Europe Travel Planner 10


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Eastern Europe Travel Planner Web TransitionsAbroad.com Home Work Study Travel Living Transitions Abroad Magazine September/October 2000 Related Topics Independent Travel Budget Travel More by the Author Work in Prague Paying Bills Back Home Eastern Europe Travel Planner 10 Tips for Visiting The Other Europe By Mishelle Shepard Its true that the majority of Eastern European destinations are not for every traveler. Those who seek comfort and luxury should probably not venture far beyond capital cities like Prague, Budapest, Berlin, Tallinn, and Warsaw. But for those wishing to travel beyond the tourist zone and seek real off-the-beaten path places, people and experiences, Eastern Europe has countless options. Musicians add ambiance to a stroll on the famous St. Charles Bridge in Prague (Photo by Kent St. John) Guidebooks and locals have different definitions of what exactly constitutes Eastern and Central and Southern Europe. Including Albania and Romania with the same traveling advice given for the Czech Republic and former East Germany poses loads of obvious problems. Still, some general tips apply to many countries and can help alleviate minor discomforts. Bring Some Necessities I laughed the first time I left for Eastern Europe in 1990 and my grandfather told me to bring toilet paper. Thinking surely since his visit to communist Russia in the 70s theres been some improvement, I dismissed the idea. Little did I know that after a couple of weeks I would be begging my family to send me even a 4-pack of bargain brand. Although I wouldnt dream of loading myself down with such things as kleenex, plastic zipper bags, feminine products, or anti-perspirant, outside the main capitals such things are still difficult to come by. Even in a decent restaurant in a major capital the toilet paper resembles something close to a thin brown-paper lunch bag, and in public facilities its rationed according to a per-square price. I consider traveling with emergency reserve tissue an absolute necessity. Choosing Accommodations Planning ahead online is now so convenient that its a waste of time not to make reservations when traveling to the major cities in summer. In general, however, even where accommodations are plentiful there can be lack of mid-priced choices. The convenient and popular chains that have sprung up all over the West have not yet filtered deeply into Eastern Europe. When considering where to stay, a good up-to-date guidebook with phone numbers of accommodations in your price range provides quick and easy piece of mind. Some countries also have extensive hotel and pension listings online that offer discounted reservations, but a follow-up call or fax is still a good idea. In smaller towns, hotels are reasonably priced and can be found right in the town center. Remember, however, that public transportation stops early in the small towns and a lack of taxis could find you stranded. Even in a heavily touristed spa town like Karlovy Vary during the International Film Festival, a stay in the pedestrian center with breakfast in a well-run 2-star hotel costs about $40. Pensions are a good budget choice in larger cities and are usually friendlier than a crowded hotel. Still, pensions are only a good option when theyre close to public transport, because a late night taxi ride when public transportation is sparse can quickly offset the savings in room cost. The same goes for private rooms offered by individualschanging from bus to subway to tram can cost considerable time and money. When alone, a hostel cant be beat for meeting other travelers. Junior hotels are a similar option in many Eastern European countries and they often rent bikes and other sports equipment. And hostels are not just for students, they offer an affordable alternative for families and other budget-minded travelers. Camping is a great way to meet lots of locals, but, of course, packing gear is inconvenient when traveling around a city. As in Western Europe, the bungalows fill up quickly in summer, so hauling around a tent may be unavoidable. Unfortunately, in a few countries the camping facilities might be the best accommodations available. Money In major cities credit cards are an easy and safe bet, but not some pensions and campgrounds or smaller bars and restaurants. When paying with a credit card outside the capitals, be warned, sometimes the machine is (mysteriously) broken, and youll be asked to pay in cash. If its absolutely necessary for you to pay by card, its best to make sure in advance. Cash machines are easy to come by in cities, but rare in villages. Carrying cash to smaller destinations is unavoidable, but costs are still relatively low outside the popular spots, so a little goes a long way. The foreigner pricing system still exists but is becoming