Since the dollar is worth less and less each day in Europe (it is now $1.33 US to the Euro) everything is roughly 20% more now than last year. People were complaining about the expense in Europe in 2006…just you wait. An appetizer of risotto in Milan is 20 Euro ($27 US) and a main dish consisting of fish with no vegetables (only an herb sprig to look at) is 40 Euro ($53 US). So, for a mere $90 US you can have a good meal but with no wine, dessert or beverages…they are extra. I guess you can eat sandwiches standing up and save some money (they charge about 5 to 10 Euros more if you wish to sit while having your sandwich or coffee) but in either case, bring plenty of cash. The best way is to stock your ATM account before you leave and compare those charges with the currency exchange fee of about 3% that your bank will charge converting dollars to Euros when you use it. And remember to always inform your bank and credit card companies that you will be traveling, especially if it is out of the country. One of our Fairfield, Connecticut clients was denied use of their own credit card when their bank noticed a flurry of foreign charges and froze their account. All for your own protection, but nonetheless annoying!
I did go scouting for more reasonable accommodations in Italy for our clients, ones that are under 400 Euros a night, but it was not an easy task. I cannot stress enough that you will not get luxury for that amount. They will be well located (most important) and clean, but with small rooms and fewer amenities available. Get ready to enjoy Europe, it is still a truly wonderful destination and one can visit the same destination many times and not repeat the sites. Don’t get hung up on your accommodation unless you have an unlimited budget…you can still enjoy it all. And please beware of booking your hotels online…if you have a problem, don’t forget your laptop! Make it simple for yourself and always use a travel professional!
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