So, lets say the Lusti household plans a June euro tour vacation, one of those guided tours that include Rome :pope:, Paris :frog: and London :bowler:. They include a free day in each of those cities. What to do those days?
Here is what we (read The Wife) are looking at: http://monograms.com/Booking/Monograms/Product.aspx?trip=5DRR
Two adults and a teenager, the little one does not want to go, so I'll save that money. :D
Any languish volunteer tour guides? :P
This is kinda fast, isn't it? I'd rather spend all ten days in one of the places. But could be fun.
As somebody who's never been outside of North America, I'm the perfect person to plan your trip for you.
So- Trevi fountain, Versailles, Buckingham Palace. Plus anywhere that's convenient to stop along the way.
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on February 17, 2015, 11:27:34 PM
This is kinda fast, isn't it? I'd rather spend all ten days in one of the places. But could be fun.
Yeah, but money and time limits us, I would spend a whole week in each country, and add a few countries while we are at it. :lol:
And the guided day in Paris does not include the Louvre, so I guess that takes care of the Paris free day.
One day in London I took a train out to Kent and saw Hever. There's probably tons of things like that. Or you could be safe and see the IWM, British Museum and Greenwich. None of those appear to be on the itinerary.
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 17, 2015, 11:36:22 PM
And the guided day in Paris does not include the Louvre, so I guess that takes care of the Paris free day.
Depending on the weather, I think I'd go to Versailles with a free day rather than the Louvre.
An idea that is maybe questionable because it involves more traveling, but a really excellent day trip from London is Portsmouth with the Naval Yard: it has the Mary Rose (a raised Tutor era warship) and the Victory (Nelson's flagship), among others. If you want to stay in London, there is a replica of the Golden Hind (what Sir Francis Drake circumnavigated the globe in) nearby the reconstructed Globe Theatre.
I sort of agree with MIM that I'd rather spend the time in one city rather than try to hit all 3, but I get the appeal of doing it this way.
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on February 17, 2015, 11:48:13 PM
One day in London I took a train out to Kent and saw Hever. There's probably tons of things like that. Or you could be safe and see the IWM, British Museum and Greenwich. None of those appear to be on the itinerary.
I definitely wouldn't try to cram in too many museums--you can spend days in the British Museum or the Louvre. They have tours and programs that hit the highlights of the museums--something like that would be a good idea.
Other ideas: see if you can find a sporting event to attend, go to a pub and let the teenager roam about on his own.
I won't do all three places in 10 days. Too rushed. Two is maximum for me. London and Paris is the best combination because of Eurostar, so I'll get rid of Rome.
I love the Invalids in Paris. Excellent military museum. Louvre is also a must-see.
Depends on your taste and the weather. There are so many options but personally I'd recommend this for a day in London:
- have breakfast in the Shard or at Borough marker
- a stroll along the South Bank to the the Tate Modern or the millennium wheel on the southbank depending on whether you are in the mood
- river bus along the Thames to Greenwich
- lot of options in Greenwich - Cutty Sark, Maritime Museum (in a beautiful building), market, park with the Royal Observatory and the meridian
- boat or train back to Town. Have dinner in the wonderful art deco Brasserie Zedel or the Criterion (depending on hwo flush you are), Piccadilly and catch a show (Book of Mormon is great if you haven't seen in in the State).
It really feels way too rushed, one of this "If today is tuesday we're in Belgium" package holidays. If it was possible I'd try to narrow it down to two of those three cities at most, although I understand the desire to make the most of the trip.
The day in Rome is extremely rushed and I would use one day for St. Peter and the Vatican museum and another day for Forum Romanum, Colloseum, Palatium, Circus Maximus. I wouldn't go to the catacombs and instead see the Spanish stairs, Pantheon, I Jesu, Capitoleum museums...
What the other people said. One day only for any of these three cities is something only Asians can pull out while taking lots of photos.
Remember, London and Paris are only 2h15 away by train, faster and way more convenient than plane, despite a small check-inmm at Gare du Nord and St Pancrace.
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on February 17, 2015, 11:48:13 PM
the IWM, British Museum and Greenwich. None of those appear to be on the itinerary.
In one day? I guess he better brings his gun to keep his family on the move during that death march. :lol:
But yeah you should select one city and stick with it. Maybe camp in London and train over to Paris for one day.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on February 18, 2015, 05:25:33 AM
What the other people said. One day only for any of these three cities is something only Asians can pull out while taking lots of photos.
Remember, London and Paris are only 2h15 away by train, faster and way more convenient than plane, despite a small checking at Gare du Nord and St Pancrace.
It's 3 days per city with two days being guided and one day free. Still a rush but not all that bad.
depending on wether or not you go to Rome it might be interesting to know that
a) every first Sunday of the month a good number of museums and sites are free to visit
b) that the ticket for the Forum, Palatine Hill and Colosseum is the same for all three
c) that if you want to visit the Colloseum you better get your ticket at either the Forum or the Palatine
d) you can then bypass the endless line (biggest we saw was a quarter of the circumference of the Colloseum, equalling hours and hours of waiting!)
e) the Colosseum really is what it's name implies.
and
f) the Historical Centre of Rome (post Roman Rome) is really close by
Lusti whatever you do, avoid that small roundabout near Lambeth Bridge.
"Hey look kids, there's Big Ben, and there's Parliament... again."
You could visit a certain battlefield :whistle:
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcdn4.vtourist.com%2F19%2F4511728-Looking_from_the_heart_of_Kellerman_to_the_mill_Valmy.jpg&hash=9ec89706fad9913ad519ef67071a698e17560038)
I like that Languish has turned out to tell Lusti that there is simply too much to see in a free day and he should try and change the package. :lol:
Use your one free day in each city to camp out in a cafe patio and people watch.
I have to agree it's too much in too little time. I'd probably drop Rome as well.
And if money is a constraint, why are you paying so much for it?
It doesn't even include flights, so it's just accommodation, the Eurostar and a guide?
The errors in the description don't inspire much confidence in the latter.
Rome is stinkingly hot and really thronged with tourists in June. Or it was last June when I was there anyway. OTOH, pretty much every girl between 16 and 35 was wearing those tiny shorts.
This is why I posted this. I also think it is a bit rushed. But I also have a small budget for this and would like my son to see as much as I can get him to see.
The original idea was a week+ in Italy, Rome, Florence and Venice. I've been to Rome already, so I'm good there, sucks for The Wife and son. LOL
Quote from: Tamas on February 18, 2015, 05:25:53 AM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on February 17, 2015, 11:48:13 PM
the IWM, British Museum and Greenwich. None of those appear to be on the itinerary.
In one day? I guess he better brings his gun to keep his family on the move during that death march. :lol:
I'm not allowed :(
Quote from: Tamas on February 18, 2015, 05:25:53 AM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on February 17, 2015, 11:48:13 PM
the IWM, British Museum and Greenwich. None of those appear to be on the itinerary.
In one day? I guess he better brings his gun to keep his family on the move during that death march. :lol:
I've done those all in a long afternoon, thought I had a bike with me, so it was easy. :bowler:
Quote from: mongers on February 18, 2015, 09:43:10 AM
Quote from: Tamas on February 18, 2015, 05:25:53 AM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on February 17, 2015, 11:48:13 PM
the IWM, British Museum and Greenwich. None of those appear to be on the itinerary.
In one day? I guess he better brings his gun to keep his family on the move during that death march. :lol:
I've done those all in a long afternoon, thought I had a bike with me, so it was easy. :bowler:
I was in the British museum for a long afternoon and didn't even finish the ground floor. :blush:
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 09:26:36 AM
This is why I posted this. I also think it is a bit rushed. But I also have a small budget for this and would like my son to see as much as I can get him to see.
The original idea was a week+ in Italy, Rome, Florence and Venice. I've been to Rome already, so I'm good there, sucks for The Wife and son. LOL
A week+, that's still too much. I'd stick to Tuscany or the Veneto. Seeing as much as possible is only limited by time, not by distance covered.
If you have a small budget, plan it yourself. Lose the guides and the preselected accommodation and travel options.
Or tell a travel company what you do want and have them take care of it.
On the side of recognizing Lusti that you aren't an independently wealthy family with months to take a grand tour, I think you could do a nice go of highlights in London and Paris in a week+. Sure there is plenty you won't have some time to see but you'll be able to see some cool things / expose your kid to cool things. :)
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 09:26:36 AM
This is why I posted this. I also think it is a bit rushed. But I also have a small budget for this and would like my son to see as much as I can get him to see.
The original idea was a week+ in Italy, Rome, Florence and Venice. I've been to Rome already, so I'm good there, sucks for The Wife and son. LOL
Lusti, I bet it would be a lot cheaper to do this on your own. If you were to fly into London, and out of Paris, 5 days in each, your savings would probably put you well on your way to Rome next year. :)
In Paris if you stay out of the central city it is actually not that expensive, and the metro can take you right into the center. But in London, unless there is some trick I don't know about, you are fucked. :(
I agree that it is quite easy to book your own hotels. Try it, and compare if it is cheaper than the package.
Quote from: Monoriu on February 18, 2015, 10:10:16 AM
I agree that it is quite easy to book your own hotels. Try it, and compare if it is cheaper than the package.
It is easy. And it isn't rocket science to figure out how to get from the airport to your hotel, or how to use the metro (taxis get ungodly expensive quickly), or how to get to various destinations, or a decent place to eat, etc. But you put all those together, and it starts to get to be a lot of work and invariably something goes wrong, and you end up missing a train and somehow end up in the wrong city, etc. I think of that as no big deal and often a funny story, but then I'm not going with a wife and kid whose reaction be to get very annoyed and whine for the rest of the trip.
However, I'm sure people here who would help lusti with that stuff.
Some great stuff, I sure hope CF is reading thise before she pulls the trigger. Regarding planning everything to save money, for me time is money, I need to pay the tour company to plan all this shit for me, I don't have the time to do so.
I travel by myself with the military and go see places without a plan, but I will not drag The Wife and Lazy Teenager like that. For example, I saw Rome in a day, basically dawn to dusk, walked the whole thing, saw everything mentioned. I've done the same in Germany, New Zealand, New York, DC etc. I have no problem with busses, trains and subways by myself, but with the family? Don't think so.
Thanks again guys. CF, you better be reading all this!
Rome wasn't sawn in a day, you know.
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 17, 2015, 11:31:49 PM
Quote from: MadImmortalMan on February 17, 2015, 11:27:34 PM
This is kinda fast, isn't it? I'd rather spend all ten days in one of the places. But could be fun.
Yeah, but money and time limits us, I would spend a whole week in each country, and add a few countries while we are at it. :lol:
Yeah but since your time and money is limited trying to take in everything wont let you see anything properly. If you really must go to more than one spot then at least limit your self to London and Paris so you don't spend most of one day travelling to Rome.
Unless you're travelling to really fancy hotels the price tag seems a bit on the expensive side of things...
I like neither of those cities. Europe has better.
Quote from: Tyr on February 18, 2015, 01:32:11 PM
I like neither of those cities. Europe has better.