less common because merchants realize travelers dont appreciate spending two times the normal price for the same services. Not everything is a bargain in Eastern Europe and doing a bit of research can help you avoid mistaken assumptions or false claims. For example, skiing in some Eastern European destinations is just not worth the meager reduction in cost when you consider the T-lifts, crowds and quality of rental equipment. Beyond the Capitals Traveling as an English-speaker to small towns and villages may get you some longer-than-average looks, but it will also get you warm hospitality, a more authentic perception of local life and some great cross-cultural experiences. Choosing a destination depends on your interests. For first-time travelers, it can be less isolating and still very rewarding to visit vacation destinations that are popular with Eastern Europeans but fairly untouched by native English-speakers. Places like the Great Masurian Lakes near the border between Poland and Lithuania, the coast of Croatia, the Giant Mountains of Slovakia, or the spa towns in many countries are good choices. UNESCO world heritage sites, such as Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, the medieval town of Torun in Poland, or the famous caves of Slovakia and Slovenia are also interesting destinations. It can be fun to plan atheme trip, focusing on historical sites and castles, wine regions, or tracing your roots. To Drive or Not to Drive When renting or buying a car for exploring Eastern Europe you have to consider all the hidden expenses. Many countries have toll roads that require you to have a sticker or else dish out a hefty fine on the spot. Sometimes extra insurance is required for cars originating from the West, and gas prices are very high. City-to-city travel by car usually isnt worth it for groups of less than four. On the other hand, driving can be beneficial if you have limited time and want to see as many places as possible, including all the quaint country villages and castles along the way. Getting Educated For many of us, even the biggest culture hounds, Eastern Europe has remained largely a mystery. Misinformation during communist times has been followed by a general lack of information since. Still, there are numerous books, including Eva Hoffmans Exit into History, that poignantly describe the culture, politics and history of the region in an entertaining style. There are also some very informative web sites on Eastern Europe. When researching the culture, dont exclude fiction, especially books written by communist dissidents. A much truer picture of the people, their dreams and their difficulties will emerge than if you limit yourself to non-fiction. Another good cultural education option is to see popular locally produced films, which you can often view with English subtitles at cinemas in the capital cities. Opportunities for work and study are continually expanding, although most economies are still in heavy transition. Those countries hoping for EU entry are adopting stricter visa regulations, so it pays to keep up-to-date at the various embassy web sites. In the major cities, there are many news sources that will keep you up-to-date, and internet cafes have changed the face of traveling altogether. From keeping in touch with family and friends, to knowing whats going on in town to meeting people, nothing beats the convenience of on-line access when abroad. The Dreaded Languages Unfortunately most of us didnt have a couple of years of college Ukrainian and Polish along with our French and Spanish. In Western Europe, most travelers can usually manage, but in off-the-beaten-path Poland the choice is to either to improve your gesturing skills or grow very attached to your phrasebook. If youre staying for more than a few days, its worth the effort to learn some of the language. Its not easy, but youll be rewarded with mountains of praise from the locals. Theres no need to take formal lessons unless you plan to work or go to school. Instead, just try offering an exchange of English for Czech, Hungarian, or whatever, and chances are you can work out a mutually beneficial arrangement. Speaking Russian in most countries wont win you a popularity contest. The few locals who remember their required Russian dont usually care to speak it and would rather try their hand at charades or even very broken English. Services Although its true the atmosphere has changed considerably in the last ten years, that change has stayed primarily in the capital centers. But even in the capitals, old habits die hard. Service varies widely between downright tippable to completely aggravating. However, many of us are spoiled. I, personally, cant recall ever getting better service anywhere in Europe (with the exception of London) than I get regularly in the States. The rule I try to stand by is, dont