Ready to start sipping? Here is a guide to Irish beer and drinks. And remember: if you order at the bar, there’s no need to tip the bartender. Keep your change.

Guinness

Ireland’s most famous stout, Guinness Draught, is brewed right in the city center of Dublin. Often called the “milkshake of beers”, Guinness is known for its rich, creamy head and hint of chocolate flavor. Remember to be patient when ordering a pint — the perfect Guinness takes time to pour, but it’s worth the wait. Walk into any pub in Dublin, and you will see a lot of locals drinking the black stuff (and they always wait for it to settle before taking that heavenly first sip).

Smithwick’s is older — and lighter — than Guinness. Photo: ach10

Alternative Irish stouts: Beamish stout, Murphy’s Irish Stout

Smithwick’s

Smithwick’s Irish Ale is even older than Guinness and other one of the most famous Irish beer and drinks. This smooth ale dates back to the 14th century and is produced in the oldest operating brewery in Ireland. While many of the best known Irish beers are stouts, Smithwick’s is the biggest ale producer in the country. If you find Guinness a little heavy (especially after the first one or two), switch to Smithwick’s for something lighter, but still flavorful.

Harp Lager

On a sunny day in Dublin, grab an outdoor table at a pub and sip on a refreshing Harp lager. This crisp beer is a light alternative to heavy Irish stouts. This smooth, light beer doesn’t have the same history as Guinness or Smithwick’s — it’s only been around since 1960 — but it’s a tasty Irish alternative to other foreign lagers on tap.

Irish Coffee

If you happen to be in Dublin on a rainy day, there is nothing more satisfying than an Irish coffee. This mix of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and brown sugar topped with a thick layer of cream will warm you up on more than one level. Don’t over-stir the concoction; simply sip the coffee through the cream.

Irish Whiskey Punch (or a Hot Toddy)

Another traditional drink — often enjoyed when you have a case of the sniffles — is an Irish Whiskey Punch or Hot Toddy. Irish Whiskey is mixed with hot water, brown sugar, cloves, and lemon, resulting in one steaming, soothing drink.

When in Dublin, go local. Drink Irish beers and whiskey, eat Irish cheese, and don’t leave without sampling local smoked salmon and roasted lamb (preferably with a pint of Guinness on the side).

Your favorite pour? What do you order when you cozy up to the bar at a Dublin pub? Share your favorite Irish beer and drinks in our comments section.

Also in our guide: Heading to Dublin and looking for a great affordable hotel? Our editors have hunted down the best cheap hotels in Dublin, from hostels to three-star hotels, all centrally-located, clean and cheap. Read more in our Dublin hotel guide.

The post Dublin: A quick guide to Irish beer and drinks appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

If you’re traveling on a budget, there’s no time like the present to hop a flight to Dublin (with cheap airfare, of course!) and discover this fun city.

Once you’re on the ground and you’ve booked your Dublin hotel, use these five tips to keep your money where it belongs: in your pocket.

Dublin budget tips

1. Don’t waste money on transportation

It can be tempting in Dublin just to hop in a cab, but this is one way to empty your pockets very quickly. Instead of cabs, check out the local bus schedule. Dublin Bus is very affordable, and routes connect all different areas of the city.

Alternatively, Dublin’s bike share program, called Dublin Bikes, is a cheap and easy way to get around the city. And remember, Dublin is very small and manageable on foot, too.

2. Eat your dinner early

With Dublin’s current boom, there are more and more gourmet restaurants opening in the city. These same restaurants do have deals if you know where or when to look. One strategy to fill seats is offering heavily discounted “early bird” or pre-theater specials.

Take one of my favorite restaurants in Dublin for example — The Winding Stair. A meal here is usually a splurge, but early birds can enjoy an incredible 2-course meal for just €29. You will leave stuffed and your wallet won’t be nearly empty.

Related:  Five ways to save on dining in Dublin.

3. Make friends with the half-pint — And keep your change!

There’s no such thing as a discount on alcohol in Dublin — you won’t find any “happy hours” in the city. If you’re trying to keep your costs down on beer, order a half pint instead of a full pint. This way you can spread your money a bit farther between different pubs.

Also remember, if you order from a bartender, there is no need to tip. Keep all your change!

4. Seek out free entertainment

While you’re sipping on that half-pint, how about some entertainment? Many Dublin pubs are known for their live music, so check out pubs that provide some entertainment beyond the Guinness and Jameson.

For traditional music, check out O’Donoghue’s on Merrion Row. Another great option for live music is Doyles, right across the street for Trinity College. If you happen to be in Dublin on “match day” (whether it’s rugby, soccer, or the Gaelic games) be sure to grab a seat in the pub — both the game and the locals will provide the entertainment.