Yeah but your negative opinion should be taken with a grain of salt...well really a salt lick. :P
Quote from: garbon on February 18, 2015, 01:33:07 PM
Quote from: Tyr on February 18, 2015, 01:32:11 PM
I like neither of those cities. Europe has better.
Yeah but your negative opinion should be taken with a grain of salt...well really a salt lick. :P
I didn't just say those places are bad. I said other places are better.
Venice, Siena and Bologna are better than Rome.
Edinburgh, York, Cornwall, etc... are better than London
Paris....well I can't think of anywhere in France that I particularly like (I've only been to Paris, Lyon and some places I've forgot in the north). So I will just say Austria, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic are better.
Quote from: Tyr on February 18, 2015, 01:35:36 PM
Paris....well I can't think of anywhere in France that I particularly like (I've only been to Paris, Lyon and some places I've forgot in the north). So I will just say Austria, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic are better.
:frusty:
Quote from: Tyr on February 18, 2015, 01:35:36 PM
I didn't just say those places are bad. I said other places are better.
Venice, Siena and Bologna are better than Rome.
Edinburgh, York, Cornwall, etc... are better than London
Paris....well I can't think of anywhere in France that I particularly like. So I will just say Austria, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic are better.
If you are talking about a place to live or spend a couple months, maybe so. But for a few days sightseeing London, Paris, and Rome outclass those other places.
Thank you Tyr, your opinion helps me greatly to make up my mind and be sure I go to Rome, Paris and London. :)
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 11:21:25 AM
Regarding planning everything to save money, for me time is money, I need to pay the tour company to plan all this shit for me, I don't have the time to do so.
That makes sense.
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 01:42:18 PM
Thank you Tyr, your opinion helps me greatly to make up my mind and be sure I go to Rome, Paris and London. :)
So you weren't tempted to do a family vacation to Siena, Cornwall, and York? :P
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 11:21:25 AM
Some great stuff, I sure hope CF is reading thise before she pulls the trigger. Regarding planning everything to save money, for me time is money, I need to pay the tour company to plan all this shit for me, I don't have the time to do so.
I travel by myself with the military and go see places without a plan, but I will not drag The Wife and Lazy Teenager like that. For example, I saw Rome in a day, basically dawn to dusk, walked the whole thing, saw everything mentioned. I've done the same in Germany, New Zealand, New York, DC etc. I have no problem with busses, trains and subways by myself, but with the family? Don't think so.
Thanks again guys. CF, you better be reading all this!
I'd actually kind of like to take a package tour one of these days.
I've been to Europe three times now. First two times we only had a vague idea of our itinerary - no reservations, just winging it. Except on the second trip Mrs B would really start freaking out about not knowing what's going to happen next, or where we would stay. So third trip we had a day-by-day itinerary, with everything reserved in advance. Mrs B was much better, but still got concerned at times.
So I think next time I'd almost prefer to take a pre-packaged tour, where everything is planned out to the minute.
Quote from: alfred russel on February 18, 2015, 01:44:42 PM
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 01:42:18 PM
Thank you Tyr, your opinion helps me greatly to make up my mind and be sure I go to Rome, Paris and London. :)
So you weren't tempted to do a family vacation to Siena, Cornwall, and York? :P
Yeah, but on the way back from Kabul, Mogadishu and on the way to Port a Prince.
I don't think a package is so bad i.e. getting someone (a travel agent) to sort out the travel and hotel arrangements for you but I'd draw the line on going those appalling guided tours with the colour coded t-shirts etc.
Quote from: Gups on February 18, 2015, 02:03:11 PM
I don't think a package is so bad i.e. getting someone (a travel agent) to sort out the travel and hotel arrangements for you but I'd draw the line on going those appalling guided tours with the colour coded t-shirts etc.
What is so appalling about getting educated on what you are looking at?
Quote from: alfred russel on February 18, 2015, 01:44:42 PM
So you weren't tempted to do a family vacation to Siena, Cornwall, and York? :P
Cornwall is very popular with middle aged German women, thanks to all those Rosamunde Pilcher movies on German TV that are set there. :P
Cornwall is beautiful. Lots of rich Londoners have their second home there.
And some of the best holidays of my childhood were in Yorkshire. It has some very nice areas. York is really a place anyone into history should visit at some point.
Siena too was great. Anybody who is in the area should ignore the crowds heading to Florence and spend a day there instead.
I wasn't suggesting those particular places though. Just saying there are much nicer places to visit in Europe than the 3 mentioned and I've yet to visit highly rated big places like Madrid or Berlin. Some variety from capitals would be an improvement too.
Madrid is fantastic. :)
Quote from: Valmy on February 18, 2015, 02:04:37 PM
Quote from: Gups on February 18, 2015, 02:03:11 PM
I don't think a package is so bad i.e. getting someone (a travel agent) to sort out the travel and hotel arrangements for you but I'd draw the line on going those appalling guided tours with the colour coded t-shirts etc.
What is so appalling about getting educated on what you are looking at?
You could also do it without embarrassing yourself?
Quote from: Maladict on February 18, 2015, 02:32:31 PM
You could also do it without embarrassing yourself?
Zero shits given. I am on vacation, I am not seeing any of these people ever again.
Quote from: Tyr on February 18, 2015, 02:25:42 PM
Cornwall is beautiful. Lots of rich Londoners have their second home there.
And some of the best holidays of my childhood were in Yorkshire. It has some very nice areas. York is really a place anyone into history should visit at some point.
Siena too was great. Anybody who is in the area should ignore the crowds heading to Florence and spend a day there instead.
I wasn't suggesting those particular places though. Just saying there are much nicer places to visit in Europe than the 3 mentioned and I've yet to visit highly rated big places like Madrid or Berlin. Some variety from capitals would be an improvement too.
But as the first place to visit?
My mother asked me about italy a month or two ago, asking about the little town that I had enjoyed. That town was San Gimignano in Tuscany, and indeed, it was probably my favourite part of the trip (except for meeting Languishites). However, if I was only going to visit one place in Italy, it would be Rome, not San Gimignano. I suppose it's checking things off the "bucket list" - there are lots of charming towns and regions in the world, but there's only one Colosseum, one Eifel Tower, one London Bridge.
What's the deal with hating on guided tours?
I missed that you were doing a package tour. I am not sure anyone who has the ability to do a bit of research would ever subject themselves to that.
Quote from: Barrister on February 18, 2015, 02:34:36 PM
but there's only one Colosseum, one Eifel Tower, one London Bridge.
There are two. :P
Quote from: Barrister on February 18, 2015, 02:34:36 PM
Quote from: Tyr on February 18, 2015, 02:25:42 PM
Cornwall is beautiful. Lots of rich Londoners have their second home there.
And some of the best holidays of my childhood were in Yorkshire. It has some very nice areas. York is really a place anyone into history should visit at some point.
Siena too was great. Anybody who is in the area should ignore the crowds heading to Florence and spend a day there instead.
I wasn't suggesting those particular places though. Just saying there are much nicer places to visit in Europe than the 3 mentioned and I've yet to visit highly rated big places like Madrid or Berlin. Some variety from capitals would be an improvement too.
But as the first place to visit?
My mother asked me about italy a month or two ago, asking about the little town that I had enjoyed. That town was San Gimignano in Tuscany, and indeed, it was probably my favourite part of the trip (except for meeting Languishites). However, if I was only going to visit one place in Italy, it would be Rome, not San Gimignano. I suppose it's checking things off the "bucket list" - there are lots of charming towns and regions in the world, but there's only one Colosseum, one Eifel Tower, one London Bridge.
Some day I need to drive down to San Gimignano, it looks awesome.
I'd say to visit only 2 of the 3 and then see some interesting other places nearby. Paris and London are much of a muchness. Rome is a bit more different and has more to see.
Quote from: The Brain on February 18, 2015, 02:36:09 PM
What's the deal with hating on guided tours?
We're a bunch of know-it-alls. Tour guides just get facts in the way of our interpretation of what we see.
Quote from: Norgy on February 18, 2015, 03:19:27 PM
Quote from: The Brain on February 18, 2015, 02:36:09 PM
What's the deal with hating on guided tours?
We're a bunch of know-it-alls. Tour guides just get facts in the way of our interpretation of what we see.
Also, I am not sure what pleasure there could possibly be in being herded along in a group.
Quote from: Valmy on February 18, 2015, 02:04:37 PM
Quote from: Gups on February 18, 2015, 02:03:11 PM
I don't think a package is so bad i.e. getting someone (a travel agent) to sort out the travel and hotel arrangements for you but I'd draw the line on going those appalling guided tours with the colour coded t-shirts etc.
What is so appalling about getting educated on what you are looking at?
You can get educated without being herded around. It does depend what you are doing. There are lots of audioguides rented on location, podcasts online, and wikipedia articles you can look up.
Quote from: alfred russel on February 18, 2015, 03:27:36 PM
Quote from: Valmy on February 18, 2015, 02:04:37 PM
Quote from: Gups on February 18, 2015, 02:03:11 PM
I don't think a package is so bad i.e. getting someone (a travel agent) to sort out the travel and hotel arrangements for you but I'd draw the line on going those appalling guided tours with the colour coded t-shirts etc.
What is so appalling about getting educated on what you are looking at?
You can get educated without being herded around. It does depend what you are doing. There are lots of audioguides rented on location, podcasts online, and wikipedia articles you can look up.
I've done tours, self-guided tours, and wandered aimlessly.
A well-done tour (which isn't all of them) is probably the best way to do it. You have a knowledgeable guide who can answer any questions and whom can speak your language.
Last summer I was on an awesome tour in Winchester Cathedral. Old dude, retired teacher, knocked it out of the park.
Quote from: Barrister on February 18, 2015, 03:30:10 PM
A well-done tour (which isn't all of them) is probably the best way to do it. You have a knowledgeable guide who can answer any questions and whom can speak your language.
Maybe. I prefer to be able to set my own pace, though.
And a well done tour generally won't have the guide use a funny umbrella and have all the group wear identical hats or labels.
Quote from: The Brain on February 18, 2015, 03:33:29 PM
Last summer I was on an awesome tour in Winchester Cathedral. Old dude, retired teacher, knocked it out of the park.
Yeah, when you can catch one like that it is very good.
I think one can draw a distinction between taking a tour of one site for a few hours and those week long tours where you're led by the hand to multiple sites.
Quote from: Tyr on February 18, 2015, 03:51:22 PM
I think one can draw a distinction between taking a tour of one site for a few hours and those week long tours where you're led by the hand to multiple sites.
Agreed. The former can be good. The latter would make me wish I was back at work.
A lot of cities in Europe have hop on-hop off buses that take you past the most familiar spots. A day pass costs a bit, but in exchange you also get the transport. I tried them in Amsterdam and Palermo. Not too bad, really. If you shell out for the headphones, you also get a pre-recorded message when you pass a point of interest.
I do prefer just walking around exploring and experiencing on my own though.
Lusti probably regrets starting this thread. :lol:
Quote from: alfred russel on February 18, 2015, 03:56:17 PM
Lusti probably regrets starting this thread. :lol:
I mean, if what he is after is getting his son exposure to the top cultural attractions in Europe with a minimum of hassle and in 10 days, this is a reasonable way to do it.
