I first logged on to this site on September 8, 2001, in anticipation of our first trip to Italy. (Wished I'd found it sooner!!). <BR>Since that time, I've logged on every day and learned: <BR> Where the "Lot Valley" is. <BR> What a white sapote is. <BR> What a "thread" is. <BR> What "to the top" or ttt means. <BR> What an incredibly clever, witty, generous, helpful, mostly very nice bunch of people post on this site!! <BR> <BR>I still don't know what it means to be "flamed" -- doesn't sound good...

Hi , I am new to this but I think I have been flamed since writing some of my replies...it seems to mean that you are saying something someone else does not like and they attack you for it..I think.It seems to be why so many people use xx or anon for names-But keep reading & writing-it is fun and so informative and there seem to be many more nice people than mean old flamers!

I have been an onlooker for sometime and a seldom poster. However I have learned a lot from some of the very helpful regulars on this site. I thank everyone who has valid, useful info to share with others. I have learned a lot in preparation for my first european trip this coming new year. I feel like I am ready to go.

How incredibly human we all are. There are nicer humans and crueller humans and funny humans and humorless humans. And sometimes they're all the same person! <BR> <BR>I think doing all this over the Internet means that you get to see more facets of the people participating than you would in a live conversation.

interesting idea.

The white sapotes DID ripen, and didn't take all that long after we got them (I did do as instructed and put them in a paper bag, along with a banana). <BR> <BR>And I used them in a dessert with blueberries and a mango, with a creamy spread/cookie crumb topping. Might be worth trying to write up as a recipe, I guess. <BR> <BR>Best wishes, <BR> <BR>Rex <BR>

I've learned you shouldn't leave centimes as part of a tip in France.

Rex <BR>This is probably old news, but did you <BR>do a posting when you got back from your Fodorite group trip to Italy? I did see the picture on my email, thanks, was wondering how the trip went. <BR>Since I was away, I assume you posted while I was gone <BR>If you know where the thread is,I'll look for it <BR>thanks

The #1 thing I have learned on this site is that people are resentful if you AREN't cheap. If you say you would pay $500 for a pashima shawl, or you like to stay at Cipriani while in Venice, you will be bashed. People on this board have to remember this is a travle site, which draws people who want to talk about travel. You have a wide variety of income levels on this site. I don't understand why someone would be so put out just because you have the money to spend on having what you want. I, personally, think cheapness is a character flaw.

that some of us have a rather lofty opinion of ourselves, and seem to enjoy flaunting our wealth.

That, just like the rest of the planet, the posters here are all unique, special, and complex human beings, each with their own set of idiosynchrasies, likes, dislikes, strengths, and weaknesses. Love 'em all! (f'rinstance, I have an occasional spelling problem) <BR>ja

Among lovers of European travel who are also internet users, there's a higher percentage of the following types of people than in the general population: <BR>witty <BR>articulate <BR>people with free time on their jobs <BR>nasty

I have learned to not take it personally except for the ones that are sooo nice...then I take them very personally.

I learned in the last three months that just like real life most people are kind, helpful, and good. There are always some who try to ruin things for everyone else,(being critical, sarcastic, etc.) I don't see what they get out of it, but I don't understand Bin Laden either. I do seem to notice some of the negative people never use real names or e-mails, just xxxxxx's I wonder why? I have nothing to hide and don't mind anyone e-mailing me for help advice or just to talk. I still believe most people are sincere and I choose to concentrate on them.

I've learned that many people are sincerely helpful. That here, as anywhere, there are cranks and nasties to be ignored--seems to be part of human nature. I've read so many great tips, to all of you regular travelers who bother to come here and answer questions, just want you to know how much I appreciate your efforts and kindness.

I have learned to always check with this board if I have questions about hotels, restaurants, etc. This board and the kind people who support it have given me the confidence to travel independently and make my on choices on where to go and what to see. Thanks to all of you for your kind help!

ttt

I have learned that the scope of this forum is far reaching and that we are a mini reflection of world-wide relationships. I am in total agreement with ja - everyone's thoughts and opinions are interesting and valuable.

We used TC for our first trip to Europe in 1999 and our trip to China last year. This board has taught me that ATM's and credit cards are a better way to go. I'm still looking for a bank which will give a reasonable ATM rate (mine charges 3%) but I have changed to a credit card which doesn't charge the 3% exchange rate my bank "inflicts" on its customers.

I've learned that you can make friends on the internet!<BR>