The truth is, there isn’t just one type of Parisian, nor is there one way to act when visiting the city.

But you know us — we couldn’t resist creating a jumbo list of our own. However, we’re listing only friendly do’s and don’ts that will help you make the most of your trip and your budget. Do… keep reading!

Related Paris reading:
• 10 costly mistakes that tourists make
• 10 Ways to prepare for your Paris vacation
• The best SIM Cards for a trip to France

Browse the cheese, but don’t forget to say hello, er “bonjour”, to the shopkeeper. Photo: LEAF Project

Basics

1. Do say “Bonjour” when engaging with another person. This includes all salespeople, servers, front desk, etc. Bonus points for adding a “Monsieur” or “Madame”.

2. Don’t worry about not speaking French beyond the basics. However, do learn a couple of words. Bonjour. Au revoir. Merci. Monsieur. Madame. Oui. Non. Voila — you’ve got it. (Want more? Here are 10 French phrases that can help you save money.)

3. Do seek out locals, or at least try to talk to them at a picnic or in a bar. But try to drop a couple of words in French. It’s a good conversation starter.

4. Don’t expect the French to be rude. They’re just humans. (And you’re far less likely to find yourself in a rude situation if you stick to rule #1 above.)

5. Do learn how to use an “inside voice”. Parisians, in general, are a lot quieter in public places than we’re used to being in the US. You will notice this tout de suite in the Metro, restaurants, in line at the bakery, etc.

Clothing and Packing

6. Do wear comfortable shoes (no stilettos) and clothes that can easily be layered. Pack a nice outfit for special occasions, but don’t go overboard here. You’re mostly going to be walking, and walking, and walking…

7. Don’t come unprepared for the weather. Research the weather before you go and pack accordingly, when possible. Pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.

8. Do wear a scarf in the winter and fall. It might seem like a cliché, but it’ll keep you warm and Parisians wear them all the time. Wrap yourself up — you’ll fit right in.

Eating and drinking

9. Don’t buy bottled water in a restaurant unless you like or need bubbly water. Otherwise, stick to a “carafe d’eau”. It’s delicious — and free.

10. Do spend at least an hour at a café terrace at some point during your trip sipping something. Bring the journal, notepad, book, or postcards, and have the whole experience.

11. Do refill your water bottle at any of the city’s outdoor water fountains. It’s the same delicious water Parisians drink daily. Eco-friendly! Free! Photo-op!

Go for a “tradition”! Baguettes at La Grande Epicerie in Le Bon Marché. Photo: kanuck

12. Don’t buy a baguette “ordinaire”. Stick to the “tradition”. Trust us on this one.

13. Don’t fuss over eating like you eat back home. This is not home, so breakfast options and coffee choices are not the same. (Sorry. But not really.)

14. Do eat things that you have never tasted before. This is Paris and we like to eat. (And we like to eat things that might seem rather unusual to you at first. Go for it!)

15. Do order a carafe of wine at lunch to share… or for yourself. Wine is cheap in France! And you’re on vacation, right?

16. Do eat as much as you can. Once you’re home, you won’t get any more baguettes. Well, maybe you can buy one from Whole Foods, but it won’t taste the same. Here’s how to eat like a local for under €20 a day.

17. Don’t go to McDonald’s. I mean, it’s fine for a bathroom break (and for emergency free Wi-Fi), but the experience isn’t really that different or more exciting than you’d have at the Golden Arches back home.

18. Do throw yourself a picnic if possible. Head to an outdoor market, get some cheese from a fromagerie, some fresh baguettes and head to the wine store. We’re so there.

19. Don’t write off ethnic food in Paris. A lot of it is really good and unique. Just don’t fiddle with the American stuff. But the falafel? Winner!

20. Don’t tip needlessly in restaurants. Please don’t. We’ve talked about this already.

21. Don’t eat anywhere within a beret’s toss of a major tourist destination, especially Sacre Coeur, Eiffel Tower, or Notre Dame. Push a bit farther afield and look for something more authentic without “tourist pricing”. Here are a few choices for dinner in Paris.

22. Do consider restaurants that aren’t listed on TripAdvisor. The site isn’t the final word on dining in Paris — and, actually, it can be quite an echo chamber, sending more and more tourists to the same restaurants, while smaller establishments remain ignored. Head off on your own… follow your nose and your own instincts.

