MPnet Travel Thread

[ronin2172]

for me it was the trip i took to Kenya.

First off my mom and i spent 10 days in london, did the tourist thing , saw the Crown Jewels, HMS Belfast, Imperial War Museum, Madame Toussaud's, Churchill's war room, boat trip on the thames, changing of the guard at buckingham palace, harrods, hamley's?(the big ass toystore like FAO Schwartz, i don't know if i got the name right), Trafalgar square, piccadilly circus, Soho, Henry the VIII's castle, speaker's corner. amongst other things.

Then it was off for two weeks to Kenya, Went to Treetops (the place the queen was at when she found out she was queen) roamed over Nairobi, went to a lake absolutely covered with flamingos. visited a Masai village. Then went on safari to the Masai Mara game reserve. Saw lions, hyenas, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, crocs. Was very nearly killed by a pissed off elephant, woke up in the middle of the night to find a hippo under our hotel room window. Saw some of the most awesome scenery ever (seein animals roaming over the plains mount kilamanjaro off in the background was awe inspiring) Finished off the trip by spending a couple of days at mombassa on the indian ocean.

all in all an most excellent adventure for a boy of 12 woot

[EvanL]

All of the U.K. and Ireland back in the summer of 98. And met all my hundreds of relatives from across the pond.
My favorite was going to my Welsh homeland :D

[Ria]

Went to Portugal a few years ago. I'm dying to go back :D

[He219]

Around the world in 30 days, 1993. Athens to Singapore by boat.

p-)

[SwissGrenadier]

quebec 1990
we drove from somerville,mass. to a camping place in quebec and stayed for about a week. :)
i can't wait to go to ottawa vancouver and toronto in july :D

[Abolith]

Boot.... :D

[1Cie GevGn]

Trip with some friends to Eben-Emael, the bigest fortress ever build that was taken by German Paratroops in the beginning of the campaign in Belgium 1940. Very nice tour, miles and miles of tunnels, HUGE turrets with 2 120mm guns in them, you could see the effect of the new hollow-charge the German's used, metal doors bent like they were paper, bulletholes, really made you wonder.

http://www.fort-eben-emael.be/English/Frame1_English/photo-gallery.htm

Some pics

[TRACER_BULLET]

2 weeks in Maui was lots of fun...
But then so was a 3 week trip around europe
(England, France, Austria, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Belgum & Liechtenstien)

:D

[molly747]

Italy, for 2 weeks. I went with a bunch of friends and we just ambled across the countryside. Second would be Paris. The most romantic city ever. Guys, take your girl to Paris and it's a done deal. ;)
But my dream is to trace my roots back to Sweden, Scotland, and France--see where I came from

[ronin2172]

Went to Portugal a few years ago. I'm dying to go back :D
what did u do there visit family? what about u he219, any interesting stories/experiences from your trip? hell everybody share!lol

[mattnwnc03]

my trip to gatorland zoo !!! yeeeeeeehaaaaaaaawwwwww!!!!!!!!!!!!! rofl

[gaz]

Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, the Czech Republic and back to Austria by train over ten days last December.

I'd do it again tomorrow if I could.

[Jack Mehoff]

Downtown Salt Lake City

[molly747]

Downtown Salt Lake City

So clean... and the locals are so friendly? "Hey... where are the liquor stores, damnit?!"

[Ria]

Went to Portugal a few years ago. I'm dying to go back :D
what did u do there visit family? what about u he219, any interesting stories/experiences from your trip? hell everybody share!lol

Oh yeah, definitely have a lot of family over there, my mom has tons of cousins :lol: It was funny because I remember my mom coming up to me a lot with someone new every time, saying, "Maria, this is my cousin!", or "This is your 3rd cousin" or SOMEthing to do with cousins :P It was so great seeing her happy like that. She hadn't been to Portugal in about 40 years, it was very emotional for her.

It's so amazingly beautiful there. We mostly stayed in Salir do Porto, in my grandparent's house and where my mom was born. The ocean was down the street...cafés on every corner...whitewashed houses with terracotta roofs...you could leave your doors and windows open all day, not having to worry about thieves, not in this neighborhood anyway. There were screens on the windows, and that beaded drapery in the doorway so the bugs couldn't get in. We must not have been there when they were bothersome, because I don't remember having any bug problems at all. And since we were by the sea, it was never hot, just always cool and refreshing, sometimes quite chilly. Right down the street from the house, there was a small community club, where there's a bar, TVs (I watched a bullfight one night, it's very popular), different arcade games, and of course fooseball and pool tables. Also, there's a dance floor, and a small stage where local bands play on certain nights. A very famous singer came there one night, Tony Carreira, but unfortunately we had left already :( It's probably been very updated since we went, I remember they had been doing construction when we were there. There is a neat area very closeby, called Nazaré. They had shops everywhere, selling beautiful pottery. There was a really cool thing there, I can't remember what they're called, but it takes you up the side of a mountain. You could see the whole town, and we went in late afternoon, so the sun was shining but there was a sense of darkness about it..hard to explain. The beach was stunning, the water was very clean and clear, but SO cold. Almost impossibly cold (that's the Atlantic for you...).

I could write a whole book describing my experience! I appreciate Portugal so much, because it has a rustic feel to it, not being as technologically advanced as many other countries, and so it's somewhat like entering a very peaceful world with so much history everywhere you look. There are several busy places though, don't get me wrong. Oh and the fishing boats are so cool! They are always brightly colored. Portugal is famous for its fishing. All the restaurants we visited were divine. If you ever see a Portuguese shop, ask for pastéis de natas. You will LOVE them if you like custard. The pastries are delicious, and so rich. We brought back some food, for friends and family back here. They loved that ;)
The people are friendly, the food is wonderful, the beaches are absolutely stunning, the landscapes are breath-taking...in the north it's more mountainous, and I remember watching the scenery go by...huge mountains, covered with forests and vineyards. It was just...wow. Portugal is known for its port wine as well ;)

I pretty much had only one bad experience there. You must watch out for gypsies...they are evil. Me, my mom and my dad were in the car, waiting for my aunt and uncle and cousins to come back from the local church (they are strict Catholics). While we were waiting, this old woman comes up to my mom's side of the car with a younger woman behind her, probably her daughter. I forget exactly what happened, but I think the woman wanted to tell us our fortune, something stupid like that, but she decorated her real meaning with compliments and said she would do so-and-so for a certain amount of money (not much). She talked to my mom about this, looked at her palm even, telling her fortune and what my mom can expect from the future. Well, when it was done, she said she wanted more money (my mom's translating all this for us, btw). My mom was like "Umm no...you must be mistaken, you only asked for this amount of money"....my dad refused to give her more and she got super pissed. She started cursing us and giving us bad omens, told us we better watch out on our flight back home. It freaked me out pretty badly :| We learned our lesson...

(no flaming please :) ) For religious people, mostly Catholics, you will want to visit Fatima. There is a huge place there dedicated to Lady Fatima, a version of Mary that appeared to three children 6 times. "Coming at a time when civilization was torn assunder by war and bloody violence, She promised that Heaven would grant peace to all the world if Her requests for prayer, reparation and consecration were heard and obeyed."
http://www.fatima.org/story1.html more here.
Now, I'm not a very religious person, but being there, it was one of the most touching moments of my life. I can't describe the feeling that came over me. Very emotional, if you are a religious person, or appreciate things like this, etc, I recommend it highly. I recommend it even for nonreligious people. It's an interesting experience, and if you don't get anything out of it, that's fine, but if you do, you will feel honored to have experienced it. It's a beautiful place, I will never forget it.

wow...I feel like I've been blabbing for forever, I'll stop now. I hope you enjoyed my mini stories :) It's an unforgettable place, really. I'm not sure when we'll be able to go back, soon hopefully. You should definitely try to go someday! :)

[Jack Mehoff]

Downtown Salt Lake City

So clean... and the locals are so friendly? "Hey... where are the liquor stores, damnit?!"


Yeah, Utahns are very friendly because they are a bunch of Mormon aka living saints. :D

[Fintin]

they all sucked

[Jack Mehoff]

be nice or i'll kick your ass!

[Fintin]

be nice or i'll kick your ass!

promise?

[Felix]

Hey y'all,

I'm going to Israel soon, to see my new pretty little Israeli girlfreind.....but on another note, what should I visit? what museums, sites and things like that of a military nature are worth the visit? I heard about that Tank Museum in Tablun.....is it nice?

-Felix

[Moledet]

The tank museum is in Latrun.

You can visit the air force museum in Hatzerim (near be'er sheva), the yad vashem holocaust museum, the western wall (and to David's tower), dead sea (go to Mineral beach if you want to swim in the mud), Eilat (go snorkling in the corals nature reserve or in Migdalor beach near the boarder and if you want to party go to Dekel beach, the sins city of ESC is there), you can go rafting in the golan, go to Rosh Hanikra in the north there's a nice cave there and also a nice beach, go to Haifa to the budhist gardens, go to Dor beach near Moshav Dor, it's a very nice beach or to Sdot yam which is also a very nice beach.

There are many more sites but it depends on what you would like to do.

[Mark_Aspen]

How long are you coming for and where will you be staying? How good a Christian are you, if you are? Here are what I think are the must-sees, based on your question, and that you're here on this board. Of course get some travel books, but check out this site: http://www.gemsinisrael.com/ Of course there are other places like the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the Western Wall, Nazareth, Tiberius and Sfat. I'd also recommend Ein Gedi and/or Nahal Arugot on the Dead Sea, about an hour or 90 minutes from Jerusalem.

Armoured Corps Museum at Latrun.
http://www.arcm-latrun.org.il/english/visit_e.html

Isreal Air Force Museum, Hatzerim AFB.
http://www.aeroflight.co.uk/mus/israel/iafmus.htm

Yad Vashem
http://www.yad-vashem.org.il/visiting/index_visiting.html

Haganah Museum
http://www.frommers.com/destinations/moreattract.cfm?a_id=23849

Etzel Museum (Irgun)
http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-2799460-etzel_museum_1947_1948_beit_gidi_tel_aviv-i

Clandestine Immigration and Naval Museum
http://www.gemsinisrael.com/e_article000001117.htm

Museum at Kibbutz Yad Mordechai (Theor site isn't in Eng.)
http://www.travelnet.co.il/israel/TelAviv/tel10-YAD_MORDECHAI.htm

Kibbutz Lohamei Hagetaot (Ghetto Fighters Kibbutz)
http://english.gfh.org.il/kibutz_lohamei_hagetaot.htm

[UoUo]

where your girl living?

[SeanAshi]

I had to cancel my trip to Israel :cantbeli:
what should I visit?Hebron. Do they allow non muslims on Temple Mount or is it still off limits?

[FallenAngel]

Go see the wall :)

[UoUo]

I had to cancel my trip to Israel :cantbeli:
what should I visit?Hebron. Do they allow non muslims on Temple Mount or is it still off limits?


Why did you cancel iy?

And i think they allowed to non muslims to visit the mount temple...

[UoUo]

Go see the wall :)

You mean the west wall? or you mean the "wall" fence?

[SeanAshi]

Medical reasons, I've been having stomach and intestinal problems which causes me great pain I need to get taken care of soon.

[Hullebullen]

Yad Vashem was very powerful and emotional. Really a must-see. Dead sea and Massada is also nice. Eilat didn't really impress me. If only i had known about the Tank museum when I was there...

[SeanAshi]

I really wanted to see Massada

[Moledet]

Yad Vashem was very powerful and emotional. Really a must-see. Dead sea and Massada is also nice. Eilat didn't really impress me. If only i had known about the Tank museum when I was there...
If you don't go snorkling/diving (ofcourse you need to snorkel in a good place and not near the hotels zone but closer to the boarder) than Eilat is nothing special.

[American Patriot]

Yad Mordechai is a good place to start

[FallenAngel]

Go see the wall :)

You mean the west wall? or you mean the "wall" fence?

I meant the west wall....but come to think of it....the new security wall might be cool to see too.

[UoUo]

yes the security fence could be nice to see...hmmm anyway latrun is great place.