5. Research your ride to the airport

If there’s one thing visitors complain about when it comes to Dublin — it’s the lack of airport transportation. You won’t find a train or a subway system that connects Dublin Airport to the city center. Some visitors resign themselves to taking a taxi (this costs at least €20) but Cheapos will want to check out the buses.

There are two options: the local bus that is very cheap (but stops frequently, seriously lengthening your journey into Dublin) or taking the Aircoach, a 24-hour express bus service into the city. Purchase a return fare to save a few euros instead of paying for a ticket each way. (Read more on Dublin’s airport transportation.)

A little airport research ahead of time could mean a lot of money saved during a trip to Dublin.

Your Dublin tips

Do you have any favorite ways to save? Share in the comments below!

The post Dublin Budget Tips: 5 simple ways to save appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But the typical beer experience in France is a bit different from the one in North America or the UK, ranging from how pints are typically ordered and served to the types of popular beers on tap. Read on for the basics on what to expect when ordering a round in the City of Light

Related:

• 6 Tips for buying wine in France
• Buying a Sim Card in France
• 50 Ways to save on your trip to France

Tips for ordering French beer

1. Small or large?

In France, you don’t just get to choose the type of beer you want, but also the size of the glass. Your bartender will ask you if you want “un demi” (a half-pint that costs about €3 to 4), or “une pinte” (a pint that costs €6-8). The demi almost always costs half what the pint costs. If you’re not a big drinker, or simply want to pace yourself, the demi can make a good option, but the pint might save you a bit if you plan on drinking more than one demi.

2. Beer always comes with a glass

If you order a bottled beer, the bartender or server will always give you a glass to pour your drink into, whether you asked for one or not. This small cultural difference between France and the United States shocked an older French acquaintance of mine on a trip to Louisiana when, after ordering a bottled beer in New Orleans, the bartender just plonked down the bottle and left. “You always serve it with a glass,” he said to me, sighing, “because, it’s just, that’s just what you do.”

Bars always serve beer in a glass. Always. Photo: Matt Seppings

3. Cost depends on your seat

While the cost of beer in anglophone countries only depends on the beer type you’ve ordered, in France, the cost can also depend on where you decide to sit. If you choose a seat at the bar, your drink will cost about €1 cheaper than if you decide to sit at a table. And in some establishments, such as posh restaurants on the Champs-Elysées, your drinks will cost a few euros more if you sit outside. So when going for a drink, just keep in mind that if you find a great seat, you might be paying a bit extra for the privilege of being there.

Related: What you can expect to pay in Paris — and how to pay less!

4. Keep an eye out for happy hours

A welcome relief in one of the most expensive cities in the world, happy hours offer discounts on drinks in many bars and pubs around town. Establishments offering a happy hour usually advertise that fact on a chalkboard or easel just next to their entrances, making them easy to spot.

Related: 10 tips for saving on dining in Paris

Keep an eye out for happy hours like this one in the Latin Quarter in Paris. Photo: Elaine

5. Would you like syrup with that?

In France, sugary fruit syrups are not just for lattés. The French are known for mixing a variety of syrups with their beer. Popular offerings include peach, strawberry, lemon, ginger, black currant and mint. You can also order a beer with a shot of grenadine — just ask for “un tango“. It costs about €.20 to .50 extra to get a shot of syrup.

6. “Picon” mixes in citrus

Typical of the Paris region and in much of northern France, “picon” is an aperitif made from fresh oranges and distilled alcohol. It is also commonly mixed with beer. Ask for “une picon biére” at a bar and you’ll get a sweet drink with a hint of citrus. It will only cost you about €.50 to €1.50 extra.

7. “Panaché” mixes in lemonade

Called the “panaché“, this drink is half beer, half carbonated lemonade. A variation, called the “Biére Monaco“, is the same thing but with a shot of grenadine included. If you find yourself sitting on a terrace on a hot summer day, this mixture can be a really refreshing relief from the heat.

Pelforth is a classic brew from northern France. Photo: Clayton Parker

8. So, what’s on tap?

If you check the tap at just about any bar, café, bistro or restaurant in Paris, you’ll almost always find the following:

Kronenbourg 1664: A light, crisp lager produced in Alsace.

Grimbergen: From the Flanders region of Belgium, this brand makes a wide variety of popular ales and wheat beers.

Pelforth: A brewery which makes a famously light pale ale of the same name, produced in the northern French region of Nord de Pas Calais.

Other beers that make frequent appearances include the Belgian wheat beer brand Leffe, the Belgian pilsner Stella Artois, and Dutch lagers Heineken and Grolsch.