Book accommodations in a central location like Hotel Marignan in the heart of the Latin Quarter. Photo: EuroCheapo

Hotels

23. Don’t pay for breakfast in a hotel or hostel if you don’t have to. It will probably cost you about €9-14 for something that you get (fresher!) at the corner bakery for about €3-4.

24. Do book a hotel that’s as central as possible to avoid wasting time in transit. You might have to pay a few more euros per night, but you’ll save a lot of time and money. EuroCheapo has hotels whether you’re a romantic or traveling with your family. Check out our full guide to cheap Paris hotels.

25. Don’t touch those items in the minibar. Head to the nearest supermarket to pick up water, drinks, snacks, champagne, fruit, etc.

Always keep an eye on your stuff in touristy areas like cafes and popular attractions. Photo: Danile Lobo

Money and Safety

26. Don’t carry your passport and all of your credit cards with you. Leave your passport and some of your plastic in a safe back in the hotel. (Also, do make a copy of the passport and keep it with your travel documents.)

27. Don’t fall for street scams (aggressive petitioners, “charity” collectors, bracelet/ring scam artists, three-card monte dealers, shell game hucksters, etc.). But don’t be freaked out by normal people. Simply avoid anyone who approaches you in an unusual manner. If it feels odd, keep on walking.

28. Don’t let your guard down. Petty crime exists here. Just because Paris can seem like a movie set doesn’t mean pickpockets don’t lurk in the shadows. When sitting at a cafe, keep your purse safe and valuables (including that smartphone!) off the table. Things can disappear from your table between sips…

Shopping

29. Don’t take pictures of people in shops. They tend not to like it that much. It’s going to get awkward.

30. Do go to Paris’s famous flea markets to find something totally unique to bring home. We promise you’ll find something more special than an Eiffel Tower snow globe. (Well, you might find a cool vintage Eiffel Tower snow globe.) Check out a few of our favorite flea markets.

31. Don’t be entirely cheap. Sometimes a few extra euros can go a long way. And if you want to embark on a shopping spree, here’s how to do it on a budget.

Yes, a river cruise along the Seine is touristy, but it’s also a lovely way to see Paris. Photo: Jean-Pierre

Sightseeing

32. Do visit all of the touristy sights that you’ve been eager to visit, even if there’s someone in your group moaning and groaning about it. Don’t leave with regrets about not having visited (fill-in-the-blank). You can even get started on your very first day in Paris.

33. However, don’t feel you have to go to Versailles, even though it’s famous and big and glorious. It won’t change your life unless you’re completely obsessed with Louis XIV.

34. Do buy a travel guide. Much of the information listed is evergreen and will be useful. Plus, it doesn’t run out of batteries and it’s a lot less costly to lose (or spill a glass of wine onto) than an iPad. Here are a few of our favorite Paris guidebooks.

35. Do read a few websites and travel blogs before visiting. (As you’re reading this post right now, you’ve already mastered this one. Well done!) Often websites have more offbeat and more recently updated information than guidebooks and magazines.

36. Don’t bring a selfie stick. No one will like you, and many museums look down on them. Take your photo the old fashioned way — ask that guy from Minnesota walking past you to take it.

37. Do take a boat ride along the Seine. It’s breezy and romantic — well, unless you get stuck with a group of 100 teenagers who are literally going bonkers.

38. Don’t come with a padlock and leave it locked to one of our monuments. Please just don’t.

39. Do take advantage of the city’s many free museums, festivals, and concerts. Paris is full of amazing free attractions, especially during the summer.

40. Don’t just see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre. Try to find something else that resonates with you — and that you don’t have to fight to get close to.

41. Do keep your expectations realistic and remain flexible, with a sense of humor, if possible. Paris is not perfect and sometimes things don’t go as planned. (The Eiffel Tower workers go on strike the day you visit? Take a photo — you’ve got a story!)

42. Don’t plan too many day trips from Paris. I’ve lived here for years and have yet to discover all of Paris. If you have a week, you might not want to spend five days day tripping…

43. Don’t walk around with your headphones on while visiting. Why should your ears miss out while your other senses get to enjoy Paris?

44. Do know the hours and opening times of major sights in advance. Go early or late to avoid the big crowds. And know if you can book major tickets in advance (you can at the Musée d’Orsay and Eiffel Tower, among others).

45. Don’t scorn other tourists – we’re all in this together.

Don’t be afraid to take the Metro and be assertive when boarding if needed. Photo: Chris Yunker

Transportation

46. Do use the Metro to get around town when you have more than 4-5 stations between you and a destination. Is it closer? You can easily walk that. Of course, you can also take a taxi, bus or Uber, too.

