to see some other suggestions and research them.

BTW Early October is still a very busy season for hotels, its not really the tourists so much, but its a peak time for business travel, trade shows, the end of fashion season etc. So start looking!

pat
victoria Canada 3/19/13
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Istanbul and Selcuk and food safety

How careful do we need to be about food safety. The doctor at our travel health clinic advised caution when eating fruits, salads etc. Is this really a problem in high-traffic areas like Istanbul and Selcuk?

Maureen
Victoria 3/19/13
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RE: Italy Eurail Pass

Your looking at maybe 100 Euro in train tickets if you buy carefully. Why do you want to dump a bunch of money on a rail pass?

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: Tickets for the Alhambra

Tickets to Alhambra. Geeeez for a bucket list top 10 site it has the organization and lack of helpful signs to discourage the most ardent travelers. When you go you will meet many people who are lost and missed their entrance or their entry times. So to make it easier buy your ticket on line in the states. Your ticket is not a ticket but just a ticket to get a ticket. What the pre-ticket does is secure you the time and date to enter. Where to get the real and final ticket at the A. is not clearly marked. There are many ques. Most unmarked. So with this confusion coming your way arrive an hour early. I cannot stress this too strongly. I would suggest arriving and departing by taxi as the lines can be long and the parking lots will be full. You can only enter the A. at specific times - another reason to be early. Once in the A. you are not really at the entry gate. The staff is about as helpful as a 2 on a scale of 10. All this is coming from someone familiar with and comfortable with Spanish. NOW HERE IS THE GOOD PART. THE A. IS HEAVEN. IT IS DELIGHTFUL BEYOND DESCRIPTION. BECAUSE IT IS SO WONDERFUL. DO NOT BE LATE AND DO NO RUN THE RISK OF MISSING YOUR ENTRY TIME OR GETTING LOST. Enjoy!!!!! Would I go back - in a heart beat. Don - San Antonio

DH
San Antonio, TX USA 3/19/13
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RE: Tickets for the Alhambra

DH
San Antonio, TX USA 3/19/13
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RE: auto freindly hotel in florence

If you want to be closer to the city center than suggested above, take a look at Hotel David. It has been the top-rated hotel in Florence on Tripadvisor for at leat two years now. It is on the south side of the Arno, 1.5 km from the city center, and outside the ZTL. They offer free parking to guests.

Sasha
Bainbridge Island 3/19/13
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RE: Italy Eurail Pass

Rabin, for Rome to Florence, you will need to pay a supplemental fee of 10Euro to ride the high-speed Frecci train. Seat reservations come with payment of the supplemental fee. You just can get onto the train.

For Florence to Pisa, almost all trains are Regionale-class trains. Your pass will get you on these trains. But why a pass? The fare is only about 12Euro one way.

From Rome to Pompei, you are again subject to the 10Euro supplemental fee both ways from Rome to Naples and from Naples back to Rome. That's an extra 20Euro. For the journey from Naples to Pompei, this will be on the private Circumvesuviana train. They don't accept the Eurail pass. Fare is about 3Euro each way so it's really cheap.

Larry
Elk Grove, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Backpack for 7 year old for a 5 week trip?

Maxine, most 7 yr olds can't carry enough weight to make a backpack very practical, just their toys and a few things. I took an RS family tour once, and everyone HAS to handle their own luggage, and their was a 7 yr old on our tour. She had a small rolling bag and did fine with it, normally the tours suggests kids be a bit older but the parents knew she could handle the pace, and she most definitely did, and she could handle her own bag. She only needed help carrying it up stairs, so if you have a backpack you will have your hands free to help her.
Just make sure the bag you get her is not a junky kiddie type( you know sort of play suitcases with cartoon characters on them) , it has to have good wheels on it so get a decent one.. shouldn't cost much. My 11 yr olds suitcase cost me about 75 bucks and shes 16 now and still using it. Its small, about 21 inches but it was and is enough.

pat
victoria Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Packing with Plaastic

Thanks for all the great tips. I have been busy gardening during
Our beautiful spring. Weather and now it is time to pack. I have
used most of these tips at one time or another and I frequently
use recycled linen containers that contained blankets or sheets..
really handy. This trip I am planning to take a couple of linen
outfits and wanted to prevent creases. I can get my formal wear
in a a couple pf one gallon zip lock bags! Thanks again for these
Helpful suggestions.

Paula
Arlington, TX USA 3/19/13
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frankfurt to vienna: drive or train?

What is recommended? Renting A car in Frankfurt & driving to Vienna or taking a train? If driving, I'd rather not be on the highway the whole time. Any ideas?

Deborah
Shelburne, VERMONT United States 3/19/13
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RE: Cornwall

Another question to those who've replied to my previous questions:
Any advice on comfortable overseas flights in Economy--US to London...I'm looking at flights with American, United, Delta, and British Airways right now at similar prices, though I noticed that BA flights seem to jump up in price faster.

Are economy seats up to chance--has anyone had reliable experience --or more than one flight-- with carriers that they liked...

Thanks!

Sarah

Sarah
Milwaukee, WI 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Paris to Interlaken

Thanks for everyone's replys. I did some more research and saw someone mention using a Capital One card because there wasn't a foreign transaction fee. Don't know if that's true but after trying a Visa and an AMEX both unsuccessfully, I tried a Capital One card and it worked.

Lori
The Woodlands, TX US 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

Carry-on
- passport
- credit/debit cards
- any medicines you know you'll need during the trip - bring at least a few extra days worth since you never know when something might delay your flight (ie Iceland volcano in 2010)
- change of clothes for at least one day, preferably two - don't forget sleepwear!
- anything valuable - electronics, jewelry, sentimental items
- anything you'll need in the first 24-48 hours of your trip - ie - if you're arriving in Siberia in winter, bring your snow boots onboard with you

Either carry-on or checked as space allows
- first aid kit - tailor to what you might want/need but some ideas are bandaids, neosporin, disinfecting towelettes, tylenol, dayquil/nyquil, otc sleep aid, anti-diarrheal - you can find all of these things (or their equivalents) in Europe, but I've found that the last thing you want to do when you're not feeling well is to try to find a pharmacy and then try to explain what you need when the product may be called something different or not exist in the exact same form

I'm not sure tweezers would help with a stuck ATM card as I think it usually pulls it further in if it eats the card. When the ATM ate my debit card in Germany, I had to come back the next day and get it from the bank since they only emptied it once a day. Wasn't a problem for me to stop by again, so I didn't push the issue.

Sarah
Canada, eh 3/19/13
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RE: auto freindly hotel in florence

Alberto La Foresta, an old convent up in the hills to the south.

Drive the car down the hill, park in the station lot, and take a half-hour train ride into Florence.

Ed
Pensacola 3/19/13
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RE: Most comfy economy flights US-England

I think economy airline travel in general these days is a resounding hellish experience no matter who you choose. That's just the bottom line. Take a good book, a neck pillow and noise-cancelling headphones and try to make the best of it...it's not going to be fun.

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: S-Bahn in Berlin

Which begs the question, why would you burn a precious Eurorail pass day on riding an iexpensive local train, unless its part of a full days train trip.

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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Italy Eurail Pass

Hi-
We are planning to visit Italy in a couple weeks and were looking at buying the Italy Eurail pass. We were wondering if this pass would allow us to take the trains to the following cities... (or if we needed different train tickets for those destinations)
-rome to florence
-florence to pisa
-rome to pompeii
Thank you in advance for your help! (:

Rabin
San Francisco 3/19/13
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RE: vaporetto pass

As many times as I've been to Venice I've only ever been on the vaporetto on my very first trip. Other than that, I've never had a need for them. Just walk wherever you want to go. It's WAYYYY cheaper and more fun.

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Train, Vienna to Krakow,day-time only

I probably should not chime in as Vienna isnt at the top of my favorites list and Ive never made it to Krakow. I have been trying for years but Krakow is one of those "you cant get there from here" places no matter where you are coming from (except mayb Warsaw). And, the very recent history of Krakow bothers me as well. I have gotten within a few kilometers a few times and am doing that again in April but just havent made the commitment to spend the time yet. Having said all that have you looked into bus service? Yes, bus. There are some very nice bus lines that have all the comfort of a train if not more and they tend to be a little faster on some routes. From Budapest it would be Orangeways, but I dont know about from Vienna. Another choice of course is air by way of Warsaw. 58

James
Frisco 3/19/13
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RE: auto freindly hotel in florence

Is there a reason you can't just drop the car in Florence and train to Venice?

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Young Adult 2 week Trip

During the regular school year Florence has a student population (I believe) of @75,000. When I was there in May one year visiting a niece who was doing a "Maymester" there were lots of clubs and fun places for people your age. Can't believe they'd all be closed during the summer months. Beware, though, Italians know how to "nurse a drink" and frown upon the American students who imbibe too much!

I'd stick to Italy, IMHO. Rome has so many sites, so many things to do! Trastavere (neighborhood in Rome) is an especially young area, with lots of walking around, music, and vibe. If I were your age, I'd definitely go there.

Why not save Barcelona for another trip? Spain is lovely, I've been there too, but Italy is my favorite! Both countries are worth your full attention on separate trips.

donna
roswell, ga usa 3/19/13
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Italy Eurail Pass

Hi-

We are planning to visit Italy in a couple weeks and were looking at buying the Italy Eurail pass. We were wondering if this pass would allow us to take the trains to the following cities... (or if we needed different train tickets for those destinations)
-rome to florence
-florence to pisa
-rome to pompeii

Thank you in advance for your help! (:

Rabin
San Francisco 3/19/13
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RE: Confused again about trains in Italy

Sam, I did look at the German rail site but did not see the route you mentioned. I thought the high speed trains were non stop....the detail button on the wite did not indicate any stations in between. I'm glad people verified that. I saw some regional trains and their times were upper three to four hours range. I thought I was missing something, but evidentally was not. If we have to go north to go south, well, when in Rome.....

Terry
Rochelle, IL 3/19/13
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RE: S-Bahn in Berlin

Hi,

Yes, it says so in the accompanying literature when you receive the Pass. Not just S-Bahn in Berlin but any one of them, Dresden, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Düsseldorf, etc.

Fred
San Francisco 3/19/13
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Most comfy economy flights US-England

Hi,
I'm looking for advice on airlines for flying from US to England, ECONOMY. I flew BA once and it was fine. I'm interested in seat comfort primarily, and perhaps credit for cancelled trip policy; this is because my father had to cancel a trip a couple years ago and BA credit policy was useless and he couldn't even get credit for a future flight. ( I don't know if he had purchased trip insurance however I doubt it.)
It's hard to judge personal reviews online and I don't know if there is a clear winner. The site that RS recommended, Inside Trip, is not workingI only got on enough to see that Iberia, BA, and Lufthansa were rated highly, at least for the flights I was looking at==but I saw some horrible reviews of Iberia. I've not been able to access Inside Trip again at all.
Should I look at the type of plane versus the carrier... is it all the luck of the draw...is there any consensus on a reliable carrier....

Thanks!

Sarah

Sarah
Milwaukee, WI 3/19/13
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RE: Travel to France

The Vimy Ridge memorial is just north of Arras. Looks like a car would be handy to visit, or a taxi. Its about 170 miles from Beny-Sur-Mer.

https://maps.google.com/maps?q=50.379444,2.773611&ll=50.379627,2.774048&spn=0.318771,0.977783&t=m&z=10

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: Train Ticket in France

You're right - wouldn't have thought to uncheck direct!

George
Canada 3/19/13
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auto freindly hotel in florence

we are renting a car in orvieto and touring the hill towns. we plan to spend two nights in florence before dropping the car off in Venice. does anyone know of a hotel in florence that does not require driving into the city, where we can park the car and use public trnasportation in florence. Having been to Florence, i'm reluctant to drive there.

rich
lake park, georgia usa 3/19/13
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RE: Train Ticket in France

Ray, yes there are direct trains but not at the time I'd like.

Tom
Oak Brook, IL 3/19/13
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RE: Backpack for 7 year old for a 5 week trip?

We bought Rick's classic convertable bags for our kids (almost 20 years ago). They did not struggle with them at all. Just load them completely full. Or get her a small rolling bag.

Toni
Charlotte, NC USA 3/19/13
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RE: Train Ticket in France

hi,

you can p/u the tickets at one of the machines using a code giving to you at the time of purchse.

Or you can do an e-ticket. or do as you suggest.

just an fyi, there are direct trains from Bayeux to Paris. dont know what times tho. When i was there last march, my train was direct.

happy trails.

Ray
Portland, Oregon USA 3/19/13
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RE: Train Ticket in France

George,

I think it is there. Perhaps you didn't 'uncheck' the direct option. This trip has an 11 minute transfer in Caen and is not a direct train

Tom
Oak Brook, IL 3/19/13
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RE: Making TGV reservations...without using raileurope.com. HELP!

Jeanine - don't worry, you didn't offend anyone!!! Booking train tickets online can be nerve wracking, so it's a good thing to ask for help.

I hope everything works out!

Dawn
Denver, CO 3/19/13
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train from interlaken to monterosso

Hello! My husband and I will be in Europe for the first time this summer. I have been able to navigate most of our transportation with help from the helpline. One part of our journey I am not quite sure about. What is the best way to travel from Interlaken to Monterosso? Where should I buy this tickt?
We have set travel dates and will not have a railpass. Thanks in advance!

Melissa
Lubbock, TX 3/19/13
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Backpack for 7 year old for a 5 week trip?

I am traveling for 5 weeks with my 7 year old daughter and planning on traveling light. I am going to buy one of Rick's Classic travel backpacks.

Any suggestions for what I should get for my daughter? Is there a great kids travel backpack out there?

Maxine
Louisville, CO USA 3/19/13
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Madrid

My husband and I are spending a couple of nights in Madrid in September. Are there any recommendations for a nice hotel at a good location for sightseeing?
Thank you in advance for any suggestions.

Bonnie

Bonnie
Geneva, IL 3/19/13
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RE: Transportation Verona to Ljubljuna

Hi!

Simplest way would be to take a GoOpti transfer to Ljubljana.
See http://www.goopti.com/index.php?option=com_transfer&lang=en&affid=7
for prices and booking.

Cheers
Greg

Greg
Ajdovscina 3/19/13
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RE: Dublin & vicinity with 13-year-old

I've been thoroughly enjoying all the responses and am looking up all your great suggestions. We're really excited about this trip!

Jim, the Paddywagon Tours look wonderful. There are so many different tour companies vying for my euros; it's nice to have a solid recommendation.

Kim

Kim
Rancho Cucamonga, California USA 3/19/13
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RE: traveling with iPad

Anywhere you have access to wifi, it works. Face time works well for staying in contact. If you don't have wifi access, then you are dependent on what you have stored on the hard drive.

Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 3/19/13
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RE: S-Bahn in Berlin

YES.

http://www.eurail.com/eurail-passes/pass-benefits/benefits-germany

George
Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Bath to York

Sincere thanks to all of you who responded to my question. I feel much more comfortable making train reservations now. Based on your input and checking out the national rail website, I am confident that I can book reasonably priced tickets between Bath and York via Bristol. Again - thank you, fellow travelers!

Patti
Fremont, Nebraska United States 3/19/13
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RE: Making TGV reservations...without using raileurope.com. HELP!

Certainly didn't mean to offend anyone. Seats are filling up and we just didn't have quite the answer we needed. Answers like the above are a little unnerving. Our apologies.

Jeanine
Saint Helens, OR USA 3/19/13
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RE: Train, Vienna to Krakow,day-time only

Unfortunately there is no nonstop train between Vienna and Krakow. There is one direct train but that one is an overnight train. Otherwise there are many connection with at least one change, also two or three changes. You stated you want to go during a day. I think the best would be the train leaving Vienna Meidling at 7:42 am with one change in Katowice arriving to Krakow Glowny (main station) at 3:22 pm. You can find all options at Deutsche Bahn website. Easy way to get to it: from Travelers Helpline look at the top of the page, click on Favorite Links and scroll to Deutsche Bahn.

Ilja
Seattle 3/19/13
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RE: Train Ticket in France

Tom, I was just on the tgv-europe.com website to duplicate your trip and I couldn't come up with your train departure time, itinerary, or pricing - just saying.

George
Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Train Ticket in France

Tom,
1) Yes.
2) That is strange because it's supposed to be -25% for 60 and over. Are you able to work directly on the SNCF website, which is in French? I wonder if you'd get better results.

Bets
Bloomington 3/19/13
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RE: Europe trip in May 2013

Hello Mat. A day trip to Salzburg from Vienna is possible, but I do not recommend doing that. A railroad train trip from Vienna to Salzburg is nearly three hours.

Ron
southwest, Missouri U.S.A. 3/19/13
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RE: Capadoccia tours

I too am surprised that the first poster had such a disappointing experience.
I have been to the Cappadocia area twice and I think it is charming with a
lot to see and do. The underground city, hot air balloons, shopping, hiking, etc. many nice restaurants..my favorite is Ziggy. My first trip was with 5
friends I met on the RS Istanbul in 7 Days Tour and we couldn't leave Turkey
due to ash from the volcano in Iceland. We had a wonderful two full day tour
and stayed at the Greek House. It was comfortable and the food was delicious.
I believe any hotel could arrange a tour after your arrival. I would suggest
you e-mail them regarding airport pickup and tour arrangements.

Paula
Arlington, TX USA 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Cardiff directly to Heathrow??

Have you looked into coaches (long distance buses)?

Try www.nationalexpress.com

I have not tried this yet but am hoping to travel directly to/from Heathrow to Wales and back from Salisbury this coming May and June. It looks like coaches go directly to Heathrow, and the travel time seems similar to train times.

Best of luck and have fun!!

Stacy
Connecticut 3/19/13
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RE: iPad and International SIM card

As far as the question about Telestial.......I used one of their SIM cards for my iPhone 5 on a recent trip to the US. It worked well and I had no real problems, though I didn't use it often. My only annoyance was that when it got down to $5 left on the card, they kept sending me a text every couple of hours reminding me to top up my card. I had no intention of topping it up, because I was only sending 2 or 3 texts a day and was flying home in a couple of days, and so the reminder texts kept coming. They were annoying and I had to turn off my text message sound to keep from getting "bing"ed every few hours.

Still, that wasn't annoying enough for me not to do business with them again. I just bought a Passport Lite card for my upcoming trip to Portugal :) It was delivered promptly, and I expect to have no serious problems with it (I intend it to be used primarily for data for some of my travel apps, and as an emergency phone).

Kia
Toronto, ON Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Train Ticket in France

Sandi,

You may have misread my note. Why would age 60+ be more expensive than an adult ages 26 to 59? I realize students get a break

Tom
Oak Brook, IL 3/19/13
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RE: rail passes

We are "very old'(83 and 70)travelers and ALWAYS recommend rail passes. Here's some reasons why:
While you may still need to stand in a line to get a reservation on a particular train, if pressed for time there's nothing wrong with jumping on a regional, or other non-reservation train at last minute. The freedom of traveling whereever you want within the area of your pass for "free" is a great bargin.
We were in Rome one time when President Bush was there. The city security was locked down so tight, we changed our reservation, found the charming town of Orvieto a rail-ride away and spent 2 lovely days.
Another time I got locked in a bathroom in Colmar (no joke - this really happened) and we missed our connection. Without the pass it would have cost us a premium to "get out of Dodge".
Anyway - just my 2 cents - I think you can be more flexible with a pass. You're probably spending a fortune anyway - so a few mor dollars for the ease of a pass is so worth it.
On the other hand - if you're under 26, travel 2nd class, tickets might be better. We're too old for the bargin proces. Happy Trails
Sandi

Sandi
Moreno Valley, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: France itinerary advice

By the time you clear the airport crap and get to the closest hotel, it's going to be eleven. Later if you pause to get a car.

Call it quits for the day. Stay at the airport and get the car the next morning.

It's a half hour to Versailles if you know exactly what you're doing. Bayeux is at least three hours away, Honfleurna bit less.

Ed
Pensacola 3/19/13
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Good walking shoes available in Canada for someone with Plantar fasciitis

Was just diagnosed with Plantar fasciitis, Anyone who has this knows how painful it is. Doing my stretches and physio but I bought some Asics runners but I'd like some nicer looking walking shoes to break in for the trip. Anyone know. Please...only people that know what I'm talking about reply. Thanks.

Shelley
Ardrossan, Alberta Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Baltic States & St. Petersburg - Is US cash helpful?

They are helpful if your airplane stops in the US on the way to Europe. You can use them to buy a sandwich and a drink at the airport.

Other than that, any piece of plastic with the Visa or MC logo on it is better than US dollars.

If you have Euros you can use them in Estonia, though.

Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Train Ticket in France

tickets always cheaper for trains if under 26. Great bargin for the young set!
Sandi

Sandi
Moreno Valley, CA USA 3/19/13
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S-Bahn in Berlin

Is a Eurorail pass good on the S-Bahn in Berlin?
Sandi

Sandi
Moreno Valley, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Rail pass question for Eastern Europe

Hmm - you didn't say how old you are, or if you wanted 1st or 2nd class. If you want to go in 1st class cars, I still usually find a pass is cheaper - except as already noted, in Poland. Don't know how many times you've been to Europe, or how "cast-in stone" your itinerary is, but there's freedom in a pass - to add a side trip, etc. Your trip seems pretty tight, however. Good luck
Sandi

Sandi
Moreno Valley, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Travel - Munich to Florence

You can also fly AirDolomiti from Florence and get there in 1 hour instead.

Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: France itinerary advice

Thank you, everyone, for your input. As much as I really want to see Dordogne, I think I will save it for hopefully another trip.

OK, our possible flight to Paris arrives at 9:35 p.m. at Orly Airport. At that late hour, renting a car and driving a couple of hours to Bayeux or Hornfleur is out of the question, since we would be arriving there at midnight. So do we:

1) do a late check-in into an aiport hotel and travel the next morning to Bayeux?
2) do a late check-in into a hotel at Versailles before moving on to Bayeux the next morning? How far is Versailles from Orly anyway and is it safe to be checking into a Versailles hotel at that late hour?

So here is our new itinerary. I added one night to Loire. What do you think?:
1st night--Airport or Versailles
Two nights--Bayeux
One night--Mont St. Michel
Three nights--Loire
Three nights--Paris
On to Amsterdam for family visit

Should I make Loire just two nights and Paris four nights?

Annie
Somewhere in California 3/19/13
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Train, Vienna to Krakow,day-time only

My Wife and I (seniors) require a day-time train from Vienna to krackow,we would prefer "non-stop", fast train, but because of the border crossing I believe you have to change????. Any advice would help, probably 3rd week in September. Web-sights would be a help, and how long is the trip??.

Cheers, John & Rosalind ,Sidney,BC

John
Sidney, B.Columbia Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Confused again about trains in Italy

From Figline you go North to Florence to get a fast train going south. You are back tracking but that's the quickest way because high speed trains don't stop along the way between Florence and Rome. If you choose to go South from Figline, then you'll be stuck with a slower regionale or IC. It might be less mileage, but since those take the old rail line (non high speed) and stop along the way, the journey time is longer.

Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Making TGV reservations...without using raileurope.com. HELP!

The exact same question is running under Transportation with answers. I guess Ray and Jeanie don't speak to each other.

Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 3/19/13
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florence than to dolomites

visiting florence and the next day we will be traveling to dolomites.

We kind of wanted to stop at a halfway mark on our way to venice. or at least get most of the traveling during the night. any suggestions?

yola
jupiter usa 3/19/13
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RE: Arrive MXP, train to Venice

Malpensa Express Train from the Malpensa station inside the airport to Milano Centrale (consider some trains go to the Cadorna stations, therefore choose the right one).

Then from Milano Centrale take a train to Venice.
Tickets all the way to Venice can be purchased at the MXP station.

From MXP to Milano Centrale it's about 40 min. The train journey from Milano C. to Venezia Santa Lucia is 2h 35 min. Total travel time depends on what kind of layover you have at Milano Centrale, but I'd say from airport to Venice SL is a total of almost 4 hours, including layover at Milano C.

Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Hotels Paris

I prefer to book small apartments. I've rented from apartments listed on www.homeaway.com in both Paris and Amsterdam. I have found this a cheaper, more comfortable alternative to hotels.

Rae
Cherry Hill, NJ USA 3/19/13
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RE: traveling with iPad

Susan,
Thank you. Can you upload to Shutterfly overseas? I have used it here in the US. Or is this a "cloud" account and it does not matter where you are? I am pretty new to this tech stuff.

Lynn
Leesburg, FL USA 3/19/13
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RE: Making TGV reservations...without using raileurope.com. HELP!

When you go to tgv-europe.com pick Great Britain as your country of residence to avoid being bumped to the US Rail Europe site. Then choose to stick with tgv-europe rather than being redirected to the UK Rail Europe site. Choose France as your ticket collection country. If you are allowed to print your own tickets, do so. If that isn't an option, choose to pick them up at any SNCF station in France. Be sure to present the credit card you used to book the tickets.

Tim
Minneapolis, MN USA 3/19/13
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RE: vatican & colosseum

We were lucky to find a student tour guide for the Vatican for half the price of an organized tour company. She was great. don't hesitate they are really good. We purchased a Roman Pass for the colosseum and palatine hill etc The bus made many stops and you kind of went at your own pace, I really enjoyed it. I just love Rome.. Try to visit the area of Trastevere for dinner a a stroll along the Tiber river. There are great shops. You can take a city bus from almost any of the tourist areas in the city center.

lorie
east haven, ct 3/19/13
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Train Ticket in France

I'm in the process of buying a ticket from Bayeux to Paris for June 19 on the TGV website. Leaving Bayeux at 16:36 arriving Caen at 16:52; then departing Caen at 17:03 arriving Paris at 19:16.

Two questions; 1) I assume that I can buy my tickets with a Visa that is not chip and pin as long as I pick the tickets up as a station ticket counter and not the automated machines? 2) Why would tickets for two people ages 60+ cost € 57.40 and for two people ages 26 to 59 be € 42.80? Usually, it is the other way around. Hmmm.

Thanks

Tom
Oak Brook, IL 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Amsterdam to Hamburg?

If you book tickets on the German Rail site, you can print them yourself.

Tim
Minneapolis, MN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Europe trip in May 2013

Mat,
If you're traveling all the way from South Africa to Prague, I think it deserves more than just one full day (the 17th)that your plan currently gives it. Why not stay until the morning of the 2oth and enjoy the city? Possibly even have a day trip from there. Alternatively, depart on the 19th for Vienna and settle in there before one of you must start working. I spent 8 days (combined) solo in Prague and Vienna in the middle of winter and didn't lack for things to see and do. I'm sure it's even better in springtime.

I've never visited Hungary or Switzerland so I can't comment. Must you depart from Zurich or are you only doing this in order to see a little of Switzerland?
Good luck,
Matt

Matt
Washington, DC USA 3/19/13
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RE: Sorrento to Apuglia

What do you recommend for accommodations around Lecce, Alberobello, Otranto and Ostuni. B & B, hotel, villa?

lorie
east haven, ct 3/19/13
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RE: Need help making TGV reservations.

Use tgv-europe.com to save money as well as for convenience. If you can't print out the tickets you have bought, you will get a receipt with an order number with which to retrieve your tickets from any SNCF office in France. If you have paid for the ticket on-line, possession of the credit card is mostly to confirm the order and your identity. If your new chip card won't satisfy the ticket machine about an older order, go to a clerk with both cards in hand as well as your reservation.

Southam
Windsor, Ontario Canada 3/19/13
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RE: North Wales Castles

we also made Bangor our base and bought a bus pass... went to all the places JumpinBug mentioned as well as a day in Snowdonia. Bus pass was inexpensive and convenient.

pam
edmonton canada 3/19/13
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RE: Hotels Paris

One of the regular posters here , I believe her name is Kim from Paris , recently posted a FYI piece about hotel occupancy rates in Paris . If my memory serves , it ran about 85% . Given that figure ,booking as soon as possible , as others are saying , is quite a good idea .

steven
white plains, ny usa 3/19/13
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RE: Need help making TGV reservations.

I googled tgv-europe - clicked on the Billets de Train result - clicked on America - AND THEN where it says "you are being redirected" look to the lower left where you'll see continue to tgv-europe.com - click on that and start filling in the info - you will see 3 ticketing options and info about credit card use. ALSO on this site you will be paying in euros.

Hope this helps. Good Luck.

George
Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Germany: Itinerary suggestions

Thank you all for the great input. It has been very helpful!

Denny
Columbus, OH USA 3/19/13
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RE: Austrian Christmas markets

Thanks, Gary and Paul!

I think I'm thinking Hall in Tirol? It was in the same section as Innsbruck in the RS book. I originally was thinking Innsbruck because I saw a really beautiful picture of Innsbruck in the winter with Christmas lights on Pinterest (yeah, so who really knows, right?), but then from what I read in the RS book thought Hall in Tirol might be better for general sightseeing. So, would it make more sense to overnight in Hall in Tirol or Innsbruck and try to see both of them, and then eliminate one of the daytrips from either Salzburg or Vienna?

Thanks for the tips on the other cities nearer Salzburg, I'll look into those!

Becca
Provo, UT 3/19/13
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RE: Cinque Terre on Easter

We were in vernazza on over Easter a few years back and it was all good restaurants, trains, etc..
Have a safe trip!

bruce
sauk rapids, mn 3/19/13
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RE: Portobello Road Market

Thanks very much! I will check it out!

Laura
Boston 3/19/13
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RE: Baltic States & St. Petersburg - Is US cash helpful?

US Dollars???? Ha - are you kidding? Nobody wants US dollars. Want a valuable currency - get some Swiss Francs and hold on to 'em!

As a general rule - when traveling in a foreign country take your ATM card and use their currency.

I remember an amusing episode I witnessed in the Munich airport a few years ago: An older American tourist was trying to buy a snack from a vendor cart with US Dollars. The vendor didn't want US Dollars, but the tourist just was distraught and COULD NOT BELIEVE that this poor girl wouldn't accept his US Dollars. I had to just shake my head in disbelief.

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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Youth Hostels in Istanbul, Turkey

I am planning to visit Istanbul, Turkey in May. I need help in getting accomodation in a good, clean and reliable youth hostel, especially near the main tourist attractions. Thanks for your help.

Pervez
Plano, TX USA 3/19/13
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Need help making TGV reservations.

We are in the process of buying tickets for the Tgv from Aix en Provence to Annecy. We went into tgveurope.com and and it will not let us buy tickets and have them mailed to our home as residents of the United States. Is there a way to purchase the tickets and have them mailed to our home using tgv-europe.com instead of raileurope.com. Also our new chip and pin card is in the mail, so we do not have the credit card that we are taking to Europe in our possession. Do we have to purchase the tickets with the same card we will have in Europe?

Jeanine
Saint Helens, OR USA 3/19/13
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RE: France itinerary advice

Annie, I was so excited when I saw your proposed itinerary. My husband and I did the same trip but with 3 days at each stop (not Mont St. Michel). So I think the advice you received is good...leave out the Dordogne (it is worth 2-3 days on its own) and come back again. Otherwise you will spend too much time in the car. By adding time in Normandy and the Loire you can immerse yourself in wonders...Honfleur, Giverney, Versailles..take your pick. We also loved Ste. Maire Eglise, be sure to watch "The Longest Day" first; it is old but good. The Loire is wonderful too. We opted for one story book castle (Chenonceaux) and then on to Chinon. The Chateau du Clos-Luce was interesting in Amboise. Be sure to get to the top of Mont St. Michel and hopefully snag an English tour. Have a wonderful time..you are going to terrific places!!

Barbara
Elk Grove, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Seeking advice: How to get to Athens from Monte Carlo Monaco

Thanks a lot, Ken. I have done that:
$271 from Barcelona (my destination before Monaco) to Santorini island(JTR). I will visit Monaco after visiting Paris - my last stop.

ron
glt 3/19/13
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Making TGV reservations...without using raileurope.com. HELP!

We are trying to buy TGV tickets from Provence to Annecy. Using www.tgv-europe.com, it will not let us mail them to us here in the USA. I want to avoid the higher rates using raileurope.com. Is there anyway to have them mailed to us? Time is of the essence!

Ray
Saint Helens, OR USA 3/19/13
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RE: Luggage Lockers at Munich Airport??

The prices apply all days of the week. For example, the first 24 hrs it's 8 Euro for each piece (in that weight category). For an additional 24 hrs in the same category, it's 6.50 Euro per piece (pro Stück).

Still better than the Gepäck Center in Berlin Hbf. (their version of the Gepäckaufbewahrung) where no distinction in weight or size is made. every piece no matter how small/large/heavy costs the same, which pay when you retrieve the luggage.

Fred
San Francisco 3/19/13
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Travel to France

We will be landing at CDG and plan to spend 2 days visiting Beny-Sur-Mer and the Canadian war memorial at Vimy Ridge.
The big debate is: travel by train or rented car?
Also, is there a town that is somewhat close to these 2 sites that someone could recommend for a two-night stay? We're unable to determine if the Vimy Ridge memorial is close enough to Beny-Sur-Mer to make a one-hotel stop feasible, so suggestions are welcomed.
Thanks,
Judy in Kitchener, Ont.

Judy
Kitchener, ON Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Baltic States & St. Petersburg - Is US cash helpful?

About 30 years ago in the old Soviet Union, US dollars and blue jeans were great to have... Not so much anymore. Businesses like to have local currency. ATMs are plentiful. If you have leftover cash in each country, use it to pay off your hotel bill, then put the balance on your credit card.

Douglas
Oak Park, Illinois 3/19/13
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Arrive MXP, train to Venice

Hi there,

First timers, flying in to MXP, planning to train straight out to Venice upon arrival. We arrive early morning, about 7:30AM.
Can you tell me the simplest instructions for getting out to Venice, and maybe an estimation of over all travel time once landing? I'm sure we'll be a little groggy. We do not plan to stay in Milan at all.
Thx.

Cat
Paia, HI USA 3/19/13
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RE: The elevators in the Sagrada Familia

Just to clarifythe audio guide you are speaking of is the one offered through the SF, correct?

Also, does anyone know where I can get a list of the Caixa stations/kisoks that I can print out the tickets before we go there?

Robin
Portland, OR USA 3/19/13
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RE: Austrian Christmas markets

Hi Becca,

I can only comment on Salzburg from your list. We absolutley love Salzburg (been 4 or 5 times), and it's even more charming during the Christmas markets. We're heading back this Christmas market season. In late Nov. 2010 we visited the Christmas markets in Austria... Salzburg, St. Gilgen, Rattenberg, Hall in Tirol and Innsbruck. Our favorites... they were all worthwhile. Overall, Salzburg would be at the top. Innsbruck probably second.

A day trip to Hall. Do you mean Hall in Tirol? If so, it's also a favorite of ours. We've stayed 4 here times and are probably including it again this winter, but it may not make sense as a day trip from Salzburg. Closer to Salzburg are Berchtesgaden (again, we love this area and have stayed 4 times) and the Salzkammergut.

Check schedules of certain small towns and vilage markets. There are some that hold them on weekends or "long" weekends... Thurs., Fri, Sat. and Sun. best to check ahead of time.

Paul

Paul
NYC area 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Amsterdam to Hamburg?

That is wonderful information - sounds like we can save a good deal of money if we book tickets ahead of time, but then how do we get the tickets in-hand? We will be leaving for Amsterdam in three weeks.

THANK YOU to all who gave such good info and assistance!

Sheila
Buford, GA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Luggage lockers or consigne at Narbonne train station

OK. You win by knowing what NOT to do. This helps. I appreciate the answer, Tim.

Tom
Easley, SC USA 3/19/13
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RE: Caribbean vacation??

I hope my comment on circumventing the 'law' about travel to Cuba doesn't express any approval of that method. Although I would like to go to Cuba some day, I will wait until it is legally possible to go, if I go at all.

Andrea
Sacramento, CA 3/19/13
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RE: Capadoccia tours

We also love Capadoccia! For our trip we stayed at Esbelli Evi and the hotel staff arranged a driver for us for 2 days - we paid about $80 US per day. We thought that it was really worth it! He drove us to all of the best places to see in a very efficient manner. He didn't speak a lot of English but was able to point out significant sights. Even if you don't stay at Esbelli Evi I would imagine that almost any hotel could arrange a tour guide or driver for you.

Sharon
Atlanta 3/19/13
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RE: Luggage lockers or consigne at Narbonne train station

According to gares-en-mouvement.com, the SNCF site that gives information on services in French stations, there are no left luggage facilities of any kind in the Narbonne station.

Tim
Minneapolis, MN USA 3/19/13
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RE: 1/2 Day Rome City Tour

If you find out that the basilica is not at the front of the tour you can ditch the tour and still visit the basilica. It's free to enter. All you do is wait in the security line and then go in. Be sure to dress properly or you can be denied entry.

Donna

donna
cranberry twp, PA United States 3/19/13
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RE: Questions about Markets in England

Thanks, Kathleen--

When you say established, do you mean legitimate or licensed? Or are you referring to their reputations in that they're not out to scam customers?

JANET
Westford, VT us 3/19/13
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RE: Skateboarding in Paris?

Michael! Thank you so much!! :)

Kat
Oak Harbor, WA US 3/19/13
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RE: Tips for speaking English abroad

Like Sarah, my spoken German is seriously deficient but I do understand a good bit of it and have a decent german accent when I do speak. On a previous trip, I was waiting at a bus stop near Berchtesgaden when I overheard two young American men complaining about their experiences that day with the german people that they had encountered. With my best german-accented English, I asked them where they were from (San Diego, CA, USA) and then gently let them know that, if they had some difficulties, they should not be airing their dissatisfaction in public as they did not know who understood them and that in itself could result in even more difficulties. They thanked me for the advice, apologized, promised to be more careful in the future and then asked me where I was from. Their jaws hit the ground when I told them "Florida"! You never know...

Lynn
Leesburg, FL USA 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Amsterdam to Hamburg?

There is no direct train. Depending upon your departure time you will have to make a connection in either Osnabrueck or Duisburg. You will not have trouble getting tickets if you wait and buy them in Amsterdam, but you will pay full fare (between €92.20 and €112.80 depending upon your route). If you book ASAP (up to 92 days allowed) on the German Rail site, you can get a discount fare as low as €39.00. Those tickets are non-exchangeable and non-refundable so be sure you can commit before booking.

Tim
Minneapolis, MN USA 3/19/13
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RE: North Wales Castles

I took the train to Bangor, and made that my base. From there, I took buses to Caernarfon, Beaumaris, Conwy, and Llanberis. Loved it, can't wait to go back.

Edited to add...

Public transport was cheap, easy, and convenient. I wanted to go to Harlech, but found it more complicated, but all the above were done with ease.

JumpinBug
BC, Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Amsterdam to Hamburg?

If you want to cheapest price it's best to purchase in advance via rail.de

You can purchase tickets when you arrive in Amsterdam, but you will likely be paying the most expensive fare.

Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 3/19/13
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Luggage lockers or consigne at Narbonne train station

Can anyone tell me, please, if there is short-term luggage storage, either lockers or consigne, at the main train station in Narbonne, France? Rick's 2008 France book is silent on Narbonne and the sncf and other sites I've Googled on about the station don't answer my question.

Thx.

Tom
Easley, SC USA 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Amsterdam to Hamburg?

Sheila,

I believe you can pre-purchase tickets on that route if desired, or you can purchase at Amsterdam Central when you arrive. The bahn.de website shows fares as low as €71, but the exact fare will depend on which train you choose (some have 4 changes!).

It's also very easy to buy there, but one important point to note. You'll need CASH to buy tickets at Amsterdam Central as they ONLY ACCEPT "Chip & PIN" credit cards. I've seen travellers from the U.S. turned away at the ticket windows after waiting in the queue for half an hour or more, as they didn't have that type of credit card.

The ticket office at Amsterdam Central is similar to many others in Europe. You'll have to "take a number" and then wait for the first available agent. There's usually an electronic display and a "gong" that indicates when each number is called. I don't recall if there were ticket Kiosks, but that's probably the case.

Happy travels!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Caribbean vacation??

"...One way for Americans to circumvent this is to go from Canada or Mexico..."

Do so at your own risk. The US Govt. pays cash rewards to airport and airline employees who rat-out Americans illegally visiting Cuba. I know someone who visited the Island via Mexico, and received a $1000 fine in the mail a couple weeks after he returned.

Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 3/19/13
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RE: Can you help with our Germany/Prague/Austria itinerary?

Thank you for the tips. Rothenburg is pretty high on our list of places to see so I don't think we want to skip it.

It does stress me out to not have reservations but for that day it might be a good idea.

This is the plan we are currently playing with

5 nights in Berlin
Drive towards Rothenburg hoping to spend time in Nuremberg on the way
2 nights in Rothenburg doing a day trip to Wurburg
Spend day in Augsburg then drive to Munich
4 nights in Munich with day trip to Dachau and Nuremberg if it doesn't happen on the way to Rothenburg
3 nights in Salzburg day trip to Eagles Nest
2 nights in Hallstatt visiting Mondsee and St Wolfgang
Drive to Fussen possibly taking the "Alpine Road"
1 or 2 nights in Fussen
Drive to Triberg taking the route Tom suggested
1 night in Triberg
2 nights in Black Forrest possibly Baden Baden. Day trip to Strasbourg
Drive to Frankfurt stopping in Speyer and Heidelberg
3 nights in Frankfurt with a day trip for a Rhine cruise

We still have flexibility to add 2 days if needed

Anna
Chicago, Illinois USA 3/19/13
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RE: Skateboarding in Paris?

http://tinyurl.com/c8j5st2

Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 3/19/13
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RE: Caribbean vacation??

David,

You may not be aware of this, but U.S. citizens can't go to Cuba. Well, they just recently started allowing us to go if we are on a guided tour. One way for Americans to circumvent this is to go from Canada or Mexico.

Andrea
Sacramento, CA 3/19/13
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RE: Zeebrugge to Brugge

Thank you for your fast replies. I checked out the trains from Zeebrugge-Strand and did find out that they do leave from that station on Sunday September 8th. A taxi would be easier,but I think they might be a little costly. I'll check. Thank you.

Jacqueline
Westborough 3/19/13
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RE: Europe in Fall. Start with Norway or Scotland/Ireland?

I would do Scotland and Ireland sooner as it gets windy and wet. A lot of the historical sites, except in the cities start to close in October. You may have snow in Norway...but that doesn't stop them.

Kathleen
Camano Island, WA usa 3/19/13
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RE: Rick Steves' Reader

The Iphone 5 has the Rick Steves Reader app on it also.

