Hello,
Sorry, this is going to be long.
I know that Rick Steves tours are not for everyone, but I want to express why I enjoyed my first RS tour (BOE21 in 2022) and why I signed up for another (GAS 2024). I am what I call a secret introvert. I push myself to participate and do new things. It is not easy, but it is worth it in the end.
The RS tour allowed me to see and experience new things in a ‘safe’ environment. But also taught me to navigate new things and spread my wings on my own. It also allowed me to self-isolate if I needed to.
Two examples of spreading my wings. Venice - With the encouragement and help of our guide (Andy) I was able to make it to the correct Vaporetto and explore the outer island of Burano. Paris – With the lessons on using public transportation I made it out to the Palace of Versailles. Both times I made it back to home base and did not end up inadvertently in Istanbul.
Before the tour, I made a deal with myself. Try the food even if it is not something I normally would try. This is the best deal I made. I am not typically a soup person. However, the Carrot Ginger Soup we had at Hotel Restaurant Altkölnischer Hof was absolutely divine (almost stole bowls from my fellow tour mates). Tried monkfish in Venice – wasn’t horrible, not something I would go out of my way to order, but that is not the point – I tried it and I didn’t die. Escargot in Paris, loved it (really can’t go wrong with that butter and garlic).
One thing I am doing differently this time. I will do a little more pre-planning. I am an overplanner/thinker. I purposely did not plan or look up anything beforehand. (With the exception of the Palace of Versailles) I wanted to go with what was happening at the time. That I found for me was a mistake. So, this time around I am researching sights I would/might like to explore on my own time. Maybe not planning every minute of my free time but have an idea of what my options are.
The one thing I learned is - Have a good and positive attitude. Whether you are with a tour group or traveling on your own. Going in with a positive attitude will make a world of difference. Yes, there are going to be crowds and lines. Guess what? - A lot of other people want to see the same things you do. Having a bad attitude and complaining is not going to make them go away. Use the time to meet new people, people-watch, or meditate. If something is closed use that as an opportunity to see something you may not have thought of. Trust me – going into it with a good attitude will let you come out with a good experience. Remember you are seeing and experiencing things you would not be if you were sitting at home.
Thank You for letting me spill
Happy Travels
Suzie