FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Tag: european travel

  • Stay Money Safe in Europe – Tips for Avoiding Scams

    Europe doesn’t have the bad boy reputation of some nations in the Middle East and Asia (read this article to learn how to avoid scammers in Bangkok, Thailand). However, it’s still important for international travelers to keep their wits about them. Failure to heed our money safety tips could be a costly mistake!

    Violent crime isn’t common in Europe, but it still has its fair share of criminals. While you’re you’re unlikely to be mugged for your cash and possessions, you could find your pockets picked by one of the continent’s cunning thieves. There are a few ways to avoid becoming a victim though. Wherever possible, avoid crowds. Busy subway cars and festivals provide a prime opportunity for pickpockets, as they can get close to people without causing alarm.

    If you can’t avoid a mob, make sure you keep your guard up. That rule applies if you’re out of crowds too. Pickpockets often work in pairs, with one person acting as a diversion while another nabs your stuff. Never become complacent with your possessions either. Sit your bag in your line of vision while dining out or waiting for public transport.

    If you’re particularly concerned, consider investing in a security handbag or backpack. These are typically made from slash-proof fabrics and feature tamper-proof zips. A money belt worn underneath clothing or a fake wallet designed to fool pickpockets are two more great security options.

    You’re not safe when you get back to your accommodation either, especially if you’re staying in a dorm-style hostel room. Make sure you lock up any valuables to deter sticky fingers.

    More high-tech theft is also on the rise in Europe. This type of crime is so advanced that it’s difficult to do much about. However, there are still some measures you can take to protect your vacation budget. Using cash or traveler’s checks will protect you from the credit and debit card skimming scams that are gaining popularity. If you must use plastic, opt for credit as it’s easier to contest any fraudulent transactions. If you’re using a debit card to retrieve cash from an automatic teller machine, cover the keypad when you enter your PIN. Some thieves set up cameras to record this information, but they won’t score your details!

    Taxi drivers aren’t the most honest workers in Europe, particularly in Eastern nations. They perceive tourists as naïve and wealthy, and they often try to take advantage. Make sure you book a taxi through a reputable firm rather than simply hailing one on the street. The cabs that park at taxi stands also tend to be honest, although you may still find the occasional bad apple. Ask your driver what your journey should cost before taking off. Compare this with estimates you’ve gained earlier from local friends or accommodation staffers. Refuse to ride with a driver who claims his meter is broken. Some merely refuse to turn it on, and overcharge their passenger at the journey’s end.

    An overpriced fare isn’t all you have to worry about though. Some unscrupulous taxi drivers have been known to target tourists’ possessions. Keep your bags with you in the back seat, rather than the trunk, to avoid losing your cargo. You also shouldn’t let a taxi driver change your travel plans. Some may claim to be helpful by suggesting clubs or restaurants, but they’re likely to earn a commission from these establishments on the side.

    After a few drinks it’s easy to drop your guard. However many scammers prey on intoxicated club goers. That pretty girl might not be hitting on you because she’s dazzled by your wit. She could be part of one of the most common scams in Europe. She’ll flirt and entice you to her favorite bar or restaurant, where you’ll happily agree to buy her drinks. What you won’t learn until you receive the bill though is that those drinks are costing you hundreds of euro a piece. By the time you learn this that hottie will be nowhere to be seen, but you will find a few burly barmen demanding that you pay up. So don’t be a sucker; ask how much each drink costs when placing your order. A similar scam is also common at strip clubs, so make sure you have your wits about you on your boozy boys’ nights out.

    Keyboard with three money keysNo matter what scam or unsavory person you hope to avoid, it’s not smart to show your wealth. You might be proud of your designer clothes and high-tech electronics, but these items will make you a target. Also stick to well-trafficked, well-lit areas and walk with confidence. The more self-assured you appear, the more likely you are to avoid becoming a victim and keep your money safe in Europe.

  • Tipping in Europe – Service Etiquette Abroad

    While tipping is an expected practice in North America, it’s less common in other parts of the world. Learning when to tip, and how much, can save you money when you’re dining abroad. We’ve already looked at tipping practices in Asia, so now we turn our focus to Europe.

    Europe doesn’t face the same etiquette issues that Asia does. No waiter will feel embarrassed if you slip a few extra euros his way. However many Americans tend to tip well over what’s expected. While a tip of 10% in the USA means a dining experience was poor to average, in Europe it’s considered very generous. Remember that, unlike in the States, wait staff in Europe don’t rely on their tips to make a living. For this reason, you should never tip in Europe if you do not enjoy excellent service.