Related: Tasting the unique beer culture of Lille for less

9. Christmas beers

Some breweries whip up a batch of warming, hoppy specialty beers for Christmas, known as “les bieres de noel”. Brasserie Schutzenberger and Meteor, two brewers from Alsace, produce popular bieres de noel that can be found in bars and in supermarkets come December.

10. Traditional French beer from the Calais region

Known as “biere de garde“, these amber or gold-colored brews generally have a malty taste and have high alcohol content. Some well-known biere de garde brewers in France include Trois Monts, Jenlain and Brasserie Castelain. While not found quite as often on tap in Paris, they can be picked up at most supermarkets or in specialty beer or wine stores.

Bonus Cheapo Tip: If you want to do a beer tasting in your hotel room, however, this would be the cheapest way, with a 75 cl bottle of most domestic beers costing less than €3 at the supermarket.

Related: A guide to Paris supermarkets

Santé!

The post Paris: A guide to ordering beer in France appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

But all too often, France’s northern region, such as Hauts-de-France (that covers the Nord-Pas de Calais and Picardy regions), gets overlooked and underestimated.

The north is commonly pigeonholed into bloated typecasts  — “dismal weather”, “underwhelming landscapes”, “a presiding culture of country folk who speak a weird dialect” — but these sweeping generalizations do not truly depict what these regions has to offer.

Every country has its hidden gems, and in terms of France, I believe the North is one of them. If you are willing to go off the beaten track and experience a different kind of “authentic”, with half the amount of tourists — and for a fraction of the price — then look no further than Nord-Pas de Calais and Picardy!

More tips for France
• 50 Tips for saving on your trip to France
• How to find cheap hotels in France

North of France budget travel highlights

Here are 10 highlights, in no particular order, of the North of France for budget travelers.

The region of Nord-Pas de Calais

Over the past decade, this region has been completely revamped with a budding arts and culture scene, namely in Lille, Lens, and Arras.

1. Discover the “L’île de Lille” the capital of Nord-Pas de Calais

Lille epitomizes the words we all hesitate to use when describing a treasured place, but likely say countless of times when reminiscing about it… “cute”, “adorable”, and yes, even a little “kooky.” Known as Paris’s “spunky relative” to some, Lille is the heart of French Flanders, where palettes of rustic red and glistening gold accentuate the iconic works of Flemish architecture, and in other ways, the glowing hearts of the local Lillois.

Between its historic old-town, Vieux Lille, the unparalleled warmth of its citizens, and the myriad manifestations of outré ‘Ch’ti’ culture, the words: cute, adorable, and kooky seem suitable after all.

But let’s not forget a keyword: affordable. Yes, the truth is, Lille offers a plethora of thrills and cheap accommodations that will cost you much less than its Parisian counterpart.

More travel tips:

Search more than 700 hotels in Nord-Pas Calais

A Budget travel guide to Lille, France

A local bar in Lille piles up the shells from mussels outside their door. Photo: Damien P.

2. Experience Lille’s mountain of moules

While you’re weaving through the flea market, wafts of the traditional “Braderie” meal, les moules frites (mussels and french fries) will captivate your senses and only cost you a handful of euros.

Eventually, you’ll come across one of the Braderie’s quintessential traditions: restaurants competing against one another to see who can build the highest mountain of mussel shells. So don’t be surprised if every restaurant in the vicinity wants you to come and enjoy some moules!

3. Get your music fix for less

For all you indie music fans, add Lille to your list of incubators and underrated hot spots. Thanks to its ideal geographic location and budding student population, Lille and the region’s lesser-known purlieus — Arras and Tourcoing — offer a notable repertoire of concerts and festivals, at a much cheaper rate than London, Paris, or Brussels.

The A Gauche de la Lune collective conveniently lists (and sells tickets to) concerts in both Lille and Paris, which automatically emphasizes the price drop between the two. If you’re looking for a way to combine history and entertainment during the summertime, then whisk away in the majestic splendor of La Citadelle d’Arras, during the highly acclaimed Main Square Festival.

4. Discover France’s capital of beer

You wouldn’t believe the amount of beer that comes out of Northern France if we told you. So you should taste it for yourself!

Swap out overpriced and overcrowded wine tours in Bordeaux or the Loire Valley for an inexpensive beer excursion in the heart of French Flanders. Check out our guide to beer culture in Lille to ensure you’re hitting all the right spots.

Strolling through the Lille Christmas Market is always free! Photo: Niriel

5. Channel your inner Ch’ti at Lille’s Marché de Noël

Avoid the hullabaloo of Alsace during winter market season and revel in Lille’s snow globe charm at the annual Marché de Noël. Straddled across Rihour and La Grand Place – Lille’s former medieval market square – you’re bound to float back in time, all whilst sipping your large heaping of €3 vin chaud (mulled wine).

Admission is free, and it’s open this year through December 27th.

