Archive for April, 2009

Bluestockings bookshop in NYC

New York Tip: Free bookstore walking tours

New York is a city filled with glitz, glamour, and lots of independent bookstores. Why not top off your trip here with a tour of one, two, or a bunch of the city’s most beloved book nooks? Here are a few ideas to get you started. May days Garth Hallberg, a writer at The Millions » Read more

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Posted in Free Stuff, New York, United States, walking
Europe by Boat: Budget cruises and ferries

Europe by Boat: Budget cruises and ferries

For chilling out in the middle of a long Europe trip, just take a boat. The Baltic, Black Sea, North Sea, and the Mediterranean are all criss-crossed by regular scheduled routes, with ships varying from chic cruise ferries to humble boats that carry tourists, locals, livestock and the mail. A day or two on board » Read more

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Posted in Belgium, Croatia, Europe, hidden europe, Iceland, tips, transportation, Trip Planning, United Kingdom
Wandering Cheapo: Reappraising Andorra La Vella

Wandering Cheapo: Reappraising Andorra La Vella

Andorra La Vella, the capital of Andorra, may be Western Europe’s most maligned capital. A huge duty-free shopping hub, it tends to be written off as an outdoor mall only good for short shopping adventures. Its commercial bluster may indeed shock those emerging from a weeklong mountain journey through the Pyrenees. And in fact, some » Read more

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Posted in France, Liechtenstein, Spain, Wandering Cheapos
Paris Packing Tip: Umbrellas for when it drizzles…

Paris Packing Tip: Umbrellas for when it drizzles…

Sometimes in Paris, a little rain must fall.  No matter when you’re visiting the City of Light—and light sprinkles, don’t forget to pack a parapluie. The weather here can change at the drop of a Schiaparelli hat. While showers don’t typically last long,  I recommend toting a compact “parapluie” (umbrella). Make it rain “Never carry » Read more

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Posted in Fashion, France, Paris, Shops
Rome free afternoon: Our four favorite parks in Rome

Rome free afternoon: Our four favorite parks in Rome

By Sav D’Souza in Rome— Rome, like most European destinations, has some delightful parks. Whether you plan to relax after a day on the town, or spend a free afternoon strolling through gardens, sitting and public—park, the Villa Doria Pamphilj. Named after two noble Italian families, this marvel sits West of the Tiber and just South » Read more

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Posted in Rome Sights

Barcelona: Four free art shows… and free champagne!

  Barcelona is a treasure trove of art and architecture—and free champagne.  No, seriously. Tag along on our gallery tour and you’ll experience some very cool art while clinking a glass or two of free Catalan cava or French champagne. Let’s go! Sala Parés Calle de Petritxol 5, 08002 The best time to check out » Read more

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Posted in Barcelona Sights

Mystery Photo Wednesday: Where is this band?

We love street performers just as much as the next Cheapo. Have any idea where this quintet is making noise? Clue: You might call them renaissance men. The first correct guess wins a free copy of the book, “Ask Arthur Frommer & Travel Better, Cheaper, Smarter.”  Leave your answer in the comment section below. We’ll » Read more

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Posted in Mystery Photo
Amsterdam: Free iPhone application for tourists

Amsterdam: Free iPhone application for tourists

Most people we know with iPhones like to brag about all the whiz-bang tools packed into their phone, as iPhone “applications” extend the possibilities of the device far beyond simply making a telephone call. The “Amsterdam Mobile Guide,” one of the latest tools in the box, is a free iPhone application that acts as a personal » Read more

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Posted in Amsterdam Practical Info
Paris Walking Tour: Bridging the Seine

Paris Walking Tour: Bridging the Seine

When the French “faire le pont,” they’re not talking about building bridges. Rather, they’re taking an extra day off work to make a long weekend when there’s a bank holiday midweek. Regardless, there’s quite a bit to be said for the real bridges (“ponts“) in Paris. Join us, as we stroll from the Ile St. » Read more

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Posted in City Guides, Destinations, France, Paris, walking
Prague: Czech beer and food festivals in May!

Prague: Czech beer and food festivals in May!

This year, the month of May provides several tasty reasons to celebrate in the fair city of Prague. The weather turns milder and the city puts its food and beer on display. Here are two festivals, for gourmands and imbibers alike, that we think are worth czech-ing out. Brew-ha-ha: Czech Beer Festival May 22-31, 2009 Oktoberfest may be a » Read more

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Posted in Czech Republic, Events, Festivals, Food, Local Customs, Prague