We're all here to help each other for the best travel experience. If you don't agree with an observation, that's fine, but don't get so bitchy about it. I have gotten some good advice from you on this forum and I respect your views, but cool down some. My wife and I are off to the Alsace tomorrow, for a long week-end, hope to hear from you when we return.

I too have noticed that Christina gives negative, disagreable comments on this forum. Sometimes when most people respond positively to someones question, she is at the opposite end and usually starts her comments with "Well!..." And yes, she has given good advise, somtimes detailed advise which I appreciate. However, I would prefer not to hear such negative and bitchy comments when we are all here to learn from each other.

If I may add, Christina is her own self, and I really don't mind the somewhat self-righteous way which she expresses her opinions oftentimes. What does "rubs me the wrong way" from her contributions is the tendency to belittle the inquirer and/or previous posters. That she could toned down a bit. Case in point is a current thread where this nice lady is asking for advice for an extra week near Vienna. Christina's advice had a ton of common sense. Unfortunately, she had to include her unflatering opinion of the lady's travelling experience. No need for that. <BR> <BR>Truth is, I think Christina and Tony Hughes (stellarosa...) are the same person....

Aw, come on. Let's let Christina be Christina. Maybe she had a bad hair day or just wants to let off some steam. I'm more than willing to let her good outweigh her shortness. I applaud her participation. Right?

It does seem to me that it would be better not to address participants' less gracious moments directly--it tends to escalate into nightmares such as the thread on our lameness/uselessness/ general unworthiness to live. Making sure that the insulted get reassurance is probably a better use of our time than trying to reform or rebuke people who are having an off day (or endless series of them). Ignoring the offenders won't make them go away, but at least it won't put them front and center.

Richard: I have to admit, Christina has a way about her replies that can be perceived as insulting. <BR> <BR>After a time, I believe that she is trying to be helpful, which is evidenced by a response, but can come across as being critical, but not really meaning to do so. I don't think it's intentional. <BR> <BR>Being different is what makes all of us individuals. <BR>

Being different is a wonderful thing. However, that does not give a person the right to belittle or criticise others for their views. It's those views that make us different.

<BR>Maira, don't lets start this again . . . <BR> <BR>Christina and I aren't the same person, but we do both have forthright views on the topics in this forum. <BR> <BR>So hang on, the laws states what? That there should be no negative, drisagreeable comments allowed ? Wasn't that what Pol Pot tried? I mean what are you saying, Martha, that I'm an offendor? No doubt you would like to see Christina and myself carted off the the Ronald McDonald centre for mental readjustment. <BR> <BR>Al, I agree with you.Ditto Lee. Ilisa you have a point. Christina keep it up.

I think that making negative personal remarks on this forum is inappropriate and rude. <BR> I am the person who posted the question re: my family's first trip to Vienna and Europe, and I received the unpleasant response from Christina mentioned earlier in this thread. It was my first question posted on the Fodor's forum, and my first introduction to the Forum, so it gave me a very bad impression that someone would personally attack me and my question like that. It caused me to question the validity of the Forum in general. <BR>So I agree with others who suggest that we keep the discussion informative without being critical of the inquirer. It's okay to be critical of a plan, but no need to attack the person.

Maureen, your questions regarding Vienna and Europe were perfectly reasonable and legitimate questions, and you had every right to ask them. I am sorry that you had a negative first experience on this forum. I think most people will agree that they have received tons of valuable advice from here, and hope that you will not let one rude and self-righteous person chase you away. <BR>

Tony....Maira here. I know that I should had said that my closing note was meant as a joke. After I read it myself I realized it wasn't as evident as I thought it was. Either way, no disrespect was intended as I, for one, get the biggest kick out of evrybody's replies.

Maira, don't worry; I'm sure most of us got it. And let's not be so quick to be swayed by Tony/Christina's denials. You know how contrary he/she/they are.

Both Christina and Tony (Stellarosa) are pathetic. I would just like to relate two quotes from Samuel Johnson, first for Tony: <BR>"Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel." <BR>Now for Christina: <BR>"Of all the griefs that harass the distrest <BR>Sure most bitter is the scornful jest." <BR>I would suggest that each time these two drop their little digital excrements on the unsuspecting that two thing happen. First slam the offender and then refer the innocent to this page so they can see that others care more about them than these pathetic two. If T and C want to be offensive and helpful, go to the Lonely Planet and Rough Guide pages and leave these to those who wish only to be helpful.

Joe..strong words...'slam the offender' <BR> <BR>Please explain the Samuel Johnson connection will you because I can't see it. Oh by the by, I happen to think Samuel Johnson was a tedious old git with his pompous remarks - you must know that ridic. one about London. The silly sod only ever thought of himself - didn't actually realise that some people thought differently. He also didn't like Scots. Now I am not sure how much Johnson you have read but what was your point? <BR> <BR>If being a patriot means I am also a scoundrel then count me in. <BR> <BR>ps 3 's' letters in Stellarossa. <BR>Enjoy <BR>Tony

I just don't bother to answer any of you anymore because I am so tired of the pettiness and rudeness on this forum. It's really a shame. Perhaps it will be better in the future as it was in the past. In the meantime, I will keep my advice to myself. <BR>

Cassie .... who asked you anyway ?

Whoa!!! My first morning on this forum and what an earful! I know I am going to get lots of wonderful tips on this forum and am looking forward to it! Can we all just get along? Take a trip and get over it! Any ideas on Italy anyone?

Wow again

...and, back at the O.K. corral. <BR> <BR>You see this never gets old, someone always wants to complain. I especially like those who complain about complaining, and therefore become that which they so much despise. <BR> <BR>Anyone remember the Monty Python bit about complaining (Martha)? <BR>

I can't imagine how this got back to the top! Christina does offer a wealth of excellent information, and is much kinder and gentler about it these days. So, please, no more bad press. By-gones!