For anyone who has been on the RS Spain tour, are walking sticks helpful or needed. We were on the RS Greece tour last year and would have found them helpful. Is there significant amount of hill or trail or stair climbing? Thanks.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
I think it depends on the person if a walking stick, cane, etc., is helpful.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15784 posts
I haven't been on the Greece tour . . . yet. I imagine that a walking stick would be useful there for archeological sites. Pretty much everywhere in Spain is paved (at least where the tours go), though parts of Toledo, Granada, Segovia and Arcos include steep (paved) hills and part of the trail down the gorge in Ronda isn't paved and is challenging for some. What may be useful is the "museum seat" that folds up and can be used like a cane, but also opens so you can sit when the tour stops for explanations.
Posted by
33 posts
If you have trouble with stairs and standing for long stretches, they would definitely help.
Lots and lots of stairs on this tour!
Posted by
Lynnwood, Washington
8882 posts
Just a heads up that unless you can fit these in your checked bag, you may or may not make it through airport security leaving the US. Some report no problems, while others (including myself) have had TSA not allow these as carry on items. I don't think there is ever an issue with a cane, but walking sticks that people use while hiking are officially not allowed as carry ons. You may get luck and get through, but be prepared for the possibility. No problem in checked luggage or buy them in Europe.
Posted by
Edmonton, Alberta
797 posts
I just finished the tour. I am not particularly fit but did just fine on the tour. My only problem was sore feet after long days, much of it my choice to spend free time walking about/standing in museums.
The guides are wonderful about ensuring a pace for everyone. I just took it slow on the hills in Arcos, stopping for photos when needed to catch my breath! Arcos is a hill town and we stayed at the top, fabulous views!
Imho, the sticks would be overkill. Packing light is important.