Betsy

Can anyone give me any input on a tour like this? This is our first trip to Europe. It's a 10 day tour of 7 cities. I'm afraid we'll be on busses most of the trip. Has anyone ever done such a tour? Any recommendations on places to eat? Touring Frankfurt, Cologne, Berlin, Nuremberg,Munich, Oberammergau, & Black Forest. Also, is it safe to travel there now with what's going on in Yugoslavia? I'd appreciate any info that's out there. Thanks

Divino Alves

Hi! I am traveling to Germany in July 15 (arriving in 16), with my wife, two boys (6 and 10), and my mother in law. We're planning to stay 3 days in Köln, where my mother in law was born, then go to the Romantic Route. Are there any recommendations about where to go (cittyes, places), and how long to stay? I would like to go stay 2 days in Vienna, of a 14 days trip. Is it wise to don't make reservations for the hotels in July? Appreciate any help!

Lou

Betsy, <BR>Read your itinerary very closley! Cosmos is a "budget" tour, so make sure you understand what you will "see" (drive by), and what you will "visit" (go in). Also research your hotels to see if they are in the city "center". If the hotel is outside the city it will be more expensive and difficult to see anything on your own. Does the brochure say how much free time you have in the cities, and will it be enough for you? Read the brochure very carefully. If you understand what you are getting, you won't be dissappointed.

Lee

Betsy: Lou is right, taking a tour can be less than you would like. <BR> <BR>I don't like tours. Sure, they can provide insight and the (easy) means to reach a destination, but they tend to not spend adequate time anywhere and typically stop at places where you would likely spend money (Read: "Tourist Trap). It sounds like your trip will be like taste-testing a fine meal, but only being allowed to smell and have but one bite, then wisked away. <BR> <BR>Yes, I have some experience in European travel and like to plan and drive wherever we go, except using public transportation within the cities, but it's the best experience. You go where you want and leave when you want. Your visit is much more meaningful. <BR> <BR>Get some maps and some decent guide books and check it out for yourself, then decide. If you like, email me and I'll send a copy of our 1997 Germany trip notes as well as our itinerary for later this month when we go back yet again. <BR> <BR>Best of luck. <BR>

wes fowler

Betsy, <BR>I wholeheartedly second Lee's comments. A tour of seven cities in ten days will leave you with lasting memories of packing every morning; unpacking every night and little else. Every one of the cities and areas you will be visiting deserve at least seven days devoted to them exclusively. Considering the investment in time and money that you will make, your trip would be both more enjoyable, rewarding and less exhausting if you planned it yourself. If you'd like some ideas in self planning and a less ambitious itinerary, feel free to Email me directly. Between Lee and me, we'll make experienced European travelers of you!