KZ1X said it...hotels/motels with windows that open. Maybe an MFJ/MP1/Buddistick with counterpoise clamped to a table or chair and placed as close as possible to a, hopefully, large window might work on 20 meters. If there was a wee opening somewhwew around the window edge, you might be able to snake out some very narrow hook-up wire, let it float in the breeze like a real "Zepp" and tune it with a mini MFJ. Presume you would be running QRP or low power.

You didn't mention if you had a balcony. If you do, try a Buddistick mounted on the railing. Pretty unobtrusive. Works well for a short antenna. Fill the balcony with tall plants close to the railing (distraction) and a table with center umbrella (if permitted). If you have a conventional up/down window, it may be able to be temporarily attached when you are on the air.  Talk to the Buddipole folks.  Your owner/manager might not notice or care. More likely looking for satellite dishes.  Keep power at 50/60 watts or less to minimize RFI/TVI. Don't even think about an indoor antenna. Let us know how you make out. Important info for we apartment dwellers. 73 es gl.

The TenTec Argonaut V, an absolutely first-rate transceiver. Great home QTH rig. It isn't heavy but a little bulky for  aircraft overhead storage. However, you can operate from  portable locations having ac mains connections. I did that from a rented lake-side cabin last year.

Yes, the UK foundation license is 10 watts. Many of those license holders are running 10 watt transceivers and doing a fine job. I worked a number of them when I was in that part of the world. The proposed USA foundation license has a maximum power restriction of 100 watts, the maximum power of many barefoot transceivers. With the privleges proposed, many won't find a need to go beyond a foundation license.

Good idea ...bad idea, hard to say.
73

Rich, did you get my e-mail re the phone patch?

You will be better served by using a Buddistick or MP-1 short vertical attached to your balcony rail.  With as many counterpoise wires as possible. You may be able to use an MFJ telescopic whip to extend the length of those two antennas. Be sure to clear the balcony above you by having the whip out at an angle. See the Buddistick and MP-1 reviews on this site. They are what I use from my balcony in France. Also 20 watts cw on 40 meters. You should be able to work most of Europe fairly well. Don't expect miracles.

I was 1st AACS so it is yours. Ran some phone patches on a Pacific SSB net. Not MARS.

No guarantees though. You get it untested plus a bill for USPS. I probably have an old cardbox box and some bubble pack somewhere. Like I said, it will be a few weeks or so.

Nice web site, Phil. Is the xyl a pro photographer? If not, she aught to be. Great ornithologie work deserving of publication. My congratulations.

Thank you for your replies. I have an old TS-520 that I was considering taking to and leaving at a semi-permanent overseas location. Never run it at QRP levels, and can't from here, so was curious. Tired of airport security every time I travel with my SG2020. One time with the TS and no more. 73

Anyone using their TS-520 (or other semi-boatanchor rig) at QRP level? How how have you found your rig performing at 5 watts output?

In Europe, as you enter territorial waters the captain may ask you to cease radio transmissions particularly as you approach ports of entry. Port officials are touchy these days.

Still have it but won't be able to send it until early April. Drop a line after April 1.

Good idea. A stable or riding club could probably furnish info.

Hello "northcountry"... northern NYS? I would recommend an older Kenwood TS520 or TS530, if you can buy one from a local ham and see it in operation. Or, from a reputable dealer with some sort of used-equipment warranty. I, fairly recently, purchased a full Kenwood TS-520 station from HRO at a reasonable used price. I think you may like the idea of having individually marked controls instead of a menu driven system, at least to start out with.  Something you can get your hands on with the ability to read the function of each knob and switch on the plate. Gives you an idea of what the current crop of tranceivers are doing, automatically. Education factor here.

I do have this love affair for the older rigs so am a little "blinded" in my views. Don't necessarily see all the warts.

Good luck with your exams at whatever level. Hope you will enjoy cw.

Love my Argonaut V...and my SGC SG2020, also 20 watts...too bad SGC doesn't make it any longer. Smaller than the TT and very solid for rough environments, like over-the-road. Used maybe? GL