Robin Z
Troy, Oh USA 3/19/13
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RE: Confused again about trains in Italy

Terry,

While it may not seem logical to travel first to Florence and then Rome, that's sometimes the way trains work in Italy. Many of the trips from Siena to Rome travel via Florence.

The quickest trips from Figline Valdaro to Rome will be via Florence. Those trips will involve a trip of about 35 minutes to Firenze SMN, a short layover and then 1H:26M to Roma Termini (total time ~2.5 hours). One of the easiest trips would be a direct Regionale Veloce train from Figline Valdaro at 07:04, arriving Roma Termini at 10:30 (total time 3H:26M). There's another direct train at 11:35. Current 2nd class fare is shown at €17.45 PP.

There's no advantage to pre-purchasing the tickets. Just buy when you arrive in Italy, either at a Kiosk or ticket office. As that's a Regionale train, BE SURE to validate prior to boarding the train on the day of travel!

You can research rail travel details using the Trenitalia website.

Happy travels!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: North Wales Castles

The Castles in Northern Wales are a distance apart and not very convenient to public transportation. If you can not rent a car for the 3 days, maybe there is a small tour company...hopefully others will let you know. Then take the train to London. All levels of B & Bs are available...just check with the local Tourist Info Office. We stayed on a sheep farm on Anglessy and went to Beaumaris Castle from there.

Kathleen
Camano Island, WA usa 3/19/13
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RE: Rick Steves' Reader

Okay I see what you mean now. There is indeed an app for apple and Android called "Rick Steves Reader". It's affiliated with Adobe's Ebook service. But titles from Kindle can't be transferred to the Reader:(

Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 3/19/13
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RE: Recharging iPhone3 in Italy

suzanne,

If you're using the small charging block supplied with the iPhone, you can confirm that it will work in Europe by having a look at the lettering on the side (you'll need a magnifying glass). It should say "Input 100-240 VAC, 50 /60 Hz", so if that's the case you'll only need a few $3 Plug Adaptors.

Cheers!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Rick Steves' Reader

Ruth,

Could you clarify what you're referring to as a "Rick Steves Reader"? Are you referring to the RS Audio Europe App?

If that's the case, I doubt that you'll be able to transfer your RS Guidebook, as they're two different Apps. Each type of E-books uses a specific and often proprietary format to encode their books. Kindle (Amazon) uses either AZW / Mobipocket or KF8 formats, which (AFAIK) are not compatible with anything other than Kindle Readers.

Cheers!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: 1/2 Day Rome City Tour

Thanks we have considered this possibility. Hopefully the Basilica will be at the beginning and we can skip the rest of it and see what we want.

Linda
Niagara Falls, ON Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Questions about Markets in England

Janet: Portebello is the established street vendors and they do have real antiquities, but they are sharp so don't expect any deals. Book plate prints are in abundance here. The street sale is on Saturday. Storefronts are open then and during the week. The other markets throughout London are on their on usually day...and most of the street vendors will rotate. There used to be a publication that listed what's on for the different street markets, church rummage, etc. It is probably on your smart phone now. Beware of such things as Scrimshaw canes, etc...these are repos. Expect rain so bring an expandable plastic bag for your purchases. If you are a serious buyer bring a folding wheeled cart. You can find all kinds of Ephemera...some of it cultural specific so you won't have a clue but still fun. We found that vintage safety and straight-edge razors, and unique lighters were excellent buys...these are easy to pack. Just look on line for more info on the different London street markets before you go so you can hit them on the right day.

Kathleen
Camano Island, WA usa 3/19/13
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Golden Trekker pass

Does anyone know if the Golden Trekker pass for senior travel is still available in Ireland? Thanks

Susan
Arundel, Maine USA 3/19/13
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RE: Skateboarding in Paris?

Thank you :)

Kat
Oak Harbor, WA US 3/19/13
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RE: Skateboarding in Paris?

You can start here: http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/skateboard-parks-in-france.cfm

John
Pantego, NC USA 3/19/13
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RE: rail passes

Thanks, Sam! The information you provide is very helpful. I will check it out.

Cathy
Vancouver, BC Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Introduction Thread & "Travel Style"

hi all,

I started out not interested in traveling. But my first job sent me to the Southampton, UK ,Calais, France and HOlmdale NJ for work. I also inquired if i could take some time to be a "tourist" on my time off over there and was informed, its okay, but that time and stuff was on my dime. So, i got bit by the travel bug all due to work.

What also made a dif was that i was an Art/Architecture student for a while and if any of you followed the same path, know almost everything you learn is from overthere. So i had a chance to see in person what i saw in little pictures in my Jansens book. World of difference!

Im traveling now just to see other nifty places and to see some of the historical stuff that happend around the world. IE, Normandy, Bastogne, Paris, London....

Afa whats important to me about the traveling. Its being there. Dont have to "do it", but just being there means alot.

RS has alot to do what i do since i discovered his TV show. I try to watch it as much as i can buy my work schedule interfers sometimes. IAC, i read his books and go from there. I may follow most of the book, but i also google what else to do and see in which city. i find his books EXTREMELY helpful in getting to/from places and such, opening times and cost. It just take alot of guess work or asking for directions or how to get you there. the books also help me budget my time & $$$ on each trip. NOt to say i dont ask anyway, but it saves alot of wasted time/travel.

My last trip and i think from now on, my tactics is to visit/tour the big city(s), learn how to get around and then if/when i come back, its waaaay easier to get around once youve been there since it will be "familiar" to you and not so scary. also, most of the expensive stuff can be in the big citys, so if/when i go back, i can skip all that and head out of Dodge.

enough...happy trails.

Ray
Portland, Oregon USA 3/19/13
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RE: Rick Steves' Reader

It's an Ipad app. When I ordered a RS ebook and got the free "Europe Through The Back Door," it downloaded into the Rick Steves' Reader app. However, after using both that app and the Kindle app for the Ipad, I think I prefer the Kindle one, so I'll stick with that.

Ruth
Gig Harbor, Washington USA 3/19/13
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Skateboarding in Paris?

Hi. We are planning a family trip to Paris in September 2014.
My 14 year old son's passion is skateboarding. He is hoping to buy a board in Paris and be able to ride it there. Kind of a dream for him to say he was able to skate in Paris!
My question is, does anyone know if there are skateparks or areas in Paris where kids can skate without getting into trouble? How about skate shops? Any info or help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance. :)
~Kat

Kat
Oak Harbor, WA US 3/19/13
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RE: Confused again about trains in Italy

What site are you using? I'm at bahn.de and it shows 2 hr 15 min by heading south from Figline on a regional train, then change at Arrezzo to an express to Rome, or you could just stay on the regional and get to Rome in 3 hours, which would be the cheapest alternative if you don't want to lock in an advance nonrefundable ticket.

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: Recharging iPhone3 in Italy

Well, I think my problem was that by the time I realized that just having the plug adapter wasn't enough and that the iPhone wasn't dual voltage, it was too late.
I did buy a dual voltage converter, but I think it was fried by then. So,
yes, I bought a new one when I got home. That's why I'm trying to be sure to get the right setup now. I have all the various plugs (staying in some of the older B&Bs, there are often 2 or 3 different types even in the same room). It sounds like if I use the dual voltage charger with the right plug I might be OK.
Yes, I am aware that I need the international calling plan. I've used it
for a month and then cancelled, which worked great.
Thank you all again for your input!

suzanne
pukalani, HI US 3/19/13
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RE: Shoes for 3 month Europe trip while carrying medium pack

hi,

this is jmho. but i say to heck with what they think about your style. Its not that im trying to say they are snobs, but for one, you are on vacation and if youre hoofing it, your feet are PRIORITY #1 and #2. w/o your hooves in good condition, youre not going ANYWHERE!.

I looked for several months for shoes before i went and purchased some Keens and Tevas. The Keens were great for me and the Tevas were too, but i found out the Tevas are slippery on wet/damp cobblestones. Spend some time in whatever you choose to take and make sure that that time is on CONCRETE or HARD STONE since there is alot of that overthere. If you have any streets lined with cobblestone, walk on those too.

now back to Paris and fashion. While i was hoofing around lovely Paris and walking all over the place to see what i came there to see, i was COMFORTABLE doing it. I also notice at some of the fountains and hanging out places some of the tourist had their shoes off and rubbing thier feet or dipping them in the fountians. Just an fyi, i was snubbed in one of the tubes by a Parisian woman who was well dressed with gloves and such. she eyed me from top to bottom and then whispered something to her friend and she did the same. Iac, she just rolled her eyes while i was cracking up while this was happening since i figured my "fashion or lack of it" was what of interest. I was wearing my keens, jeans, jacket and my western shirt. was i dressed to the 9s, heck no. Was i comfortable, hell yes.

If you want to take an extra pair of shoes for "going out" then i would add a warddrobe to that, but if youre "packing" it, you will figure out real fast what is "important" to you vs whats not since you WILL feel every wasted ounce of weight in that pack by the end of your trip.

pack well and happy trails.

Ray
Portland, Oregon USA 3/19/13
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RE: Confused again about trains in Italy

Although it seems counter-intuitive, going via Siena would just make the trip longer. Some of the connections via Florence get you to Rome in about 2:15, while the fastest train connection from Siena is over 3 hours plus your time to get to Siena. There are some regional trains (e.g. 9:35 or 11:35) that take you directly from Figline Valdarno to Roma Termini in about 3:15. Another connects to an InterCity train in Arezzo, also about 3 hours to Rome. Connecting through Florence or taking one of the direct regional trains appear to be your better options.

Frank
Wilmington, DE 3/19/13
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Questions about Markets in England

I'll be in London Mon 4/8 - Sun 4/14. I love markets and am an early riser but am really not too keen on mob scenes. Here a lot of what they call "flea markets" are full of new inexpensive, off-brand cosmetics and 6-packs of men's tube socks. Not my style.

I'm a bargain hunter with a keen eye and prefer vintage or antique items. I've heard Portobello, Brick Lane and Spitalfields mentioned here but not Bermondsey. Any feedback? I'll be staying in Southwark. In all likelihood, I'll be looking for small, packable items.

Does Borough Market sell more than food?

I will be in Filey, near Scarborough from Friday night (4/5) through Sunday (4/7). Any markets in the vicinity worth knowing about.

Thanks in advance for your replies.

JANET
Westford, VT us 3/19/13
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Train from Amsterdam to Hamburg?

Hello all!

Do we need to reserve / pay for train tickets from Amsterdam to Hamburg in advance or buy there? It appears the ICE train is our best bet and Rick suggests 2nd class?

Any ideas or suggestions?

thanks!

Sheila
Buford, GA USA 3/19/13
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RE: 13 Days in Switzerland - car or train

Days 9, 10, and 11: train from wherever you left off on Day 8 to Lauterbrunnen. Stay in Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, or Mürren for 3 nights. Not in Interlaken. Jungfraujoch, Mannlichen walk, Trummelback Falls, Schilthorn?

Day 12: Train from Lauterbrunnen Valley to Schaffhausen (3 hours 10 minutes). Overnight there.

Day 13: train to Zurich airport for the flight home. Schaffhausen to Zurich airport is only 45-50 minutes, some trains with no changes, and some with one change at the main station.

If your plane departs early in the morning, or if you would rather have a night in Zurich, you can train Lauterbrunnen to Schaffhausen, spend several hours, and then return to Zurich. You actually go through Zurich between Lauterbrunnen and Schaffhausen, so you could leave your luggage in a locker there while you do the side trip to Schaffhausen.

Lola
Seattle, WA 3/19/13
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RE: Sorrento to Apuglia

You might consider someplace like Alberobello, Matera is only about an hour from there; then Lecce or Otranto and/or Vieste on the Gargano Peninsula.

Zoe
Toledo, Ohio US 3/19/13
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RE: Luggage Lockers at Munich Airport??

It says "service nonstop". Is that German for "24-7"?
At those prices, I'd lug the suitcase to the hotel and treat myself to a nice meal.

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: 13 Days in Switzerland - car or train

On second thought, you might do better with the 15-day Swiss pass, even tho' it includes 2 days you won't use. You are moving quite a bit and a 5-day Flex would take careful managing. I'm still thinking about that.

I would suggest a counter-clockwise loop around Switzerland. First draft looks something like this:

Day 1: land Zurich, train to Bern, overnight

Days 2-3: train to Montreux, spend 2 nights. boat trip on lake, Chateau de Chillon, Chocolate train, Rochers de naye, and the vineyards above the lake (should be gorgeous in September).

Day 4: train to Zermatt, spend the night. Gornergrat, Klein Matterhorn, hiking?

Days 5-6: Glacier Express to Chur. I suggest breaking it up with an overnight stop so you can explore a bit. My favorite place along there is the tiny carfree village of Bettmeralp, perched high above the valley. You ride a cablecar to get there, ascending almost 4,000 feet. You can hike up behind the village, or ride a cablecar, for views of the Aletschgletscher. Day 7, descend to the train and resume the journey to Chur, overnight Chur. (Note: the actual Glacier Express does not stop at Betten, so you either ride a regional train, or return to Brig to pick up the GE).

Days 7-8: these are for the Bernina Express and there are various ways to do this and lots of choices of places to stay, from glitzy St. Moritz to humble alp huts. The goal would be to get back to Chur or beyond (in the direction of Luzern) so the next day's journey is not so long. If I were doing this, I would go Chur to Tirano and back to Pontresina on Day 7, then Pontresina to Arth-goldau and up to th etop of Rigi to spend the night on Day 8. But that's me, and might not appeal to you.

to be continued. . .

Lola
Seattle, WA 3/19/13
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RE: Presenting Documentation to enter European Countries

Thanks everyone again for the great advice! Very Helpful!

Karen- no need to apologize, I would assume the same of anyone in my age group!

And Yes we will try to do regular posts on Rick Steve's sight during our journey!!!

Best of Luck to all you other travelers :)

Jo
Middletown, CT USA 3/19/13
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RE: vaporetto pass

I bought the 3 day pass and within 1 1/2 days it paid for the cost of the pass. Individual tickets are really expensive.

Here is a link to buy your pass online before you go.
Or
I just bought mine at the ticket window for the vaporetti outside the

train station in Venice. Very simple......

Venice Connect...

Frances
San Diego, 3/19/13
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RE: Train tickets - Florence to Munich

Raileurope won't show you all the options. Use www.bahn.de to see all the trains. Are you doing it in three stages or in one shot? You can buy the Italian trains at trenitalia.com. Primary reason to buy in advance is the savings fares. You can get the Firenza-Bologne leg for as low as 9 Euro now.

You can also travel regional trains at walk up prices 11 Euro Firenza-Bologna, and Bologna-Verona for 9 Euro. The fast trains do Firenza-Bologna in 37 minutes vs 1 hour 21 minutes regional. The Verona-Munich has advance tickets as low as 39 Euro, on Bahn.de

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: Baltic States & St. Petersburg - Is US cash helpful?

Good idea for getting ripped off? It's never a good idea to use any currency in any country that is not "local currency", or carrying large wads of cash in your wallet. There are ATMs everywhere, including Baltics and Russia,so you should have no problem withdrawing local funds when you need them.

Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Travel - Munich to Florence

Where are you looking that gives you that information?

You can leave Firenze as late as 1330 arriving the same day at 2225 changing at Padova and Verona; as well as several earlier trains.

Nigel
East Midlands England 3/19/13
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Confused again about trains in Italy

We are staying in Panzano. I know we can drive to Figline Valdarno and get a quick train into Florence. I can find that on the schedules with ease. But getting to Rome seems to be a different story. If I am reading the schedules correctly, Leaving Figline Valdarno for Rome involves a trip to Florence, then a transfer to a high speed train direct to Rome. If we go to Poggibonsi and look for a train to Rome from there, it ends up in Florence with a transfer to a high speed direct train. Both runs are in the 3 hour range, which is not making sense to me because both go north before south. What am I missing here? to get to Rome quickly, would it make sense to go to Sienna and then catch a train? Any help would be appreciated. We are not going until September but I have a reputation for procrastinating and am getting an early start. Thanks.

Terry
Rochelle, IL 3/19/13
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Baltic States & St. Petersburg - Is US cash helpful?

Hi All,

My boyfriend and I are going to be traveling the Baltic countries and Russia for 16 days in June. It appears we are going to need many different currencies. People keep suggesting that having US cash is also a good idea especially in Russia. Can someone confirm this for me?

thank you.

Christine
Vancouver Canada

Christine
Vancouver, BC Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Zeebrugge to Brugge

Looks like there are trains on Sundays from Zeebrugge-Strand to Brugge starting at 07:33 and taking 21 minutes, then every 2 hours at oddhour:33 until 19:33.

A taxi might be less stress and take you right into the centre and still be pretty cheap. Check CruiseCritic.

Nigel
East Midlands England 3/19/13
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RE: best itinerary for 10 days in Europe after daughter studies in Prague

From Prague I would head towards Vienna, Salzburg, and then fly out of Munich.

Train between cities. I didn't include Budapest because you have 10 days and not enough time.

LaRae
spokane 3/19/13
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RE: Portobello Road Market

If you're into antiques definitely visit Portobello. When I was in London last month I had a blast at the Sunday morning Spitalfields and nearby Brick lane markets.

Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 3/19/13
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RE: Portobello Road Market

If it's always been on your list then do it and take it off you list. You can spend as much or as little time there as you want and you'll soon figure out which it is to be. I've also been there many times and it's always fun.

Laurel
Kirkland WA 3/19/13
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RE: Travel - Munich to Florence

Your running up against the seasonal schedule changeover on or about June 6. There are plenty of daytime connections, check June 4 and you'll see, but they obviously haven't finalized them yet. The CNL schedules are fixed and available to view after the 6th.

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: France: Flavigny-sur-Ozerain

Yes, it's the perfect area for what you describe. I could easily spend a week or more in this area. Flavigny is where the movie "Chocolat" was filmed. We stayed in Beaune and spent two whole days driving around exploring. Loved every minute and loved the area. I thought the town of Flavigny itself was a bit boring... close by is the town of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois which I fell in love with. Has a castle and looks like a storybook village.

Susan
Sausalito , California 3/19/13
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RE: Train Reservations

It is no longer a case of "recommended" in Italy.

In Italy you either travel on trains for which reservations are not possible (Regionale or Regionale Veloce) or on trains on which travel is not permitted without a mandatory reservation (pretty much everything else including the new .Italo trains).

On both of the routes you ask about I would expect you to use the high speed FrecciaRossa trains of Trenitalia (although the .Italo from Venice would be a good candidate). The sooner you get 'em, the cheaper they are. Watch the change or refund policies on the cheaper ones.

Nigel
East Midlands England 3/19/13
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RE: Potential Business trip to Poland

I'm going to go out on a limb and put a plug for Warsaw (Warszawa)...(caveat: I was born and raised there so I am biased)...although it's not as scenic/lively as Krakow, it's very interesting and beautiful in its own right. I feel like it gets a bum wrap, and for no reason. The Old Town reconstruction itself is amazing, considering the city was razed to the ground. So if you happen to fly in there, consider not skipping it but giving it a chance (tripadvisor has good list of things to do). You can easily take a train from there to Krakow, and you'll have a nice contrast between the two cities.

Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Tips for speaking English abroad

Just take a Southern lady with you to Europe.

The European gentlemen will be falling over themselves just to hear their accent.

David
Florence, AL USA 3/19/13
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RE: Europe trip in May 2013

Mat - before you go any further I think you need to look at a map to see exactly what it is you're attempting to do.

George
Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Train Reservations

I assume you are asking about advance reservations. Reservations are required on all Italian trains except Regional trains. The really issue is price not space. There are/will be plenty of seats available even in July. But if you are willing to buy a ticket that is no change, no refund, and lock into a schedule, then there are discount available for advance purchases.

Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 3/19/13
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Transportation Verona to Ljubljuna

I have read posts about Ljubljana to Venice, but I haven't seen much for transportation from Verona to Ljubljana. We will have spent 9 days in Italy and will be catching the RS tour out of Ljuljana on June 16th. Any helpful advice regarding personal experience with this journey would be appreciated. I am aware that we will likely need to take a bus, but I am wonderining if someone can recommend alternate bus sources? The only route that I found on the 16th from Verona leaves and gets in fairly late to Ljubljana.

Thank you in advance for your help.

April
Portland, OR 3/19/13
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RE: trip with grandkids...

Well here's a different thought: Switzerland. Yes, I know Switzerland as a whole is expensive, but if you were to choose someplace like the Chalet Fontana in Mürren and get the apartment with breakfast included, you'd have a fantastic cheap place with scenery unparalleled. This area is loaded with cows, goats, chickens, sheep...what kid doesn't like their own petting zoo? This area is loaded with waterfalls and cable cars, kids and adults alike LOVE cable cars. Mürren is such a quaint little village with local kids to play with your own kids - as I observed on one of my many stays there. The local 7 or 8 year old calls out to his American buddy "goodbye my friend" in his best English - what a moment!

There's a summer luge just across the valley in Grindelwald, a roaring waterfall inside the mountain just below Mürren. Fields of wildflowers, cheese huts, playgrounds, swimming pools all in an idyllic paradise.

The Jungfrau is a spectacular trip with ice palaces and sledding in the snow - a kids paradise.

There's a little supermarket across the street from the Chalet to grab ingredients to cook in your own apartment.