Quote from: alfred russel on February 18, 2015, 03:56:17 PM
Lusti probably regrets starting this thread. :lol:
On the contrary, any reason for me to get some good info while laughing at the stuck up bitches. I love languish for that same reason.
Quote from: Barrister on February 18, 2015, 01:56:30 PM
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 11:21:25 AM
Some great stuff, I sure hope CF is reading thise before she pulls the trigger. Regarding planning everything to save money, for me time is money, I need to pay the tour company to plan all this shit for me, I don't have the time to do so.
I travel by myself with the military and go see places without a plan, but I will not drag The Wife and Lazy Teenager like that. For example, I saw Rome in a day, basically dawn to dusk, walked the whole thing, saw everything mentioned. I've done the same in Germany, New Zealand, New York, DC etc. I have no problem with busses, trains and subways by myself, but with the family? Don't think so.
Thanks again guys. CF, you better be reading all this!
I'd actually kind of like to take a package tour one of these days.
I've been to Europe three times now. First two times we only had a vague idea of our itinerary - no reservations, just winging it. Except on the second trip Mrs B would really start freaking out about not knowing what's going to happen next, or where we would stay. So third trip we had a day-by-day itinerary, with everything reserved in advance. Mrs B was much better, but still got concerned at times.
So I think next time I'd almost prefer to take a pre-packaged tour, where everything is planned out to the minute.
Don't tell me you didn't have fun time at Auschwitz. :mad:
Quote from: Martinus on February 18, 2015, 04:17:14 PM
Quote from: Barrister on February 18, 2015, 01:56:30 PM
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 11:21:25 AM
Some great stuff, I sure hope CF is reading thise before she pulls the trigger. Regarding planning everything to save money, for me time is money, I need to pay the tour company to plan all this shit for me, I don't have the time to do so.
I travel by myself with the military and go see places without a plan, but I will not drag The Wife and Lazy Teenager like that. For example, I saw Rome in a day, basically dawn to dusk, walked the whole thing, saw everything mentioned. I've done the same in Germany, New Zealand, New York, DC etc. I have no problem with busses, trains and subways by myself, but with the family? Don't think so.
Thanks again guys. CF, you better be reading all this!
I'd actually kind of like to take a package tour one of these days.
I've been to Europe three times now. First two times we only had a vague idea of our itinerary - no reservations, just winging it. Except on the second trip Mrs B would really start freaking out about not knowing what's going to happen next, or where we would stay. So third trip we had a day-by-day itinerary, with everything reserved in advance. Mrs B was much better, but still got concerned at times.
So I think next time I'd almost prefer to take a pre-packaged tour, where everything is planned out to the minute.
Don't tell me you didn't have fun time at Auschwitz. :mad:
:P
Auschwitz was intensely memorable and I'm very glad I went, but fun was perhaps not the right word for the experience...
Quote from: Barrister on February 18, 2015, 02:34:36 PM
Quote from: Tyr on February 18, 2015, 02:25:42 PM
Cornwall is beautiful. Lots of rich Londoners have their second home there.
And some of the best holidays of my childhood were in Yorkshire. It has some very nice areas. York is really a place anyone into history should visit at some point.
Siena too was great. Anybody who is in the area should ignore the crowds heading to Florence and spend a day there instead.
I wasn't suggesting those particular places though. Just saying there are much nicer places to visit in Europe than the 3 mentioned and I've yet to visit highly rated big places like Madrid or Berlin. Some variety from capitals would be an improvement too.
But as the first place to visit?
My mother asked me about italy a month or two ago, asking about the little town that I had enjoyed. That town was San Gimignano in Tuscany, and indeed, it was probably my favourite part of the trip (except for meeting Languishites). However, if I was only going to visit one place in Italy, it would be Rome, not San Gimignano. I suppose it's checking things off the "bucket list" - there are lots of charming towns and regions in the world, but there's only one Colosseum, one Eifel Tower, one London Bridge.
Eeek, that's one unremarkable bridge, I wouldn't cross the road to see it.
He probably meant Tower Bridge.
I've spent a week in London and probably 2-3 days in Rome. I felt like it wasn't enough for Rome, but probably just right for London (though one of those days I was actually in Canterbury).
I agree with others that it'd be hard to do all three of those in that time and not feel very rushed.
Quote from: The Larch on February 18, 2015, 07:25:01 PM
He probably meant Tower Bridge.
Oh no doubt, but it's still odd as Tower bridge isn't exactly wonderful, it's a rather yucky piece of victoriana, the most interesting thing about it is the lifting mechanism and engines.
The world if full of many more interesting and beautiful bridges, hell the modern French road network has some astonishing bridges.
The people arguing that not enough time is being spent in each city seem to be implying that each city contains a number of sites that must be taken in order to earn the certificate for that city. You can have a fantastic time visiting a great city for 3 days.
My advice to you Lusti (in addition to my previous awesome advice about people watching) is to keep the number of sites you hit small. Much better to savor a few than to rush around town punching your ticket.
Also, Beeb... I loved taking a guided tour of Italy. For two weeks, my job was to sightsee, eat, drink, and relax. I didn't have to drive, worry about where I was going, or what hotel to stay in. They took care of everything, even down to getting us 'preferred' tickets at the Vatican so we could skip the long lines and go right in. :showoff:
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 18, 2015, 08:21:23 PM
The people arguing that not enough time is being spent in each city seem to be implying that each city contains a number of sites that must be taken in order to earn the certificate for that city. You can have a fantastic time visiting a great city for 3 days.
My advice to you Lusti (in addition to my previous awesome advice about people watching) is to keep the number of sites you hit small. Much better to savor a few than to rush around town punching your ticket.
I'm sorry but I do not agree. When I've not done enough in a city I've always left with regrets or thoughts of "well, I guess I need to go back there someday." Don't be like me, Lusti :)
Quote from: Caliga on February 18, 2015, 08:22:52 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 18, 2015, 08:21:23 PM
The people arguing that not enough time is being spent in each city seem to be implying that each city contains a number of sites that must be taken in order to earn the certificate for that city. You can have a fantastic time visiting a great city for 3 days.
My advice to you Lusti (in addition to my previous awesome advice about people watching) is to keep the number of sites you hit small. Much better to savor a few than to rush around town punching your ticket.
I'm sorry but I do not agree. When I've not done enough in a city I've always left with regrets or thoughts of "well, I guess I need to go back there someday." Don't be like me, Lusti :)
Yeah, Cal still regrets not having properly auditioning British motorway catering. :bowler:
I will say that the Autogrill establishments along the Italian autostrada are top notch. :cool:
Quote from: mongers on February 18, 2015, 08:15:43 PM
Quote from: The Larch on February 18, 2015, 07:25:01 PM
He probably meant Tower Bridge.
Oh no doubt, but it's still odd as Tower bridge isn't exactly wonderful, it's a rather yucky piece of victoriana, the most interesting thing about it is the lifting mechanism and engines.
The world if full of many more interesting and beautiful bridges, hell the modern French road network has some astonishing bridges.
Like it or not, it's an iconic landmark of London.
Quote from: Caliga on February 18, 2015, 08:21:49 PM
Also, Beeb... I loved taking a guided tour of Italy. For two weeks, my job was to sightsee, eat, drink, and relax. I didn't have to drive, worry about where I was going, or what hotel to stay in. They took care of everything, even down to getting us 'preferred' tickets at the Vatican so we could skip the long lines and go right in. :showoff:
I like gelato.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 18, 2015, 08:21:23 PM
The people arguing that not enough time is being spent in each city seem to be implying that each city contains a number of sites that must be taken in order to earn the certificate for that city. You can have a fantastic time visiting a great city for 3 days.
My advice to you Lusti (in addition to my previous awesome advice about people watching) is to keep the number of sites you hit small. Much better to savor a few than to rush around town punching your ticket.
Not at all. How much sense does it make to fly from one place to another (and lose a day to travel) when you haven't seen all the "Class A" sites in a location? Lusti's tour, for instance, doesn't cover the Louvre or Versailles. Even with a free day you can't hit both.
Another danger trying to do so much that you don't get to enjoy anything (like say squeeze in the Louvre and Versailles in a single day).
Quote from: Caliga on February 18, 2015, 09:06:41 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 18, 2015, 08:44:58 PM
I like gelato.
You would like Florence then.
Only got to Milan. And was lectured on who to vote for. euros. :rolleyes:
Quote from: alfred russel on February 18, 2015, 08:55:32 PM
Not at all. How much sense does it make to fly from one place to another (and lose a day to travel) when you haven't seen all the "Class A" sites in a location? Lusti's tour, for instance, doesn't cover the Louvre or Versailles. Even with a free day you can't hit both.
Another danger trying to do so much that you don't get to enjoy anything (like say squeeze in the Louvre and Versailles in a single day).
Does it take a day to get from London to Paris?
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 18, 2015, 09:08:14 PM
Only got to Milan. And was lectured on who to vote for. euros. :rolleyes:
While I was there an election campaign was going on. FORZA ITALIA FTW!
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 18, 2015, 09:08:35 PM
Does it take a day to get from London to Paris?
No, but checking out of a hotel, getting to a train station, a hour to two train ride (not sure how long this is), and checking into a new hotel--it really takes a big dent out of the day.
Well, seems The Boss is looking at options of planning more herself, ditch the tour and add more days per city. :)
Quote from: Caliga on February 18, 2015, 08:21:49 PM
Also, Beeb... I loved taking a guided tour of Italy. For two weeks, my job was to sightsee, eat, drink, and relax. I didn't have to drive, worry about where I was going, or what hotel to stay in. They took care of everything, even down to getting us 'preferred' tickets at the Vatican so we could skip the long lines and go right in. :showoff:
Are you disagreeing with me? :unsure:
I said I wouldn't mind taking a guided tour some day.
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 10:22:22 PM
Well, seems The Boss is looking at options of planning more herself, ditch the tour and add more days per city. :)
That sounds awesome. :cheers:
Do you mean a longer vacation, or dropping a city?
I do think the tour guide idea would have worked, but would have been expensive, and I'm not sure as good a trip as it could have been.
More days.
OK people, any hotel recommendations for London?
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 18, 2015, 08:44:58 PM
I like gelato.
I learned the word zitrone just so I could order it. In Europe they don't load that shit up with sugar. It's great.
Quote from: Barrister on February 18, 2015, 10:24:55 PM
Are you disagreeing with me? :unsure:
I said I wouldn't mind taking a guided tour some day.
Not at all... I'm telling you that you should seriously consider that option.
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 10:56:25 PM
More days.
OK people, any hotel recommendations for London?
I stayed at some hotel in The Docklands when I was there. I can't remember what it was called but at the time my dad worked for Choice Hotels so we got it for free. :cool: It would have been a Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality Inn, Sleep Inn, Clarion, or Cambria Hotel & Suites I guess. It was pretty nice and was a stone's throw from Docklands Light Rail, but a bit of a hike from all the action.
edit: The Hotel was right near some thing called ExCeL (a convention center, I guess?), now that I think about it. So I guess this was by the Canary Wharf DLR station.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 18, 2015, 09:08:35 PM
Does it take a day to get from London to Paris?