    Make sure to check your receipt carefully, as many establishments simply add a service charge to the bill which covers your tip. This is very common in Belgium, England, France, Ireland, and Scotland. If you’re particularly impressed by the service you may wish to simply round up to the nearest euro, but it’s not really necessary. However extra tipping of between 5 and 10% on top of the service charges for exemplary service isn’t unusual in Austria, The Netherlands, Portugal, and Switzerland.

    When a service charge isn’t added, there are countries where tipping is customary. If this charge isn’t printed on the bill, you might consider leaving a small tip of around 10% in the Czech Republic (particularly in the tourist areas), Italy, Scotland, and Ireland. While service charges are never added to the bills in Hungary, a tip of between 10 and 15% is customary.

    There are exceptions to the rule though. Restaurants in Germany and Greece tend to slug you twice though. While service charges are typically added to the bills in Germany, a 10% tip is also customary. In Greece, you should leave a tip of between 5 and 10% in addition to the 13% service charge.

    It’s also worth noting that even if it’s not itemized, a service charge will generally be added to the restaurant bills in Spain. No additional payment is required, although if you’re feeling particularly generous you can offer an extra tip. Just make sure you keep it under 10% of the bill.

    Euro coinsEven when you’re paying with credit, it’s best to tip your wait staff with cash. This will ensure the money goes to the server rather than the restaurant. Also resist the urge to throw some extra money at your bartender. Tipping at pubs and clubs isn’t necessary, so keep you money in your wallet for the next night’s drinks!

  • See Lisbon for Less – Affordable European Vacation in Portugal

    A summer getaway to a European city with stunning views and Mediterranean weather sounds heavenly, doesn’t it? And expensive. But it doesn’t have to be. Forget Rome and Spain’s Basque Region; your Euros will go much further in Portugal’s capital, Lisbon.

    Strolling about the city’s winding back alleys, its quaint museums, and majestic Gothic cathedrals, you’ll wonder why more people don’t make the journey. The city is a bit of a European secret, with all the history and culture of the other capitals without the hefty prices.

    Lisbon is easily accessible by air road, sea, and rail. If you’re short on time, flying is the best way to travel. You’ll find the cheapest rates to Lisbon Portela Airport using one of the many flight comparison websites. The airport is just four miles north of the city, so it’s easy to reach your hotel once you touch down. If you’ve got more time up your sleeve you could enjoy the countryside from an Intercity train or your hire car. International cruise ships also dock in Lisbon, but that option will leave a nasty hole in your bank balance.

    Once your travel arrangements are sorted you’ll need to think about where to stay. So many frugal travelers book the cheapest place they find, but if you’ve got a little extra money it’s worth doing your research. Often the difference between a one-star hovel in the old town and a four-star room in the chic Marques de Pombal district is as little as $25US. If you’ve been slumming it in hostels around Europe, a plush bed in Lisbon can feel like heaven!

    Lisbon’s taxis are also reasonably priced when compared to the rest of Europe, but those fares can still add up. The city’s public transport systems are both affordable and efficient. Buses and trams criss-cross the city, taking tourists to the city’s main attractions. If you don’t mind feeling like a sardine in a can you’ll appreciate the speed and low fares of the metro. And you’ll enjoy the scenery as you cross the Tagus River on the ferry.

    Walking is always the cheapest option though, and Lisbon is small enough to make this feasible in most cases. Many locals also speak English, and they’re so friendly that they’ll point you in the right direction if you lose your way. The city is quite hilly though, so you might want to work on your fitness before you leave. The challenging trails are perfect for burning the calories from lunch though!

    When money matters, leave Via Augusta behind and head to the back streets. The restaurants here are much more affordable than the ones you’ll find along the main tourist strip, although you’ll still need to watch for sneaky extras. Waiters will often put bread and cheese on the table, but these tempting tidbits aren’t free. They look delicious, and the cheese always is, but resist the temptation if you want a cheap meal. If you’re not very hungry forget the restaurants and cafes and head to a bakery instead. These eateries offer an array of affordable and tasty savory snacks.

    Once the essentials are sorted it’s time to have some fun. Lisbon has plenty of free and close to free ways to occupy your time. It doesn’t cost a lot to soak up some culture at the city’s museums. While admission is always affordable, you can visit the Museum of Ancient Art and National Tile Museum for free on Sunday mornings. If you’d like to do things more leisurely, the Gulbenkian Museum has free admission on Sundays from opening to close.