Probably best of all the kids travel absolutely 100% free everywhere in Switzerland with their parents. Even the expensive Jungfrau trip is totally free for them. What more could you want? Can I go, too?

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Hotels Paris

I would book hotels now.

Read this thread from this Helpline re: Viatour... Pat's response in particular.

Susan
Sausalito , California 3/19/13
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RE: Rick Steves' Reader

If you mean the Sony Reader....you can't transfer books from Kindle to Sony or vis versa.

Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 3/19/13
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RE: Potential Business trip to Poland

I second Krakow! We went there last year and LOVED it! We loved it so much that we're starting our trip there this year! If you do go to Krakow I recommend going to auschwitz and also taking the communism tour through Crazy Guides.

http://www.crazyguides.com/krakow_tours/communism_tour_of_nowa_huta_district.html

CHRISTINA
Wake Forest, NC United States 3/19/13
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RE: Zeebrugge to Brugge

The train schedules for Sept. haven't been released yet. So the Belgain rail site can't give you any info that specific date. But by plugging in early dates the train does appear to run on Sundays.

Michael Schneider
New Paltz, NY 3/19/13
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Europe trip in May 2013

We are a family of 3 adults planning a trip to Europe in May 2013. We have to be in Vienna from the night of the 20th to the morning of the 24th (work for one of us). We want to extend it to include a short holiday.

We can land in say Prague on the afternoon of the 16th of May. Plan to leave for Budapest on the morning of the 18th. Would we be able to fit in Auschwitz? Can we leave Budapest on the 20th to Vienna. Is Salzburg a day trip from Vienna?
If we were to leave Vienna on the morning of the 24th to Zurich, would we be able to do some justice to Switzerland? We would need to fly out of Zurich on the night of the 25th.

If the plan above does not make sense, please advise. We do not want to do France or Italy. We've been to the Black Forest area of Germany.

What would the best mode of travel be? Would there be a price difference in train tickets Should we buy the train tickets at Johannesburg or buy it in Europe for individual trips or a multi-country pass?

Thank you
Mat

Mat
Johannesburg, Gauteng S Africa 3/19/13
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Spain/Portugal April - May 2013

Hi! I am a female looking for a travel partner while I am exploring Spain. I will be in Spain at the end of April until the middle of May after travelling through Italy. If you have similar travel plans and would like to potentially meet up, please just send me a message :)

Rebekah
Washington, DC 3/19/13
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Italy April 2013

I will be travelling all around Europe with an extended stop in Italy (about 3 weeks). I will travelling from the top down to Naples then I will be heading over to Spain. If you are interested in meeting up, send me a quick message. Happy Travels!

Rebekah
Washington, DC 3/19/13
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France: Flavigny-sur-Ozerain

Happy spring all of ya'lls! Who has visited this village and this area, and could you make an entire vacation out of this area? We like to tootle around in a car, find quaint villages to have lunch and see a castle, tootle on more and go to a church and have a cafe and dessert, then back to the gite for dinner. Thanks!

Jean-Paul
indianapolis 3/19/13
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Amsterdam March 29-31

I will be travelling all around with a stop in Amsterdam at the end of March. Looking for a relaxed, fun person to meet up with even if its just for a cup of coffee.

Female/USA

Rebekah
Washington, DC 3/19/13
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Train tickets - Florence to Munich

My wife and I are traveling to Italy in early May where we will meet our
daughter will have finished her semester abroad. At one point in the trip, we
will take a train from Florence to Munich. I know what trains we want to take,
but I can't decide what's the best way to buy tickets.

I feel like our two best options are:
1. Book all three legs (Florence to Bologna. Bologna to Verona and Verona to Munich) on a site like raileurope.com.
2. Book only the Verona to Munich leg on bahn.de, print the tickets at home, and buy the two Italian legs a few days before we want to make that trip.

I've search this site, and others, and while I won't say I've seen conflicting
suggestions, I just can seem to find the definitive answer, whatever that is. So I just decided to just ask.

BTW, while we haven't been back to Europe in 20 years, my wife and I did live in Nuernberg for four years while I was in the Army, and I did two tours in Germany before that. That's one reason for the trip from Italy to Germany, to show our daughter where we lived before she born.

Lastly, we are chronic over-packers. Thank mainly to all the advice and
suggestions we've seen here, we will both be taking one carry-on suite case
apiece for this two week trip.
Thanks,
Cary

Cary
Cedar Park, Texas United States 3/19/13
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RE: Rick Steves' Reader

Oh my gosh...a RS Reader??? What next, RS toothpaste?

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Long term travel/medical insurance advice

I was looking into a bunch of websites last night about medical insurance for our two week trip to Canada. My wife's Medicare and her supplement are not applicable there.

Many of the companies are giving all kinds of supplemental coverages on things that don't matter to us. I was primarily looking for medical coverage only.

Check into http://www.medexassist.com/ to see if they meet your needs. Their medical coverages are higher than most of the all other companies. Young people can go for very reasonable costs as long as you stay off the hang gliders, ice climbing and other high risk activities.

David
Florence, AL USA 3/19/13
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Travel - Munich to Florence

Is it possible to take a day train during the week from Munich to Florence in June. I seem to only find overnight trains listed.

Joni
Dartmouth, NS Canada 3/19/13
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RE: naples to palermo

That would be possible only with Alitalia's Regional Airline (Airone Cityliner) which has two flights daily in each direction early in the AM and late PM.
Volotea only has a daily, and not every day. You couldn't go back and forth on the same day.

Not sure though if it's worth flying to Sicily just for less than 12 hours on the ground. You won't be even able to see all that Palermo has to offer. You should look for a day trip closer to Naples and leave Sicily for another trip when you can do Sicily for at least 8-10 days. Sicily is bigger than Massachusetts and Rhode Island combined (actually even bigger than Vermont) and has a lot to offer.

Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Austrian Christmas markets

Everything comes down to personal tastes. We visited Christmas markets 4 times in the last 5 years. Last year we did Vienna and Salzburg. Both towns were very nice. Salzburg is a beautiful place and Vienna had a wide range of markets. Still, I liked Germany better for their markets and the experience. I might consider Regensburg (Romantic Christmas Market), Landshut, Nürnberg and Munich.

Again, Salzburg and Vienna were both very good.

Gary Mc
Salt Lake City 3/19/13
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RE: Shoes for 3 month Europe trip while carrying medium pack

Sally my husband and I did a month rail trip through Europe last year and are doing it again this year. I purchased these shoes through REI (also on Zappos) and never had an issue! They were the best investment we made for our trip! My feet never hurt even after walking miles every day!

Merrell Moab Waterproof Hiking Shoes - Women's

http://www.rei.com/product/810830/merrell-moab-waterproof-hiking-shoes-womens

CHRISTINA
Wake Forest, NC United States 3/19/13
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RE: Train Reservations

Its not so much the reservation as the oportunity to get a significant discount. The Venice-Rome walk up price is 80 Euro, but you can buy 90 days in advance for 29 Euro (non refundable, non transferable).

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: Hotels Paris

hi,

once i figure out if the place is what i want, where i want, i do it then.

you will love Paris.

happy trails.

Ray
Portland, Oregon USA 3/19/13
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RE: 4 days Paris itinerary

Suggest including walking around Ile St. Louis (little island east of Notre Dame) and the Luxembourg Gardens which I like much more than Parc Monceau.

Susan
Sausalito , California 3/19/13
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Zeebrugge to Brugge

My husband and myself are going on a Cruise and will be docked in Zeebrugge on September 8th, which is a Sunday. My question is, what is the best way to get o Brugge? I have been researching the train and believe that it may not run on Sundays. Am I correct? If so, what do you suggest? Thank you

Jacqueline
Westborough 3/19/13
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RE: Europe for $4000?

hi,

to give you an idea on what i did traveling solo last march about 4 full weeks of travel..

3.5 days Dublin
3.5 days in Edinburgh
4.5 days in London
3.5 days in Bayeux (normandy)
4.5 days in Paris
3.5 days in Amsterdam

the 1/2 days are travel days.

Flights: PDX to DUB via NJ & OSL and back.
Flight: DUB to EDI
Flight: CDG to AMS via LHR
Train: Waverly (Edinburgh) to LOndon

Train: London to Paris

i spent about 4+ K USD on this trip. i wasnt staying in any expensive hotels either, most if not all were in RS books. I tried to choose central locations so my travel was raidially from my hotel when possible. i also listed my "activitis and to do" list so i knew if buying one of the city card would save me $$ which most of the time did.

afa as chow went. My bod was still on PDT and my work schedule dosnt work well now with 3 typical meals/day so i eat a really small "dinner" @ 2000. anyway, i would grab a bite here and there especially since i was usually n a museum. If i was in transit to something else, i didnt have any problem finding food since it was abundant everywhere i was going and alot of the museums have cafes. have you ever heard of "cafe in the crypt"? they have them over there. most of the time, i was eating a quick breakfast and then running around until 1500. btw, i set my "to do and see" activities so that i wasnt doing things 24/7 but had some down time to relax, people watch and just chill from all of the things ive was doing.

i forgot. if you notice on my trip, it was in a fairly compact region. so my transportation wasnt that expensive from city to city. hint hint.

whatever happens, hope you can make your trip since there is sooooo much to see out there.

happy trails.

Ray
Portland, Oregon USA 3/19/13
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RE: vaporetto pass

My drothers is to spring for a 7 day pass at 50 Euro. If you buy 2 one way tickets at 7 Euro each, and a 24 day pass for 20 Euro, you've spent 34 Euro. For just another 16 Euro, you can go whenever and wherever you want and not think twice about it.

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: Early April travel to Amsterdam and Germany - temps?

My husband and I did a rail a trip last year from mid April to mid May. We started and ended our trip in Amsterdam. I FROZE the entire time! I'm originally from Massachusetts and can handle colder weather but it was damp and windy the entire time. We also experienced the same weather in Brugge, Germany and Prague. We are actually doing a similar trip this year (Leaving a month from today!) and I plan to pack my North Face fleece for those colder locations. We only brought light sweatshirts with us last year and ended up buying coats at a sporting goods store in Munich.

CHRISTINA
Wake Forest, NC United States 3/19/13
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RE: Rick Steves' Reader

What is a Rick Steves Reader, and where do you get it?

Nancy
Bloomington, IL USA 3/19/13
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RE: First Trip To Europe - Itinerary Check

I spent four full days in Paris and seven in Rome (on different trips) and neither was enough. We still have a list of places in both cities of things to see and do and eat and drink.

Just because you set up a home base and stay more days/nights in one city, doesn't make you a bump on a log. If anything, the more time you spend in a city, the more you can see and do.

One of our favorite things we did in Paris was the day that we grabbed some meat, cheese, bread and wine and did a picnic by the Seine. We wandered off after that to visit someplace that I can't quite remember now. However, if we only had 2 days in Paris, we couldn't have justified spending a morning just sitting around.

I would think that breaks like that would be perfect for a family with small children.

karen
Long Beach, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Introduction Thread & "Travel Style"

Retired firefighter and now work at a local community college. Uncle Sam sent me and the wife to Germany in 1967. We stayed 2 1/2 years which were some of the best times of our life's. In the last 14 years we have made 16 trips back and within the next year we plan on staying 6 weeks a year just resting in Europe. Our first daughter was born there and we are now taking each of our four children with their children on a European holiday. We also did Europe on 5.00 per day but back when Europe was a lot smaller and trains a lot cheaper. We have taken many of our friends with us and some many times.

Michael
Griffith, IN USA 3/19/13
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Train Reservations

I will be using the train in Italy & wondered if reservations would be needed for any of these routes?

Venice to Rome (One way)
Rome to Florence (Round trip same day)

If a reservation is suggested, how far in advance do you suggest for mid-July travel on a weekday to reserve seats?

I remember on a previous trip purchasing tickets in advance from a machine. Example: when I arrived in Venice, I went ahead & purchased a ticket for travel to Florence a few days later and the same for when I arrived in Florence, bought my next ticket for the next city upon arrival. Is this enough time for July?

FYI: I have never traveled to Europe in July, but this time it couldn't be avoided.

Thanks for your help.

DLB
Georgetown, TX USA 3/19/13
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RE: Where to stay in Dublin

hi again,

one thing i forgot is a must see if youre into books/antiques/buildings.

you must see the Trinity library. it kicks A!!. it feels and smells so much like a library with all of those old books in there. and the buildings and the way the upper floors are designed and layed out is so different.

happy trails.

Ray
Portland, Oregon USA 3/19/13
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RE: Luggage Lockers at Munich Airport??

Is it a 24 hours services? I have an early departure next month at 6:15am so I will need to have access of my left luggages at like 4am...possible?

Alan
Los Angeles, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Family vacation: 11& 7 yr. old - England/Scotland or Ireland?

Hi Jo,

I would suggest heading to England, so much to do and so much variety. A day or two in London, or stay in the suburbs and travel into the center on the Tube, the underground rail system. What kid does not want to see the Tower of London or ride on the London Eye, and there are wonderful central London parks for kids to let off a little steam. Then off to the countryside and coast, south west England, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall are lovely have history and some of the best weather and you can go via Stonehenge another unique site to spur a child's imagination. Or go to northern England, Yorkshire, Hadrian's Wall and Jane Austen country. There is scenery and history everywhere and being an island you are never really far from the coast and a beach. The rail system is good for the long haul runs or the motorways, freeways, will shorten the driving time and the "Are we there yet" questions. Remember NEVER think about driving in central London.

I would not go with a tour, with the help of the internet and an English speaking country, it is easy to research and plan an independent trip and has the advantage of being able to work around the timing and interests of your children.
Susan

Susan
Atlanta, Georgia 3/19/13
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RE: Car rental in pickup in shannon

In four trips, I have rented from Irish Car Rentals for three of them (the other was Dan Dooley, which I did not choose - it was part of a package). Irish Car Rentals also has a US number for questions and such. They have always had the best price when I was looking. Do make sure that you are getting a large enough vehicle for yourselves AND your luggage (or consider two vehicles).

Are you trying to get to Shannon airport to rent, or Shannon town? I would guess that there are buses that travel between Limerick train station and Shannon airport. Check www.buseireann.ie for schedules. You might also look for a car rental office in Limerick to save yourselves the trip to Shannon.

Nancy
Bloomington, IL USA 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

If you are using an i-phone, make sure you have the flashlight app on it. Mine comes in handy all of the time.

I take my battery charger and akkus, so I don't have to buy batteries all the time or take a big supply with me. That is pretty wasteful. Chargers go in carry-on, so I can charge things at the airport, or on a train, and as someone else mentioned, you don't want these in your suitcase in case it gets lost.

A messenger bag, worn cross body will be far better than a back pack. Leaves your hands free, and you don't have to worry about anyone getting into it or leaving it on bench or floor somewhere. Get one that has a flap that folds over the entire bag and that fastens at the bottom.

Jo
Frankfurt Germany 3/19/13
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RE: Can you help with our Germany/Prague/Austria itinerary?

I agree that Quedlinburg is a great visit, but maybe not so interesting for little kids. If it's warm weather, you might find a better balance of adult/kid attractions in Leipzig or Weimar. Erfurt is really pretty, if maybe not quite as authentic as Quedlinburg-but the street paving is easier (?) for little feet. Don't miss the oldest standing synagogue in Europe, nicely restored as a museum.

Just outside Erfurt is the huge (fair-weather) EGApark garden (admission charge), where they could work off a lot of energy while you enjoy acres and acres of gardens. On the other hand, they aren't ready for Buchenwald, beside Weimar ... ...

Dessau has the superb UNESCO Woerlitz gardens, with rowboats and vast amounts of space. Nice, informal outdoor restaurants nearby. I haven't been to Bayreuth, but we liked Eisenach.

If you post again, please include your revised route, I had some trouble assembling it myself.

Tim
Wyckoff, NJ USA 3/19/13
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RE: Cinque terra trails

nancy,

At the present time, ALL of the Sentiero Azzurro (No. 2) trails in the Cinque Terre are still closed. However, it's expected that at least some of them will be re-opened near the beginning of April when the tourist season starts. As you won't be heading there until June, you'll need to check prior to your trip to see the current status. This website has details:

http://www.parconazionale5terre.it/sentieri_parco.asp?id_lingue=1

Regarding "difficulty" of the trails....

The famous Via dell'Amore from Manarola to Riomaggiore is the easiest, since it's mostly flat and paved. There's a nice Bar close to the Manarola end where you can get a "cool one" and admire the fantastic views.

The segment from Manarola to Corniglia is a bit more difficult, but not overly so. It was closed for most/all of last season, so not sure if or when it will be open again?

From Corniglia to Vernazza is more strenuous again, but if you take it slow you shouldn't have any trouble.

The segment from Vernazza to Monterosso is the most challenging as it has a climb at both ends. It's not overly difficult but does take some effort (especially at the Monterosso end). The middle section is fairly easy, although there are some narrow parts.

For those wanting to hike the entire route, I'd suggest starting at the Monterosso end when they're fresh and well rested. Most people hike one direction and then return via local trains or boat.

Note that you'll need a Park Pass to hike ANY of the No. 2 trails. You can buy that at the start of each trail or at the local stations.

Happy travels!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Itinerary - Venice/CT/Rome/Amalfi Coast

" Day 4 - Train to Cinque De Terre (CT) not sure which town to stay in yet "

In Vernazza, try:

http://www.elisabettacarro.it/

Bob
Gettysburg, PA 3/19/13
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RE: Spain/Italy may 2013

Matt, take a look at my post from the 4th of February. Perhaps we grab a beer and have Tapas. My dates are flexible, so, the timeframe you have set out will probably work. Thanks

Rob

Rob
Dallas, TX USA 3/19/13
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RE: Easyjet going to online-only check-in?

Philip,

I certainly hope that's not the case, as I'll be booking a flight with EasyJet later today. As you noted, they would be joining RyanAir in a "race to the bottom".

I've noticed a recent tendency in Europe to reduce or eliminate counter staff for things like check-in. Last time I tried to check-in at a counter, I was told to go back a step and use the Kiosk to print my boarding pass, and then apply my own luggage tag and drop my Pack on the conveyor.

I've also noticed an increasing tendency for passengers to check-in using their Smartphones, but that option isn't universally available. For example if I'm flying from here to Seattle via Horizon/Alaska Air I can't use Smartphone check-in, but if travelling on flights within the U.S. I believe I can.

Fortunately things haven't degraded to that point here yet, and I can (thankfully) still deal with an agent for things like boarding passes and luggage.

Be sure to post a note on what you find.

Cheers!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: vaporetto pass

We had a similar schedule to yours. We bought a 36 hr pass using it to get to our hotel room via vaporetto and for an evening ride around the canal. Used it the entire next day to get to San Giorgio Maggiore, for Burano and Murano, and for a late afternoon and then an evening vaporetto ride. We just bought single tickets for the vaporetto back to the train station the morning we left. Don't know for sure but it seems children over age 4 pay full fare.

Carol
Martinez, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

In addition to things mentioned above, I have created small sewing and first aid 'kits' for my travel bag. The sewing "kit" is several colors of thread (matched to our wardrobe colors) wrapped around a small piece of cardboard, 2 needles, and some safety pins- all in a small baggie. I've fixed pants, shirts, even an umbrella and a day bag over the years. I also created a small first aid kit for my day bag. It has some assorted sizes of bandaids, some neopsorin type ointment, alchol wipes, 'butterfly' or seri-strips, dental floss, guaze pads,small amount of adhesive tape. I also take a generic meds kit- asprin, aleve, dramamine, benedryl, ormaprazole (hubby has reflux), chapstick and our prescription meds. Sometimes I add nyquil capsules and anti-diarreah meds,sun screen, or other things.
I take a small nail kit- clippers, scissors, nail file, tweezers, and a very small eye-glass screwdriver. It has come in handy for more than a torn fingernail!!! You may not need them on every trip, but when you do, it's nice not to have to shopping for these small things. (I've also started keeping similar things in my purse at home. So when hubby asks "Do you have...?", I can say "Yes.").

Toni
Charlotte, NC USA 3/19/13
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RE: Capadoccia tours

I have not been in that part of Turkey, but relied on my Lonely Planet book for other areas (SW coastline). So I'll just list some companies for you that the book recommends, and you can check them out on the web:
www.newgoreme.com
www.nomadtravel.com.tr
www.turkishheritagetravel.com

You'll also have no problems finding an outfitter once you get there.

Agnes
Alexandria, VA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Long term luggage storage Paris, France (CDG)

If the airport will do the trick, there's a storage check-in place on the lower level by the train station in T2.

Ed
Pensacola 3/19/13
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RE: Segovia, Avila & Toledo

We did an overnight trip to Segovia via Avila using the bus from Madrid. And the same for Toledo on another day. Both we great in the quiet of the evening. For us the half day in Avila was enough.

Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

I agree with Jeff; take about half of the clothes you think you might need. Big mistake to burden yourself with a huge suitcase unless you are taking something in it like a bike that's been taken apart for traveling, or something unusual like that. Or unless you are going on a business trip and will need an extensive wardrobe and dress up attire for evening.

Watch the Rick Steves travel video on You Tube titled "Travel Skills", and see shots of people trying to run to catch a train rolling a tremendous suitcase behind them. Also impossible to carry this up the narrow stairs of a B and B. For some people, a good medium size carry on is enough.

