<BR>Whether adult or child, no matter what country, no matter what time of year, second pair of shoes should still be comfortable walking shoes (as so should your first) but something that could double for dressy.

This is excellent advice. I found that, after walking all over all day long in my Reeboks, the most comfortable "dress" shoes you can find are best for going out at night.

I was born and raised a boot man. No, not those clunky hiking boots you keep buried in the back closet, but something from Rockport or Bass does the trick. They have solid ankle support (good for rough trails and long city walks) and most of them are dressed up enough that you can get into most restaurants with little trouble. And they usually can clean up with a damp washcloth. Hope this helps (it worked for me in Costa Rica!)

Rockport actually makes a men's dress walking shoe called Dressport. They're available in several styles and colors and I've never found anything equivalent from any other shoe maker. Best of all is that the rubber sole/heel assembly can esily be replaced for about $30-35 periodically. They even come in wingtips! Expect to pay about $95-115 per pair including discounts.

With great trepidation I traveled this year with Birkenstocks, both closed toe and sandals. I had no choice, and it worked like a charm. In the summer at least, we weren't the least out of place in Europe and they were wondrously comfortable. <BR> I also frequently travel with SAS.

I'm an "Easy Spirit" person myself. <BR>I've lived in their model named "motion" for years and just found a new semi-walking show named "harbor". In black it looks almost dressy! They also make men's shoes. <BR>

OK I'm a shoe junkie. I pack at least 3 pair. Dressy black patent sandals (unless its winter). Brown low heeled walking shoes. Navy "echos" suede flat walking shoes. And those funny surf socks when we go to the Caribbean.

I'm a Dr. Martin shoe lover. Not only are there mulitple styles (if you're not into the combat boot look) but they are extremely comfortable. I have 4 pairs altogether (2 boots, sandels, dress shoes) and am always suggesting them to friends. I know many travelors who use them as well. <BR> <BR>Doc's can be expensive but I made my first pair last 3 years and ab. 3 months of traveling and walking in Europe. <BR> <BR>Warning: Doc's take ab. 2 weeks to wear in. During that time your feet WILL hurt no matter how mocho you are. Once you wear them in though you'll never want to wear another pair of shoes. <BR> <BR>Sue