[Felix]

Thanks for all the helpful info guys....my girl lives in Tel Aviv. I figure i'll go see her, go to a beach, get some action, then go see the cooler sights, like Latrun, Jerusalem, the Holocoast museum, some religious sights, stuff like that....keep the suggestions rolling guys

[gilgoul]

OK, so as a non Israeli who became one, witth a lot of visits in between, and if you are particulary interested in visiting military/history sites, I Should advice you a few places.
First, I don`t know how long you are staying in the country, but if it is for 7/10 days, then you should definitely see: Jerusalem and it`s old city/tel aviv for the night life/the northern part (galil) and the Golan, with a stop in Ako st jean d`acre), rosh anikra, and a drive along the border to the Golan through Metulla (If you can rent a car), from then going up to the Hermon anf continuing to the cebtral Golan,turning at Katserin to the direction of Tiberias and from then hitting the way to wherever you see fit.
About interresting military sites and museums, you have Latrun tank museum, based next to the abbaye of the same name (they make a pretty decent wine and good olive oil), THE AIR FORCE MUSEUM IN bEER sHEVA, THE nAVAL MUSEUM IN hAIFA, AND FOR THE ACTUAL SITES, just take a stroll along the cities, golan, kibutz ruhama and the douth, they`ll give you a prtty decent idea of the place, without forgetting Yad Vashem, in rememerrance of the

[Zenchan]

Felix, you see, there is plenty, but not enough time available.

Now - Latrun is a must (as is Jerushalayim and Yad Va shem), but before you try to go to Hatzerim (a bit out of the way south, though if you like planes, its a must) and before you try to figure out what is it all about in the Haganah, Etzel Museums usw. (as most of the captions are in Hebrew) go to the future IDF Museum collection in Jaffa (its a bit hidden, but a gem! With a incredible collection of guns, vehicles and memorabilia from 1918 to 2004 giving you an insight, how the state was founded, how the army came into being and so on.

Then head north! Tel Aviv is nice, but very cosmopolitan, US-style even in places. See Haifa and Akko than take the bus or car and drive to Tiberias and the Kinnereth lake. You' ll see parts of Galilee on that way (only a two hour drive!) and get more f a feel for the beauty of that country. FromTiberias go north with the car, to an and the sources of the Jordan (it will be hot, and there a great places there to cool off) and then drive up on the Golan heights towards Kuneitra. You will suddenly start to undestand, what the territorial questiion is all about in Israel,you'll be able to look into Hezbollah-land in South Lebanon ad perhaps even hear the artillery firing. Have your girlfriend take you up to Oz 77 on the Heights and tell you the story how one tank battalion was decimated there stopping a divisonal attack by the Syrian army in October 73. et yourself the book "The heights of courage", written by the man, who commanded that unit. Then turn south and drive through those heights , enjoy the birdview on the lake kinnereth (we are into the romantic part now) and head back to Tiberias for a Fish dinner on the lakefront ...

Sounds like I was a tourguide? Not quite, but close enough. In the last years I organized a number of trips for readers of my magazine here in Germany to Israel. They all asked for more and came back for second and third helpings. Some of them have become adent spporters of Israel, because of what they learned there. Next october we are going again, for a two week round trip ... Enjoy your time ove there, jus don't waste it sunbathing in the beach of T.A.

[Felix]

Thanks for all the imput guys, I really appreciate it.

The year before I joined the Marine Corps, my unit got to go to Israel for exercises in the Negev. Unfortunately, I missed out.

But anyway, thanks for the ideas.

[MEGR]

Wish I could go. I don't care much aboot seeing IDF stuff, but rather the place where Jesus was buried, the wall, and some other holy places.

[AirZone]

Uhh...after the army im going to do "hotze" (cross) Israel
its a trip for about 3-4 months from the top of the hermon to eilat by foot wich the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel made I talked with people who said they never knew we had such places in Israel and its even better than visiting other countries because theres amazing stuff...better than flying to india :D

[ShotOver]

The dead sea is an amazing place, i was there when i went to Jordan. Very cool to float on the water.

[Kaplanr]

than Eilat is nothing special.

Ain't that the truth. Israel's sewer; all the s**t flows down.

[Moledet]

than Eilat is nothing special.

Ain't that the truth. Israel's sewer; all the s**t flows down.
Eilat's beach is the Red sea, not the med. sea.

[jason82]

The dead sea is an amazing place, i was there when i went to Jordan. Very cool to float on the water.

Its even crazier at night. It's like a space walk.

Hey felix, it seems everyone already covered the major stuff, but maybe i can help with some specific spots and such...

There are three natural craters in israel that are the only ones of their kind in the world (i think). Machtesh ramon is the biggest (and incredible to hike through), but it is so large, you can't see from one end to the other at points. Machtesh hagadol is smaller, but has a much more dramatic 'crater' look to it, as if a massive meteor plowed into the desert (although it is actually caused by water erosion). Consult any tour book for these spots, they are truly otherwordly.

And if you want to snorkel, go to sinai, the red sea by eilat is horribly polluted and most of the natural coral and sea-life is dead or dying.

As for nightlife, tel aviv is definetly the city to go to, follow the scantily clad beach goers once the sun goes down. :P

[Javehn]

Wish I could go. I don't care much aboot seeing IDF stuff, but rather the place where Jesus was buried, the wall, and some other holy places.

Then you should come visit me - mount precipous (I think this is how it's called :oops: ) is right out of my window . I live in Nazareth .

The Vifleem is a bit more problematic (sence it's on Palestinian side) , but I think it's pretty ok for foreigners . Just bring a lot of patience with you , and some interceptor vest (in any case) . I myself visited the nativity chearch 7 years ago , when the Palies still didn't got all crazy . Very beautifull place .

[israeli dude]

Hey y'all,

I'm going to Israel soon, to see my new pretty little Israeli girlfreind.....but on another note, what should I visit? what museums, sites and things like that of a military nature are worth the visit? I heard about that Tank Museum in Tablun.....is it nice?

-Felix

soo you are the little f***** who's taking our woman :D ( :fork: )

i say go to the desert.its saunds funny but its one of the most pretty places in israel.

[Felix]

Thanks for the ideas guys. and yes, i'm the little **** taking your women. Nothing like a chick with an uzi.

[Skaman]

I would appreciate any information from those living in Europe or those that have traveled through Europe as I will be backpacking through Germany, Austria, Hungary and on to Croatia this summer.

Probable stops include Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Budapest, then on to Split


Any advice regarding:

Tourist Traps
Sights to See
Places to Go
Things to Do
What to Avoid
How to Stay Safe
Transportation
Local customs/rules/requirements

Thanks,

Skaman

[Jobu]

Skip those ugly, boring places and travel around the Med instead.

[EvanL]

make sure to pay hommage to your commie roots!
p-)

[Skaman]

Skip those ugly, boring places and travel around the Med instead.

where and what

[Jobu]

Skip those ugly, boring places and travel around the Med instead.

where and what

Mallorca is beautiful and fun
Barcelona is fun and has great bars near the old Olympic village
Portofino is very scenic and a nice place to spend a day or two just chilling out
Just about any Italian coastal city like Anzio or even Viareggio has great food and women
The Greek Islands are perhaps the best vacation spot on Earth. Bars, beaches, women, food, everything.

[toki]

Skip those ugly, boring places and travel around the Med instead.

where and what

Mallorca is beautiful and fun
Barcelona is fun and has great bars near the old Olympic village
Portofino is very scenic and a nice place to spend a day or two just chilling out
Just about any Italian coastal city like Anzio or even Viareggio has great food and women
The Greek Islands are perhaps the best vacation spot on Earth. Bars, beaches, women, food, everything.

Mallorca is fun... If someone from canada visits europe he maybe doesn't want to see drunken northern european tourists having their own holidays.
I would be ashamed if he's going back to canada and thinks "ahh that's how germans are" :roll: rofl For real. Backpacking from germany- netherlands-france-spain- to Portugal is a good route. And was quite popular for backpackers from your side of the atlantic. I met many. Skaman (you like that kinda music?) start in Berlin. Great City!!!

But it really depends what u wanna see. Mediteranian flair or more "central" european culture. To do everything is almost impossible.

EDIT: Oops got a little lost. So your plans are already fixed. Anyway If you're in germany don't forget berlin!!! Guess frankfurt is your choice because of the airport!?!

[Freibier]

In Budapest be shure to visite "Fekete Lyuk" - it's a old underground cinema/air shelter which is now a concert hall for alternative music (punk/hc/ska) - way cool
In munich see the "Deutsches Museum", "Bavaria Film Studios" for the "Das Boot" sub and Kunstpark Ost. But as toki said, visit Berlin - it's so worth it and has probably the best nightlife in ze whole world woot (Visit the MFF - Ministerium für Feierei: there's usually a 24/7 techno/trance/goa party with awesome DJs - if you go there on Thursday you can partzy till tuesday nonstop :lol: )

[toki]

And for your basic questions. Check google or any bookstore about backpacker guides for europe. There must be milions. I know we had one when we took that interrail ticket from germany to portugal. It's useful. And the "stay safe rules" are everywhere kinda the same. Take care of your wallet!!! I live here and my wallet/jacket whatever is getting stolen on a regular basis when i hit the bars. :lol: But that must be the same as f.e. in canada, right?

[RS_Leo1A5]

Some information about Germany:
WikiTravel (http://wikitravel.org/en/Germany)
Official Stuff (http://www.germany-info.org/relaunch/index.html)

[Skaman]

Yah, I would love to see a European Ska show! I have never seen a 2nd wave performance. That’s what you get for living in Canada I guess. Frankfurt was not a planned destination, but because my flight ends up here, I figured I might make the best of the city, and I am curious of what to do and how to stay safe. I faired London just fine, so I’m not overly worried. I heard Munich is great, and I want to check out the Eagles nest. Additionally, I would love to see some smaller rural German towns, though I hear they are few and far between. Vienna is a must as I have heard spectacular things of the music, food, and landscape. In actuality, I know few have been to Budapest, yet I wanted to break the norm and get away from the whole standard “Western-European-Trip through France, Holland, Belgium etc. Finally, Croatia is the focal point with great beaches, food, and friendly and warm people (or so I have heard). I don’t plan on venturing into the interior as I don’t want to brave the mines on a scenic hike.

I would appreciate any advice regarding these destinations, or, places to go and see along this route

[gaz]

Personally I wasn't overly impressed with Vienna but then again I was a bit jaded after having travelled through Budapest, Bratislava, Krakow and Prague. After seeing some beautiful cities Vienna just seemed a bit too metropolitan to me, don't get me wrong, there's still some great stuff to see but it left me cold.

Budapest is definitely worth your time, I've briefly mentioned it before here so I'll just copy what I said before -

Go to Budapest and stay in the Citadel on Gellert hill. It's a fortress (Now a hotel) that was built by the Hapsburgs in the Eighteen Hundreds and was used during the second world war. As you walk around it the walls are marked with bullet and shell holes. You're on a huge hill that overlooks both parts of the city (Buda and Pest) and are only a thirty second walk from the LIberation Monument, a huge metal sculpture of a woman holding an olive branch that was built in 1947 to celebrate freedom from the Nazis.

[Brozozo]

Get a copy of Fromers, they're awesome. The net is overflowing with what your looking for, I honestly can't even tell you were to start looking, there is so much.

As Joby said, the Med is breathtaking!

Spain and Italy are must sees, tons of great places.
Scotland and France are great, especially southern France along the Med. Holland (amsterdam and Rotterdam) is good.
Belgium (Antwerp) is worth seeing.
Denmark's Copenhagen is fun.
Lots of good places in Germany.
Prague is beautiful.
Don't skip Austria, beautiful country.

[drGreen]

If you are planning to visit some battlegrounds I can recommend a few museums in the netherlands/belgium/luxembourg;

La Gleize: Kampfgruppe Peiper former HQ during Wacht am Rhein and now a great museum, even got a real king tiger over there who was knocked out during the numerous battles in the region.
www.december44.com
http://www.ardennentop.be/appartement_museum.jpg
http://www.december44.com/images/scan/char-haut.jpg

Basogne:Great place, visit the surrounding forrests (winter is best) for a real "feeling" of what happened. Best museum to visit is the historical center
http://www.bastognehistoricalcenter.be/currently under construction but there's enough info of it on other sites, just google it up.
http://www.drttours.co.uk/Pages/Sections/Bulge%20gallery.html
http://www.battleguide.net/images/bastogne/bast8.jpg
http://www.sportpark-quickborn.de/xyx_baschi/Mopedride2002/images/PICT0033.JPG
http://www.drttours.co.uk/Images/Bulge/Bastogne%201.jpg
http://www.mike-reed.com/images/Travel%20Journal/Belgium/004%20-%20Battle%20of%20the%20Bulge%20Memorial%20-%20Bastogne,%20Belgium.JPG
http://www.thecomputerstore.be/BastogneMemorial1.jpg

Oosterbeek:Visit the airbornemuseum, former hq of Mödel and improvised hq/field hospital/communcations centre of 1stAirborne
www.airbornemuseum.org


there are tons hove possibileties just google 'm up, EUROPE ROCKS!! woot

[drGreen]

:cantbeli:

ouch... germany, croatia, hungary, austria iiiiiim so stupid!!! :cantbeli: :cantbeli:

however... EUROPE STILL ROCKS!!! woot

[EvanL]

i would love to go to Greece one day.
Theres only two things in this world i would kill someone for. And thats a flat screen plasma TV, and a trip to Greece

[Skaman]

Has anyone travelled to Munich? Split? Western Croatia? Thanks for all your advice thus far guys, im stokked.

