Norway is one of the most expensive tourist destinations in the world – narrowly followed by Ireland – according to a survey by American Express.
According to The Independent newspaper, the financial giant commissioned a survey of a “shopping basket” of goods in 12 countries around the world, including such goods as drinks, meals, camera films and postcards.
Unsurprisingly, there was a vast difference in price between the countries – from £65 in Thailand to £154.60 in Norway.
The Independent reports that the most dramatic increase was in Ireland, which saw a 26 increase on last year and a total “bill” of £144. Of six eurozone nations surveyed, Italy came out cheapest, and was the only country to experience a fall in prices – of some nine per cent.
American Express reportedly drew attention to the vast differences among European countries.
Senior vice-president Brendan Walsh is quoted as saying: “As was the case last year, the 2005 cost of living survey demonstrates clearly that one currency does not mean one price. Overall, the cost in Italy was virtually half that in Ireland for the same 13 items.”
Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad Ltd www.newsfromabroad.com
