First trip-where should I go?
 

Finally, on the way to Europe. What do you think would be a good first trip?

Will tell you in exchange for cake. <BR>Seriously, we the opinionated Fodorites need the info, as Dr. Evil would say. How long, what are your interests, what intimidates you, are you alone, do you come here often, what's a nice woman like you doing in a Forum like this? Otherwise you'll hear what we all like about Europe and that isn't necessarily going to be useful to you (unless you want to bring one of us--believe Sally Fowler would be happy to show you Paris).

A lot depends on how long you have. I've been to England and Ireland (10days) and to Paris (8 days). Both were terrific "first trips" as I never felt rushed, and got to savor every minute.

My idea of a good first trip is an inexhaustable trust fund and several months. Sadly, nobody I know has either, so.... <BR>I am an advocate of the whirlwind tour.. <BR>a couple of weeks hitting all the high spots and coming home exhausted and with a severe brain-overload. Conversely, I also love the plop-down-in-one-place-ex <BR>plore-in-depth vacation. A woman's gots to know her limitations. Decide which would hurt more: too much & brain death or not enough & chance to absorb. <BR>Or choose a theme: Impressionist paintings? Roman ruins? Street fairs? Opera? Ballet? <BR>No matter what you choose, you'll wish you'd done something else or more or whatever...which explains why travelers keep traveling! <BR>

If your time in Europe is less than 2 weeks, you'll have the best time picking three or fewer cities and exploring. My first trip was Paris, Amsterdam and Brussels/Leuven and it was perfect. The coolest thing about traveling in Europe is the people you'll meet. Take trains, don't rent a car; stay in European style hotels or hostels; be open. If going to France buy a "Learn French in your Car" tape. You'll need the basics and speaking the language adds alot to your experience. Have a great time!

Patty: <BR> <BR>I've one of those who prefers to focus on one country or at most, two countries, rather than the whirlwind tour. As such, I'd suggest you begin your Europe jaunt with England (London & perhaps a few days in the countryside) and then cross the channel to Paris. Both cities are 'user friendly' for a novice - there is a myriad of advice on this forum (where to stay/where to eat/what to see) for these places - and as for any language issues, you'll only need a few basic phrases in French to navigate your way with the Parisiennes. <BR>Obviously, I've a preference for the big cities - others on the forum prefer the smaller towns & less 'touristy' spots. So, that's another element for you to consider - do you want to stroll the Champs D'Elysee, or cruise along the Thames, or is an easier less frenetic pace more of your style? <BR>

Start in Rome, where it all began. Then when you go to other cities everything will all make sense! <BR> <BR>Don't let anything intimadate you (language, food, foreign currency).

Patty, <BR>Your first trip should be to your library or a major bookstore such as Borders or Barnes and Noble. Pick up guidebooks to Europe, delve into them and decide what countries and cities appeal to your interests, then look for specifics in the individual countries' guide books. When you've come up with a wish list, come back to the forum and tell us where you're thinking of going, when and for how long, what your interests are and those of any traveling companions and any budget constraints. With that information you'll get some meaningful and expert advice and recommendations.

<BR>Other considerations too: is a budget involved or is cost no matter (Scandinavia is expensive, Spain and Portugal among the cheapest); are you going alone or with someone else (does his/her interests/habits vary greatly from yours); are you concerned about language barriers or not (if so, you might feel more comfortable in certain countries more than others); are you inclined to rent a car and do it on your own or would you feel more comfortable taking a tour; what time of year are you thinking about (some places are better in certain seasons than others).

Patty: Martha is right! I'd be happy to show you Paris! [You just have to keep me in French bread, goat cheese and a decent red wine...] <BR> <BR>But that got me thinking... The advice you are getting about where and how much you can do in a reasonably short period is good. Many on this forum could provvide [and has provided] lists of sights in myriad locales. But, given my stated desire to be in Paris, I asked myself what are the experiences that make me *sigh* when I hear about someone's trip. It's the art, sure... for me that's a given. But, surprisingly, for a big city, it is an easy city in which to slooooooow down. I love leisurely strolls through the 5eme and 6eme... looking in windows of stores, looking up at the architecture, watching the people. I love leaning on the "parapets" [?] on the quais in the 5eme overlooking the Seine, particularly at the back of Notre Dame. Walking again on Ile St. Louis. If you are off season you can pretend that it is *your* island! I imagine living in one of the grand apartments overlooking the Seine. But my favorite activity is drinking a glass of [usually red] wine with some bread and pate or cheese and just watch Paris go by. <BR>

Spain. Friendly, inexpensive, beautiful, feels European, lots of English spoken.