Ron ... you may be making a mistake driving yourself in Eastern Europe. My wife Shirley and I traveled Lithuania, Russia and the Ukraine a few years ago, and we used guides in each of these areas as well as drivers. First of all, there aren't many (if any) gas stations as you and I know. Rather, once in awhile, you'll see a tanker truck sitting on the side of the road and you pull up to the truck and buy gas - no credit cards - only zlotas are accepted. Secondly, if the car breaks down, and it most likely will, you can't call AAA. Because there aren't that many cars around, and because those that are are older Russian models, for the most part, a car has to come equipped with various tools and extra parts, or you will be out of luck. If you don't want to go the extra expense (and it isn't that much) use trains or buses. It will get you there as fast, or faster, and at a lot less money. Plus, you'll see a lot of country and meet the people. One other point. If you can't speak their language you may end up with another problem - communication. You'll also have a hard time locating "things to see" since you won't be able to read the road signs, if there are any to be noticed. My suggestion is to either hire a driver/guide or still hire a guide and use the train. Hope you enjoy your trip ... it will be a hard oneas the accomodations aren't deluxe.

tedm333@juno.com
Woodland Hills, Ca