Kit in Florence |
Dear Friends,
With the dollar 15% lower against the Euro than it was last summer, I arrived in Florence, curious to see what my dollars could buy and eager to explore ways to keep costs down without sacrificing quality. I arrived on March 22nd, as the city was filling up for Easter, in time to witness the spectacular "Explosion of the Cart" in front of the Duomo. Although the weather was brutto, Florence was, as always, enchanting.
Of course, the biggest savings can be realized by traveling in low season; between October and March you can save 20-60% on airfare and accommodations and are also likely to enjoy a more intimate experience; but if you want to travel during high season, you might consider a lesser-known destination, where prices are lower. Obviously, we endorse the idea that staying in a villa or apartment is more authentic and less expensive than a hotel—especially if you prepare some meals at home, in your own kitchen.
While it's true that a dollar doesn't go as far as it once did, and you're not likely to find any bargains in the designer shopping outlets, the good news is, most of the everyday costs of living in Europe really don't cost any more than they do at home.
The trick is to save but still savor your European holiday to the fullest. That is what this newsletter is about—insider tips to help you save money without missing a thing.
Ciao, Kit |