No. 2h15 plus some check-in time, minimal compared to a flight. Train stations get you right into the city centre e.g Gare du Nord is 20-30 min away from the Louvre by the metro.
Quote from: Caliga on February 18, 2015, 08:22:52 PM
When I've not done enough in a city I've always left with regrets or thoughts of "well, I guess I need to go back there someday."
Right? The worst would be if you felt like you wanted to go back to a place someday / encouraged your child to feel like going back to a place someday!
Quote from: Caliga on February 19, 2015, 06:07:39 AM
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 10:56:25 PM
More days.
OK people, any hotel recommendations for London?
I stayed at some hotel in The Docklands when I was there. I can't remember what it was called but at the time my dad worked for Choice Hotels so we got it for free. :cool: It would have been a Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality Inn, Sleep Inn, Clarion, or Cambria Hotel & Suites I guess. It was pretty nice and was a stone's throw from Docklands Light Rail, but a bit of a hike from all the action.
edit: The Hotel was right near some thing called ExCeL (a convention center, I guess?), now that I think about it. So I guess this was by the Canary Wharf DLR station.
Excel is a big conference centre (watched some Olympics boxing there) but the area is pretty dull - it's basically 1990s onwards office blocks. It's pretty well connected with lots of transport options, including the cable car.
I've obviously never needed to stay in a hotel in London but colleagues often at the Premier Inn at Blackfriars - clean, budget, decent location. If you've got money to spend I'm sure there are lots of nicer options though.
I've been to Paris 3 times in the last 4 years (twice for work), and every time I've stayed in Saint Denis. Affordable, well connected, and in a suburb with a large muslim community that has controversially been called a "no go zone" by certain media outlets (I never felt scared).
The point being there are some really affordable options in Paris if you are willing to break out of the clean city center. Just make sure you are in walking distance to a metro station.
[if anyone wonders why I cared about budget when traveling for work, we got a deal where we could use some money for entertainment if we booked at hotels below the market value in the location we were traveling]
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 10:22:22 PM
Well, seems The Boss is looking at options of planning more herself, ditch the tour and add more days per city. :)
It is always wise to marry someone smarter than you.
I still do not understand the horror of having a few Archaeology PhD students show you around the Forum.
Quote from: Valmy on February 19, 2015, 10:57:47 AM
I still do not understand the horror of having a few Archaeology PhD students show you around the Forum.
There is no horror in that. The horror is being shipped around with a bus load of tourists for a week or more hitting all the most tourist intensive sights and missing a lot of the interesting things.
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 19, 2015, 10:59:17 AM
Quote from: Valmy on February 19, 2015, 10:57:47 AM
I still do not understand the horror of having a few Archaeology PhD students show you around the Forum.
There is no horror in that. The horror is being shipped around with a bus load of tourists for a week or more hitting all the most tourist intensive sights and missing a lot of the interesting things.
Exactly. If you get a decent guide and a small group at a particular place it can add to the experience.
If you are in a group of 40 wearing identical red baseball caps with the guide herding you like cats by waving a big umbrella (I work near St Pauls so I walk past these groups almost every day), you'd be much better off by yourself.
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 19, 2015, 10:54:47 AM
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 18, 2015, 10:22:22 PM
Well, seems The Boss is looking at options of planning more herself, ditch the tour and add more days per city. :)
It is always wise to marry someone smarter than you.
Yeap, sad it did not work out for her in that department. LOL
Quote from: Gups on February 19, 2015, 09:51:54 AM
Excel is a big conference centre (watched some Olympics boxing there) but the area is pretty dull - it's basically 1990s onwards office blocks. It's pretty well connected with lots of transport options, including the cable car.
Yep, sounds about right. The hotel we stayed at included a daily breakfast buffet. All you can eat beans, taters, and mushrooms :showoff:
I've been interested in the Rick Steves tours. You know his people know where the good drugs are at.
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 19, 2015, 02:43:25 PM
I've been interested in the Rick Steves tours. You know his people know where the good drugs are at.
I dunno, Rick Steves has always struck me as the most square tour guide possible. As if BB were to take you on a tour of Europe.
Quote from: Tonitrus on February 19, 2015, 02:45:52 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 19, 2015, 02:43:25 PM
I've been interested in the Rick Steves tours. You know his people know where the good drugs are at.
I dunno, Rick Steves has always struck me as the most square tour guide possible. As if BB were to take you on a tour of Europe.
Dude loves the pot.
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 18, 2015, 08:44:58 PM
Quote from: Caliga on February 18, 2015, 08:21:49 PM
Also, Beeb... I loved taking a guided tour of Italy. For two weeks, my job was to sightsee, eat, drink, and relax. I didn't have to drive, worry about where I was going, or what hotel to stay in. They took care of everything, even down to getting us 'preferred' tickets at the Vatican so we could skip the long lines and go right in. :showoff:
I like gelato.
:yes:
I didn't bother trying it until towards the end of my Italy trip as I thought "Ice cream? Meh. OK".
But it is so much better
Quote from: Tonitrus on February 19, 2015, 02:45:52 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 19, 2015, 02:43:25 PM
I've been interested in the Rick Steves tours. You know his people know where the good drugs are at.
I dunno, Rick Steves has always struck me as the most square tour guide possible. As if BB were to take you on a tour of Europe.
I would show you an awesome time in Europe! :mad:
Quote from: Tonitrus on February 19, 2015, 02:45:52 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 19, 2015, 02:43:25 PM
I've been interested in the Rick Steves tours. You know his people know where the good drugs are at.
I dunno, Rick Steves has always struck me as the most square tour guide possible. As if BB were to take you on a tour of Europe.
I'll be a tour guide for you fuckers. We are going to walk everywhere. We are going to stay in the ghetto to save money. If we rent a car at some point, we are probably going over some nasty roads at some point and we might get stuck in the mud and have to spend the night in the car. Don't bitch too much-it is probably nicer than the nights we'll spend in tents.
Quote from: alfred russel on February 19, 2015, 03:22:51 PM
Quote from: Tonitrus on February 19, 2015, 02:45:52 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 19, 2015, 02:43:25 PM
I've been interested in the Rick Steves tours. You know his people know where the good drugs are at.
I dunno, Rick Steves has always struck me as the most square tour guide possible. As if BB were to take you on a tour of Europe.
I'll be a tour guide for you fuckers. We are going to walk everywhere. We are going to stay in the ghetto to save money. If we rent a car at some point, we are probably going over some nasty roads at some point and we might get stuck in the mud and have to spend the night in the car. Don't bitch too much-it is probably nicer than the nights we'll spend in tents.
This is the true spirit of adventure. :hug:
Ugh
Really for comedy value, Lusti should just engage the free services of three random Languishites to give their bound to be, eccentric take on each of the cities, preferable one's they've never visited before.
To get things rolling I'll offer to show you around Rome; I mean what could possibly go wrong. :D
The guy from the "History of Rome" podcast, who is now doing the "Revolutions" one also does organized tours a couple of times per year. He has a 11 day trip scheduled for April covering England and France and visiting the sites of the English and French revolutions. If I had the money I'd do it in a heartbeat.
http://historyworldtravel.com/ (http://historyworldtravel.com/)
Quote from: The Larch on February 19, 2015, 05:08:31 PM
The guy from the "History of Rome" podcast, who is now doing the "Revolutions" one also does organized tours a couple of times per year. He has a 11 day trip scheduled for April covering England and France and visiting the sites of the English and French revolutions. If I had the money I'd do it in a heartbeat.
http://historyworldtravel.com/ (http://historyworldtravel.com/)
You mindless cattle.
Quote from: The Larch on February 19, 2015, 05:08:31 PM
The guy from the "History of Rome" podcast, who is now doing the "Revolutions" one also does organized tours a couple of times per year. He has a 11 day trip scheduled for April covering England and France and visiting the sites of the English and French revolutions. If I had the money I'd do it in a heartbeat.
http://historyworldtravel.com/ (http://historyworldtravel.com/)
Oh thanks for that, it's rather interesting.
So apparently Dutch football hooligans demolished a bunch of monuments in Rome last night.
What the fuck.
It's the Batavian Revolt brought to conclusion. :(
Quote from: Martinus on February 20, 2015, 02:35:22 AM
So apparently Dutch football hooligans demolished a bunch of monuments in Rome last night.
What the fuck.
They damaged the fontana della Barcaccia. A rather fitting choice for barbarians :lol:
There's a long and proud tradition in Rome of rowdy northeners coming down and wrecking shit up. The city will suck it up and deal with it.
Ok so here's what we have so far, Flying to Rome on May 24th through the 30th, the train to Paris on 30th-5th, train to London on 5th-10th.Then flying to Alabama on the 10th.
We will be doing this without any excursion group. Questions, asking for help here.
- train best deals??to Paris and to London...
-looking a bed and breakfasts, im checking out an apartment called a view of Rome. its by St Peters Basilica. opinions??
-don't have a clue of where to stay in Paris nor London. Please HELP!!! Thanks :hug:
Train from Rome to Paris sounds nightmarish. Aren't there nice plane deals?
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 10:25:16 AM
Train from Rome to Paris sounds nightmarish. Aren't there nice plane deals?
Ok thats one of my questions.... thanks. So Flying is best?
also looking at Gli Scipioni Bed and Breakfast in Rome, looks Nice and clean. and close to Metro....
I'd say so. You can check some of the low cost airlines to see if they do that route. For instance Ryanair does it, but maybe you'll have to pay several extras on account of all the luggage you'll be carrying.
Can you give me the link to the hotel in Rome? I can check if it's in a nice area. There are plenty of B&Bs around Termini, but some of those can be a bit shady.
I don't think a board full of sociopathic wargaming loners is going to be much help on B&Bs CF. :lol:
http://www.gliscipionibb.it/
Some tips on Rome. You can find some really good apartment deals in the old part of the city through rent direct type websites. I would arrange for a driver to meet you at the airport especially if you are in the old part of Rome. The service is quick, efficient and surprisingly inexpensive. On getting out of Rome you will probably get a better deal flying a discount airline then taking the train and you will save a lot of time.
For London I would suggest staying away from hotels and look at B+Bs. Just make sure it is near a Tube station. In Paris there are a lot of good small hotels that will be reasonably priced - especially if you don't mind being a bit further out and riding the Metro.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 23, 2015, 10:34:34 AM
I don't think a board full of sociopathic wargaming loners is going to be much help on B&Bs CF. :lol:
I actually lived in Rome, you know.
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 10:36:04 AM
I actually lived in Rome, you know.
Did you live in a bed and breakfast?
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 23, 2015, 10:34:34 AM
I don't think a board full of sociopathic wargaming loners is going to be much help on B&Bs CF. :lol:
Stop projecting. Besides there are people here who have actually been to or live in Rome.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 23, 2015, 10:37:17 AM
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 10:36:04 AM
I actually lived in Rome, you know.
Did you live in a bed and breakfast?