pay any more attention to the service than they pay to you. That way when its good youre pleasantly surprised and when its not you hardly notice. This attitude has taken a bit of training, but its been worth it in the long run. Meeting the Locals Visiting the local festivals is a great way to meet people in a milieu that is not necessarily language-dependent. Medieval reenactments, world championship sporting events, or traveling Romany festivals attract more locals than tourists. Its easy to find out whats going on by simply asking around, checking information centers, or reading the monthly cultural guides available in cities and on-line. Not only have many of the natives changed in the past ten years, the ex-pats have as well. The number of ex-pats living in the most popular Eastern European capitals has actually gone down since its height not long after the fall. Hanging out at one of the typical ex-pat bars for the true cross-culture seeker used to mean selling out and choosing cultural isolation, but now many of the foreigners living here are in intercultural marriages and actually speak the language or heartily try. Moreover, the locals have found the ex-pat hangouts a great place to meet young travelers and practice their English. Shunning the ex-pat scene today could mean missing out on where the jobs are or the chance to meet locals who are looking to get to know you. The Invitation More so than in Western Europe, social life takes place in peoples homes. Just a bit of preplanning is a sure-fire way to meet people even before you arrive. More than once Ive started correspondences with people on-line and had the time of my life when they invited me over once I arrived in town. Its important to be cautious, of course, but an invitation to a locals home opens otherwise tightly closed doors. Rustic weekend cottages and garden plots play a big role in local life in many countries and are a great way to really get to know people. What began as a practical and economical alternative to traveling remains a favorite escape from the city and a special treat for the honored guest. The East in general has retained a sense of formality and hierarchy that has become foreign to most of the West. At the same time, Eastern Europeans seem to expect the traveler to break the rules. The same faux pas that would probably get you a repressed sneer in France will be noticed with only a subdued snicker in Poland. Reading up on the local customs will remind you that taking off your shoes in someones home, bringing a small bouquet to the host, avoiding probing questions over dinner, sitting with strangers at a restaurant and other common courtesies are not typically shared by westerners. Perhaps undeservedly, Americans (and other native English speakers) are, for the most part, still adored in most of Eastern Europe. Of course, there has been quite a bit of demystification on both sides in the last ten years, but now even among the older generations apprehension has been replaced by full-fledged curiosity. That means the typical tourist misses out on great opportunities for a real cross-cultural experience while their eyes are glued to the cathedrals and their ears are pinned to the city guide. Many first-timers from the West are surprised how far the major cities have come compared to what theyve read or seen in the past. Other travelers notice how little has really changed in some of the more remote villages. One thing is certain, though; while prices are still low and locals still curious, its well worth it to take advantage of this part of the world and appreciate what is undoubtedly a fleeting moment in time. Selected Web Sites www.inyourpocket.com . www.centraleurope.com . www.cdc.gov/travel/easteurp.htm. goeasteurope.about.com/mbody.htm. www.culturekiosk.com . www.hotelscentral.com . www.adventureguide.com . www.concierge.com . Newsflashes General Complying with EU regulations means many countries are updating visa policies. All Canadian tourists will need a visa to travel to the Czech Republic in 2001. Long-term visas are already required for Americans, but the requirements for obtaining one may become less stringent. Slovakia Food and service is still regularly improving and many new options have opened in Bratislavas The Old Market Place. The new Montanas Grizzly Bar has already become a popular hang out. Czech Republic In Karlovy Vary the famed Nezvala theatre of Helmer and Fellner, complete with the original curtain by G. and E. Klimt and F. Matsch, has finally reopened after several years of reconstruction. The annual International Film Festival, which takes place in early July, is gaining more international recognition every year. The 1999 appearance of Woody Harrelson caused quite a stir, and Milos Forman is a regular favorite. Prague was chosen as one of the European cities of culture for 