    Admission to the National Palace of Sintra is also free on Sundays. This 13th century castle is the best preserved in the country. You don’t need to be an architecture buff to appreciate the Moorish mosaics, the majestic domed ceilings, and some 72 coats of arms. And if you haven’t had your fill of breathtaking buildings you can take in the Jeronimus Monastery and Belem Tower.

    I can’t promise you won’t spend money, but it’s free to browse the Feira de Ladra. This famous flea market is held on Tuesdays and Saturdays near St Vincent de For a Church. It’s fun to peruse the eclectic mix of items, and a great place to find affordable souvenirs.

    The National Palace of Sintra, Lisbon
    The National Palace of Sintra, Lisbon

    And it’s always free to spend time lounging on the beach. You’ll find several stretches of sand along the coast between Lisbon and Cascais. Guincho has an international reputation for enviable surf, while Carcavelos is family friendly. If you travel a little further from the city center you’ll find secluded Adraga Beach, regarded as one of the best in Europe. It’s worth the journey to soak up the romance of this unspoiled paradise.

    So whether it’s sun and sand or a cultural adventure you’re after, you’ll find it for less in Lisbon.

  • Vacation for Less in Majorca – Affordable Spanish Island Getaway

    With Europe’s finances in tatters, tourists around the globe are enjoying rock bottom airfares. However once you set foot on the continent you may be in for a rude shock, as many European cities are still as expensive to experience as they ever were. But you needn’t strike the continent from your vacation wish list just yet. The Spanish island of Majorca offers all the glamour and culture of Europe for far less than you’d expect. It’s sadly seen as the poor cousin to neighboring Ibiza, but it’s a reputation that’s undeserved. The Spanish port is just as beautiful by day, and just as exciting by night.

    The best things about Majorca really are free. There are worse ways to spend a day than lounging about the island’s pristine beaches and frolicking in the Mediterranean Ocean. The coastline’s sheltered underwater coves will delight divers with their unique variety of marine creatures.

    If you begin to tire of the wet stuff the sprawling Tramuntana Mountain range is perfect for exploring. Serra de Tramuntana as the locals call it has earned UNESCO World Heritage status for its breathtaking natural beauty and cultural significance. While the highest peak Puig Major is not accessible to the public, driving down the R710 from Andratx to Pollenca is a great way to see the sights. If you prefer to go it on foot there are some beautiful hiking trails around Lluc, Soller, and Pollenca.

    Visiting the capital city of Palma can drain your finances, but it costs nothing to explore the streets of the Old Town and soak up the atmosphere at bustling European marketplaces. You can also take in works by Salvadore Dali, Pablo Picasso, and more at the acclaimed Museo d’Art Espanyol Contemporani and see the historic Arab Baths for free.

    If all that activity doesn’t tire you out, Majorca’s nightlife certainly will. Magaluf’s bars and nightclubs often host internationally renowned DJs like David Guetta and Judge Jules. You can generally purchase a ticket for a night out, including all alcoholic drinks, for less than €25.

    If the thumping clubs aren’t your scene, head to Puerto Pollensa Marina. This picturesque waterfront spot is a great place for enjoying Spanish food and wine, with a side order of romance.

    Eating in Majorca is a great pleasure that need not empty your bank account. In the Franco years the Generalissimo declared that Spain’s working class should enjoy at least one substantial and affordable meal each day. In this tradition local restaurants offer a menu del dia at lunchtime, generally consisting of three courses and a glass of vino to wash it down. Expect to pay around €10 at a basic restaurant, or €20 at a high-end eatery.

    By filling up at lunch you won’t need to eat too much in the evening. That makes it the perfect time to try tapas, which are small dishes designed to be shared. This style of dining provides a great opportunity for trying unfamiliar dishes including the rustic paella called arros brut, the spicy pork sausage sobrassada, and the roast vegetable salad called tumbet.

    If you’re spending time in Palma, resist the temptation to hire a car. Buses are plentiful, and their fares cost a lot less than the city’s parking fees. Alternatively you could rent a bike and soak up the city and it’s surrounds at a slower pace. Hire cars are useful if you’re spending time out of town though as public transport in less common.

    Majorca’s temperate climate means there’s never really a bad time to visit, although if you’ve got your heart set on time spent on the beach you may want to avoid winter. While it’s never incredibly cold, even in June and July, the ocean can get a bit chilly. Affordable airfares are available all year round, although you’ll enjoy a discount if you fly in the evening or during the week.