I agree with Nigel; wear a moneybelt under your clothes. It's the most important item, I believe. It's not to be used like a "fanny pack"; a moneybelt should be hidden. Whatever you do, don't wear a fanny pack. They make you look like a tacky tourist.

Rebecca
Nashville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Another train question from newbie

Yes. Used Great Britain as you home so you didn't get forwarded to the RailEurope web site.

Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 3/19/13
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RE: Long term luggage storage Paris, France (CDG)

If you are surviving with one bag on a 30 day tour, what could you possibly have in the extra luggage that would make the next 30 days better. Extra luggage just causes extra problems so stick with the one bag. As recommended a hotel is really you only option. However, security at hotels is often very light so don't anything of great value.

Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 3/19/13
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RE: rail passes

Not scary at all.

The 2 legs Munich-Reutte and Reutte-Salzburg can be done with a Bayern ticket (22 Euro pgr 1 plus 4 Euro each addtional pgr) unreserved trains, buy from vending machines in Munich. The FRA-Munich ticket can be bought in advance from Deutsche Bhn as low as 29 Euro pp, leave plenty of slack time if your inbound flight is delayed. The remaining legs can be purchased in a advance on line from individual rail sites.

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: how to get car to venice marco polo airport

danielle,

I agree with a previous suggestion to drop the car BEFORE you get to Venice. You won't need a car there, so there's no sense in paying for the car and parking. I'm assuming that's your last stop since you asked about the airport?

Once in Venice you'll be getting around by Vaporetti or walking. For your trip to the airport, using the Alilaguna service is probably the most cost effective (Water Taxis are possible, but they tend to be expensive).

Happy travels!

Ken
Vernon Canada 3/19/13
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RE: 4 days Paris itinerary

First: you're going to have such a blast! :-)

Second: a couple of thoughts.

When in the Marais, I recommend that you pop into the Musee de Carnavalet. It's FREE, is housed in a gorgeous old mansion, and has a crazy collection of stuff related to the history of the city of Paris.

If the Picasso Museum is closed, you could try checking out the Petit Palais. This is also FREE, and generally has fewer tourists than other Big Famous Museums. The have really neat, unexpected stuff, and the building itself is magnificent.

Versailles plus Sacre Coeur (is that what you mean?) and another church and lunch somewhere is a huge, enormous day. Versailles in August will be jammed with tourists, which can mean super long lines and delays. It could be HOT HOT HOT and unpleasant. Last time I was there was in late September and I darned near roasted to death while sweltering in lines and shuffling SLOWLY along behind other tourists.

That isn't to say you should avoid it. Just - drink fluids, wear sunscreen, pace yourself, and maybe make that the one big thing you plan to do that day.

A fun twist on Versailles is to take the bus. Very fun sight-seeing as you go along, and the bus is likely to have A/C. You can also hop off for a meal or a glass of wine along the way if you see a nice looking place.

Kira
Seattle, WA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Eurail Pass or Regional?

Europe is fully of uncertainties. Don't eliminate them, enjoy them. Some of our best experiences and memories are from uncertainties. If you want certainties, stay in Florida.

Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 3/19/13
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Another train question from newbie

My family of four will be traveling from Bayeux, France (after seeing Normandy) to Nantes, France. Is the best way to book ahead on the TGV website?

One way on July 10.

Thanks so much!
Denise

Denise
Castle Rock, Colorado 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

Hi,

All the essentials I want to say have been mentioned...hidden pocket, passport, etc. But I would surely carry extra batteries for the camera. It's a matter of supplies on hand not just taking time out and expense to buy them there. We can get batteries a lot cheap here than buying them (with the unfavourable exchange rate)at some retail store, unless you're motorised to get you out to discount stores in France or to Saturn in Germany. A pity that Schlecker went out of business.

Fred
San Francisco 3/19/13
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RE: Europe for $4000?

I won't address the issue about traveling with kids that young, as others have already volunteered to do so. However, I will agree with others that your trip would probably be better enjoyed and less expensive if you limit the geography you're trying to cover. Why not stick with a London and Paris only trip? There is so much to see and experience in just those two cities alone, but you also have many easy day trip options from each (Bath, York, Stonehenge, Versailles, Disneyland Paris, whatever). Rail is expensive in the UK, and the Eurostar isn't super cheap, but it's all a lot cheaper than traversing the continent from north to south on an expanded trip. As for lodging, you can still get a decent family or quad room in London for around €85 if you look hard enough...Paris is more difficult and two rooms might be required. Use airbnb.com to look for apartment rentals in both cities...tons of great options, very reasonable, and you'll save a ton since you can eat all breakfasts and some other meals in your apartment. OK...about kids: Your kids literally won't remember a thing as they're so young, but I would still take them...it's your family after all. But you would be justified in having them stay with grandma/grandpa when you consider the super high cost and the fact that they won't recall any part of the trip later (i.e. you'll remember the Eifel Tower, and maybe...maybe...maybe your 3 year old will remember he/she had an ice cream near a big metal thing somewhere once, if even that much...1 year old will obviously not recall anything). Those are my tips...good luck!

Michael
Des Moines, IA 3/19/13
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RE: First Trip To Europe - Itinerary Check

Thanks for all the very thoughtful replies. We go back and forth about being confident travelers, to being scared to death about taking the trip. We don't want to spend a bunch of money and not have fun, but we don't want to be bumps on a log either. I can sit in a rocking chair at home! But at the same time, I don't want to overdo it.

Steven
Atlanta, Georgia USA 3/19/13
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RE: rail passes

You say 'preliminary' and then 'we don't really need to buy a rail pass' - you do not say how you came to this conclusion.

You have a fixed itinerary, if the money matters and you have done a maths. comparison between whatever rail pass (and any supplements) and purchase of point to point tickets from the relevant rail companies and come to the conclusion point to point purchase is cheaper (which I am almost certain would be the case), surely not much more to be said.

Neil
Whittington 3/19/13
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RE: Spain and Portugal 2014

I am 62 and interested in Spain and Portugal especially Southern Spain. Spring of 2014 would probably work for me. I have traveled some on my own and had a great time but agree it can be fun with company. Interests include walking, history and art.

Susan
Atlanta, Georgia 3/19/13
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vaporetto pass

I take it the pass has to be bought for each individual. I see the adult rate, but is there a child rate (age11). Also if we arrive by train on Thurdsay at 4pm and leave from Venice by train on Monday in the morning -how many hours pass would you buy or is it better just to buy pass for the train transfer , trip to Murano and islands and the twilight ride around the whole canal?

Barbara
poughkeepsie, ny usa 3/19/13
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Rick Steves' Reader

I downloaded a Rick Steves book from Amazon. It is in my Kindle app on my Ipad. Is there a way to move it to the Rick Steves' Reader? I'm not sure if his reader is better than the Kindle App, but I would like to compare them.

Going to France in May!

Thanks!

Ruth

Ruth
Gig Harbor, Washington USA 3/19/13
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RE: Germany Tour

Hi,

On hostels in Berlin: the newer and more popular independent one are located in the eastern side, esp. closer to Alexanderplatz and Rosa Luxemburg Platz. In Berlin-Charlottenburg is the HI hostel on Kluckstrasse, not bad, checked it out but didn't stay there. It's very close to the Resistance Museum (Gedenkstätte deutscher Widerstand).

The one advantage the HI hostels have is that dinner is served there (hot food, etc.) Next to Bahnhof Zoo is an independent hostel, which apart from its location by the station, I don't recommend, still it fills up. Both the HI and independent hostels are located all over Berlin...Charlottenburg, Mitte, Wannsee, Prenzlauer Berg, etc.

Fred
San Francisco 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

So, there was all the controversy last week about the new TSA rules specific to knives and length of blade, but apparently, some obscure rules around the length of adult toys were also proposed. Jay Leno joked about it, but it's evidently true...there is some sort of length limit. I wouldn't normally care, but someone here on the Helpline attached a TSA photo of a passenger's bag going through an x-ray machine as part of a story about security a couple of years back. Anyway, right out there for god and everyone else to see was a fairly sizeable toy. Everyone here noticed it, but nobody mentioned it for like half a day. It was hilarious, and made me think that an adult toy is a "top needed thing to pack" for some folks.

Michael
Des Moines, IA 3/19/13
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RE: Segovia, Avila & Toledo

Toledo is less crowded, and more evocative, at night. It was our favorite "twisty road" medieval center in Spain. Of the three, I'd recommend this most for an overnight.

We really liked Segovia. I was pleasantly surprised because I often hear it disparaged (especially the rebuilt castle). I thought Segovia had more to see than most towns it's size - Aqueduct, Castle, Cathedral and an old Templar church.

Avila has a great wall and is a decent place in general too.

All three offer more affordable lodging than Madrid - because they each get more day traffic than overnight visitors.

You can get around easily by bus but it's harder to make a daystop and move on due to limited schedules. Toledo has an AVE train to and from Madrid.

Brad
Gainesville, VA 3/19/13
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RE: 4 days Paris itinerary

Musee Picasso has been closed for renovations and while it was scheduled to open this summer, I believe it has been delayed quite a bit. You may want to double check that its open before you go to the museum on Thursday morning and have an alternative plan just in case.

Joanne
Ottawa, Ontario Canada 3/19/13
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RE: One Minute to Change Trains at Mittenwald?

Yes, I have taken a train from Innsbruck to G-P with no changes too. And it looks like they are still doing that now, and until april 7. After that, it looks like all trains have that transfer from one train to another at Mittenwald. Maybe it will change back, maybe it won't! But at least now I am prepared to deal with it.

Lola
Seattle, WA 3/19/13
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RE: Confirmed seats on United Partner foreign airlines?

Ditto for Air Berlin, an American partner flying from Chicago to Frankfurt then onto Rome. We downloaded the seat diagram for the different planes and then were able to phone them in the US and get the seats we wanted on both legs.

George
Independence, KS USA 3/19/13
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Gites.com

I am wondering if anyone has stayed at a cottage outside of Sablet called Coule Fontaine. I have been in contact with the manager and all sounds good but there are no reviews. Before I send my deposit I would like to find out some opinions. Also, it says there is a pool (very important) but the are no photos. I'm hoping it is a decent size for our adult sons.

Barbara
Vernon, B.C. Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Please Help! Gimmelwald but without Schilthorn?

Thanks everyone for the suggestions! It looks like it won't be a good time to visit BO. We're probably going to shuffle things around and spend less time there.

Thanks again!

Keerati
Bangkok, Bangkok Thailand 3/19/13
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RE: 13 Days in Switzerland - car or train

Tim, that was one of the reasons that we were concerned about taking the trains exclusively. We want to make the best of our time. Thank you for the information about alternatives.

Susan
Harrisburg, PA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Confirmed seats on United Partner foreign airlines?

I have had similar with United partners Aer Lingus and Air Canada. The biggest problem is that neither of them will allow to view your reservation or select seats online. You have to call them and hope you aren't on hold for an hour or more. This can be a real nuisance because you really do need to check occasionally to be sure they haven't made a schedule change and not notified you.

Jeff
Bend, OR United States 3/19/13
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RE: Long term travel/medical insurance advice

Good advice so far, aanda. Good luck with your new lives.

Make sure you take at least 2 more days in the UK or you will come up short. Any portion of a calendar day in the Schengen area counts and with 134 days you need at least 44 days not in Schengen.

Nigel
East Midlands England 3/19/13
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RE: Hotels Paris

Thank you Sarah.

BTW, have you used Steve's recommended tour outfit, Viator?

Gordon

Gordon
Fairfield, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Car at lake Como

Not mid-week, maybe on the weekend it might get busy with weekenders and Sunday day trippers from the Milan metro area.

Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Munich, In late August, or during Oktoberfest?

If you're not into parties and crowds, you want to avoid Oktoberfest.

Unfortunately, August is the big vacation month - so you will probably get crowds then as well, hopefully a little less rowdy crowd.

Brad
Gainesville, VA 3/19/13
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RE: Rental car from Treviso, Italy to Istria, Croatia

Unless you are planning on returning the car to Italy you should carefully look at what the international drop charge would be.

Jeff
Bend, OR United States 3/19/13
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RE: Viking River Cruises

Oh my gosh yes! Come before and stay afterwards for as long as you can. Getting to the continent is the expensive part. Might as well make as much of it as you can. Yes, visit Nuremburg and stay the night in nearby Castle Veldsenstein:
http://www.burghotel-veldenstein.de/Home_eng.htm for a night to remember.

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Please Help! Gimmelwald but without Schilthorn?

What the others said.

But, I've seen most of the world and there's one thing I have to do every few years to keep myself humble: ride the gondola up to First late in the afternoon when the sun is bouncing off the north face of the Eiger. It's not as good as the old days when it was just a rickety chair lift, but it's still a heart-stopper.

Ed
Pensacola 3/19/13
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RE: 4 days Paris itinerary

Too bad you will miss the garden fountains in Versailles. They only operate on a strict schedule and your day is not one of them. They are spectacular, here is the schedule:

http://en.chateauversailles.fr/prepare-my-visit-/single/tickets-and-rates/billets-et-tarifs/les-grandes-eaux-1-en

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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rail passes

I have been doing some preliminary research on Rick Steves' rail passes section of this website, and it looks like we don't really need to buy a rail pass after all. This is our itinerary, and we are staying two to three nights at each place: Frankfurt to Munich; Munich to Reutte; Reutte to Salzburg; Salzburg to Venice; Venice to Florence; Florence to Monterosso (CT); Monterosso to Gimmelwald Switzerland; Gimmelwald to Colmar France; Colmar to Frankfurt. That's nine days of train travel. In Italy, we have been advised to use Trenitalia. How about the other places? We have everything else booked - the plane tickets and all the accommodations. The train travel looks very scary to me..... Thanks for any tips! You guys are awesome!!

Cathy
Vancouver, BC Canada 3/19/13
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Easyjet going to online-only check-in?

I'm flying from London to Lyon on Thursday and got an email today from Easyjet informing me that I HAD to check in online and print my own boarding pass at some point in the next two days before reaching the airport. The website still suggests that you can check in at the airport, but I've checked in online just in case, will enquire further when I get to the airport.

Has anyone else had this? Could be problematic for anyone who's booked Easyjet thinking they could check in at the airport and doesn't have easy access to a printer where they're travelling. It would be disappointing if Easyjet has joined the Ryanair race to the bottom.

Philip
London United Kingdom 3/19/13
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RE: Munich, In late August, or during Oktoberfest?

Seems that ANYTIME is a great time for a convention in Munich which ALWAYS makes hotel prices skyrocket. We've been bringing student groups to Munich for several years now in May/June and this year we happened up some particular transport convention. Prices are sky high.

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: 13 Days in Switzerland - car or train

Be aware there are "normal" trains that travel along the same path as the Glacier Express (a slow moving freight train for tourists). I love Switzerland and the dramatic squeeky clean landscape and the small alpine villages and the big cities - but I would rather minimize my time on the specialty slow-moving tourist trains and actually get out and see/explore. Maybe you're that way, too.

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Europe for $4000?

You probably don't want to hear it but my advice would be to either leave the children at home or limit yourself to just a couple of places. The logistics of travelling that far with small children in unfamiliar places on a strict budget are just too difficult.

Jeff
Bend, OR United States 3/19/13
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RE: Please Help! Gimmelwald but without Schilthorn?

Grindelwald may offer a few more dining options than the towns on the other side of the mountain, mainly because it's a little bigger. Other than that, though, it's more of the same... another base to explore the mountains. But overall, I would expect most tourism-related businesses to be closed. Because...

April is the absolute worst time of the year to visit. There's not enough snow to ski, but too much snow (and mud and fertilizing manure) to enjoy any decent hikes. And the weather is often cloudy, overcast and rainy, so the mountain views are often blocked.

If you remain dead-set on visting the Berner Oberland at this time of year, consider strolling around Interlaken or visiting the castle in nearby Thun.

Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 3/19/13
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RE: Please Help! Gimmelwald but without Schilthorn?

Even in the busy tourist season Gimmelwald is a place to meander through and see for about an hour. You definitely don't need 3 nights in Gimmelwald. The Lauterbrunnen Valley separates Mürren and Gimmelwald on one side of the valley and Wengen on the other. Grindelwald is up and over yet another mountain (First) from Wengen. I would probably choose either Wengen or Grindelwald. Grindelwald is designed for big tour buses of people while Wengen, Mürren and Gimmelwald are car-free alpine villages...definitely no tour buses there.

The Jungfrau is always open and easily accessible from both Grindelwald and Wengen. Nearby Interlaken holds nothing except two beautiful lakes. The nearby village of Thun is quite nice with its medieval town center, wooden bridge and fairytale castle perched high in the center of the village. It's your honeymoon...there will be plenty to do.

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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North Wales Castles

What is the best way to get from ferry terminal coming from Dublin to the two or three best north wales castles? I would think bus or train? Any B and B recommendations for those on a budget? Perhaps three nights in the area and then train to London. Any thoughts would be great.

A&A
Flagstaff 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Stuttgart to Paris

I'm waiting to hear back from people I know in Geneva. If they are available, I would like to stay with them for an evening or two on my way to Paris, even though it takes me out of the way.

Joseph
Chicago, IL USA 3/19/13
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Cinque terra trails

We are going to Italy this June and have a two night stay in the cinque terra.
We are staying in manarola. Wondering if most of the trails between the villages are open at this point? Specifically the trail from riomaggiore to manarola?
Also wondering how difficult these trails? thank you
Nancy

nancy
ramsey, mn usa 3/19/13
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RE: Long term travel/medical insurance advice

Good ideas Frank! In order to make it easy on us we plan to spend the first six weeks exclusively in the UK and Ireland so the dates will be smooth and not so much back and forth.

We definitely plan to have medical insurance of some type. We are not risk takers.

A&A
Flagstaff 3/19/13
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RE: Europe for $4000?

Hi Anna,
Yes, you can do it for $4000 with careful planning but you may need to narrow your focus a little. If it is your first trip "over the pond". Then consider choosing 2 - 3 locations and explore from there. Lots of locations = lots of time traveling and higher transportation costs. Have you checked travel time Paris to Venice or Rome? Are you comfortable on a train that long with small children? You didn't say if you can fly "open jaw" (in one city and out another) or if you must fly in and out of London. If you are really more interested in Paris/Rome/Venice can you fly in/out of one of those cities? Also, sometimes it is cheaper to rent a car or to fly via easyjet, ryan air, etc. Some lodging will give deals like stay 3 nights and the 4th night is free.

Honestly, if it were me, I would choose 2 of the big cities, say London and Paris, stay a couple of nights in the city then choose a smaller area near each to explore. For example: London and the Midlands (Cotswolds, Warwick Castle, Stratford, etc.) or Bath or Cornwall, then Paris and any small region you choose (Normandy, Alsace, etc.). Or just explore Italy for 2 weeks. May is fast approaching, don't panic but don't dawdle.

Lise
St. Louis, MO (formerly, Windermere, FL) 3/19/13
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Tep wireless

Has anyone rented a wifi device from them? Wondering whet the service was like.
TIA

Christi
Whitsett, TX United States 3/19/13
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RE: Hotels Paris

Hi Gordon. I'd book your rooms as soon as the hotel allows. I was in Paris last September and booked my hotels 3-4 months out; I thought I waited too long to decide, because September is a busy month for the city, but I did get the places and rooms I wanted.

Sarah
St. Louis, MO USA 3/19/13
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RE: Europe for $4000?

Finding a place to stay with two children is tough. You will need a triple room or a family suite and that seriously cuts down the hotels you can stay in. I doubt very seriously you will stay in a hostel with child 3 and 1. IMO I say 6000.00 not much less. Remember London, Paris, Rome, Venice, are not cheap.

Michael
Griffith, IN USA 3/19/13
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RE: One Minute to Change Trains at Mittenwald?

I don't know why they do it that way. It's a German train from GaP to Mittenwald, and then that train turns around and goes back to GaP, and an Austrian train comes up from Innsbruck, picks up the passengers, and goes back to Innsbruck.

But it's not always that way (i.e., change trains in Mittenwald). In 2009, I took one train from Seefeld, Austria, through Mittenwald, all the way to GaP.

Lee
Lakewood, Colorado 3/19/13
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RE: St. Louis, MO area travel meeting Sat. March 23

Looking forward to it!

Sarah
St. Louis, MO USA 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

Like Beatrix, I traveled to Europe a few years ago and my airline lost my luggage for the whole 2 weeks of my trip. I learned pretty quick that I could get by with only my passport and money (though it wasn't pleasant). But I did have my camera and my journal - those to me are the second tier of essential travel items.

Also wear a moneybelt for your passport, extra cash, credit and ATM cards, and other important materials. If you are pickpocketed, they will only get your daily money allotment and nothing else. Don't worry too much about that. Just be aware it can and does happen, and prepare yourself accordingly. Keep a hand on your bag in crowds, esp. on subways, and pay attention to your surroundings. My preferred day bag is a cross-body messenger bag - I like the ones made by LeSportSac because they're lightweight and wear like iron.

Sarah
St. Louis, MO USA 3/19/13
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RE: Please Help! Gimmelwald but without Schilthorn?

Thank you Ed! Any suggestions on what to do there? What's not to miss?

Keerati
Bangkok, Bangkok Thailand 3/19/13
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RE: Barcelona: Another hotel near the Hotel Arts?

I'm not helpful, but my company also put us up at the Hotel Arts (which is a Ritz property) and it was lovely:)) Barcelona was wonderful:) Enjoy!

