How do I save money traveling and staying in France in Oct. I want to stay in Paris and visit wine regions.?

Question

I need to know what options are available in saving as much money as possible on air fair and hotels, while still being able to enjoy France. I want to stay in Paris a few days and visit Burgundy, Normandy, Alsace, and Versaille. I want to go in Oct. and stay for about 2 weeks. How much do you think it would reasonably cost. I do not plan onn staying in top hotels. Also can I save by taking someone with me?

Answer 1

I think that your best bet would probably be to take the train - namely, the TGV. If you go on www.sncf.fr, you can book tickets in advance, and saves lots of money that way. I would also go for youth hostels.

Remember that a lot of French cities are built around a center, it's a little like the ripple effect on water, which means that you can do most cities easily without a car.

Burgundy - I would recommend stopping by Macon, it s major stop on the TGV from Paris; however, to visit the wine regions themselves, it's hard to go by without a car.

One of the things also is that locals are often very nice - don't hesitate to ask around.

You may, in bigger cities, try to negotiate the price of your hotel. Unless there is a big event going on at the time, they may have empty rooms, and you can try to negotiate a good hotel with unlimited continental breakfast for the price of a lower one. This way, you can eat a lot more in the morning, pack a coule of fruits, and save some on the other meals.

For meals, I'd go in local bakeries, and stuff like that. Dowtown in cities, there are "sandwicheries", which make sandwiches with local variations, all using baguette. Go to the "superette" or local supermarket for cheaper wines, and you'll find very good quality already.

Have a great time!

Answer 2

Hi

You can enjoy your travels without having to spend more than what you can afford. Besides, traveling doesn't have to be very expensive, especially if you are miles away from home.

Doing so can put a great impact on your finances and can drain your money even before you are scheduled to fly back home.

Here are some tips to keep you on track and enjoy your travel with more money in your pocket.

1. Try to make a budget first

Before you start your travel or after arriving at your destination, it is best to have a good budget with you. Try to set a budget for the week. In this way, you get to keep your expenses and finances tightly intact. For instance, if your budget for the week is only $100, try to stick to it.

Without a budget, you will be tempted to buy this and that.

2. Have a map

To save more money on your transportation expenses, always have a map with you. In this way, you can anticipate the best and the most economical way to your destination. You get to avoid taking cabs or special trips just to get to your destination.

3. Bring your own gadgets

To save more while traveling, it is best that you have brought every gadget or item that you will need. In this way, you can cut back on the cost of having to rent some of the gadgets that you might use.

For example, try to bring your own camera instead of getting your pictures taken by a local photographer. With a good camera, you can take pictures you want without having to worry about extra charges.

4. Do your homework

Before you head to your destination, it is best that you know something about the place. This will allow you to steer clear from unnecessary spending while on travel. Places may differ depending on the area’s pattern of living.

For example, if the place you are about to visit has a luxurious type of living, it is best to keep track of your expenses to save more money. Try not to spend on things that aren't necessary to avoid going overboard on your budget.

Things like these can be very helpful to save more money even if you travel to places were the standard of living is expensive. It only takes a smart traveler to do so.

Also try and get discounts on your travel and accommodation!

Hope that helps

Take care

Paul