    A small street in Palma, Majorca
    A small street in Palma, Majorca

    Once you’re there you’ll find a diverse range of accommodation from hostels to five-star resorts. As with most international destinations, accommodation in Majorca costs the most in the high season. If you insist on staying from April to October you may need to stay a little further from the beach or book a package holiday to see value for money. Many frugal travelers will be impressed with the number of all-inclusive hotel deals available for less than €20 a night.

    The savings in Majorca will ensure you have more to spend on your next European vacation port, if you can bear to leave!

  • Australian Hostels in Europe – Affordable Aussie-Themed Backpackers Accommodation

    Many Northerners long for the warm weather and knockabout charm of an Australian vacation. But even with the affordable accommodation offered by Australian youth hostels, the airfares alone put a journey Down Under out of the reach of many frugal travelers. Yet you needn’t starve yourself to afford a little piece of Oz, with many Australian themed backpackers popping up all over Europe.

    When most Europeans think of Australian style hostels they think of Wombats.  No, not the stocky marsupial, but the chain with locations in Vienna, Berlin, and Munich. Despite its Australian animal inspired name, the Wombats company isn’t owned by Aussies. However there’s a touching story behind that moniker. It came about when Germany’s Sascha Bock and Marcus Praschinger met charismatic local John “The Sucker” O’Sullivan while traveling in Oz. John dreamed of owning a hostel named after his favorite marsupial, but died before he ever got the opportunity. This budget chain is a tribute to him, and a realization of his goals. Something tells me John would approve of these lively establishments, with their famous womBars.

    Latvia seems an unlikely place for dinky-di digs, but the country’s capital Riga actually has a couple of Australian themed backpackers’ hostels. Aussie ex-pat Frank turned the city’s medieval castle into Friendly Fun Frank’s. This cheery hostel offers views of the picturesque Daugava River and the equally appealing good looks of its stunning female staffers. No wonder male travelers can’t resist stopping here! The convenient location, just a stone’s throw from Riga’s clubs and pubs, probably doesn’t hurt any either. And if you don’t feel like stepping out, you can always down a few cleansing ales at the hostel’s 24-hour sports bar.

    Riga is also home to the Australian themed Argonaut. It’s run by a former Aussie army officer, but the atmosphere is anything but rigid. This place is all about getting out and experiencing all that life has to offer, just as the Aussies do. Hostel employees organize hot-air ballooning tours, shooting excursions, snowboarding and skiing adventures, and even skydiving. While the rooms are basic there are some real perks, including free WiFi in every dorm and complimentary breakfast each morning. The hostel is located on one of the city’s best shopping streets, far away from the capital’s infamous striptease clubs. That might disappoint some male travelers, but this up market neighborhood should give skittish travelers some peace of mind.

    Continue your Australian experience in the Baltic region with a stay at Croatia’s Ravnice Hostel. Its owner Vera Pesjak was born in Zagreb, but lived in Australia during the 90s. While she’s returned to the place of her birth, her hostel ensures her adopted homeland isn’t too far from her thoughts. Pesjak’s warm hospitality helps to make up for the location, which is far from Zagreb’s city center. A tram will take you to the heart of town, but it’s a bit inconvenient for a night out. The suburban location means the Ravnice attracts a more subdued clientele than the average hostel. It’s a great place for chilling out and making some genuine connections in Croatia.Australia globe

    So Europe’s Australian themed hostels might not always offer the most reliable representation of life in Oz, but there’s a certain appeal to their kitschy homage to the Land Down Under. They’ll never be a true substitute for a trip to the Southern Hemisphere, but they’re a fun accommodation alternative for a budget European vacation!

  • Money Saving Tips for Europe – Make Your Euro Go Further

    No continent screams luxury travel like Europe does. While it’s certainly possible to spend a small fortune on a lavish European getaway, frugal travelers needn’t abandon their dreams of a historical tour of Athens or a lazy beach holiday on the French Riviera. With a few clever choices and our insider advice you can have a great time in Europe and return home with a few Euros in your pocket.

    Most travelers naturally assume Europe’s efficient public transport system is the best way to get around. But if you’re staying for a month or more, leasing a car can be a surprisingly affordable option. Many of the big European car companies, including Peugot, Citroen, and Renault, offer long-term leases. It can cost around $50 a day, but if you’re traveling with a large group of mates or the family that can be less than you’d spend on public transport. Hiring a car also gives you the freedom to venture off the beaten track, which is excellent way to avoid the crowd and discover some of Europe’s often overlooked villages. These smaller townships also tend to offer cheaper accommodation and dining, so the savings can really add up! The websites Drive Travel and Holiday Autos are great starting points for organizing a long-term rental car.