47. Don’t be shy in the Metro. Say “pardon” and shove gently when needed.

48. Don’t ride a Vélib public bike if you do not feel safe cycling in a city. It seems fun (and it is!), but it can also be dangerous, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Paris’s streets and traffic patterns.

49. Do some pre-trip research on how Paris works, even if it’s very basic. Know how to get to and from the airport, for example. And be prepared for your first day in Paris.

Wi-Fi

50. Don’t try to connect to free Wi-Fi every chance you get. Yes, it’s tempting, especially if you’re used to being constantly connected back home. But you’re on vacation — Instagram and Facebook when you get back to the hotel at night. You have the power to put away your phone! (Your traveling companions will thank you for this one.)

One last thought

Do resign yourself to the fact that you can’t see it all during your visit. You’ll just have to come back. Paris is a life-long love affair, and it only gets better with each visit.

Your tips

What do you do to make your Paris adventure even better? Tell us in the comments below.

The post Paris: 50 Do’s and Don’ts guaranteed to improve your trip appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Even with a stronger dollar, very few made-in-France goods are really “affordable” to begin with. Even Parisians pay an arm and a leg for some of these fashionable and sweet-smelling products so associated with the French capital.

So before you start compiling a list of all the très Français items you wish to stock up on, here’s a sanity check to keep your expectations — and your budget — in line. After all, it might just be cheaper to buy these at home!

1. Luxury bags and accessories

Whether it’s a Chanel clutch or a Louis Vuitton handbag, people come to Paris, the heart of it all, to stock up on these luxury goods. The problem? They’re not really much cheaper here than back at home. It’s just more fun to say, “I got this in Paris.”

Budget option: If you do stock up on some of these fancy items during your trip and you’re not a citizen of the European Union, don’t forget to get a tax refund. That alone can make these items much more affordable. However, note that you must spend a minimum amount during your trip.

2. Fashion

Same goes for the clothes. Yes, designers are a dime a dozen in Paris, but that doesn’t mean their goods are any less expensive. Things might actually be cheaper at home from a department store during a sale. Visit the Gaultier and Givenchy shops, but don’t expect to leave with any steals. Even during the twice-annual sales (“soldes”), their prices aren’t going to budge too much.

Budget options: Try a vintage shop, maybe, and even then you’re still not guaranteed a good price. Also, follow our cheapo-friendly fashion itinerary, buy your lingerie for less here, and if all else fails, pick up high-end designers for less at these big chains.

3. Perfume

The perfume capital of the world, tourists so often think that fragrances for men and women flow freely from Paris, but that’s not the case. Your best bet is to wait until you pass through the duty free shop at the airport (although, to be sure, it is much less elegant!). What you will find in Paris’s perfumeries are some more unique scents that aren’t available in department stores in the US. Very cool, but again, no deals to be had.

Budget option: You could just stop for free samples along the Champs-Elysées or visit the free Perfume Museum.

4. Champagne

Another luxury item, Champagne isn’t starkly cheaper in Paris than back home. Bottles still run €40, €50 and €60 depending on the brand – not much cheaper than what you can find in America. Granted, the selection is far greater, so it’s definitely a different experience.

Budget option: For a much more budget-friendly (and still exquisite) option, consider trying some of the French crémant, any bubbly white wine not issued from Champagne. Some of it is really, really good, and quite affordable. Read more wine-buying tips.

Prepare to shell out many euros for a classic French meal like this one at Chez Michel. Photo: Kent Wang

5. Quality French fare

This is France! French food should be cheap, right? Not always. If you are looking for a good, quality, authentic French meal, you might have to open your wallet a little wider. Classic bistros, formerly local places with homey, traditional cooking, are becoming rarer as they’re replaced with less authentic options that heat up pre-made meals. Meanwhile, most of the remaining old-fashioned gems have gotten expensive. (Of course if you’re happy for a bit of frozen duck heated in the microwave, you can still find that for cheap.)

Budget option: Try one of these prix-fixe deals from a classic bistro at lunch time or be prepared to splurge a bit for a nice dinner.

6. Flea market finds

Talking about shopping at the “puces” (flea markets) in Paris conjures up images of finding tiny treasures for mere euros. To be fair, there is a lot of cheap stuff at the flea market, but probably the stuff you’d actually want will take some serious digging. Furthermore, it can get quite pricey at the markets, especially since certain halls cater to high-end antiques and oddities that cost thousands of euros.

