Guaranteed dollar rates offer savings on Europe vacations

You’ve heard how expensive Europe vacations are this year. High demand, a weak dollar, and steep fuel prices have created a perfect storm of pricey conditions. If you’re itching to go to Europe, though, a few travel providers have a solution: guaranteed dollar rates.

These offers enable you to book your trip with dollars, not euros. No conversions or inflations to contend with, so the price you see is the price you get.

Here’s a sampling of available offers:

• Gutsy Women Travel is offering guaranteed dollar rates on all 2008 tours. Options include Venice and Lake Como, Paris and the Loire Valley, and Budapest and Prague. Additional savings are available if you book by March 30.
• To save on luxury, consider the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Participating hotels typically offer guaranteed dollar rates.
• Book through any large travel provider within the U.S. The “Big Three—Expedia, Orbitz, and Travelocity— offer hotel and airfare listings in dollars. By purchasing through one of these providers, you may be able to save over booking with local currency. Smaller operators such as go-today.com, EuropeASAP, and Gate 1 Travel also offer similar benefits.

As always, though, don’t automatically assume a guaranteed dollar rate is a good deal. Compare the promotional price against accommodations, activities, etc., to ensure you’re getting the best value for your hard-earned vacation budget.

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Editor’s Note: SmarterTravel.com is a member of the TripAdvisor Media Network, an operating company of Expedia, Inc. Expedia, Inc. also owns Expedia.com.)