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		<title><![CDATA[Fodor's Travel Talk Forums]]></title>
		<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Welcome to the to Fodor's Travel Talk Forums. Plan a vacation with the help of travelers like you. Ask a question about an upcoming trip or share your travel advice.]]></description>
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			<title><![CDATA[Fodor's Travel Talk Forums]]></title>
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			<title>In what order for Lisbon and Sintra</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/in-what-order-for-lisbon-and-sintra-1735850/</link>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 2026 22:37:31 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>Thinking about eight almost full days in Lisbon and surrounding April 2027. 
 
5 days Lisbon 
2 Sintra - would stay 1-2 nights. 
1 Caiscais day trip...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>Thinking about eight almost full days in Lisbon and surrounding April 2027.<br />
<br />
5 days Lisbon<br />
2 Sintra - would stay 1-2 nights.<br />
1 Caiscais day trip<br />
<br />
one of those days would have been arriving from the U.S., landing in the morning.<br />
<br />
Saturday to Sunday.<br />
<br />
Should I do Lisbon first, then Sintra, or the reverse? Would imagine Caiscais as a day trip either from Lisbon or Sintra and not necessarily another hotel change there.<br />
<br />
Thank you!<br />
<br />
 </div>

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			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/">Europe</category>
			<dc:creator>JoeTro</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/in-what-order-for-lisbon-and-sintra-1735850/</guid>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Japan Nov.-Dec. 2026</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/asia/japan-nov-dec-2026-a-1735849/</link>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 2026 20:27:07 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>We are thinking of going to Japan for about 3 weeks the end of November to beginning of December with the thoughts that it will be a quieter time and...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>We are thinking of going to Japan for about 3 weeks the end of November to beginning of December with the thoughts that it will be a quieter time and cool, but not too cold. We are two 76 years olds who like to travel independently, or in a vey small group, usually planning our trips, driving at times, enjoying cultural experiences, light hiking/walking (about 6 miles/day), meeting locals and exploring smaller towns after city times. We travel very light, using public transportation at times. I will be sharing initial itinerary thoughts soon. Studying everyone's trip reports currently. This forum has always been so helpful.<br />
 </div>

]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/asia/">Asia</category>
			<dc:creator>virginiafish</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/asia/japan-nov-dec-2026-a-1735849/</guid>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Cancel For Any Reason Travel Coverage</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/travel-tips-and-trip-ideas/cancel-for-any-reason-travel-coverage-1735847/</link>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 2026 16:43:22 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>Hi all, 
 
I have never used travel insurance but feel the need to make sure my accommodations for our upcoming stay in London are cancellable. We...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>Hi all,<br />
<br />
I have never used travel insurance but feel the need to make sure my accommodations for our upcoming stay in London are cancellable. We are meeting our children and spouses, and two of them are starting new jobs in a couple months and don't know their holiday schedule. <br />
<br />
Has anyone used &quot;Cancel for any Reason&quot; insurance? Any recommendations?<br />
<br />
Thank you! </div>

]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/travel-tips-and-trip-ideas/"><![CDATA[Travel Tips & Trip Ideas]]></category>
			<dc:creator>lrice</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/travel-tips-and-trip-ideas/cancel-for-any-reason-travel-coverage-1735847/</guid>
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		<item>
			<title>Trip Report Spring Solo Travel in Greece - May 2026</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/spring-solo-travel-in-greece-may-2026-a-1735845/</link>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 2026 14:09:13 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>This will be a report of my May 2026 trip to Greece. My itinerary was as follows: 
 