6. Tap into art history (for free!) with a modern twist

Swap out the lines and antiquity of the gargantuan Louvre in Paris and explore its hip new extension in Lens. Think of Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum; the Louvre-Lens might not have the same Renaissance effect for the old mining town, but Lens will surely leave you pleasantly surprised. Cheapos will love that museum admission is free!

7. Breathe in the coastal nature of the North

Its terrain might be relatively flat and the English Channel doesn’t quite compare to the Mediterranean or the Alps, however, the North of France does possess a lovely hiking trail.

The GR 120 embodies a different kind of magnificence. It reveals a modest beauty that underlines the perils of its past. As you walk along the coast, amidst the billowing dunes and windswept valleys, where tall grasses harmonize with the sea, a mystic tranquility overcomes you.

This “Grande Randonnée” (Great Walk) is bound to instill a newfound admiration into all of those whom dare to roam the outskirts of the unpretentious North.

Sitting high above the city, Laon Cathedral dates back to the 12th century! Photo: Frans

Picardy region

This region of France, located just north of Paris, houses some of the most prolific Gothic architecture of the 12th and 13th centuries. Picardy also exudes a medieval mysticism and neo-classical charm that gives visitors a true taste of France’s evolution.

The Paris-Beauvais Airport, where Ryanair and other budget airlines fly in and out of, is also situated in this region, making it a very feasible pit stop before moving on to your next destination.

Related: Discover more than 500 hotels in Picardy

8. Medieval mysticism in Laon

Enjoy the medieval aura of Laon, whose high vantage point magnifies the bucolic pastures below, and whose collection of historic buildings fill visitors with an eerie charm.

Similar to Lens, Laon has its own Parisian counterpart: Cathedral Notre-Dame de Laon (free, open daily 8:30 am to 6: 30 pm), which impressively stands as one of the earliest Gothic cathedrals in France. Visitors can explore the town’s old ramparts and gateways and the medieval palace without the phalanx of tourists.

Related: Find budget hotels in Laon, France

Soak in the quaint charm of the scenic Le quartier Saint Leu in Amiens. Guillaume

9. Amiens: Where an old city reflects small-town charm

Just a hop, skip away from Paris, Amiens reigns as the capital of Picardy and may just be one of the best bargains of your off-kilter tour of the North. Outside of housing the oldest and tallest Gothic-style cathedral in France, it exudes an abundance of historical and cultural charm.

In the Saint-Leu Quarter, frolic along the canals and enjoy the quaintness typical in a small French village. Relish the “floating gardens” of the magnificent park, the Hortillonnages, as you nibble on a macaron d’Amien or another local delight. Marvel at the works of the famous author, Jules Verne, at his old home-turned-museum (€3 entry fee).

Related: Search and book cheap hotels in Amiens

10. Meander through the fairytale village of Gerberoy

No visit to France would be complete without meandering through one of their numerous postcard villages. Gerberoy, which has officially made it on the list of “most picturesque villages in France,” located northeast of Amiens, illustrates the soft and whimsical hues of impressionistic paintings.

One may think it was the village — dotted with 17th and 18th-century cottages — that sprouted from the ground, rather than the multitude of gardens and flowers dressing the buildings and walkways. Bask in the gentle beauty of this fairy-tale village… and in the inexpensive prices!

Your tips for the North of France

Have you been to the North of France? Tell us your favorite places to go!

The post 10 Reasons to Visit the North of France for Budget Travelers appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

This may not be a surprise knowing that Lille brushes shoulders with Belgium, one of the beer meccas of the world, however, northern France has a long-running history with beer that few seem to know of. For example, before the war and post-war ruin of WWI, thousands of small-scale (now known as “micro”) breweries existed, which was one of this region’s main industries.

Nowadays, fewer breweries exist, but that’s not to say they’ve all disappeared. In fact, Lille and its surrounding region are home to more than 20 breweries. Read on to learn the best ways to sip the famous beers in Lille.

Related:
• A guide to ordering beer in France
• A Budget travel guide to Lille, France

A guide to beer in Lille: Breweries, brewpubs & bars

There are several breweries in the greater Lille region (see the tours section for more information), but if you’re limited to the Lille metropolis, don’t worry – there are still plenty of options for you to complete your epicurean beer expedition. We would highly suggest checking out these pubs and bars below that offer some of the region’s finest and most palatable brews.

A note on beer prices in Lille

Considering most Flemish brews have a higher percentage of alcohol content, your money tends to go a little further, even if it’s costing you €6-7 euros a pint. While several styles of beer exist in this region, ambers, doubles, and triples, dominate the shelves and drafts, with an alcohol content of at least 6%, but more commonly around 7-9%. These beers are known to be strong, so remember that one beer is more like two! And if you’re the type who likes to try a few different kinds, many bars offer a tasting flight at a reasonable rate.

