From jibbott at pei.sympatico.ca Fri Jul 3 21:57:49 2009 From: jibbott at pei.sympatico.ca (james ibbott) Date: Fri Jul 3 21:38:49 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] mary ann miller Message-ID: Subject: mary ann miller I have just been looking at the beautiful water colours and haiku that Mary Ann has posted on the cafe. i am not a member , so I can't post a comment there, but i wanted to give the "gang" a heads up. Check them out, they are truly beautiful. I don't believe I have ever seen such an evocative trip report. wow! Mary Ann if you read this, thank you. Nancy -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090703/c0597fb5/attachment.htm From GRAYGOOSE at aol.com Sat Jul 4 17:43:37 2009 From: GRAYGOOSE at aol.com (GRAYGOOSE@aol.com) Date: Sat Jul 4 17:24:39 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Archives? Message-ID: Is there a way to search the archives by subject that is not accessed by month. At one time, as I recall, one could enter a subject (i.e. Meiringen) and any E-mail to the chat list would come up regardless of date but in order of relevance. Has this choice been eliminated or am I missing a step? Nina **************A Good Credit Score is 700 or Above. See yours in just 2 easy steps! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1221323013x1201367230/aol?redir=http://www.freecreditreport.com/pm/default.aspx?sc=668072&hmpgID=62&bcd= JulystepsfooterNO62) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090704/b274a7b3/attachment.htm From chrandjyr at yahoo.com Sat Jul 4 18:08:13 2009 From: chrandjyr at yahoo.com (C&J Rudd) Date: Sat Jul 4 17:49:14 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] 1st Swiss Message-ID: <164988.26601.qm@web57505.mail.re1.yahoo.com> Wife & I have enjoyed several Austrian Untours and are considering one year after to Switzerland. Any thoughts from the seasoned travelers regarding a first time. Thanks and regards, CHRudd NE TN From haggart at moscow.com Sat Jul 4 18:22:00 2009 From: haggart at moscow.com (Pete and Maggie Haggart) Date: Sat Jul 4 18:03:08 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] 1st Swiss References: <164988.26601.qm@web57505.mail.re1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <6770FCB652C64CF6ADE6810C78EF80C7@HAGGARTLAPTOP> Try the Heartland UnTour - there are any number of fine apartments in the area - and you will never run out of things to do and see. We have been there three times and would go back in a minute! Pete Peter and Margaret Haggart haggart@moscow.com ----- Original Message ----- From: "C&J Rudd" To: "postchat" Sent: Saturday, July 04, 2009 3:08 PM Subject: [Norton AntiSpam] [Idyllchat] 1st Swiss > > Wife & I have enjoyed several Austrian Untours and are considering one > year after to Switzerland. Any thoughts from the seasoned travelers > regarding a first time. > > Thanks and regards, > > CHRudd > NE TN > > > > > -- > _______________________________________________ > This message was sent by IdyllChat. > To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > > Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > > Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: > http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > > Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: > http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html > To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, > visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat > From pandjking at sbcglobal.net Sat Jul 4 18:50:34 2009 From: pandjking at sbcglobal.net (Phillip King) Date: Sat Jul 4 18:31:31 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] 1st Swiss References: <164988.26601.qm@web57505.mail.re1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: We've done the Heartland 4 times (as well as Untours in six other locations that I can think of off the top of my head) and will go back again. When the train from Lucerne reaches Sarnen I begin to feel as though I am coming home, but, as familiar as it has become, we have never run out of new things to see and do. Last summer, we made an intergenerational Untour--us, our son and daughter and their families--to introduce them to one of our favorite spots in the world, and we all had a wonderful time (ages ran from 7 to 68). Train/bus transportation is a bit more convenient than in Austria, which makes it even easier to enjoy. Go for it! Jane Spring Lake, MI > > Wife & I have enjoyed several Austrian Untours and are considering one > year after to Switzerland. Any thoughts from the seasoned travelers > regarding a first time. > > Thanks and regards, > > CHRudd > NE TN > > > > > -- > _______________________________________________ > This message was sent by IdyllChat. > To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > > Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > > Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: > http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > > Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: > http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html > To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, > visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat From rbpmep at comcast.net Sat Jul 4 20:31:25 2009 From: rbpmep at comcast.net (Ronnie B. Peters) Date: Sat Jul 4 20:12:24 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] 1st Swiss In-Reply-To: <164988.26601.qm@web57505.mail.re1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Are you kidding?!--and I am--Switzerland (Heartland)is just about our favorite place in the world. You would think by that statement that we had, in fact, traveled the world--and we have not--but after our first Untour to Switzerland over a dozen years ago, we could hardly break away to try anywhere else. We have been to Austria with Idyll 5 times and loved that trip, as well as Rome with a bus tour and Venice several times on our own, but you will find Switzerland to be absolutely wonderful. Margaret (and Ron) Peters Rockville, MD Wife & I have enjoyed several Austrian Untours and are considering one year after to Switzerland. Any thoughts from the seasoned travelers regarding a first time. Thanks and regards, CHRudd NE TN -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090704/b14d9ea6/attachment.htm From evorce42 at gmail.com Sun Jul 5 06:43:17 2009 From: evorce42 at gmail.com (Elliott Vorce) Date: Sun Jul 5 06:24:19 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Re Switzerland Message-ID: <5e3cc7a50907050343p5cccca59h9d0f3654b349a8ad@mail.gmail.com> We are going to the Heartland for the 2nd time in Sept. Have been to the Oberland 10 times, also to Austria, Alsace, and England. The Oberland is our #1 place to go...one of the reasons being it is so much easier to get to places (Zermatt, Bern, S. Gallen, Basel, Fribourg, Geneva, Zurich, Lauterbrunnen, etc.), than from the HLand, Having said that, if you want a more "laid-back" 2 weeks, go to the HLand. It also has great hikes, proximity to Lucerne, the Hasliberg, Brienz and its lake, and other attractions oriented in a different direction than the B Oberland. Six of one, a half dozen of the other...going to Switzerland again is, for us, like going home. We can't tear ourselves away (although we areplanning now for Provence in 2010). No matter where you go in Switz, you just can't go wrong, no matter what. Elliott and Susan Vorce -- Elliott Vorce 119 Court Street Penn Yan, NY 14527 315-536-4969 315-447-8978 (cell) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090705/871c592d/attachment.htm From dj.stewart at comcast.net Mon Jul 6 10:02:08 2009 From: dj.stewart at comcast.net (D/J Stewart) Date: Mon Jul 6 09:43:08 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Tour de France Message-ID: Fellow Travelers, The Tour de France bicycle race is under way. If you would like to travel all around France while sitting in front of the TV for a few hours a day from now until July 26 (rest days on the 13th and 20th) you might consider watching VERSUS in the morning from 8:30-11:30 for live coverage or the evening repeat from 8:00 -11:00. Even if you don't give a hoot about cycling you will see wonderful helicopter views of the Alps, Pyrenees, countryside, villages, monuments, etc. This year the Tour goes clockwise around France starting in the south with stages through the Pyrenees upcoming and stages in the Alps occurring later on. The announcers, Phil Liggett and Paul Sherwin (morning coverage) cover their sport as well as any announcers in any sport. My 1995 version of Michelin map 989 (France) is already smokin'. An even better way to follow the race is to print out daily the "stage map" from the Tour website below http://www.letour.fr/2009/TDF/LIVE/us/300/etape_par_etape.html TV coverage on VERSUS can be found at http://www.versus.com/schedule Best wishes for a wonderful free tour of France. Happy Travels, Dick Stewart -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090706/b64ac26a/attachment.htm From WSLAZYK at luc.edu Mon Jul 6 10:25:01 2009 From: WSLAZYK at luc.edu (Walt Slazyk) Date: Mon Jul 6 10:06:34 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] 1st Swiss In-Reply-To: <164988.26601.qm@web57505.mail.re1.yahoo.com> References: <164988.26601.qm@web57505.mail.re1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <4A51C2ED.984F.0097.3@luc.edu> In 2007, we did the Ticino-Heartland Sampler with one week in Locarno and another week in Giswil. If you don't mind re-locating after a week, we thought it was a great way to see two very different sides of Switzerland. Walt Slazyk Downers Grove, IL >>> C&J Rudd 7/4/2009 5:08 PM >>> Wife & I have enjoyed several Austrian Untours and are considering one year after to Switzerland. Any thoughts from the seasoned travelers regarding a first time. Thanks and regards, CHRudd NE TN -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090706/8d32f618/attachment-0001.htm From joanherriges at live.com Tue Jul 7 11:19:27 2009 From: joanherriges at live.com (Joan Herriges) Date: Tue Jul 7 11:00:28 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Tour de France In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hi Dick: Watching with great interest. albeit much earlier here on the west coast! Reruns aren't the same. I have so many favorites on different teams this year. Think I mentioned that Leipheimer is from Santa Rosa, a short distance away. I enjoy the consistency of big George H. Naturally I cheer for Swiss favorite Fabian C., and always for Lance Armstrong, and the other U.S. boys. Seems the Brits have a good chance this year. Your comments regarding the announcers are spot on! Just listening to their running coverage is worth getting up at 5:30am. And the stage map is wonderful, thanks for keeping the Idyll group informed. Joan. From: D/J Stewart Sent: Monday, July 06, 2009 7:02 AM To: Idyllchat Subject: [Idyllchat] Tour de France Fellow Travelers, The Tour de France bicycle race is under way. If you would like to travel all around France while sitting in front of the TV for a few hours a day from now until July 26 (rest days on the 13th and 20th) you might consider watching VERSUS in the morning from 8:30-11:30 for live coverage or the evening repeat from 8:00 -11:00. Even if you don't give a hoot about cycling you will see wonderful helicopter views of the Alps, Pyrenees, countryside, villages, monuments, etc. This year the Tour goes clockwise around France starting in the south with stages through the Pyrenees upcoming and stages in the Alps occurring later on. The announcers, Phil Liggett and Paul Sherwin (morning coverage) cover their sport as well as any announcers in any sport. My 1995 version of Michelin map 989 (France) is already smokin'. An even better way to follow the race is to print out daily the "stage map" from the Tour website below http://www.letour.fr/2009/TDF/LIVE/us/300/etape_par_etape.html TV coverage on VERSUS can be found at http://www.versus.com/schedule Best wishes for a wonderful free tour of France. Happy Travels, Dick Stewart -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090707/798d8f1d/attachment.htm From spannrm at cableone.net Fri Jul 17 18:04:51 2009 From: spannrm at cableone.net (Michele Spann) Date: Fri Jul 17 17:45:36 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Galande - Paris Message-ID: <64FC98174AFD40EF97FD77523F2BFDEF@spannrmcablePC> We would like to hear from anyone who has stayed in Galande apartment in Paris this year. Galande is new this year so there are no trip logs etc. We would like information on the neighborhood cafes, stores (especially a boulangerie) etc.as well as anything else of interest in the apartment or out. Thank you, Michele -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090717/61b52d20/attachment.htm From pandjking at sbcglobal.net Fri Jul 17 18:42:01 2009 From: pandjking at sbcglobal.net (Phillip King) Date: Fri Jul 17 18:22:44 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Galande - Paris References: <64FC98174AFD40EF97FD77523F2BFDEF@spannrmcablePC> Message-ID: <66328FBB2BB647B08C72A8A5F144F949@phil6161780101> Michelle, Don't know a thing about your apartment, but thought I'd cue you in to Les Pages Jaunes, the on-line yellow pages for Paris. If you go there and have the address of your apartment, you can see the apartment building and can scan up and down and across the street. It really is a neat website. Paris is one of our very favorite destinations. If you are doing your apartment reservations through Untours, I'm sure you'll be pleased. Untours does an excellent job of finding nice apartments in interesting neighborhoods. We have done 15 Untours all over Europe and have never had a bad location or apartment. Enjoy your trip. Phil King Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Michele Spann To: idyllchat@lists.untours.com Sent: Friday, July 17, 2009 6:04 PM Subject: [Idyllchat] Galande - Paris We would like to hear from anyone who has stayed in Galande apartment in Paris this year. Galande is new this year so there are no trip logs etc. We would like information on the neighborhood cafes, stores (especially a boulangerie) etc.as well as anything else of interest in the apartment or out. Thank you, Michele ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090717/e34b77b4/attachment.htm From aldorudy at sbcglobal.net Sun Jul 19 16:42:04 2009 From: aldorudy at sbcglobal.net (alan rudolph) Date: Sun Jul 19 16:22:40 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] A funny request Message-ID: <678358.29235.qm@web83701.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> My friend and I came back from France last year and we think it was on that trip that we saw a plate ( in a few pottery/china shops) that had 3 women in silhouette on it.? She thinks the women had on colorful dresses, I seem to remember they were in black and the plate was a tannish color background.? There was a story that went with the 3 women but we can't remember the story either!!!? We are now kicking ourselves for not buying the plate over there as we both really want one now.? Does anyone recall the story and which country it came from ( it was either France or Italy )?? I have gone on the internet but cannot come up with anything the comes close to the plate I remember.? I know I haven't given many details but if you know the women on the plate and the story, I'm sure you know what I am talking about:)? Thanks for any info you might have. ? Donna Michigan -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090719/df99891c/attachment.htm From joanherriges at live.com Sun Jul 19 20:29:30 2009 From: joanherriges at live.com (Joan Herriges) Date: Sun Jul 19 20:10:07 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] A funny request In-Reply-To: <678358.29235.qm@web83701.