Budget option: You might want to check out the Marché Vernaison, which tends to have more affordable objects, before wandering too far into the rest of the market. Also, follow these tips for flea market success.

7. High kicking entertainment

The can-can! The cabaret! Paris is just lousy with dance halls dating back to the 19^th century where topless women dance and merriment abounds. Yes, that’s all true, but it’s not cheap.

Tourists looking to take in a show at the Moulin Rouge are often surprised by the €90+ price tag. While it’s not insanely expensive (have you seen Broadway ticket prices recently?), it’s just not what many travelers might be expecting. You’ve been warned. A night out can-can ruin your budget!

Your budget surprises?

Have you been surprised by any other prices while visiting Paris? Share with us in our comments section below!

The post Paris: 7 popular items that cost more than you think (and simple ways to save on them) appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

You’ll find a wide and colorful range of items on offer, from fashion, design and secondhand shops, as well as everyday necessities and luxuries, that you simply can’t buy anywhere else.

To get a feel for this up and coming district, we asked three Hamburg residents to share their tips for visiting this very cool neighborhood.

Annete Rufeger’s boutique offers locally designed fashions in a stylish setting.

Delicious lunch, coffee and shopping in the Schanze

Annette Rufeger has been selling clothing designs under her own label in the Schanze since 1997. A large portion of her fashions are made right in Hamburg in her studio; when she’s not there, you can talk to the designer herself at her retail location at Bartelstrasse 2.

Annette’s Secrets:

• Tasty lunch: Polokantine is my dear neighbor on Bartelstrasse, and serves up the tastiest lunch in the entire Schanze. Katja Ledebrink makes everything from the freshest ingredients: casseroles, a different pasta dish everyday and slow food with seasonal vegetables that please vegetarians and meat eaters alike. Her salads are unbelievably diverse and creatively assembled. Simply fantastic! (Bartelsstraße 26)

• Espresso bar: Juwelier is a comfortable specialty food shop and cafe. I especially love their espresso bar that serves homemade schnittchen (sandwiches), delicious coffee and homemade treats that can be taken away or even packaged as a gift. The restaurant, open evenings, is just as delicious—but due to its small size, reservations are recommended. (Weidenallee 27/29)

• Retro frames: Six Million Glasses is my hot tip for eyewear! This retro-styled shop invites you in to try on their stylish and well-made frames. It’s possible to lose track of time while testing various pairs of glasses from across the decades. The owners are brothers with a true passion for their business. I regularly borrow glasses for my fashion shoots from them! (Schulterblatt 3)

Anna Golightly is a must-visit shop along Marktstrasse.

Italian eats, organic coffee and unique gifts in Marktstrasse

Anna Jakob runs Anna Golightly, a design and accessories store featuring handmade and one-of-a-kind articles. Especially eye-catching are items such as pillows made from colorful textiles, including a number of vintage prints. Her shop just celebrated its eighth birthday at Marktstrasse 147 .

Anna’s Advice:

• Italian food: Guests at Cento Lire are warmly welcomed by their host Antonio. Delicious, fresh Italian food is served in a perfect Mediterranean ambiance, both indoors or out. Reservations are recommended on weekend nights and during convention weeks, and always plan to pay in cash! (Karolinenstrasse 12)

• Organic cafe: De zmarten Panter is a popular neighborhood cafe serving snacks, cakes, sandwiches and good coffee. Their entire menu is organic and their staff is especially friendly. All orders are placed at and retrieved from the counter—come early on sunny days to score a people-watching seat on the beloved wooden benches out front. (Marktstrasse 3)

• Unique gifts: Gisela Aguire’s Kunsthaltestelle offers a rich selection of gifts and items for daily use, from the artful to the kitschy, from jewelry to housewares and decorations. Her shop displays a large number of unique prints and the last Friday of every month hosts an exhibition opening for various local artists. (Marktstrasse 147)

Hallo Frau Nachbar is a monthly flea market with art, food, fashion and more.

Flea markets, cakes and fashionistas in Karo

Dannie Quilitzsch is a sustainability and communications consultant and an organizer of the monthly Hallo Frau Nachbar Market. Bringing together artists, producers and independent marketeers from the district, the market offers regional home- and handmade items as well as delicious gastronomical offerings from local culinary specialists. Neighbors enjoy gathering in the Schanze-Höfe the first Sunday of every month, with live music and special programming for children guaranteeing young and old alike forget themselves and simply soak up the atmosphere. (Lagerstrasse 30a)

Dannie’s Tips:

• Watch out for Sunday: The Karo district is an enduring Hamburg favorite of mine. There are so many little boutiques, cute cafes and comfy bars to fall into! However, be aware that on Sundays most shops are closed, so plan accordingly.

