As we our look at the most expensive urban areas on the planet - the basis of which are results compiled by Swiss bank UBS - rolls on, we must hedge the hullabaloo over the results. Remember, this is not a definitive list by any stretch of the imagination, much like similar reports by firms such as Mercer or publications like Forbes.
The reliance on the U.S. dollar to measure expenses certainly raises legitimate questions about accuracy. In tandem with this quandary is the wrench economic forces such as inflation throws into the entire analysis.
Whatever the case may be, let the debate rage on and in the name of free speech, let us persist in our critical investigation of the results. Here then, in perfect sequence and order, are more World’s Most Expensive Cities.
The capital city of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg - whatever that means - consistently ranks as one of the safest and most secure destinations for visitors. The problem now is the fact that the U.S. dollar is virtually impotent against the Euro. So even if you just pass by on a Euro road trip, the price of gas here will murder your budget.
Find affordable accommodations in beautiful Luxembourg.
The stunner is not that Stockholm made the list but rather, is so low. With a reputation for high alcohol, food and transportation costs, the Swedish metropolis usually cracks the top 10. Oh well, maybe next time Stockholm.
One of the major cultural centers of Europe, with a grand history as a supportive patron of music, art, opera and theater, has become tough to afford. A nice dinner for two with opera tickets will set you back $400. Admission to the Sigmund Freud museum is $10. Analyze that.
The infamous city of legal pot, prostitution and Anne Frank is more and more out of reach for backpackers who want to get high. A decent gram of grass at a coffeeshop in downtown Amsterdam can cost you $15. Throw in coffee and space cake and well, forget the Heineken and Van Gogh museums.
Germany makes a strong push with Munich, by far the most expensive city in the country. Unless you work for Siemens or the Oktoberfest junta, life is tough to afford in this beautiful city. The cost of a pint at the famous beer festival now hovers around the $15 mark, which is absolute murder if you want to get wasted and afford the ambulance ride to the hospital.
Munich hotel deals await your inspection.
While not the most popular tourist destination in Germany - not even close to be frank, Frankfurt is still quite lovely. As the financial capital of Germany, what with the DAX exchange and all, a simple stroll through some of the trendier shops can turn into quite the pricey endeavor. Just be sure to avoid the financial district.
With sheer dominance by Europe thusfar, how nice to see Australia’s major city make the list. The problem in Sydney is real estate, where the overall market has become one of the most expensive in the developed world. While wages have doubled over the last two decades, houses and condos have quadrupled. Food staples are at European levels, if not higher.
Visiting Sydney? Check out these discounted Sydney hotels.
The Second City without much surprise, ranks second to New York within the United States. The last time around however, Chicago did much better - or worse that is. Inflation, a poor economy and currency devaluation are to blame for a drop in rank. Still, Chicago ain’t cheap, especially if eat at Charlie Trotter’s and watch the Cubs play at Wrigley in the same day.
The administrative home of the EU and capital of Belgium is a great place to visit. But the city cannot compete with the likes of Ghent and Antwerp when it comes to affordability. With a much higher median wage, it makes sense that steeper prices follow. Still, we don’t appreciate when mussels and beer costs as much as our hotel room.
The fashion capital of Italy is also the country’s most expensive city. In fact, Rome, Florence and Naples do not even compare. Sure, if you shop at Prada, Versace and Gucci, you may not afford the flight home. But even a simple espresso and semifreddo have become a questionable purchase for some. Want to see the world famous Scala and take in the opera? Decent seats start at $135, unless you still have your university student card and can pass for twenty.
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August 5th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
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