Prague,Munich, Salzburg,Vienna, Budapest-just returned
 

Just returned from the mentioned cities. Traveled between them by train. Any questions that I can answer? Had a great time.

Glenn, <BR>Where and what did you enjoy the most? I've been to Munich & Salzburg (loved it!) and looking at Prague and Vienna for the next trip. <BR>Thanks <BR>Irene <BR>

Can you recommend a good hotel in Prague, well located and in the $100 range? Thanks a lot. Deepa

Glenn - My wife & I are looking to train to many of the same cities; Vienna, Prague, Budapest <BR>and - add one - Krakow. I have three questions: What traveling order would you suggest (Why?); What advice on taking the trains?; How did you arrange the train (Knowledgeable agency or personally?) Thanks for offering to share your experience!

We went in May and after landing in Amsterdam, we flew to Munich and from there took trains. You will need to purchase a Europass and I suggest getting it through a travel agent although you can also get them through their www site. You will need to purchase a special "add on" for the Czeck Republic as they are not included in the Euro pass. Trains are a very pleasant way to travel. After Prague we then went to Vienna and from there to Italy. Generally you won't need to make reservations but if there is a holiday or special event, you would be wise to reserve ahead of time. On this last trip we found out that the ticket people will not make changes 3 or (6)? hours before the departure time; however, you can go directly to a car and "plead" with the conductor of that car to see if you can get on. We needed to be in Italy and ended up doing that! We enjoy trains because you get a chance to meet so many interesting people and don't have the hassle of entering a foriegn city and trying to find safe parking facilities.

We are planning a trip to Prague in September and I was wondering what ATM network they are using (Shazaam, Cirrus, Plus, etc.) to make sure that my ATM card works there. Thank you!

<BR>Glenn--could you recommend an authentic restaurant you found in Vienna? Will be there 2 nights and would like to eat at something very authentic even if a little expensive...

Lots of questions: <BR>what was your route? <BR>how long did you stay? <BR>any night trains? <BR>we are planning a similar low-budget trip and would appreciate any help! <BR>

Lisa: <BR>The leg from Prague to Budapest is 8 hours--Vienna is about half-way between the two & a little west. Try the German rail site at bahn.hafas.de It will give you all info--Vienna is Wien & Prague is Praha, otherwise, it is the same. If you need nice, clean, shower & toilet in room, helpful English-speaking staff, and full breakfast for $35-40/night in Prague & Budapest, email me. In Prague the pezion is 5-10 min from anywhere. In Budapest, it is a private residence of a retired lawyer with a terrace overlooking the city.

I do need some info on Salzburg & Vienna. Do you know of nice, clean, inexpensive pensions (close to American Embassy in Vienna)? I plan on going there & Poland this November. Any other recommendations for those cities? Thanking you in advance.

Glenn - I am leaving for London, Pargue and Budapest next week. When I read of your Budapest accomodations I just had to ask if I may have the details.

Regarding ATMs in Prague - Cirrus and Plus systems are everywhere. Incidentally, you get a better exchange rate from ATMs than you do from changing traveller's checks or cash.