Every time I walk out my door the world inspires the designer in me. I have traveled to hundreds of cities in the U.S.A., but few of them have inspired me as the capitals of Europe have. Copenhagen, Amsterdam, London, Paris, Venice, Vienna, Budapest... to name just a few. It would be impossible to walk down these ancient streets and not experience the centuries of inspiration that have fueled tens of thousands of artists and graphic designers... and still today you feel their spirit as you wind your way through the paths of their lives!
Europe is a daunting undertaking for the first time traveler... what follows is I believe the tips needed for the best introduction to travel, art and food along with the most useful tools to deviate from this plan. Take the time to visit the links on this page. I have used most of them for the last 25 years of my European odyssey! I think that the best time to see Europe is in January, nothing is as crowded, you won't be pushed passed the Mona Lisa. Let´s start by flying into Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, because it is usually the least expensive port of entry when arriving in Europe. The Dutch greet you warmly while providing easy transport into the city. You do know that you purchase your Eurail pass before leaving home right?
What kind of content is on the site (what exactly is it about?).
This site is all about travel. Everything you need to know for the novice to the seasoned traveler. Budget is everything to Frommer´s reputation. This is decades of accumulated knowledge at your finger tips.... enjoy!
What is the goal of the site (what is it trying to do?).
Who is its audience? (age, gender, etc., etc.).
The goal of this site is to sell a product, win return customers & build customer loyalty. The audience is young - old. This is a traditional travel guide with new twists. The message board rocks. The site is easy to sign onto and will probably be more comfortable for young travelers.
How webby is it? What does the website do differently/better than can be done in print?
Pretty webby! They seem to have spent their money well with their developers.
How easy to use is it? Does the navigation make sense?
This site is very easy to use and navigate... even for someone just off the short bus.... lol!
Anything else that makes you think it's great.
The message boards. I love to hear what other people think. I return to many of the same cities, but I'm always looking to understand the people who live there and how they live. I'm not just on vacation.
What kind of content is on the site (what exactly is it about?).
Another great standard. The experts at traveling on a budget... while not missing the experience. This site is all about travel. Everything you need to know for the novice to the seasoned traveler. This is decades of accumulated knowledge at your finger tips.... enjoy!
What is the goal of the site (what is it trying to do?).
Who is its audience? (age, gender, etc., etc.).
Like their travel guides.... much of Frommers and Fodors seem to echo eachother. The goal of this site is to sell a product, win return customers & build customer loyalty. The audience is young - old. This is a traditional travel guide with new twists.
How webby is it? What does the website do differently/better than can be done in print?
Pretty webby! They seem to have spent their money well with their developers. Great links to hotel booking sites!
How easy to use is it? Does the navigation make sense?
This site is very easy to use and navigate... another site for the short bus crowd!
Anything else that makes you think it's great.
The message boards. I love to hear what other people think. I return to many of the same cities, but I'm always looking to understand the people who live there and how they live. I'm not just on vacation.
What kind of content is on the site (what exactly is it about?).
This site is all about travel. Much better content!!! Just more interesting design and links. These people make me want to pack a bag!
What is the goal of the site (what is it trying to do?).
Who is its audience? (age, gender, etc., etc.).
The goal of this site is to sell a product, win return customers & build customer loyalty. The audience is much younger or just more sophisticated. Very cool site. This is not your grandmother´s travel guide.... unless she rocks like mine!
How webby is it? What does the website do differently/better than can be done in print?
Pretty webby! They seem to have spent their money better than the first two mentioned sites! Or maybe they just spent more of it?
How easy to use is it? Does the navigation make sense?
This site is a little more complicated, but the payoff is worth it. I found a new apartment to stay in next time in Amsterdam!!! These are not easy to come by.... especially in the right neighborhood.
Anything else that makes you think it's great.
Great graphic design.... look at their logo... way younger and more cutting edge stuff. It is retail and not art, but they are not has hard on the eyes.
Best apartments found in Amsterdam!