[He219]

Never been in Grease? It's a bit dirty ...
J/k ;)

San Torini is my favorite place in the Spouthern Cyclades Islands. Well worth the distance to get there!


Skip those ugly, boring places and travel around the Med instead.
Ahh, Split/Croatia; but I thought the Dalmatian Coast was part of the Med ...
:P

Split, Dubrovnik & Korcula, defiately places to experience and very few people think of going there. Birthplace of Marco Polo (Korcula).
Best bang for the buck in the Med.

[Haiw]

Has anyone travelled to Munich? Split? Western Croatia? Thanks for all your advice thus far guys, im stokked.
I've been in Munich, it was pretty cool. Personally I liked Stuttgart more, but I'm biased because my parents lived there. ;)

[frogfoot]

I would appreciate any information from those living in Europe or those that have traveled through Europe as I will be backpacking through Germany, Austria, Hungary and on to Croatia this summer.

Probable stops include Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Budapest, then on to Split


Any advice regarding:

Tourist Traps
Sights to See
Places to Go
Things to Do
What to Avoid
How to Stay Safe
Transportation
Local customs/rules/requirements

Thanks,

Skaman
Info from Hungary:www.hungary.com(english)
forget Budapest and Balaton!
If you like music,don't miss Sziget Fesztivál 2005(Island Festival 2005)
important:watch your bag,wallet and passport(<-very imporant).Keep off Taxis and downtown restaurants in Budapest.Don't eat fast food place in streets/railway stations,etc.(not so hygenic),search a general mart(Spar,CBA...)for food or last chance a McDonald's.Buy a hungarian/english tourists' dictionary!

[Gallewicz]

If you`re going to Cyprus, visit Ayia Napa and Cape Grecco about 13 km from Ayia Napa, to the east.
Good resturant: Orange Grove near Sandy Bay (or however it`s called).

Cape Grecco:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v116/nikodemus90/b7e8092d.jpg

Cirka one kilometre from Cape Grecco:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v116/nikodemus90/de9e44ea.jpg

[Hellfish]

Backpacking is always something I've wanted to do, but never have been able to do (lack of money when I was in college, now lack of time since I'm a worker bee). Can someone indulge me with some answers?

How much money do you think it would reasonably cost to do a tour of Portugal, Spain, Southern France and Switzerland? If I was going to do it, I'd probably expect to do it over the course of a month. What is the typical charge per day for a hostel these days?

What the hell should I pack? I can make do on two pairs of pants, 10 pairs of boxers, maybe 5 shirts and a dozen pairs of socks for a month, methinks, but what else should I plan on bringing, besides toiletries?

What else should I know?

[EsoognomEhT]

How much money do you think it would reasonably cost to do a tour of Portugal, Spain, Southern France and Switzerland? If I was going to do it, I'd probably expect to do it over the course of a month. What is the typical charge per day for a hostel these days?


For Portugal/Spain not that much, however Southern France and in particular Switzerland will cost you quite a bit..

As for things to take, phrasebooks, people in Europe are much more accomodating to you if you make an effort. And gont wear brash clothes, talk in a stupidly loud voice, point a lot and ask "WHAAAAAATS THAAAAT?" at everything :)

btw your main cost might be transport between those places, from France to Switzerland is quite a long way..

[Gallewicz]

A good friend told me a story about what his american father did when he was in France.
You know, he didn`t know a word in french and he needed to get to a special place. And of course, no one knew english and if they did, they didn`t want to show it. So...he went around saying "You`re ugly and fat" to every person and if they reacted, he would say "Good! Now can you please tell me how to get to this place *points at map*".

:D

[bloddyaxe]

I recommend going to Svalbard or Jan Mayen, Crete might be nice too though...

[toki]

i would love to go to Greece one day.
Theres only two things in this world i would kill someone for. And thats a flat screen plasma TV, and a trip to Greece

We had our final school trip to greece (roundtrip: Athens - delphi - tolon - olympia - Athens) (order?) . :P It was very nice (drinking till 7 in the morning then busrides to the sights) but we slept in dirty ****holes the whole trip. After ten days in greece i came to the conclusion there are only ****holes. But i heard the olympics had a big impact on the infrastructure. Athens was a stinking hole before.

[toki]

Has anyone travelled to Munich? Split? Western Croatia? Thanks for all your advice thus far guys, im stokked.

Munich (30x) my aunt lives in austria 1 hour from munich. Check out Englischer Garten (Park), Deutsches Museum... oh someone mentioned these before. My parents were in Croatia last summer. I just heard its an very awesome and friendly place. have fun there

[Eat a bullet]

And gont wear brash clothes, talk in a stupidly loud voice, point a lot and ask "WHAAAAAATS THAAAAT?" at everything :)
Are you speaking from experience?

[striker]

[i]Go to Budapest and stay in the Citadel on Gellert hill. It's a fortress (Now a hotel) that was built by the Hapsburgs in the Eighteen Hundreds and was used during the second world war. As you walk around it the walls are marked with bullet and shell holes. You're on a huge hill that overlooks both parts of the city (Buda and Pest) and are only a thirty second walk from the LIberation Monument, a huge metal sculpture of a woman holding an olive branch that was built in 1947 to celebrate freedom from the Nazis.

A little anecdote to add here
My hungarian translators/watchdogs during communist times always pointed out the fact that the 2 soviet soldier statues guarding the Goddess of Victory, had their SMG's (ppSh) pointed directly at the Hungarian House of Parliament across the river. A little reminder fom their big brother to behave.

[Elmo]

Nuremberg -a beautiful medieval castle and the Nazi party rally grounds.

[Ichhabe]

Going to Split and travel down the Dalmatian coastline to Dubrovnik is just great. I was there in 95 and the people was friendly and easy to get in touch with. I definatly want to go back and revisit. The scenery is also jawdropping fantastic.

[Jobu]

i would love to go to Greece one day.
Theres only two things in this world i would kill someone for. And thats a flat screen plasma TV, and a trip to Greece

We had our final school trip to greece (roundtrip: Athens - delphi - tolon - olympia - Athens) (order?) . :P It was very nice (drinking till 7 in the morning then busrides to the sights) but we slept in dirty ****holes the whole trip. After ten days in greece i came to the conclusion there are only ****holes. But i heard the olympics had a big impact on the infrastructure. Athens was a stinking hole before.

If you ever go to Greece on your own, forget Athens. You go to Greece for the islands.

Athens is a congested, smoggy, craphole.

[Dado]

Enjoy your stay in Croatia.

Southern coastline:
http://www.croatiayachtcharter.com/pics/dalmatia.jpg


Heres the city of Split:
http://www.eurotravelling.net/croatia/split/images/frontpage_split_by_night.jpg
http://www.earth-photography.com/photos/Countries/Croatia/Croatia_Split_Harbor.jpg

http://www.earth-photography.com/photos/Countries/Croatia/Croatia_Split_Harbor2.jpg
http://www.geocities.com/richard_cerny/split-peristyle2x.jpg
http://chumley.net/ipw-web/gallery/albums/split/split25.sized.jpg

Brac, lots of windsurfers at this beach in summer:
http://www.croatiaboats.com/en2/images/brac.jpg

Makarska riviera, one hell of a view when your in the sea swiming to look at the city and the hill above it(i personaly couldnt stop stearing...):
http://www.pointernet.pds.hu/touristinfo/free_wallpapers/makarska-croatia-1.jpg

Dubrovnik:
http://www.pointernet.pds.hu/touristinfo/free_wallpapers/dubrovnik-croatia-2.jpg
http://www.brucegcollier.com/images/images_croatia/030522c6902_10.JPG

Hvar:
http://www.pointernet.pds.hu/touristinfo/free_wallpapers/hvar-croatia.jpg
http://press.croatia.hr/datoteke/1442.jpg

Korcula:
http://www.brucegcollier.com/images/images_croatia/030527s4506_36.JPG

Novalja, Pag:
http://www.novalja.com/papaya/photoalbum/priv013.jpg
http://www.novalja.com/papaya/photoalbum/001.jpg
http://www.novalja.com/papaya/photoalbum/040.jpg

[Brozozo]

Beautiful! I always had the impression that Croatia was an ugly place!

[Dado]

Beautiful! I always had the impression that Croatia was an ugly place!

Hey watch it! Don´t make me open up "girls of Croatia" thread.... ;)

[achilles]

i would love to go to Greece one day.
Theres only two things in this world i would kill someone for. And thats a flat screen plasma TV, and a trip to Greece

I would go for the second choice woot

No need to kill anyone mate...we are here...just pay us a visit and i ll give you all the tips for all the good things ;)

[achilles]

Never been in Grease? It's a bit dirty ...
J/k ;)

San Torini is my favorite place in the Spouthern Cyclades Islands. Well worth the distance to get there!


It seems that you are one volcanic kind of guy... ;)


Dirty? Those are just rumours that you are spreading even more p-)

Unless you are talking about Athens of course.

[Shadow]

If you visit Germany the Rhine is a must!
http://www.castlesoftheworld.net/castles/Europe/Central_Europe/Germany/RHINE/rhine%2011.jpg
Millions of japanese people can't be wrong! p-)

Rhineland-Palatinate + The frech Elsass is the place if you like this oldskool style.

[Jobu]

Millions of japanese people can't be wrong!

So that whole Shinto thing was correct and the Emperor really was a god?

Damn.

[Ria]

Ska, have a safe and fun trip! :) It's too bad that you're not going into Portugal, I could have helped you a little with that. I have no idea where to go in Germany, Austria, Hungary and Croatia though, sorry about that.

[Skaman]

Thanks for all your help so far guys, it helps more than you know!

Well, this will be the travel routine by the looks of it…

Day 1-4 Munich Germany

Day 4-7 Salzburg Austria

Day 7-10 Split Croatia

Day 10-13 Dubrovnik Croatia

Day 14-18 Budapest Hungary

Day 19-20 Back to Munich for a flight to Canada

I picked up some books, and have lots of ideas, suggestions, recommendations of what to do, yet I am open to more advice!

[Skaman]

Ska, have a safe and fun trip! :) It's too bad that you're not going into Portugal, I could have helped you a little with that. I have no idea where to go in Germany, Austria, Hungary and Croatia though, sorry about that.

Thanks, much appreciated. ;)

Portugal will have to sit on the backburner, its Zanzibar next year woot

[achilles]

Thanks for all your help so far guys, it helps more than you know!

Well, this will be the travel routine by the looks of it…

Day 1-4 Munich Germany

Day 4-7 Salzburg Austria

Day 7-10 Split Croatia

Day 10-13 Dubrovnik Croatia

Day 14-18 Budapest Hungary

Day 19-20 Back to Munich for a flight to Canada

I picked up some books, and have lots of ideas, suggestions, recommendations of what to do, yet I am open to more advice!

I see no 'Greece' in your agenda and i am deeply dissappointed :(

This is one poor travel-plan :|

[toki]

[quote=Skaman]Thanks for all your help so far guys, it helps more than you know!

Well, this will be the travel routine by the looks of it…

Day 1-4 Munich Germany

Day 4-7 Salzburg Austria

Day 7-10 Split Croatia

Day 10-13 Dubrovnik Croatia

Day 14-18 Budapest Hungary

Day 19-20 Back to Munich for a flight to Canada

I picked up some books, and have lots of ideas, suggestions, recommendations of what to do, yet I am open to more advice!

I think it's a good route and not that typical. But 3 days in Salzburg... hmm not that big town. Just try to get to the countryside around. The alps ares o beautyful. My mom is austrian. And being in the alps gives me a warm, cosy childhood feeling. From munich to salzburg u could check out Kufstein. A small town with a picturesque fortress. I think u also wanted the smaller rural places, or? Anyway my relatives are from that area south of munich directly after the austrian border. Just beautiful there. (i don't see that much of nature where i live: rhineland/ruhrvalley ;) ) Anyway i wish u a nice trip. :)

[frogfoot]

Thanks for all your help so far guys, it helps more than you know!

