First Time Traveling Outside US
Sep 19th, 2008, 11:59 AM
#43
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I definitely recommend that you visit Tuscany for your first overseas adventure. Art, wine and food are what this region is all about. The people are extremely friendly and most speak English so you will immediately feel comfortable. That's not always the case in other countries nor in large cities such as Rome or Paris.
I would try to find an apartment or villa or house to stay in during your visit as opposed to a hotel. Many agriturismo's offer rooms, cooking classes, trips to the market, etc.
Where ever you decide to go you'll have an unbelievable experience!
I would try to find an apartment or villa or house to stay in during your visit as opposed to a hotel. Many agriturismo's offer rooms, cooking classes, trips to the market, etc.
Where ever you decide to go you'll have an unbelievable experience!
Sep 20th, 2008, 03:51 AM
#44
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Guenmai, you say you have never stayed in a hostel so I can forgive your commment about finding yourself with a bunch of teenages.
Hostels are for everyone, including the over 50s. I still use them in places (like London) that are expensive, and I can assure you they are NOT filled with teenagers. Otherwise I, like you, go for cheap pensions, cos when push comes to shove I prefer my own room.
I was in my mid-40s by the time I stayed in my first hostel. But times change. There are far fewer cheap options in Europe in 2008 than there were in the 70s. So if I were 26, and money conscious, I'd be hostelling.
More bang for your buck and you meet a lot of interesting people.
I'm excited for the OP and just wanted her to know, in case she didn't already, that there were options.
Hostels are for everyone, including the over 50s. I still use them in places (like London) that are expensive, and I can assure you they are NOT filled with teenagers. Otherwise I, like you, go for cheap pensions, cos when push comes to shove I prefer my own room.
I was in my mid-40s by the time I stayed in my first hostel. But times change. There are far fewer cheap options in Europe in 2008 than there were in the 70s. So if I were 26, and money conscious, I'd be hostelling.
More bang for your buck and you meet a lot of interesting people.
I'm excited for the OP and just wanted her to know, in case she didn't already, that there were options.
Sep 22nd, 2008, 08:45 AM
#45
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Hey! I have noticed that some of you are inquiring about my financial limitations/expectations. This is probably the most difficult aspect for me in planning this trip. Over the weekend, I have had the opportunity to browse some of the books you suggested (Europe through the Back Door is excellent!) and I feel like I have a somewhat better idea of what this trip will cost. As far as accomodations are concerend, I am not opposed to spending around $80-$100 a night. I know that this is at the bottom of the hotel price range, but all I really need is a bed, shower and toilet in a safe and clean environment. I am not completely ruling out the possiability of a hostel, however I may have other individuals traveling with me who might not be open to that possibility. I have also read that Bed & Breakfasts, particularly in England are a good value. If anyone has had experience with these, I would love to hear about it. Also, any specific hotels or hostel reviews would be awesome!
So far I am still debating between a London/Ireland trip and a Rome/N. Italy trip. I was considering a London/Rome trip but I am concerned about the additional cost/time to travel between the two. I think that simple might be better for my first time around.
I am also looking into the travel program provided by my alumni association. Have any of you every taken part in one of these? It seems like a good deal. These trips are provided by a company called Go Ahead Tours, and they seem like a good mix between self guided and guided tours. If you have any suggestions or reviews on this experience, please let me know.
As always I appreciate your suggestions and comments! I make a point to check this posting everyday, so keep em' coming!
So far I am still debating between a London/Ireland trip and a Rome/N. Italy trip. I was considering a London/Rome trip but I am concerned about the additional cost/time to travel between the two. I think that simple might be better for my first time around.
I am also looking into the travel program provided by my alumni association. Have any of you every taken part in one of these? It seems like a good deal. These trips are provided by a company called Go Ahead Tours, and they seem like a good mix between self guided and guided tours. If you have any suggestions or reviews on this experience, please let me know.