• Casual meals and cakes: Even when I’m just running a quick errand in the Marktstrasse, I cannot help but stop for some delicious cake at Gretchens Villa. At lunchtime, Gretchen serves a small selection of delicious, freshly-prepared meals, making this a great place to meet for a business or casual lunch. It’s not unusual to find me here on weekends, wiling the day away with my girlfriends over a fantastic breakfast. (Marktstrasse 142)

• Fashionistas: Immediately next door is a stop for every trend hunter: Anna Angelina Wolfers has her finger on the pulse of fashion, stocking GOLDIG with the hottest clothes and accessories of the moment. This sweet little store is full of finds—if not for you, then surely for your best friend—but beware that popular sizes sell out quickly, making this the kind of place you’ll want to pop into regularly to check out (and snap up!) the new selection. Every few weeks, Anna organizes a girls’ clothing flea market here, and the store’s annual parties are legendary. To see what’s happening during your visit, take a gander at GOLDIG’s Facebook page. (Marktstrasse 143)

The post Hamburg: Local tips for exploring the Schanze and Karo districts appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Yikers. The euro bucks disappear faster than you can say adéu in Barcelona. Here are a few tips to make your dinero go a bit further.

1. Eat the Menú del Día.

It’s a set lunch special Monday – Friday for around €10. Your Menú del Día will include, normally, a starter, main dish, a drink, bread and a dessert. This is a stellar deal. Note that this special is not often available on weekends. If a restaurant doesn’t offer a Menú del Día, go somewhere else.

Save some euros using these savvy tips!

2. Buy your own wine.

A glass of wine in a bar = €3.50. A bottle of wine from your local shop = €6. Glasses of wine per bottle = 5. ‘Nuff said.

3. Get the T10.

This is a metro card that lets you take 10 rides and costs just under €10. A single bus ticket is €2, so the savings are clear. If you have a few days in Barcelona, you’ll surely use up your T10.

FYI: The new Hola BCN! metro cards aren’t a very good bargain. You’re better off with the old T10.

4. Get a kitchen.

Stay in a hostal or hotel or apartment with a kitchen and save big bucks on food. Having a kitchen means you can eat breakfast and dinner in, and just have lunch out.

5. Check discount websites.

Websites such as Atrapalo.es (in Spanish) offer deep discounts on theater and concert tickets in Barcelona and Madrid.

The post 5 Easy Ways to Save Money in Barcelona appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

So here’s what to do to keep the coins in your pocket and the wine in your tummy.

Squat a Piazza

If you’re not picky on location but like to be around people, here’s what I suggest. Make your way to one of the piazzas, like Piazza Sant’Ambrogio and find yourself a seat on the steps of the church or any of the benches.

Next, resist the temptation to drink at one of the surrounding establishments. They will be overpriced and lousy. Instead, walk the neighboring streets until you find a little store (some call it a “kiosk”) that sells cheap beer and wine. There are lots of these in Florence and lots of people do it.

Purchase a beverage, return to the piazza, soak up the ambiance and toast the stars.

Fun bars for aperitivo

If you are not big fan of “piazza guzzle” here’s a few bars that are fun. First try “Volume” in Piazza Santo Spirito with its vintage/museum deco. Or the nearby La Cité (still my personal favorite) with its book-covered walls and small music stage.

Or maybe it’s food you want with your aperitivo, so try Kitsch Bar where you’ll have access to a full buffet of Italian specialties during aperitivo time.

If pubs are more your thing, try The Lion’s Fountain Pub, which is usually overflowing onto the square.

Bottoms Up

Have you heard of Vin Santo? If not you need to try it. Often made in Tuscany’s very own Chianti Region, Vin Santo is a strong sweet wine served either before or after dinner (or at any other time of the day that you see fit). You can pick it up anywhere that sells wine, but my suggestion would be one of the larger supermarkets where it is definitely cheaper (Coop, Esselunga, etc.).

And if you are completely new to the Italian drinking scene, consider trying an ice cold shot of Limoncello, a lemon liqueur from the south or a shot of Grappa, Italy’s answer to Tequila.

