Art history is probably the most valuable course for the prospective tourist. The world is anxiously waiting for good travel videos. So far,most travel videos are uninspired destination picture books or cheesy promos sponsored by tourist boards or hotel groups. Most local TV travel shows shamelessly sell segments and are little more than infomercials. I'm doing my best to change all this.
Tourism is an important part of Europe's economy.
Each country has a National Tourist Office in the United States with a healthy promotional budget. They are happy to send you a free package of promotional information to get you into a Swiss Alps frame of mind. Just send a postcard or click on the Web site of the office of each country you plan to visit. If you ask for specific information you'll get more than the general packet. If you want to sleep in a castle on the Rhine, river raft in France or hut hop across Austria, there's a free brochure for you.