European Travel and the Declining Dollar
Written by tinabiba on March 12, 2008 – 9:37 pm -
In recent years, many Americans are reluctant to travel to Europe because of the U.S. dollar’s declining exchange rate. As of 3/04/2008, 1 euro was equivelant $1.52 U.S. If considering travel, this can drive up the cost of a European trip significantly, if you don’t do your research.
This is the second year in row I opted to travel to Europe on a cruise verses traveling independently. A cruise is an economical way to see Europe without worrying about the exchange rate. A 7-day cruise for 2 that visits 6 cities will cost less than if you traveled independently to the same destinations and paid for hotels, transportation and food in dollars converted to euros.
To begin the bargain hunt for a cruise, I suggest you choose a date, destinations and departure port ahead of time. Go directly to the cruise line sites like royalcaribbean.com and carnival.com to review costs and discounts from the operators. You will need to decide what type of cabin you desire as there are many choices. Some cabins will be offered at a discount or with perks like on-board credit for purchases. For example, Royal Caribbean offered a senior discount for promenade and ocean view cabins only. The cost of a promenade view with the senior discount (55 years or older) was the same cost as a interior room which generally goes for less. These discounts are often worth the cabin upgrade.
Once you have an idea of what your needs are, it is beneficial to call the cruise line and inquire for the least expensive cabins available. Then begin comparison shopping from there. Expedia.com and Travelocity.com actually offered the same cruise for less than the operators. Royal Caribbean will hold a reservation with a $250.00 deposit, which is fully refundable so you can game the system to find the best deal. Expedia will hold a cruise reservation for up to 7 days without a deposit. You must ask up front and keep in mind any penalties for canceling or changing a reservation. For instance, once you place a deposit with Expedia there is a $50.00 cancellation fee if you change your mind.
So, as the saying goes, what are you waiting for? Get out there and see the world.
Links: www.royalcarribean.com | www.carnival.com | www.expedia.com | www.travelocity.com
Photo Credit: Martin Meissner/AP Photo
Tags: Carnival, cruise, decline, dollar, Economy, euro, Europe, exchange rate, Expedia.com, food, hotels, Royal Caribbean, transportation, Travel, Travelocity.com
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