Hi everyone,
I recently went on my first RS tour. I usually do Europe independently, but this time thought it would fun to try an actual Rick Steves tour. I'd have to say that I LOVED it!!!! There was so much free time everyday. It made traveling much easier - no need to worry about the hotels, the transpo, tickets to museums etc. The restaurants were fabulous - we ate so well. For those thinking about taking an RS tour - they are not kidding when they say that walking is strenuous. I had no problem with the walking; it was the standing in the museums that killed my feet. Also, yes, Italians are very stylish. For those who want to opt for style over comfort while traveling - be prepared! They know you're a tourist. They know you're American. Dress for comfort and your body will love you. (Remember you are walking around on cobblestone almost all day!) Oh, and don't forget the bug spray!!!!! The insects in Venice will treat you like a buffet at night. =)
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32318 posts
Hazel,
Welcome back! You might find it interesting to read the Post on "Italy Withdrawal" elsewhere on the Helpline. Also, be sure to read the "Tour Feedback" comments for your tour. I always find that interesting.
I also find that standing rather than walking was more stressful on my feet. I have new shoes now, so am well prepared for my next tour and anxious to try them out!
My travel method lately has been a RS tour of about two weeks, along with an equal amount of time for self guided travel. So far it's been fantastic and I can hardly wait for my next trip!
Cheers!
Posted by
Twin Cities, Minnesota
1948 posts
Hazel, I absolutely agree. As an independent traveler I was thrilled with my 14 Day Village Tour of Italy this past spring. In fact, I immediately scheduled a 7 Day in Rome tour for Christmas week and have already signed up for 9 Days in Sicily next Sept. The RS tours really take all the hassle out of traveling and provide good company, when you want it, to solo travelers. I, too schedule a few days before and a few days after on my own.
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
Hazel, I too have travelled many times independently to Europe( although primarily to France ) but this year took my first tour.
Took my 12 yr old on a RS Family 14 day Europe tour, and we both loved it. Our trip was 26 days long, but the tour covered 14 of them,, I loved the ability to take my daughter for a quick taste of 4 or 5 other countries , in such a short time and no hassles at all for me. We also spent time in Paris independently before and after the tour. So got the best of both worlds.
The tour handled getting us from city to city, country to country quickly and efficently, and also we had prebooked admissions to all the busy sites, so no line waiting, nor did I have have to book things online in advance. Could have done the same trip on our own, but, would not have been able to do it as efficently, and would have had to make some time consuming detours off main routes, ( like when we saw the "Ice Man" Mummie in the Tirol Museum in Bolonga( think I spelt that wrong, but , point is it is not on main routing from Florence to Austria.
I think a mix of tour and independent travel is great, and the RS tours are very good. I have been to Paris many times, and thought I might just ditch the group in Paris and do last two days on our own, but stayed with group for two reasons, first, daughter wanted to stay with her new friends, and second, they private tour they arranged at Louvre was very good( they used Paris Walks) , I was impressed enough to want to stay with group( ok, I actually really enjoyed the other members company too!).
I know I am not one that is comfortable renting a car and travelling alone, but, when I travel with my husband that is likely what we will do, hubby lived in Germany while a younger man and loves driving, so not a problem for him, but, for those who like me want to see some off the train station cities and sites, and don't want to rent a car, then the RS tours are a pretty good way to do it.