If you don’t mind sacrificing luxury, traveling on a budget is possible. Thanks to the rise of hostels and budget airlines, you can see all the sights on your bucket list without breaking the bank; it just might take a little more effort and a little less comfort (i.e., a crowded bus or a shared bedroom). Many European countries support this type of travel, and it’s one of the easiest places to find safe, clean budget housing and transportation.
Travel expert, TV host and author Rick Steves has quite literally made a career out of traveling Europe and sharing all his tips and tricks. Steves himself is content with modest accommodations and public transit, and he often says that traveling this way is how you get the most authentic European experience compared to hiding away in secluded 5-star resorts. But when you’ve traveled a long way to get there, of course, some things are worth dishing out a bit more cash for, and he’ll be the first to tell you that.
Related: The One Simple Rule Rick Steves Advises Everyone to Follow When They Travel
There’s One Thing Rick Steves Will Always Spend a Bit More Money on While Traveling Europe
In a video clip posted to TikTok of his “Rick Steves Experiencing Europe” television special, Steves revealed that for him, money spent on food is money well spent: “Remember in Europe, it’s really important to focus on good ingredients.” Many European countries, like Italy, France, Spain and Greece, are known for their high-quality ingredients and emphasis on local food. Seasonal menus are commonplace, featuring varying produce throughout the year based on what’s growing in the region. “Spring for quality ingredients,” he suggests.
@ricksteveseuropeWhen eating in Europe, spring for quality, local ingredients at the markets and dishes that feature in-season produce at restaurants. Eating local, fresh ingredients not only supports the local community, but ensures a memorable culinary experience. For more tips, watch the full one-hour "Rick Steves Experiencing Europe" special on public television stations across the US (check local listings for airtimes), streaming on PBS Passport, or on YouTube. #RickSteves #RickStevesEurope #RickTok #TravelTips #traveltip
♬ original sound - Rick Steves’ EuropeNow, this doesn’t mean eating at fancy restaurants every night. In fact, in his guidebooks, he purposely doesn’t list Michelin-star restaurants—he aims for more realistic restaurants that are worth the expense (and advance planning of securing a reservation). But his favorite way to eat while traveling is to take advantage of the local markets, buy a few ingredients and enjoy them as is. You can do this whether or not you have access to a full kitchen when traveling; buy fresh fruits or vegetables that don’t require cooking, and add in some fresh bread or and a protein source to make it a meal.
Related: The One Travel Essential Rick Steves Never Leaves the Hotel Without
You’ll find an array of cheeses and cured meats in many European countries, and this is where Steves’ advice really comes into play. Spend a few extra euros on the good cheese or special ham because you can’t find the same quality in America. In Spain, bread with a bit of tomato, garlic and ham is quite acceptable for a meal, and this can easily be made without an oven, stove or microwave. In Paris, it’s not a chore to fill yourself up with a baguette and some Brie, either.
So go to the bakery and spend the money on the freshest bread, ask for advice at the cheese shop and grab what’s recommended or go to the market and check out the seasonal produce instead of buying everything at Lidl (a popular chain grocery store). While it may cost more in the end, Steves says it best: “Life is too short to eat mediocre ham when you’re in Spain.”
Related: Prices of European Trips Are Up 38%—Here's the Cheapest Country You Can Visit
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