Athens - 5 nights (Pan Hotel) 
Meteora - 2 nights (Doupiani...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>This will be a report of my May 2026 trip to Greece. My itinerary was as follows:<br />
<br />
Athens - 5 nights (Pan Hotel)<br />
Meteora - 2 nights (Doupiani House Hotel)<br />
Delphi - 2 nights (Kastalia Boutique Hotel)<br />
Nafplio - 5 nights (Pension Dafni)<br />
Naxos - 5 nights (Kymata Hotel)<br />
Athens - 1 night (Garment District Suites)<br />
<br />
I used trip reports from <a href="https://www.fodors.com/community//community/profile/karenwoo/" class="utag">@KarenWoo</a> <a href="https://www.fodors.com/community//community/profile/progol/" class="utag">@progol</a> <a href="https://www.fodors.com/community//community/profile/kja/" class="utag">@kja</a> <a href="https://www.fodors.com/community//community/profile/virginiafish/" class="utag">@virginiafish</a> <a href="https://www.fodors.com/community//community/profile/tripplanner001/" class="utag">@tripplanner001</a> to help create my itinerary.<br />
<br />
A few notes about the trip: This was my first time visiting Greece. I traveled solo and always felt safe. Language wasn’t an issue at all, as almost everyone accustomed to dealing with tourists speaks English well. I rented a car and did a fair amount of driving - more on that later. I used my credit card for virtually everything, including tolls while driving. The biggest culture shock were the toilets - you can’t flush used paper, you have to put it in a trash can. Through a combination of credit card points, perks, and rewards, I was able to significantly cut down the out-of-pocket costs of the trip.<br />
<br />
<b>Friday-Sunday May 1-3: Travel and Arrival in Athens</b><br />
<br />
I started the trip with a redeye flight from Salt Lake City to Boston on Delta. I was hoping to spend my long layover in Boston out in the city, but the places I’d bookmarked for luggage storage ended up being closed. Instead, I was able to make use of my Priority Pass and convince the attendant at the Air France lounge to let me in outside of the 3-hours-to-boarding window. It’s a small lounge practically hidden in the basement at the end of Terminal E - nothing to write home about, but I’ll never complain about free snacks and a comfortable chair.<br />
<br />
About 3 hours before boarding, I made my way to the Chase Sapphire lounge in terminal B. It’s beautiful! I was so excited by the QR code that allows you to order food and drinks directly to your seat that I didn’t do a sweep of the entire lounge before sitting down. If I had, I would have discovered that the buffet area had small plates with food much more interesting than the burger I ordered. The massage chair was booked during the entirety of my stay, but I was able to make use of the shower facilities.<br />
<br />
My flight from Boston to Athens left in the late afternoon, and, full from lounge food, I skipped the plane meal and tried to get to sleep right away. I slept a decent amount in my economy seat and arrived, feeling relatively well-rested and comfortable, to a drizzly Athens. It took me about 20 minutes to get through passport control, which included having my passport reviewed by an officer, a photo, and a fingerprint scan. I saw automatic machines set up in the area, but they weren’t in use. Once through passport control, I took a few minutes to set up my eSim and then easily found the X95 airport bus. I didn’t bother with a paper ticket and just tapped my credit card to the machine on board to pay my fare. It took about an hour to get from the airport to Syntagma Square.<br />
<br />
I wasn’t expecting it, but I was able to check in to my room at <b>Pan Hotel</b> right away. This is a small hotel, maybe a bit on the older side, but in a fantastically convenient location - just a couple of blocks from Syntagma Square and a short walk to both Plaka and Monastiraki Square. After taking a few minutes to get settled, I headed out to grab some breakfast. I bought an almond croissant and hot chocolate at Overoll, which were just okay. After eating, I wandered the area between Monastiraki Square and Plaka for a few hours. I wasn’t sure how much energy I’d have coming off of two overnight flights, so I didn’t have any plans or expectations for the day. I hadn’t even brought my big camera out with me, so I just leisurely explored the area and made friends with a few cats before heading back to the hotel, where I showered, napped, and read the afternoon away.<br />
<br />
My last couple of trips have veered into overplanned territory, so for this trip I deliberately didn’t do too much research into restaurants. For dinner, I wandered my way to Taverna Saita in Plaka. The skies had cleared by this point, so I was able to sit outdoors. I ordered a Greek salad, which was good. Interesting that most American versions of Greek salad are lettuce-based, while the real thing doesn’t include lettuce at all. I was both entertained and horrified by the British women at the table next to me who were literally throwing themselves at the server. I wish I could have understood the chatter amongst the staff after they left!<br />
<br />
My after-dinner wandering took me to the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates, where I found a group of cats. I knew that Greece has lots of community cats, and I came prepared with a bag of treats. One of the reasons I knew this had to be a solo trip is because I don’t know too many people who would be willing to spend as much time petting cats as I did. One of the cats settled itself on my lap, so I took out my Kindle and read for a bit while I let it enjoy a brief nap. As it was starting to get dark, I headed back to my hotel, grabbing some baklava from <b>Baklavas</b> along the way.<br />
<br />
<img src="https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_4127_58c4b04cb0dc0afcdf1e4d67fa7b124431278a0d.jpg" alt="First views of the Acropolis! I didnt take my DSLR out will me today, so just a few shots from my iPhone. " class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>First views of the Acropolis! I didn't take my DSLR out will me today, so just a few shots from my iPhone. </i><br />
<img src="https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/1500x2000/img_4265_06e95a5c4613040ba38029a1614e1107362fdc76.jpg" alt="Cats will appear frequently in this trip report" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>Cats will appear frequently in this trip report</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_4130_3d1a1c3f1fb77cd62b4a08eb7361dbe350fe616c.jpg" alt="Very old and new-ish" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>Very old and new-ish</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/1500x2000/img_4243_974251209b57c38108fbb30a7cdc9d9224522330.jpg" alt="Entrance to the Roman Agora" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>Entrance to the Roman Agora</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_4164_38df4fe573f991d831a829202020bfe15632b0a4.jpg" alt="Beautiful Plaka" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>Beautiful Plaka</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_4273_c7eef40bf96c8022aca95af0f4eb8cfb3d63f282.jpg" alt="Making some new friends" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>Making some new friends</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_8233_5cdf4117510e2f4a77f02e8002e3445629a31f2d.jpg" alt="Dinner!" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>Dinner!</i><br />
 </div>