Lisa
Bellingham, WA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Long term travel/medical insurance advice

You need to separate your insurance needs into two piles - medical and trip. My biggest concern would be medical. While you think you are young and health and will have no problems, things do happen. There was a recent posting from someone in your age range, with no insurance, having an emergency appendix removed in English. Go to insuremytrip.com to review various policies. Remember this insurance as to be primary because you do not have other insurance to fall back on.

The second insurance is trip cancellation or interruption insurance. Unless you have prepaid a bunch of lodging and tickets, I would not worry about that type of insurance. IMO, that type of insurance is seldom worth it especially given your proposed trip.

Also - since you are aware of the 90 days Schengen zone limitation, be sure to keep some record (receipts, etc.) of you time in and out of the Schengen zone so the 90 days does not get challenged.

Frank
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO USA 3/19/13
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RE: Portobello Road Market

We have been to this market several times and really enjoy it. We are into hunting antiques, so this has been a good place for us to go. Antiques can be quite expensive there. The last time we were there, it was on a Saturday (in May), and it was VERY crowded. Shoulder-to-shoulder people - kept us from enjoying it quite as much as we had at other times.

Sharon
Santa Rosa, CA USA 3/19/13
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Hotels Paris

Hello:
I am visiting Paris in October 2013.
I am wondering when would be the best time to book my hotel rooms? In other words how much in advance would be the best.

And for tours and no-wait entry tix.

Thanks,

Gordon

Gordon
Fairfield, CA USA 3/19/13
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Long term travel/medical insurance advice

So I have a very specific inquiry.

My husband and I will both be quitting our jobs and moving our stuff into storage in a new state (where our families live) before we start our trip. We will therefore be without medical insurance after 30 days but we are only 28 with thankfully no major medical issues. We will be in Europe and uk (schengen)from sep 11-jan22 roughly. Then a week and a half in Florida before returning to the state of our families to find new jobs.

Which travel insurance would best suit our need for almost five months of coverage while including major medical/accident? We plan to book many things last minute through airbnb so how should we estimate a solid travel cost? Will the insurance work through all the countries in Europe and the two weeks in Florida? Can I buy my plane tickets now and purchase trip insurance later? Any other things I am not thinking of?

We definitely plan to purchase the insurance, but I just want to know if there is different advice due to the length of the trip and need for medical.

A&A
Flagstaff 3/19/13
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St. Louis, MO area travel meeting Sat. March 23

It's time for our March meeting. We welcome all who are interested to join our casual discussion group. The next meeting will be Saturday, March 23, 10:00 a.m. until about 11:30 or when we feel like were done. Look for the Rick Steves guidebook on the table. We gather at
Saint Louis Bread Co.
10740 Sunset Hills Plaza
St. Louis, MO 63127
The Plaza & Shoppes at Sunset Hills
(314) 966-1070
Off I-44 and a little east of I-270

See you there!

Lise
St. Louis, MO (formerly, Windermere, FL) 3/19/13
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RE: 13 Days in Switzerland - car or train

If your plans include those scenic train rides then you definitely want a pass. Either a 4-day or 5-day Flex pass should do it---let me give it some thought.

Lola
Seattle, WA 3/19/13
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RE: Family vacation: 11& 7 yr. old - England/Scotland or Ireland?

Hi, Jo

I'm going to England next month but have never been before. But even though you're not "city people", there is so much to do in London, you might think about staying outside the city and taking the train in for a couple of day visits. Esp. with the rail system being as comprehensive as it is.

In any case, here are the same two cents I put in whenever anyone asks about Ireland. My 3 favorite spots were 1)the Aran Island of Inishmoor just off Galway. There is a swimming beach and, since there are no visitor cars allowed on the island, a fabulous & affordable way to get around is by bike. No castles but lots of ruins (including a fort) and spectacular places to hike. Lodging can be pricey but if you only spend a couple of nights, it might work for you. 2) The Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland is spectacular with plenty of places to hike around as well. 3) Donegal - peat bogs, the beach, wide open spaces, the road less travelled but equally as friendly and welcoming as any place in Ireland. We found these 3 places a lot less crowded and less expensive than SW Ireland, inc. Dingle.

Also, as you know, there are castle ruins everywhere. We managed to find modest lodging in B&B's every step of the way (except Inishmoor, but it all evened out in the end....). After overseas flights, our single biggest expense for the two of us was car rental.

I'm not sure where you are but often flights in and out of Shannon are a bit less than Dublin. BTW, we found nearly all these places thru RS's book.

If you haven't tried airbnb for lodging and yapta to track fares, these are two powerful travel tools.

Good luck to you.

JANET
Westford, VT us 3/19/13
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RE: Turkey for one week - enough time for Istanbul +++?

Lisa:

A very good way to decide if you need a week or less is to take a look the Rick Steves week long Istanbul tour which details the activities and sights the tour covers and what the tour does not cover. This will give you a good idea as to what should be seen and also what interests you. I think you will need a week to see much of Istanbul, but you would have to decide what you think you want to see and how much time you like to visit places and include time to spend eating and sitting in a cafe having a drink and determine if you want to walk the streets, visit the musuems and take the boat ride. Not be rushed, but to cover the city as you may only visit it once.

I enjoy seeing a city of a whole week and if I do go back ( like Rome, Paris and London which I enjoy seeing more than once) then I know the lay of the land and what I want to see again and what I did not get to see. But with Istanbul, do you really think you will see it again.

I personally feel that 3 nites, four days and jet lag is not enough time. It is a longer flight than Rome, Paris, London so you may want to allow time to rest a bit before going out to see the sights.

The only city I felt I really covered in 5 days is Dublin and liked it but if I never go back that is fine, but loved all the other cities enough to see them at least twice.

But whatever you decide, see the sights and enjoy what you see and if you don't get to the others, then that is fine. Don't rush just to see everything, quality time, not quantity is much better.

Have a great time.

ann
staten island, new york usa 3/19/13
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RE: 1 day for tuscan hill towns - is rental car worth it?

In your shoes I would rent a car in Siena for 24 hours on Saturday morning. I would then use the car all day Saturday and either returning Sunday morning in Siena or drive to Rome or Orvieto with it and return it there.
Make sure the rental office is open on Sunday morning at the return location (many are) and, if you decide to rent the car, find a hotel in Siena outside the ZTL (outside the city walls) and preferably with parking.

www.borghiditoscana.ne
To decide what to visit.

If you decide not to rent a car, then you should visit San Gimignano by bus or train (via Poggibonsi).

But with a car you can see much more, also it will give you a chance to visit Orvieto, where you can return the car upon arrival in the morning. The rental offices in Orvieto are next to the station and from Orvieto to Rome it's a breeze via train.

Roberto
Fremont, CA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Buying a car or purchasing a Eurorail pass in Europe

Hi,

My input deals with traveling by train or any other public transportation, not on leasing/buying a car over there, something of which I know nothing since it does not interest me as an option.

Keep in mind that getting discounted rail tickets ( alot of tickets) for a four month period means you're locking yourself in to a time specific, coach specific train, ie., traveling by time table basically canceling out the flexibility option which a 4 month trip offers. Missing it because you couldn't be at the station on time or hopping on the wrong train say an EC instead of the RE means no refund or credit to a replacement ticket.

I would not tie in every single travel route for a four month trip.

Fred
San Francisco 3/19/13
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RE: Rail jet trains

It isn't clear to me from which city the Railjet will head south but it was clear in a release that one of their goals is to reach Venice.

Watch this spot...

Nigel
East Midlands England 3/19/13
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RE: Going it alone, good idea?

"Has anyone traveled to Europe on their own for 3 weeks and came back fine?"

Sarai Sierra didn't.

I only say this because this thread has gone on entirely too long. Do what makes you happy.

James
Elizabethtown, Kentucky 3/19/13
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RE: 13 Days in Switzerland - car or train

Thank you all for your responses. I am very grateful. We are arriving in Zurich and would like to go to Bern, Montreaux, Interlaken, Sion/Zermatt, Chur, Tirano, Schaffenhauson. The train trips we are looking at are Glacier Express, Bernina Express and Jungrau. We love beautiful mountain scenery, small, unique towns and areas. We are not afraid of the train and public transportation. Any help with our itinerary would be grately appreciated.

Susan
Harrisburg, PA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Europe for $4000?

P.S. Do you have passports for the children already? If not, better get going on that.

Lola
Seattle, WA 3/19/13
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RE: Europe for $4000?

No railpass. Buy discount tickets in advance. Right now, there are still low-priced tickets from London to Paris ($66 per person) for mid-May, at least for the day I looked at. You only need two tickets; children under 4 ride free as long as they sit in your lap.

You can check prices for Paris to Interlaken, and Interlaken to Milan (gateway to Italy) on the Swiss site, SBB. MIlan to Rome, look for 19 euro tickets on Trenitalia.

The transport between these places won't add up to a whole lot-if you get the good fares it could be as low as $400 for the two adults. Children under 4 ride free in Italy and Switzerland; I didn't check on the French trains.

You will need to keep lodging costs way down, so apartments are your best option. Try Air BnB to find suitable ones in your cities, and be diligent about checking the location. Instead of Interlaken, consider either farther into th emountains (Lauterbrunnen), or somplace less out of the way, right on the main train route (Kandersteg or Spiez would work).

Lola
Seattle, WA 3/19/13
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RE: Please Help! Gimmelwald but without Schilthorn?

Grindelwald ?

Ed
Pensacola 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

We've been in a situation where we've arrived in Europe - and our suitcases did not. We had to do without for 10 days. It definitely gave us a very good idea of what are essential items and what are things you can do without or easily replace once you've arrived at the destination.

As we were travelling in the middle of winter the must have items were the right shoes. Husband had to buy new ones in Germany (he was wearing only slip-ons during the flight) and fortunately could do so easily as he has pretty average feet. But I was glad that I did not have to spend my vacation time hunting down the right footwear for my kids and myself. While hubby was shoe shopping, the kids and I enjoyed the Christmas market instead!

Make sure you have your camera AND chargers, batteries and memory cards. Those take a lot of time to replace as they might not have the correct ones in the places you plan to visit. And you definitely want to have a good camera that you know how to operate. We had cameras and other electronic gadgets in our carry-ons but most of our chargers in the checked-in luggage. Big mistake! We were not able to find the correct chargers for our video camera even though we had locals helping us - and of course everything closed up over the Christmas holidays.

I'm not going to talk about passport and money, that's a given. Only to make sure you have at least two different bank/ATM/credit cards with high limits for eventualities. The airline did eventually reimburse our expenses but our entire cash vanished within 48 hrs of arriving ...

Everything else is secondary.

Beatrix
Calgary 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Stuttgart to Paris

"You can book STR to Paris 92 ..."

STR is the Stuttgart airport. I doubt that he is going to spend his whole week at the airport, but there are direct trains (usually TGV) from Stuttgart Hbf to Paris.

When looking up schedules and booking with the Bahn, the homepage, Bahn.de, does get you started, but you will eventually be routed to this page, which allows you to input more information. I suggest you go there to start with.

Lee
Lakewood, Colorado 3/19/13
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Please Help! Gimmelwald but without Schilthorn?

Hi All,

As a part of our honeymoon trip to Europe, my wife and I were planning a 3-night stay in Gimmelwald. However, we have just now learned that the lift from Murren to Schilthorn will be closed during the entire time we'll be there (We will be there 22-25 April and lift closes from 22-26 April). We also heard that shops and restaurants in Murren may be closed during the time as well. Given that we were planning 3 nights in Gimmelwald, we are not sure if we would have enough things to do while staying there. We were planning to spend some time in the Interlaken area, Jungfrau, Murren, and Schilthorn. Now that Schilthorn is out of the picture, We would really appreciate any suggestions you may have. Thank you so much in advance!

Keerati

Keerati
Bangkok, Bangkok Thailand 3/19/13
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RE: One Minute to Change Trains at Mittenwald?

Thanks, Lee. If they are still scheduling it this way in September, I think I will just go ahead and book it with the 1-minute change time, since we would like to get to Bolzano ASAP to meet up with others. After reading your comments and Sam's, I am confident that they will wait for everyone to make the transfer. We'll be ready to hop off the train as soon as it stops!

Lola
Seattle, WA 3/19/13
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RE: Rail jet trains

From Zürich to Venice? That would surprise me.

If from Vienna or Salzburg to Venice, no. The EC from Munich goes to Venice.

I'm not surprised that the RJ goes from the Tirol into Zürich, only that it stops in Sargens (CH), and you can buy tickets from Sargens to Zürich.

The RJ to Munich does not make stops at stations in Germany on it'w way to Munich. It doesn't even stop in München Ost like most express trains do.

Lee
Lakewood, Colorado 3/19/13
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RE: Sept / Oct. Itinerary/Train travel

Thank You for the information.

Richard

Richard
San Miguel de Allende 3/19/13
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RE: Travel to Ireland

You don't say how long you will have but a day in Dublin (2 at the most)is more than enough. Ireland is all about the countryside & the only way to really see it is by car. They drive on the left so WATCH OUT but you will get used to it with time. Bunratty Castle near Shannon has a medivil dinner with entertainment and is worth doing. The Ring of Kerry gets all the hype but the Dingle Penninsula is less commercial and spectacularly beautiful. Go to the Cliffs of Moar if you can and who doesn't need to kiss the Blarney Stone? The stone is at the top of Blarney Castle so be prepared for a climb and narrow stairs.

john
sumter, SC United States 3/19/13
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RE: One Minute to Change Trains at Mittenwald?

On the Bahn website, I see a 1 minute change in Mittenwald from GaP to Innsbruck. The incoming train is on track 2, the outgoing one is one track 3. That should be a "cross-platform" change. As long as you are at the end of the car with your luggage and get right off when the train stops, you should have enough time to walk across the platform. The conductor is not going to release the train while people are still boarding.

I put in GaP to Innsbruck and got the connection, so the Bahn must expect people to make it. If the train from GaP is late, they will hold the train to Innsbruck.

Here (www.stationsdatenbank.bayern-takt.de/StationsdatenbankBEG/Steckbrief.html?lang=de&efz=8004043) is the station plan for Mittenwald. You can see that tracks 2 & 3 share a platform.

OTOH, the pedestrian streets in Mittenwald are only a few blocks away. Depending on the time of day, you might want to schedule a two hour stopover in Mittenwald and have a meal or look around.

Lee
Lakewood, Colorado 3/19/13
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RE: 4 days Paris itinerary

Versailles in August is going to be VERY CROWDED. If you can possibly purchase tickets ahead of time you should do so or you will spend your day standing in line. The gardens are spectacular and you don't want to miss the Petite Trinanon where the king and queen did most of their living away from the chaos of the palace. Getting out to Versailles, seeing all there is to see, and getting back will take much of the day so get there early.

john
sumter, SC United States 3/19/13
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RE: Caribbean vacation??

Cuba has all the elements you list plus it has wonderful music, beautiful cities and tons of history. It also is friendly welcoming and as safe as any holiday destination is likely to be.

David
Basingstoke England 3/19/13
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4 days Paris itinerary

HI!! i have being working with this schedule, still dont know if I think is the best.. so I came here for some light from you guys...let me know what you think. Traveling with my cousin (2 adult young women)

August tuesday 6- train from London arriving to Paris aprox 11am. check in Hostel (close to the area of Pompidou). Wal around Pompideou, Le Marais distric, lunch, Champ Elysses, Arc de triumph, dinnner and Parc Monceau (relax,people watchin)

wend 7- Louvre, lunch, Le Saint Chapelle, Conciergerie Palace, ice cream at Berhillion, Notre dame and dinner

thurs 8- Picasso Museum, lunch, Trocadero area, Eiffer tower, night cruise

friday 9- Versailles, lunch, Basilica du Sacre, Basilica Dome, Moulin Rouge, dinner

So what you guys think... I dont know if Friday is too much to handle or is that ok...
thanks for your help

shira
Puerto Rico 3/19/13
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RE: Tips for speaking English abroad

And, avoid idioms - expressions that don't mean exactly what the individual words would mean. We use so many in English, but people with limited knowledge of the language take them literally. A guy making insolent comments is not a "wise guy". My daughter had Russian gymnastic coaches who knew no English when they came to this country, and were learning at a basic level. I found myself having to constantly think about what I was saying - what does that expression mean literally?

Even though many toilets in Germany are labeled "WC", that's not "double-U-sea" in German. They pronounce it "Vay-tsay".

Lee
Lakewood, Colorado 3/19/13
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RE: Going it alone, good idea?

I am an Eurocentric traveler and I say go. Do this trip solo, you'll learn about yourself coming away with greater confidence.

Fred
San Francisco 3/19/13
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RE: Europe for $4000?

Besides airfare we figure on $200.00 a day. Sometimes we go over, sometimes under.

Monte
Genesee, ID 3/19/13
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RE: Two Weeks in Netherlands and Belgium without Car

While I agree that Brussels is overrated, since the OP mentioned museums, it has to be mentioned that you could spend a full day just going to the four best art museums: Modern Art, Ancient (i.e. not-modern) Art, Magritte, and Bozar. They're very close to each other. And while the KMSKA in Antwerp is closed for renovation, this is the best "on the walls" of Belgium. Although I like everything on display, you'd be sorry to miss "The Death of Marat", wouldn't you?

Even if it's pouring rain, then you have the Coudenberg (slickly redone, Charles V palace cellars) and the history of Belgium museum, BELvue, and the Musical Instrument museum just steps apart. And by ducking through the nice old Ravenstein arcade, you can get back to the Central Station almost dry.

Tim
Wyckoff, NJ USA 3/19/13
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RE: Ferry Issues

Thanks so much everyone for such great advise! I did not even think of the credit card dispute. I was also surprise of the lack of friendly customer service..but we got just the flat no not refundable! This is a trip of a lifetime on my bucket list and $400 is a lot of money for anyone! I do appreciate the advise! Happy Trails Everyone!

Julene
Fairbanks, Alaska USA 3/19/13
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1 day for tuscan hill towns - is rental car worth it?

Everyone has been so great and helpful on this blog! We are traveling to Italy in May for 17 days. During the trip we plan to spend 2 nights in Florence and 3 nights in Siena. We will arrive in Siena on a Thursday afternoon and then have 2 full days (Friday and Saturday). We will be leaving first thing on Sunday morning to Rome. I want to spend 1 of these 2 days exploring the tuscan countryside and I love the idea of renting a car so we can stop when we see something beautiful and go at our own pace. My question is - is it really worth it to rent a car for only 1 day (considering we will need an international license, insurance, etc = more hassel than a bus)??
That brings me to my second question - where should we plan to go?! More than anything I want scenery. The rest of our trip will be full of museums and architecture. I love little towns too but I mostly want the best tuscan hillside experience. We really aren't wine people (I know, I know) so that won't effect the decision as much. We will probably stop for a picnic along the way. What are your suggestions?!
Thanks so much!

Sarah
Newnan, Ga United States 3/19/13
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RE: Europe for $4000?

Sadly, no.

Transportation costs averaged out per day wii gobble your budget.

You've picked two very expensive cities.

Since this is your first time out of the cage, you have neither the knowledge nor the gumption to wiggle into the less expensive areas.

Maybe six grand?

Ed
Pensacola 3/19/13
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Car at lake Como

We are planning to stay at an agriturismo near Lake Como May 22-24. Will we have trouble with traffic and parking mid week in May at the Lake?

Grazie, Nan

Nan
Topeka, Ks 3/19/13
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RE: iPad and International SIM card

Tamara - I use Vodafone Websessions for my iPad in Germany and it's been terrific.

http://www.vodafone.de/infofaxe/379en.pdf

George
Canada 3/19/13
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RE: 1 museum, 1 cathedral, 1 palace, and 1 fun activity.

In Amsterdam, I would hire a boat (with boatmaster) for a private tour of the canals. Since you are in a group of 5, that will cost not much more than going with a large tour, and it can be a fun thing to do. There is also the NEMO museum and science center with plenty of younger-kids specific activities.

The Vatican Museums are one of the masterpieces of world Antique and Renascence art. It should be on top of your list, just don't be overwhelmed trying to cover every single room.

Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 3/19/13
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Europe for $4000?

Hello all!

My family and I are hoping to travel to Europe in May. We have a travel voucher for $3500 and have quickly realized all that will cover is our plane tickets (me, my husband and our two children, ages three and one). Ha!

We are now hoping for a realistic estimate of what two weeks will cost us abroad. We plan to fly into London and then use the rail to get down to Rome, with stops along the way in Paris and Venice...perhaps Interlaken?

Perhaps I am even asking how cheaply it can actually be done. We can't avoid the rail pass, I guess? But beyond that, is it realistic to think we can see the major sites in these cities, stay in hotels/B&Bs/hostels that won't get us killed, and eat at a fun restaurant a day for under $4,000?

We claim to be an adventuresome crew with very flexible children (at least state-side...haha!). Thank you in advance for any guidance/information you can pass along! :)

*Anna*

Anna
Knoxville, TN 3/19/13
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RE: iPad and International SIM card

'Power of course runs down on the iPad when using it all day in the car.'

No lighter socket??