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> References: <678358.29235.qm@web83701.mail.sp1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: Hi Donna: Try this website and contact them with the description. http://www.shoppalstores.com/ddktt/index.cfm/fa/home.main This is a wonderful source for finding unusual plates. And, are you aware that silhouette china/pottery is very popular now? The tan pottery that you mention is found here and there on the web. Oh the things we leave behind and wish we had purchased them Don't leave anything behind! Good luck. Joan. From: alan rudolph Sent: Sunday, July 19, 2009 1:42 PM To: Untours Subject: [Idyllchat] A funny request My friend and I came back from France last year and we think it was on that trip that we saw a plate ( in a few pottery/china shops) that had 3 women in silhouette on it. She thinks the women had on colorful dresses, I seem to remember they were in black and the plate was a tannish color background. There was a story that went with the 3 women but we can't remember the story either!!! We are now kicking ourselves for not buying the plate over there as we both really want one now. Does anyone recall the story and which country it came from ( it was either France or Italy )? I have gone on the internet but cannot come up with anything the comes close to the plate I remember. I know I haven't given many details but if you know the women on the plate and the story, I'm sure you know what I am talking about:) Thanks for any info you might have. Donna Michigan -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090719/d59eb8e4/attachment.htm From Paulmickgardiner at aol.com Tue Jul 21 17:04:25 2009 From: Paulmickgardiner at aol.com (Paulmickgardiner@aol.com) Date: Tue Jul 21 16:45:26 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Austrian untour Message-ID: My apologies to all for not replying sooner. I thank everyone for their ideas. We did book a 2 week untour and we leave on Sept.1. Looking forward to it, tho I know that it will never compare to Switzerland, our favorite place to vacation. We have friends who live in Munich, and they have invited us for dinner. Since it is a long trip, I am hoping to change that to a late lunch. We are also going to visit the Chiemsee. Passed it on the train about 10 years ago and I always wanted to explore the lake. Has anyone take the train to Slovenia? That sounds different and might make a nice rainy day excursion. I will never forget the day we woke to new snow on the mountains in late May.It was cold and rainy in Thun, so we hopped on the train to Stresa where it was 90 degrees! Back in Thun that night, it was still very cold and damp. We are looking forward to pasties, ice cream and European coffee! Michaela **************A Good Credit Score is 700 or Above. See yours in just 2 easy steps! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1221823310x1201398722/aol?redir=http://www.freecreditreport.com/pm/default.aspx?sc=668072&hmpgID=62&bcd= JulystepsfooterNO62) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090721/2a31814b/attachment.htm From fgoldfarb at gmail.com Tue Jul 21 17:50:31 2009 From: fgoldfarb at gmail.com (Florence Goldfarb) Date: Tue Jul 21 17:31:06 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Austrian untour In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: I have taken the train from Venice to Slovenia, via Trieste. If I remember correctly it was about an 8 hour trip. I was with two friends and the ride was fine. If you haven't been to Slovenia, I highly recommend it. Ljubljana is a small and lovely city and Lake Bled is beautiful. The mountains near the Austrian border are great, as is the national park there. The caves are also worth visiting. I've been to Slovenia twice, and I would certainly go again. Florence On Tue, Jul 21, 2009 at 5:04 PM, wrote: > My apologies to all for not replying sooner. I thank everyone for their > ideas. We did book a 2 week untour and we leave on Sept.1. Looking forward > to it, tho I know that it will never compare to Switzerland, our favorite > place to vacation. We have friends who live in Munich, and they have invited > us for dinner. Since it is a long trip, I am hoping to change that to a late > lunch. > > We are also going to visit the Chiemsee. Passed it on the train about 10 > years ago and I always wanted to explore the lake. > > Has anyone take the train to Slovenia? That sounds different and might make > a nice rainy day excursion. I will never forget the day we woke to new snow > on the mountains in late May.It was cold and rainy in Thun, so we hopped on > the train to Stresa where it was 90 degrees! Back in Thun that night, it > was still very cold and damp. > > We are looking forward to pasties, ice cream and European coffee! > > Michaela > > ------------------------------ > *A Good Credit Score is 700 or Above. See yours in just 2 easy steps! > * > > -- > _______________________________________________ > This message was sent by IdyllChat. > To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > > Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > > Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: > http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > > Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: > http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html > To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, > visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat > -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090721/107441eb/attachment-0001.htm From rbpmep at comcast.net Tue Jul 21 20:14:43 2009 From: rbpmep at comcast.net (Ronnie B. Peters) Date: Tue Jul 21 19:55:22 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Austrian untour In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <5507B661A5A746B6A86F83C6A6F4FEB2@peters211483e3> Even though Switzerland may be hard to beat for scenery, hiking/walking and just forgetting the cares of the world left behind for a week or two, you will not be disappointed in Austria which also has much to offer in the way of beauty, colorful and boisterous festivals plus a warm reception by the people. Margaret Peters .Looking forward to it (an Untour to Austria), tho I know that it will never compare to Switzerland, our favorite place to vacation. We are looking forward to pasties, ice cream and European coffee! Michaela -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090721/ea212fde/attachment.htm From rbpmep at comcast.net Tue Jul 21 20:18:35 2009 From: rbpmep at comcast.net (Ronnie B. Peters) Date: Tue Jul 21 19:59:14 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Austrian untour Message-ID: <58739EA69C0740B48861A759EA46E22E@peters211483e3> Skipped content of type multipart/alternative-------------- next part -------------- -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat From chrandjyr at yahoo.com Sun Jul 26 18:30:16 2009 From: chrandjyr at yahoo.com (C&J Rudd) Date: Sun Jul 26 18:10:42 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Werfen or Pfarrwerfen Message-ID: <334223.73545.qm@web57511.mail.re1.yahoo.com> Greetings, Preparing to plan; curious if any of you have any thoughts or preferences for Werfen or Pfarrwerfen? Would appreciate any feedback. Regards, CHR in Greenevile, TN From dtrees at hughes.net Sun Jul 26 19:32:21 2009 From: dtrees at hughes.net (Debra Trees) Date: Sun Jul 26 19:13:10 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Werfen or Pfarrwerfen In-Reply-To: <334223.73545.qm@web57511.mail.re1.yahoo.com> References: <334223.73545.qm@web57511.mail.re1.yahoo.com> Message-ID: <881E7E3B6D4544D5821EFBC85BE32ED4@dtreesPC> We stayed in Werfen last summer. It is a delightful village with 3-5 restaurants to choose from for dinner, all were good and just a skip from the apartment. It has a great grocery store which is much larger than it appears from the front window. The town is very easy to get to from Salzburg. The Burgmueller apartment was very comfortable, roomy, bright, cheerful and a wonderful location. Getting Michaela Burgmueller as a hostess is a huge plus. We had dinner in Pfarrwerfen, I believe, one night and drove through it on our way to other places but I don't have any personal experience with it. I remember they were VERY close together. I'm sure someone else will respond with more info about Pfarrwerfen. We had some lovely views from our apartment. I think there are some pics of Werfen on Untours Cafe. If not, I'll post a few. I'd stay in Werfen again without hesitation but again, I don't know anything about Pfarrwerfen. ----- Original Message ----- From: "C&J Rudd" To: "postchat" Sent: Sunday, July 26, 2009 5:30 PM Subject: [Idyllchat] Werfen or Pfarrwerfen > > Greetings, > Preparing to plan; curious if any of you have any thoughts or preferences > for Werfen or Pfarrwerfen? > Would appreciate any feedback. > Regards, > CHR in Greenevile, TN > > > > > -- > _______________________________________________ > This message was sent by IdyllChat. > To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > > Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > > Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: > http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > > Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: > http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html > To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, > visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat > From djbeck at grandecom.net Sun Jul 26 22:19:31 2009 From: djbeck at grandecom.net (Donna Beck) Date: Sun Jul 26 21:59:59 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Prague Message-ID: <3B6F21325154480E8E06AD74EE944E1C@user> We are contemplating spending two weeks in Prague in August 2010 and are wondering what experiences others have had at this time of year. Frommers just came out with an article stating that in warm-weather months, Prague is something of a disappointment - unlike autumn when the city is very pleasant. It becomes inundated with tourists and becomes pricey beyond what you would expect. Feel free to e-mail me directly. Thanks. Donna B. . -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090726/1e0eca16/attachment.htm From enhooker at hotmail.com Mon Jul 27 07:22:46 2009 From: enhooker at hotmail.com (Elaine Hooker) Date: Mon Jul 27 07:03:13 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Prague In-Reply-To: <3B6F21325154480E8E06AD74EE944E1C@user> References: <3B6F21325154480E8E06AD74EE944E1C@user> Message-ID: We're curious, too -- planning a spring trip. If you don't post to entire list, please mark me in when you respond to Donna. Thanks. Elaine Jackson enhooker@hotmail.com From: djbeck@grandecom.net To: idyllchat@lists.untours.com Date: Sun, 26 Jul 2009 21:19:31 -0500 Subject: [Idyllchat] Prague We are contemplating spending two weeks in Prague in August 2010 and are wondering what experiences others have had at this time of year. Frommers just came out with an article stating that in warm-weather months, Prague is something of a disappointment - unlike autumn when the city is very pleasant. It becomes inundated with tourists and becomes pricey beyond what you would expect. Feel free to e-mail me directly. Thanks. Donna B. . -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/cc06edb5/attachment-0001.htm From KAllen224 at ec.rr.com Mon Jul 27 13:08:25 2009 From: KAllen224 at ec.rr.com (Karl Allen) Date: Mon Jul 27 12:48:47 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Leasing a car in Europe In-Reply-To: <44AED146.000013.02124@HAGGART> References: <5.2.1.1.0.20060707133913.01bbc618@nospam.rev.net> <44AED146.000013.02124@HAGGART> Message-ID: Does anyone out there have experience in leasing a car in Europe? -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/18c3cc8c/attachment.htm From GRAYGOOSE at aol.com Mon Jul 27 14:15:03 2009 From: GRAYGOOSE at aol.com (GRAYGOOSE@aol.com) Date: Mon Jul 27 13:55:42 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Prague Message-ID: Donna, We had our Untour experience in Prague in 1999 in late June and I will say most days were HOT, very hot, although on many of the days we had heavy rain that lasted only a short while in the late afternoon that did help to cool things down a bit. We stayed in the Hastalka apartment in the old Jewish quarter and the building was very, very old with stone walls at least a foot thick which kept the apartment delightfully cool in the heat of the day.The crowds were terrible as so many Europeans were visiting the once Commie town that had been somewhat closed off to them. But we didn't let either of those factors stop us from sightseeing. The museums were comfortable to be in and there were a great number of them. (Don't miss the Alphonse Mucha museum if you like Art Nouveau. It's located across the street from the pricey Palace Hotel). We did take an overnight trip to Cezky Krumlov which, at that time, was not recognized as a destination by Untours. However, I think it may be now. We went by bus directly to the town from Prague but there are other bus connections where one changes buses, which we did on our return with no problem. There are also trains but I believe the station is remote from the town. I was able to make hotel reservations before we left on the Internet through that cities tourist info web site. The new city web site differs from the one I used but I am sure all the info needed is there. _http://www.ckrumlov.info/docs/en/kaktualita.xml_ (http://www.ckrumlov.info/docs/en/kaktualita.xml) We stayed at the Pension Barbakan which is just at the entrance to the old town, a short distance from the bus station and a very close walk to the old town. We found it just right and at that time more than reasonable. They had a great breakfast which was included and downstairs there was a grotto like restaurant where we had dinner the first night. The pension sits right on a bank above the Vlatava river and has a nice terrace overshadowed by trees where one can enjoy a lovely glass of wine. Before we left home I made contact , through the town info center, for a guide to take us on a half day tour about the old town and castle. His name was Bryce Belcher, and American ex-pat who resided there with his Czech wife. (He had also been Madeline Albright's guide when she visited). I don't know if he is still available after these 10 years but the E-Mail address he had at that time was: _bryce@ck.ipex.cz_ (mailto:bryce@ck.ipex.cz) I do recommend a guide to show you the areas not in the guide books and there are a number of places that we saw that we would have missed had we not had Bryce to show them to us. Of course, a lot of this has probably been printed in guide books by now. You can get info re guides also from the web site. As for Prague itself, it's beautiful and I rank it with Budapest as the most beautiful city we have seen in Europe. Do try to get to the Dolly Bell restaurant for a meal. It is a local restaurant on the edge of the city located in Vysherad, available by tram. It is MOST unusual and I read about it in Frommer's. I wont reveal the secret to it but you can probably find out about it as I did..if it still exists after 10 years. When we were there prices were so ridiculously low by our American standards. We took advantage of that to purchase quite a bit of crystal. I suppose that will be one of the changes you will find. I know that a lot of changes must have come about in these past ten years but I am sure nothing old has changed and it still has it's charms. If you can delay your trip until early fall that might be the best time to go but, if not, don't scratch the city off your list. It is worth a visit at any time. Let me know if I can help with any other info. Fondly, Nina Snyder (http://www.ckrumlov.info/docs/en/kaktualita.xml) In a message dated 7/26/2009 7:19:55 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time, djbeck@grandecom.net writes: We are contemplating spending two weeks in Prague in August 2010 and are wondering what experiences others have had at this time of year. Frommers just came out with an article stating that in warm-weather months, Prague is something of a disappointment - unlike autumn when the city is very pleasant. It becomes inundated with tourists and becomes pricey beyond what you would expect. Feel free to e-mail me directly. Thanks. Donna B. . -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat **************A bad credit score is 600 & below. Checking won't affect your score. See now! