Reasons for Rising Costs in Europe:
Currency: This is the #1 culprit. As late as 2010 you could buy a euro for about $1.19. Today it is up by about 18% to about $1.40. Taking into account no inflation at all, the price of a European vacation has gone up 20% and the trend is that the dollar will get weaker.
More Travelers: There are more travelers coming from all over the world to visit Europe, especially Asia and South America. This has put greater demand on hotels, restaurants, and airfares forcing prices upwards.
Airfares: In 2009, it was easy to find an airfare to Europe for under $1,000, even during peak summer periods. That's up over 50% now.
Costs: A year ago we could purchase museum admission on a Firenze Card for 50 euros. Today it is up a staggering 24% to 72 euros.
So, the trend if for European travel to get more and more expensive, and I am afraid it will cost more and more. Watch this website, www.travelingprofessor.com and find out how to save money without sacrificing comfort and luxury. Also check out www.travelingprofessor.com about our small group tours to Paris, small group tours to Italy, and small group tours to Peru.