But don’t worry, you can still get a great pint of beer for €5 and “une demie” (French for half-pint) for €2.50-4. Or you can go the “super cheapo” route with a DIY picnic. Most grocery stores have a pretty reputable selection of regional brews for much more reasonable prices than a bar or beer store — giving you the biggest bang for your buck.  Carrefour or Monoprix are good options and usually stay open longer than other grocery stores.

Le Lobby

10 rue de Royale, Vieux Lille

This beer bar is situated on one of Vieux Lille’s best streets for enjoying a good Northern beer. Serving more than 10 beers on tap, you really can’t go wrong here. It’s always teeming with people (mostly young adults), as there’s plenty of space, and almost always playing a good mix of old classics and indie music, making it an admirable place to rendezvous with friends. FYI: most pints here will cost you €6, which is very reasonable for this area!

La Capsule

25 rue des Trois Molettes, Vieux Lille

Think of La Capsule as the grandfather of Le Lobby — but with 28 beers on tap! They take beer seriously here, and if you’re not a suds expert, their highly-informed staff of beer specialists will be happy to help you with a smile on their face. Although the ground floor is quite small and cozy, they do have an underground space that they open up when the place becomes too packed.

Les 3 Brasseurs

22 place de la Gare, Lille

This is a classic Lille institution of beer situated just across from Lille Flandres, the main train station. It’s a great place to kill time during your stopover and get an authentic taste of the Ch’ti culture. 

La Rumeur

59 rue de Valenciennes, Moulins

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop, this may be the place. It’s not only a brasserie and bar, but also a coffee shop, restaurant, concert venue, and art gallery. And the best part? It’s super affordable, with low beer prices (including their own brews) and tasty food options ranging, from €6-9 per plate or a pre-fixed menu for only €12.

L’Abbaye des Saveurs

13 rue des Vieux Murs, Vieux Lille

This is arguably one of the best craft beer shops in France! And they don’t only sell one of the widest selections of regional and international craft beer, but also several specialties of the Nord region, making this a perfect stop for some authentic souvenirs and beers to go.

Beer tours in Lille

For beer through the eyes of a local, you can take the Treasure Hunt and Beer Tasting Tour, giving visitors a unique opportunity to both explore Lille and discover its rich beer culture and history. The tour lasts three hours and includes four blind tastings for a total of $30. It’s a little on the steep side, but for beer aficionados, it could be worth the money.

If you have a rental car and feel like doing a little beer tour, this beer mapping project will be your perfect guide – showing you the location of numerous breweries, beer shops, brewpubs, beer bars, and even homebrews!

Do you have a favorite brewpub or brewery in France? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Lille, France: How to enjoy the city’s famous beer culture for less appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Airport bars and lounges are nothing new, of course. But Munich’s airport offers a uniquely Bavarian twist to “grabbing a beer between flights”: Don’t just head to a bar. Head to the airport’s biergarten.

At this convivial outdoor space, you can sample the airport’s own home-brew, crafted in strict compliance with the Purity Decree of 1516 (which, side note: turns 500 years old next year!). This isn’t just any old beer, but one brewed with Hofbräuhaus yeast and hops from the Hallertau region. We’ll take two.

Cheapo note: A half-liter of the biergarten’s brew will only set you back €2.75, notably cheaper than at bars inside the airport (not to mention in the city center).

In addition, their kitchen dishes up plates of Bavarian specialties that will practically ensure that you’ll fall asleep on your next flight. Throw in the possibility of cabaret-style performances, and we’re suddenly excited about a layover.

But is it practical?

But wait, we hear the Nervous Nellies (understandably) protest: Is grabbing an air-brew and sausage platter really a practical option between flights? What about security? Getting to your gate on time? Getting tipsy, passing out and waking up in Nuremberg?

Fortunately, it’s logistically pretty simple. The beer garden is located in the airport’s “forum”, the outdoor public space between the airport’s two terminals. As the airport is already comparatively small, reaching the beer hall isn’t more than a few minute’s walk from most gates.

Given the airport’s size, security is also a relatively quick and breezy experience. Airport insiders tell us you should give yourself about 20 minutes to reach your gate from the beer garden in normal flying conditions.

As for getting tipsy and waking up in Nuremberg, well, here you might want to exercise a bit of prudence. After a couple of steins of airbräu, you might want to give yourself a few extra minutes to navigate to the right gate.

More in Munich

Heading to Munich soon and looking for affordable sleeping options? Check out our list of recommended budget hotels in Munich’s city center, all inspected and reviewed by our editors.

Looking for more ways to save in Munich? Read more tips in our Munich blog.