2000. Under the broad theme of cultural heritage the city has different activities planned throughout the year. The famed ex-pat meetingplace and bookstore The Globe has moved to a bigger and better location: Pstrossova 6 in Prague 1. Eastern Germany This year marked the third year for the annual Summerfest of Theatres in Berlin, for budget travelers its a great way to enjoy scenes of local productions for free. The Erotic Museum is an interesting alternative for travelers tired of the run-of-the-mill art and history museums. Poland Krakow, is another of the Year 2000 cities of culture, plans to extend the cultural events into a 5-year program to promote tourism. For nightlife seekers in Krakow the new In Vitro dance club is a popular hip-but-cheap option. Slovenia The international summer festival in Ljubljana is getting bigger and better every year. Not to be missed is the International Biennial of Graphic Arts at the Museum of Modern Art. The Julian Alps are a cheaper alternative to a mountain getaway than her Austrian and Italian neighbors, but expect higher prices than other Eastern European countries. MISHELLE SHEPARD is a freelance writer currently teaching English and French at Charles Univ. in Prague. She served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Czech Republic from 1994-96. You may contact her at mischelleshepard@hotmail.com . 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Gemtlichkeit Travel Newsletter Travel Newsletter Germany, Austria, Switzerland Home | About | Subscribe | CarRental | Rail | Air Tickets | ContactUs | Members | Search Wednesday, December 28, 2005 Gemütlichkeit Contact the editor Address changes Subscriptions Renewals Free sample issue Gift subscriptions Passwords Back Issue Archive Hotel Database The Travel Shopper Links to our rail, car rental, air and trip planning. Air Tickets Lowest consolidator fares Car Rental Guaranteed best rates European Rail Passes No service fee, no shipping charge Germany Deals Book weekend packages, bicycle tours, Christmas markets, and special interest trips Hotel Bookings Low rates, Large Selection. These hotel affiliates are two of the largest online hotel brokers in the world Insure Your Trip Compare prices of the top travel insurers Trip Planning: Knowledgeable and expert Vacation Rentals Top sources for vacation rental apartments, houses, villas, castles, and chalets Travel Stories Archive Paid subscribers log on here to access 10 years of back issues plusour database of some 800 hotels. Members Login Password Special Discounts for Travelers : Save on Books, Maps, Clothing, Luggage, Travel Accessories and much more! Click Here We're All About Travel to Germany, Austria & Switzerland This is the Internet home of Gemtlichkeit: The Travel Letter for Germany, Austria & Switzerland , published 10 times a year and the only English-language publication devoted solely to travel in these three countries. Our archives are packed with travel information, and access is free to subscribers . News Mobile Phone Strategies MOBILE PHONE SERVICE FOR EUROPE TRAVELERS In Europe, I use a mobile phone mainly to call ahead to book hotels, make the occasional restaurant reservation, and stay in touch with my office in Oregon, (though 99 percent of the latter can be done via e-mail). When it came time to buy a... Full Text >> View All News... THE GOMS OF SWITZERLAND At the headwaters of the Rhne river is a high Swiss valley of wooden farm buildings blackened by weather, breathtaking vistas, simple little hotels, and a time-honored... Read Full Story About Gemtlichket The Travel Letter for Germany, Austria, & Switzerland Now in its 17th year, Gemtlichkeit is the world's leading in-English source for travel info on Germany, Austria & Switzerland. Featuring: Best restaurants & hotels Country hideaways Backroads drives Regional cuisine Off-the-beaten-track travel finds Lowest car rental and rail prices 10% discount on travel gear, maps, & books Free access to our online archives Free access to online database of hotels Click here for a sample copy and more information. Questions? Telephone: 800.521.6722 Search: Free Newsletter Free, via email. The latest Germany, Austria and Switzerland travel dealsincluding air, hotel and rail. Enter your email address below. Click here tosee the latest issue of Europe Travel Alert. Planning Your Trip Savvy Gemtlichkeit subscribers and editors share their tips and advice on traveling in Europe. Ask the experts here Europe Travel Kiosk 30 Essential Destinations The 10 top cities or regions to visit in Germany, Austria & Switzerland, including hotel recommendations Introduction Germany Austria Switzerland Travel Info Travel stories, tips and advice from Gemut.com Car Rental Advice from Andy Mobile Phone Strategies More on DCC Hotel Altstadt Currency Update Holiday Gift Guide Europe Travel Alert - November 2005 Europe Travel Alert - October 2005 Prepaid Travel Cards Hiking in Switzerland Swiss Alps Hike Learn to Speak German North Sea Hotel Dynamic Currency Conversion Car Rental Rates Decline Kandersteg for Connoisseurs New Avis Contract Airline Baggage Update Airport Car Rental Taxes On the Fast Track Oktoberfest Tips Europe Travel Alert - September 15, 2005 Historic Train Ride Lufthansa Business Class Coming Attractions in Fall 2005 SuperTravel Links Austria Tourist Office Austrian Rail German Rail German Tourist Office Swiss Rail Switzerland Tourism Cities... Regions... Dozens More... Login
