At times, your lodging can make or break a vacation. I really enjoy staying in Bed and Breakfasts over hotels. They have a more personal touch and you can meet some great people from the area you are visiting; and out of the country, they are often cheaper than hotels.
A top-notch hotel, at a great price, can also be wonderful. The trick is finding the right place. Following this entry, I have listed two very helpful travel sites that rate and review accomodations. Here are some specific websites that can aid in the search for the perfect place to lay your head.
http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/
- This site has the most comprehensive selection of B&B's around the world
http://www.bedandbreakfastnationwide.com/ - England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales
http://www.hotels-paris.fr/en/ - Hotels all around Paris, many that are small and not the normal chains
http://www.visitfrance.co.uk/ - Lists hotels, apartments, Bed and Breakfasts, and Holiday homes available in France, along with photos, arranged by area
(If you are going to be in a place for more than 4 days, consider a holiday house. They are amazingly affordable and you usually get the entire home to yourselves, with all you would need for day to day life.)
Conde' Nast Traveler magazine, Nov. 2008 issue, has an informative article about B&B in large cities in the USA, "Big-City B&B's". Included in the article are helpful tips on choosing and using B&B's, as well as descriptions of a few Bed & Breakfasts in a few metropolis areas.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
virtualtourist.com
This is a travel site where people from around the world give personal travel tips of their homeland and the places they have visited. You can find recommendations for hotels, restaurants, places to see (even those that only locals know), and find out dangers to be aware of and to avoid. You do not have to be a member, but if you are you can email and receive email from other members around the world and ask for tips on specific towns, areas, etc. It's hit or miss to get a reply. Before our trip to Europe I received several emails from a great guy in southern France, as well as a reply from a gal in Switzerland about where to find great fondue. However, some emails remained unanswered. It all depends on how often a member checks their email. www.VirtualTourist.com
Monday, September 29, 2008
TripAdvisor.com
This is a GREAT travel website! People from all over the world have added information about hotels, bed and breakfasts, places of interest, etc. There are also reviews from "real" people for just about everything: ie. restaurants, hotels, etc. Often you can even log onto websites for the hotel, etc. from http://www.tripadvisor.com/ . I like to research hotels in an area and then go to this site and see what the reviews are on the place. I trust these reviews more than I trust reviews and descriptions given on the hotel site. You don't have to be a member to access the information. If you choose to be a site member, you get periodic emails highlighting areas and travel information. There's no fee. Check this site out! You'll love it too!
Example of Review: subject: Neuschwanstein
What Our Users Are Saying Results 1 - 10 of 1,492 for neuschwanstein
Review: Wellvital Hotel Ruebezahl, Schwangau
Great place near Neuschwanstein October 16, 2005 Pesca7, Denver, Colorado ... Had a great view of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwanstein ... ... was great with lavish table settings and fresh flowers. Staff was attentive and pleasant. The hotel arranged our tickets for viewing the Neuschwanstein castle
Example of Review: subject: Neuschwanstein
What Our Users Are Saying Results 1 - 10 of 1,492 for neuschwanstein
Review: Wellvital Hotel Ruebezahl, Schwangau
Great place near Neuschwanstein October 16, 2005 Pesca7, Denver, Colorado ... Had a great view of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwanstein ... ... was great with lavish table settings and fresh flowers. Staff was attentive and pleasant. The hotel arranged our tickets for viewing the Neuschwanstein castle
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Car Rental
I have found that the best deals are usually on the internet. Also, the farther out you make a reservation, generally, the lower the price. Reserve the size of car that you will need. Notice I didn't say want. If you have 4 people and 5 suitcases, don't reserve the cheap compact car, hoping that the car company will have overbooked and upgrade you to a midsize for the same price. This can happen, but often does not. Book the size of car you must have and then be pleasantly surprised if you are upgraded to something even bigger. If you want luxury, go ahead and rent luxury.
Also, be aware that some travel sites (such as travelocity.com, etc.) offer cheaper prices if you book the hotel and car rental with them. However, this is not always the case, so check the car rental site and hotel site and see the separate prices and then compare the package price and choose the best deal.