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1221823322x1201398723/aol?redir=http://www.freecreditreport.com/pm/default.aspx?sc=668072&hmpgI D=62&bcd=JulyBadfooterNO62) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/a2d02c14/attachment.htm From slaceplace at gmail.com Mon Jul 27 19:04:19 2009 From: slaceplace at gmail.com (Susan Lacy) Date: Mon Jul 27 18:44:41 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Message-ID: Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for 10 days. Thanks in advance for your tips! Susan -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/a3d74557/attachment.htm From jruch39 at zoominternet.net Mon Jul 27 19:41:29 2009 From: jruch39 at zoominternet.net (John Ruch) Date: Mon Jul 27 19:22:02 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] luggage 2nd piece Message-ID: We like to travel internationally on carry-on luggage basis only, nothing checked. Airlines allow 2nd piece for laptop/electronics/handbag/whatever. I'm considering piece 20X13X9 inches as 2nd piece. That's smaller than allowed primary bag, but would I be pushing airlines' 2nd bag policies too far? What's largest bag Idyll folks have gotten away with as 2nd item? John Ruch -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/3a1c6877/attachment.htm From rrcrum1 at gmail.com Mon Jul 27 20:01:31 2009 From: rrcrum1 at gmail.com (Russell Crum) Date: Mon Jul 27 19:42:00 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Susan, That sort of question surfaces here periodically. Most credit card banks now are adding 3% on for foreign transactions. As irritating at that is, relative to the cost of a major trip, it shouldn't be a deal breaker if using a credit card is the most comfortable thing for you to do, in my opinion anyway. Our personal choice for the last two or three years has been to switch to mostly cash. I still use a credit card if a purchase is large enough to run our cash supply too low. You do have a daily limit on ATM withdrawals from your bank account. Sometimes a CC is just the most convenient. We also use strictly ATM machines for our cash supply, other than 60-70 Euro that we keep on hand from trip to trip just so we don't land in Europe with no local currency. I haven't used travelers checks in over ten years now and don't like to go with a huge cache of US currency to exchange either. The ATMs have never failed me in any of the European countries, China, Egypt or Jordan. We do take a couple hundred dollars in US currency just as a precaution which could always be exchanged if needed. So far, we have never had to do that. Whatever your choices, don't forget to inform you bank(s) that issued your credit card(s) and ATM card(s) which countries you will be traveling in and when. Otherwise they have nasty habits of putting surprise holds on your accounts due to "suspicious" activity which can get to be a real pain in the rear. Also, be aware that from a European ATM cash withdrawals will be from your "primary" bank account, which is usually your checking account if you have both a savings and checking type accounts. If you have never used a foreign ATM, read the screen carefully because things may be a bit different from what you are used to. Also, be sure you have a four digit numeric PIN. Decide what you want are most comfortable with and have fun! Russ On Jul 27, 2009, at 7:04 PM, Susan Lacy wrote: > Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while > traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a > credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an > additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to > use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for > 10 days. > > Thanks in advance for your tips! > > Susan > -- > _______________________________________________ > This message was sent by IdyllChat. > To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > > Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > > Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > > Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html > To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause > delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat Russ Crum rrcrum1@gmail.com From rrcrum1 at gmail.com Mon Jul 27 20:06:51 2009 From: rrcrum1 at gmail.com (Russell Crum) Date: Mon Jul 27 19:47:17 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] luggage 2nd piece In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: We also have been proponents of carry on only for most trips. Our second bag, however, has only been a day pack size. Our current favorite is the Rick Steves Civita Day Pack, which holds an incredible amount, but will comfortably fit under the seat in front of us. My feeling is that even if you managed to get your second bag of the size you cite past the airline folks, you certainly won't make any friends with the other passengers. I for one would probably complain to the flight attendants if your second bag of that size made it so I could not find room for my own carry on bag! Russ On Jul 27, 2009, at 7:41 PM, John Ruch wrote: > We like to travel internationally on carry-on luggage basis only, > nothing checked. Airlines allow 2nd piece for laptop/electronics/ > handbag/whatever. I'm considering piece 20X13X9 inches as 2nd piece. > That's smaller than allowed primary bag, but would I be pushing > airlines' 2nd bag policies too far? What's largest bag Idyll folks > have gotten away with as 2nd item? > > John Ruch > -- > _______________________________________________ > This message was sent by IdyllChat. > To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > > Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > > Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > > Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html > To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause > delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat Russ Crum rrcrum1@gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/63026921/attachment.htm From enhooker at hotmail.com Mon Jul 27 20:20:24 2009 From: enhooker at hotmail.com (Elaine Hooker) Date: Mon Jul 27 20:00:47 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] luggage 2nd piece In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: American Airlines' Web site says personal item must not exceed 36 inches (length plus width plus height). I have a companion to my Samsonite carry-on that measures about 17 by 15 by 7, or 39 inches if you include the wheels in the measurement, which technically you're supposed to it. I have used that as my personal bag (into which I stick a small purse so I don't have three bags), flying both domestically and internationally -- though not yet with AA. I'm hoping it works. Elaine Jackson From: jruch39@zoominternet.net To: idyllchat@lists.untours.com Date: Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:41:29 -0400 Subject: [Idyllchat] luggage 2nd piece We like to travel internationally on carry-on luggage basis only, nothing checked. Airlines allow 2nd piece for laptop/electronics/handbag/whatever. I'm considering piece 20X13X9 inches as 2nd piece. That's smaller than allowed primary bag, but would I be pushing airlines' 2nd bag policies too far? What's largest bag Idyll folks have gotten away with as 2nd item? John Ruch -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/db0573ce/attachment-0001.htm From sabre47 at aol.com Mon Jul 27 20:42:12 2009 From: sabre47 at aol.com (sabre47@aol.com) Date: Mon Jul 27 20:22:52 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] luggage 2nd piece In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: <8CBDD33618EAABB-12CC-2720@WEBMAIL-MY16.sysops.aol.com> John, I answered once, but not sure it went through.? From the other postings it looks like you can carry two bags, but on Brit Air in August, 2007,I had a backpack and a small purse.? They would not let me carry both on.? Luckily I was able to cram? my purse into my backpack.? I don't know what the difference is Deborah -----Original Message----- From: John Ruch To: idyllchat@lists.untours.com Sent: Mon, Jul 27, 2009 4:41 pm Subject: [Idyllchat] luggage 2nd piece We like to travel internationally on carry-on luggage basis only, nothing checked. Airlines allow 2nd piece for laptop/electronics/handbag/whatever. I'm considering piece 20X13X9 inches as 2nd piece. That's?smaller than allowed primary bag, but would?I be pushing airlines' 2nd bag policies too far??What's largest bag Idyll?folks have gotten away with as 2nd item? ? John Ruch?? -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/a127a2a2/attachment.htm From joanherriges at live.com Mon Jul 27 21:00:59 2009 From: joanherriges at live.com (Joan Herriges) Date: Mon Jul 27 20:41:24 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Hi Susan: Russ sums it up nicely. Cash. ATM's abound. We did a test four years ago, charging an item to see the difference (cash far better).. Some shops actually give you a discount for cash--this happened three times on our visit to Switzerland in May/June. So, not only did we beat the surcharge, but a nice discount! Happy travels. Joan. From: Susan Lacy Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 4:04 PM To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Subject: [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for 10 days. Thanks in advance for your tips! Susan -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/bb4300c2/attachment.htm From millirons1968 at verizon.net Mon Jul 27 21:40:23 2009 From: millirons1968 at verizon.net (Eric and Sue) Date: Mon Jul 27 21:20:53 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] luggage 2nd piece Message-ID: <1935189492.2138025.1248745223843.JavaMail.root@vms228.mailsrvcs.net> An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/df47b621/attachment.htm From djbeck at grandecom.net Mon Jul 27 22:52:48 2009 From: djbeck at grandecom.net (Donna Beck) Date: Mon Jul 27 22:33:11 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] 2nd piece of carry-on Message-ID: <47E7DF402BB548F7940BA9194E2407E5@user> British Airways will only allow one carry-on and if it is a purse, that is it. So far, other carriers we have used have allowed two. Last I heard, AA allowed a total of 45" - width - depth and height. Donna B. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090727/1799b044/attachment.htm From cyrreb at comcast.net Tue Jul 28 07:06:27 2009 From: cyrreb at comcast.net (cyrreb@comcast.net) Date: Tue Jul 28 06:46:48 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] 2nd piece of carry-on In-Reply-To: <1291961447.6161621248778736309.JavaMail.root@sz0023a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Message-ID: <869108954.6163481248779187629.JavaMail.root@sz0023a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> It is true that BA used to allow just one carryon, but that is no longer the case.? I just flew BA (economy class) in June and was allowed one carry-on suitcase (not to exceed 22x18x10) and one personal item -- purse, smaller tote, laptop, etc.? BA has eliminated the weight restriction for carry-ons -- they only require that you be able to get your bag into the overhead bin without assistance.? You can confirm all this info at their website under "hand baggage allowance". I think BA is the only one who has eliminated the weight restriction.? Personally, I find the challenge of traveling with a bag weighing in at 15 pounds?or less a supreme challenge and one that I enjoy.? I do manage to do it, but it requires that I give up a wheeled bag.? Surprise!? When?I travel that lightly, I don't need wheels on my bag. At any rate, BA is more generous than the foreign carriers when it comes to their hand baggage allowance.? That said, I find their economy seats quite uncomfortable. I agree that one needs to be careful in trying to push the limit on the size restrictions because that can come back to bite you in several ways, none of them pleasant. Good luck. Christine in Massachusetts ----- Original Message ----- From: "Donna Beck" To: idyllchat@lists.untours.com Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 10:52:48 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern Subject: [Idyllchat] 2nd piece of carry-on British Airways will only allow one carry-on and if it is a purse, that is it.?? So far, other carriers we have used have allowed two.? Last I heard, AA allowed a total of 45" - width - depth and height. Donna B. -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090728/82062cf3/attachment.htm From r-bole at neiu.edu Tue Jul 28 09:03:27 2009 From: r-bole at neiu.edu (Bole, Renee) Date: Tue Jul 28 08:43:50 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] luggage 2nd piece In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <9B0B0B8FF2328E48930D4B6273C1B26104E3B8C0@EXNODE1.univ.neiu.edu> Hi, Just to jump in here. My experience has been that you can do everything right to carry-on and you might still be forced to check. What can you do? It happened to me in Rome and Budapest. And of course, Lufthansa lost it somewhere from Rome to Chicago. My stance is always pack so little that you can carry-on. It makes travel so much more enjoyable and liberating to be as unencumbered as possible. And you can still look tres chic. On my last trip- to Prague and a river cruise down the Danube to Salzburg, Vienna and Budapest some of the women on the tour were shipping some of their belongings home because they brought too much! Have fun, keep it simple, be free. Renee in Chicago Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 7:20 PM To: jruch39@zoominternet.net; idyllchat@lists.untours.com Subject: RE: [Idyllchat] luggage 2nd piece American Airlines' Web site says personal item must not exceed 36 inches (length plus width plus height). I have a companion to my Samsonite carry-on that measures about 17 by 15 by 7, or 39 inches if you include the wheels in the measurement, which technically you're supposed to it. I have used that as my personal bag (into which I stick a small purse so I don't have three bags), flying both domestically and internationally -- though not yet with AA. I'm hoping it works. Elaine Jackson ________________________________ From: jruch39@zoominternet.net To: idyllchat@lists.untours.com Date: Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:41:29 -0400 Subject: [Idyllchat] luggage 2nd piece We like to travel internationally on carry-on luggage basis only, nothing checked. Airlines allow 2nd piece for laptop/electronics/handbag/whatever. I'm considering piece 20X13X9 inches as 2nd piece. That's