Rick Steves' Europe
Restaurant rules
After graduating from high school, I took my first trip to Europe without my parents or much money. I subsisted entirely on jam, baguettes and Fanta. When I returned home, my doctor declared me “chronically undernourished.” I’ve never had a jam sandwich or Fanta since.
What’s new in France and Spain for 2011
Despite the economic downturn, France and Spain spent millions of euros last year to upgrade their public spaces and technology for visitors.
Biking — a bridge over cultural barriers
Some travelers are surprised when I tell them to consider biking in Europe. I explain that it’s not only a cheap way to travel but it gets you close to the ground and close to the people.
How to rent a car in Europe
My own travel style has evolved over the years. In the past I generally bought one big, fat, wonderful railpass for my entire trip. These days, I cobble together a few cheap flights within Europe, some rail trips and a modest car rental (which I find is becoming a better value than rail).
Taxi tips for travelers
When people ask me about the scariest situation I’ve ever been in, I think back to a taxi ride I took to the Moscow airport in the early ’90s.
Top tips for smart shopping in Europe
Shopping in Europe can be fun, but not if you let it overwhelm your trip. I like to shop smart, spending my time — and money — efficiently. Based on three decades of travel, here are my top tips for shopping in Europe.
Taking your taste buds on a European tour
Eating and drinking in Europe is sightseeing for your taste buds. Every country has local specialties that are good, memorable or both. Here are many of the fun experiences that stick in my mind after 30 years of travel. Seek out any of these on your next trip.
How I pack for Europe
Wearing a green T-shirt under a blue work shirt, I was about to depart for Europe. At my farewell breakfast — one last eggs-any-style — my stylish, college-aged daughter said to me, “You look like a scrub. Okay if you’re painting a house.”
Tourist, beware: Europe’s latest travel scams
• Gelato in hand, you’re strolling down a street in Italy when suddenly an attractive woman starts arguing with a street vendor. A crowd gathers as he accuses her of shoplifting. To prove her innocence, she starts to strip.
The sleaze of fees
On my last trip to Europe, I didn’t take my usual $200 cash reserve. With just a few bucks in my wallet, I landed in Madrid, relying entirely on two ATM cards and no cash safety net. It turned out okay.
Techie tips for travelers
My mantra being “pack light,” I used to be against packing electronics of any kind. But now I bring my laptop, iPod, digital camera and mobile phone to Europe.
Affordable Europe
Given the economy, the number-one question I’ve gotten lately from people is whether to go to Europe or not.
What’s new in Britain and Ireland for 2009
While updating my guidebooks for 2009, I found plenty of changes in Britain and Ireland.