Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Reims and Verdun
Champagne-soaked Reims with its historic cathedral and
cellars serving the sparkling brew, and nearby Verdun, site of brutal WWI battles,
with a compelling, unforgettable memorial.
ConsidersavingtimeandmoneyinEuropebyflyingintoonecityandoutofanother;
for instance, into Nice and out of Paris. Most find the easygoing Mediterranean city of
Nice far easier than Paris as a starting point for their trip.
Surface Transportation:
For a three-week whirlwind trip of my recommended des-
tinations, allow $750 per person for public transportation (trains and buses). If you'll be
renting a car, figure $300 per week per person (based on two people sharing), not includ-
ingtolls,gas,andinsurance—orconsiderleasing,whichcansaveyoumoneyoninsurance
and taxes for trips of three weeks or more. Figure about $250 total per week for just gas
and tolls. Car rentals and leases are usually cheapest if arranged from the US. Rentals are
usually less expensive if you pick up and drop off outside a train station or airport (where
surcharges are often applied). Learn your options.
Train passes normally must be purchased outside of Europe but aren't necessarily
your best option—you may save money, and make your life easier, by buying tickets as
you go. Don't hesitate to consider flying, as budget airlines can be cheaper than taking the
train (check
www.skyscanner.com
for intra-European flights). For more on public trans-
portation and car rental, see “Transportation” in the appendix.
Room and Board:
Outside of Paris, you can thrive in France in 2014 on $150 a day
perpersonforroomandboard.Thisallows$15forbreakfast,$20forlunch,$45fordinner
with drinks, and $70 for lodging (based on two people splitting the cost of a $140 double
room). That's definitely doable. Allow 20 percent more for your days in Paris. Students
and tightwads can enjoy France for as little as $60 a day ($30 per bed, $30 for meals and
snacks).
Sightseeing and Entertainment:
Figure about $13 per major sight (Louvre-$14.50,
Abbey of Mont St-Michel-$12), $7 for minor ones (climbing church towers), $30 for
guided walks, and $25-60 for bus tours and splurge experiences (concerts in Paris' Sainte-
Chapelle or a ride on the Chamonix gondola). An overall average of $30 a day works for
most people. Don't skimp here. After all, this category is the driving force behind your
trip—you came to sightsee, enjoy, and experience France.
Shopping and Miscellany:
Figure $5 per ice-cream cone, coffee, or soft drink.
Shopping can vary in cost from nearly nothing to a small fortune. Good budget travelers
find that this category has little to do with assembling a trip full of lifelong and wonderful
memories.