If you are traveling through Europe, and plan to visit England as well as mainland Europe, you might want to rent the car from a mainland nation, unless you don't mind driving a car with the driver's seat on the right-hand side of the car during your entire trip. Also in Europe, you might prefer a mid-size or smaller car because the roads and parking spaces are smaller than here in the US. I don't recommend taking a car into London or Paris unless absolutely necessary. The traffic is heavy, the parking impossible and expensive, and it can take an hour or more just to get out or in the city to main highways.
Rental insurance: See my notes below for more information, but I want to touch on a few points. First let me say I'm all for opting out of the companies insurance coverage, but there are a few things that you might want to consider before doing it. In 2008, many car rental companies have included a "Loss of use" clause in their policy. This means that not only will they bill you for any damage that occurs in an accident, but they will also charge you for the time the car was out of commission and unable to bring in revenue from future rentals. Many companies will not tell you about this clause, so do some asking yourself and read the fine print. Some credit card companies and regular car insurance will not cover this "loss of use expense". This is probably a way for the car rental companies to 'encourage' us to buy their coverage, but whatever the reason, it is something to seriously consider. As always, check what your credit card and car insurance covers before your trip.
Personal Experience: When my husband and I were in Europe for two weeks, we opted out of the insurance. We backed into a french detective while in Paris, and later took a huge rock chip that became a spider while driving up to the English Channel. In hind sight, $300 would have lifted a lot of our subsequent worry and stress. (Our credit card company ended up paying for everything, but it took over 3 months to get reimbursed and was a hassle. This was on top of the added worry for the remainder of the trip while we wondered if we would be reimbursed.)
Also, be aware that some travel sites (such as travelocity.com, etc.) offer cheaper prices if you book the hotel and car rental with them. However, this is not always the case, so check the car rental site and hotel site and see the separate prices and then compare the package price and choose the best deal.
If you are traveling through Europe, and plan to visit England as well as mainland Europe, you might want to rent the car from a mainland nation, unless you don't mind driving a car with the driver's seat on the right-hand side of the car during your entire trip. Also in Europe, you might prefer a mid-size or smaller car because the roads and parking spaces are smaller than here in the US. I don't recommend taking a car into London or Paris unless absolutely necessary. The traffic is heavy, the parking impossible and expensive, and it can take an hour or more just to get out or in the city to main highways.
Rental insurance: See my notes below for more information, but I want to touch on a few points. First let me say I'm all for opting out of the companies insurance coverage, but there are a few things that you might want to consider before doing it. In 2008, many car rental companies have included a "Loss of use" clause in their policy. This means that not only will they bill you for any damage that occurs in an accident, but they will also charge you for the time the car was out of commission and unable to bring in revenue from future rentals. Many companies will not tell you about this clause, so do some asking yourself and read the fine print. Some credit card companies and regular car insurance will not cover this "loss of use expense". This is probably a way for the car rental companies to 'encourage' us to buy their coverage, but whatever the reason, it is something to seriously consider. As always, check what your credit card and car insurance covers before your trip.
Personal Experience: When my husband and I were in Europe for two weeks, we opted out of the insurance. We backed into a french detective while in Paris, and later took a huge rock chip that became a spider while driving up to the English Channel. In hind sight, $300 would have lifted a lot of our subsequent worry and stress. (Our credit card company ended up paying for everything, but it took over 3 months to get reimbursed and was a hassle. This was on top of the added worry for the remainder of the trip while we wondered if we would be reimbursed.)
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Cash For Your Trip
When traveling within the US, getting cash along the way is rarely a problem. All you need is a Debit Card and a ATM or use the "cash back" feature at a store, and you are on your way. It is still a wise idea to have a few 20's stashed somewhere for emergencies. I like having "untouchable cash" on the trip - money that is only for emergencies, not inconveniences. It can make a tough situation go a lot smoother.
When traveling outside of the US, having the right currency is a bit trickier. Here are a few tips:
1. Track the exchange rate between the dollar and the currency of the country/countries you plan to visit as soon as you decide to travel. If the dollar looks like it's weakening, you might want to exchange some cash early. If the dollar looks like it's gaining strength, waiting until the date of travel is near to exchange your money is better.