As always I appreciate your suggestions and comments! I make a point to check this posting everyday, so keep em' coming!
Sep 22nd, 2008, 11:10 AM
#46
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I think London and Ireland are misdirections based on your list of things you like.
You HAVE to talking Tuscany; or Provence (you have no idea how hard it was to type that
- Marseilles has just been elected the next European Capital of Culture and the wine from the area is the closest to your wine types in France (mid you, you could go somewhere else and widen your wine experience; or, thirdly, Spain based around Madrid, Seville and Grenada.
I'm pretty certain I'd be doing Tuscany and Venice if I were in your shoes.
You HAVE to talking Tuscany; or Provence (you have no idea how hard it was to type that
- Marseilles has just been elected the next European Capital of Culture and the wine from the area is the closest to your wine types in France (mid you, you could go somewhere else and widen your wine experience; or, thirdly, Spain based around Madrid, Seville and Grenada.I'm pretty certain I'd be doing Tuscany and Venice if I were in your shoes.
Sep 23rd, 2008, 03:20 AM
#47
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art, wine, food and history.
Then Italy is a sane choice as your second destination once you have found your feet in a country that speaks the same language.
You'll find as much history as you can manage in London, and art galleries that are world class. The food isn't bad.
Maybe you should be looking at how to travel between London and Italy? Has anyone yet mentioned budget airlines?
Have you checked out easyjet, ryanair (there are others).
Cos it's sounding as if you should go to London first, then fly to Venice on a cheapie; stay a bit; then train it to Florence or Rome and either fly back to London - or, if you are smart, get an open jaw air ticket that allows you to fly into one destination and out from another.
I actually still think Spain is a better destination for those on a budget. And far less touristy. But the most important thing is that you know you have options. $80-100 for accommo? Do you intend that all in your party have rooms of their own?
Or is this per person and you will be sharing with another in your party?
You can actually find a good room in London in that range, and in all the Spanish towns you might wish to visit (might have to share a bathroom though). Venice at that price might be a challenge. But then you can save in one location to spend more in another.
Don't be put off by the idea of sharing a bathroom. Standards are generally very high in the bracket above absolute budget, and there are usually several loos and several showers available.
All the best.
Then Italy is a sane choice as your second destination once you have found your feet in a country that speaks the same language.
You'll find as much history as you can manage in London, and art galleries that are world class. The food isn't bad.
Maybe you should be looking at how to travel between London and Italy? Has anyone yet mentioned budget airlines?
Have you checked out easyjet, ryanair (there are others).
Cos it's sounding as if you should go to London first, then fly to Venice on a cheapie; stay a bit; then train it to Florence or Rome and either fly back to London - or, if you are smart, get an open jaw air ticket that allows you to fly into one destination and out from another.
I actually still think Spain is a better destination for those on a budget. And far less touristy. But the most important thing is that you know you have options. $80-100 for accommo? Do you intend that all in your party have rooms of their own?
Or is this per person and you will be sharing with another in your party?
You can actually find a good room in London in that range, and in all the Spanish towns you might wish to visit (might have to share a bathroom though). Venice at that price might be a challenge. But then you can save in one location to spend more in another.
Don't be put off by the idea of sharing a bathroom. Standards are generally very high in the bracket above absolute budget, and there are usually several loos and several showers available.
All the best.
Sep 23rd, 2008, 03:52 AM
#48
Since this is your first trip, I would choose a place that is different and speaks different languages. I only speak English and some Spanglish like above. I bought a french book and tripped my way through pleasantries and had a wonderful trip. It is easy!
I would choose either Paris and some surrounding areas or Rome with some other Italian towns. I would only go to one country otherwise you are moving too fast and can't really enjoy the trip. We had 14 days this past summer and moved way too much. We were in three countries in 14 days and it was a great overview, but I felt cheated out of some of the nice towns we went through. So, if I had the chance to do it differently, I would spend a week in one city. Longer than a week, in one country, but maybe a city with a few day trips out. Enjoy your adventure and all the planning!
