Europe is an amazing continent. Money should not stop you from experiencing its beauty. The sooner you can plan your adventure, the more likely you are to get the price you want. Airlines and hotels often up their prices the closer you get to the desired travel date.
Transportation:
Getting to Europe can be one of your greatest expenses. If you have saved up any frequent flier points now would be a great time to use them. Another option is to get passage on a ship sailing to Europe. You can exchange transportation, room and board for work on the ship.
The sooner you can book your flight the cheaper it will be. There are many discount airlines in Europe so do you research to find the cheapest one. Keep in mind that traveling in Europe is quite popular, there are also more popular times. If you are traveling in the tourist season, or during a long weekend or festival, cheap flights will tend to go a lot faster. If you can’t seem to find a reasonable flight price try changing your dates. Even by just a few days can help. Flights are generally more expensive on weekends then during the work week.
Because there are so many discount airlines in Europe, this can be a great way to travel the continent. It is quick and efficient. However if you want to go on the more scenic route the train is perfect. You can buy the Eurail Global Pass which allows you to travel between 18 different countries. You can also purchase a One Country Pass that allows you to travel within that country on the train, unlimited, for that month.
Hitch hiking is a well established tradition in Europe. Families and truck drivers often stop to pick up strangers. Do this at your own discretion though. Never hitch hike alone, at night or in secluded areas. When touring a city using taxis and public transportation can be pricey. A cheap alternative is renting a bike or touring on foot. Most cities have a great bike rental system. Both of these options give you the flexibility to stop where you like and go at your own pace. It’s a great scenic way to explore the city. Don’t worry about getting lost, that’s part of the adventure!
Accommodation:
Again booking ahead can be key in finding a cheap hotel. It also guarantees that you get what you want. Good hotels at good prices go quickly. If you don’t want to book in advance then be prepared to be patient, adventurous and flexible when you are trying to find a place to stay.
Hostels are very popular in Europe. The further away from city center and tourist sites the cheaper it will be. Make sure you can still easily access the places you are interested in seeing. When choosing your room, choose one with more beds. Rooms with 6-10 beds are cheaper per bed, where as rooms with 2-4 beds will be more expensive.
Because youth hostels are so popular in Europe, you may be able to work for your room. Approach the person in charge politely and ask if there are any chores you can do in exchange for your room. They may even be generous enough to give you a meal.
Food:
Saving money on food when traveling can be the most difficult part. You want to eat well and save money at the same time. Experiencing different cultural foods can be one of the best parts of traveling.
The easiest way to save money on food when traveling in Europe is to keep your eating habits similar to when you are at home. Go to the grocery store. Buy bread and make sandwiches in your hotel room before heading out for the day. Granola bars, trail mix and fresh fruit are great inexpensive snacks that you can easily bring with you.
Of course you will still want to dine out and experience some of the culture in this way. Make sure you set a budget for dining out so that you know how often you can afford to do so.
Getting Out:
There are tons of free things to do in Europe. Just walk around and see what you find. Every country, city and town is unique so you will never be disappointed. There are tons of street performers; dancers, singers, mimes, magicians. People always congregate and watch these free shows. A great way to meet people and find out what everyone is doing. Just hang out where the Europeans hang out.
There are many museums and tourist attractions. A good way to save money is to stay away from these. You can have a great time doing day hikes, sightseeing and just riding your bike around the city. The architecture in Europe is beautiful and distinct in each new place. You will always be able to find something new and interesting to do.
Conclusion:
Taking an Adventure Vacation to Europe can be inexpensive and very interesting. You just have to plan ahead and go off the beaten path a little bit.
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