]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/">Europe</category>
			<dc:creator>memejs</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/spring-solo-travel-in-greece-may-2026-a-1735845/</guid>
		</item>
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			<title>Vedettes du Pont Neuf Cruise – 9:45 PM Champagne Sunset vs 10:45 PM Standard?</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/vedettes-du-pont-neuf-cruise-9-45-pm-champagne-sunset-vs-10-45-pm-standard-1735843/</link>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 2026 02:07:58 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>Hello everyone, 
 
We are planning to book a Seine River cruise with Vedettes du Pont Neuf and are trying to decide between two evening departure...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>Hello everyone,<br />
<br />
We are planning to book a Seine River cruise with Vedettes du Pont Neuf and are trying to decide between two evening departure options.<br />
<br />
Our original choice was the 9:45 PM Champagne “sunset” cruise, since it seems like the perfect timing to catch the transition from daylight into sunset and early evening lights. However, it looks like this is by far the most popular departure and is already close to selling out on several days. From videos and photos, the boats at that time also appear quite crowded (which is totally understandable given the timing and price).<br />
<br />
As a backup, we are considering the 10:45 PM standard cruise, which would be fully after dark, so we will still see Paris illuminated at night, just not during sunset.<br />
<br />
A few questions for those who have taken either option:<br />
<ul><li>Is the 10:45 PM cruise typically any less crowded than the 9:45 PM departure? Or are they both generally full in peak season?<br /></li>
<li>If crowd levels are about the same, it seems like we might as well try harder to secure the 9:45 PM. Would you agree?<br /></li>
<li>Are there any downsides to the later 10:45 PM departure (e.g., atmosphere, safety, etc.)?<br /></li>
<li>Would you recommend considering an early morning cruise instead, or is evening really the best experience?<br />
</li>
</ul>We are happy with either sunset or night views. Just trying to make the most of the experience!<br />
<br />
Thank you.</div>

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			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/">Europe</category>
			<dc:creator>JohnnyCage98765</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/vedettes-du-pont-neuf-cruise-9-45-pm-champagne-sunset-vs-10-45-pm-standard-1735843/</guid>
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			<title>Matera</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/matera-1735835/</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 02:45:05 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>A few people recommended a stop in Matera and I quickly shifted my itinerary. I am planning at least 2 nights. I would love accommodation with a...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>A few people recommended a stop in Matera and I quickly shifted my itinerary. I am planning at least 2 nights. I would love accommodation with a terrace (not necessarily in the room). I will be travelling from <span style="color:#001d35">Polignano a Mare. On Omio, it is $100 one way. Head back to Bari and grab the next bus. It is not so bad but I wonder if there is an easier way that I am missing. </span><br />
<br />
My mobility is ok but I am getting over a knee injury. I don’t want to miss Matera.  I am thinking about doing a tuk tuk tour just to get an overall feel. <br />
<br />
I would love to hear others’ experiences.<br />
 </div>