Well, this will be the travel routine by the looks of it…

Day 1-4 Munich Germany

Day 4-7 Salzburg Austria

Day 7-10 Split Croatia

Day 10-13 Dubrovnik Croatia

Day 14-18 Budapest Hungary

Day 19-20 Back to Munich for a flight to Canada

I picked up some books, and have lots of ideas, suggestions, recommendations of what to do, yet I am open to more advice!
Some complement to my earlier post:
In Hungary it cannot exist "Tourist Police"!They are criminals,a goon squad.Police officers check your passport(if necessary,but not a typical procedure with tourists),not your money!
Handy tips for all foreign citizens travelling to and staying in Hungary:www.b-m.hu/police (recommended!)
note:Hungary is relative safe for tourist,but in the tourist season foreign criminals come into action.

[Skaman]

Is a rail pass advisable, or should I pay per destination?

[frogfoot]

Is a rail pass advisable, or should I pay per destination?
in Hungary
MÁV(Hungarian Railway Company):www.mav.hu
ELVIRA-Railways Of Hungary:www.elvira.hu
Season-ticket for tourists(2nd class,7days valid):~14.000HUF~95CAD~60EUR

[DANJANOU]

Actually that's not a bad itinerary. You won't be too rushed and will actually have time to see and enjoy the places you're visiting.

Now remember to get treated extra special sew a big American Flag and GW picture to your backpack. :roll:

Seriously to get up to the minute and realistic advice go check out the thorn tree forums at Lonely Planet.

[frogfoot]

Is a rail pass advisable, or should I pay per destination?
in Hungary
MÁV(Hungarian Railway Company):www.mav.hu
ELVIRA-Railways Of Hungary:www.elvira.hu
Season-ticket for tourists(2nd class,7days valid):~14.000HUF~95CAD~60EUR
I clean forgot:VOLÁNBUSZ(Hungarian bus company,Eurolines partner!inland or international relations,fast and comfortable):www.volanbusz.hu

[username]

Watch out for pick pockets and don't walk down any dark alley's alone at night. Europe can be fun but Europe can be dangerous.

[Skaman]

What is standard attire for Night Clubs, Bars and such in places like Split, Budapest, and Munich?

[Benny]

Traveling through the Netherlands, France, Spain and finishing in Portugal would be a good option. You'll get to know many different landscapes, people and cities. However, if you go to Split, don't miss the chance to visit beautiful Italy (at least Venice). It's not far and I believe you won't feel disapointed.

[Dado]

What is standard attire for Night Clubs, Bars and such in places like Split, Budapest, and Munich?

I personally never been to Split.

But i think all you need to do is follow the coastline:
http://www.split24.de/galerie/riva/1024/riva_4.jpg
http://www.kuleuven.ac.be/winterschool/fotos%20WS%202004/split%20and%20surroundings/CG-Winterschool-2.04-Riva.jpg
http://www.adriatica.net/upload/hrvatska/gradovi/split/galerija./big/riva.jpg
http://www.drugagimnazija.hr/europa/split_noc.gif
http://www.vinoteka.hr/images/dog_slika4.jpg
http://www.visitsplit.com/images/SlikaPortfolio-12_preview.gif

[Ria]

Watch out for pick pockets and don't walk down any dark alley's alone at night. Europe can be fun but Europe can be dangerous.

Argh! Watch out for gypsies. They can be ruthless. Oh and they'll rip you off. So if they ask if you want your fortune, just politely say no and walk away. You don't want to be cursed (which is what happened to me) :P

[Haiw]

rofl
Hahahah Ria got cursed! *points and laughs* Seriously that's funny. :lol:

[Ria]

rofl
Hahahah Ria got cursed! *points and laughs* Seriously that's funny. :lol:

Yup. Me and my dad had no idea what was going on (it was in Portugal, so she was talking to my mom and my mom was translating). I could pick out words here and there. It was fine until she said she wanted more than the original price and we said no...so she told (actually, yelled at) us that we better watch out and hinted that our plane going home will crash. Meanwhile I was in the backseat, in the middle of drawing a pretty little picture, with tears in my eyes...it was scary! :| :P

[Haiw]

Well since your plane didn't crash that shows how full of **** she was. You should have stabbed her in the eye with the pencil you were drawing with.

[Ria]

Well since your plane didn't crash that shows how full of **** she was. You should have stabbed her in the eye with the pencil you were drawing with.

Actually, it was a colored pencil. Aw man, I could have made her eye turn blue! :)

[Haiw]

Well since your plane didn't crash that shows how full of **** she was. You should have stabbed her in the eye with the pencil you were drawing with.

Actually, it was a colored pencil. Aw man, I could have made her eye turn blue! :)
Sweet. You could have drawn tiger stripes on her skin as well. :D

[gaz]

Whilst in Slovakia I was walking down the street with two friends when a girl in her early twenties appeared out of nowhere, she grabbed my mate Geoff's nuts with one hand and started dry humping his leg like a dog, no actual words were exchanged, we just assumed it was a hooker and her sales pitch. The fact that she can't have been bigger than five feet tall made it even funnier, particularly since Geoff pretty much went into shock and didn't know what to do. After a minute or two James (The other lad) and I finally seperated them and we went on our way.

The next day Geoff realised that while she'd had one hand on his knackers she'd had the other in his coat pocket and had stolen his mobile phone. Naturally being the good friend I am I sent a message home telling everyone we knew that Geoff had been robbed by "a midget hooker", the look on his face when he had to explain to his girlfriend was priceless.

[Ria]

Sweet. You could have drawn tiger stripes on her skin as well. :D

Then shipped her off to Kenya! woot

[Haiw]

Sweet. You could have drawn tiger stripes on her skin as well. :D

Then shipped her off to Kenya! woot
And have her eaten by a REAL lion! woot

[Skaman]

Whilst in Slovakia I was walking down the street with two friends when a girl in her early twenties appeared out of nowhere, she grabbed my mate Geoff's nuts with one hand and started dry humping his leg like a dog, no actual words were exchanged, we just assumed it was a hooker and her sales pitch. The fact that she can't have been bigger than five feet tall made it even funnier, particularly since Geoff pretty much went into shock and didn't know what to do. After a minute or two James (The other lad) and I finally seperated them and we went on our way.

The next day Geoff realised that while she'd had one hand on his knackers she'd had the other in his coat pocket and had stolen his mobile phone. Naturally being the good friend I am I sent a message home telling everyone we knew that Geoff had been robbed by "a midget hooker", the look on his face when he had to explain to his girlfriend was priceless.


*checks off warning list* midget slovakian hookers

[Skaman]

From Dubrovnik, I was thinking of taking a bus to Mostar, passing through Sarajevo by train with the destination of Budapest in mind. Is this safe, or should I backtrack to Split, and take a train from there, keeping out of Bosnia all together?

[Dado]

From Dubrovnik, I was thinking of taking a bus to Mostar, passing through Sarajevo by train with the destination of Budapest in mind. Is this safe, or should I backtrack to Split, and take a train from there, keeping out of Bosnia all together?

I don´t see a problem passing trough Bosnia. It´s safe, war ended a decade ago.

[Dado]

Little more of Croatia.

http://img27.exs.cx/img27/294/croatia5kx.jpghttp://img27.exs.cx/img27/2663/croatia26bd.jpg
http://img27.exs.cx/img27/6518/croatia30ae.jpghttp://img27.exs.cx/img27/7918/croatia43qx.jpg
http://img27.exs.cx/img27/7435/croatia53hs.jpghttp://img27.exs.cx/img27/1584/croatia60fa.jpg
http://img27.exs.cx/img27/8341/croatia77hj.jpg

have as much *** as you can, european girls are the best of the world

[Skaman]

Thanks Dado.

[James]

If you are in France or the UK you should loudly claim to be an American and state how they should thank us for saving their bacon in WWII. Come to think of it, you should do that no matter where you go. That would make you more believeable. rofl Make some comment like "If it wasn't for us you'd all be speaking German now."

[Maine Finn]

I'm headin' for Ireland on Friday with a group from school. We'll be staying in Killarney, but there's gonna be a lot of "us" time while we're there. The trip goes from the 18th to the 26th, when we come home.

Any tips/advice on places or things to see/do while I'm over there? I want to try to make it to Dublin at some point.

Thanks!

[Options465]

I would appreciate any information from those living in Europe or those that have traveled through Europe as I will be backpacking through Germany, Austria, Hungary and on to Croatia this summer.

Probable stops include Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Budapest, then on to Split


Any advice regarding:

Tourist Traps
Sights to See
Places to Go
Things to Do
What to Avoid
How to Stay Safe
Transportation
Local customs/rules/requirements

Thanks,

Skaman


The only recommendation you're going to get from me is: "Do It, Do It, Do It, Do It"

[James]

I'm headin' for Ireland on Friday with a group from school. We'll be staying in Killarney, but there's gonna be a lot of "us" time while we're there. The trip goes from the 18th to the 26th, when we come home.

Any tips/advice on places or things to see/do while I'm over there? I want to try to make it to Dublin at some point.

Thanks!

Will you be able to get out of Killarney? I enjoyed the Aran Isles (Inish More, methinks), Galway (even thought it was full of American students in September 1998), Dingle (small town, no AMericans were there), and Dublin (A buddy and I took a tour of the Guinness brewery on a Sunday morning... he didn't want to use his coupons for free nectar, and I got loaded :P )

Ireland rocks. I need to go again.

[toki]

have as much *** as you can, european girls are the best of the world

hey! yeah yould be true. But... are you speaking from experience? :lol:
rofl No offence :hug: I like the variety of the girls of our beloved continent. Only had european girlfriends (at least from different countries) ;)

[Ratman]

Has anyone travelled to Munich? Split? Western Croatia? Thanks for all your advice thus far guys, im stokked.

I would spend most of my time in Croatia, island hopping. I've heard Split is very nice too. Don't plan for much time in Germany; while it's a very nice country, it's not for holidays unless you want to see a Wagner opera. Croatia is also a lot cheaper and the food is great.

[DeathBeforeDishonor]

I'm headin' for Ireland on Friday with a group from school.

You are sooooo lucky, what are you bringing me home. ;) Have a great time and stay safe, I would love to go to Ireland.

[Maine Finn]

I'm headin' for Ireland on Friday with a group from school.

You are sooooo lucky, what are you bringing me home. ;) Have a great time and stay safe, I would love to go to Ireland.

I already promise to get Hemppis a bottle of Laphroaig. Anything in particular you'd want? I could even deliver it personally. Haven't been in or around North Deering in awhile. ;)

[DeathBeforeDishonor]

I'm headin' for Ireland on Friday with a group from school.

You are sooooo lucky, what are you bringing me home. ;) Have a great time and stay safe, I would love to go to Ireland.

I already promise to get Hemppis a bottle of Laphroaig. Anything in particular you'd want? I could even deliver it personally. Haven't been in or around North Deering in awhile. ;)

No I was just kidding, thats nice of you though just have a great time woot

[molly747]

If you are in France or the UK you should loudly claim to be an American and state how they should thank us for saving their bacon in WWII. Come to think of it, you should do that no matter where you go. That would make you more believeable. rofl Make some comment like "If it wasn't for us you'd all be speaking German now."

Yeah, and be sure to dress appropriately. Planet Hollywood t-shirts and fanny packs are a must. Oh, and brand new Nikes and cut-offs are de rigueur for the European Epicurean.

[HooyahCQB]

Europe is great. You'll have a blast. I can't say much about France or the eastern lands because I haven't been there, but you'll find some very friendly people in the Germanic countries! Some of the best times of my life...

[Skaman]

A 10 hour bus ride from Zagreb to Dubrovnik? bruuutal.

[Brozozo]

Shhhnap! Croatia is nice, I always imagined it as a dump!

[Skaman]

Can anyone recommend good diving along the Dalmatian coast, or an ideal place to go that is within reasonable distance of Split or Dubrovnik?

[Ichhabe]

You are not welcomed in Europe anymore. Stay home!

[Skaman]

You are not welcomed in Europe anymore. Stay home!

warm reception...

[Dado]

Can anyone recommend good diving along the Dalmatian coast, or an ideal place to go that is within reasonable distance of Split or Dubrovnik?

