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Money Saving Tips For European Travel
August 23, 2007
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With the euro practically off the charts for Americans this summer, NY1?s Valarie D?Elia offered up a few pointers on saving some money when traveling to Europe.
It's forecast to get worse before it gets better; the exchange rate between the dollar and the euro is dismal, with the greenback dropping to a record low this summer making purchases much more expensive for American tourists. It's downright painful in Britain where everything costs double.
On an extended trip overseas this summer, I found my way around the sticker shock. First off, guarantee your rates through a tour operator based in the United States. When you book in advance at home, your costs for hotels, meals, and transportation will be fixed in advance.
When traveling between countries, try Europe's budget carriers such as Ryanair and Easy Jet. Fares can be surprisingly low as long as you don't exceed their baggage limits, so it is imperative to pack light. Also, learn to live without air-conditioning. Many no-frills hotels charge an extra fee for frigid air.
Next, leave your laptop at home. Wi-Fi networks are still developing and its easier and cheaper to simply pop into an internet caf?, and lastly, don't over tip. Remember, service charges are usually included.
Other money saving tips include:
Ditch the cabs. Use commuter trains and subways between airports and city centers.
Check tourism board websites for free events.
Get a GSM cell phone, but buy a local SIM Card when you arrive.
Forget your soda fix. A can of coke can bust your budget.
Watch your wallet. Your money isn't worth anything if it's stolen.
Now here's a Delia?s Deal you don't want to miss for budget hotels in Europe, check out www.eurocheapo.com.
For more ?D?Elia Deals? and travel information, visit www.travelwithval.com.
- Valarie D?Elia
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