Rick Steves' Europe Video - TopPodcast.com

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European Travel Skills: Hurdling the Language Barrier Mar 27, 2013

Show notes

Today's Europe is increasingly bilingual — and lucky for us English is its second language. You can manage just fine by being polite and by speaking clearly and slowly. Starting conversations with "Do you speak English?" in the local language shows you are willing to try and is appreciated. Communicate with curiosity and an appetite for learning local lingo and gestures. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

European Travel Skills: Driving in Europe Mar 20, 2013

Show notes

Renting a car and driving in Europe is a breeze — cars get great mileage, distances are usually short, and roads are in excellent condition. Driving is ideal for countryside-focused trips and gives you maximum mobility. Clear signage makes navigation easy. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

European Travel Skills: Arrival in Europe Mar 13, 2013

Show notes

Upon arrival in Europe, getting settled and oriented is a snap. Your first stop should be a tourist information booth, where you can pick up a map and ask questions. Zip into town on the efficient local public transit system to reach your hotel. Conquer jet lag by staying active in the fresh air before going to bed at an early local bedtime. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com

European Travel Skills: Packing Light Mar 06, 2013

Show notes

Packing light is essential for happy, hassle-free travel. Choose your luggage carefully — a carry-on sized convertible backpack/suitcase is the best bet for most travelers. As you pack, carefully scrutinize each item (clothing, electronics, toiletries, etc.) to see if it justifies hauling it around. The payoff is sweet mobility, freedom and a better trip. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

European Travel Skills: Planning Your Itinerary Feb 27, 2013

Show notes

Developing a thoughtful itinerary helps make the most of a trip. Start by brainstorming a must-see wish list in logical geographic order, then pare it down based upon time and interest. Time spent planning will pay off later and help ensure rich, rewarding and efficient trip. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Keswick, England: Communing with Nature Feb 20, 2013

Show notes

Located on a beautiful lake known as Derwentwater, Keswick is the ideal home base in North Lake District. The town's fine old buildings recall those Romantic era-days when big city folks flocked here to "commune with nature." Today, compact Keswick is well-stocked with plenty of welcoming B-and-Bs, hiking-gear shops and plenty of kid- and dog-friendly pubs. A scenic boat cruise takes you to a rugged trail leading up to a scenic peak called Catbells for a stunning Lake District panorama. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Florence, Italy: Strolling the Oltrarno Neighborhood Feb 13, 2013

Show notes

There's much more to Florence than the touristy zone north of the Arno River. To discover rustic, old Florence cross the river and dive into the colorful Oltrarno district. Wander the back lanes and you'll find artisans practicing centuries-old crafts like picture framing, violin making and more. Finish your day at a Florentine steakhouse, which as any meat lover knows means sampling the tender, local Chianina beef, which goes well with a glass of Chianti. Salute! For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

European Travel Skills: Riding the Rails Feb 06, 2013

Show notes

The European train system works great for locals and travelers alike, with well-signed stations, easily accessed schedules, and efficient connections between popular destinations. First-time train travelers get the hang of it faster than they expect. Generally, European trains go where you need them to go and are fast, frequent, and affordable. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

Venice, Italy: Romantic Gondolas Jan 30, 2013

Show notes

One of Europe's great experiences is a Venetian gondola ride. An expensive rip-off for some, this peaceful glide through the canals is a traditional must for romantics. Wait till early evening, when the crowds diminish and the light is right. Choose a gondolier whose personality you enjoy, settle on a price, hop in, sit back and enjoy the magic of Venice. A visit to a gondola workshop provides a fascinating look at the age-old craftsmanship of these sleek, graceful boats. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

London, England: The Docklands Jan 23, 2013

Show notes

Survey London's skyline (or a Tube map), and it becomes clear that this grand city is shifting east. The thundering heart of this new London is the Docklands. Nestled around a hairpin bend in the Thames, this area was a gritty, bustling harbor and warehouse district back in the 19th century, when Britannia ruled the waves. Neglected for decades, today it's been gentrified into a futuristic, skyscraper-filled landscape rising from the canals and docks. For more information on the Rick Steves' Europe TV series — including episode descriptions, scripts, participating stations, travel information on destinations and more — visit www.ricksteves.com.

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