The return is from Venice, and is booked. I've got a whole day for boarding the ship in Istanbul, plus a day of tours the next before leaving. The ship is booked, so no can do putting off. The trains are booked as far as Budapest - I'm waiting for a call back on the last legs (via Seat61 - thanks for the confirmation on the quality of that.)

Perhaps Rohan have changed its sizing, but they stopped at British 14 when I went, and above that is still normal for quite a few sizes. (16 is average, but 14 still translates as large. I think these sizes translate to US as 14UK=12US, 16UK=14US) I can manage climbing, thank you. ;-)

Thanks for all the advice - towel and loo paper added to list. My sister suggested baby wipes and panty liners, as well.

I do have a day in Budapest, so restaurant information will be welcome, as well as any advice on things to see.

Penny