Use the force.
You will know. When you are at peace...
calm... passive ;)


Just kidding, don´t worry you will have no problems finding good places to eat.
Food is great in Croatia wherever you go...
http://www.mlaska.com/images/patlidzani.jpghttp://www.mlaska.com/images/scampi.jpg
http://www.personal.us.es/archilla/figures/croatia/food.jpg
http://press.croatia.hr/datoteke/1589.jpg


More quick pics of Croatia:
http://www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr/pix/objekti/Katedrala~The_Cathedral.jpghttp://www.iaeste.uni-bonn.de/zagreb-reiter.jpg
http://www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr/pix/objekti/Hrvatsko_narodno_kazaliste~Croatian_National_Theatre.jpg
http://home.pages.at/tamb/photo/croatia/big/zagreb_inner_city.jpg
http://www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr/gallery/13/Trakoscan_Castle.jpghttp://www.studyabroad.wisc.edu/europe/images/Croatia/rovinj.jpg
http://www.zagreb-touristinfo.hr/gallery/13/Marija_Bist.jpghttp://www.mediterranean-yachting.com/Croatia/images/rovinj-2a.jpg
http://www.mlaska.com/images/beach3.jpghttp://www.mlaska.com/images/biokovo.jpg
http://www.mlaska.com/images/sunset1.jpghttp://www.mlaska.com/images/trakoscan.jpg

http://press.croatia.hr/datoteke/1511.jpghttp://press.croatia.hr/datoteke/1499.jpg
http://users.telenet.be/jozef.bossuyt/europe/croatia/plitvice/thumbnails.jpg
http://home.pages.at/tamb/photo/croatia/big/brac_zlatni_rat.jpg
http://press.croatia.hr/datoteke/1460.jpg
http://www.pointernet.pds.hu/touristinfo/croatia/image-dalmatia1/Croatia_Zadar_SvDonat.jpg

[Ria]

Wow, beautiful pics Dado. Croatia is so colorful :)

[Skaman]

Amazing Dado, these pictures do not cease to amaze me. One month and one week until I am gone! While the food looks great, I am more interested in potential dive spots, as in great places to scuba dive. I have my padi certificate, and I hope to rent some gear while I am over there.

[cut]

Can anyone recommend good diving along the Dalmatian coast, or an ideal place to go that is within reasonable distance of Split or Dubrovnik?

I bet they'll be diving places everywhere along the dalmatian coast, the waters there are the clearest in the med. Definately go to Dubrovnik and Korcula, went there in 97 and it was great, dunno if it is still as cheap though.

[Dado]

Amazing Dado, these pictures do not cease to amaze me. One month and one week until I am gone! While the food looks great, I am more interested in potential dive spots, as in great places to scuba dive. I have my padi certificate, and I hope to rent some gear while I am over there.

Someone say scuba....? Yessssssssssss you can scuba, bring your girlfriend too! ;)
http://img140.echo.cx/img140/5633/b019qj.jpg

[Skaman]

Amazing Dado, these pictures do not cease to amaze me. One month and one week until I am gone! While the food looks great, I am more interested in potential dive spots, as in great places to scuba dive. I have my padi certificate, and I hope to rent some gear while I am over there.

Someone say scuba....? Yessssssssssss you can scuba, bring your girlfriend too! ;)
http://img140.echo.cx/img140/5633/b019qj.jpg

appy as de hippo!

[Skaman]

Well, I am back after a month of Euro hopping. During my travels I saw Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich, Ljubljana, Vienna, Budapest, Zagreb, Split, Knin and Dubrovnik. Stories and photos to come.

[Erkeengel]

Well upon reflection I found out that I really would love to travel around a bit in eastern europe, like Poland, Ukraine and Lithuania (spelling).

I just wonder are there some kinds of interrail tickets or tickets for busses that would allow me to take a trip as I wish, like "valid for 2 months" and such.

And of course how is it to travel in these countries, is it safe for a person to travel alone, naturally not acting like a total A-hole towards people, just looking for some input here if someone has been there, or of course actually live in Eastern-Europe.

Most likely I will not be able to go until next summer though :-(

[Ruledbyjames]

Im going to Eastern Europe this summer with a group of mates. We are going to Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Bulgaria.

Some routes apparently are abit hairy. I hear the Gdansk-Krakow train route is rough. Ive been warned of gas canister being rolled under doors to knock the inhabitants out, and then money and other valuabes stolen.

Search for the thread by Tyovan4. He travelled to Eastern europe by himself and has good knowledge of the area.

Like everwhere though, you have dumps and will meet rough people. Thats where the adventure is.

*edit* Named Czech Republic twice

[mack pl]

Well upon reflection I found out that I really would love to travel around a bit in eastern europe, like Poland, Ukraine and Lithuania (spelling).

I just wonder are there some kinds of interrail tickets or tickets for busses that would allow me to take a trip as I wish, like "valid for 2 months" and such.

And of course how is it to travel in these countries, is it safe for a person to travel alone, naturally not acting like a total A-hole towards people, just looking for some input here if someone has been there, or of course actually live in Eastern-Europe.

Most likely I will not be able to go until next summer though :-(

I'll give you advise....dont do that !!!! wolfs or polar bears gonna eat you !!!



and seriously, ask Tyovan4, he visited Poland recently

http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?t=62876&highlight=backpacking

[gaz]

Im going to Eastern Europe this summer with a group of mates. We are going to Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Czech Republic and Bulgaria.

Some routes apparently are abit hairy. I hear the Gdansk-Krakow train route is rough. Ive been warned of gas canister being rolled under doors to knock the inhabitants out, and then money and other valuabes stolen.

Search for the thread by Tyovan4. He travelled to Eastern europe by himself and has good knowledge of the area.

I did an almost identical trip about three years ago but instead of Bulgaria we went to Austria. Your best bet would probably be to get hold of an Inter Rail pass from www.interrailnet.com

[Ruledbyjames]

Buying it Monday. What did you think of the trip Gaz? Any tips or places to go (clubs,pubs)?

[gaz]

There are certain moments from my life that will always be ingrained on my memory and a lot of them come from that trip, do it and you'll never forget it. Just use your common sense and don't turn into one of the idiots that give Westerners a bad name by pissing and drinking in the street and you'll be fine. The only problem we had was in Bratislava when a hooker literally grabbed one of my friends, it took a couple of minutes to get rid of her and it wasn't until the morning we realised she'd lifted his phone.

We didn't really bother with clubs since I've enver actually been a huge fan of them, I've always preferred bars and pubs. The only one that really springs out in my mind is Krisitan Pub (http://www.kristian.sk/) in Bratislava. We went in on a quiet night and were pretty much treated like royalty.

[Ruledbyjames]

I know of alot of the tourist attractions, the sites and history of those countries because Ive been to all bar Bulgaria. I just havent been to the night life venues so thats why I ask.

[Knutsen]

I've travelled around eastern europe twice, on my first trip i visited the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary and on my second one i went to Poland (most of the trip ) and briefly to Ukraine and Belarus (but since i just went to a couple of border towns it doesn't really count). Both great experiences although i had slightly better times in Poland (especially in Krakow), but that only depends on the people you meet.
Hope you guys have a great trip.

[futurepilot2004]

Go to that place in "Hostel". The girls there are fantastic!!!!!!

[v-twin]

Poland and Lithuania are Central Europe you noobs :P

Now, Bulgaria's kinda dangerous. If you're driving, be cautios, lots of racketeers(sp) and people who want your money(especially fake cops or real cops who make up laws on the spot). Be prepared to give lots of bribes(make sure you have lots of €5 bills, from my understandment that's the bribe they take).

Conclusion: visit Romania, it's better :P

Enjoy your trip dude, wherever you go :)

[Schizo]

Dude, talking about bribes, money and stealing... Romania is your 1st place to go...

rofl

[UkrainianAmerican]

Prague is good if you ignore some Italian and British 'cultural ambassadors' . Budapest is off teh chain, the best girls in europe and possibly the world...nice ppl....cheap.

[tyovan]

I can't speak for the Ukraine or for Lithuania - but I can speak a little bit for Poland. I spent around three weeks travelling around the country by myself. I went to Szczecin, Walcz, Lodz, Czestochowa, Bydgoszcz (accidentally), Krakow, Oswiecim, Wieliczka, and Warszawa.

I stayed with friends in Szczecin, Walcz, and Lodz. Wieliczka and Oswiecim were side-trips I took from Krakow. Use it as a base to explore those two towns. The hostel I stayed at in Krakow had free internet, a great coffee/hot chocolate machine, clean rooms, and friendly staff. The location was amazing. Centuries old building right on the town square itself. http://www.cracowhostel.com/

In Warszawa, I stayed at Nathan's Villa Hostel. Free laundry, free internet, satellite tv in the lounges. Clean rooms, with lockers in the rooms. http://www.nathansvilla.com/?l=&loc=wwa&id=home


Now I guess you'll want to hear about the country. In winter , it is cold! But if you're going in summer, it should be quite nice. I spent some time in Wroclaw in the summer a few years ago.

Transport will be your biggest problem. The rail service there is a nightmare from hell. The trains are old, dirty, and slow. Use the bathroom before you get on-board. You will be seated in a compartment with up to 5 or 7 other people. There may very well be drunk, loud conscripts on-board with you who look scary. PKP staff will not speak English - at larger stations you may be able to find one staff member who can. Inter-city bus transport can also be a problem. If you're going to Wieliczka - I can tell you in my experience to take a private tour. If you try to get there on your own, it will be very difficult. I walked everywhere in the cities, so I can't tell you about inner-city public transport.

Not all hotel staff will speak English either - some of them do speak German so you can communicate in that way if you speak some German. Call ahead to make sure the hostels will be open before you arrive - I learned that lesson on my trip too. If you're going in summer, I recommend making some reservations - at least a few days in advance.

Things are very affordable. Accommodation, transportation, and eating, and drinking. If you are polite, and make an effort, and are persistant - you will eventually get what you need, someone will eventually help you. A Polish phrase book is a MUST though. Try to learn some words before you leave.

If you're polite and are clearly making an effort, someone will eventually help you - or do the very best they can to help you.

Have fun mate, this is definately something I recommend doing!



If you have ANY questions, feel free to ask mate!

[Switek]

Well upon reflection I found out that I really would love to travel around a bit in eastern europe, like Poland, Ukraine and Lithuania (spelling).

I just wonder are there some kinds of interrail tickets or tickets for busses that would allow me to take a trip as I wish, like "valid for 2 months" and such.

And of course how is it to travel in these countries, is it safe for a person to travel alone, naturally not acting like a total A-hole towards people, just looking for some input here if someone has been there, or of course actually live in Eastern-Europe.

Most likely I will not be able to go until next summer though :-(


If you be near Poznań you can stay at me I live 45 km south of this City, NO problem mate!

[uglybaby]

Czech is pretty safe. Just watch out for pick pockets and use your head in the big cities (Prague, Brno..ehmm thats bout it for big cities). Common sense is all you need there. People are real friendly and it helps to know some phrases, please thankyou things like that. People appreciate it if you make the effort.

[v-twin]

Dude, talking about bribes, money and stealing... Romania is your 1st place to go...

rofl
I was talking about Bulgaria; Romania's a BIT safer :P

[Danik]

I was talking about Bulgaria; Romania's a BIT safer :P


eeeeeer, incorrect, out of Eastern Europe it is deff the most unsafe place. Im from Latvia, but my mom is from a city that was a part of Romania for a while, when I mentioned that I might go there both my parents made sure I change my mind. When we were still living in USSR my mom would travel there, in short a public bus was held up with AKs and grenades and robbed completely with her on it, pickpokets are not even discrete about there business, rob you in broad daylight in crowded places. Bulgarians are at least hospitable, the bribes go for every Eastern European country, if you speak the language you can get out of em.

[Danik]

The Baltic states are the most developed out of Eastern Europe; Czech Rep, Hungary, Poland are all Central Europe and out of them Czechs are deff the best. Hungarian girls though are amazing and very friendly. Havent travelled around Poland yet, but Prague and Budapest are great. In Ukraine Kiev, Odessa, Crimea, Dnepr are all good. In Latvia, Riga and Jarmala are what's up. As for Moldova, Belaruss, and Romania, its hard to say, Belaruss has hot girls but not much to see, moldova is a poor Ukraine, and Romania is comparable to some African countries. Some of the Americans in my dorm went there and seriously disliked it, although they said transalvania is cool.

PS Brits provide me in intelligence on which Eastern and Central European Cities you plan to disrupt next.

[tyovan]

Oh - and I forgot: Zywiec is very, very good but you are advised to stay away from Lech. ;)

[Asheren]

Its propably because you didn't had a chance to drink Lech Pils instead of that Lech Premium ****. About that gas and stuff such **** mostly happen in night trains avoid "pospieszne" if you can in those train you don't have to reserve place before you go soo anyone can get in to it. It can be extremly overcrowded during day. I traveled in night trains few times in my life and offen on shorter routes or near end station it is basicaly empty. Thieves offen get in on one station and leave on next. If you travel in group chances that something bad happen are low at last if you keep at last one person awake in cease of thieves. It is better to use Express or Intercity trains. It cost more but travel is much more comfortable and chances that something bad happen are low.

[Ruledbyjames]

For the night trains can you rent rooms with some sort of beds? At one stage we are taking a 9 hour train route and it would be nice to be able to stretch your legs!