I would choose either Paris and some surrounding areas or Rome with some other Italian towns. I would only go to one country otherwise you are moving too fast and can't really enjoy the trip. We had 14 days this past summer and moved way too much. We were in three countries in 14 days and it was a great overview, but I felt cheated out of some of the nice towns we went through. So, if I had the chance to do it differently, I would spend a week in one city. Longer than a week, in one country, but maybe a city with a few day trips out. Enjoy your adventure and all the planning!
Sep 23rd, 2008, 04:14 AM
#49
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Hi anna5545,
DH and I started travelling when we were in our 30s and we made a progression. The first 1st trip was a guided tour and DH and I were so happy that someone else took care of all the details and language issues. On the other hand, we glanced longingly at some awesome places where we were given only 2 hours to explore.
The 2nd trip was also guided but with more free time (we wanted that). This trip was through the local college and we'd do it again. We still liked having someone else do all the bookings.
After that, we used a wonderful travel agent who arranged our flights and hotels, then we designed our own itinerary based upon our pre-trip reading.
As we became more knowledgeable, we "winged it" more often. I still feel like we waste time schlepping for tickets but the internet makes moot that problem more and more.
At ages 60 and 62, we have now been to Italy 7 times, Paris 4 times, S. France twice, England twice, and Greece and Canada once.
For art, London, Paris, Rome, Florence. Friend of mine saw Prado in Madrid and was awed. For magic, Venice and Tuscany/Umbria.
You are starting at a great age! So see what "calls out to you" and pack in as much as you can in your 10 days! Wish we didn't have to wait a year to find out what you end up doing!
DH and I started travelling when we were in our 30s and we made a progression. The first 1st trip was a guided tour and DH and I were so happy that someone else took care of all the details and language issues. On the other hand, we glanced longingly at some awesome places where we were given only 2 hours to explore.
The 2nd trip was also guided but with more free time (we wanted that). This trip was through the local college and we'd do it again. We still liked having someone else do all the bookings.
After that, we used a wonderful travel agent who arranged our flights and hotels, then we designed our own itinerary based upon our pre-trip reading.
As we became more knowledgeable, we "winged it" more often. I still feel like we waste time schlepping for tickets but the internet makes moot that problem more and more.
At ages 60 and 62, we have now been to Italy 7 times, Paris 4 times, S. France twice, England twice, and Greece and Canada once.
For art, London, Paris, Rome, Florence. Friend of mine saw Prado in Madrid and was awed. For magic, Venice and Tuscany/Umbria.
You are starting at a great age! So see what "calls out to you" and pack in as much as you can in your 10 days! Wish we didn't have to wait a year to find out what you end up doing!
Sep 23rd, 2008, 04:33 AM
#50
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I'd plump for London and Paris.
London is the capital of the world - and was once the capital of the world's greatest empire. Being a thieving bunch of scamps we pretty much helped ourselves to anything we liked the look of and brought it back. We're not giving it back either.
That means we have first rate galleries and museums. Our architecture (luftwaffe and town planners aside) is top drawer and our food is better than paris (save the cries of outrage it is, and it's cheaper).
From london get the train to Paris - again great galleries, not bad museums (and the Louvre is both and with your tastes the Musee D'Orsay will knock your socks off. Also Monet's Garden is an easy day trip) and because they are surrender monkeys none of the city was destroyed in the war.
Tolerable food (but expensive) unless you are prepared to fling money around in which case probably the best eating place on Earth.
Hotels in Paris are cheaper than London - but otherwise Paris is marginally more expensive.
I go there at least 6 times a year (the train means it's basically a suburb of London) and I'm nowhere near finished with it yet.
Don't worry about the language. I speak pretty good french and never get a chance to use it as when people hear my accent they start talking to me in English. This isn't true outside the tourist hot spots - but hey, you are a tourist!