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Central America Travel Destination Information get a travel quote - my account - newsletter BROWSE DESTINATIONS » Asia » Australia » Caribbean » Central America » Belize » Club Med » Costa Rica » Cruise » Europe » Hawaii » Las Vegas » Mexico » South America » South Pacific » USA Caribbean Vacations Aruba Vacations Grand Cayman Vacations Jamaica Vacations Nassau Vacations Puerto Plata Vacations Punta Cana Vacations Europe Vacations Amsterdam Vacations Belgium - Brussels Vacations England - London Vacations France - Paris Vacations Italy - Rome Vacations Vienna Vacations Hawaii Vacations Maui Vacations Oahu Vacations Las Vegas Vacations Las Vegas Vacations Mexico Vacations Acapulco Vacations Cancun Vacations Cozumel Vacations Ixtapa & Zihautanejo Vacations Los Cabos Vacations Mazatlan Vacations Puerto Vallarta Vacations Riviera Maya Vacations Central America Travel Destination Information DESTINATIONS CENTRAL AMERICA Central America Destinations: Belize Lush tropical rainforests filled with colorful birds and exotic animals, mountains, plains and coastlines that offer up majestic views and fascination sites, Central America has a splendid and diverse geography. Central America is endowed with an extraordinary climate, varied animal and plant life and spectacular landscapes and beaches. Each region region represents a separate and unique eco-system. Central America satisfies travelers on a multitude of levels, from beach-lovers or nature seekers to soft adventurists in search of white water rafting, horse-back riding, canopy sky-trekking and hiking and the hearties explorers. Central America Hotels & Resorts Belize Yacht Club Resort Location: Belize It is comprised of solidly-constructed Spanish-style beachfront villas, surrounded by luxuriant tropical plants and with a spectacular view of the coral reef.Size: 40 suitesLast renovation: 2003Location: Located by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea in the ... More Information Captain Morgan's Retreat Location: Belize Ambergris Caye-Captain Morgan's Retreat is the ultimate in casual elegance. Accessible by water taxi, this private beachfront resort features colorful, thatched-roof casitas and villas, a beautiful freshwater pool, an array of watersports and Caribbean dining specialtie ... More Information Banana Beach Club Location: Belize LOCATION: Banana Beach is a beautiful new resort on the shores of the Caribbean in Belize, nestled on the best stretch of Beach on Ambergris Caye. Just far enough from town for real tranquility.ROOMS: 2- four bedroom, four bathroom Deluxe Ocean Front Suites- 8 per ... More Information View All Central America Hotels Central America Vacation Packages e-mail for general questions/comments: sales@tropicaltravel.net Office Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:30 A.M. - 5:30 P.M. Sat: 10:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. (PST) Browse these specialty travel services to find your perfect trip or vacation package. These are web sites of network partners who are affiliated with Tropical Travel - View All Network Partners Activities : Ecotourism - Group Tours - Safari Vacations - Skiing Vacations - Yachting Destinations : Africa Vacations - Caribbean Travel - Cruise Travel - Dominican Republic Travel - Europe Vacations - Global Travel - Hawaii Vacations - Jamaica Travel - Las Vegas Travel - Latin America - Mexico Travel - Tahiti Vacations Groups : Group Vacations - Senior Travel - Student Travel Specialties : Adventure Travel - Education Travel - Exotic Vacations - Exotic Villas - Honeymoon Vacations - Leisure Vacations - Luxury Travel - Specialty Travel - Tri-Cities Travel Asia Travel - Australia Travel - Caribbean Travel - Central America Travel - Club Med Travel - Costa Rica Travel - Cruise Travel - Europe Travel - Hawaii Travel - Las Vegas Travel - Mexico Travel - South America Travel - South Pacific Travel - USA Travel - Gadgets - eBay - eHarmony - Yoga Gear - Bras in D to JJ cup site map - -- authorization - jobs - about us - contact us - newsletter - network partners - privacy policy - archive - sitemap © 2004 TropicalTravel.net, LLC. All rights reserved. Website developed by Arestia , LLC. in cooperation with Abra International Group