Ed
Pensacola 3/19/13
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RE: When to buy airline tickets

hi again,

if youre travel is flexible, then try to make your flights the same.

as someone mentioned about connecting the dots, you can do that, i do and try to take the shortest route. sometimes you have to go off the path to get where you want to go too.

i found out that i can get direct flights from PDX to AMS so i try to use that as much as possilbe even it it cost me a few hundred USD more. why? because i went to the same place before with 2 layovers and it cost me 6 hours more time in airports and security. I didnt save that much $$. The cost/savings benefit is up to you.

also as others have mentioned, look at flying out of different citys and days of the week can make a world of dif. To make a point. that AMS trip, i was going to fly home from Paris on a Sunday. 1 way tickets were 1200 USD on a Sunday. So i looked at flying out on a Monday/Tuesday and it dropped to 600 USD. So, i looked at flying out of AMS on a weekday and it was the same....no brainer here...travel to AMS for 3 days and add one more city to my trip...yes i probably spent more or as much for the sunday flight, but i had way more fun.

looking for flights and such can be time consuming, but can learn alot for the next time.

happy trails.

Ray
Portland, Oregon USA 3/19/13
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RE: Family bikeriding Provence - July

Here is a link to one of the best bike map companies in Europe. We used their guide for the Danube and found it excellent for routes and local info.
They do have a guide for Provence:
http://esterbauer.com/db_rtb_detail_int.php?buecher_code=PROV_E

Alex
Longmont, CO USA 3/19/13
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RE: iPad and International SIM card

May 2012, we travelled parts of England, Wales and Ireland. Shortly after we arrived in London, we stopped into one of the electronics stores that populate the streets called Reload. I purchased a 28 day SIM card for my iPad for £44.99. (Much cheaper than buying a contract at home in Canada!) It was good throughout Great Britain and saved us while traveling in a car. Our GPS failed to function once we drove into Wales and the iPad was our only source of road information. It worked marvelously.
Then in Ireland I bought ~one week of time with a different company called "3" for €10 where they changed the card and set it up for me, same great service as in London. Again, excellent coverage and really useful. Power of course runs down on the iPad when using it all day in the car but charges up just fine at night. Returned to England and switched out the card myself, re-installing the Reload coverage card. By then I had watched the other store attendants do the job and I knew it was fairly simple. I am seeking a similar set up when we visit Germany and Turkey this year.

Tamara
Edmonton, Alberta Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Going it alone, good idea?

@Bruce. I totally agree with you. If Emlyn wanted affirmation that she should go ahead and take the trip alone, then she came to the right place. If she wanted to hear differing opinions, then not so much.

I hope she got what she wanted to hear.

By the way, I agree with everyone else here - do it! I travel almost exclusively alone and do prefer it. But it's not for everyone and only she can decide if she's up to it.

Emlyn, I hope you decide to go and have the trip of a lifetime.

Nancy
Corvallis, OR USA 3/19/13
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RE: 13 Days in Switzerland - car or train

We have made four two-week trips to Switzerland using public transport exclusively. I wouldn't do it any another way. The Swiss transport system is a joy-you can combine train, boat, and cablecar to get wherever you want to go ( adding Postbus for some more remote villages). And no worries about parking,,parking tickets, or traffic fines (speed limits are strictly enforced and fines for violations are high).

Our trips generally include stays of 3 or 4 days in four different places. A Flex Pass works well for that and might work for you too. A 4-day Flex Pass (saver) would cost $290 each, and would give you four fully covered days of travel go as far as you like by train and boat. (a 5-day Flex Passos $335 if you need more covered days). Use those covered days for your major travel days. On other days, for trains and boats, and for the mountain lifts and cablecars every day, the Flex pass gives you a 50% discount. (Exception is the Jungfrau railway which is 25% off above Wengen).

If you rent a car you would still want to ride some lifts and lake boats. You would either have to pay full price, or buy a pass of some sort ( probably a Half Fare Card for 120 CHF each). also, if you plans include overnights in carefree villages like Wengen, Mürren, Gimmelwald, Zermatt, Bettmeralp, etc., a car is a liability. Myou have to pay the rental plus parking fees for the time the car sits unused while you are up there in the beautiful mountain
village.

Do you have an itinerary or some idea of what you would like to see?

Lola
Seattle, WA 3/19/13
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RE: Seeking advice: How to get to Athens from Monte Carlo Monaco

Technically there is no rail route. You have to take several trains and a ferry. Short answer: fly.

Douglas
Oak Park, Illinois 3/19/13
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RE: Can you help with our Germany/Prague/Austria itinerary?

"can anyone suggest a good place to sleep in between Berlin and Rothenburg?" How about a great substitute for Rothenburg altogether? Quedlinburg and/or Wernigerode at the foot of the Hartz mountains. Quedlinburg even has a night watchman's tour (although I think it might be only in German and Dutch).

Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 3/19/13
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RE: Young Adult 2 week Trip

Nightlife in Venice. Hmmm. Paradiso Perduto on the Fondementa Misercordia in the Cannaregio district. This is definately a young persons' spot. Get your drink in the bar then hang out with everyone outside on the canal. They have live music on the weekends.
Don't try to do too much. 3 days minimum at each spot to really get the feel of the place and see the sights. That makes time for 3 or maybe 4 spots, and don't forget that traveling kills at least half a day. So comb through the bucket list. Always remember, you'll be back.

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: Munich, In late August, or during Oktoberfest?

Hotels pretty much fill up during Oktoberfest and prices about triple. If that isn't a reason not to go then, I don't know what is... Also, fall is a very busy time for conventions in Munich and hotels can fill up/price increases for those. So August is a great time.

Douglas
Oak Park, Illinois 3/19/13
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RE: international driving license

It is required and many of the Greek rental agencies require the IDP to even rent a car. And another vote for having an IDP for any foreign driving.

Douglas
Oak Park, Illinois 3/19/13
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RE: Going it alone, good idea?

What are the odds of asking Eurocentric travel enthusiasts whether a trip should be taken?

Bruce
Whitefish, Montana 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Stuttgart to Paris

www.bahn.de is the best site to help you see routes, timing and pricing. You can buy your ticket here,and if you buy in advance you can get some great deals.

Dawn
Denver, CO 3/19/13
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RE: Can you help with our Germany/Prague/Austria itinerary?

Hi Anna:

You asked about a place to stay between Berlin and Rothenburg. I don't know the time of year you plan on being in Germany but my wife and I seldom make reservations and we have never had a problem finding a room. This depends on the time of year you plan on going as July and August will be busier. I know you have 2 small children but they will be easier to sleep than four teenagers which we have done. Without a reservations you may feel vulnerable but it gives you great flexibility in return. The secret is to start looking for a room early enough so that you aren't caught looking for some place late in the day when everyone is exhausted. IF you don't require four and five star hotels, and we don't, you will find lots of places so just head out towards Rothenburg and see how things go knowing you will find some place, somewhere.

john
sumter, SC United States 3/19/13
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RE: Barcelona: Another hotel near the Hotel Arts?

Hotel Arts is right next to the sculpture in the Olympic Village. We didn't stay near there, so can't recommend anything in the area - look for something near the Olympic Village.

I'd go to tripadvisor.com and search hotels in Barcelona. You can choose "Best Value" hotels to get the better budget options (we paid about 65 euro per night for a double near Placa Catalunya). You can also search near Olympic Village using the map on the right.

Brad
Gainesville, VA 3/19/13
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RE: help with Venice trip

One option is to take a ferry across the Adriatic to Rovinj or Pula or Porec, Croatia. Its kind of pricey (120 Euro RT), and the ferry runs over at 5 pm and returns next morning, so you'd need to stay at least 2 nights. About a 3 hour crossing. Maybe at the end of your trip after checking out of your appartment. Another is a day trip to Padua to see the Scrovegni Chapel (reservation required) and the University. 30-45 min train from Venice. Ljubljana is a 5 1/2 to 7 hour bus+train from Venice. Again that is a 2 nighter minimum.

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: GENERAL EASTERN EUROPE DRIVING QUESTION

Hey, i like Sofia!

James
Frisco 3/19/13
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RE: Best sights and travel plan, Munich, Reutte, Salzburg

April is a little early so you may have to plan indoors in Munich (or you may get lucky and get nice weather). Regardless, I'd start in Marienplatz and check out the city halls and cathedral. After that, I'd probably head to the Art Museums but you may be happier with Hofbrauhaus.

If the weather is nice and people are out. The Victualienmarkt and Englischer Gardens are great - I'm not sure when those get going - and would make a full day. You could then go to Hofbrauhaus, or other brewery, in the evening for dinner.

I've done the area in a car. I think it's smart to stay a night in the area of Neuschwanstein and get to the castles early - they will be crowded year round by mid-morning.

I don't think you have much time for intermediate stops. There is more to do in Salzburg than you have time. I'd get there as quickly as possible so you can explore the center (all within walking distance). The Augustiner brewery is a nice spot for dinner and a beer if you don't need anything fancy.

Brad
Gainesville, VA 3/19/13
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RE: France (slightly) off the beaten path: Paris, Loire, Burgundy, Alps

And one more . In Clamecy, there was a pastry shop. I took pictures of his very creative little meringue dogs.

I finally tracked down his name and info. If you're heading into Clamecy, his shop is definitely worth a short stroll up into the medieval part of town. (which is wonderful even without the sweets)

Emmanuel Portal
Patissier - Chocolatier - Glacier
22, rue de la Monnaie
58500 Clamecy

http://emmanuelportal.canalblog.com/

Andrew
Durham USA 3/19/13
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RE: traveling with iPad

Here is a list of some of the apps I find helpful when traveling.

Packing light helpers/Practical things
1. Alarm
2. Flashlight
3. Calculator
4. Compass
5. Language Dictionary/Translator (may or may not be connected to Wifi, haven't played around with this one yet)
6. Update the Contacts Apps with Emergency Contacts and people you want to mail things to.
7. Evernote/Notepad with addresses of Hotels/Itinerary/Flight Info.

Fun Things to Pass the time
1. Music
2. Ibooks/Kindle App -> Download Guide Books
3. Sudoku

4. Game of Choice

I am also an avid photographer, so I will upload my pictures to the ipad at night and then once I have wifi at the hotel or hotspot, I will then again up load them to shutterfly or sharing site of choice.

Also if you are near an Apple store, stop in and they might have some suggestions as well.

I would be lost without my ipad:)

Susan
Columbus USA 3/19/13
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RE: Sept. airline ticket to UK - dare I wait a month?

Thank you both for your input. I decided to go ahead and get the ticket so my husband and I can fly on the same flight. The cost was brought significantly down because I used American Express points we'd accumulated. I decided that the worry and time it would take to keep checking prices was not worth the extra $200 I may have saved (I doubt fares would have gone down more than that.) Anyway, it's crapshoot as they say. Thanks again. Julia

Julia
Jericho, Vermont USA 3/19/13
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RE: Family bikeriding Provence - July

Carol, check on the route for the Tour de France, which covers part of that region in mid July. You DO NOT want to ride anywhere near those roads!

Bob
Gettysburg, PA 3/19/13
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RE: Are train reservations REALLY necessary? France & Italy Pass

Yes, your pass would be good on the trains from Aosta to Firenze.

However, if you take the bus from Chamonix to Aosta, you might consider connecting there to a bus to Milan and taking a high-speed train from there to Firenze. The ride will be a lot faster than taking the train via Torino. For bus timetables from Chamonix to Milano, go here.

Tim
Minneapolis, MN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Romantic Road in August should we??????

HA - totally agree. The Romantic Road is ANYTHING by romantic.

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: 13 Days in Switzerland - car or train

No need for a car - Swiss Transport system is absolutely excellent. And as the previous person pointed out lots of beautiful places are only accessible by trains, gondolas, etc.

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: help with Venice trip

Well 8-10 days is definitely too many to spend in just Venice. What floor you stay on really doesn't matter unless you're unlucky and happen to be on the ground floor during the alta aqua. What you definitely 100% must get is air-conditioning. It will be hot/humid and you won't be able to open your windows unless you want to be eaten alive by mosquitoes.

Apartment sounds good. Venice island is very small and there's really no bad choice of an area. There might be a more "convenient" choice, but with the vaporettos you can always get to where you're going fairly easily.

Tim
Knoxville, TN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Scotland

Sorry, missed the car plan. I would definitely NOT use the train. Spend 1-2 days in Edinburgh and rent a car for any additional time to drive to Stirling/St Andrews, or other choices you make. Drive to Pitlochry, Inverness, Isle of Skye (if chosen), and on to the Lake District. Just checked the British rail site. You could train from Inverness in about 5.5 hours or from Glasgow in about 1.5 hours. The drive time from Inverness to Glasgow is likely on the order of 4 hours and 2 hours from Glasgow to Carlisle. You will definitely want a car for a stay in the Lake District, so you could either train and rerent or drive.

david
washington 3/19/13
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RE: When to buy airline tickets

Put the dots on a map. Connect them with the shortest lines possible. Shoot for arriving at one end an departing from the other. If you have to back up a notch to find a cheaper flight, compare the offset of land transportation cost to getting to the new departure point.

Also look at a straight round trip with land or cheap air to get back to the one-point international spot.

What's going to give you fits is that you've got a tight nucleus except for the two long Spain and Italy sticks.

Ed
Pensacola 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

A follow-up to my comment above about not photocopying your credit/debit cards: I just now called and asked one of my credit card issuers (Amex) what info they need when you call to report a missing/stolen card. The customer service rep I spoke with, said they'll ask for your social security number if you don't have your card number at hand, and will also ask security question(s) to confirm your ID and locate your account. She recommended that when traveling outside the US, to make a note of the international number on the back of the card that you can call collect from abroad, as well as the US-based toll-free customer service number.

Based on a quick online search, it appears that VISA and MasterCard also do not require your card number to report a loss/theft, and will ask for information to confirm your identity and locate the account.

Thus there is absolutely no need to carry around anything - except the cards - bearing your full credit/debit card numbers. In case of trouble, you will only need the customer service numbers for each card issuer.

Suz
Denver USA 3/19/13
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RE: switzerland

Berner Oberland IS a ski resort. Try Wengen. Its the closed big area, you can get there by train or car (except you have to park the car in Lauterbrunnen and take the short train ride up to Wengen). Easy connection back to Geneva airport.

Sam
Green Bay 3/19/13
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RE: 13 Days in Switzerland - car or train

Hi Susan,

We did an 11 day trip in Switzerland many years ago and only used trains. I'd say skip getting a car and use public transportation, which is excellent in Switzerland. Some of the most scenic places aren't even accessible by car (or even allow cars), such as Zermatt and much of the Berner Oberland, including Wengen, Muerren, etc. There's no need for a car in cities either. We do like having a rental car for our trips to Austria, Bavaria, etc., but wouldn't consider having one for Switzerland.

Paul

Paul
NYC area 3/19/13
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Portobello Road Market

Hello!

I will be in London for a few days in September (this will not be my first time) and was wondering if spending some time at the Portobello Road market is worth it on a Saturday? I have heard great things and love to go to markets, etc. but was just wondering the opinion of those that have been. I only have a couple of days there but going to this market has always been on my "list" of things to check out and have yet to get around to it. Thanks!

Laura
Boston 3/19/13
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RE: Viking River Cruises

Judy, glad I'm not the only one to hit a wrong key from time to time. I've talked to a few people who have taken similar trips and they have all commented that the biggest mistake they made was not arriving a few days early (or staying a few days longer) so that they could see more of the anchor cities; in this case Budapest and Nuremburg. After spending thousands of dollars on plane tickets and dozens of hours on travel its worth a few dollars extra to hang around.

James
Frisco 3/19/13
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RE: When to buy airline tickets

Thanks for your help everyone! I found multi city tickets from Denver to Paris and then Amsterdam to Denver for $1200. I was thinking of flying into Paris and them traveling through France, Spain, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Czech rep, Germany, and back to Amsterdam. I am going for two months. Does it make sense to fly into Paris and out of Amsterdam? Or should I go for multi city with cities a little farther apart?

Laura
Steamboat springs, CO United States 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

Have read many say tweezers for atm machines in case cards get stuck.
I must say that's a new one on me. I can't see tweezers getting enough purchase on a slippery plastic card in a machine to be any help. The trick is to use atms attached to or inside banks during banking hours - then in the extremely rare occasion of a problem staff can help.

I take it that there are UPS places to send home trinkets bought
There are some Mailbox Etc shops about and while UPS and TNT do provide a service there are not regular locations for dropping off packages. Don't be surprised when you have to mortgage the house and sell your first born to pay for the charges. It isn't cheap to express (there's no slow service) to the US.

I keep reading about pick pockets & purse snatchersfanny pack a must or small backpack ok??
If you use the term "fanny pack" in Europe and especially in the UK you will draw attention to yourself. It means something different - something quite intimate. Also "bum bags" as they are referred to are absolute pickpocket magnets. They shout out loud to be taken, and often are. All your valuable papers, passports and deep storage money and cards should be in a properly used moneybelt or similar. If you draw attention to yourself you may have pickpocket problems in crowds and on and around public transport. The whole idea is that pickpockets pick on the most obviously vulnerable, the most unaware of their surroundings, the most ostentatious. Your job is to blend into the background and make sure if somebody's belongings will be taken they will somebody else's.

Nigel
East Midlands England 3/19/13
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RE: Trains from Venice to Zurich

There are no direct trains from Venice to Zurich, but several different routes you could take. Which route are you looking at? It may be cheapest to break it up into segments. Min any case, buy on Trenitalia, not "Eurorail".

Lola
Seattle, WA 3/19/13
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RE: Kensington Palace or Hampton Court Palace?

I agree with your decision to go to Hampton Court if you are choosing between the two. However, for the sake of anyone else reading this who might be deciding whether or not to view Kensington Palace at all, I'll say that I have enjoyed it each time I have been there much more than many of the previous posters apparently did. I think it is lovely. If you are interested in the Victorian era, it is interesting to see where Queen Victoria grew up. And you can get a nice cup of tea at the Orangery.

D.D.
England 3/19/13
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RE: When to buy airline tickets

You may find it cheaper to fly into someplace other than London. Heathrow, where most flights from the US end up, is an expensive airport. I just tried a search on Kayak, using Denver as your airport. Flights into Frankfurt came in less than flights to London.

So get creative, try oprn jaw, vary your dates a bit. But don't expect the fares to go down much if at all.

I have been tracking fares on one airline ( British) for particular dates in July (2 to 17) for 3 months now, looking at RT London and Zurich. The fare is the highest I have ever seen and has not varied since early January,,apart from minor variations due to currency fluctuations. SEA to LHR has stayed above $1800 (!), with SEA to Zurich ( with a stop at LHR) about $200 LESS. Both fares are about $400 more than what I have seen (and paid) for summer travel in the past.

Lola
Seattle, WA 3/19/13
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RE: naples to palermo

As you've no doubt discovered, Volotea's flight times may not match your needs and they don't fly Naples-Palermo every day. According to the search engine skyscanner.com, you'll have many flights from which to choose if you fly Alitalia.

Tim
Minneapolis, MN USA 3/19/13
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RE: Travel Agent in Prague

Unfortunately Eastern Europe is not about customer service... even in a 5 star hotel you as the client are treated like a supplicant...

But if you're using one of the big E-Mail services like Gmail, Yahoo etc. your mail might have gone straight into their spam filter indeed. You might want to give them a quick call and ask for a personal E-Mail address of a person that is in charge for rail reservations.

Sorry, but that's all I can do.

Andreas
Frankfurt am Main Germany 3/19/13
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RE: Is the Ebenalp Cable car to Berggasthaus Aescher open early May

Dear Vera,

I am not sure of the cable car information but I can say that we stayed here two summers ago and it was incredible, fantastic, and one of the most memorable stays of the 21 days trip. The hike from the lift to the hut was not hard and it was a beautiful little hike. The family who runs the hut are very kind and they cook delicious food!! Sleeping in the dorm type setting in these huge lofts with super cozy down comforters was so restful. I hope you plan to stay the night. It's something you will never forget.

Carol

Carol
Lynn, MA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Are trains still running in Greece?

Thanks Douglas and Alan for your replies and useful information. Getting more excvited about our trip by the minute! Janet

janet
sonoma, california usa 3/19/13
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RE: Buying a car or purchasing a Eurorail pass in Europe

Back in the day, when boomers were young, that was one of the favorite ways of getting around Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. People just stood in front of the now defunct American Express offices, buying and selling cars, picking up riders, etc. VW vans.

Edit: To be clear, those were cash transactions between travelers, not locals, and the registrations were not always in order, much less the insurance.
Peace and love.

Bets
Bloomington 3/19/13
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Family bikeriding Provence - July

I am trying to figure out a nice safe, bike route for a family. We are parents with children ages 9, 10, and 13. I would love to hear about a route, mabey through the Lavender areas and near a small town. We are staying in Isle Sur La Sorgue and can drive anywhere to pick up bikes in an area where there is a great route. I am thinking of riding to one of the small towns on market day, getting some picnic supplies, riding along the countryside and then having a lunch picnic somewhere. I just want to plan a great bikeriding itinerary that is safe for biking on the roads with no major hills. Any ideas?? Thanks for your time.

Caroline

Carol
Lynn, MA USA 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

You won't need a "special" kind of ATM card for Europe. Your regular ATM card will work just fine. If you search this forum for "chip and pin" you'll learn that Europe uses chip and pin credit/debit cards now, which is a technology that's still hard to find in N. America. But stores will take your "swipe strip and signature" credit cards. The places you probably can't use your regular credit/debit cards tend to be automated gasoline pumps, and automated ticket kiosks (my friends said the ones in France were a problem).