2. Where to exchange your money before you leave: I have found that large financial institutions can be best. For members, the exchange is often free, and for nonmembers it is usually a low, flat rate. (For example: I was charged $5 at a bank to exchange $500 for Euros in December and then $5 when I exchanged $900 in the spring.) Then the money is changed at a slightly higher rate than posted on exchange sites. Shop around before you exchange.
3. Plan what you want to spend on souvenirs, eating out, odds and ends, and see what Accomodations require cash only. Take the total amount for cash only lodging and add that to 50% of the total of the other items. This is how much cash you will probably need. This is how much cash I like to take with me. If you do not feel comfortable with that much cash on hand, take at least half of the amount.
4. Currency Exchange locations in foreign countries can charge a high exchange fee. You will usually get a better rate on a Debit Card. Check with your finance institution to see what their charges and fees will be.
*One thing to note, when using an ATM in a foreign country, there is the usual charge from the ATM company, which can be higher than ATM fees in the States.
5. Traveler's Cheques can be an option. I would not recommend using these as your main form of payment. They have the convenience of being easier to replace than cash, but many places do not accept them. Small towns and villiages and small local shops and restaurants do not accept Traveler's Cheques, so check out the places you plan to visit and get a feel for what you will likely need as a form of payment for goods and services. Places that cater to tour groups tend to be more Cheque friendly. Check with you tour company for more information.
When traveling outside of the US, having the right currency is a bit trickier. Here are a few tips:
1. Track the exchange rate between the dollar and the currency of the country/countries you plan to visit as soon as you decide to travel. If the dollar looks like it's weakening, you might want to exchange some cash early. If the dollar looks like it's gaining strength, waiting until the date of travel is near to exchange your money is better.
2. Where to exchange your money before you leave: I have found that large financial institutions can be best. For members, the exchange is often free, and for nonmembers it is usually a low, flat rate. (For example: I was charged $5 at a bank to exchange $500 for Euros in December and then $5 when I exchanged $900 in the spring.) Then the money is changed at a slightly higher rate than posted on exchange sites. Shop around before you exchange.
3. Plan what you want to spend on souvenirs, eating out, odds and ends, and see what Accomodations require cash only. Take the total amount for cash only lodging and add that to 50% of the total of the other items. This is how much cash you will probably need. This is how much cash I like to take with me. If you do not feel comfortable with that much cash on hand, take at least half of the amount.
4. Currency Exchange locations in foreign countries can charge a high exchange fee. You will usually get a better rate on a Debit Card. Check with your finance institution to see what their charges and fees will be.
*One thing to note, when using an ATM in a foreign country, there is the usual charge from the ATM company, which can be higher than ATM fees in the States.
5. Traveler's Cheques can be an option. I would not recommend using these as your main form of payment. They have the convenience of being easier to replace than cash, but many places do not accept them. Small towns and villiages and small local shops and restaurants do not accept Traveler's Cheques, so check out the places you plan to visit and get a feel for what you will likely need as a form of payment for goods and services. Places that cater to tour groups tend to be more Cheque friendly. Check with you tour company for more information.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Credit Cards
A credit card is a useful accessory on a trip. When traveling internationally, many places, such as small stores, attractions, and gas stations, do not accept "American" credit cards. It's something about the card reading system. European credit cards have a chip in them. Our card did not, so they couldn't always be read or the owners were nervous to take them, thus weren't accepted. Be prepared with cash on hand.
Check with your credit card company for their coverage and charges on the following items:
1. Does it cover rental car damage/theft/claim copay?
2. What are the fees/cost of international currency exchange?
*It is also a good idea to notify the company that you will be traveling, so they will not suspend use of the card when they see charges in areas other than your home local; especially if you plan to be traveling across state or national boundaries.
*Most Credit Cards are second insurance to your primary car insurance. They will pay the deductible that your primary insurance company charges. Some then become primary once you leave your country.
*There is also a limit of the car rental period they will cover. It ranges from a week to 30 days. Check with your company before reserving the car.
*Each card has some countries they will not cover car rental issues if you rent the car there. You can often return the car in those countries, just not rent from there. As with everything - Check First.
*Most credit cards require that you decline all coverage from the rental car company (though not liability coverage if the card doesn't offer it) ie: theft protection, damage, etc., or they won't cover damage. Check.