smaller than allowed primary bag, but would I be pushing airlines' 2nd bag policies too far? What's largest bag Idyll folks have gotten away with as 2nd item? John Ruch -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090728/768d7d4f/attachment.htm From slaceplace at gmail.com Tue Jul 28 09:34:14 2009 From: slaceplace at gmail.com (Susan Lacy) Date: Tue Jul 28 09:14:53 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: References: Message-ID: Thanks so much for your thoughts - this helps! Susan On Mon, Jul 27, 2009 at 9:00 PM, Joan Herriges wrote: > Hi Susan: Russ sums it up nicely. Cash. ATM's abound. We did a test > four years ago, charging an item to see the difference (cash far better).. > Some shops actually give you a discount for cash--this happened three times > on our visit to Switzerland in May/June. So, not only did we beat the > surcharge, but a nice discount! Happy travels. Joan. > > > *From:* Susan Lacy > *Sent:* Monday, July 27, 2009 4:04 PM > *To:* IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > *Subject:* [Idyllchat] Paris and Money > > Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in > Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I > understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for > foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to > Paris the end of September for 10 days. > > Thanks in advance for your tips! > > Susan > > ------------------------------ > > -- > _______________________________________________ > This message was sent by IdyllChat. > To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > > Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > > Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: > http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > > Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: > http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html > To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, > visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat > > -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090728/00925189/attachment-0001.htm From enhooker at hotmail.com Tue Jul 28 09:48:47 2009 From: enhooker at hotmail.com (Elaine Hooker) Date: Tue Jul 28 09:29:08 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] 2nd piece of carry-on In-Reply-To: <869108954.6163481248779187629.JavaMail.root@sz0023a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> References: <1291961447.6161621248778736309.JavaMail.root@sz0023a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> <869108954.6163481248779187629.JavaMail.root@sz0023a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net> Message-ID: This is a very helpful discussion. I hadn't been aware that size and weight restrictions vary by airline, as does the tendency for enforcement. Thanks to all for the information and the tips. Elaine Jackson Date: Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:06:27 +0000 From: cyrreb@comcast.net To: djbeck@grandecom.net Subject: Re: [Idyllchat] 2nd piece of carry-on CC: idyllchat@lists.untours.com It is true that BA used to allow just one carryon, but that is no longer the case. I just flew BA (economy class) in June and was allowed one carry-on suitcase (not to exceed 22x18x10) and one personal item -- purse, smaller tote, laptop, etc. BA has eliminated the weight restriction for carry-ons -- they only require that you be able to get your bag into the overhead bin without assistance. You can confirm all this info at their website under "hand baggage allowance". I think BA is the only one who has eliminated the weight restriction. Personally, I find the challenge of traveling with a bag weighing in at 15 pounds or less a supreme challenge and one that I enjoy. I do manage to do it, but it requires that I give up a wheeled bag. Surprise! When I travel that lightly, I don't need wheels on my bag. At any rate, BA is more generous than the foreign carriers when it comes to their hand baggage allowance. That said, I find their economy seats quite uncomfortable. I agree that one needs to be careful in trying to push the limit on the size restrictions because that can come back to bite you in several ways, none of them pleasant. Good luck. Christine in Massachusetts ----- Original Message ----- From: "Donna Beck" To: idyllchat@lists.untours.com Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 10:52:48 PM GMT -05:00 US/Canada Eastern Subject: [Idyllchat] 2nd piece of carry-on British Airways will only allow one carry-on and if it is a purse, that is it. So far, other carriers we have used have allowed two. Last I heard, AA allowed a total of 45" - width - depth and height. Donna B. -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090728/e35683ec/attachment.htm From edwj32 at gmail.com Tue Jul 28 14:46:05 2009 From: edwj32 at gmail.com (ewj) Date: Tue Jul 28 14:26:49 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Carry on Bags Message-ID: <2ee0fe420907281146k72b070aet6a77396569a36efc@mail.gmail.com> After several trips with too much luggage we finally learned to get by with a proper carry-on that most if not all international air lines would accept and one that would not offend other passengers. It had a small auxiliary bag that easily fits under the seat. We don't carry a laptop. This has worked for the last ten or twelve trips. Regretfully, the bags are gathering dust these days. Ed and Lola Jose -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090728/e7868f44/attachment.htm From pandjking at sbcglobal.net Tue Jul 28 16:02:16 2009 From: pandjking at sbcglobal.net (Phillip King) Date: Tue Jul 28 15:42:32 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money References: Message-ID: <14BADF2767D34867A34BC3030649FBCF@phil6161780101> Susan, Ditto to what Russ Crum and Joan Herriges said about money. My bank charges a 3% fee for using the ATM overseas, so we're talking $3 per $100 -- peanuts, really and the convenience is well worth the cost. Plus, you get the current, best exchange rate. I remember the days of travelers checks when you paid a fee to buy the checks and another fee when you cashed them. All the while you were at the mercy of the merchant or restaurant on the exchange rate, so you usually paid three fees for every transaction. No wonder ATMs and Credit cards became so popular. Enjoy your trip to our favorite city in the world. Phil King Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 7:04 PM Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for 10 days. Thanks in advance for your tips! Susan ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090728/d4b0ac8e/attachment.htm From slaceplace at gmail.com Tue Jul 28 16:22:04 2009 From: slaceplace at gmail.com (Susan Lacy) Date: Tue Jul 28 16:02:25 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: <14BADF2767D34867A34BC3030649FBCF@phil6161780101> References: <14BADF2767D34867A34BC3030649FBCF@phil6161780101> Message-ID: Thanks again! I've always been happy using a credit card - carry very little cash. I was just leary of the new "fees" - you're right, 3% is negligable when you consider the convenience factor. I can't wait to get there! It will have been two years since we've been to Paris (also my favorite city) - too long! Susan On Tue, Jul 28, 2009 at 4:02 PM, Phillip King wrote: > Susan, > Ditto to what Russ Crum and Joan Herriges said about money. My bank > charges a 3% fee for using the ATM overseas, so we're talking $3 per $100 -- > peanuts, really and the convenience is well worth the cost. Plus, you get > the current, best exchange rate. > I remember the days of travelers checks when you paid a fee to buy the > checks and another fee when you cashed them. All the while you were at the > mercy of the merchant or restaurant on the exchange rate, so you usually > paid three fees for every transaction. No wonder ATMs and Credit cards > became so popular. > Enjoy your trip to our favorite city in the world. > Phil King > Spring Lake, MI > > ----- Original Message ----- > *From:* Susan Lacy > *To:* IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > *Sent:* Monday, July 27, 2009 7:04 PM > *Subject:* [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money > > Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in > Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I > understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for > foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to > Paris the end of September for 10 days. > > Thanks in advance for your tips! > > Susan > > ------------------------------ > > -- > _______________________________________________ > This message was sent by IdyllChat. > To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > > Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > > Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: > http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > > Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: > http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html > To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, > visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat > > -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090728/0d0abb99/attachment.htm From pandjking at sbcglobal.net Wed Jul 29 15:32:13 2009 From: pandjking at sbcglobal.net (Phillip King) Date: Wed Jul 29 15:12:28 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money References: Message-ID: <06AC6E085B3945D5B0CC2260BE7855AE@phil6161780101> Dear Susan, Jane and I have done probably 12 apartments with Untours and have always been very pleased. We have also recommended them to a number of friends and have always gotten positive feedback. We did an Untour in Spain in 2006. Stayed in a lovely, large apartment in Priego de Cordoba owned by Juan _____(I forget his last name, but the apartment was "La Posada Real" on the third floor of Juan's building). The town was small and easy to walk, with any number of good restaurants. Maria, the Untours on-site representative, was excellent. The location of the town made for easy driving to Granada and Cordoba for major sightseeing. We were delighted we made Priego de Cordoba our home base in Spain. I'm not keen on driving in foreign countries, but I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent, modern roads in Spain and how easy they were to drive. We had no trouble whatsoever going where we wanted to go and getting back. If you are considering Spain, Priego de Cordoba would be an excellent choice. We have also been to Barcelona a couple of times. One of Jane's bridesmaids married a man from Barcelona and has lived there ever since graduating from college. I believe Untours now has apartments available in Barcelona. If you would prefer a big city to a small town, Barcelona has a great many things to offer in the way of sights to see and places to go. We love Barcelona. However, it is very touristy and much more expensive than being in a small town, but a great place to spend a week or two. Hope this information is helpful. Phil King, Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: Phillip King Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 7:58 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Hi Phil, I have rented an apartment on Ile St. Louis. I did not make arrangements through Untours as I had very specific ideas as to where I wanted to be situated. Next time, maybe I'll check out the Untours apartments. How many times have you stayed in Untours apartments? I'm thinking of Spain for next year . . . Susan On Tue, Jul 28, 2009 at 7:13 PM, Phillip King wrote: Susan, Have you selected an Untours apartment yet, or aren't you doing your accommodations with Untours? Jane and I have had great luck with apartments in Paris through Untours. We loved the one on Rue des Martyrs. The wooden floors squeeked like crazy, but it was a large apt. and there were all kinds of food shops and stalls in the neighborhood, and a couple of nice food markets and wine shops. It wasn't a fancy neighborhood, but it suited us just fine, and it was only a two block walk to the Metro. I am curious, is all. Wherever you stay in Paris will be just fine. It beats anything I can think of in the US. Enjoy! Phil King. ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 7:04 PM Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for 10 days. Thanks in advance for your tips! Susan -------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090729/5778e6ca/attachment-0001.htm From bobbie929 at comcast.net Wed Jul 29 16:10:46 2009 From: bobbie929 at comcast.net (Roberta Churchill) Date: Wed Jul 29 15:50:57 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money References: <06AC6E085B3945D5B0CC2260BE7855AE@phil6161780101> Message-ID: <001201ca1088$a8f70c80$0300a8c0@bca1f77dc2ec3d> Dear Philip, You and your wife have been most generous with information about Barcelona. I now find myself fearful about muggings, etc. in Barcelona. I have just received Frommer's "Barcelona" and learned from other sources that crime has become much worse in B. and, they say all over Europe. But some hospitalizations, they say, have been necessary in B., older people (I am 75) and others have been hurt on La Rambla and Barri Gotic. We will be staying at Harbour Palace II, Port Vell and Barri Gottic in October. I hate being afraid and have never felt this way before even when growing up in New York City. What do you know about this situation? Or what does anyone receiving this know? Thanks. Roberta ----- Original Message ----- From: Phillip King To: Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 3:32 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Susan, Jane and I have done probably 12 apartments with Untours and have always been very pleased. We have also recommended them to a number of friends and have always gotten positive feedback. We did an Untour in Spain in 2006. Stayed in a lovely, large apartment in Priego de Cordoba owned by Juan _____(I forget his last name, but the apartment was "La Posada Real" on the third floor of Juan's building). The town was small and easy to walk, with any number of good restaurants. Maria, the Untours on-site representative, was excellent. The location of the town made for easy driving to Granada and Cordoba for major sightseeing. We were delighted we made Priego de Cordoba our home base in Spain. I'm not keen on driving in foreign countries, but I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent, modern roads in Spain and how easy they were to drive. We had no trouble whatsoever going where we wanted to go and getting back. If you are considering Spain, Priego de Cordoba would be an excellent choice. We have also been to Barcelona a couple of times. One of Jane's bridesmaids married a man from Barcelona and has lived there ever since graduating from college. I believe Untours now has apartments available in Barcelona. If you would prefer a big city to a small town, Barcelona has a great many things to offer in the way of sights to see and places to go. We love Barcelona. However, it is very touristy and much more expensive than being in a small town, but a great place to spend a week or two. Hope this information is helpful. Phil King, Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: Phillip King Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 7:58 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Hi Phil, I have rented an apartment on Ile St. Louis. I did not make arrangements through Untours as I had very specific ideas as to where I wanted to be situated. Next time, maybe I'll check out the Untours apartments. How many times have you stayed in Untours apartments? I'm thinking of Spain for next year . . . Susan On Tue, Jul 28, 2009 at 7:13 PM, Phillip King wrote: Susan, Have you selected an Untours apartment yet, or aren't you doing your accommodations with Untours? Jane and I have had great luck with apartments in Paris through Untours. We loved the one on Rue des Martyrs. The wooden floors squeeked like crazy, but it was a large apt. and there were all kinds of food shops and stalls in the neighborhood, and a couple of nice food markets and wine shops. It wasn't a fancy neighborhood, but it suited us just fine, and it was only a two block walk to the Metro. I am curious, is all. Wherever you stay in Paris will be just fine. It beats anything I can think of in the US. Enjoy! Phil King. ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 7:04 PM Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for 10 days. Thanks in advance for your tips! Susan ------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat celona -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090729/079212ff/attachment.htm From Linda.Perrotto at umb.edu Wed Jul 29 16:38:57 2009 From: Linda.Perrotto at umb.edu (Linda Perrotto) Date: Wed Jul 29 16:19:19 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: <001201ca1088$a8f70c80$0300a8c0@bca1f77dc2ec3d> References: <06AC6E085B3945D5B0CC2260BE7855AE@phil6161780101> <001201ca1088$a8f70c80$0300a8c0@bca1f77dc2ec3d> Message-ID: <1DFDC848411ED84F85CEE0ED5630065702103238@ebe2.umassb.net> Hi, Roberta, I spent four days in Barcelona earlier this month. I had read all of the warnings and was nervous about the pickpockets. We experienced one incident. As we were boarding a subway at a stop on La Rambla, four young women pushed into us and one of them attempted to remove my husband's wallet from his pocket. He felt the attempt and grabbed the wallet. We got on the train, but before the doors closed, the four pickpockets jumped off. My husband and I both had our valuables under our clothes in a waist wallet, so he wasn't too worried about losing the empty wallet. The rest of the time we had no problems. The same kind of thing happened to us years ago in Lisbon and a few months ago a friend of mine narrowly avoided losing her valuables to a pickpocket on a subway in Madrid. About ten years ago another friend had his wallet stolen in the Paris Metro. Europe is just not as safe for tourists as it used to be, so you need to secure your passport and credit cards. In spite of this incident, we really enjoyed Barcelona and would return. Chances are you will be perfectly safe. I hope you enjoy your trip. Linda ________________________________ From: idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com [mailto:idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com] On Behalf Of Roberta Churchill Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 4:11 PM To: Phillip King; Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Philip, You and your wife have been most generous with information about Barcelona. I now find myself fearful about muggings, etc. in Barcelona. I have just received Frommer's "Barcelona" and learned from other sources that crime has become much worse in B. and, they say all over Europe. But some hospitalizations, they say, have been necessary in B., older people (I am 75) and others have been hurt on La Rambla and Barri Gotic. We will be staying at Harbour Palace II, Port Vell and Barri Gottic in October. I hate being afraid and have never felt this way before even when growing up in New York City. What do you know about this situation? Or what does anyone receiving this know? Thanks. Roberta ----- Original Message ----- From: Phillip King To: Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 3:32 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Susan, Jane and I have done probably 12 apartments with Untours and have always been very pleased. We have also recommended them to a number of friends and have always gotten positive feedback. We did an Untour in Spain in 2006. Stayed in a lovely, large apartment in Priego de Cordoba owned by Juan _____(I forget his last name, but the apartment was "La Posada Real" on the third floor of Juan's building). The town was small and easy to walk, with any number of good restaurants. Maria, the Untours on-site representative, was excellent. The location of the town made for easy driving to Granada and Cordoba for major sightseeing. We were delighted we made Priego de Cordoba our home base in Spain. I'm not keen on driving in foreign countries, but I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent, modern roads in Spain and how easy they were to drive. We had no trouble whatsoever going where we wanted to go and getting back. If you are considering Spain, Priego de Cordoba would be an excellent choice. We have also been to Barcelona a couple of times. One of Jane's bridesmaids married a man from Barcelona and has lived there ever since graduating from college. I believe Untours now has apartments available in Barcelona. If you would prefer a big city to a small town, Barcelona has a great many things to offer in the way of sights to see and places to go. We love Barcelona. However, it is very touristy and much more expensive than being in a small town, but a great place to spend a week or two. Hope this information is helpful. Phil King, Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: Phillip King Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 7:58 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Hi Phil, I have rented an apartment on Ile St. Louis. I did not make arrangements through Untours as I had very specific ideas as to where I wanted to be situated. Next time, maybe I'll check out the Untours apartments. How many times have you stayed in Untours apartments? I'm thinking of Spain for next year . . . Susan On Tue, Jul 28, 2009 at 7:13 PM, Phillip King wrote: Susan, Have you selected an Untours apartment yet, or aren't you doing your accommodations with Untours? Jane and I have had great luck with apartments in Paris through Untours. We loved the one on Rue des Martyrs. The wooden floors squeeked like crazy, but it was a large apt. and there were all kinds of food shops and stalls in the neighborhood, and a couple of nice food markets and wine shops. It wasn't a fancy neighborhood, but it suited us just fine, and it was only a two block walk to the Metro. I am curious, is all. Wherever you stay in Paris will be just fine. It beats anything I can think of in the US. Enjoy! Phil King. ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 7:04 PM Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for 10 days. Thanks in advance for your tips! Susan ________________________________ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat ________________________________ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat celona -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090729/a59c61c2/attachment-0001.htm From rjthorn at ptd.net Wed Jul 29 19:01:40 2009 From: rjthorn at ptd.net (Johana Thornton) Date: Wed Jul 29 18:42:16 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: <001201ca1088$a8f70c80$0300a8c0@bca1f77dc2ec3d> References: <06AC6E085B3945D5B0CC2260BE7855AE@phil6161780101> <001201ca1088$a8f70c80$0300a8c0@bca1f77dc2ec3d> Message-ID: Roberta, Yes, there are oickpockets all over Europe. Just be careful and wear your valuables and money under your clothing. 3 years ago, 3 couples of us traveled to Spain and Portugal. The first day in Lisbon our one friend had his wallet taken from his pants pocket. We had told him not to keep it there, but he didn't listen. Later that same day while taking a bus to a monastary, a young man tried to pick the pocket of another man in our group. In Barcelona , the man who lost his wallet in Lisbon was walkung with his wife near La Familia Sagrada when someone squirted something vile looking on his back. The man then tried to clean it off for him. Our friend's wife told him to get lost and that she would clean it up. On Las Ramblas, we saw many piclpockets at work. Especially around the crowds watching the buskers. When watching buskers, we would stand back away from the crowds. Go and enjoy, but be aware of your surroundings , wear money belts or neck pouches and don't talk to strangers that try to befriend you. Jo Thornton ----- Original Message ----- From: Roberta Churchill To: Phillip King ; Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 4:10 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Philip, You and your wife have been most generous with information about Barcelona. I now find myself fearful about muggings, etc. in Barcelona. I have just received Frommer's "Barcelona" and learned from other sources that crime has become much worse in B. and, they say all over Europe. But some hospitalizations, they say, have been necessary in B., older people (I am 75) and others have been hurt on La Rambla and Barri Gotic. We will be staying at Harbour Palace II, Port Vell and Barri Gottic in October. I hate being afraid and have never felt this way before even when growing up in New York City. What do you know about this situation? Or what does anyone receiving this know? Thanks. Roberta ----- Original Message ----- From: Phillip King To: Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 3:32 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Susan, Jane and I have done probably 12 apartments with Untours and have always been very pleased. We have also recommended them to a number of friends and have always gotten positive feedback. We did an Untour in Spain in 2006. Stayed in a lovely, large apartment in Priego de Cordoba owned by Juan _____(I forget his last name, but the apartment was "La Posada Real" on the third floor of Juan's building). The town was small and easy to walk, with any number of good restaurants. Maria, the Untours on-site representative, was excellent. The location of the town made for easy driving to Granada and Cordoba for major sightseeing. We were delighted we made Priego de Cordoba our home base in Spain. I'm not keen on driving in foreign countries, but I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent, modern roads in Spain and how easy they were to drive. We had no trouble whatsoever going where we wanted to go and getting back. If you are considering Spain, Priego de Cordoba would be an excellent choice. We have also been to Barcelona a couple of times. One of Jane's bridesmaids married a man from Barcelona and has lived there ever since graduating from college. I believe Untours now has apartments available in Barcelona. If you would prefer a big city to a small town, Barcelona has a great many things to offer in the way of sights to see and places to go. We love Barcelona. However, it is very touristy and much more expensive than being in a small town, but a great place to spend a week or two. Hope this information is helpful. Phil King, Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: Phillip King Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 7:58 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Hi Phil, I have rented an apartment on Ile St. Louis. I did not make arrangements through Untours as I had very specific ideas as to where I wanted to be situated. Next time, maybe I'll check out the Untours apartments. How many times have you stayed in Untours apartments? I'm thinking of Spain for next year . . . Susan On Tue, Jul 28, 2009 at 7:13 PM, Phillip King wrote: Susan, Have you selected an Untours apartment yet, or aren't you doing your accommodations with Untours? Jane and I have had great luck with apartments in Paris through Untours. We loved the one on Rue des Martyrs. The wooden floors squeeked like crazy, but it was a large apt. and there were all kinds of food shops and stalls in the neighborhood, and a couple of nice food markets and wine shops. It wasn't a fancy neighborhood, but it suited us just fine, and it was only a two block walk to the Metro. I am curious, is all. Wherever you stay in Paris will be just fine. It beats anything I can think of in the US. Enjoy! Phil King. ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 7:04 PM Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for 10 days. Thanks in advance for your tips! Susan ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat celona ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. 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URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090729/52a3fa65/attachment.htm From Prabow at aol.com Wed Jul 29 19:52:23 2009 From: Prabow at aol.com (Prabow@aol.com) Date: Wed Jul 29 19:32:56 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Re: IdyllChat Digest, Vol 36, Issue 4 Message-ID: In a message dated 7/27/2009 8:20:39 PM Eastern Daylight Time, idyllchat-request@lists.untours.com writes: > idyllchat-owner@lists.untours.com'' Response to letter one re. cars I have leased cars in Europe and have found the price is better if I lease the car in the US before I leave. ************** Hot Deals at Dell on Popular Laptops perfect for Back to School (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1223106546x1201717234/aol?redir=http:%2F%2Faltfarm.mediaplex.com%2Fad%2Fck%2F12309%2D81939%2D1629%2D8) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090729/b46522c3/attachment.htm From pandjking at sbcglobal.net Thu Jul 30 09:29:44 2009 From: pandjking at sbcglobal.net (Phillip King) Date: Thu Jul 30 09:09:57 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money References: <06AC6E085B3945D5B0CC2260BE7855AE@phil6161780101> <001201ca1088$a8f70c80$0300a8c0@bca1f77dc2ec3d> Message-ID: Roberta, I believe most of the crime in Barcelona, and big cities throughout Europe, for that matter, involves pickpockets. Violent crime and muggings are very rare. Wear your valuables -- cash, passports, credit cards, etc. -- in pouches under your clothing. Leave your expensive jewelry at home and wear only costume jewelry. Do this and I think you'll be fine. Phil King Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Roberta Churchill To: Phillip King ; Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 4:10 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Philip, You and your wife have been most generous with information about Barcelona. I now find myself fearful about muggings, etc. in Barcelona. I have just received Frommer's "Barcelona" and learned from other sources that crime has become much worse in B. and, they say all over Europe. But some hospitalizations, they say, have been necessary in B., older people (I am 75) and others have been hurt on La Rambla and Barri Gotic. We will be staying at Harbour Palace II, Port Vell and Barri Gottic in October. I hate being afraid and have never felt this way before even when growing up in New York City. What do you know about this situation? Or what does anyone receiving this know? Thanks. Roberta ----- Original Message ----- From: Phillip King To: Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 3:32 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Susan, Jane and I have done probably 12 apartments with Untours and have always been very pleased. We have also recommended them to a number of friends and have always gotten positive feedback. We did an Untour in Spain in 2006. Stayed in a lovely, large apartment in Priego de Cordoba owned by Juan _____(I forget his last name, but the apartment was "La Posada Real" on the third floor of Juan's building). The town was small and easy to walk, with any number of good restaurants. Maria, the Untours on-site representative, was excellent. The location of the town made for easy driving to Granada and Cordoba for major sightseeing. We were delighted we made Priego de Cordoba our home base in Spain. I'm not keen on driving in foreign countries, but I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent, modern roads in Spain and how easy they were to drive. We had no trouble whatsoever going where we wanted to go and getting back. If you are considering Spain, Priego de Cordoba would be an excellent choice. We have also been to Barcelona a couple of times. One of Jane's bridesmaids married a man from Barcelona and has lived there ever since graduating from college. I believe Untours now has apartments available in Barcelona. If you would prefer a big city to a small town, Barcelona has a great many things to offer in the way of sights to see and places to go. We love Barcelona. However, it is very touristy and much more expensive than being in a small town, but a great place to spend a week or two. Hope this information is helpful. Phil King, Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: Phillip King Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 7:58 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Hi Phil, I have rented an apartment on Ile St. Louis. I did not make arrangements through Untours as I had very specific ideas as to where I wanted to be situated. Next time, maybe I'll check out the Untours apartments. How many times have you stayed in Untours apartments? I'm thinking of Spain for next year . . . Susan On Tue, Jul 28, 2009 at 7:13 PM, Phillip King wrote: Susan, Have you selected an Untours apartment yet, or aren't you doing your accommodations with Untours? Jane and I have had great luck with apartments in Paris through Untours. We loved the one on Rue des Martyrs. The wooden floors squeeked like crazy, but it was a large apt. and there were all kinds of food shops and stalls in the neighborhood, and a couple of nice food markets and wine shops. It wasn't a fancy neighborhood, but it suited us just fine, and it was only a two block walk to the Metro. I am curious, is all. Wherever you stay in Paris will be just fine. It beats anything I can think of in the US. Enjoy! Phil King. ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 7:04 PM Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for 10 days. Thanks in advance for your tips! Susan ---------------------------------------------------------------------- -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat celona -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090730/94e20bb8/attachment-0001.htm From pandjking at sbcglobal.net Thu Jul 30 14:32:11 2009 From: pandjking at sbcglobal.net (Phillip King) Date: Thu Jul 30 14:12:24 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money References: <06AC6E085B3945D5B0CC2260BE7855AE@phil6161780101> <001201ca1088$a8f70c80$0300a8c0@bca1f77dc2ec3d> <004901ca113a$7e8e22a0$0300a8c0@bca1f77dc2ec3d> Message-ID: Roberta, We have roamed the sights and streets of Barcelona 3 times -- stayed in Port Vell for a week with friends on their sailboat a couple of year ago -- and have never had a problem. I'm certainly not an imposing guy. I'm 5'11", 69 yrs. old, with gray hair and a gray beard, and I look and act like an American. We've seen and have been approached by pickpockets in Europe. I'm thinking the thieves in the US are far more dangerous than those in Europe because they are probably hopped up on drugs, while the ones in Europe just want your money. Just be aware of your surroundings, don't go walking down streets in Europe that look like you wouldn't walk in the US, and accept the fact that you are probably far safer walking around in Europe than you would be driving in America. Relax and enjoy your trip. Phil King ----- Original Message ----- From: Roberta Churchill To: Phillip King Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:23 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Thanks, Phil. I do hope you are right.Roberta ----- Original Message ----- From: Phillip King To: Roberta Churchill ; Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 9:29 AM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Roberta, I believe most of the crime in Barcelona, and big cities throughout Europe, for that matter, involves pickpockets. Violent crime and muggings are very rare. Wear your valuables -- cash, passports, credit cards, etc. -- in pouches under your clothing. Leave your expensive jewelry at home and wear only costume jewelry. Do this and I think you'll be fine. Phil King Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Roberta Churchill To: Phillip King ; Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 4:10 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Philip, You and your wife have been most generous with information about Barcelona. I now find myself fearful about muggings, etc. in Barcelona. I have just received Frommer's "Barcelona" and learned from other sources that crime has become much worse in B. and, they say all over Europe. But some hospitalizations, they say, have been necessary in B., older people (I am 75) and others have been hurt on La Rambla and Barri Gotic. We will be staying at Harbour Palace II, Port Vell and Barri Gottic in October. I hate being afraid and have never felt this way before even when growing up in New York City. What do you know about this situation? Or what does anyone receiving this know? Thanks. Roberta ----- Original Message ----- From: Phillip King To: Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 3:32 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Susan, Jane and I have done probably 12 apartments with Untours and have always been very pleased. We have also recommended them to a number of friends and have always gotten positive feedback. We did an Untour in Spain in 2006. Stayed in a lovely, large apartment in Priego de Cordoba owned by Juan _____(I forget his last name, but the apartment was "La Posada Real" on the third floor of Juan's building). The town was small and easy to walk, with any number of good restaurants. Maria, the Untours on-site representative, was excellent. The location of the town made for easy driving to Granada and Cordoba for major sightseeing. We were delighted we made Priego de Cordoba our home base in Spain. I'm not keen on driving in foreign countries, but I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent, modern roads in Spain and how easy they were to drive. We had no trouble whatsoever going where we wanted to go and getting back. If you are considering Spain, Priego de Cordoba would be an excellent choice. We have also been to Barcelona a couple of times. One of Jane's bridesmaids married a man from Barcelona and has lived there ever since graduating from college. I believe Untours now has apartments available in Barcelona. If you would prefer a big city to a small town, Barcelona has a great many things to offer in the way of sights to see and places to go. We love Barcelona. However, it is very touristy and much more expensive than being in a small town, but a great place to spend a week or two. Hope this information is helpful. Phil King, Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: Phillip King Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 7:58 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Hi Phil, I have rented an apartment on Ile St. Louis. I did not make arrangements through Untours as I had very specific ideas as to where I wanted to be situated. Next time, maybe I'll check out the Untours apartments. How many times have you stayed in Untours apartments? I'm thinking of Spain for next year . . . Susan On Tue, Jul 28, 2009 at 7:13 PM, Phillip King wrote: Susan, Have you selected an Untours apartment yet, or aren't you doing your accommodations with Untours? Jane and I have had great luck with apartments in Paris through Untours. We loved the one on Rue des Martyrs. The wooden floors squeeked like crazy, but it was a large apt. and there were all kinds of food shops and stalls in the neighborhood, and a couple of nice food markets and wine shops. It wasn't a fancy neighborhood, but it suited us just fine, and it was only a two block walk to the Metro. I am curious, is all. Wherever you stay in Paris will be just fine. It beats anything I can think of in the US. Enjoy! Phil King. ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 7:04 PM Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for 10 days. Thanks in advance for your tips! Susan ------------------------------------------------------------------ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat ------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat celona -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090730/6b30df2f/attachment.htm From r-bole at neiu.edu Thu Jul 30 14:44:52 2009 From: r-bole at neiu.edu (Bole, Renee) Date: Thu Jul 30 14:25:12 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <9B0B0B8FF2328E48930D4B6273C1B26104E3B8C2@EXNODE1.univ.neiu.edu> Roberta, I apologize if I am beating a dead horse but I am a firm believer that one must be careful everywhere particularly in any big city anywhere. The money belt and bag hung across the front of one's body with your hand planted on top of that bag and that means even/especially in churches ,,,and you're good to go anywhere. On a recent tour a woman had her purse picked twice in churches and continued to carry a shoulder bag hanging to her side. A co-worker had her wallet stolen when she took it out and laid it down to pay. Let common sense guide you. I don't agree that you shouldn't talk with strangers as that is one of the most fun serendipitous things about travel! Just trust your instincts about with whom you chat. Enjoy! Renee PS I am a fun-loving free-spirited type who has done a lot of schlepping around on my own. ________________________________ From: idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com [mailto:idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com] On Behalf Of Phillip King Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:32 PM To: Roberta Churchill Cc: Idyllchat Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Roberta, We have roamed the sights and streets of Barcelona 3 times -- stayed in Port Vell for a week with friends on their sailboat a couple of year ago -- and have never had a problem. I'm certainly not an imposing guy. I'm 5'11", 69 yrs. old, with gray hair and a gray beard, and I look and act like an American. We've seen and have been approached by pickpockets in Europe. I'm thinking the thieves in the US are far more dangerous than those in Europe because they are probably hopped up on drugs, while the ones in Europe just want your money. Just be aware of your surroundings, don't go walking down streets in Europe that look like you wouldn't walk in the US, and accept the fact that you are probably far safer walking around in Europe than you would be driving in America. Relax and enjoy your trip. Phil King ----- Original Message ----- From: Roberta Churchill To: Phillip King Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:23 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Thanks, Phil. I do hope you are right.Roberta ----- Original Message ----- From: Phillip King To: Roberta Churchill ; Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 9:29 AM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Roberta, I believe most of the crime in Barcelona, and big cities throughout Europe, for that matter, involves pickpockets. Violent crime and muggings are very rare. Wear your valuables -- cash, passports, credit cards, etc. -- in pouches under your clothing. Leave your expensive jewelry at home and wear only costume jewelry. Do this and I think you'll be fine. Phil King Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Roberta Churchill To: Phillip King ; Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 4:10 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Philip, You and your wife have been most generous with information about Barcelona. I now find myself fearful about muggings, etc. in Barcelona. I have just received Frommer's "Barcelona" and learned from other sources that crime has become much worse in B. and, they say all over Europe. But some hospitalizations, they say, have been necessary in B., older people (I am 75) and others have been hurt on La Rambla and Barri Gotic. We will be staying at Harbour Palace II, Port Vell and Barri Gottic in October. I hate being afraid and have never felt this way before even when growing up in New York City. What do you know about this situation? Or what does anyone receiving this know? Thanks. Roberta ----- Original Message ----- From: Phillip King To: Susan Lacy Cc: Idyllchat Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 3:32 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Dear Susan, Jane and I have done probably 12 apartments with Untours and have always been very pleased. We have also recommended them to a number of friends and have always gotten positive feedback. We did an Untour in Spain in 2006. Stayed in a lovely, large apartment in Priego de Cordoba owned by Juan _____(I forget his last name, but the apartment was "La Posada Real" on the third floor of Juan's building). The town was small and easy to walk, with any number of good restaurants. Maria, the Untours on-site representative, was excellent. The location of the town made for easy driving to Granada and Cordoba for major sightseeing. We were delighted we made Priego de Cordoba our home base in Spain. I'm not keen on driving in foreign countries, but I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent, modern roads in Spain and how easy they were to drive. We had no trouble whatsoever going where we wanted to go and getting back. If you are considering Spain, Priego de Cordoba would be an excellent choice. We have also been to Barcelona a couple of times. One of Jane's bridesmaids married a man from Barcelona and has lived there ever since graduating from college. I believe Untours now has apartments available in Barcelona. If you would prefer a big city to a small town, Barcelona has a great many things to offer in the way of sights to see and places to go. We love Barcelona. However, it is very touristy and much more expensive than being in a small town, but a great place to spend a week or two. Hope this information is helpful. Phil King, Spring Lake, MI ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: Phillip King Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2009 7:58 PM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Hi Phil, I have rented an apartment on Ile St. Louis. I did not make arrangements through Untours as I had very specific ideas as to where I wanted to be situated. Next time, maybe I'll check out the Untours apartments. How many times have you stayed in Untours apartments? I'm thinking of Spain for next year . . . Susan On Tue, Jul 28, 2009 at 7:13 PM, Phillip King wrote: Susan, Have you selected an Untours apartment yet, or aren't you doing your accommodations with Untours? Jane and I have had great luck with apartments in Paris through Untours. We loved the one on Rue des Martyrs. The wooden floors squeeked like crazy, but it was a large apt. and there were all kinds of food shops and stalls in the neighborhood, and a couple of nice food markets and wine shops. It wasn't a fancy neighborhood, but it suited us just fine, and it was only a two block walk to the Metro. I am curious, is all. Wherever you stay in Paris will be just fine. It beats anything I can think of in the US. Enjoy! Phil King. ----- Original Message ----- From: Susan Lacy