A recent online version of Rick Steves' column with his "don't-go" advice on some of the worst places in Europe (as well as the best), was one of the most-read stories at seattletimes.com for more than four days running.

Readers weighed in, arguing over his advice and naming and defending some of their favorites (from Sweden to Southern Scotland, both of which Steves panned).

Here are some readers' comments, with their online monikers:

"What makes Sweden's countryside boring? Is it really just because you (Rick Steves) are a descendant of Norwegians? Cod-fishing oil-driller!"

— Biggus Dawgus On Campus

"Rick, thanks for the terrific overview from your perspective and years of European travel. For those of us who have limited experience this makes for some good starting points."

— Sowhatnow, Washington

"I heard a lot of neat little out-of-the-way places have been totally overrun because of Rick Steves writing/talking/filming about it."

— Ann Elk, Seattle

"Blarney stone — slobbered on by tourists and peed on by locals. LOL. We had a great time there shopping for Belleek and Irish sweaters — a much better use of our time."

— Byte, Seattle

"The best-kept travel secret in the world is Slovenia, hardly larger than King County, incredible people (lots of English), incredible scenery and very few fannypackers."

— Stobie, Mendoza

To read -- or reread -- the Rick Steves column, click on the link above ("Don't go: Places to avoid in Europe").