Three cities is one too many IMHO.
ps: >>>>I did not care for London much. Very crowded and not many English in London.>>>
I have a nasty suspicion that Fodors has just hit a new low.
London is the capital of the world - and was once the capital of the world's greatest empire. Being a thieving bunch of scamps we pretty much helped ourselves to anything we liked the look of and brought it back. We're not giving it back either.
That means we have first rate galleries and museums. Our architecture (luftwaffe and town planners aside) is top drawer and our food is better than paris (save the cries of outrage it is, and it's cheaper).
From london get the train to Paris - again great galleries, not bad museums (and the Louvre is both and with your tastes the Musee D'Orsay will knock your socks off. Also Monet's Garden is an easy day trip) and because they are surrender monkeys none of the city was destroyed in the war.
Tolerable food (but expensive) unless you are prepared to fling money around in which case probably the best eating place on Earth.
Hotels in Paris are cheaper than London - but otherwise Paris is marginally more expensive.
I go there at least 6 times a year (the train means it's basically a suburb of London) and I'm nowhere near finished with it yet.
Don't worry about the language. I speak pretty good french and never get a chance to use it as when people hear my accent they start talking to me in English. This isn't true outside the tourist hot spots - but hey, you are a tourist!
Three cities is one too many IMHO.
ps: >>>>I did not care for London much. Very crowded and not many English in London.>>>
I have a nasty suspicion that Fodors has just hit a new low.
Nov 24th, 2008, 09:10 PM
#52
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I suggest you start with a few days in London, fly to Italy for a few days and return to London for the last 2 nights before you return to the US. (eg. Fly from Atlanta to London, stay for 3 nights, fly to Italy - Rome with Ryanair or Venice with easyjet) stay for 4 nights, return to London for 2 nights.
Nov 24th, 2008, 11:31 PM
#53
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Hi Anna,
I would highly recommend Italy - I just started traveling outside the US a couple years ago (at 26 also!) and Italy is just gorgeous. I think some of the fun in traveling to Europe is experiencing a place with a different language.
For your lodging - I would highly recommend looking at www.hostelworld.com and www.hostelbookers.com (Hostel World has a really good review system and Hostel Bookers doesn't charge a booking fee - I usually do my research on the first and book on the 2nd if possible). Hostels in Europe aren't all dorms - we always stay in private ensuite rooms - like 1 star hotels. Usually it's just a bed and a bathroom but we don't need anything else as we try not to spend any time in the room!
London is the one place we really, really struggled to find a place to stay. Ended up at a horrible hotel in Paddington for 120 pounds a night which was the cheapest we could find. Italy was much, much cheaper at least the places we were (The Dolomites, Venice and Verona).
Good luck!
PittPurple
I would highly recommend Italy - I just started traveling outside the US a couple years ago (at 26 also!) and Italy is just gorgeous. I think some of the fun in traveling to Europe is experiencing a place with a different language.
For your lodging - I would highly recommend looking at www.hostelworld.com and www.hostelbookers.com (Hostel World has a really good review system and Hostel Bookers doesn't charge a booking fee - I usually do my research on the first and book on the 2nd if possible). Hostels in Europe aren't all dorms - we always stay in private ensuite rooms - like 1 star hotels. Usually it's just a bed and a bathroom but we don't need anything else as we try not to spend any time in the room!
London is the one place we really, really struggled to find a place to stay. Ended up at a horrible hotel in Paddington for 120 pounds a night which was the cheapest we could find. Italy was much, much cheaper at least the places we were (The Dolomites, Venice and Verona).
Good luck!
PittPurple
Nov 25th, 2008, 07:55 AM
#54
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Too bad Pittpurple didn't try Priceline. It's a great source for London. People report getting 4-star hotels for less than $100/night.
And, afterall, some people just want more space. My husband, in particular. I tear my hair out trying to find bigger rooms for him. More often, we're renting apartments.