[v-twin]

eeeeeer, incorrect, out of Eastern Europe it is deff the most unsafe place. Im from Latvia, but my mom is from a city that was a part of Romania for a while, when I mentioned that I might go there both my parents made sure I change my mind. When we were still living in USSR my mom would travel there, in short a public bus was held up with AKs and grenades and robbed completely with her on it, pickpokets are not even discrete about there business, rob you in broad daylight in crowded places. Bulgarians are at least hospitable, the bribes go for every Eastern European country, if you speak the language you can get out of em.
Where exactly was that? That city is probably in either Bulgaria, Ukraine or Moldova. I can honestly tell you that has never happened in Romania. No busses have ever been held at gunpoint in Romania, however pickpockets are a fact of life in public transit and I avoid it as much as I can when I'm there. Cops can't be bribed so easy now, of course there are bribes, but you have less chances of encountering a situation that can be solved by bribing. Things have really changed.

Now, if you're a tourist visiting my country, I recommend Transylvania, it's beautiful and very Westernized, Northern Moldavia and the seaside.
Cheers :)

[Danik]

I just said it was in Romania. My family is from Izmail which used to be a part of Romania for a while. the AK story happened IN Romania, if you like I can find out where exactly. It is one of a host of stories I heard about Romania from first hand account. As well you dont see dateline doing specials on Bulagria, but they did do one on how 12 year old boys are being prostituted in Romania.

All Im saying is that Bulgaria is safer than Romania. And Ukraine is Incomparable to both of them.

[SR15]

I had fun in Ukraine last summer , but i had to get a viza, and if you know russian that will help. nice place , everything cheap, and very hot girls !

[v-twin]

For a 'while' means before 1945. Izmail is in Ukraine now. We lost teritory to the USSR after the WW II. See my point? I'd really like to know where exactly that story took place.

You live in the US. Your only connections to Eastern Europe are 'stories' and what you see on TV. That's not accurate mate. I'm not arguing that there are some pretty weird things happening in the well-know foster homes that went worlwide in the early 90s, but your view of the country is inaccurate. Try reading the newspapers. You have public fsking executions in Bulgaria. That doesn't rank so high on my 'safe' list. But please, do tell me where that incident occured.

[Haiw]

Can't we just agree on the fact that all of Eastern Europe is just one big ****hole? ;)

[mack pl]

Can't we just agree on the fact that all of Eastern Europe is just one big ****hole? ;)

nope, we can't agreed.

[Zarathustra]

Go to central Europe instead (especially croatia, slovenia), theres nothing worth seeing in eastern europe

[Danik]

For a 'while' means before 1945. Izmail is in Ukraine now. We lost teritory to the USSR after the WW II. See my point? I'd really like to know where exactly that story took place.

You live in the US. Your only connections to Eastern Europe are 'stories' and what you see on TV. That's not accurate mate. I'm not arguing that there are some pretty weird things happening in the well-know foster homes that went worlwide in the early 90s, but your view of the country is inaccurate. Try reading the newspapers. You have public fsking executions in Bulgaria. That doesn't rank so high on my 'safe' list. But please, do tell me where that incident occured.

The history of Izmail as a part of Romania is very short, they controled it for no more than 60 years in the city's entire existence. Well Im stuying in central Europe so Im right near by, and I was in Izmail this summer. Which ever one of the countries as a whole is safer is deff not something I can accurately judge. But I know Bulgaria has incredible beach resorts and is known for it, Sofia is a wonderful city thats pretty safe. But I cant say I know the same for Romania, as Im sure there are places in both countries that are as bad as each other. I could find out where it took place but that will require to much time since Im in Czech Rep and my mother is in NYC, calling there is a pain in the ass. Your 17, ask your parents about the kind of stuff that was happening in Romania in 1992-93 when this story took place and you will find that its very much feasible.

[Schizo]

theres nothing worth seeing in eastern europe
That's a big negative!

Visit Russia, especially Moscow and St.peter woot

[JoaMei]

Go to central Europe instead (especially croatia, slovenia), theres nothing worth seeing in eastern europe

Depends, the girls are pretty nice and interested in men from the west. ;)

[v-twin]

I agree with Schizo, there are plenty to see, wherever you go in Europe. But he's French. They're go on strike a lot, let him be. :)

Danik, yes, Bulgaria has awesome resorts, however, you have to understand that traveling through Bulgaria can be pretty dangerous, as well as traveling through Romania if you don't know certain 'rules', like don't stop on the side of the road when you see people, don't interact with gypsies, watch your pockets when riding the public transit. Yes, maybe there are **** countries, but we still love them.

In 1992/93 Izmail was no longer under Romanian control. What you are hinting at during that time in Romania were riots caused by miners who came to Bucharest and beat up university students, but I doubt it happened anywhere else.

East Europe's fun dudes, but each country has its own things; Bulgaria has its beaches, Romania has Transylvania and Northern Moldavia, Ukraine has its nice wheat fields, Hungary has Budapest, Balaton and the wines.

*hugs Europe*

[Latre]

First little bit about my plan for the summer. We're going to buy a car from Finland and drive to Israel and then fly back to Finland. We're going to drive through eastern Europe, then to Turkey, Syria, Jordan and Israel. Europe part should be easy, since most of the countries belong to the EU. However I'd like to ask a few questions about Turkey, Syria, Jordan and Israel and since this is only site with members from those countries which I visit even semi-regularly I thought this would be good place to go.

First thing is safety, are car-jackings or street robberies common and if there are some country specific-things one shouldn't do? Second thing is border-crossings, how much time will they take and do they require some bribes? Thirdly since we're planning to sell the car in Israel, so I'd like to know how easy it is, are there any jurisdiction to prevent it, which used cars are popular and are there similar car lots as there are in other western countries?

And most of all, I'd like to get some tips from locals about what to see which isn't mentioned in ordinary tourist guides, everything from sight-seeing places to UG-night clubs is much appreciated. Also all the personal experiences and stories are welcome.

[Moledet]

Car jacking as in someone pulling you out of your car isn't common at all but cars do get stolen when they are parked for the night (about 35000 a year). I guess you will be staying at a hotel and they usually have a guard at the entrance to the parking, so no worries.
You will need insurance, I am not sure how you get insured here so you need to check it. Basic insurance for a car is about 1200NIS/year.
It isn't much problem crossing from Jordan to Israel, don't offer bribe on the Israeli side because you will get arrested most likely also in Jordan.
About selling the car, I am not sure. All you get is a permit to enter with the car to Israel and travel with it for 3-6 months. You can sell it as scrap metal but anything else-not sure.
Search here or email them:
http://info.mot.gov.il/EN/

I guess from your route that you are going to stick to roads, most popular cars:
Supermini - Dahiatsu Sirion
Compact - Mazda 3
Large family cars - Mazda 6
Premium - Volvo S60
Minivan - Mazda 5
Compact off-road - Hyundai Tucson
Full Off-road - Toyota Land Cruiser

Night clubs depend on your age, each club has a certain age restriction that it imposes.

[Invisigoth]

Night clubs in Israel are.... awesome. I will let you discover the rest. As tourists in Arab countries you are usually on the good side of things, especially with the cops.

general things to remember in that region, generous tips tend to grease the wheels of anything (-Israel). Just have your wits about you, plan for contingencies (i.e. your car gets stolen, you get molested by Dana International, etc.).

Against all reports, the Middle East can be fun as hell, just don't do dumb **** and you will be alright.

[Karaahmetoglu]

Turkey is not middle east, nor Arab. As long as you remember this you will be okay in Turkey.:):)

Oh yeah don't make say anything bad about Turkey or Ataturk while in Turkey as well.

[deagle]

for the most part, mid-east isn't really recommended for moon-light tourists. better to have some connection, both to minimize costs and maximize security. otherwise, you're going into countries and locations w/o knowing anyone, and relying on tourist traps notorious for fleecing. also, if you have a friend in intelligence services, watch "taken", in case stuff goes down.

[polyhistor]

Turkey is not middle east, nor Arab. As long as you remember this you will be okay in Turkey.:):)

Oh yeah don't make say anything bad about Turkey or Ataturk while in Turkey as well.

kinda off topic, but everytime id meet a turkish person ( usually older, 30 + ) id mention i studied about Ataturk and how he helped transform Turkey into the better country it is today i would always get browny points esp from the ladies. heh heh. sorry, just felt the need to share that little bit i remember.

[Karaahmetoglu]

kinda off topic, but everytime id meet a turkish person ( usually older, 30 + ) id mention i studied about Ataturk and how he helped transform Turkey into the better country it is today i would always get browny points esp from the ladies. heh heh. sorry, just felt the need to share that little bit i remember.


http://s7v1.scene7.com/is/image/JohnLewis/230468360?$product$


ATATURK STRONG!!!!11!!!!!1!!

[polyhistor]

well to be honest, i read about the man and what he did for turkey but i could never understand why the Turkish people reacted how they did and how strongly they felt for him. They were always impressed that some random american knew about him i guess. again not to de-rail this thread. but from what i read, he was an example for many to certianly live up to.

but for middle-east travel, i couldnt imagine any place safe enough there to travel through and "tour" i mean, for the route the OP mentioned, wouldnt a great deal of arabic be needed to safely manuver through those countries and find motels / inn's and the like to converse with the locals? id always be paranoid myself, that someoen would kidnap me for ransom.

[DivingEngineer]

kinda off topic, but everytime id meet a turkish person ( usually older, 30 + ) id mention i studied about Ataturk and how he helped transform Turkey into the better country it is today i would always get browny points esp from the ladies. heh heh. sorry, just felt the need to share that little bit i remember.

awesome! kinda like if you are talking to a persian its the 'Persian Gulf' and if your talking to an Arab its the 'Arabian Gulf' .

Ive also found in some of my travels (Oman, a bit of Saudi, UAE) that knowing a bit of the lingo helps to no end, Also have all your travel stuff (International Drivers licence, Passport, Name and Address of Hotel/hostel) handy it, it just helps if you get pulled over.

Are you planning to see the ruin of Petra in jordan?? Cause ive allways wanted to go there, im fasinated with ruins etc.

[Ameen]

As for Syria, I wouldn't be too worried about being car jacked. Depending on which passport you hold, you may need to apply ahead of time for a visa to get into Syria. I don't know how it is getting into Syria from Turkey, but I know that it is very easy to get into Syria from Lebanon even if you didn't get your visa ahead of time. Last time, i just gave the border guard some extra cash. I would highly recommend you driving along the coast through Al latika, syria to Tripoli (Lebanon) to Beirut and then to Damascus. It is an amazing drive compared to the desert of middle syria.

[Nulsecundus]

Since when Turkey is not the Midle East?









Turkey is not middle east, nor Arab. As long as you remember this you will be okay in Turkey.:):)

Oh yeah don't make say anything bad about Turkey or Ataturk while in Turkey as well.

[Korath]

As for Syria, I wouldn't be too worried about being car jacked. Depending on which passport you hold, you may need to apply ahead of time for a visa to get into Syria. I don't know how it is getting into Syria from Turkey, but I know that it is very easy to get into Syria from Lebanon even if you didn't get your visa ahead of time. Last time, i just gave the border guard some extra cash. I would highly recommend you driving along the coast through Al latika, syria to Tripoli (Lebanon) to Beirut and then to Damascus. It is an amazing drive compared to the desert of middle syria.

It's a good point. It would also be good to go to Baalbeck on the route. It's an amazing place. Someone mentioned Petra - it's a must in Jordan and the idea would be to travel from Amman to Petra and then to Eilat in Israel. BTW - if interested in history - don't miss Jerash N of Amman. Israel is easy to travel. Distances are short. Infrastructure excellent - just watch your expenses.

[Nulsecundus]

Another point of interest in Jordan, is Mount Nebo, which is situated about 20 km south west of Amman.
This the place where the prohet Moses was shown the Promised Land.
It is claimed also that this was his burial place.
On the road to Petra and on one the hills, is the burial place of the prophet Aaron.
These places will be very crowded due to the Pope's Benedict ,visit to Jordan on Friday 8th of April.
Furthermore,there is the Maghtas area which is situated in the Jordan Valley, east of the River Jordan.
This the place where Jesus was baptised.









It's a good point. It would also be good to go to Baalbeck on the route. It's an amazing place. Someone mentioned Petra - it's a must in Jordan and the idea would be to travel from Amman to Petra and then to Eilat in Israel. BTW - if interested in history - don't miss Jerash N of Amman. Israel is easy to travel. Distances are short. Infrastructure excellent - just watch your expenses.

[Latre]

Thanks for all the answers. Our route plan goes something along Istanbul-Ankara-Aleppo-Damascus-Amman-Petra-Eilat-Jerusalem-Tel Aviv. We weren't going to visit Lebanon, mostly because of lack of time, also it would make two border-crossings more. As for the local contacts, we have couple in Turkey, but none after that. But that's why you travel, to make those contacts.