The post Layover in Munich? Hit the airport’s beer garden! appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

As a global city with a long tradition of liberal policies, the Dutch capital is no exception. Travelers arrive in this open city armed with a host of stereotypes that don’t always ring true. We’ll now try to shed some light on those popular (and often funny) misconceptions.

1. Everyone in Amsterdam is high

It’s true we have hundreds of marijuana coffeeshops, it’s legal to grow plants at home, there’s an annual Cannabis Cup and, don’t forget, the city has a marijuana museum. There’s even a Cannabis College where you can enroll in classes about weed…

Just kidding about the classes, but visit the Cannabis College because it’s a free information center all about the soft drug industry in The Netherlands. Videos, books and documents report on everything you want to know about cannabis culture worldwide.

One fact you’ll find is that less than 10% of the Dutch smoke weed, and the coffeeshop culture in Amsterdam runs strong on the tourism industry. Dabble in the green goods all you want, no one here is judging (nor are we completely innocent). But don’t forget that most of the locals find other ways to relax in our spare time.

Related: What’s the difference between a coffeeshop and cafe?

The Red Light District is looking a lot spiffier than it used to. Photo: Audrey Sykes

2. The Red Light District is dirty

In the 1970s and 1980s the Red Light District was not a safe place to be. There were junkies taking up street corners selling hard drugs. The Hells Angels ran brothels and windows like pimps. And the safety level of the neighborhood more closely resembled anarchy than protection.

But things have cleaned up in the past 30 to 40 years, big time. The government has pushed the junkies and hard drugs out of the district. The number of prostitute windows has dropped, pimping is illegal, police are around and security cameras are everywhere. While unethical situations still breed in these conditions, the Red Light District is safe to visit.

Tip: Don’t take pictures of the prostitutes, don’t pick fights with hooligans, and don’t buy anything from random strangers—not even a bicycle. (Here are some more scams to avoid.)

Related: Affordable hotels in the Red Light District

Sure, Heineken is popular in Amsterdam, but it’s not the only beer in town. Photo: facemepls

3. Heineken is the best (and only) beer in town

I’ll admit that the green bottles and smiling “e” letters reign over Amsterdam like Budweiser in the US. And their marketing is impeccably creative and cool.

On the flip side, there are plenty of domestic and craft beers in the Netherlands to indulge in. You can easily find classic pilsners like Grolsch, Brand, Hertog Jan, Lindeboom and Amstel beers on tap in many bars around the city.

I’m personally a sucker for the Netherlands microbrewery culture. In Amsterdam, Brouwerij ‘t Ij and De Prael are staples in craft beer. (Here are some of my other favorite beer bars in Amsterdam).

Haarlem has the Jopenkerk, a craft brewery in a church. Some brewers have taken their knowledge of USA craft “beerology” and applied it to their home turf, like Ramses and Emelisse. Check out the Netherlands Beer Week website (in Dutch) for a list of every brewery in the country. You’ll quickly see that Heineken has some healthy competition.

Sorry to disappoint, but this is not a typical Dutch outfit. Photo: Michael Coghlan

4. Everyone wears wooden clogs

The story of the wooden clogs comes from the farmland. Dutch farmers wore wooden clogs for orthopedic purposes, and I don’t mean for foot comfort. The curved clogs aimed to keep their feet in good shape when walking on marshy land. In fact many cheese farms that open their door for visitors have a clog-making room. Cheese farm tours usually include a live clog-carving demonstration, with wood chips flying in the air and rows of painted podiatry product to purchase.

While farmers still rock the clogs now and then, the only wooden shoes you’ll find in Amsterdam are the giant ones you can sit in for a photo op at Dam square. There are cheesy souvenir shops that sell clog-shaped slippers, which can make kitschy, fun white elephant gifts for home.

Otherwise that’s it, and we don’t have a secret pair hiding in the closet.

5. Manneken Pis is here

It’s in Brussels. Yes, I’m sure.

Tall people on tall ships in Amsterdam. Photo: Bert Kaufmann

6. The Dutch are the tallest people in the world

Actually, that stereotype is true.

The post Everyone is high in Amsterdam – and 5 other myths about the city debunked appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Keep an eye out for Almogaver, a popular craft brewery based in Catalan. Photo:Manel Zaera

Craft beer movement in Barcelona

Beer and ale are a big deal in Barcelona, and all over Spain, these days. Microbrews are trendy, innovative and in-demand. Most people don’t think ‘beer’ when they think ‘Spain’, and the craft beer scene is still small compared to Belgium, Germany or sudsy cities such as Portland or Denver in the US. Nonetheless, brewers are busy in Catalonia creating some great beers, so keep an eye out for Almogaver, Les Clandestines and Llupols i Llevats.

