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Post by laughinggirl on Sept 8, 2008 17:41:32 GMT -5
A friend and I have decided that before joining the real world we would go traveling around Europe.
We don't have our route planned yet are having difficulties knowing where to begin. We start the second week of January 09, and are returning 4-6 months later :-) Depending on how our money holds out.
Being from the frozen north of Canada it would be nice to not be cold for one winter so I was thinking starting in the Greek Islands and working our way north. I NEED HELP!!!
We want to see as many places as possible we were thinking
Greece, Italy, France, Spain, Switzerland, and possibly jumping into Africa as well.
Any advice would be loved and treasured!!!!
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Post by Eagle on Sept 8, 2008 23:09:22 GMT -5
laughingirl, Welcome! A few thoughts on your trip plans......
First of all, with your time frame of 4-6 months, you'll have to ensure that you don't exceed the 3-month limit of the Schengen Agreement. Basically, non-EU residents are allowed a maximum of three months, and must obtain an extension Visa for stays longer than that (I understand these are rarely granted). If you travel to a non-Schengen country, I believe you have to stay there for a set length of time before you're eligible to re-enter the Schengen zone.
I agree, it's great to get out of the Canadian winters! I "escaped" to Hawaii for 10 days last winter, and will probably do the same again this winter if possible.
The Greek Islands are probably not a real good choice for winter travel, as many of the tourist facilities close down. Some of our other members here are more familiar with that, so I'm sure they will be able to provide further information.
France (south) and Spain should also be OK (herrbert, any comments?). Your best bet to escape winter in Italy is to focus on Rome and the south. Switzerland will likely be much the same as Canada. One area you might consider is the Algarve region of Portugal. It's a popular winter destination, especially with travellers from the U.K. and seems to get lots of sunshine.
As this appears to be your first trip to Europe, I'd highly recommend reading the Guidebook Europe Through The Back Door, as it provides LOTS of excellent information on all aspects of travelling in Europe (including Itinerary planning and one of the most informative chapters, "Rail Skills").
You didn't indicate what sort of budget you'll be working with?
Good luck with your planning!
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Post by crystal on Sept 9, 2008 16:05:28 GMT -5
I have to agree with Eagle the Greek Islands will be VERY quiet because not only have the tourists left and businesses closed but most people who live there in summer go 'home' in the winter.
I think your best bet to jump into Africa will come through Spain. I have seen some good deals around at the minute.
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Post by herrbert on Sept 12, 2008 5:09:42 GMT -5
Spain can be ok in the winter, but if you are looking for nice temperatures, you need to go to Andalucía. Granada is in/near to the mountains of the Sierra Neveda, and therefor pretty cold, but Sevilla, Malaga, Jerez and Cadiz will have some higher temperatures.
Jumping into Africa from Spain, can be done by crossing over to Tanger by boat, but it is not the nicest place in Morocco. I would recommend to take a plane that goes to Marrakesh or Casablanca instead. Some of the budget airlines (Ryanair for sure) have flight to Morocco from a lot of places, so you can make it to Morocco pretty easy.
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