]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/">Europe</category>
			<dc:creator>kelsey22</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/matera-1735835/</guid>
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			<title>OAT trip to Japan and Osaka O</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/asia/oat-trip-to-japan-and-osaka-o-1735833/</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 02:07:27 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[We are considering the OAT's "Japan's Cultural Treasures" trip in the beginning of August. They do not visit Osaka, so we are considering extending...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>We are considering the OAT's &quot;Japan's Cultural Treasures&quot; trip in the beginning of August. They do not visit Osaka, so we are considering extending our time to visit there. Any thoughts about the OAT trip and how many days would you suggest in Osaka?</div>

]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/asia/">Asia</category>
			<dc:creator>virginiafish</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/asia/oat-trip-to-japan-and-osaka-o-1735833/</guid>
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			<title>Trip Report Spain (Andalucia, Extremadura, Madrid) and Malta trip report</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/spain-andalucia-extremadura-madrid-and-malta-trip-report-1735832/</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:51:19 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>My husband and I just returned from 2.5 weeks in Spain and a week in Malta.  I enjoyed your trip reports so much during my planning.  I am going to...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><h2><br />
<span style="color:#000000">My husband and I just returned from 2.5 weeks in Spain and a week in Malta.  I enjoyed your trip reports so much during my planning.  I am going to post mine in sections starting with Tips/Logistics and our first city, Seville. <br />
<br />
<b>Our route:</b> Sevilla (4 nights) &#8594; Córdoba (2) &#8594; Granada (2) &#8594; Ronda (3) &#8594; Cáceres (3) &#8594; Madrid (4) &#8594; Gozo (3) &#8594; Valletta (3)</span></h2><h3>Before You Go: Tips &amp; Logistics</h3><span style="color:#000000"><b>Book early — then keep checking.</b> I start planning months in advance, which is usually great, but the major Andalucía ticket sites (Alhambra, Seville Alcázar, cathedrals) release availability at different times and often well after I'd already locked in hotels. You pretty much have to stalk each site separately and pounce the moment slots open — it felt exactly like trying to enroll my kid in Freshman Bio at a large state university. More importantly: keep checking as your trip approaches. We had to do a last-minute shuffle because Toledo Cathedral was closed for Corpus Christi on the exact day we'd planned to be there — and each city celebrates it on a different day, so you can't always anticipate it. What had been an overnight in Toledo became a day-trip from Madrid. Not a disaster, but a scramble. Check, check, and check again.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Go to the big sights first thing — and then go even earlier.</b> For the big Andalucía sights, forget the &quot;late afternoon crowds thin out&quot; strategy. They don't. Book first timed entry, arrive 30 minutes before that, and make a beeline for the rooms you most want to see. We had the Alcázar's Hall of Ambassadors and Courtyard of the Maidens almost entirely to ourselves. An hour later it was a nightmare. Early is everything.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Bring your passport to ticketed sights.</b> We were asked for ours 2–3 times.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Book around the cruise ship schedule.</b> This is my single best travel tip, full stop. Check your destination's port schedule and plan your dates accordingly. It mattered less in Andalucía (crowds come from everywhere, not just ships), but in Malta it was transformative. We chose three non-cruise-ship days for Valletta and the difference was stunning — even St. John's Co-Cathedral felt relaxed and unhurried.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Packing.</b> 25 days, one carry-on roller and one under-seat backpack each, sink laundry every night with dissolving soap sheets. For Spain: skirts, sundresses, walking sandals. For Malta: shorts and cotton tanks. Fair warning: Air France has strict weight limits and we were forced to gate-check our rollers — always keep medications and a change of clothes in your personal bag.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Weather.</b> Spain was mid-90s°F but dry — felt wonderful. Malta topped out in the high 70s on paper but was brutally humid with relentless sun, and we had to rethink some midday plans accordingly.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Breakfast.</b> Spanish breakfast is good, though not quite at the heights of Turkish breakfast. A typical hotel buffet includes jamón, cheeses, breads, pastries, fruit, yogurt, and usually eggs. We try to book hotels with breakfast included; when it's not, we'd pick up fruit and pastries the night before and make do with hotel room coffee. The most basic Spanish breakfast — a roll with crushed tomatoes and jamón — is simple and perfectly satisfying. We had it at a rest stop on our Doñana day and loved it. Cappuccino and espresso were excellent everywhere.