We're already applying visas for Jordan, but it's quite hard to find any information about Syrian visas, especially since they don't have a Finnish embassy. I've heard that you can buy one from the border, but of course it's smarter to do that beforehand.

Genarally it's quite easy to travel with Finnish passport, since we're not in the Nato or Iraq and nobody knows about Finnish soldiers in Afghanistan.

[valtrex]

Since when Turkey is not the Midle East?
Since ever. Technically, Turkey is Asia Minor and not Middle East

[Telmar]

I may be wrong, but if your nationality would require you to have a visa for travelling to Israel, and that visa is on your passport, Syria might deny you entry.

Of course, if no visible sign of you travelling to Israel is visible on your travel documents, then all is well because Israel does not mind.

[Octavariable]

One more thing, I would strongly advice you not to mention your end destination in Syria, and take extra care about it in Turkey and Jordan.
and also hope there won't be any problems with a Syrian stamp on your passport when entering Israel.

Have a nice drive

[Korath]

At the time, when Israeli visas were required, there used to be a practice of getting them on separate pieces of paper, but few European countries need them now anyway.

[Telmar]

Since ever. Technically, Turkey is Asia Minor and not Middle East

The confusion arises from the fact that noone uses the term "near-East" anymore. The name was used to talk about countries such as Lebanon, Israel, Syria, that border the Mediterranean. The Middle East is more Iraq, The Gulf and Iran.

I think Turkey is included in the Near-East. Asia Minor is a very old term from the Greek era and only includes the present territory of Turkey if I am not mistaken.

[Player]

Geographically Turkey is in the Middle East, the only exception is the European part which lies on the Western side of the Bosporus strait.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/1/13/GreaterMiddleEast1.png

[valtrex]

The confusion arises from the fact that noone uses the term "near-East" anymore. The name was used to talk about countries such as Lebanon, Israel, Syria, that border the Mediterranean. The Middle East is more Iraq, The Gulf and Iran.

I think Turkey is included in the Near-East. Asia Minor is a very old term from the Greek era and only includes the present territory of Turkey if I am not mistaken.
Sorry for the OT, just to elaborate:
1-We Greeks never use the term "Middle East" for Turkey, it's always Minor Asia (from the Aegean coast to roughly Ankara) or Anatolia (the rest of Turkey) for us.
2-Middle East is used mostly for the Arab nations in the area.
3-If you want to include Turkey, Israel, Cyprus, even Greece , use the term Levant which is more appropriate.

[Karaahmetoglu]

Since when Turkey is not the Midle East?


Since ever. Technically, Turkey is Asia Minor and not Middle East


Sorry for the OT, just to elaborate:
1-We Greeks never use the term "Middle East" for Turkey, it's always Minor Asia (from the Aegean coast to roughly Ankara) or Anatolia (the rest of Turkey) for us.
2-Middle East is used mostly for the Arab nations in the area.
3-If you want to include Turkey, Israel, Cyprus, even Greece , use the term Levant which is more appropriate.

My neighbor here explains everything very well.

[kosse]

Uhhuh, why do you want to buy a car from Finland? In my opinion you should avoid that if you have any choice because it's propably going to be the most expensive car of your life. Of course if money is not an issue then it's pretty much the same were you get your wheels from..

[Warlord]

BTW, some Mideast countries wont let you in if you have an Israeli stamp in your passport. That's what deterred me from coming to Israel through Jordan some time ago since I won't be accepted back in Saudi Arabia.

I've been to both Jordan and Syria, they're ok. I can speak Arabic. Although there was news in Syria a few years ago about pretend cops waiving down cars in the highways and robbing them. So be careful, this could happen in any country.

I find this very helpful for a lot of reasons including security: If you want to ask for anything like directions or where to buy stuff from a random stranger, always introduce yourself and ask him/her his name - shake their hands while doing this, when you're done put your hand on your chest/heart. Knowing a name would be easier for you to tell the cops who fncked you up.

[DivingEngineer]

BTW, some Mideast countries wont let you in if you have an Israeli stamp in your passport. That's what deterred me from coming to Israel through Jordan some time ago since I won't be accepted back in Saudi Arabia.


i was also told the same thing, if you go to israel and then plan on any other m/e countries you should 'lose' a passport and keep one for israel and one for other travels.

[Latre]

Uhhuh, why do you want to buy a car from Finland? In my opinion you should avoid that if you have any choice because it's propably going to be the most expensive car of your life. Of course if money is not an issue then it's pretty much the same were you get your wheels from..

We thought about buying a car from Sweden, but we weren't sure how border crossings would work if the car was registered to another country than Finland. Most of all we aren't going to buy some expensive, luxurious car, but the cheapest one that is reliable enough. So the price difference isn't really that big.


BTW, some Mideast countries wont let you in if you have an Israeli stamp in your passport. That's what deterred me from coming to Israel through Jordan some time ago since I won't be accepted back in Saudi Arabia.

It won't be a problem for us in any case since we fly from Israel, and you can get a stamp on a different piece of paper if you want, so you can still enter those arab countries after you leave Israel.

[hatchet_harry]

thread hijack!

we are planning a study trip, israel, more precisey tel aviv could be a possible destination.

whats TA like in february/march? is that a good time to visit (climate, leisure all in all)?

also, it should be a study trip, field: engineering. are there any interesting big construction projects around tel aviv? you know, railways, skyscrapers, waterplants, tunnels, stuff like that.

i found very few infos about construction in israel on the net. in english, that is, because as soon as i see a page in hebrew with no "english version" button i stop digging.

thanks in advance

[Moledet]

Tel Aviv is usually 20+ Celsius in that time of the year.
It's not considered a very good time since it's winter and there are few festivals and few people at the beach since water are cold (18C-20C).
Tel Aviv is supposed to be building a metro but I am not sure you can actually see anything being built.

You can find computer engineering, electrical engineering, medical engineering but construction usually not interesting stuff.

[Pars]

A childhood friend of mine and myself are planning to travel to Israel in the not so distant future. We haven't set a date or anything but we've wanting to do this together for quite some time now.

I'm asking if any of our Israeli members could share with me any traveling tips on Israel. What time of the year it is best to travel, places to visit other than the most-known places and where to stay. I'd be grateful if you would be so kind as to share this. Thanks! :)

[IDF_TANKER]

Take a look here:
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?t=159482

If you are looking for beaches and bikini chicks, visit in summer. If you are more interested in seeing stuff, I suggest you to avoid coming in summer - too hot, too crowded and probably more expensive. Winter is also not the best time, in Jerusalem and north can be pretty cold and nasty weather.

In general, you have to be more specific in your questions.

[Pars]

Take a look here:
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?t=159482

If you are looking for beaches and bikini chicks, visit in summer. If you are more interested in seeing stuff, I suggest you to avoid coming in summer - too hot, too crowded and probably more expensive. Winter is also not the best time, in Jerusalem and north can be pretty cold and nasty weather.

In general, you have to be more specific in your questions.

That thread pretty much had must of the info and tips I was looking for. Thanks a lot, IDF_TANKER. And sorry for not being more spesific p-)

[AZZenny]

For specifics on places to stay, to eat, costs, bus routes, things to see, I suggest you try the Israel Forum on tripadvisor -- you can get amazingly detailed info there. One thing to be aware of is the timing of major holiday periods in Fall and in Spring. I've been in June, Sept, and March -- and I may be again in late Oct. My own slight preference is for early Spring to early Summer.

[Enduring Freedom]

If You have any entry stamps in your passport from arab countries, then get a new passport. Otherwise you'll have to spend an extra hour or so, answering questions from the border police.

[Pars]

For specifics on places to stay, to eat, costs, bus routes, things to see, I suggest you try the Israel Forum on tripadvisor -- you can get amazingly detailed info there. One thing to be aware of is the timing of major holiday periods in Fall and in Spring. I've been in June, Sept, and March -- and I may be again in late Oct. My own slight preference is for early Spring to early Summer.

Thanks for the tip, AZZenny! Appreciated. I'm just too lazy and dumb to find these thing on my own.


If You have any entry stamps in your passport from arab countries, then get a new passport. Otherwise you'll have to spend an extra hour or so, answering questions from the border police.


Thanks for the heads up. But I've never been to an Arab country, and frankly I don't ever see me going to one either.

[Kaplanr]

OK. The wife and I are looking at "exotic", romantic places (with good food) to go for our 20th. Don't be fooled by exotic. We seem to enjoy medium size cities with history, good walking, random places to wander and maybe a chance to hit the countryside for some hiking/walking. She's borderline anti-social and I talk to anyone. Loved Prague, thought Venice was just OK. Here's the choices in no particular order. We're looking to gor for 10-15 days this June-July. What think you?

Edinburgh
Dublin
Budapest
Amsterdam
Lisbon
Istanbul
Copenhagen
Oslo
Berlin

[LaoSexMachine]

Kinville, Okinawa. The piss smell alley is amore.

[Policía Loco]

Personally........


...history, good walking,....

Istanbul
Budapest


....hit the countryside for some hiking/walking.....

Edinburgh
Dublin


....I talk to anyone.....

Berlin


....Loved Prague....

Budapest

[Imp]

Edinburgh? Man, you so crazy!
Well, you asked. So here is an anonymous internet strangers advice for your vacation:

(Order of Preference)
Amsterdam
Budapest
Lisbon
Berlin
Istanbul
Copenhagen
Oslo
Dublin
Edinburgh

[gaijinsamurai]

I liked Edinburgh.
Prague and Amsterdam were nice too. I've never been to Budapest, of the cities on your list, that would be #1 for me.

[Policía Loco]

Well, I meant the Scottish countryside. But not necessarily Edinburgh. The city itself would be my last choice, or not even a choice at all.

[Chiptox]

Cleveland

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysmLA5TqbIY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZzgAjjuqZM&feature=related

[wildcat]

after cleveland as being the number 1, best seeing a browns game when you are there, so book during football season, I recommend Paris.

London is ok, Edinburgh and dublin are not that interesting. Other than some old stuff really is not much to the places, London had great museums and palaces, towers and shows, but to really enjoy London you need 4-5 days. Plan in advance places to visit, things todo, with lots of down time and in between time, also in the UK research eating places, so you know where to get food you would want to eat. as for the other cities I have not been to them, which make me thank why not?

I once took a girl to Burge in Belgium great day trip for a romantic place to visit, you could see all interesting stuff in the day and relax at the lovers lake part in the evening, maybe stay the night and move on the next day.

This is my opinion, and might not reflex what others think, I grew up in the UK, and spent time in all those cities.

[Ledanek]

Melbourne
Uluru
Cairns/Great Barrier Reef

we did it for 3 weeks....very worth it

[SoftLion]

Cleveland video funny. Also, try Detroit, the Cradle of the auto industry, filth, and population drift. Enjoy a trepidatious walk down Livernois Ave, and hit the countryside for some spectacular brownfield vistas.

[wildcat]

Cleveland video funny. Also, try Detroit, the Cradle of the auto industry, filth, and population drift. Enjoy a trepidatious walk down Livernois Ave, and hit the countryside for some spectacular brownfield vistas.

don't for get Windsor across the water, a place to get away from away.

[Carib]

Lisboa...........

[Chiptox]

Cleveland video funny. Also, try Detroit, the Cradle of the auto industry, filth, and population drift. Enjoy a trepidatious walk down Livernois Ave, and hit the countryside for some spectacular brownfield vistas.
What about Pittsburgh?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mobi0B0L37w

[bryanleu2002]

whatever you do dont go here! "St. Croix" No history, no hikes, no wandering, no particular anything..

[scrybe]

Split it along the Southern coast of Spain. Start in Grenada, see the Alhambra, head over to Malaga and spend a couple days there, then work your way up the coast until you hit Barcelona. Make sure to take the elevator to the top of the Segrada Familia. Breathtaking.

[JJC]

Istanbul! Great history to explore and the food will be better than anywhere else.

[lightfire]

OK. The wife and I are looking at "exotic", romantic places (with good food) to go for our 20th. Don't be fooled by exotic. We seem to enjoy medium size cities with history, good walking, random places to wander and maybe a chance to hit the countryside for some hiking/walking. She's borderline anti-social and I talk to anyone. Loved Prague, thought Venice was just OK. Here's the choices in no particular order. We're looking to gor for 10-15 days this June-July. What think you?

