... in response to 2 questions for those having been abroad..., posted by Frank O on Nov 28, 2002According to THE ECONOMIST they are about at par, $.9942 US equals 1.00 Euro.
I have vacationed with my Russian Sweetheart on Cyprus, Turkey and Marbella. They are all great locations. All of the locations you mentioned are on the Mediteranean Sea. The water is usually fairly calm, similar to the Black Sea that your girl may have visited. Not much surfing to be had. You can find Ocean beaches in Morocco or Portugal and Northern Spain.
I found the highest concentration of tourists from the FSU was in Cyprus, than Turkey, fewest in Spain. Numbers in Spain growing though. Russians love to travel and seek the sea. Very few Americans in Cyprus and Turkey.
Marbella, Spain is marvelous. I found it to be the most expensive though and during the summer season crowded, full of Brits. Some resort areas full of rather bad mannered Brit soccer fan types. I stayed at Marriott Beach Resort. Beautiful facilities, with kitchen, relaxing, and family oriented, but rather dull.
Cyprus is beautiful, very hot, some terrific beaches. The food and service was excellent. Tourists mostly from UK and FSU. Menus usually supplied with English and Russian translations, no Spanish. Hotel had many activities, tours and entertainment. Driving on 'wrong' side of road, English style. Island divided between Turks and Greek Cypriots. British serve as Peace keepers. I experienced no problems.
Turkey most reasonable, least expensive. Some language difficulties, few Brits but lots of Germans. Food good but better in Cyprus.
I have been told that Crete is terrific, not too 'touristic' yet.
My vote, Cyprus. Hope this helps.