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Trains.</b> Seville's train station is the trickiest one we encountered — learn to read your ticket before you get there. Key vocabulary: <i>coche</i> = car, <i>plaza</i> = seat, <i>vía</i> = platform (announced late). Your train may be listed under its final destination, not yours — our Granada train was headed to Madrid Atocha and wasn't listed as &quot;Granada&quot; anywhere on the board. Arrive at least 30 minutes early; there may be a long security line but it moves efficiently. After Seville, every subsequent train journey was straightforward.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Driving in Spain.</b> Generally fine — drivers are fast and aggressive but disciplined: they stay right except to pass and trucks are governed. Roads are adequate, though often without a shoulder and sometimes without a center stripe on rural roads (I did a lot of horn-beeping on curves). If someone wants to pass you, just let them. Avoid driving in city centers if at all possible; the streets are incredibly narrow and there always seems to be someone parked halfway into traffic. If you must drive in a city, get the smallest car available.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Driving in Malta.</b> I'd only recommend this for experienced left-side drivers — Americans will find it genuinely stressful. You drive on the British side, roundabouts are everywhere (look right before entering or you will get hit), road markings are unclear, and one-lane roads with two-way traffic are common, meaning you'll occasionally have to reverse until you can pull over to let someone pass. People stop in the middle of the road constantly. I drove slowly, let the impatient locals pass, and tried not to worry about it. My husband, who is an excellent navigator, may have been more stressed than I was. On the bright side: Siri's attempts at Maltese road names provided genuine comic relief.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Resources we loved.</b> Rick Steves — his audio walking tours are gold (I just wish he covered Malta). The Rough Guide to Spain and the Bradt Guide to Malta. And of course, Fodor's trip reports — so thank you all. For pre-trip reading: <i>The Sword and the Scimitar </i>(David Ball) and <i>The Kappillan of Malta</i> (Nicholas Montsarrat) for Malta; <i>The Return</i> by Victoria Hislop, <i>In the Shadow of the Pomegranate Tree</i>, (Tariq Ali) <i>For Whom the Bell Tolls</i> (Hemmingway), and — yes — <i>Don Quixote</i> (long, but funnier and quicker than you'd expect) for Spain.</span><br />
<h3>Sevilla — 4 nights</h3><span style="color:#000000"><b>Hotel:</b> Hotel Querencia de Sevilla (Marriott). We're not usually chain people, but my husband had work points, the location in Plaza de San Francisco is ideal, the staff was exceptional, and the breakfast and pool made for a very welcome soft landing.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Itinerary:</b></span><br />
<ul><li>Day 1 (arrive ~4pm): Check in, walk to Plaza de España</li>
<li>Day 2: Day-trip with guide to Doñana wetlands (lynx + birding)</li>
<li>Day 3: Barrio Santa Cruz walk; cathedral &amp; Giralda (3:45 entry); evening paseo on Plaza Nueva</li>
<li>Day 4: Alcázar (arrive by 9am for 9:30 entry); Triana walk; flamenco at Casa del Flamenco</li>
</ul><span style="color:#000000"><b>Impressions:</b> Sevilla was our favorite city of the entire trip — and honestly, we didn't see that coming. It's old but immaculate, completely walkable, and alive with history and culture. We loved simply wandering the cobbled streets past bougainvillea-draped buildings and flower-pot-filled balconies. (We also had a memorable — if humbling — experience trying to order sandwiches at Casa de Morena. Our Spanish is passable, but restaurant vocabulary is its own beast, and we ended up with a few unexpected and not entirely desirable lunches along the way.)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000">The <b>Alcázar</b> was our favorite Seville sight and the second-best of the whole trip. We arrived at 9am for our 9:30 first-entry slot; by 9:20, the line behind us stretched out of sight. Once inside, we skipped the first room and had the Hall of Ambassadors and Courtyard of the Maidens almost to ourselves — the Islamic tilework and architecture rivaled anything we've seen, including Topkapi in Istanbul. After seeing what mattered most to us, we looped back through the rest at a leisurely pace (crowds and all).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><b>Plaza de España</b> was an aesthetic feast — gorgeous in every direction, with impromptu flamenco performances at all hours. The <b>cathedral</b> we did at 3:45pm, which was less ideal than a morning visit would have been — tour groups were still present — but the &quot;wait two minutes&quot; strategy works: they swarm through and move on. The cathedral was certainly impressive, but not among Europe's most beautiful cathedrals in my opinion. <b>Casa del Flamenco</b> was wonderfully intimate — almost uncomfortably so,  (I was close enough to get sweat-sprayed by the lead dancer). We both loved it and agreed we don't need to go again.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color:#000000"><i>Note for birders and nature lovers: we saw an Iberian Lynx on our Doñana day! I'm happy to recommend our guide if anyone is interested.</i><br />
<br />
next up will be Cordoba</span><br />
<br />
 </div>

