Based on the times way back, when the US dollar could buy so much more in Europe, Europe was the perfect vacation spot for Americans…

Now that the situation is not in the US dollar’s favor, Europe is still a great place to explore, visit and spend one’s vacation. Although the American travelers need to prepare their trips well, the decision where to go, which hotels to use, which countries to visit, could make a huge difference in how expensive their trip will be at the end….

I will come back to this site from time to time with some great ideas…. But here is one: It is less expensive in certain European countries compared to others and I will mention them in detail in future posts, 4 and 5 star hotels in Europe are very expensive…. so for the frugal traveler in Europe there are a few interesting choices: a) a very good idea is to find places where there is an American Hotel chain, for example a Holiday Inn…. various advantages, the price per night will be similar to the US, with usually larger rooms, a pool and free break fast buffet and free parking unless in a major city.

b) another really useful way to save on hotel expenses is to stay in smaller towns, small hotels or pensiones, as the service there will be very nice, and much less expensive, but be prepared rooms may be really small!

c) instead of renting a car using the vast European train connections is another way to save on expenses….

Good Planning and early on is important, for availability and convenience …. There is so much to see in Europe and one can get from one country into another in very little time…. Planning where to go and how much time to spend in each place is absolutely necessary.

Next blog I will talk about a few countries I have been to and what to see and do there. Chicago Connection

PS Anyone who has traveled during the last 2 years to Europe and had a good or bad experience, let us know, share it with us!