No, but I have friends who did and I can tell a good part of town from a bad one.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:34:57 AM
http://www.gliscipionibb.it/
Ok, first thing first it's near the Vatican so it means you'll be slightly far away from the city center. Their ratings are off the charts at TripAdvisor, though, so it must be a really nice place. They offer shuttles to and from the airport which, if not too expensive, could be very convenient. It is a 3rd floor in an appartment building and breakfast is self service.
It's not such a big deal that it is near a subway station. At that time of the year the weather will be surely nice and walking around Rome is a true delight.
thanks. :hug:
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 10:44:20 AM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:34:57 AM
http://www.gliscipionibb.it/
Ok, first thing first it's near the Vatican so it means you'll be slightly far away from the city center. Their ratings are off the charts at TripAdvisor, though, so it must be a really nice place. They offer shuttles to and from the airport which, if not too expensive, could be very convenient. It is a 3rd floor in an appartment building and breakfast is self service.
It's not such a big deal that it is near a subway station. At that time of the year the weather will be surely nice and walking around Rome is a true delight.
I would try to get something closer to the center - where you are going to be spending most of your time. The Vatican is a long walk away which is ok if you do it on the day you visit the Vatican but having to make the walk every day to the other attractions will be less fun.
ideas please.... :hmm:
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 23, 2015, 10:34:34 AM
I don't think a board full of sociopathic wargaming loners is going to be much help on B&Bs CF. :lol:
Hey! I don't wargame anymore! :mad:
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:35:32 AM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:34:57 AM
http://www.gliscipionibb.it/
:lmfao:
Doesn't everyone like to listen to a song about death when making hotel reservations? :hmm:
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 23, 2015, 10:51:32 AM
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 10:44:20 AM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:34:57 AM
http://www.gliscipionibb.it/
Ok, first thing first it's near the Vatican so it means you'll be slightly far away from the city center. Their ratings are off the charts at TripAdvisor, though, so it must be a really nice place. They offer shuttles to and from the airport which, if not too expensive, could be very convenient. It is a 3rd floor in an appartment building and breakfast is self service.
It's not such a big deal that it is near a subway station. At that time of the year the weather will be surely nice and walking around Rome is a true delight.
I would try to get something closer to the center - where you are going to be spending most of your time. The Vatican is a long walk away which is ok if you do it on the day you visit the Vatican but having to make the walk every day to the other attractions will be less fun.
Normally I'd agree with you, but in late may weather will be great, so a 30-60 min leisurely walk along the city center doesn't sound that bad. ;) It's also a quieter area than the center, in case they value that too.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:53:46 AM
ideas please.... :hmm:
So for example, something near the campo di fiori. This is a favourite area of mine to stay. The benefit is not only are you walking distance to everything (and a long walk to the Vatican) but you have ready access to the market carts that set up there so you can pick up cheese, bread, fruit and have a wonderful meal or, if you wish go to the many small restaurants off the main touristed areas - go to a place where the people are speaking Italian...
For your London stay it might be worthwhile looking at these people http://www.appleapartments.co.uk/best-rate-guaranteed/
I used one of their apartments last summer (in Greenwich) and it was pretty cheap for London and made a very good base. I see they have apartments throughout the city, I suspect the Strand and Kensington would cost a hell of a lot more than the East London one. Maybe check through expedia and booking.com to see if there are any deals.
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 11:00:25 AM
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 23, 2015, 10:51:32 AM
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 10:44:20 AM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:34:57 AM
http://www.gliscipionibb.it/
Ok, first thing first it's near the Vatican so it means you'll be slightly far away from the city center. Their ratings are off the charts at TripAdvisor, though, so it must be a really nice place. They offer shuttles to and from the airport which, if not too expensive, could be very convenient. It is a 3rd floor in an appartment building and breakfast is self service.
It's not such a big deal that it is near a subway station. At that time of the year the weather will be surely nice and walking around Rome is a true delight.
I would try to get something closer to the center - where you are going to be spending most of your time. The Vatican is a long walk away which is ok if you do it on the day you visit the Vatican but having to make the walk every day to the other attractions will be less fun.
Normally I'd agree with you, but in late may weather will be great, so a 30-60 min leisurely walk along the city center doesn't sound that bad. ;) It's also a quieter area than the center, in case they value that too.
Well, from the Vatican to say the Spanish Steps is a fair hike. My greatest enjoyment was just walking around the old parts of the City and so for me being there without having to first walk in would be a big benefit.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:19:22 AM
Ok so here's what we have so far, Flying to Rome on May 24th through the 30th, the train to Paris on 30th-5th, train to London on 5th-10th.Then flying to Alabama on the 10th.
We will be doing this without any excursion group. Questions, asking for help here.
- train best deals??to Paris and to London...
-looking a bed and breakfasts, im checking out an apartment called a view of Rome. its by St Peters Basilica. opinions??
-don't have a clue of where to stay in Paris nor London. Please HELP!!! Thanks :hug:
I think that sounds like you will have a better time with enough time to really enjoy the cities.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:19:22 AM
Ok so here's what we have so far, Flying to Rome on May 24th through the 30th, the train to Paris on 30th-5th, train to London on 5th-10th.Then flying to Alabama on the 10th.
We will be doing this without any excursion group. Questions, asking for help here.
- train best deals??to Paris and to London...
-looking a bed and breakfasts, im checking out an apartment called a view of Rome. its by St Peters Basilica. opinions??
-don't have a clue of where to stay in Paris nor London. Please HELP!!! Thanks :hug:
Rome to Paris by train :cool:
It's only a single transfer in Turin, not a problem at all.
You can leave Rome at midnight and transfer in Turin in the morning, even saves you accommodation costs.
Or leave Rome at noon and arrive in Paris by midnight.
Quote from: Maladict on February 23, 2015, 11:06:13 AM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:19:22 AM
Ok so here's what we have so far, Flying to Rome on May 24th through the 30th, the train to Paris on 30th-5th, train to London on 5th-10th.Then flying to Alabama on the 10th.
We will be doing this without any excursion group. Questions, asking for help here.
- train best deals??to Paris and to London...
-looking a bed and breakfasts, im checking out an apartment called a view of Rome. its by St Peters Basilica. opinions??
-don't have a clue of where to stay in Paris nor London. Please HELP!!! Thanks :hug:
Rome to Paris by train :cool:
It's only a single transfer in Turin, not a problem at all.
You can leave Rome at midnight and transfer in Turin in the morning, even saves you accommodation costs.
Or leave Rome at noon and arrive in Paris by midnight.
And be knackered for a whole day. Sounds like a terrible idea to me, and bound to be even more expensive than a low cost plane ticket.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 10:19:22 AM
Ok so here's what we have so far, Flying to Rome on May 24th through the 30th, the train to Paris on 30th-5th, train to London on 5th-10th.Then flying to Alabama on the 10th.
We will be doing this without any excursion group. Questions, asking for help here.
- train best deals??to Paris and to London...
-looking a bed and breakfasts, im checking out an apartment called a view of Rome. its by St Peters Basilica. opinions??
-don't have a clue of where to stay in Paris nor London. Please HELP!!! Thanks :hug:
OMG.
Not your plan which I'm sure will be fine, but that a woman posted on Languish. :P
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 11:09:16 AM
And be knackered for a whole day. Sounds like a terrible idea to me, and bound to be even more expensive than a low cost plane ticket.
I don't know, I find (long distance) travel by train very relaxing.
Air travel does get me exhausted, annoyed and often angry, especially when using low-cost carriers.
Each their own, I suppose.
Keep in mind that they're travelling with a young kid, and that they want to make the most of their limited time in Europe.
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 11:16:57 AM
Keep in mind that they're travelling with a young kid, and that they want to make the most of their limited time in Europe.
Taking the daytime train will make the kid see much more of it. :contract:
edit: seriously, you get to see the Tuscan hills, glimpses of Florence, Bologna and Milan, cross the Apennines and the Alps, the vineyards in the Rhone valley and Burgundy.
Quote from: Maladict on February 23, 2015, 11:16:00 AM
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 11:09:16 AM
And be knackered for a whole day. Sounds like a terrible idea to me, and bound to be even more expensive than a low cost plane ticket.
I don't know, I find (long distance) travel by train very relaxing.
Air travel does get me exhausted, annoyed and often angry, especially when using low-cost carriers.
Each their own, I suppose.
I agree with you.
But Lusti/CP know what is like to trial their family unit through airports/aircraft vs train/stations.
Quote from: mongers on February 23, 2015, 11:21:44 AM
I agree with you.
But Lusti/CP know what is like to trial their family unit through airports/aircraft vs train/stations.
It was their idea, not mine.
Our kids have traveled some, and the younger one insists on not going anyway, the teenager can deal with travel a lot better. Train could be a good option I think. Thank you guys, any input helps.
There used to be a direct night train from Rome to Paris, Il Palatino, slower but you got to sleep and you don't lose precious daytime. You can have a whole compartment in the sleeping car.
Now, there's still some night train between Italy and France (Venise-Paris) so you can still do it by night but there's a transfer in Milan at say 22.50. Not that expensive if you book well in advance.
https://www.thello.com/
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on February 23, 2015, 11:45:24 AM
There used to be a direct night train from Rome to Paris, Il Palatino, slower but you got to sleep and you don't lose precious daytime. You can have a whole compartment in the sleeping car.
Now, there's still some night train between Italy and France (Venise-Paris) so you can still do it by night but there's a transfer in Milan at say 22.50. Not that expensive if you book well in advance.
https://www.thello.com/
Just checked it, the familia would have to leave Rome on the 30th at 19:20, change trains in Milan at 23h and they'd arrive in Paris on the 21st at 10:30. Grand total of around 350 € with the cheapest fare, assuming the kid is 14 or younger.
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 11:51:46 AM
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on February 23, 2015, 11:45:24 AM
There used to be a direct night train from Rome to Paris, Il Palatino, slower but you got to sleep and you don't lose precious daytime. You can have a whole compartment in the sleeping car.
Now, there's still some night train between Italy and France (Venise-Paris) so you can still do it by night but there's a transfer in Milan at say 22.50. Not that expensive if you book well in advance.
https://www.thello.com/
Just checked it, the familia would have to leave Rome on the 30th at 19:20, change trains in Milan at 23h and they'd arrive in Paris on the 21st at 10:30. Grand total of around 350 € with the cheapest fare, assuming the kid is 14 or younger.
I wouldn't do that unless there was no other option. Compare that with about a 1 hour flight.
In comparison, a Ryanair flight takes a couple of hours and costs a bit more than 50€ per person, plus luggage and other extras. There are two flights on the 30th, at around 6 am and pm.
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 23, 2015, 11:53:02 AM
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 11:51:46 AM
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on February 23, 2015, 11:45:24 AM
There used to be a direct night train from Rome to Paris, Il Palatino, slower but you got to sleep and you don't lose precious daytime. You can have a whole compartment in the sleeping car.
Now, there's still some night train between Italy and France (Venise-Paris) so you can still do it by night but there's a transfer in Milan at say 22.50. Not that expensive if you book well in advance.
https://www.thello.com/
Just checked it, the familia would have to leave Rome on the 30th at 19:20, change trains in Milan at 23h and they'd arrive in Paris on the 21st at 10:30. Grand total of around 350 € with the cheapest fare, assuming the kid is 14 or younger.