To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Sent: Monday, July 27, 2009 7:04 PM Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Does anyone have advice as to how best to pay expenses while traveling in Europe this fall? Previously I've always just used a credit card, but I understand now the US banks are adding an additional hefty surcharge for foreign transactions. Is it wiser to use cash these days? We are going to Paris the end of September for 10 days. Thanks in advance for your tips! Susan ________________________________ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat ________________________________ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat celona -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090730/4c5915b5/attachment-0001.htm From rrcrum1 at gmail.com Thu Jul 30 14:59:47 2009 From: rrcrum1 at gmail.com (Russell Crum) Date: Thu Jul 30 14:40:10 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: <9B0B0B8FF2328E48930D4B6273C1B26104E3B8C2@EXNODE1.univ.neiu.edu> References: <9B0B0B8FF2328E48930D4B6273C1B26104E3B8C2@EXNODE1.univ.neiu.edu> Message-ID: Renee's comment about a woman insisting on carrying her shoulder bag and having her wallet stolen are good examples of too many folks not thinking through their "baggage" on international travel. If you think about it, very little that most of us carry in our billfolds is of any use when we are outside the US. Outside of credit cards, ATM cards and money, almost nothing in our wallets is of any use when on most trips. If you are driving, a driver's license can be added. I would venture to guess that for most women, 90% of the things they are dragging around in their purses here at home can very safely be left there when they are on their European trip. Years ago, I started leaving my wallet at home and carrying the essential cards, along with my passport, in secure (i.e. under my clothes) money belts and neck pouches. The only money in my pants pockets is what I think I may need for part of the day. This approach has made me feel much more secure, even when approached by pickpockets, not to mention less to keep track of. Russ On Jul 30, 2009, at 2:44 PM, Bole, Renee wrote: > Roberta, I apologize if I am beating a dead horse but I am a firm > believer that one must be careful everywhere particularly in any big > city anywhere. The money belt and bag hung across the front of > one?s body with your hand planted on top of that bag and that means > even/especially in churches ,,,and you?re good to go anywhere. On a > recent tour a woman had her purse picked twice in churches and > continued to carry a shoulder bag hanging to her side. A co-worker > had her wallet stolen when she took it out and laid it down to pay. > Let common sense guide you. I don?t agree that you shouldn?t > talk with strangers as that is one of the most fun serendipitous > things about travel! Just trust your instincts about with whom you > chat. Enjoy! Renee PS I am a fun-loving free-spirited type who > has done a lot of schlepping around on my own. > > From: idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com [mailto:idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com > ] On Behalf Of Phillip King > Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:32 PM > To: Roberta Churchill > Cc: Idyllchat > Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money > > Roberta, > We have roamed the sights and streets of Barcelona 3 times -- > stayed in Port Vell for a week with friends on their sailboat a > couple of year ago -- and have never had a problem. > I'm certainly not an imposing guy. I'm 5'11", 69 yrs. old, with > gray hair and a gray beard, and I look and act like an American. > We've seen and have been approached by pickpockets in Europe. I'm > thinking the thieves in the US are far more dangerous than those in > Europe because they are probably hopped up on drugs, while the ones > in Europe just want your money. > Just be aware of your surroundings, don't go walking down > streets in Europe that look like you wouldn't walk in the US, and > accept the fact that you are probably far safer walking around in > Europe than you would be driving in America. > Relax and enjoy your trip. > Phil King > ----- Original Message ----- > _______________________________________________ > This message was sent by IdyllChat. > To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > > Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > > Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > > Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html > To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause > delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat Russ Crum rrcrum1@gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090730/8043e795/attachment.htm From annemargaret at gmail.com Thu Jul 30 15:02:11 2009 From: annemargaret at gmail.com (Anne Friedman) Date: Thu Jul 30 14:42:29 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Barcelona/pickpockets Message-ID: I have traveled in Europe quite a bit, and my father and I did have the most pickpocketing attempts when we were in Barcelona. This was 5 or 6 years ago. It was non-violent but fairly rampant. My father who was about 70 at the time, was more of a target than I. He did not take precautions (had his wallet in his pocket) and had it stolen when a pickpocket posed as someone 'helping' us when my dad was sprayedwith (fake) bird poop. He approached and pretended to help my dad wipe off his shirt. He walked away as we thanked him, and needless to say, a few minutes later my dad realized his wallet was missing. I was a few steps behind and thought things were strange but it was all over so fast we barely had time to react. It was very creative. We also had frequent attempts while boarding the subway - by kids, so if you're worried you might avoid the subway. If you have a money belt or similar you will be fine. We did not let this ruin our trip, and still had a wonderful time. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090730/40a38e3d/attachment.htm From jsdivita at sbcglobal.net Thu Jul 30 15:21:05 2009 From: jsdivita at sbcglobal.net (Sylvia Divita) Date: Thu Jul 30 15:01:22 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: References: <9B0B0B8FF2328E48930D4B6273C1B26104E3B8C2@EXNODE1.univ.neiu.edu> Message-ID: <500414.38978.qm@web82707.mail.mud.yahoo.com> I pity the person who steals my little around the neck purse.? All I carry in it is lip gloss, kleenex and toilet paper.? Everything else is under wrap (in my neck pouch) The advantage of having an around the neck purse is having my hands free.? Sylvia Divita ________________________________ From: Russell Crum To: idyllchat Cc: "Bole, Renee" Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 11:59:47 AM Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Renee's comment about a ?woman insisting on carrying her shoulder bag and having her wallet stolen are good examples of too many folks not thinking through their "baggage" on international travel. If you think about it, very little that most of us carry in our billfolds is of any use when we are outside the US. Outside of credit cards, ATM cards and money, almost nothing in our wallets is of any use when on most trips. If you are driving, a driver's license can be added. I would venture to guess that for most women, 90% of the things they are dragging around in their purses here at home can very safely be left there when they are on their European trip. Years ago, I started leaving my wallet at home and carrying the essential cards, along with my passport, in secure (i.e. under my clothes) money belts and neck pouches. The only money in my pants pockets is what I think I may need for part of the day. This approach has made me feel much more secure, even when approached by pickpockets, not to mention less to keep track of. Russ On Jul 30, 2009, at 2:44 PM, Bole, Renee wrote: Roberta,? I apologize if I am beating a dead horse but I am a firm believer that one must be careful everywhere particularly in any big city anywhere.? The money belt and bag hung across the front of one?s body with your hand planted on top of that bag and that means even/especially in churches ,,,and you?re good to go anywhere.? On a recent tour a woman had her purse picked twice in churches and continued to carry a shoulder bag hanging to her side. ?A co-worker had her wallet stolen when she took it out and laid it down to pay.? Let common sense guide you.? ???? ?I don?t agree that you shouldn?t talk with strangers as that is one of the most fun serendipitous things about travel!? Just trust your instincts about with whom you chat.? Enjoy!? Renee? PS? I am a fun-loving free-spirited type who has done a lot of schlepping around on my own. >? > ________________________________ >From:?idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com?[mailto:idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com]?On Behalf Of?Phillip King >Sent:?Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:32 PM >To:?Roberta Churchill >Cc:?Idyllchat >Subject:?Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat]? Paris?and Money >? >Roberta,??? >??? We have roamed the sights and streets of? Barcelona?3 times? -- stayed in Port Vell for a week with friends on their sailboat a couple of year ago -- and have never had a problem.? >??? I'm certainly not an imposing guy.? I'm 5'11", 69 yrs. old, with gray hair and a gray beard, and I look and act like an American.? We've seen and have been approached by pickpockets?in? Europe .? I'm thinking the thieves in the? US?are far more dangerous than those in Europe because they are probably hopped up on drugs, while the ones in? Europe?just want your money. >??? Just be aware of your surroundings, don't go walking down streets in Europe that look like you wouldn't walk in the? US , and accept the fact that you are probably far safer walking around?in Europe than you would be driving in? America . >??? Relax and enjoy your trip. >??? Phil King >----- Original Message -----_______________________________________________ >This message was sent by IdyllChat. >To reply or send a new message, email to:?IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > >Visit the IdyllChat archives:?http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > >Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at:?http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > >Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours:?http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html >To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit:?http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat Russ Crum rrcrum1@gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090730/8f8f4b1f/attachment-0001.htm From maginnisone at hotmail.com Thu Jul 30 17:41:23 2009 From: maginnisone at hotmail.com (Barbara Palmer) Date: Thu Jul 30 17:21:41 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: References: <9B0B0B8FF2328E48930D4B6273C1B26104E3B8C2@EXNODE1.univ.neiu.edu> Message-ID: Be careful of anything hanging around your neck. A friend had hers cut and removed from the back in Italy in an instant. I've never had a problem using a money belt. From: rrcrum1@gmail.com To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:59:47 -0400 CC: r-bole@neiu.edu Renee's comment about a woman insisting on carrying her shoulder bag and having her wallet stolen are good examples of too many folks not thinking through their "baggage" on international travel. If you think about it, very little that most of us carry in our billfolds is of any use when we are outside the US. Outside of credit cards, ATM cards and money, almost nothing in our wallets is of any use when on most trips. If you are driving, a driver's license can be added. I would venture to guess that for most women, 90% of the things they are dragging around in their purses here at home can very safely be left there when they are on their European trip. Years ago, I started leaving my wallet at home and carrying the essential cards, along with my passport, in secure (i.e. under my clothes) money belts and neck pouches. The only money in my pants pockets is what I think I may need for part of the day. This approach has made me feel much more secure, even when approached by pickpockets, not to mention less to keep track of. Russ On Jul 30, 2009, at 2:44 PM, Bole, Renee wrote:Roberta, I apologize if I am beating a dead horse but I am a firm believer that one must be careful everywhere particularly in any big city anywhere. The money belt and bag hung across the front of one?s body with your hand planted on top of that bag and that means even/especially in churches ,,,and you?re good to go anywhere. On a recent tour a woman had her purse picked twice in churches and continued to carry a shoulder bag hanging to her side. A co-worker had her wallet stolen when she took it out and laid it down to pay. Let common sense guide you. I don?t agree that you shouldn?t talk with strangers as that is one of the most fun serendipitous things about travel! Just trust your instincts about with whom you chat. Enjoy! Renee PS I am a fun-loving free-spirited type who has done a lot of schlepping around on my own. From: idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com [mailto:idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com] On Behalf Of Phillip King Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:32 PM To: Roberta Churchill Cc: Idyllchat Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Roberta, We have roamed the sights and streets of Barcelona 3 times -- stayed in Port Vell for a week with friends on their sailboat a couple of year ago -- and have never had a problem. I'm certainly not an imposing guy. I'm 5'11", 69 yrs. old, with gray hair and a gray beard, and I look and act like an American. We've seen and have been approached by pickpockets in Europe. I'm thinking the thieves in the US are far more dangerous than those in Europe because they are probably hopped up on drugs, while the ones in Europe just want your money. Just be aware of your surroundings, don't go walking down streets in Europe that look like you wouldn't walk in the US, and accept the fact that you are probably far safer walking around in Europe than you would be driving in America. Relax and enjoy your trip. Phil King----- Original Message -----_______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat Russ Crumrrcrum1@gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090730/09a04b0a/attachment.htm From spannrm at cableone.net Thu Jul 30 20:53:16 2009 From: spannrm at cableone.net (Michele Spann) Date: Thu Jul 30 20:33:40 2009 Subject: [Idyllchat] Thieves and Muggers Message-ID: <971E33FE60E343EBBB4110372DAC1EA6@spannrmcablePC> Phil King Wrote I'm thinking the thieves in the US are far more dangerous than those in Europe because they are probably hopped up on drugs, while the ones in Europe just want your money And in the US they probably have guns! -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090730/f94c1c63/attachment.htm From rrcrum1 at gmail.com Thu Jul 30 21:22:44 2009 From: rrcrum1 at gmail.com (Russell Crum) Date: Thu Jul 30 21:03:07 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: References: <9B0B0B8FF2328E48930D4B6273C1B26104E3B8C2@EXNODE1.univ.neiu.edu> Message-ID: <3C1062A6-1DAD-43AF-B7DF-F895C006B120@gmail.com> From under her clothes?? Mine is under my shirt. Even if the cord were cut it would simply drop down inside my shirt. I have seen people wear their neck pouch on the outside, which I have never figured out. Russ On Jul 30, 