The post Florence: How to enjoy a cheapo aperitivo appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

There’s not much you can do, but there is some hope. Try these five tips to help ease the spending:

1. Your best food friend: Coop

The dominating Swiss supermarket chain is Coop (pronounced “cope”). Unlike many European grocery stores, Coop stores are quite large and offer lots of variety. It’s the perfect place to peruse an assortment of fine local chocolates (about two bucks a bar), not to mention the ideal spot to shop for meals to go.

2. Buy the ZurichCARD: Save on transportation, food, museums

I’m not usually one to recommend these touristy offers, but the ZurichCARD is your ticket to a cheap weekend in the city. Buy the 72-hour card for $40 or the 24-hour card for $20 and enjoy care-free, unlimited public transportation anywhere in and around Zurich. Not only that, but the card also gives discounts on nightlife admission, free drinks at restaurants and free entrance to all the museums in Zurich. As the Zurich tourism site says, “So much pleasure for so little money.”

3. Eating out? Shop around

I found meals purchased in department store cafes to be freshly prepared and reasonably priced. From coffees and cakes to salads and warm meals, it’s a Euro thing that’s quite enjoyable and tasty. Department store cafes usually have three to five stations offering the five food groups (complete with spice shakers and fresh herb offerings) at a lower price than nearby restaurants.

4. Continuing on to neighboring countries? Save up

Interestingly, Switzerland is surrounded by countries that offer dramatically cheaper prices for many of the things tourists are interested in. Germany, Austria and Italy carry similar mountain and seasonal souvenirs, while France offers even better food at a lower price (Paris excluded). Thus, while in Switzerland, be frugal with spending francs and wait to enjoy a satisfying splurge with a Swiss neighbor on shopping, dining and sightseeing.

5. Wander

Sure, it’s the oldest tip in the cheapo book, but strolling through this walkable city won’t cost a franc. Take in the amazing scenery. The mountains, lake, and old city quarters are best admired out in the fresh alpine air. Winters can bring crisp, clear and sunny days. Bundle up, slap on some shades and get out there! (Just watch for those patches of ice.)

The post Zurich: 5 Budget Tips for Saving Some Serious Francs appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Big wheels do keep on turning in Paris! Like skirts, cheese is seasonal, and in France the variety is never-ending. So this week I’m taking it to les rues, and asking my favorite local Big Cheeses for recommendations and helpful tips, too.

Here’s a shopping list to use as a starting point. For the love of la bonne vie, Cheapos, just smile and say “cheese!” (Not to get your goat, this go-’round we’re only milking the cows!)

Something old: Saint-Nectaire

Cat enjoying the cheese aisle

The Maréchal de Sennecterre introduced Saint-Nectaire (get it?), a superstar from near Clermont-Ferrand in Auvergne. Boasting an earthy aroma acquired while curing on straw for eight weeks, the thick, gooey Saint-Nectaire has long had its share of fans. Louis XIV gave this taste sensation his Good Palace-Keeping seal of approval!

My musician friend (and Charlotte Gainsbourg look-alike) Cat is mad about it. “It’s from where I grew up. The cheese is not industrial. Outside, the crust is grey, but inside it’s creamy, nutty, and fruity. Délicieusement fondant, baby! When I eat it I think of home and my parents.”

Keep your eyes peeled for its cousin Pavin, too, dressed in a bright orange rind. Named for Lac Pavin, its strong mushroom flavor will send your taste buds over the moon.

Something new: Saint-Félicien

Arriving on the French fromage scene around 1950, Saint-Félicien is similar to its older cousin Saint-Marcellin. “Saint Félicien’s taste is creamier and softer,” points out clothing designer Ghislaine. “Both are from the Rhône-Alpes, and very smelly! The smellier, the better, I think! Also, it comes in little crocks, which many people use afterwards to serve nuts and olives. You can always know when your friends like this cheese if you see them using those crocks!”

Ghislaine offers a shopping tip. “ The thing is to eat them at the right moment. If you eat them too early, they don’t have the authentic strong taste, but if you wait too long they taste like ammoniac. So ask for help. Let the fromager know exactly when you plan to eat it, and they’ll be able to figure out the ripeness with their fingertips.”

Laurent and Comté

Something borrowed: Soumaintrain

Film editor Laurent discovered Soumaintrain while completing a documentary about the late, great French New Wave filmmaker, Claude Chabrol. “The film story took place in an old house, where some friends of his came to visit him to enjoy a really good lunch, and he served them Soumaintrain.” After days spent editing this mouthwatering scene, Laurent had no choice but to set out on a quest to find it on his own.

