Hostels and dorms are particularly advantageous to single travelers who don't have a companion to split the cost of a hotel room. Most youth hostels are now open to people of all ages. You can find some pensions and hostels listed in budget guidebooks. The easiest source is often through the tourist information booth found at nearly every train station in Europe. Family rooms are not that much more, per person.
Money matters Use ATMs for currency, because the exchange rate is better.
Before leaving home, check with your bank as to the availability of the machines and if your PIN number will work. Traveler's checks are widely accepted in Europe, and they're easy to cash. It's also a safe way to carry money. Companies that issue the checks, such as American Express and Visa, will reissue them if they are lost or stolen. Take with you a small amount of the currency of each country you'll visit.