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			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/">Europe</category>
			<dc:creator>ljturco</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/spain-andalucia-extremadura-madrid-and-malta-trip-report-1735832/</guid>
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			<title><![CDATA[Ragusa & Marina di Ragusa & Addio all'Estate??]]></title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/ragusa-and-marina-di-ragusa-and-addio-allestate-1735831/</link>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:34:01 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>Two old Foodies planned to sun, schmooze and explore the small nearby towns, 
Second visit to Sicily. Two Seniors plan to spend a couple of weeks in...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>Two old Foodies planned to sun, schmooze and explore the small nearby towns,<br />
<span style="color:#333333">Second visit to Sicily. Two Seniors plan to spend a couple of weeks in Marina di Ragusa Sicily mid to late September '26. Plan to take day trips using bus taxi or driver. Just learned that there is a close to the seaside season called Addio all'Estate . Our hotel &amp; pool are open . Just concerned that restaurants and transportation will have reduced service. No longer climbing the steps of ancient Cathedrals..now travel for food and local culture.</span><br />
<span style="color:#333333">Has anyone vacationed in this area this time of year. This would be the time to adjust itinerary if recommended.</span><br />
<span style="color:#333333">Thanks..happy to be a new member!  Also, is it possible to be dropped off by car at sites &amp; restaurants in Ragusa </span>Isla??<br />
<span style="color:#333333">BK</span></div>

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			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/">Europe</category>
			<dc:creator>Strategic2</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/ragusa-and-marina-di-ragusa-and-addio-allestate-1735831/</guid>
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			<title>New Routes to Cuba / Canada for Canadians / Cubans</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/caribbean-islands/new-routes-to-cuba-canada-for-canadians-cubans-1735830/</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 23:32:29 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>Of course as many of you know, there are now no flights scheduled to / from Cuba to Canada and visa versa. Everything has been cancelled indefinitely...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>Of course as many of you know, there are now no flights scheduled to / from Cuba to Canada and visa versa. Everything has been cancelled indefinitely by all Canadian airlines. But I have a new route in mind for Yudith to come to Canada again later this year, and if anything, it should be much easier and much cheaper over all to implement. Yudith would first catch a flight that I'll book for her later to fly from CMW - Camaguey city to CUN - Cancun, Mexico with Viva Aerobus - their flights transit back and forth every Wednesday of each week - a 55 minute flight. Yudith would then layover in a hotel within the Cancun airport for 1 night - I'll have that pre-booked for her as well, however her Canadian bank issued VISA credit card will begin working again for all meals and drinks for her as soon as she's in Mexico. The next morning bright and early, she'll then board an Air Transat flight in Cancun direct to Toronto. Easy peasy! And no transit visa needed to enter Mexico because Yudith has her Canadian TRV within her Cuban passport. The best part is that there would be no need for anymore 3.5 hour long taxi rides to the Cayo Coco airport first at likely $250 to $300 USD now - and that's if Yudith could find a taxi that had enough gasoline to make that taxi ride possible at all too. Our casa is located only 10 minutes away from the Camaguey city airport. Everything would apply exactly the same for me as well when flying back with her to Cuba later in reverse to be there again for our end of the year fiesta at the casa. What a treat it will be to finally be able to land at the airport in Camaguey city again! It's been several years now since I've been able to do that. Terry</div>