I wouldn't do that unless there was no other option. Compare that with about a 1 hour flight.
That's 2h or more between Paris and Rome. Then travel between city centres and airports which can be costly as well. More like 4 hours all in all. Of course, traveling low cost will be cheaper but I'd rather pay more and go with Air France or Alitalia.
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 23, 2015, 11:53:02 AM
I wouldn't do that unless there was no other option. Compare that with about a 1 hour flight.
The difference is not that big. Taking into account getting to/from the airport and check-in time, that 1 hour flight (it's 2 really) will balloon into 5 or 6 hours at least.
The train can take you city centre to city centre in 10-11 hours, and the overnight option might actually make it more time-efficient than flying.
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 23, 2015, 11:53:02 AM
I wouldn't do that unless there was no other option. Compare that with about a 1 hour flight.
I've done overnight trains before and the benefit is that you arrive in the center of the city well rested, showered (there are typically showers at the station), and ready to go.
Lusty/CF: have you guys ridden a train before?
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 12:00:32 PM
In comparison, a Ryanair flight takes a couple of hours and costs a bit more than 50€ per person, plus luggage and other extras. There are two flights on the 30th, at around 6 am and pm.
Ryan Air flights to Paris get you to a low cost airport, farther than Orly or Roissy, near Beauvais 80 km north of Paris. It was good for me because the coach ride from the airport to Paris arrives in a neighborhood where I used to live.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on February 23, 2015, 12:07:31 PM
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 12:00:32 PM
In comparison, a Ryanair flight takes a couple of hours and costs a bit more than 50€ per person, plus luggage and other extras. There are two flights on the 30th, at around 6 am and pm.
Ryan Air flights to Paris get you to a low cost airport, farther than Orly or Roissy, near Beauvais 80 km north of Paris. It was good for me because the coach ride from the airport to Paris arrives in a neighborhood where I used to live.
That's what happens with every Ryanair flight. It also departs from Ciampino, which is a much smaller airport than Fiumicino.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 23, 2015, 12:04:03 PM
Lusty/CF: have you guys ridden a train before?
no, never.... i think Gabo(17) would enjoy the adventure
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 12:08:37 PM
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on February 23, 2015, 12:07:31 PM
Quote from: The Larch on February 23, 2015, 12:00:32 PM
In comparison, a Ryanair flight takes a couple of hours and costs a bit more than 50€ per person, plus luggage and other extras. There are two flights on the 30th, at around 6 am and pm.
Ryan Air flights to Paris get you to a low cost airport, farther than Orly or Roissy, near Beauvais 80 km north of Paris. It was good for me because the coach ride from the airport to Paris arrives in a neighborhood where I used to live.
That's what happens with every Ryanair flight. It also departs from Ciampino, which is a much smaller airport than Fiumicino.
I know, but the Lustindarkness/CF family does not. ;) Same goes for Beauvais which is not the worst low cost as in farthest airport. So-called Frankfurt Hahn is even worse (2h by coach vs 1h20 Beauvais-Paris).
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 12:09:49 PM
no, never.... i think Gabo(17) would enjoy the adventure
Then there you go.
I rode Civitavecchia to Rome. Oh,and Milwaukee to Chicago :D.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 12:09:49 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 23, 2015, 12:04:03 PM
Lusty/CF: have you guys ridden a train before?
no, never.... i think Gabo(17) would enjoy the adventure
17 in Europe...I've posted this before but I agree he will enjoy the adventure.
In 2000 it was the jubilee and the pope called on all young people to visit rome for a mass. My family is catholic, so they got the idea my aunt and uncle should take my cousins and my brother and I to Rome for a week.
It was the first time out of the country, and the first thing we discovered was we could be served alcohol (well second, the first was cuban cigars). So basically every day my cousin and I would spend drinking. One day my cousin got especially hammered, and we went to the Spanish Steps because my brother told us there were women of less than sound virtue there, and right in front of the Spanish Steps my cousin passed in the middle of the street. The cops immediately came and called an ambulance, and when he woke up, realized his parents would be less than thrilled, and decided the only wise thing to do was fight the cops. He ended up going to the hospital, tried to fight his way out, and legitimately got the shit beat out of him (which he deserved). They gave him a shot to knock him out, and he was fighting hard enough it took 6 guys to hold him down, and they never had success until they told him the shot was heroin ("Oh well why didn't you say so" was his reply).
He spent the night in the hospital, and I stayed out all night waiting for him to get out (I got thrown out of the hospital and didn't want to go to the hotel room where I might encounter his parents).
The next day was the one family thing we did the entire trip: we went to Florence. He got out of the hospital before the train left, and we just showed up and acted like nothing happened, and to this day they have no idea.
However, we ended up missing the mass that was the theoretical purpose of the trip. They know that. :(
Quote from: alfred russel on February 23, 2015, 12:29:32 PM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 12:09:49 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 23, 2015, 12:04:03 PM
Lusty/CF: have you guys ridden a train before?
no, never.... i think Gabo(17) would enjoy the adventure
17 in Europe...I've posted this before but I agree he will enjoy the adventure.
In 2000 it was the jubilee and the pope called on all young people to visit rome for a mass. My family is catholic, so they got the idea my aunt and uncle should take my cousins and my brother and I to Rome for a week.
It was the first time out of the country, and the first thing we discovered was we could be served alcohol (well second, the first was cuban cigars). So basically every day my cousin and I would spend drinking. One day my cousin got especially hammered, and we went to the Spanish Steps because my brother told us there were women of less than sound virtue there, and right in front of the Spanish Steps my cousin passed in the middle of the street. The cops immediately came and called an ambulance, and when he woke up, realized his parents would be less than thrilled, and decided the only wise thing to do was fight the cops. He ended up going to the hospital, tried to fight his way out, and legitimately got the shit beat out of him (which he deserved). They gave him a shot to knock him out, and he was fighting hard enough it took 6 guys to hold him down, and they never had success until they told him the shot was heroin ("Oh well why didn't you say so" was his reply).
He spent the night in the hospital, and I stayed out all night waiting for him to get out (I got thrown out of the hospital and didn't want to go to the hotel room where I might encounter his parents).
The next day was the one family thing we did the entire trip: we went to Florence. He got out of the hospital before the train left, and we just showed up and acted like nothing happened, and to this day they have no idea.
However, we ended up missing the mass that was the theoretical purpose of the trip. They know that. :(
:lol:
Excellent story, the two of you qualify as honorary Brits abroad. :bowler:
Quotemy cousin passed in the middle of the street
I'm sorry. :(
Well, trip got cheaper, but life got more expensive. Our son will not be going with us. We used that $ as a down payment for a car for him.
No kid with you? More sexy time!
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 23, 2015, 06:34:54 PM
No kid with you? More sexy time!
Oh yeah, he did not enjoy us talking in front of him about our upcoming European honeymoon. :)
Quote from: Tonitrus on February 19, 2015, 02:45:52 PM
Quote from: Ed Anger on February 19, 2015, 02:43:25 PM
I've been interested in the Rick Steves tours. You know his people know where the good drugs are at.
I dunno, Rick Steves has always struck me as the most square tour guide possible. As if BB were to take you on a tour of Europe.
He does talk about some places that nobody else does though. Plus, the guy's got a near-monopoly on the American market. You see people sitting in airports in Europe reading his books a lot.
I've had good experiences with airbnb, for what that's worth. Nice and cheap, and sometimes the host can be a quasi-tour guide as well. One even let us use her bikes while we were in the city.
Ok Rome is set, now where to stay in Paris??? In London we are shooting for Lexington area....
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 07:46:34 PM
Ok Rome is set, now where to stay in Paris??? In London we are shooting for Lexington area....
Have fun guys and gals, sounds pretty good.
edit:Oh, lexington, the venue or Kensington??
Quote from: mongers on February 23, 2015, 07:53:27 PM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 23, 2015, 07:46:34 PM
Ok Rome is set, now where to stay in Paris??? In London we are shooting for Lexington area....
Have fun guys and gals, sounds pretty good.
edit:
Oh, lexington, the venue or Kensington??
LOL sorry Kengsington :lmfao:
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 23, 2015, 06:32:56 PM
Well, trip got cheaper, but life got more expensive. Our son will not be going with us. We used that $ as a down payment for a car for him.
That is quite the financial setback...First the downpayment on a car, later the cost to rebuild and start over when your house goes up in flames during an epic two week house party. :( :P
Quote from: alfred russel on February 23, 2015, 08:57:50 PM
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 23, 2015, 06:32:56 PM
Well, trip got cheaper, but life got more expensive. Our son will not be going with us. We used that $ as a down payment for a car for him.
That is quite the financial setback...First the downpayment on a car, later the cost to rebuild and start over when your house goes up in flames during an epic two week house party. :( :P
Yeap,my thoughts exactly. :(
Kensington has lots of hotels in nice period properties and, it's handy for a trio of great museums. It's a pretty boring area apart from that though. Restaurants and pubs are generally overpriced and catering for out of towners.
If you want to be ventral, I'd go for Bloomsbury or Holborn, near the British Museum and also close to excellent restaurants and bars in Soho and Fitzrovia.
Hotel Xenia London
160 Cromwell Road
London SW5 0TL London folks, is this a good area??????
I think it goes under what Gups said above. Fine but kinda boring area - at least it was when I walked around there in August. :D
It has been 6 years since I stayed at this property (https://www.google.com/maps/place/Strand+Palace+Hotel/@51.5104741,-0.1210626,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x6cbd835c18b1415b) but it looks to be similarly priced as Xenia and closer to the main attractions (from Kensington, quite a hike).
edit: Radisson Blu Edwardian, Kenilworth also is in same price range and I stayed there last year (right next door to British Museum)
Still not ventral enough.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 24, 2015, 01:07:34 PM
Still not ventral enough.
Well my 2nd suggestion would definitely meet Gups's idea of being ventral. :P
The Strand Palace Hotel is where I usually stay, very convenient location and about a fifth of the price of the Savoy across the road :D
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on February 24, 2015, 01:10:02 PM
The Strand Palace Hotel is where I usually stay, very convenient location and about a fifth of the price of the Savoy across the road :D
Thanks , i think the strand palace then it is.... :D
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on February 24, 2015, 01:10:02 PM
The Strand Palace Hotel is where I usually stay, very convenient location and about a fifth of the price of the Savoy across the road :D
Yeah both are great positives, particularly the latter. :)
Yeah , as above. It's fine for sight seeing (close to the South Kensington museums and Hyde Park) but no real buzz (perhaps a bit at Earls Court) and limited decent bars and restaurants. You're near the A4, a busy road which somewhat dissects the area.
RH's suggestion is good. Close to Convent Garden and several good galleries and closeish to the South Bank, Westminster and Soho.
ok so we bought air fare, have a hotel for Rome and for London, now, where in Paris should we stay??
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 24, 2015, 01:17:58 PM
ok so we bought air fare, have a hotel for Rome and for London, now, where in Paris should we stay??
What did you decide for transportation Rome-Paris?
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 24, 2015, 01:19:17 PM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 24, 2015, 01:17:58 PM
ok so we bought air fare, have a hotel for Rome and for London, now, where in Paris should we stay??