    Whether you’re hiring a car or relying on the continent’s own transport it’s worth seeking out those underrated countries. Italy, Greece, Germany, and France are so popular that hoteliers, restaurateurs, and tour operators can charge the big bucks. So why not take the path less traveled and see Turkey, Latvia, or Moldova. And if you needed further convincing, they sell beer for less than water in Slovakia!

    Camping might seem like slumming it to the travel snobs, but it’s worth being open minded. You may want to avoid the practice during winter, but in summer the weather is perfect for appreciating the great outdoors. Many campsites are also cleaner than the European hostels, and unlike many countries they’re often conveniently located in the city. European camping grounds charge for your tent, the number of people staying there, and your car park. As a guide those charges tend to run between $12 and $20 a night, depending on your campground’s country and location.

    Once accommodation and travel are taken care of, you’ll need to consider what you’re going to do in your chosen destinations. Entry fees to tourist attractions can get pricy, so it’s smart to plan ahead. Bulk sightseeing passes including the London Pass and Paris Museum Pass give travelers entry to a large number of attractions at a big discount. There are also plenty of free things to see in most major European cities, including the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. Make sure these are on your itinerary, and research the other freebies in your local guidebook. Seeing them is a great way to spend time without spending a cent.Keyboard with three money keys

    Then you’ll need to think about what you’re eating. It’s all too easy to spend a fortune at those Michelin Star restaurants. If you’re camping or staying in a hotel or apartment with a kitchenette you can save a lot of money by cooking your own food. If you are venturing out, try and eat as the locals do. By venturing off the tourist path you can discover some wonderful hole-in-the-wall restaurants that serve amazing food, without the high overheads.

    And finally, please brush up on the language. If you make an effort to speak with the locals in their own dialect you’re much more likely to enjoy a bargain on your European vacation!

  • Make The Most of Your European Vacation

    Get the most out of your European Vacation by utilizing these FrugalMonkey Travel Tips.

    With budget travel being so reasonable, people are finding deal after deal that will allow them to fly overseas and enjoy a European vacation. In addition to this, travelers are enjoying better exchange rates against the dollar then there has been in recent years, adding to the affordability of European travel.


    FrugalMonkey wants to offer these tips to European travelers to assist you in saving on airfare and overall vacation costs during your trip.

    Travel To Europe During the Off Season     – By traveling on the cusp of high season travel to Europe, you can save hundreds on hotels and flight prices. High season for sunny locations tends to be in the summer and areas of Europe that are known as winter wonderlands will be more expensive during the winter months. If you can book your flight and hotel during the off-season hotels, flights and activity prices will be cheaper. If you still want to enjoy high season perks, try traveling on the cusp of off-season dates. In doing so you can often find amazing travel deals and off-season prices while still experiencing some of the better weather during your European vacation. By picking the right date, you will save on travel costs. Think off-season!

    Utilizing Travel Auction Sites – Sure you know all about Travelocity, Kayak and Orbitz but think globally and try booking flights with some of the European travel auction outfitters. For example, Ryanair.com provides extraordinarily cheap airline prices in and around Europe in addition to providing rental car deals, hotel packages and vacation discounts. USA Today recently published an article about a traveler who was able to fly from Rome to Paris cheaper then taking a similar train route by simply taking advantage of European travel auction sites. In order to take advantage of the savings check out Ryanair.com, Euroflights.com, Brussels Air, Easy Jet, Sky Europe, Easy Jet and SmarterTravel.com. Asia.com provides flight discounts into Asia and check out Air Baltic for excellent deals into Eastern Europe. Travelocity is also widely used throughout Europe and can be a great way to book your initial flight overseas and then subsequent flights throughout the continent once you are there. Travel auction sites continue to be a great way to find discounts.

    Get Outside The Tourist Trap     – The most expensive way to travel is by following every sight and sound listed in the guidebooks.


    Touristy locations are likely to have the most expensive prices and be the activities that will cost you the most on your vacation. Look around or ask a friend who has traveled previously some of the less touristy places to visit in the European city you are visiting. Cheaper food and cheaper stay could save you a lot of money over the course of a longer vacation.

    Plan Ahead     – By planning ahead, booking flights ahead of time, booking hotels and hostels ahead of time you will ultimately save money due to avoiding last minute expenses. It will also give you the luxury of shopping around to find the best rental car discounts, the cheapest hotel stays and the best flight schedules. Thinking ahead, and booking your vacation early will allow you to enjoy better discounts and ultimately a better vacation.

    By utilizing FrugalMonkey travel tips such as these you will save money and enjoy a better European vacation!