2009, at 5:41 PM, Barbara Palmer wrote: > > Be careful of anything hanging around your neck. A friend had hers > cut and removed from the back in Italy in an instant. I've never > had a problem using a money belt. > > > > > > > > > > > > From: rrcrum1@gmail.com > To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money > Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:59:47 -0400 > CC: r-bole@neiu.edu > > Renee's comment about a woman insisting on carrying her shoulder > bag and having her wallet stolen are good examples of too many folks > not thinking through their "baggage" on international travel. If you > think about it, very little that most of us carry in our billfolds > is of any use when we are outside the US. Outside of credit cards, > ATM cards and money, almost nothing in our wallets is of any use > when on most trips. If you are driving, a driver's license can be > added. I would venture to guess that for most women, 90% of the > things they are dragging around in their purses here at home can > very safely be left there when they are on their European trip. > Years ago, I started leaving my wallet at home and carrying the > essential cards, along with my passport, in secure (i.e. under my > clothes) money belts and neck pouches. The only money in my pants > pockets is what I think I may need for part of the day. This > approach has made me feel much more secure, even when approached by > pickpockets, not to mention less to keep track of. > > Russ > > On Jul 30, 2009, at 2:44 PM, Bole, Renee wrote: > > Roberta, I apologize if I am beating a dead horse but I am a firm > believer that one must be careful everywhere particularly in any big > city anywhere. The money belt and bag hung across the front of > one?s body with your hand planted on top of that bag and that means > even/especially in churches ,,,and you?re good to go anywhere. On a > recent tour a woman had her purse picked twice in churches and > continued to carry a shoulder bag hanging to her side. A co-worker > had her wallet stolen when she took it out and laid it down to pay. > Let common sense guide you. I don?t agree that you shouldn?t > talk with strangers as that is one of the most fun serendipitous > things about travel! Just trust your instincts about with whom you > chat. Enjoy! Renee PS I am a fun-loving free-spirited type who > has done a lot of schlepping around on my own. > > From: idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com [mailto:idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com > ] On Behalf Of Phillip King > Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:32 PM > To: Roberta Churchill > Cc: Idyllchat > Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money > > Roberta, > We have roamed the sights and streets of Barcelona 3 times -- > stayed in Port Vell for a week with friends on their sailboat a > couple of year ago -- and have never had a problem. > I'm certainly not an imposing guy. I'm 5'11", 69 yrs. old, with > gray hair and a gray beard, and I look and act like an American. > We've seen and have been approached by pickpockets in Europe. I'm > thinking the thieves in the US are far more dangerous than those in > Europe because they are probably hopped up on drugs, while the ones > in Europe just want your money. > Just be aware of your surroundings, don't go walking down > streets in Europe that look like you wouldn't walk in the US, and > accept the fact that you are probably far safer walking around in > Europe than you would be driving in America. > Relax and enjoy your trip. > Phil King > ----- Original Message ----- > _______________________________________________ > This message was sent by IdyllChat. > To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com > > Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ > > Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html > > Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html > To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause > delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat > > Russ Crum > rrcrum1@gmail.com > > > > > Russ Crum rrcrum1@gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090730/ff9c8492/attachment-0001.htm From r-bole at neiu.edu Fri Jul 31 09:03:05 2009 From: r-bole at neiu.edu (Bole, Renee) Date: Fri Jul 31 08:43:22 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money In-Reply-To: Message-ID: <9B0B0B8FF2328E48930D4B6273C1B26104E3B8C3@EXNODE1.univ.neiu.edu> Russ is correct. My coworker had to replace all credit cards, driver's license etc. and had to wire home for money and it was a Sunday. Anyway, it was very traumatic for her. Also important is to keep a copy of your passport at home in case you lose it and carry credit card 800 numbers incase you lose those. The other side of this whole thing is the kindness of strangers. I got very lost in Prague last month without money or map. I was on a tour so I thought all would be taken care of. Anyway, the tour group accidentally left me behind so I had to find my way back to the hotel without money, map or knowledge of the language! I encountered a saintly Czech student named Ludmilla . Coincidentally, we had just learned at the St. Vitus cathedral that Ludmilla was the name of the first Christian! She gave me money, bought me a tram ticket, went on the tram with me and put me on the correct subway! I was very touched and grateful! Don't turn your back on the many lovely people on this planet! Renee ________________________________ From: Barbara Palmer [mailto:maginnisone@hotmail.com] Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 4:41 PM To: rrcrum1@gmail.com; idyllchat@lists.untours.com Cc: Bole, Renee Subject: RE: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Be careful of anything hanging around your neck. A friend had hers cut and removed from the back in Italy in an instant. I've never had a problem using a money belt. ________________________________ From: rrcrum1@gmail.com To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:59:47 -0400 CC: r-bole@neiu.edu Renee's comment about a woman insisting on carrying her shoulder bag and having her wallet stolen are good examples of too many folks not thinking through their "baggage" on international travel. If you think about it, very little that most of us carry in our billfolds is of any use when we are outside the US. Outside of credit cards, ATM cards and money, almost nothing in our wallets is of any use when on most trips. If you are driving, a driver's license can be added. I would venture to guess that for most women, 90% of the things they are dragging around in their purses here at home can very safely be left there when they are on their European trip. Years ago, I started leaving my wallet at home and carrying the essential cards, along with my passport, in secure (i.e. under my clothes) money belts and neck pouches. The only money in my pants pockets is what I think I may need for part of the day. This approach has made me feel much more secure, even when approached by pickpockets, not to mention less to keep track of. Russ On Jul 30, 2009, at 2:44 PM, Bole, Renee wrote: Roberta, I apologize if I am beating a dead horse but I am a firm believer that one must be careful everywhere particularly in any big city anywhere. The money belt and bag hung across the front of one's body with your hand planted on top of that bag and that means even/especially in churches ,,,and you're good to go anywhere. On a recent tour a woman had her purse picked twice in churches and continued to carry a shoulder bag hanging to her side. A co-worker had her wallet stolen when she took it out and laid it down to pay. Let common sense guide you. I don't agree that you shouldn't talk with strangers as that is one of the most fun serendipitous things about travel! Just trust your instincts about with whom you chat. Enjoy! Renee PS I am a fun-loving free-spirited type who has done a lot of schlepping around on my own. ________________________________ From: idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com [mailto:idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com] On Behalf Of Phillip King Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:32 PM To: Roberta Churchill Cc: Idyllchat Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Roberta, We have roamed the sights and streets of Barcelona 3 times -- stayed in Port Vell for a week with friends on their sailboat a couple of year ago -- and have never had a problem. I'm certainly not an imposing guy. I'm 5'11", 69 yrs. old, with gray hair and a gray beard, and I look and act like an American. We've seen and have been approached by pickpockets in Europe. I'm thinking the thieves in the US are far more dangerous than those in Europe because they are probably hopped up on drugs, while the ones in Europe just want your money. Just be aware of your surroundings, don't go walking down streets in Europe that look like you wouldn't walk in the US, and accept the fact that you are probably far safer walking around in Europe than you would be driving in America. Relax and enjoy your trip. Phil King ----- Original Message ----- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat Russ Crum rrcrum1@gmail.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/attachments/20090731/9f954959/attachment.htm From dmatick at optonline.net Fri Jul 31 21:41:13 2009 From: dmatick at optonline.net (doris matick) Date: Fri Jul 31 21:21:31 2009 Subject: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money References: <9B0B0B8FF2328E48930D4B6273C1B26104E3B8C3@EXNODE1.univ.neiu.edu> Message-ID: <1A05CDCCAE3048E0AC2A756841831887@your4dacd0ea75> What a beautiful story Renee. Thank God for the Ludmillas of this world wherever we may find them. There are many truly wonderful people on this planet and I'm so happy one of them was there when you needed her. I'm glad you shared your story with us. Travel is a special gift that helps us learn so much about the goodness of others. Prague is a beautiful city and Ludmilla is one of its treasures. Doris ----- Original Message ----- From: Bole, Renee To: Barbara Palmer ; rrcrum1@gmail.com ; idyllchat@lists.untours.com Sent: Friday, July 31, 2009 9:03 AM Subject: RE: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Russ is correct. My coworker had to replace all credit cards, driver's license etc. and had to wire home for money and it was a Sunday. Anyway, it was very traumatic for her. Also important is to keep a copy of your passport at home in case you lose it and carry credit card 800 numbers incase you lose those. The other side of this whole thing is the kindness of strangers. I got very lost in Prague last month without money or map. I was on a tour so I thought all would be taken care of. Anyway, the tour group accidentally left me behind so I had to find my way back to the hotel without money, map or knowledge of the language! I encountered a saintly Czech student named Ludmilla . Coincidentally, we had just learned at the St. Vitus cathedral that Ludmilla was the name of the first Christian! She gave me money, bought me a tram ticket, went on the tram with me and put me on the correct subway! I was very touched and grateful! Don't turn your back on the many lovely people on this planet! Renee ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ From: Barbara Palmer [mailto:maginnisone@hotmail.com] Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 4:41 PM To: rrcrum1@gmail.com; idyllchat@lists.untours.com Cc: Bole, Renee Subject: RE: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Be careful of anything hanging around your neck. A friend had hers cut and removed from the back in Italy in an instant. I've never had a problem using a money belt. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ From: rrcrum1@gmail.com To: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:59:47 -0400 CC: r-bole@neiu.edu Renee's comment about a woman insisting on carrying her shoulder bag and having her wallet stolen are good examples of too many folks not thinking through their "baggage" on international travel. If you think about it, very little that most of us carry in our billfolds is of any use when we are outside the US. Outside of credit cards, ATM cards and money, almost nothing in our wallets is of any use when on most trips. If you are driving, a driver's license can be added. I would venture to guess that for most women, 90% of the things they are dragging around in their purses here at home can very safely be left there when they are on their European trip. Years ago, I started leaving my wallet at home and carrying the essential cards, along with my passport, in secure (i.e. under my clothes) money belts and neck pouches. The only money in my pants pockets is what I think I may need for part of the day. This approach has made me feel much more secure, even when approached by pickpockets, not to mention less to keep track of. Russ On Jul 30, 2009, at 2:44 PM, Bole, Renee wrote: Roberta, I apologize if I am beating a dead horse but I am a firm believer that one must be careful everywhere particularly in any big city anywhere. The money belt and bag hung across the front of one's body with your hand planted on top of that bag and that means even/especially in churches ,,,and you're good to go anywhere. On a recent tour a woman had her purse picked twice in churches and continued to carry a shoulder bag hanging to her side. A co-worker had her wallet stolen when she took it out and laid it down to pay. Let common sense guide you. I don't agree that you shouldn't talk with strangers as that is one of the most fun serendipitous things about travel! Just trust your instincts about with whom you chat. Enjoy! Renee PS I am a fun-loving free-spirited type who has done a lot of schlepping around on my own. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com [mailto:idyllchat-bounces@lists.untours.com] On Behalf Of Phillip King Sent: Thursday, July 30, 2009 1:32 PM To: Roberta Churchill Cc: Idyllchat Subject: Re: [Bulk] [Idyllchat] Paris and Money Roberta, We have roamed the sights and streets of Barcelona 3 times -- stayed in Port Vell for a week with friends on their sailboat a couple of year ago -- and have never had a problem. I'm certainly not an imposing guy. I'm 5'11", 69 yrs. old, with gray hair and a gray beard, and I look and act like an American. We've seen and have been approached by pickpockets in Europe. I'm thinking the thieves in the US are far more dangerous than those in Europe because they are probably hopped up on drugs, while the ones in Europe just want your money. Just be aware of your surroundings, don't go walking down streets in Europe that look like you wouldn't walk in the US, and accept the fact that you are probably far safer walking around in Europe than you would be driving in America. Relax and enjoy your trip. Phil King ----- Original Message ----- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. To reply or send a new message, email to: IdyllChat@lists.untours.com Visit the IdyllChat archives: http://mailman.dca.net/pipermail/idyllchat/ Search Idyllchat Archives for any subject at: http://search.dca.net/sites/untours/main.html Read real Untourists' candid accounts of their Untours: http://www.untours.com/triplogs.html To unsubscribe, change to digest delivery, or temporarily pause delivery, visit: http://mailman.dca.net/mailman/listinfo/idyllchat Russ Crum rrcrum1@gmail.com ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -- _______________________________________________ This message was sent by IdyllChat. 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