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Stockholm – A Great Destination That Is Kind To Your
Budget
by Marc A. De Jong
 Sweden is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Western
Europe. This statement would have raised some eyebrows a few years back,
but it has become reality. So why not go to Stockholm this year?
Leaders from both continents may have different opinions about world
politics, but US travellers love Europe, just like Europeans love to see
the US. Some American tour operators and travel agencies even expect to
sell more trips to Europe this year than ever before.
That is remarkable. The dollar-euro exchange rates make a European
vacation far from cheap nowadays.
If you want to see Europe without losing too much money, you should pick
destinations that have not switched to the euro.
Sweden is a great choice. Sweden is an EU country (no visa required for
Americans), but the Swedes still pay with crowns, not with euros.
To check if prices in the Nordic country are really that much lower, I
compared prices of three well-located three-star hotels in the Swedish
capital Stockholm with similar hotels in the popular capitals of two
euro-countries, Paris and Rome.
The difference was incredible. Rates in Stockholm started between 113
and 125 US dollar per night. In Rome you had to pay between USD 155 and
184 and in Paris between USD 167 and 222 USD.
And those are just hotel rates. Restaurant prices in Stockholm have gone
down in recent years as well, at least for foreigners.
I also went to a popular airline ticket seller and searched for the
lowest airfare. The cheapest ticket from New York to Stockholm cost USD
851, while the best tickets to Rome and Paris cost USD 897 each.
But hey, you’re not picking a travel destination because of money alone!
You want to see something too!
Well, don’t worry about that. Stockholm is often called the most
beautiful capital in the world, and rightly so.
The city is built on 14 islands and has another 24,000 just around the
corner. Wherever you go you will always get a glimpse of water. It’s a
very green city too. Stockholm is the only capital in the world with a
legally protected national park within the city borders.
And that’s not all. There’s a well-preserved old town centre with
medieval streets and alleys. The city has about 100 museums that are all
different and appealing to all ages – and many even have free admission.
The vibrant nightlife and modern shopping district keep you busy after
sightseeing, while the relaxed atmosphere and stunningly clean streets
only add to your holiday mood.
See you in Stockholm this year? You should be there already!
About the Author
Marc A. De Jong is journalist and editor of the
Stockholm Sweden
Travel Guide. This site tells you all about the major attractions,
events, how to get there, where to stay, and gives lots of other
practical tips. Including blog and RSS feed.
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