With recent currency exchange rates favouring the Euro versus the U.S. dollar, Americans who travel to Europe this summer may find their money may not go quite as far as in the past. Current exchange rates make €1 Euro worth about $1.55 U.S. dollars. So, it’s important for travelers to know which European countries use the Euro, which don’t, and how to stretch their Europe travel budgets. Don’t let the rising prices of fuel and state of the world get you down!
The euro (its currency sign is €) is the official currency of the European Union, or EU. It is used in 15 EU member states, known collectively as the Eurozone: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain. EU countries that do not use the Euro include Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Slovakia is expected to be the next country to switch over to the Euro, which should occur in 2009.
Currency rates fluctuate daily and are affected by national and world events. As a result, it’s difficult to predict exactly how strong the U.S. dollar will be against the Euro and other European currencies at any given time. Still, travelers who want to ensure good value for their European vacation dollars this summer have some options.
3 Tips to Get the Most of the Euro on your Summer Holiday in Europe
Focus on the countryside instead of the major cities. Traveling the scenic country roads and through the historic smaller towns of Europe can provide better value than expensive cities. Eastern European countries such as Croatia may also provide a more affordable vacation.
Cruise your way through Europe. A cruise of the Mediterranean, the Greek Isles or the Baltic Sea is a wonderful way to see beautiful coastal scenery, landmarks and cities. There are also exceptional cruise opportunities to be found on some of Europe’s major rivers like the Rhine and the Danube. No matter which type of cruise appeals to you most, you’ll also have the advantage of paying for your cruise – which includes accommodations, meals and lots of shipboard amenities – in U.S. dollars.- However you choose to see Europe, work with a travel professional. A travel expert knows how to find the most affordable ways to see Europe, whether through tour packages, special discounts or lesser-known destinations.
For more info on booking your trip to Europe, don’t forget to visit: www.StonyPointTravel.com .