What did you decide for transportation Rome-Paris?
Flying thru Alitalia 2 hours cheaper than train
Fag.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 24, 2015, 01:17:58 PM
ok so we bought air fare, have a hotel for Rome and for London, now, where in Paris should we stay??
How budget sensitive are you and how critical is it to stay in the city center?
There are much cheaper options in the suburbs that are connected to the metro, but some people feel unsafe there (but not me).
Hotel Joyce - Astotel
3.0 of 5
29 rue la Bruyere, 75009 Paris, France how does this one sound? I just want to feel safe. dont care if we need to ride the metro.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 24, 2015, 01:48:22 PM
Hotel Joyce - Astotel
3.0 of 5
29 rue la Bruyere, 75009 Paris, France how does this one sound? I just want to feel safe. dont care if we need to ride the metro.
I'd defer to others. It gets great reviews. There are cheaper options, but as always there are trade offs here.
In Paris I would place a pretty big emphasis on being close to Metro.
it is a five minute walk to metro. :)
ok so we have everything booked!!!!! Scary. Because it just became real. this is what we have:
flight out May 24th to Rome
25-29 Rome at Gli Scipioni B&B
29 Flying out from Rome to Paris on Alitalia
29-june 2nd Paris at Hotel Joyce Astotel
June2-06 London Strand Palace Hotel
06 flying back home.
Any volunteers to guise us or hang out???
Cool, I volunteer to go with you and be your tour guide. :)
Watch out for gypsy pickpocket kids in Rome, especially around the Vatican. They work in teams, so if you see one kid coming from your front with a sign about being hungry blah blah, watch out for his crew coming from your sides.
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 24, 2015, 02:28:34 PM
Cool, I volunteer to go with you and be your tour guide. :)
I don't trust him, CF.
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on February 24, 2015, 02:30:27 PM
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 24, 2015, 02:28:34 PM
Cool, I volunteer to go with you and be your tour guide. :)
I don't trust him, CF.
Me neither, perhaps it would be best if I showed up and escorted CF round town :cool:
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 24, 2015, 02:29:28 PM
Watch out for gypsy pickpocket kids in Rome, especially around the Vatican. They work in teams, so if you see one kid coming from your front with a sign about being hungry blah blah, watch out for his crew coming from your sides.
I once worked with an Army NCO who, most of the time, seemed to be one of the most nicest, laid-back people I had met, and then she mentioned, with an edgy passion, traveling in Europe and the necessity of giving begging gypsy kids a merciless boot to the face.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 24, 2015, 02:26:24 PM
it is a five minute walk to metro. :)
ok so we have everything booked!!!!! Scary. Because it just became real. this is what we have:
flight out May 24th to Rome
25-29 Rome at Gli Scipioni B&B
29 Flying out from Rome to Paris on Alitalia
29-june 2nd Paris at Hotel Joyce Astotel
June2-06 London Strand Palace Hotel
06 flying back home.
Any volunteers to guise us or hang out???
And you were do so well. :(
Do I need to spell it out, Avoid Langhistes, they'll lead you on death marches, take you to odd character/less boozers and you'll miss/not remember the rest of the day and evening. :P
Quote from: Tonitrus on February 24, 2015, 02:39:10 PM
I once worked with an Army NCO who, most of the time, seemed to be one of the most nicest, laid-back people I had met, and then she mentioned, with an edgy passion, traveling in Europe and the necessity of giving begging gypsy kids a merciless boot to the face.
Was she hott? :)
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 24, 2015, 02:45:21 PM
Quote from: Tonitrus on February 24, 2015, 02:39:10 PM
I once worked with an Army NCO who, most of the time, seemed to be one of the most nicest, laid-back people I had met, and then she mentioned, with an edgy passion, traveling in Europe and the necessity of giving begging gypsy kids a merciless boot to the face.
Was she hott? :)
You'd forgive a racist if she were Hott?
Go get 'em mongers! :lol:
I wouldn't say she was an all-around racist. Just specifically begging gypsies.
Fucking beggars. Merciless boot to the face vs merciful shotgun blast to the face.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 24, 2015, 02:45:21 PM
Quote from: Tonitrus on February 24, 2015, 02:39:10 PM
I once worked with an Army NCO who, most of the time, seemed to be one of the most nicest, laid-back people I had met, and then she mentioned, with an edgy passion, traveling in Europe and the necessity of giving begging gypsy kids a merciless boot to the face.
Was she hott? :)
She was probably as round as she was short, but oddly, the curves worked it out all proportionately. But, her sweet demeanor was very much in a motherly-like way (she was probably near 40 to my 29 at the time).
I was thinking more like:
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fll-media.tmz.com%2F2014%2F06%2F05%2F0605-beverly-archer-gunny-major-dad-launch-2.jpg&hash=5e5253e19dea8f9468418fe47b2e8c336c930833)
I wonder if beating the crap out of a pickpocket would get me in trouble? :hmm:
I had my pocket picked by a gang of barefoot urchins in Rome in 1988, luckily I noticed almost immediately and raised a hue and cry. The Romans rose to the occasion magnificently and apprehended the blighters, called the police etc etc. The wallet was found in a nearby litter bin with its contents intact.
The cops explained the situation to me. The kids were below the age of criminality so could only be held for a limited time. There were adults behind the gangs but it was hard to establish a link. If the kids didn't thieve enough they could expect to get a good beating once they got home. All in all a horrible situation :(
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 24, 2015, 01:48:22 PM
Hotel Joyce - Astotel
3.0 of 5
29 rue la Bruyere, 75009 Paris, France how does this one sound? I just want to feel safe. dont care if we need to ride the metro.
Neighborhood is fine, you're even not far away to a German Lutheran church if you really, really need it.
Not sure if Lustindarkness will appreciate being within walking distance of the big department stores such as Printemps or Galeries Lafayette though ;)
Quote from: Tonitrus on February 24, 2015, 02:39:10 PM
I once worked with an Army NCO who, most of the time, seemed to be one of the most nicest, laid-back people I had met, and then she mentioned, with an edgy passion, traveling in Europe and the necessity of giving begging gypsy kids a merciless boot to the face.
When I was in Moscow in the 90s I was advised by various people, mostly westerners, to "hit any gypsy kid walking up to you as hard as you can, because you only get one chance".
Fortunately the situation never presented itself.
Don't you see gypsies in the Netherlands?
Quote from: Valmy on February 24, 2015, 04:14:25 PM
Don't you see gypsies in the Netherlands?
Not really. I mean there are gypsies, of course, but they tend to keep to their trailer parks. Unless you happen to live nearby, you'd have to seek them out.
It seems that as soon as gypsies cross into Germanic language territory they stop pick pocketting and accordion playing and move into copper wire theft
Too bad they don't keep the accordioning play.
Quote from: Tyr on February 24, 2015, 06:29:07 PM
It seems that as soon as gypsies cross into Germanic language territory they stop pick pocketting and accordion playing and move into copper wire theft
Over here they do both things.
Quote from: The Larch on February 24, 2015, 06:39:29 PM
Quote from: Tyr on February 24, 2015, 06:29:07 PM
It seems that as soon as gypsies cross into Germanic language territory they stop pick pocketting and accordion playing and move into copper wire theft
Over here they do both things.
Really depends where you are. Touristy city centres are target-rich environments. In the countryside and small town there's more copper wire theft.
As for Paris, touristy métro lines like the 1 (yellow line Champs-Élysées/Louvre/Bastille) and 6 (green line Eiffel Tower) are among their favourites.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on February 24, 2015, 04:05:27 PM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 24, 2015, 01:48:22 PM
Hotel Joyce - Astotel
3.0 of 5
29 rue la Bruyere, 75009 Paris, France how does this one sound? I just want to feel safe. dont care if we need to ride the metro.
Neighborhood is fine, you're even not far away to a German Lutheran church if you really, really need it.
Not sure if Lustindarkness will appreciate being within walking distance of the big department stores such as Printemps or Galeries Lafayette though ;)
Foul!
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 24, 2015, 03:00:51 PM
I wonder if beating the crap out of a pickpocket would get me in trouble? :hmm:
No one wants to answer my serious questions? :glare:
Nobody is volunteering to be our guide?????? :huh:
The McDonald's at Metro Cadet is decent.
:wub:
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 24, 2015, 07:37:10 PM
Nobody is volunteering to be our guide?????? :huh:
I'd love to, but you'd only end up with a very eccentric view of London. :D
Plus I'll likely be busy doing something a bit similar for money elsewhere in England. :(
Tricky (RH) is your man, if he can be persuaded to leave his Northern redoubt and march on the Capital.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on February 24, 2015, 02:29:28 PM
Watch out for gypsy pickpocket kids in Rome, especially around the Vatican. They work in teams, so if you see one kid coming from your front with a sign about being hungry blah blah, watch out for his crew coming from your sides.
I don't remember encountering this filth in Rome. But there were fucking EVERYWHERE in Florence, and some in Pisa as well.
The leaning tower was a Gypsy Convention.
Quote from: Valmy on February 24, 2015, 09:01:20 PM
The leaning tower was a Gypsy Convention.
When I was there I remember mostly black dudes hanging around it trying to sell fake Rolexes to tourists.
Like with Wyoming, I just zoomed right past it.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 24, 2015, 07:37:10 PM
Nobody is volunteering to be our guide?????? :huh:
I'd be happy to give you an archaeologist's tour of Rome, had I been there.
Now, if you're willing to fly me in for a day or two, we can talk. ^_^
Quote from: Tyr on February 24, 2015, 06:29:07 PM
It seems that as soon as gypsies cross into Germanic language territory they stop pick pocketting and accordion playing and move into copper wire theft
Begging (usually done by malformed cripples after mother/child begging was outlawed), accordion playing/singing in crowded subways and occasionally sending in kids to beg from your table at McD's, KFC or BK.
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 24, 2015, 07:30:42 PM
Quote from: lustindarkness on February 24, 2015, 03:00:51 PM
I wonder if beating the crap out of a pickpocket would get me in trouble? :hmm:
No one wants to answer my serious questions? :glare:
Don't forget they are likely to be minors as RH remarked about Rome, for the same reasons he pointed out. A slap (in the face) is enough. Cops can't do much if they're 12 or so.
what do you recommend to carry camera/wallet in??? Im getting scared now with all these comments :hmm: :ph34r:
I was in Rome last June and had no issues at all with begging. Didn't see a beggar, wasn't approached by one. Lots of black guys hawking cheap sunglasses and sunhats though
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 25, 2015, 11:47:30 AM
what do you recommend to carry camera/wallet in??? Im getting scared now with all these comments :hmm: :ph34r:
One of those around the neck wallet holders is the safest way to go. Or one of those money belts you velcro around your waist.
Camera is tough, but at the very least put the leash around your wrist.
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 25, 2015, 11:47:30 AM
what do you recommend to carry camera/wallet in??? Im getting scared now with all these comments :hmm: :ph34r:
I had everything in a bag. It was tied to my belt and on the inside of my pants near my groin, which I figured not even a pick pocket would grab you there. Passport made it home safely.
