artnbarb
1000+ Posts
The question mark in the title of this thread is the most important part because I really have no idea if we could even afford to do this. In 2018 I'd like to spend 3 months in England followed by 3 months in Italy, but there are so many things to consider, not the least of which is cost.
Altho the pound is at a record low, I worry that the dollar will decline over the next year, but even at its historic lows, the pound still costs more than the euro, and I think the cost of living might be higher as well. Obviously London costs more than a small village, but most of the small villages I know about are the cute, charming touristy villages, and I imagine most of them are quite pricey as well, especially in the Cotswolds and London suburbs.
So the real question is: Would we want to actually STAY (for 3 months) in a village we could also afford? While I'm certain we would take day trips, having a home base and spending a good deal of time there is important. Being in a town well-served by trains would probably be important, altho I know the trains in England aren't cheap. We would of course have a rental car, but I've got to confess: I will never, EVER feel comfortable driving on the left, and would be much more inclined to travel by train or bus if possible.
Again, this is just the way I begin every trip, or potential trip - just throwing out a zillion questions and refining my search as I go. I know this is a pretty general question, but perhaps some of you might have some suggestions for me. Thanks in advance.
Altho the pound is at a record low, I worry that the dollar will decline over the next year, but even at its historic lows, the pound still costs more than the euro, and I think the cost of living might be higher as well. Obviously London costs more than a small village, but most of the small villages I know about are the cute, charming touristy villages, and I imagine most of them are quite pricey as well, especially in the Cotswolds and London suburbs.
So the real question is: Would we want to actually STAY (for 3 months) in a village we could also afford? While I'm certain we would take day trips, having a home base and spending a good deal of time there is important. Being in a town well-served by trains would probably be important, altho I know the trains in England aren't cheap. We would of course have a rental car, but I've got to confess: I will never, EVER feel comfortable driving on the left, and would be much more inclined to travel by train or bus if possible.
Again, this is just the way I begin every trip, or potential trip - just throwing out a zillion questions and refining my search as I go. I know this is a pretty general question, but perhaps some of you might have some suggestions for me. Thanks in advance.