Despite the American dollar value, great deals still exist in Europe IF
You know where to look!
A few hotel tips from the Editor...
The American dollar is still weak against the Euro but it seems to be easing a bit. However, the recession in Europe is having an impact by creating some great hotel bargains that are beginning to ease the high cost of travel. The negotiated rack rates at many top hotels are being lowered by as much as 50% in some markets and 25% to 30% in general due to the economy. High season rack rates are simply a starting point, so contact the hotel directly and request special rates that may be available, particularly when booking several months in advance, staying for several nights or traveling in the shoulder seasons (often the best time to travel). Always negotiate the tariff rate, particularly in this economy (there are some particularly good bargains just now) but when negotiating, be specific regarding the room (recently renovated with updated bath) and amenities. Book early for the best deals and know the cancellation policy in case something better comes along. Always get a canceled reservation in writing.
When to travel for the best hotel deals!
You don't have to travel to Europe in the dead of winter to get a great hotel deal. You simply have to travel in the nicer weather before or after the crowds. Most cities have a slower time of year, and some even have a slower time of the week, and knowing these schedules can save a small travel fortune. For example, the summer season in France typically kicks off on July 14 (Bastille Day), making tariff rates at many hotels in late June a considerable bargain. When traveling to Brussels, a busy business center, and nearby medieval Bruges, a popular weekend getaway, consider scheduling the stay in Brussels on the weekend, when lower hotel occupancy cuts hotel costs in half, and Bruges during the latter part of the week (not Monday...many museums and restaurants are closed) when everything is open and hotels are anxious to fill empty rooms! Rome and Venice are both beautiful in May, but weekends are typically booked solid while Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are notorious for having better availability (and deals). Avoid the high-priced fair season in the Emilia-Romagna (actually in every city; special events are hotel budget killers), and try to avoid the month of August, when all of Europe is on holiday.
Hotels don't have to bargain if they are full, so knowing when to travel can save travel dollars without sacrificing hotel value. Larger hotels have much more flexibility than smaller hotels and the better-known small hotels may not have to negotiate in season, but many may consider including the VAT (Value Added Tax) and/or breakfast to fill that last room, which can save as much as 25% in some locations. A large, exclusive five-star in a major city can often offer a better deal than a small three star simply because they have many more rooms to fill, so evaluate options carefully and remember to get cancelled reservations in writing. Just like the person next to you on that airplane, the person in the next hotel room may be paying quite a bit less, as may be your friend at that top-rated five-star hotel. Despite the weak American dollar value, great deals still exist throughout Europe if you know where to look. Final note: each issue of The European Traveller discusses the specifics for the best bargains and travel times relative to each destination! To Subscribe: http://www.theeuropeantraveller.com
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