Finding Inexpensive Lodging In Europe
Many first time travelers make the incorrect assumption that a
European vacation is beyond their means, but this is often not
the case.
One of the biggest costs associated with any vacation, including
travel to countries in Europe, is lodging, but it is possible to
fund budget accommodations that are clean, safe and centrally
located.
One of the secrets to finding affordable budget accommodations
when traveling to Europe is to check out the many bed and
breakfast hotels that are common in Europe. The average bed and
breakfast in Europe is much different than its American
counterpart.
Whereas many bed and breakfast's in the United States are
luxurious, and expensive destinations, Europeans generally
regard bed and breakfast hotels as inexpensive places to stay,
and they can be much more affordable than hotels in similar
locations.
Most bed and breakfast hotels in European destinations are
small, family run hotels.
In many cases, the family has their living quarters right on the
premises, and the hotel generally provides free breakfast with
the price of the room.
There are many places to look for European bed and breakfast
hotels, including the Internet, destination travel guides,
Internet news groups and travel review web sites.
While some of the larger bed and breakfast hotels have their own
web sites, many do not, and word of mouth is often the best way
to find them.
There are also booking services that will book the bed and
breakfast hotel for you for a small fee (usually around 10%).
These booking services can be very valuable, especially if you
do not speak the local language.
Even if you did not plan ahead, chances are you will still be
able to find an affordable bed and breakfast hotel when you
arrive.
The arrivals area of most European airports has at least one
booking desk to help travelers without reservations find
affordable accommodations. Just be sure you have a local map
handy so you don't get stuck with a hotel in the middle of
nowhere.
There are some important things to keep in mind when booking a
bed and breakfast or similar budget accommodations in European
destinations.
There are important differences in lodgings between Europe and
the United States, and first time travelers to Europe are often
caught unawares.
Below is a list of items to consider when booking lodging for
your European vacation:
1. Your budget accommodations will likely be clean, but basic.
In most cases the surroundings will not be fancy or luxurious,
but they will be functional and clean.
2. The rooms at a budget hotel or bed and breakfast will
probably be small, and closet space may be limited or even
non-existent.
3. The least expensive rooms will have bathroom and shower
facilities located down the hall, while more expensive rooms may
have an in room bathroom and tub.
4. A room that has only a shower will usually be less costly
than one that includes a bathtub as well. If this is an
important consideration, be sure to ask about the bathroom
facilities when making your reservation.
5. Rooms equipped with a double bed are generally less costly
than those with twin beds.
6. If you are driving, there is almost always an extra charge
for parking. Be sure to ask about the parking charge when making
your reservation.
7. Be sure to buy a good map of the city you will be visiting,
and make sure the hotel or bed and breakfast you choose is
centrally located. It is often better to choose lodging that it
within walking distance of several attractions you will be
visiting, even if the room is slightly more expensive. Choosing
a centrally located hotel or bed and breakfast will save you
both time and money for transportation.
8. When booking your lodging, be sure the price you are quoted
includes all local taxes and applicable fees.