Sipping craft beer in Barcelona, Spain. Photo: Regina W Bryan

Barcelona Beer Festival

Many of these tasty craft beers will be available at the Barcelona Beer Festival taking place April 11-13. The event showcases several up-and-coming Spanish brands but also a few international labels. The festival works like most foodie fests: you buy a half-pint glass for tasting, a wad of tickets and off you go to sip and tip as many beers as you can muster. The same tickets also work for food. This year the festival will be held right at the end of La Rambla in the Maritime Museum, a more ideal venue than last year’s which was in the conference center of a mall. It’s open to the public and popular with locals—expect a long line to get in at night!

Hostal Benidorm is a stylish cheap sleep along La Rambla. Photo: EuroCheapo

Where to Stay

Hostal Benidorm (with doubles from: $83 to $104) is within walking (or maybe stumbling) distance from the brewski bash as well as several great nightlife and dining spots. It’s hard to beat this central location. The interior offers a funky, modernist style, and each accommodation comes with a private bathroom, flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi. A few select rooms even sport balconies that offer views of the bustling scene along Las Ramblas.

Ale&Hop has a modern tap system with several local beers available. Photo: ScottRobertson2009

Where to find local brews

If you’re not able to make it to the Barcelona Beer Festival, but still want to try some locally-made ales, pop into Ale&Hop, a pub in La Ribera ‘hood that is a self-proclaimed beer geek hangout with 10 taps and vegetarian snacks. Cervecería Jazz in Poble Sec is another option with a robust list that pairs with burgers hot off the grill. Or how about a beer library? That’s what you will discover at La Cerveteca that stocks a wonderful selection of Catalan bottles. It’s the perfect spot to browse and taste to see what suits your fancy. You’ll also find bottled craft beer in many wine shops (bizarre as that sounds), a few in supermarkets and at any decent restaurant (okay, maybe not…but eateries are starting to carry microbrews, so keep a sharp eye out for them). Salud!

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No matter which tent you end up in, beer will be €10 a pop and people are bouncing off the walls in dirndls and lederhosen. But to get a grasp of what’s happening in other tents, here’s a rough guide.

Caravans from Italy

The second weekend of Oktoberfest is “Italian weekend.” Camping spaces around the festival are reserved for caravans from Italy, and there’s a notable presence in Munich of accents and sweaters that read “Italia!” These Italian stallions are found in large groups at the beer gardens outside — they arrived too late in the day to actually get in any tent.

Lowenbräu and Hofbräu: The “tourist” tents

Maybe it’s the 15-foot tall lion statue above the entrance that makes things look exciting. Still, Italian tourists, along with Australian and Asian visitors, are known to “park it” at the Louwenbräu tent. The line is always the longest, the tent look is very traditional, and the indoor and outdoor seating hit the 8,000 mark.

The Hofbräu tent seems to be reserved especially for the North American backpacker traveling Europe via Eurail, and the Aussies on Busabout party coaches who like to rockstar their way through Europa. They’re psyched out of their mind that the legendary bierhalle (and legendary tourist trap) Hofbräuhaus has – for a limited time – a flippin beer tent!

Bräurosol and Hacker: The “local rager” tents

The “Hacker” tent (aka “Bavarian Heaven”) and the “Pschorr Bräurosol” are the real party tents for Bavarians ages 18 to 35 (the 16-year-olds are at the Paulaner tent, along with more Austrailians). Both are massive and have lots of side entrances to help you sneak in when main doors are busy (but make sure your group’s woman-man ratio is at least 2:1). Tables are also great for the bigger group.

These tents’ bands are known to mix things up after 5 pm with more rock and pop hits, but don’t expect anything beyond Bon Jovi, White Stripes and the guy who reminds me my life was fine before knowing of his existence… what’s his name… Robbie Williams.

Trend of 2013: The smoking ban inside the beer tents has caused some creative initiatives. Besides sneaky, under-the-table puffs when servers aren’t looking, both men and women in the Bräurosol are smoking out the wooden corridor just before the men’s toilet. Intimate talking corner? Maybe. Ashtray that looks like a sauna hall? Heck Yes. Gross.

Fisher Vroni and Ochsenbraterei: The “foodies” tent

Worthy of a mention are the beer tents that offer more than your run-of-the-mill Oktoberfest food.

Above the Ochsenbraterei entrance sits large motorized figurines roasting a giant ox on a spit – a fair warning for vegetarians, and a mouth-watering invitation for carnivores. Inside the tent, a mechanical ox rotisserie roasts more than 100 bovine during the festival for dishes that go from €15 to €30 per plate. Not the cheapest pick, but as far as rotisserie pros go, 100 years of practice puts Ochsenbraterei at a master level.

