Traveling tips in Europe (Saving money)

It's not much different traveling in Europe from when I was a kid. (I was in Germany from 1997-2001 and out of that I did a year as a foreign exchange student with a family in London.) Now, I'm back and the only thing that really has changed is that the currency is Euro's no except for the UK, which still has the Sterling Pound. As an American, the Euro has the Dollar beat, which can sometimes make traveling or buying souvenirs a little difficult (or whatever your currency). So here are a few small tips to help you save.

• Plan out trips at least 3 months in advanced. This way you can save money on transportation (i.e. Train, Plane)
• Check your local news paper or recreation center, they usually have discounted trips.
• Try taking trips in a group, groups are always discounted. This will allow you to save money not only on transportation but hotels as well.
• Never accept tours from people that come to you and ask. This is a scam and also is a safety concern. Besides what's the fun in that? Grab a map and go explore!!!
• In a restaurant, order in sets. Some menus will display a certain amount of food and it will say, "Serves 2" etc.
• When buying souvenirs, buy them at the exact location you are at (i.e. Eiffel Tower). Let's say you want to get a small Eiffel Tower key chain or magnet. The further you get from it the more money you'll pay.
• In a big city, lets take for example Paris; Buy an all day (or days) Metro Pass, you can ride all day and night (Just don't lose it!!!). It will pay for itself and you won't have to stand at the kiosk. These passes are accepted on buses too, but the Metro is so much faster.
• Always bring water or your favourite type of drink. I usually carry a small back pack and I always  have water in it (along with small things I purchased). This will save you about 2-3 Euros. Every little bit counts right? ^_^

I hope that this is helpful. Exploring the world is what I have done, and was lucky for the opportunity to travel at such a young age. Don't be afraid, explore!!!

xoxo
*CiCi*