Even with the value of the dollar approaching that of the euro, Americans traveling in Europe on a budget still need to be creative and mindful. The following suggestions can help any traveler, but especially those who prefer traveling independently. Airfare Finding the lowest airfares to Europe can be incredibly time-consuming. I turn to a reputable travel agent who may charge a fee but ... Read Full Article
Best Paris 3 Star Hotels and Budget accommodation – by Arrondissement
Best Paris 3 Star Hotels and Budget Hotels by Arrondissement Finding a great Paris 3 star hotel is a joy. There really are some 3 star hotels in Paris that are better than 4 star hotels. Stars many-times are awarded for amenities like larger rooms or restaurants, not on the quality of the hotel experience itself. In any case, if you want to go out and explore Paris, you won't spend much time in ... Read Full Article
Finland Tourist Information
Finland is a highly developed nation with a tiny population and some of the most pristine landscape in Europe. Some of the best things to do here are hike through the national parks, jump into a spa or sauna or watch the northern lights dance in Lapland. The capital, Helsinki, is one of the safest and most convenient cities in the world and the small towns and cities outside of Helsinki are ... Read Full Article
Going to Europe? Consider a Bed and Breakfast
For many people, the term “bed and breakfast” conjures images of calico covered rooms, creaky antique furniture and enforced socialization. At some B&Bs, this stereotype isn’t far off the mark (a peek at the B&Bs website will make it instantly obvious). But at others, rooms decked out in garish floral patterns and delicate doilies have been replaced with chic, modern rooms ... Read Full Article
Lodging in Italy: Try an Alberghi Diffuso
The alberghi diffuso is a “diffuse hotel”, a new style of hotel where the facilities are spread out over several locations. When lodging in Italy you want to find options that are affordable, but also enable you to have a unique Italy experience. Check-in may be in one building and the hotel restaurant in another, with guest rooms spread among the village. The alberghi diffuso trend is usually in ... Read Full Article
Wine, Dine and Dream: Hotel-Restaurants in Languedoc Roussillon
As you can can tell from my previous posts, I am in love with the Languedoc Roussillon region of France. Aside from the fabulous sightseeing and wonderful weather (300+ days of sun a year), it has its share of charming and many-times inexpensive hotels with gastronomic restaurants. I wouldn't call myself a "foodie", but I do love good food, prepared by someone who loves to prepare good food, ... Read Full Article
Best Luxury Hotels in Paris – by Arrondissement
These are, in our opinion, the best luxury hotels in Paris. They each have special amenities and services that make them stand head and shoulders above the thousands of other hotels in the city of light. 1st Arrondissement The first Arrondissement is in the very heart of the city. It is walking distance to most tourist sites and to some excellent restaurants and some of the best luxury hotels in ... Read Full Article
Finding Hotels in Paris
Finding lodging in Paris is not a problem as long as you have unlimited funds and you are booking early. But it seems that most people are looking for the quintessentially charming yet inexpensive French hotel. Those are not so easy to find and you'll get precious little help by relying on the French star system for guidance. In France, stars are awarded based on 22 different criteria for such ... Read Full Article
England Tourist Information
England is the largest nation comprising the United Kingdom and it is home to the country’s primary parliament, in Westminster. It is also home to the largest city in the UK, London, one of the most visited capitals in all of Europe. England also has other top tourist cities, including Manchester and Birmingham. The English countryside is also a well sought after attraction, from the rolling ... Read Full Article