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			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/caribbean-islands/">Caribbean Islands</category>
			<dc:creator>TerryandYudith</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/caribbean-islands/new-routes-to-cuba-canada-for-canadians-cubans-1735830/</guid>
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			<title>TR - 3 nights/4 days in Savannah</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/united-states/tr-3-nights-4-days-in-savannah-1735828/</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 23:07:03 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[As I sit at my gate for my now delayed flight home, thought I&#8217;d make use of the time and share some of my experiences in, and thoughts on, Savannah....]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>As I sit at my gate for my now delayed flight home, thought I&#8217;d make use of the time and share some of my experiences in, and thoughts on, Savannah.<ul><li>The people are unfailingly polite and friendly. It was very easy to have conversations with people you had just met - next to you or across from at a bar, walking a dog, sitting on a nearby bench.</li>
<li>The historic district in particular is stunningly beautiful. The architecture, gas lamps and gardens were jaw dropping.<br />
<img src="https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_3817_711476fe859557acc8917252fc54d59289002ef4.jpeg" alt="Spanish moss galore" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>Spanish moss galore</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_3846_dc60cc6b1f9a3cdca19cf2e27977841ea1e8ff17.jpeg" alt="Downstairs at the Olde Pink House" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>Downstairs at the Olde Pink House</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_3803_dd42d3f5d43debb5545bc071302d48f28a2b0770.jpeg" alt="So many styles of architecture!" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>So many styles of architecture!</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_3837_4f386d4043d9bbb523daf7fe4a6dbb38dbe170fc.jpeg" alt="The BLT (bacon, lettuce and fried green tomatoes) at The Olde Pink House" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>The BLT (bacon, lettuce and fried green tomatoes) at The Olde Pink House</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_3905_c3c15967456d83be00778ac153bddd254e1d1efa.jpeg" alt="Shrimp &amp; grits at Public Kitchen" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>Shrimp &amp; grits at Public Kitchen</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_3936_e7c68000b4857d7cd0a2ac35c23c264dced3ccfa.jpeg" alt="Getting set up at the Johnny Mercer Theatre" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>Getting set up at the Johnny Mercer Theatre</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/1120x2000/img_3978_ee5d3d72c8596e9b8e3710fa7b3bbb377ba13133.jpeg" alt="My greeter at Bonaventure" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>My greeter at Bonaventure</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_3986_0cc03738d0f7cd05e314af706808090a08a5ceec.jpeg" alt="My fresh strawberry Aperol bourbon cocktail at Repeal 33" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>My fresh strawberry Aperol bourbon cocktail at Repeal 33</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_4028_3cf301488c4779c3fbfc9e804bacbbb70a0923d0.jpeg" alt="My afternoon view" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>My afternoon view</i><br />
<img src="https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fodors.com-vbulletin/2000x1504/img_4002_a883e3f88335b332b43281b8731757a373490a63.jpeg" alt="The facade at The Grey, a former Greyhound bus terminal" class="post_inline_image" loading="lazy" /><br />
<i>The facade at The Grey, a former Greyhound bus terminal</i></li>
<li>Savannah is a very walkable and pedestrian friendly city.</li>
<li>That being said, if you do have a car, it&#8217;s an easy enough place to navigate and park.</li>
<li>Bonaventure Cemetery was worth a visit - and I think it would be an even more memorable visit if I had taken a tour. Next time.</li>
<li>My favorite meals were at the Olde Pink House (where I found the food to be very good and the convivial atmosphere incredibly welcoming), The Public Kitchen &amp; Bar (the shrimp and grits were the best I&#8217;ve ever had) and Quinn&#8217;s for a no fuss, well prepared breakfast.</li>
<li>The Grey was a great disappointment. I loved the interior and the service was accomplished and warm, but the food was unrelentingly salty. I had oysters, which were fresh and cold, followed by mac &amp; cheese, and chick pea fritters accompanied by grilled squash and tahini. I couldn&#8217;t finish either.</li>
<li>The downstairs lounge at The Olde Pink House was gorgeous and fun. I also enjoyed drinks and conversation at both Repeal 33 and Bar Bubbly.</li>
<li>A salad at the Gryphon tea room was nothing but ok. I blame myself for ordering poorly. The tea sandwiches and petit fours looked beautiful.</li>
<li>The neighborhood I stayed in (between Forsyth Park and Chatham Square) was perfect for me. I like being in a residential area rather than a commercial one.</li>
<li>I was able to buy a very inexpensive concert ticket to see a performer I&#8217;ve been interested in seeing, Brandi Carlile, two hours before the show using Vivid Tickets. $35 for an excellent balcony seat at the Johnny Mercer Theatre.</li>
<li>On my last day in town, I had to check out of my accommodations by 10 a.m. but wasn&#8217;t scheduled to fly until 7:55 p.m. To fill the day, I purchased a pool day pass at a hotel near the river, through Resort Pass for $35. For nearly 5 hours I napped, read and wrote on a chaise near the pool with access to WiFi, towels and bathrooms. I am so relaxed!</li>
</ul></div>

