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> The most sensible way to get around Europe is to use its incomparable railway system. The 15-hour high-speed train trip from Paris to Rome costs only $53, plus $7.82 for a couchette berth, plus $13 for cooked-aboard dinner. Every Western European country has offices in the U.S. where the tourist can buy lower-price tickets in advance. Example: for only $115, the American who plans to visit Germany can buy a rail pass good for 16 days of unlimited travel.
> European capitals have some of the world's most efficient subway systems. For about $10, the visitor to Paris can buy a carte orange, which allows unlimited travel on the Métro for 30 days.
> European stores still offer many bargains for the perspicacious visitor. In Italy, Fendi handbags and Nazareno Gabrielli shoes cost 25% less than they do in the U.S. Greece's hand-woven shoulder bags, called tagari, are priced at only $7.
With forethought and on-scene thrift, Europe can still be affordable and memorable. The small hotels and offbeat restaurants can be as pleasant as any in the world. But don't forget the aspirin.