I would never photocopy my credit/debit cards, front or back - you're in deep do-do if those copies fall into the wrong hands. Just make a note of the phone number(s) to call in case of loss/theft/transaction denial.

I scan my passport info page into a pdf file and email it to myself, so it's accessible from any internet-connected computer in the world.

I often prepare a single document with my flight, hotel and other itinerary information. I email it to myself. I've also sent it to my Kindle account so it's on my Kindle. Now that I have a smartphone I can just download the document to the phone from email.

Best advice I ever got was: Take a suitcase full of money and a pocket full of clothes.

Suz
Denver USA 3/19/13
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RE: 3 packed days in London

We hit the Tower of London on our 1st trip in 2008...I think we got there maybe 60-90 min before closing, debated going in, took the plunge...managed to see the Crown Jewels and maybe about 1/3 of what we thought looked interesting...I would say at last 2.5-3hrs minimum for ToL...

Nicole
Truro, NS Canada 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

" I keep reading about pick pockets & purse snatchersfanny pack a must or small backpack ok??"

Actually, my recommendation would be a cross body "messenger bag style" of bag - safer than a backpack, and more useful (and more fashionable) than a fanny pack. How much pickpockets and purse snatchers are a problem will depend on where you're going and where you're coming from certainly the problem exists in the US too, though distracted tourists are always more at risk, anywhere in the world. As always, be aware of your surroundings and minimize your distractions, but don't let your worry get in the way of enjoying yourself.

As for things like tweezers in case your card gets stuck in an ATM.......do you carry them at home in case your card gets stuck? Why would you think it's more likely to happen there, and if it is a common occurrance, don't you think someone nearby would help?

Kia
Toronto, ON Canada 3/19/13
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naples to palermo

Hello Fellow Travel Enthusiasts~
My husband and I will be on the Amalfi Coast in October. We would like to fly from Naples to Palermo for the day for some sightseeing. Ideally, we would leave in the morning and fly back later that evening. I found a company that would supply transportation to and from Naples, as well as sightseeing in Palermo but they do not coordinate flights or overnights if needed.
I checked out Volotea and the flights were very reasonable, but I couldn't seem to book same day travel.
In a nutshell, we would like to experience Sicily while we are there. Does anyone know of an agency that could put together a reasonably priced day trip from Naples or a reasonably priced overnight flight package (include hotel) that I could look into? We are traveling from Boston to Italy via Alitalia and when I looked into this trip, they redirected me to Delta for "vacation packages" and it wouldn't allow me to book an Italy to Italy package...
Any suggestions would be appreciated!

elise
boston 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Stuttgart to Paris

You can book STR to Paris 92 days out on the dbahn website. 3hr40min with quick stops in Karlsruhe, Strasbourg, then straight on to Paris. Stuttgart to Geneva is 5-6 hrs and you have to change trains in Zurich and it's not on the way at all.

Kathy
Germany Germany 3/19/13
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RE: How dangerous is Paris driving

Thank you everyone. This is all great information. 94 days to go.

Carol
Lynn, MA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Young Adult 2 week Trip

Ian, no one can answer this question for you. You and your sister need to get some guide books and decide which has more to offer to you, Rome or Barcelona. Make a list of what you want to see and do in each city and base your choice off of that. We can't tell you which you'd like more since we don't know you.

Donna

donna
cranberry twp, PA United States 3/19/13
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RE: Eurail Pass or Regional?

Frank,

I'll assume your question was rhetorical, but "safe" was probably the wrong word. "Certain" might be better, since this is my first trip to Europe and I'm trying to eliminate uncertainties. The information Lee and Sam gave me did that.

Mike

Mike
Winter Haven, Florida USA 3/19/13
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RE: Eurail Pass or Regional?

Lee and Sam,

Thanks for the great information! You clarified what I saw on the Bahn site and added the logistics of buying the ticket is a bonus. Awesome! By the way, I did realize I would need a bus or taxi to Buchloe to catch the train, so the bus information is good to know, too.

Thanks again!

Mike

Mike
Winter Haven, Florida USA 3/19/13
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RE: Viking River Cruises

Yes, Budapest-- just a typo.

Judy
Augusta, GA 3/19/13
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help with Venice trip

We're hoping to go to Venice for 8-10 days in July, with some side trips as well. We're thinking of getting an apartment for part of that time in Venice. First-which neighborhood would be good for an apartment? Should we avoid a first floor one because of the smell of the canal (and how bad is that in July)? What side trips would you recommend? (We like off-the-beaten track sorts of places). Is it better to stay in Italy for day trips, or should we go for a few days to Llubljana? What other tips would you have for our trip? Thanks!

vicky
farmington, ME USA 3/19/13
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13 Days in Switzerland - car or train

My husband and I will be arriving in Zurich at the end of the summer and plan to travel throughout Switzerland. We have traveled in Europe before but only to Luzerne. We are not adverse to renting a car for the entire trip and taking some short train trips. However, we would like some advise regarding the use of cars and trains. What would make the most sense, in the way of transportation throughout the country. Thank you.

Susan
Harrisburg, PA USA 3/19/13
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RE: Where to stay in Dublin

Thanks everyone! We are going to be in Dublin from Sept 16-19. I wanted to book early to get the best deal and have more options.

Tanya
Rochester, Mn Usa 3/19/13
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RE: First Trip To Europe - Itinerary Check

I agree with dropping out a stop (Switzerland makes sense to me as well) and I also want to point out that each of the remaining - London, Paris, Venice, Rome - are great transportation hubs if you want to take a spontaneous half-day trip. Please check into the Parks and plan a picnic...so much fun to mingle with locals, let the kids play and relax.

Susan
Meridian 3/19/13
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RE: Romantic Road in August should we??????

The RR is often an unromantic traffic jam in summer. And yeah - you can easily avoid Bavaria find lots of gorgeous and interesting towns elsewhere, and in northern and central Germany too. For example... these handsome towns aren't far from Hanover:

Celle - Hameln - Rinteln - Hildesheim - Goslar

A bit further south near Kassel, you'll find Hannoversch Münden with over 700 half-timbered buildings:

Hannoversch Münden

The "Half-timbered Road" or "Fachwerkstrasse" site is worth your attention:
Fachwerkstrasse

The "Fairytale" Road or "Märchenstrasse" includes some of the above towns and others as well:

Märchenstrasse

Russ
Paradise 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

THANKS ALL!! Photo copying documents is a great idea..I guess I was thinking more of the things you don't normally travel with, like a special plug or special atm card for use over there. Have read many say tweezers for atm machines in case cards get stuck. I take it that there are UPS places to send home trinkets bought--good to know!! I keep reading about pick pockets & purse snatchers--fanny pack a must or small backpack ok??

Kris
Garden City, KS USA 3/19/13
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RE: eurostar Paris to London

We always get the printout sent by email to our home computer. That will serve as your ticket that is scanned to get on the train. We always print off two copies and each of us carry both copies of the printout, just in case. Tickets go on sale 120 days prior to travel so you might not get the cheap seats. You can buy a carnet (packet of 10) tickets for the Paris metro at the departure lounge at St. Pancras or also on the train in the snack car. Saves standing in line in Paris. You can also your seats and it's a LONG train. To beat the crowds to the taxi rank in Paris, we the 2nd class car closest to the engine which means you will have a long slog to your carriage. There is an engine on both ends so determine the line of departure and choose accordingly. Upon arrival you will have a short jaunt to the taxi rank, on your right as you disembark and walk into Gare du Nord. We always take a taxi (around 20 Euros to just about anywhere in central Paris) to our hotel even though we know the metro. The ride across central Paris with the famous monuments in full view is always stunning.

George
Independence, KS USA 3/19/13
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RE: Ferry Issues

Besides the frequent flyer miles we accrue, the great thing about a credit card is that you can dispute a charge, like this one. Call the CC company today and dispute it. Give them the details of your dispute and let them do the legwork. We have always prevailed when disputing a charge--Visa, Mastercard, or American Express. Most of us that travel overseas have done the same thing or been routed to a ticket we didn't want. Not to worry. :-)

George
Independence, KS USA 3/19/13
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RE: Recharging iPhone3 in Italy

I bring a few plug adapters (bought at the RS travel store) and attach them to each electronic device - cuts down on the possibility of losing them.

Zoe
Toledo, Ohio US 3/19/13
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RE: top needed things to pack

Meds, passport, money, documents should be in your carryon, never packed in luggage that you may need to check. One thing I attach and put a copy of inside is my local address (hotel) and contact info in case the bag gets lost or misplaced, but I haven't checked a bag in years.

Zoe
Toledo, Ohio US 3/19/13
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RE: Tips for speaking English abroad

I don't detect an accent in the RS videos but I do hear a very clipped, enunciated speech. I think it may be that most people in Europe learn English from Brits, so that way of speaking might seem easier to understand.

Zoe
Toledo, Ohio US 3/19/13
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RE: Tour Guides in Rome

Thanks Natalie! I will check out your link.
Steve

Steve
Oakville, Ontario Canada 3/19/13
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RE: Buying a car or purchasing a Eurorail pass in Europe

"I would like to know if any other travelers have any imput or experience with purchasing a car." Yes. I had to present proof that I legally work and reside in Europe (because the car was not intended for immediate export), my German driver's license, and auto insurance that covered Europe. And because I'm not a European citizen, I needed to have special documents prepared for the tax deferral... which reminds me, if you buy a car here as a non-citizen, don't export it, and sell it less than 6 months later, you're going to get a big tax bill.

Others have already pointed out that you can't just stop the car anywhere to sleep. Expect to wake up with a police officer shining a light in your face.

I suggest you read more about advanced purchase rail discounts and the option of leasing a car.

Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 3/19/13
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RE: Tour Guides in Rome

Hi Steve,

I live in Rome and always send my visitors on the Colosseum tour with Roman Empire Tours. They have small groups and friendly, knowledgeable guides. I've done it twice myself and my sister will be on the tour this Friday!

http://www.romanempiretours.com/

Natalie
Rome 3/19/13
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RE: Buying a car or purchasing a Eurorail pass in Europe

Then there's the anticipated fun of selling a car which was registered in Spain in Italy.

Nigel
East Midlands England 3/19/13
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RE: Ferry Issues

Julene, sorry to hear of your difficulty.

Do you think you were tricked into buying that product? Had you previously entered your credit card and then they changed what you were buying?

Have you spoken to your credit card issuer?

Nigel
East Midlands England 3/19/13
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RE: Cinque Terre over Easter

Monterosso has a lovely beach but weather forecast predicts temperatures in the 40's so swimming might not be a good idea. A boat trip to Portovenere would be a great way to see all five cities with a bonus of the equally pretty Portovenere. Otherwise what does one do in Italy? Shop, eat, look around and enjoy life?

Kimberly
Haugesund Norway 3/19/13
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RE: Cinque Terre on Easter

We were in Tuscany 2 years ago at Easter and everything was open and running normally. Seemed actually a bit busier than normal.

Kimberly
Haugesund Norway 3/19/13
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RE: Turkey for one week - enough time for Istanbul +++?

Maybe I'm in the minority here, but I felt my 3.5 days in Istanbul were more than adequate to cover the city. Sure, it's a sprawling city with tons to do, and you could possibly spend a whole week there. (It's like that old addage of tasks taking as much time as you have. I feel that way about Istanbul. You can tour it in as little or as much time as you have.) To make the most of your time, you might want to consider some 1/2 day or evening tours. I can give more details about what we did if you're interested.

There are many tour companies offering 3 day excursions to Cappadoccia from Istanbul, and I would expect that Istanbul + Cappadocia would make for a great week.

Dina
Fontainebleau France 3/19/13
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RE: 2.5 hours in Ephesus- Enough time?

IME, 2.5 hours is a good amount to tour the place. If you are really into photography, you may need more time. There are so many great things to see, and photographing it all will add time.

I would suggest you go to www.cruisecritic.com and look at the ports of call messageboards to get some recommendations for companies that do tours/transportation from Kusadasi. I'd also suggest you join your roll call for your particular sailing. On the roll call, you can see if you can join in a private tour group, which is possibly less expensive than the transportation option you are looking at. You could then contact that company and see if they'll allow you to tour on your own and meet up with the group at the end of their tour to transfer back to the ship.

Dina
Fontainebleau France 3/19/13
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RE: Different kind of trip

If you are considering a stay in the Netherlands as part of your trip, you could pick a village around the Veluwe National Park for a stay. They have many rental homes there and April is still "shoulder season". It is easy to cycle within the park and very pleasant during that time, when it is not raining.

You could also consider renting a house somewhere near the dunes between Zandvoort and Katwijk, at the heart of the flower fields, which will be blossoming around that time.

Alpine areas are a bit complicated and not recommended that time of the year because it is melting and thaw season, so most trails are closed and many lifts and gondolas closed for transitioning to summer mode.

If Southern Italy is in your plans, you should consider Modica or Ragusa as a nice town to stay. It is hilly, but a very interesting region to stay.

It is also still time to spend some days on the Portuguese Mediterranean coast before the summer crowds arrive.

If you can afford it, a good plan could be to lease a car from Renault Drive or other similar plans for your whole stay. That would increase your "range" for possible accommodations, make it easier for you to drop off/pick up your spouse when he is travelling for work at the nearest airport.

Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 3/19/13
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RE: Buying a car or purchasing a Eurorail pass in Europe

Just a few comments.

'3 months in the EU and 1 month in the other countries' - I think you have done some research and may have discovered, but if you have done this properly it should read -
90 days in the Schengen area and 1 month in the countries outside.

'I have been trying to find out if I can buy a cheap dependable car in Spain ' Have you any of these? If not you cannot.
An official residence permit.
Proof that you are a Spanish home owner.
Documentation as proof of being a registered inhabitant of a town in Spain.
A rental contract for a duration of minimum one year.
An NIE/NIF number.
'buying a car as a foreigner in whatever country' or similar as a google will probably give the above, similarly for France.
'I have discovered that I can' - Where? Or link please.

Obviously I have no idea how you have made your calculations or compared rail pass purchase and come to the conclusion you have, but in order to do this you must have had some fixed rail journeys and in that case I strongly suggest you read this - http://www.seat61.com/Railpass-and-Eurail-pass-guide.htm#Should

Typing at the same time as the immediately above was posting.

Neil
Whittington 3/19/13
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RE: 5 days London itinerary

You will want to get your Eurostar tickets as soon as you can. Tickets are available for purchase up to 120 days out and prices rise considerably as you approach your day of departure.

Nancy
London UK 3/19/13
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RE: Purchase tix in advance for London attractions? / Bike tour

I would do the Fat Tire bike tour on Sunday. There is less traffic that day as well as The Mall (street that leads up to Buckingham) is closed and open to bikes and pedestrians.

Nancy
London UK 3/19/13
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RE: Buying a car or purchasing a Eurorail pass in Europe

I don't know about legislation in all EU countries, but I can assure in many of them you simply cannot register and insure a car as a tourist, without a resident permit and/or civic registration number.

Honest dealers will not sell you a car knowing that, not-so-honest dealers will sell you a car you can't drive, legally.

US$ 1000 would get you mostly a piece of crap much worse than what you'd get at this price in US, since the second-hand market for used cars in EU is hotter (many exports by land to Eastern Europe, Caucasus, Balkans etc)

That piece of crap would be subject to expensive registration fees that are tied to pollution/emission standards in many country. And they are charged per year.

Europe has far less "wild camping" than in US, you can't just park your car and sleep inside. Also, the US$ 1000 to purchase the car would be the least of your financial concerns, parking and fuel are expensive, and so are tolls in some countries like France and Italy. Very expensive (often on the US$ 0,15-0,20/mile range).

Mind you, I love driving in Europe and taking car trips around, but it is not something to make you save a lot of money. You do it for the scenery/experience/autonomy/freedom of the road, not for saving every penny.

Finally, these are not your only feasible options. Smart advance-purchasing of rail tickets and low-cost flights and limiting your intra-European change of destinations (like spending at least 5 nights every place you visit) are more feasible alternatives to save money.

Andre L.
Tilburg Netherlands 3/19/13
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RE: How dangerous is Paris driving

Given your driving history, I'd say you'll be fine. There are two things that might be a little different: roundabouts and "priority à droit." Nowadays, almost all roundabouts give priority to the person exiting (and you often see a sign which says, "Vous n'avez pas la priorité" which means you have to yield to those exiting. If there are two lanes for entering the roundabout, the rules (which are followed if someone wants to LOL) are that you enter on the right hand land if you're exiting in the first half, and enter in the left hand lane if you're exiting on the second half (and you're *supposed* to use your left turn signal to indicate you're driving around most of it). However, occassionally you'll find one with solid and dashe lines painted on the streets around the roundabout, and that means you have priority to enter, and have to wait til it's clear to exit.

"Priority à droit" means the person coming from your right has priority. It can take some getting used to. You'll be driving along and have to yield to the person coming from the side street on your right. And that person can hold up traffic if they're turning left, because they can only get halfway across until they ahve to wait to yield to the traffic coming from their right (which is the traffic going in the opposite direction of you - hope that makes sense)! This is quite common on the western side of Paris and in the suburbs. Also big in small towns around France.

Bon chance!

Dina
Fontainebleau France 3/19/13
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RE: Romantic Road in August should we??????

What route are you taking from Germany to Stockholm and Copenhagen? I ask because if you're worried about tourist crowds, there are many, MANY substitutes you could take for the Romantic Road towns that wouldn't be nearly as innundated with tour buses as, say, Rothenburg. The Romantic Road is only one of about 100 tourist theme routes that criss-cross Germany, but for some reason, it's the one that gets all the attentino from foreign visitors. Depending on what you had planned, it might fit your trip better to concentrate on central or northern Germany.

Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 3/19/13
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RE: Train from Stuttgart to Paris

There's no reason to get a rail pass for this trip (or almost all trips). Just buy your tickets in advanced directly from the national rail companies (Deutsche Bahn, TGV, SBB, etc). If you can commit to riding at a specific time and date, you can save a significant amount of money.

"I'm not sure if I'll go direct, or stop in Geneva on the way." Is that because you want to stop in Geneva? Because Geneva is considerably out of your direct line of travel. Trains between Stuttgart and Paris probably route through Mannheim and Saarbrucken, both of which are nowhere near Geneva.

Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 3/19/13
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RE: trip with grandkids...

Having traveled all over with kids those ages, and having done several trips with my parents along as well, my first suggestion would be Rome + Venice. You may stretch the budget on Venice, but it was one of my kids' favorite places in Europe so far. They also really liked Rome. (Who wouldn't like a country known for pizza and gelato?) Book far enough in advance, and you can get some good train fares between the two cities when traveling with kids. And the high speed train through Italy is definitely an experience in itself.

Second choice would be Paris in an apartment for the whole week.

French Riviera area could be good for a mix of museums, culture and the beautiful Mediterranean. Book far enough in advance and you can get some good prices on stays in residence-apartments in the Cannes LaBocca area - which makes a good base for exploring the region via train and bus. Plus, going to the public beach is a free, kid-friendly experience.

London could be an absolute budget-killer. One good thing for you is that if your kids are those ages next year (and not already 11), they'll travel free on public transportation when accompanied by an adult.

If you want to see more of "Europe" versus just one city, my off-the-wall suggestion would be to look for a good deal on a Med cruise. Kids sail free, or 99€ fares on an inside cabin could net you a really good deal. DIY it in ports to save money and it can be reasonable. We've done it for under $100/person/day, which included our costs with getting to/from the ship, but that was within Europe.

Dina
Fontainebleau France 3/19/13
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RE: Munich, In late August, or during Oktoberfest?

Temperatures are unpredictable this far out. In August, it can be mild or you could get hit with a brief heat wave. Late September is usually very pleasent.

Except during Oktoberfest, I wouldn't worry about Munich being overrun with tourists. It's the 3rd largest city in Germany, so at any given time, tourists are a tiny minority compared to the citizens. Although I've never visited in August, from what I understand, the sites there never become nearly as congested as some of the popular museums in Rome or Paris.

Tom
Hüttenfeld, Hessen Germany 3/19/13
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Europe in Fall. Start with Norway or Scotland/Ireland?

We are planning a 4 1/2 month trip to Europe starting end of July. We are going to Norway first(maybe)since we thought it would be coldest. This however will start our Schengen clock ticking so we will head down and around the continent ending up in Scotland/England/Ireland. Which would be the best country of those three to end the trip and not freeze or should we do it the other way around starting out of Schengen area? We will be leaving around mid-Dec. Thanks!

Sherrie
Penang, Pinang Malaysia 3/19/13
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Train from Stuttgart to Paris

I need to purchase rail tickets for early September. I'll be flying into Stuttgart. After a week in Stuttgart, I'm planning to take a train to Paris. I'm not sure if I'll go direct, or stop in Geneva on the way. Any suggestions on what pass I should get for these destinations?

Thank you!

Joseph
Chicago, IL USA 3/19/13
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RE: switzerland

we are in neuchatel.
one thought is a day skiing, since it is march!

shelly
redding, ca usa 3/19/13
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RE: GENERAL EASTERN EUROPE DRIVING QUESTION

Dont stay in skopje stay in Ohrid, skip Sofia and use that day in plovdiv or even better Edirne

Matthew
Kihei, HI United States 3/19/13
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