“It’s from Bourgogne. It’s creamy and smelly. You can find its cousin Époisses at many cheese sellers, but only a few of them sell Soumaintrain. It’s very difficult to locate because the producers don’t always identify themselves. It’s almost like a secret society. Soumaintrain has a stronger taste and even more pungent smell than Époisses. You definitely have to drink a red wine and eat it with bread—a Burgundy, or a good Bourgueil from the Loire Valley.”

Something blue

How much are those cheeses in the window?

Film editor Yohan and media analyst Stéphanie are self-proclaimed “cheese snobs” and proud of it. “We like Comté, Vacherin Mont d’Or, and Morbier Fermier. They’re all from Yohan’s hometown, Besançon,” said Stéphanie. “We shop at Chez Virginie Fromagerie at 54 rue Damrémont in the 18th arrondissement. She’s a third-generation cheese monger. If you need help, just ask questions. They’re very friendly.”

Speaking of blue, Morbier Fermier is easily identifiable in display cases by the horizontal line of bluish ash cutting through it like a layer of icing in the middle of a cake. This dates back to when farmers would half-fill their cheese molds after the evening milking and then scatter a little ash on the curds to keep nighttime bugs away. In the morning they’d milk the cows again and top up the molds. Amaze your friends with this tall cow tale (but it’s true!).

My guilty pleasure: Cantal

Flummoxed by all these choices? Then I recommend starting off with a satisfyingly buttery number that’s everywhere in Paris but difficult to find outside of France: the “Cantal jeune.” Named for a region filled with volcanic peaks, even the Sun King was a fan!

Also worth a nibble are the rugged (and rarely exported) six-month-old Cantal vieux and its cousin, Salers. Take any one of the varieties and ménage à trois it with a baguette and a bottle of wine, and you’ve got the perfect Cheapo meal—morning, noon and night. Ooh, la la!

Cheapos, got your own favorite fromage? Do spill!

The post Paris: Locals Pick Their Favorite Cheeses appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

La Fabula
Calle Ruiz, 20

The outside looks like any taberna in the city, but inside the decor is a mix of cultures. Paintings by a Russian artist, hand-carved Mexican furniture, painted tables flown in from India, and the list goes on. Besides stopping in to see what this place looks like, you should also take a seat in the gorgeous dining area and order some Galician style pintxos (tapas). The dishes here start at €1.80. To wash the Boquerones en Vinagre down, try one of dozens of types of wines. There’s also a good beer selection and the bartender here makes excellent cocktails.

El Sur
Calle Torrecilla del Leal, 12

For Spanish film buffs out there, this tapas joint has got the goods. If you’re up on your movie trivia, you might try naming the director of each movie poster plastered to the wall. Walk to the back where there are wooden tables, large enough for groups, and browse through the savory menu. At El Sur you’ll find a mix of Raciones: spinach quiche with raisons (a larger plate at only €2.50), scrambled eggs with mushrooms, chorizo, and Jamón Serrano, the Tortilla Española, plus a a bunch of daily specials.

Bar Automåtico
Calle de Argumosa, 17

Posters and old framed photographs adorn the light blue walls of this popular bar-cum-restaurant. The vibe here is 50s chic mixed with a local Lavapiés-neighborhood flavor. During warmer months, Automåtico is the place for sipping Tinto de Verano and other refreshing concoctions outdoors. All year long, though, this place is chock-a-block full of patrons. Put simply, the tapas some of the best in the ‘hood. The Salmorejo is rich and fresh, croquetas pack a punch, and the prices are reasonable.

The post Three cheap and tasty tapas spots in Madrid appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Finding affordable Kaffee und Kuchen is… well, a piece of cake in Berlin. But if you’re looking for something extra special, here are a few suggestions:

1. Albrechts Pâtisserie
Rykestraße 39 (Prenzlauer Berg near Kollwitzplatz)
Tel: +49 (0)30 440 172 73
Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Monday to Friday)
Web site

As the name suggests, Albrechts Pâtisserie draws from the best of France and Germany. Combining “German traditions with French finesse,” Albrechts offers up to 20 different kinds of sumptuous cakes and pies on any given day.