Fish-on-a-stick might be a sore second after something as savory as 100 rotisserie oxen, but think of a 50-foot row of fresh mackerel, salmon, trout and more grilled over hot coals to Bavarian perfection. It looks impressive after drinking one beer, and after your second beer it’s to die for.

Hippodrome: The “celebrity” tent

The bourgeoisie of Munich are the “Shickeria” – amazingly tanned, platinum blonde, pearly white smiling (always smiling), and apparently hanging out at Oktoberfest for people to see them drink themselves silly. Yes, Hippodrome is the “see and be seen” tent, which is an obvious reason why they’re the first tent in line at Oktoberfest.

I don’t know if most people who go to Hippodrome are already famous, want to be famous, famously blow more than your average Bavarian spender (an already wealthy bunch), or have a thing for drinking beer on white tablecloths – but I’m guessing it’s a combination of all of these. It can’t be because they like breweries, Hippodrome serves other brewer’s beers… and champagne!

The plus is that the Hippodrome tent – besides looking like a glam “Moulon Rouge” gone Bavaria – has the latest closing time. While other tents end at 11 pm, the upperclass of who-the-heck-knows-your-famous-outside-Bavaria-anyways get to rage it until 1 am. And for singles, it’s a jackpot.

Augustiner: The “family friendly” tent

As cultural and cozy the mood at Oktoberfest is, things easily get loud, messy large men hit the ground – it’s just no place for kids. Good news is the Augustiner tent is known to be great for families, which is vital information for anyone planning to hit Oktoberfest with the little ones.

Tuesdays are “kids day,” which means kids drink for free! Just joking. It means the food and drink menu is marked at a discount for adults and kids with a talking tummy.

The post Report from Oktoberfest: A guide to the tents, tastes, and trends appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Even if you’re a loyal Oktoberfest patron, here are five reasons to consider heading to Holland for an “off the beaten beer path” experience:

1. There’s more (room for) variety.

Face it, a day at Oktoberfest does not mean “tent hopping” from one brewery to the next. It means finding one spot and staying put, which also means drinking the same beer, liter after liter.

That can be a great thing at Oktoberfest, but beer lovers after a mixed mug will appreciate the market style setup at the Bokbier Festival in Amsterdam. The open layout is lined corner to corner with almost 100 small bok beer stands to sample from.

Visitors have surprisingly ample elbowroom to float around from tap to tap. The beers are brought from small and large breweries across the Netherlands, with a considerable cluster from Belgium and a handful of German bok beer classics.

2. It’s (almost) self serve.

Like most beer festivals in the US, the Bokbier Festival has a “bar service style” where patrons approach different stands to be served. There’s no waiting for traditionally dressed barmaids (which can be a disappointment for some); simply find your next appealing bok tap and show your glass to the brewer behind the bar for a refill.

3. BYO grub.

Food here is not amazing, but guests are free to bring in food from outside. Anything goes, from take out boxes to grocery bags full of snacks. Even high tables are available for a sizable spread. Some common Dutch beer snacks include cubes of fresh Gouda cheese with mustard, small smoked sausages, and spicy borrelnootjes peanuts with a thin cracker shell.

4. It’s cheaper than Oktoberfest, sort of.

Oktoberfest beers are hitting the €10 mark per stein. While the number of beers consumed varies from person to person, calculate in the food, candy and carnival rides: It’s easy to drop €50 on a day at Oktoberfest without even trying.

Amsterdam’s Bokbier Festival charges between €10 and €15 for a one-time entry fee that’s good for the three-day period. This includes a sampler glass, which you can take home, and counts as your re-entry ticket.

Sampling the beer is on a token-based pay structure. One token is usually €2, and a six-ounce sample costs one token. One Oktoberfest liter stein equals to about five of these samples, so the price of beer is about the same. The savings is more apparent when you consider all the little extras (or lack thereof). At the Bokbier Festival it’s strictly about the beer.

5. It’s way, way smaller, but still traditional.

Although Amsterdam’s Bokbier Festival is the largest of its kind in the world, it pulls in about 10,000 visitors for its weekend soiree at the downtown venue. In contrast, Oktoberfest welcomes over 4 million in a span of two weeks (with over a dozen tents holding thousands of seats).

Still, the Bokbier Festival has its traditional Dutch drinking music, old beer chants, and farmers dressed in overalls instead of lederhosen. You’ll catch locals wearing authentic wooden clogs, and some women wearing dirndl-like dresses. And above all, the friendly spirit of beer enthusiasm flows freely throughout the weekend, just like a good beer fest should.

More information: Read more about the festival on the Amsterdam tourism website. If you’re heading over, be sure to also check out our Amsterdam guide for recommended cheap hotels and budget tips.

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