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			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/united-states/">United States</category>
			<dc:creator>nylilly</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/united-states/tr-3-nights-4-days-in-savannah-1735828/</guid>
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			<title>Scenic Peaks Near Innsbruck</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/scenic-peaks-near-innsbruck-1735823/</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 14:37:45 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>We are 2 seniors staying in Innsbruck for 3 nights in mid July. We are not interested in strenuous hiking, but want to see the natural beauty of the...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>We are 2 seniors staying in Innsbruck for 3 nights in mid July. We are not interested in strenuous hiking, but want to see the natural beauty of the area. We will also be in Alpbach for 2 nights. We are trying to figure out which of the following sites to include during our visit: the Zirbenweg, the Sugspitze, and the Nordkette. We are also considering the Wiedersbergerhorn in Alpsbach. We would appreciate help in planning our stay and any other suggestions of must sees in the area. We are traveling via public transportation.<br />
<br />
 </div>

]]></content:encoded>
			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/">Europe</category>
			<dc:creator>rfreedfl</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/scenic-peaks-near-innsbruck-1735823/</guid>
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			<title>Camino de Santiago</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/camino-de-santiago-1735813/</link>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:06:38 GMT</pubDate>
			<description>We are thinking of biking the Camino next year in September.  Has anyone done this?  We are considering Spain or the Atlantic Camino in Portugal.   
...</description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>We are thinking of biking the Camino next year in September.  Has anyone done this?  We are considering Spain or the Atlantic Camino in Portugal.  <br />
<br />
Has anyone ever done a cycling tour with Macs Adventures?  <br />
<br />
Thank you in advance for any help.</div>

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			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/">Europe</category>
			<dc:creator>jscarbary</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/camino-de-santiago-1735813/</guid>
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			<title>Sicily for one week</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/sicily-for-one-week-1735811/</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2026 19:58:13 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[We're flying in and out of Palermo early September for our first trip to Sicily! Thinking 4 nights in Taormina and 3 in Cefalu. Trying to finalize...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>We're flying in and out of Palermo early September for our first trip to Sicily! Thinking 4 nights in Taormina and 3 in Cefalu. Trying to finalize hotels. So far I'm considering La Calette N. 5 in Cefalu. Is it worth the big price tag? Is it inconvenient to get to town? Would we be better off at Alberi Del Paradiso (or some other hotel) which does not seem as luxurious, but is perhaps more centrally located? Especially since we will have water views in Taormina. Thinking of either Villa Carlotta, Grand Hotel San Pietro, or Palazza Vecchio in Taormina. Any and all advice will be greatly appreciated! Cleanliness and location are my top priorities when searching for the right hotel. </div>

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			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/">Europe</category>
			<dc:creator>azh111</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/sicily-for-one-week-1735811/</guid>
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			<title>Seniors walking tours</title>
			<link>https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/seniors-walking-tours-1735810/</link>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2026 07:52:06 GMT</pubDate>
			<description><![CDATA[We are 3 fit women in our mid 70's, and are looking for an escorted walking trip of about a week to 10 days. We are leaving our men and...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>We are 3 fit women in our mid 70's, and are looking for an escorted walking trip of about a week to 10 days. We are leaving our men and responsibilities at home and pretending one last time that we are carefree and adventurous. I would be very grateful for suggestions of tour companies, or ideal places to visit. To make the job for advice givers a bit easier, here are our parameters: mostly flat walking, though slight inclines are fine, but no mountains or dangerous cliffs. We are happy to walk up to 4 -5 hours per day, but won't complain if the walking is interspersed with some relaxing lunches, a glass of wine or mooching around villages. Small groups are preferable where we can interact with other like minded people. We do love Italy ( doesn't everyone) but happy to consider other European destinations. We would like to travel in April/May/June when weather is mild. If anyone has done a walk which they would highly recommend, please point me in the right direction. We are coming from Australia. TIA.<br />
 </div>

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			<category domain="https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/">Europe</category>
			<dc:creator>irenen</dc:creator>
			<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/seniors-walking-tours-1735810/</guid>
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