The owner’s personal favorite? Stephanie Albrecht recommends the Schokodom, a tower of fluffy sponge cake and two kinds of mousse au chocolat, topped with more chocolate. In addition to the Prenzlauer Berg location, there are shops in Schöneberg and Charlottenburg (see the Web site for details).

2. Koriat
Pannierstraße 29 (Neukölln)
Tel: +49 (0)30 288 791 79
Hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Monday to Thursday), 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Friday to Sunday)
Web site

Israeli baker Aviv Koriat doesn’t bother delivering. Instead, folks from no less than 16 cafés personally pick up pastries from Mr. Koriat’s eponymous bakery in Neukölln.

The spartan shop has no seating inside, but it does offer a sidewalk bench. Try to look nonchalant as you balance your peach and pistachio cake on your lap while sipping espresso. You are on hipster-filled Pannierstraße, after all.

3. Der Kuchenladen
Kandtstr. 138  (Charlottenburg near Savignyplatz)
Tel: +49 (0)30 310 184 24
Hours: 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. (Tuesday to Friday), 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday)
Web site

If you want to feel special without spending a fortune, check out this little shop. Der Kuchenladen serves handmade delicacies to a select few customers—that is, those who battle it out with young families and gay couples to grab one of the four tables in this tiny, pink-walled café. You’ll find all the usual suspects of German bakeries here, but always with a twist.

4. Alles Gute…
Simon-Dach-Straße 3 (Friedrichshain)
Tel: + 49 017 814 432 45
Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Tuesday to Friday), 10 a.m. to 5 pm. (Saturday), 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Sunday)

Follow the smell of freshly baked brioche and you’ll find yourself at Alles Gute. Whether you like your latte with organic or soy milk, this café on fashionable Simon Dach Straße caters to your whimsy. Plus, you won’t find a cheaper slice of artisan cake in the neighborhood.

5. Opernpalais
Unter der Linden 5 (Mitte)
Tel: + 49 (0)30 202 68-3
Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m.
Web site

If you feel like splurging, you can mingle with the well-heeled dames at Opernpalais, which boasts “Berlin’s biggest selection” of over 65 cakes (including some for diabetics). The servers can be a tad impersonal, but you can’t beat the location on magnificent Unter der Linden.

The post Berlin: 5 great bakeries for coffee and cake appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Between 7 PM and 9 PM,  most bars in Italy offer a small buffet to their customers—upon purchase of a drink, naturally. In some places, the aperitivo has become an art form. By picking the right bar, you can enjoy a full, all-you-can-eat buffet for the price of your Campari Spritz. To get your fill in Florence, check out these places:

Kitsch
Via San Gallo or Piazza Beccaria

This bar is famous for its abundant spread, and there will be the crowds to prove it. Try to arrive around 7 or 7:30 PM to get a table, there are even a few outside if the weather is nice. Arriving later usually means waiting for a table and then having people successively waiting for you to leave.

For the price of €8, Kitsch offers you your choice of drink and a buffet of cured meats, cheeses, hot and cold rice and pasta dishes, grilled vegetables, and a few meat dishes. Don’t be afraid of the hard-boiled egg covered in a pink sauce. I can’t tell you what it is, but it’s delicious!

Moyo
Via de’ Benci, near Santa Croce
website

The dark mood lighting and “M”-shaped chairs may be a bit much in terms of décor, but don’t let that take away from the reasonably-priced drinks and well-balanced buffet. For about €7, you’ll find mini sandwiches, omelettes, rice and pasta salads, and a few hot dishes. The offerings are a bit lighter than what’s at Kitsch, but the bar is usually less packed and has a more sophisticated vibe.

Pop Café’
Piazza Santo Spirito
website

In terms of aperitivi, this may be a bit of an alternative spot, providing a good vegetarian buffet and some really good people watching. Drinks range from €4 for wine up to €6 for a cocktail. Included are various vegetarian foods,  such as couscous, rice salads, and potato dishes.

It’s better to sit outside, even if it’s crowded and you’re forced to the sidewalk of the piazza, because the Pop Café’s interior is small and narrow. But that’s exactly the point of Pop: to eat and drink cheaply and go outside and mingle. You’ll find a nice mix of Italians and foreigners, and as the night goes on the most “picturesque” people come out of the woodwork to provide some notable post-aperitivo entertainment.

So go ahead and try these aperitivi and more! Given the popularity and lure of the aperitivo, bars are constantly changing and offering more.  So don’t hesitate to experiment and sample to find the right aperitivo for you.

The post Florence Aperitivos: Free delicious food for the price of a drink appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.