And, afterall, some people just want more space. My husband, in particular. I tear my hair out trying to find bigger rooms for him. More often, we're renting apartments.
Nov 25th, 2008, 10:02 AM
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Anna,
I see you are still planning.
Taking into consideration the time you have for travel and where you live, here is my suggestions.
Fly open-jaw to the least expense flight you can find. You should be able to do this for about $600. Select the things you want to do before you go and investigate where they are, when they are open and how much they cost. If you want to travel around alot i.e. more than 5 countries, buy an unlimited rail pass. This is the cheapest way to get around Europe. Stay in B&B's or hostels as much as possible, that is also the least expensive.
Other than that, the rest is anything that happens you should be open and flexible. Europe is realitively small compared to the US, but there are too many things to see during a short trip, so don't try to see too much. Enjoy your self.
Greg
I see you are still planning.
Taking into consideration the time you have for travel and where you live, here is my suggestions.
Fly open-jaw to the least expense flight you can find. You should be able to do this for about $600. Select the things you want to do before you go and investigate where they are, when they are open and how much they cost. If you want to travel around alot i.e. more than 5 countries, buy an unlimited rail pass. This is the cheapest way to get around Europe. Stay in B&B's or hostels as much as possible, that is also the least expensive.
Other than that, the rest is anything that happens you should be open and flexible. Europe is realitively small compared to the US, but there are too many things to see during a short trip, so don't try to see too much. Enjoy your self.
Greg
Feb 12th, 2009, 06:21 PM
#58
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anna- it has been awhile since you checked in. I suspect now is the time when you will be making a permanent decision on where you will go, since many places will start booking up quickly.
I vote for Italy. Fly into Venice. Spend 3 days/nights. Train to Florence, spend 2 nights. Train to Rome. Spend the remainder of your time here.
You will be in heaven.
I don't believe you need to go to an "English-speaking" country first. Whether you are solo or with friends, you will be fine in Italy. And it has absolutely everything you are looking for- art/food/history.
In Rome, there is a "hotel" run by the nuns near the Vatican. Very reasonable. No tv or phone- clean, safe and a bed to sleep on. (I believe Rick Steves has this one in his book.) Of course, if you are going to be in Rome longer, an apartment would be cheaper. Not just because the rent is cheaper, but you can also prepare a few of your own meals and save that way.
In Florence, I recommend the Hotel Casci. Fabulous location, family-owned, great hospitality, excellent price. (Just a couple blocks from the Duomo.)
http://www.hotelcasciflorence.com/en/location.htm
In Venice, the Corte 1321 B&B. Owners are mother/daughter Americans. Fabulous location, beautiful and spacious rooms, loved it.
http://www.corte1321.com/en/sent_request.htm
Buon Viaggio!
I vote for Italy. Fly into Venice. Spend 3 days/nights. Train to Florence, spend 2 nights. Train to Rome. Spend the remainder of your time here.
You will be in heaven.
I don't believe you need to go to an "English-speaking" country first. Whether you are solo or with friends, you will be fine in Italy. And it has absolutely everything you are looking for- art/food/history.
In Rome, there is a "hotel" run by the nuns near the Vatican. Very reasonable. No tv or phone- clean, safe and a bed to sleep on. (I believe Rick Steves has this one in his book.) Of course, if you are going to be in Rome longer, an apartment would be cheaper. Not just because the rent is cheaper, but you can also prepare a few of your own meals and save that way.
In Florence, I recommend the Hotel Casci. Fabulous location, family-owned, great hospitality, excellent price. (Just a couple blocks from the Duomo.)
http://www.hotelcasciflorence.com/en/location.htm
In Venice, the Corte 1321 B&B. Owners are mother/daughter Americans. Fabulous location, beautiful and spacious rooms, loved it.
http://www.corte1321.com/en/sent_request.htm
Buon Viaggio!
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