Most travel observers would make the assumption the stronger dollar will lead to a new wave of US visitors to Europe. But that would be mistaken.
"When the euro gets cheaper, it does tend to get more Americans to go," said Neil Martin, editor of Trans-Atlantic newsletter, which reports on US travel to Europe. But, he told USA Today, the euro will have to drop more for Europe to see hordes of U.S. visitors.
Many in the travel industry agree.
They cite various reasons, including higher trans-Atlantic airfares. US-European flights are up 11% over last summer, according to Kayak.com.
Marian Marbury, president of Adventures in Good Company, says interest in its Europe trips is down. "More than one person" backed away after seeing a $1,200-plus airfare," she said.
The dollar earlier this week was traded at $1.25 to a euro, which is the currency used by most of Europe.
US Commerce Department figures show a drop in Americans flying to Europe last year
By David Wilkening