Edinburgh
Dublin
Budapest
Amsterdam
Lisbon
Istanbul
Copenhagen
Oslo
Berlin

Since you stick with Europe how about Vilnius? 600k city, probably unvisited. All the places you've mentioned are nice and have a lot to offer, though not sure how one can call that exotic. For a westerner post-soviet block states normally are more exotic. Having said that I think you might be surprised to find both post soviet exotic, nearby countryside (Rumsiskes, Trakai, Gruto "soviet funland" park), history (one of the biggest old towns in E.Europe, multicultural - lithuanian, russian, polish, jewish, tartar etc herritage), hiking walking (with stops at Italian caffes/inns/wineries or openly pub crawl). Plus it's cheaper than the places you've mentioned and less crowded with tourists.

just sayin'

[Policía Loco]

The Croatian coast would be nice, or Ljubljana.

[IDF_TANKER]

Jerusalem.

...................

[Warlord]

Payatas, Manila - Philippines

[CMNot]

I'd choose Berlin for the history, culture, food and (probably most of all) the people. Most people seem happy to converse in English, especially if you at least try to ask if they speak English in your best German, and are - paradoxically to our homegrown stereotype of Fritz - for the most part friendly.


For a westerner post-soviet block states normally are more exotic.

I would agree to this. I had a great time in Krakow recently, soaking up the huge clash of cultures and architecture that is containe within the city, from the ancient Barbican to the Soviet town (the name of which I forget). Very few places in the world where you can stand and see medieval, baroque, neo-gothic and art deco buildings standing adjacent to each other.

[HollywoodMarine]

June-July! Wow... you are going to arrive during the peek tourist season. I don't think your wife is going to like the crowds. Of your list of cities, I've only been to Amsterdam, which I highly recommend. Had you taken your trip in late May, I would of met you in Dublin for drinks. Take a look at the website below for tips and guidance:

http://wikitravel.org/en/Main_Page

[pocoloco]

Since you got two weeks, don't stick just in one town/area or even one country.

Portugal, check both Lissabon and Porto, from Porto continue Galicia in Spain and go to Santiago de Compostela and Coruña. 15 days is more than enough divided for those four locations and you can include historical sites, beach holiday, trekking and shopping spree. Good night life and great food in all of those as well.

Then Budapest is highly recommended! There's lots of history, good shopping opportunities, great bars and clubs, excellent spas and beautiful parks for those romantic strolls with your missus. Maybe 15 days in Buda is just too much so rent a car and spend some days driving around Hungary, eg. lake Balaton area is good choice.

Istanbul is good choice but then, once again two weeks in one city might be too much. From Istanbul go to Greece or maybe Croatia, beautiful coastline there.

Or come to Finland :) . Rent a summer cabin for a week from the coast or even better, from Finnish lake district. Spend those nights in land of the Midnight sun. Visit Helsinki, Turku and some smaller towns.

[toki]

I'd choose Berlin for the history, culture, food and (probably most of all) the people. Most people seem happy to converse in English, especially if you at least try to ask if they speak English in your best German, and are - paradoxically to our homegrown stereotype of Fritz - for the most part friendly.

Berlin isn't particularly friendly by a Germans point of view. I guess your experience with language etc would be 'Germany' in general - unless you're in the absolute backwoods. Then again most "Berliners" are west german expats.
I like Berlin, but i would never call a trip there 'holiday' anyway. Maybe it's too similar to being home.

Go for Istanbul!
Reconsider Belgium. Antwerpen/Anvers, Brügge/Bruges if you like it LESS exotic.

[Henry's Fork]

You said "good food". ;)

So get rid of these on your list.

Edinburgh
Dublin
Amsterdam
Copenhagen
Oslo
Berlin

Try these instead, havent been to Istanbul, but i will take the others word for it.

Budapest
Lisbon
Istanbul

[toki]

You said "good food". ;)

So get rid of these on your list.

Edinburgh
Dublin
Amsterdam
Copenhagen
Oslo
Berlin

Try these instead, havent been to Istanbul, but i will take the others word for it.

Budapest
Lisbon
Istanbul

You can eat good in Amsterdam, Berlin etc.
Amsterdam is more than "FEBO".

[hsh2]

OK. The wife and I are looking at "exotic", romantic places (with good food) to go for our 20th. We seem to enjoy medium size cities with history, good walking, random places to wander and maybe a chance to hit the countryside for some hiking/walking.


Here's a pro tip which you will not see advertised at every street corner (thank god); go to the Italian speaking part of Switzerland aka Ticino.

There are around 10 Small-Medium sized cities, mountains for hiking are always near and the food is very similar to Northern Italian food. Lots of rich guys and writers have lived there in the past (and still do), our version of Tuscany or the Lago di Como so to speak.

On the following link you can see a list of cities in Ticino complete with events, addresses etc, everything you would possibly need is there:
http://www.myswitzerland.com/en/destinationen/orte/ferienorte-der-schweiz.html?region=012

I'm of course biased due to patriotic feelings but nonetheless I think you should really look into it. It is exotic, romantic, has mountains cities castles wineries palazzos and you will never see it flooded with tourists. I think it fits the bill perfectly.

[Henry's Fork]

;) You can eat good in every country technically, especially if you can afford it. Dont get me started on Chinese resturants in Germany during the 90's......puke city, and i tried over a half dozen of them. Anyway, who eats whiile on vacation in Germany? Too many loose women and good beer to consume.

Italy
Spain
France
Portugal
all PWN the rest of Europes cooking, just the way it is, its written in stone and in the bible and quran.

;)

[Difool]

Berlin isn't particularly friendly by a Germans point of view. I guess your experience with language etc would be 'Germany' in general - unless you're in the absolute backwoods. Then again most "Berliners" are west german expats.
I like Berlin, but i would never call a trip there 'holiday' anyway. Maybe it's too similar to being home.

Go for Istanbul!

First you say don't go to Berlin and you say go to Istanbul. I don't see much difference there. ;)

I for myself have much family abroad as well as some property. And because I don't have many free days my vacation is always more or less the same each year.

[toki]

First you say don't go to Berlin and you say go to Istanbul. I don't see much difference there. ;) Turks in Turkey are friendlier. Fact.

[Facaletz]

go to Chile or Haiti ,i heard is nice this time of year,....... seriously come in Romania to a city called Sibiu is a very,very beautifull city and near it is Sighisoara another historical and beautiful city

[Kaplanr]

Puleeeeze. I'm a Tel-Aviv - Rosh Pina kind of guy. Looks like I'll be in the Etzba at Sukkot with the boys from mahlaka, and then with the wife and daughter in May-June next year.

[Kaplanr]

June-July! Wow... you are going to arrive during the peek tourist season. I don't think your wife is going to like the crowds. Of your list of cities, I've only been to Amsterdam, which I highly recommend. Had you taken your trip in late May, I would of met you in Dublin for drinks. Take a look at the website below for tips and guidance:

http://wikitravel.org/en/Main_Page

We know, but it's all about timing. Our daughter will be away in camp, so it's the best window. Morocco was on the short list, but lost out for heat.

[PeterG]

I'm in pattaya,Thailand right now. having a blast, as usual. Did my first skydive yesterday, and it was a mindblowing rush. Truly a great experience. Lots of fun to be had here - highly recommended, well perhaps more if you're not married.

[ting]

OK. The wife and I are looking at "exotic", romantic places (with good food) to go for our 20th. Don't be fooled by exotic. We seem to enjoy medium size cities with history, good walking, random places to wander and maybe a chance to hit the countryside for some hiking/walking. She's borderline anti-social and I talk to anyone. Loved Prague, thought Venice was just OK. Here's the choices in no particular order. We're looking to gor for 10-15 days this June-July. What think you?

Edinburgh
Dublin
Budapest
Amsterdam
Lisbon
Istanbul
Copenhagen
Oslo
Berlin

Well I know Oslo quite well so here is my assessment:
Food
You can get any type you want. I love Italian and Chinese food.:lol: Norwegian cuisine is not well known, and I would guess there is a reason for that;-)

Medium sized cities with History
Yes, been there for a thousand years or so, tons of museums. About 500 000 people or so.

Good walking.
There are a bunch of parks and stuff almost everywhere.
Most famous is perhaps the Vigeland sculpture park.

There are a lot of places to go hiking. Oslo is kinda surrounded by mountains, and public policy is to make it easy for people to be active. Taking the subway up to Holmenkollen is a big hit with the tourists. And the new ski jump there should give you an amazing view.

Warning! Price. Don't expect anything cheap. Alcohol and cigarettes are extremely expensive.

Language. Speak English. Everybody understands it.

[v-twin]

Although Brasov, Romania (http://wikitravel.org/en/Brasov) can't really compete with Amsterdam, the coast of Spain or Istanbul, I'd give it a shot. Yeah, june-july is peak tourist season but it's got all sort of stuff. The city is pretty well renovated, the old historic city looks very well (fortified walls, the citadel, etc) and there are a bunch of great places to eat. Add to that the fact that it's surrounded by mountains (not too hot) and tiny villages with fortified churches and old fortresses and it's a pretty good deal. Not to mention cheap. There's also a pretty wicked waterpark and an adventure park if you feel adventurous.

Sibiu is over rated. It's tiny, crowded and aside from the city-center, there's nothing much to see.

Enjoy.

[HollywoodMarine]

I'm in pattaya,Thailand right now. having a blast, as usual. Did my first skydive yesterday, and it was a mindblowing rush. Truly a great experience. Lots of fun to be had here - highly recommended, well perhaps more if you're not married.

Could you elaborate more on this? ;)

[PeterG]

Come and i'll give you a tour! :-)

[Holycrusader]

Hmm, good topic... Put a Krakow on your list Kaplanr... But you propably been there already.

Now I have a question. This year it look like I will have a true holidays in june (lika a 7 or ten days without wife and kid).
Im from Warsaw, and for now my idea is to take a train and travel to Ukrainian Crimea. Is this place safe for alone tourist from Poland... Anybody have any experience with traveling alone on Ukraine Crimea? I will be on Crimea first time, and last time I was a bit longer on Ukraine was in Soviet times

Any advices? Other suggestions of vacation travel for single man (Im not a sextourist kind of guy)...

[Difool]

Hmm, good topic... Put a Krakow on your list Kaplanr... But you propably been there already.

Now I have a question. This year it look like I will have a true holidays in june (lika a 7 or ten days without wife and kid).
Im from Warsaw, and for now my idea is to take a train and travel to Ukrainian Crimea. Is this place safe for alone tourist from Poland... Anybody have any experience with traveling alone on Ukraine Crimea? I will be on Crimea first time, and last time I was a bit longer on Ukraine was in Soviet times

Any advices? Other suggestions of vacation travel for single man (Im not a sextourist kind of guy)...

Don't know about Ukrainian Crimea, but Russian populated Crimea is great. Do you prefer crowded or rather lonely beaches? Has it to be Eastern Europe? I like the Mediterranian Sea better. Water is clear and you got nice sandy beaches or rocky bays great for diving. Spanish Andalusia is also great.

[HollywoodMarine]

Come and i'll give you a tour! :-)

Booze, food, European women or locals? ;)

[DID]

South of France, Barcelona hopefully. Will post pictures, no ******* of course :-)

[DID]

Edinburgh
Dublin
Budapest
Amsterdam
Lisbon
Istanbul
Copenhagen
Oslo
Berlin

Edinburgh a good choice, I was there summer 2007 but dont expect to much sun :-(
I personnaly would choice Dublin, Lisbon or Paris and even Venice for the romantic touch. Berlin better for clubbin!

[IanSolo]

OK. The wife and I are looking at "exotic", romantic places (with good food) to go for our 20th. Don't be fooled by exotic. We seem to enjoy medium size cities with history, good walking, random places to wander and maybe a chance to hit the countryside for some hiking/walking. She's borderline anti-social and I talk to anyone. Loved Prague, thought Venice was just OK. Here's the choices in no particular order. We're looking to gor for 10-15 days this June-July. What think you?

Edinburgh
Dublin
Budapest
Amsterdam
Lisbon
Istanbul
Copenhagen
Oslo
Berlin


Hey, What about Italy? U r looking for romantic and good food, so........ Rome, Venezia, Costiera Amalfitana, Capri, All Toscana, the green Umbria....u have a large choice.

If u need tips tell me, I'll be happy to help u.

[1911-a1]

Booze, food, European women or locals? ;)

Thai prostitutes. There's a gazillion of them. There are also some eastern european chicks whoring in Thailand. I think they cost more though.

[Russianlynxy]

I truly loved Prague and Amsterdam...Two cities where you can see a lot of "old Europe" since they weren't really destroyed during WWII.

Although my city is great too :)

[HollywoodMarine]

Thai prostitutes. There's a gazillion of them. There are also some eastern european chicks whoring in Thailand. I think they cost more though.

Nah... I'm not feeling it with the Asian persuasion. I'm more of "If it ain't White, it ain't right." ;)