Rome feels seedy as shit but I got by OK. There are quite a lot of police around the main tourist areas.
The metro however....
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fs21.postimg.org%2Fysz3mx84n%2FDSC_0460.jpg&hash=453cb7434c3c20e74f255a6ad9af43a13f669994)
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 25, 2015, 11:47:30 AM
what do you recommend to carry camera/wallet in??? Im getting scared now with all these comments :hmm: :ph34r:
If you want to carry a purse, keep a hand on it at all times.
Another option is a shoulder bag, hung over the neck, with the zipper zipped.
Absolutely nothing in your back pockets. This is not negotiable. :ph34r:
Does anyone normally do that?
I read a lot about it as travel advice but have never put my wallet in my back pocket. It just seems...stupid. And uncomfortable
It's the only place people put cell phones.
I generally put stuff in my front pockets. If I'm travelling in pick-pocket prone areas, I'll use a safety pin on the inside of the pocket to pin it close, preventing easy access.
It's a bit of a pain to put in and take out, but it prevents people from sticking their hands in my pocket; and it's less of a pain to deal with and less uncomfortable than those crotch money belts. Less conspicuous too.
Quote from: Jacob on February 25, 2015, 01:12:49 PM
I generally put stuff in my front pockets.
Yep. I like because then I don't have to either sit on things or move them out of my pocket every time I sit down.
Don't worry too much, in my experience the central areas of London and Paris are very tame and mellow, you just need to keep an eye on your valuables in Rome.
No sense is scaring CF--these are really safe cities. But if I'm carrying a big camera I always keep it around my neck.
I travel with 2 cards and I always keep 1 locked in the hotel room (if possible), and carry just more than enough cash for the day. I never carry my passport (if in a place that is mandatory I carry a copy). I follow the principal to carry only what won't ruin my day if I get robbed (no sense carrying a driver's license in europe--though you may be able to use it as a deposit for audio guides at places like the louvre). I keep my bank account reasonably low so that if an ATM thief guy gets a hold of me I won't be able to take out much money.
I just put things in my front pocket, usually with an untucked shirt over the entrance to the pocket.
But I think London, Rome, and Paris are safe enough I wouldn't stress at all.
One thing is that Europeans havent really caught onto the shorts thing. Tshirt, shorts, and flip flops = american tourist.
I'd imagine the Chinese speaking hordes make for safer, more visible, easier and more profitable targets for crooks these days.
I was going to add that I haven't had any such issues in Paris or Rome but then both times I was in non-peak tourist times (February and March). :D
I came very close to having my passport boosted in February.
Last time I had any problems traveling by myself was in 93, in Philadelphia :lol:
As long as you're alert when in crowded areas, and specially on public transport, Rome is perfectly safe. Street hawkers are a PIA, though.
Quote from: alfred russel on February 25, 2015, 01:22:31 PM
No sense is scaring CF--these are really safe cities. But if I'm carrying a big camera I always keep it around my neck.
I travel with 2 cards and I always keep 1 locked in the hotel room (if possible), and carry just more than enough cash for the day. I never carry my passport (if in a place that is mandatory I carry a copy). I follow the principal to carry only what won't ruin my day if I get robbed (no sense carrying a driver's license in europe--though you may be able to use it as a deposit for audio guides at places like the louvre). I keep my bank account reasonably low so that if an ATM thief guy gets a hold of me I won't be able to take out much money.
I just put things in my front pocket, usually with an untucked shirt over the entrance to the pocket.
But I think London, Rome, and Paris are safe enough I wouldn't stress at all.
Finally someone to stop the looped subliminal 'Taken' movie terrorising CF out of even going at all.
CF if you take the sage advice here from recent travellers and residents, you'll be fine.
Surely Lusti has developed a certain set of skills over his long career of watching movies at work that make him a nightmare for people who would do her harm.
When is the last time you were in Rome mongers?
I'm not in Rome, so don't forget it. It's just a silly place I'm going through.
Quote from: alfred russel on February 25, 2015, 01:24:54 PM
One thing is that Europeans havent really caught onto the shorts thing. Tshirt, shorts, and flip flops = american tourist.
Yes please don't wear shorts in a city. It's unseemly.
Quote from: alfred russel on February 25, 2015, 01:24:54 PM
One thing is that Europeans havent really caught onto the shorts thing. Tshirt, shorts, and flip flops = american tourist.
Don't forget the white socks pulled halfway up to the knees. :D
Only day I would not wear shorts will be the Vatican day.
:hug:
Lusti does have sexy legs.... :licklips:
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 25, 2015, 04:57:53 PM
:hug:
Lusti does have sexy legs.... :licklips:
Those are probably deterring Languishites from being your guides. :P
Quote from: mongers on February 25, 2015, 05:02:06 PM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 25, 2015, 04:57:53 PM
:hug:
Lusti does have sexy legs.... :licklips:
Those are probably deterring Languishites from being your guides. :P
:lmfao: I got sexy legs too.... :blush:
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 25, 2015, 07:04:58 PM
Quote from: mongers on February 25, 2015, 05:02:06 PM
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 25, 2015, 04:57:53 PM
:hug:
Lusti does have sexy legs.... :licklips:
Those are probably deterring Languishites from being your guides. :P
:lmfao: I got sexy legs too.... :blush:
Reconsiders. :hmm:
So, Languish meet in London the first week of June? Should I start a new thread for this?
NO
GO MEGA
One vote for MEGATHREAD! Any more?
Lusti.....my oldest has his 21st on the 3rd June, apart from that day it'll be great to come down to London and see CF...........er............and you............again :cool:
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on March 28, 2015, 01:38:41 AM
Lusti.....my oldest has his 21st on the 3rd June, apart from that day it'll be great to come down to London and see CF...........er............and you............again :cool:
:hug:
Quote from: capturedfairy on February 24, 2015, 02:26:24 PM
it is a five minute walk to metro. :)
ok so we have everything booked!!!!! Scary. Because it just became real. this is what we have:
flight out May 24th to Rome
25-29 Rome at Gli Scipioni B&B
29 Flying out from Rome to Paris on Alitalia
29-june 2nd Paris at Hotel Joyce Astotel
June2-06 London Strand Palace Hotel
06 flying back home.
Any volunteers to guise us or hang out???
We're getting closer to May 29 so here's my first recommendation:
http://boutique.lescarsairfrance.com/ihm_vad/index.php?id_category=112&controller=category&id_lang=2 (http://boutique.lescarsairfrance.com/ihm_vad/index.php?id_category=112&controller=category&id_lang=2)
Coach from Roissy CDG Airport to central Paris, it's much cheaper than a taxi, yet almost as fast, and it's not as cramped as the RER (regional express métro) can be. Plus no transfer.
Since the coach arrives in my turf (Etoile/Champs-Elysées/Porte Maillot) I should be able to pick you up and escort you to your hotel. It's a short ride.
I might have to be or go to Germany on the next day though, Saturday 30 May) so please PM the hour of arrival to see if I can make it. Should be back late Sunday though or early Monday.
Since you stay three days, you may be interested by the Paris Visite Card or Paris City Card
http://en.parisinfo.com/what-to-see-in-paris/paris-pass/transport-travel-card-paris-visite (http://en.parisinfo.com/what-to-see-in-paris/paris-pass/transport-travel-card-paris-visite)
They make more sense if you plan to do tourist activities though, otherwise you can buy a day ticket (flat rate) for 6 € or so. A metro ticket is almost 2 € now to give you an idea of the prices.
:yeah: Thanks.
I have no idea on flight times, I have that info at home. And CF is on the road today with her mom, so she may not respond/pm to this today. I'll get that by tonight (my tonight, your tomorrow).
Should I insist that we spend a few bucks and visit Mount St Michel? And if so, why not add a few more $ and hours and visit the American Cemetary in Normandy?
You're on vacation. You're supposed to be spending money.
I don't think I have ever regretted visiting a military cemetery :hmm:
Re the Normandy one specifically, if you rent bikes you can have a really good time touring the beaches etc etc
Mo(u)nt St Michel is one of the marvels of the West so yes. Works over there should be over.
Even with a car, you'll have to park from some distance to the site.
Thank you. CF found some bus deal, but we will also compare with a car rental, wich I would love driving over there.
Sad I won't have my truck to drive some midget cars off the road. :(
The Airborne Musuem is in St. Mere Eglise. One click followed by two clicks.
Quote from: lustindarkness on May 19, 2015, 05:20:30 PM
Thank you. CF found some bus deal, but we will also compare with a car rental, wich I would love driving over there.
Sad I won't have my truck to drive some midget cars off the road. :(
I'd definitely recommend renting a car. It isn't expensive, the driving is quite civilized, and it opens a lot more possibilities (also breaks you from the strict tourist trail).
I once had a few days to spend outside Paris on history nerd stuff, and I went in the other direction: Verdun, the Argonne Forest Memorial, Fort Hackenberg (one of the Maginot Line forts), and Luxembourg (was planning on Bastogne but ran out of time--got stuck wandering around Luxembourg city instead, which was quite pleasant).
I thought Verdun and Hackenberg were really cool. I can't compare with Normandy as I've never been, but I think I made the right decision.
Quote from: Ed Anger on May 19, 2015, 05:43:54 PM
The Airborne Musuem is in St. Mere Eglise. One click followed by two clicks.
Good time of the year to go there, since the temperature should be pleasant and Ed's family is not roaming the Normand countryside yet.
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on May 20, 2015, 12:00:08 AM
Quote from: Ed Anger on May 19, 2015, 05:43:54 PM
The Airborne Musuem is in St. Mere Eglise. One click followed by two clicks.
Good time of the year to go there, since the temperature should be pleasant and Ed's family is not roaming the Normand countryside yet.
Nevertheless, his kids will probably beat Monty to Caen.
Rome and Florence was The Awesome. :yeah: Not easy to leave Rome behind.
Waiting on our flight to Paris. Language will be more limiting on this next phase of the trip.
Glad you enjoyed Italy. :) Anything that particulary stood out for you?
Stood out? A three way fight between the history, the art, and the food. Sistine Chapel maybe my highlight.
Languish, please be informed that this Rican just put sugar cubes in his coffee. Sugar cubes!
Quote from: lustindarkness on May 30, 2015, 07:59:13 AM
Languish, please be informed that this Rican just put sugar cubes in his coffee. Sugar cubes!
:hmm:
Great, another cube nut.
At least, it's not an ice cube in-the-wine nut.
Maybe a bit late, but here's a recipe for having a $1,000 day in Paris on a $100 budget:
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/05/20/travel/frugal-traveler-in-paris.html
Our vacation was The Awesome, thank you Languish for helping us plan it. :hug:
Of all the things I saw in the last two weeks, all of the languishtas are in the list of the highlights of our trip.
In kinda sorta chronological order: Rome, Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Forum, Florence, Paris, Arch de Triumph, Duque de Bragança, Mont Martre, Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre Dame, Mont St Michel, London, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham, British Museum, Tower of London, Richard Hakluyt, Brazen, Monoriu, garbon, Eochaid, Tamas, Museum of London, Greenwich, Nautical Museum, and Observatory.