I have only had experience with a few credit card companies, but this is what I've found (again: I do not guarantee any info - make sure you check with your credit card even if listed, because policies change all the time. This information is from Sept. 2008):
Citibank Card: (Platinum)
Car rental: Doesn't cover liability. Becomes primary insurance outside of US. Covers up to 15 day rentals. This card covered the windshield damage to a rental car in Europe in 2008 without fuss, though it did take 8 weeks for them to finish processing the claim. We needed a note from our primary car insurance company to prove that they didn't extend coverage outside the United States.
International Currency Exchange: 3% Foreign Transaction Fee (charged at end of statement in one lump sum); Exchange rate taken from day of charge
American Express: (Gold)
Car rental: Doesn't cover liability. Becomes primary outside US. Covers up to 30 day rentals and $50,000 or less vehicle. Does not cover rentals in New Zealand, Australia, Italy, Ireland, Jamaica, Israel.
International Currency Exchange: 2% fee per transaction (included in each individual charge); Exchange rate taken from rate posted day of charge
*On the toll ways in France, American Express was the only "American" card accepted. Our MasterCard and Visa would not work. Due to the high cost of the tolls and the frequency we used the freeway system, having this card saved us from using all our cash.
Capital One: (Platinum)
Car rental: Doesn't cover liability. Becomes primary outside US. Does not cover any type of truck, recreation vehicles, motorcycles. Does not cover rentals in Ireland, Jamaica, Israel. Covers up to 15 day rentals in US, 31 day rentals outside US.
International Currency Exchange: No Transaction Fee; Exchange rate taken from day of charge - and rate for each charge is shown under transaction
*We could have saved $50 in Internation Finance Exchange fees if we had checked first and used this card for all purchases.
Check with your credit card company for their coverage and charges on the following items:
1. Does it cover rental car damage/theft/claim copay?
2. What are the fees/cost of international currency exchange?
*It is also a good idea to notify the company that you will be traveling, so they will not suspend use of the card when they see charges in areas other than your home local; especially if you plan to be traveling across state or national boundaries.
*Most Credit Cards are second insurance to your primary car insurance. They will pay the deductible that your primary insurance company charges. Some then become primary once you leave your country.
*There is also a limit of the car rental period they will cover. It ranges from a week to 30 days. Check with your company before reserving the car.
*Each card has some countries they will not cover car rental issues if you rent the car there. You can often return the car in those countries, just not rent from there. As with everything - Check First.
*Most credit cards require that you decline all coverage from the rental car company (though not liability coverage if the card doesn't offer it) ie: theft protection, damage, etc., or they won't cover damage. Check.
I have only had experience with a few credit card companies, but this is what I've found (again: I do not guarantee any info - make sure you check with your credit card even if listed, because policies change all the time. This information is from Sept. 2008):
Citibank Card: (Platinum)
Car rental: Doesn't cover liability. Becomes primary insurance outside of US. Covers up to 15 day rentals. This card covered the windshield damage to a rental car in Europe in 2008 without fuss, though it did take 8 weeks for them to finish processing the claim. We needed a note from our primary car insurance company to prove that they didn't extend coverage outside the United States.
International Currency Exchange: 3% Foreign Transaction Fee (charged at end of statement in one lump sum); Exchange rate taken from day of charge
American Express: (Gold)
Car rental: Doesn't cover liability. Becomes primary outside US. Covers up to 30 day rentals and $50,000 or less vehicle. Does not cover rentals in New Zealand, Australia, Italy, Ireland, Jamaica, Israel.
International Currency Exchange: 2% fee per transaction (included in each individual charge); Exchange rate taken from rate posted day of charge
*On the toll ways in France, American Express was the only "American" card accepted. Our MasterCard and Visa would not work. Due to the high cost of the tolls and the frequency we used the freeway system, having this card saved us from using all our cash.
Capital One: (Platinum)
Car rental: Doesn't cover liability. Becomes primary outside US. Does not cover any type of truck, recreation vehicles, motorcycles. Does not cover rentals in Ireland, Jamaica, Israel. Covers up to 15 day rentals in US, 31 day rentals outside US.
International Currency Exchange: No Transaction Fee; Exchange rate taken from day of charge - and rate for each charge is shown under transaction
*We could have saved $50 in Internation Finance Exchange fees if we had checked first and used this card for all purchases.
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