I’ve discussed the weak state of the U.S. dollar (against the euro) in several previous blogs and if any (or all) of them has deterred you from traveling abroad, perhaps this posting will change that.
The good news is that there are many ways to stretch your dollar in Europe–as long as you know where to go. A number of countries have yet to enter the European Union or adopt its currency, and you might be surprised at just how affordable they are, even after the exchange rate. So, if you are looking to save some dough on your next international trip consider avoiding Paris, Rome, and Madrid and heading to Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Switzerland, Hungary, or Slovakia instead.
Take a look at how much you can save by doing so:
ROMANIA
Romania is an Eastern European country that many travelers associate with Transylvania (the alleged home of Lord Dracula) and the scenic Danube Delta, but very few know its capital of Bucharest, dubbed “the Paris of the East”, is equally as exciting. For about $1100 you can visit the country with Continental Journeys’ eight-night land-only tour and find out for yourself how enchanting the area really is. The price includes lodging, meals, and tours (to Bucharest, Transylvania, and more), but not airfare.
POLAND
Despite being a member of the European Union since 2004, Poland still uses the local Polish zloty, which is good news for U.S. travelers looking to stretch their dollars. Of course, once the euro switchover occurs this history-rich country will likely be as expensive to visit as Paris. Before that happens you might consider taking advantage of
Austrian Airlines Vacations package that includes tours of Poland’s two major cities-—the cultural capital of Krakow and Warsaw, the country’s official capital. For $1,600 you will get air transportation from New York, Chicago or Washington, D.C.; six nights’ lodging with daily breakfast in a four-star hotel (three nights in each city); and rail transfer between the destinations. But, you’ll have to act fast as this offer expires at the end of May.
BULGARIA
Another non-euro destination that will give your wallet a break is Bulgaria, a country whose highlights include Sofia, one of Europe’s oldest capitals; a string of Black Sea beach towns; and pristine mountain villages. For $1,200 Austrian Airlines Vacations is offering a three-night escape with lodging at the Hilton; buffet breakfast daily; and flight from New York, Chicago or Washington, D.C. The travel deal is good through May 15, 2008.
Related Articles:
New Payment Options for Tourist in New York
Traveling Abroad with a Weak Dollar
Staying Healthy on Trips Abroad
What To Know Before You Visit—AUSTRIA, SPAIN and PORTUGAL
What To Know Before You Visit–IRELAND, SWITZERLAND and POLAND
What To Know Before You Visit–FRANCE